Things To Do
in Suez
Suez is a port city on the Gulf of Suez at the southern end of the Suez Canal, where maritime traffic and desert landscapes converge. The city blends industrial port life with waterfront promenades, markets, and nearby desert adventures. Its strategic location makes it a gateway for access to the Sinai Peninsula and the Red Sea coast.
Visitors can explore the Corniche, sample seafood, and venture to nearby Ain Sokhna for nature escapes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the Suez Canal Museum, where you can delve into the rich history and engineering marvel of the canal. Wander through exhibits showcasing artifacts, photographs, and detailed models that illustrate the canal's construction and global significance. The morning light enhances the view of the waterway visible from the museum windows, offering a perfect photo opportunity.
Head to the Suez waterfront promenade for a leisurely walk along the canal's edge. Enjoy a traditional Egyptian lunch at a nearby seafood restaurant, savoring freshly caught fish and local spices. Afterwards, take a boat tour along the canal to witness massive cargo ships passing by and learn about the canal’s operation from the guide.
As sunset approaches, find a cozy café overlooking the canal to relax and enjoy a cup of mint tea. The evening breeze carries the sounds of the bustling port and distant ship horns, creating a unique ambiance. End your day with a gentle stroll along the illuminated waterfront, appreciating the blend of history and modern commerce.
Start your morning exploring Suez’s Old City, where narrow alleys and traditional architecture paint a picture of the city’s past. Visit local mosques and historic buildings that reflect the cultural heritage of the region. Engage with friendly vendors and artisans as you wander through the vibrant streets filled with the aroma of spices and freshly baked bread.
Spend your afternoon at the central souk, browsing colorful stalls teeming with textiles, handmade crafts, and aromatic spices. Taste street food specialties such as falafel and koshary from small vendors, immersing yourself in authentic local flavors. Capture the lively atmosphere as merchants call out and customers haggle in good spirits.
As daylight fades, find a rooftop restaurant overlooking the bustling market area to enjoy dinner with panoramic views. The city lights flicker on, casting a warm glow over the ancient streets below. Experience the local nightlife by listening to traditional music and mingling with residents at nearby tea houses.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 🛺5-10 minute taxi ride | $1-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-2 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two | $15-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strategic canal-side location with easy access to Cairo, Sinai, and the Red Sea coast
- Affordable cost of living and abundant seafood options
- Relaxed, family-friendly waterfront atmosphere
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure compared to bigger cities
- Desert heat in summer can be intense
- Some areas can be crowded and congested around ports and markets
- "السلام عليكم" - Hello / Peace be upon you
- "من فضلك، أين الحمام؟" - Please, where is the bathroom?
- "كم السعر؟" - How much is this?
- "شكراً" - Thank you
- "هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟" - Do you speak English?
- "أين محطة القطار؟" - Where is the train station?
Places to Visit in Suez
Visit one of these nice places.
A busy, scenic stretch along the gulf with ships passing through the canal and dramatic sunrises.
Colorful façades and traditional doors lining the canal-side streets, ideal for street photography.
Open horizons and golden light over the water; best during golden hour.
Food in Suez
Suez Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fish and rice dish with caramelized onions and spice, popular along the coast.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught fish grilled with lemon, olive oil, and herbs; best near the waterfront.
Green leaf soup served with rice or bread; a staple across Egypt.
Classic fava bean dish served with olive oil, lemon, and bread.
Crispy patties made from fava beans, often served in sandwiches or with dips.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market offering fresh produce, spices, herbs, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Casual stalls along the waterfront serving grilled fish, calamari, and seafood platters.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Salam' or handshake; dress modestly, especially in markets and religious sites.
Ask permission before taking photos of people, especially in homes or traditional areas.
Safety
Tipping in Suez
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, round up the bill or leave 5-10% if service isn’t included. Taxis and drivers appreciate small change or a few Egyptian pounds.
Cash is widely accepted; credit cards are common in larger establishments; ATMs are available in major areas; small shops may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days and cooler nights; bring a light jacket; good for canal views and market strolls.
Warm days with comfortable temperatures; ideal for outdoor walks and coastal hikes.
Very hot and dry; carry water, seek shade, and schedule outdoor activities for early mornings or late evenings.
Warm-to-hot days with cooler evenings; sea breezes provide relief near the water.
Suez at Night
Hiking in Suez
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal desert hikes with sea views and moderate terrain, accessible from Ain Sokhna.
Desert routes with limestone formations and scenic overlooks; best with a guide.
Evening hikes offering panoramic gulf views and dramatic sunsets; cooler during fall and winter.
Airports
How to reach Suez by plane.
Major international hub about 125-150 miles (200-240 km) from Suez; accessible by highway, train, or bus.
Smaller domestic airport serving the Port Said region; useful for domestic travel, roughly an hour or two from Suez by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Egyptian Arabs of various backgrounds, with a working-class and port-city population.
A significant portion of the population employed by the Suez Canal and related industries.
A mix of long-term residents, labor migrants, and some expatriates in business or expatriate-friendly services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, played in clubs, schools, and informal games along the coast.
Snorkeling, swimming, and boating are common along the Gulf of Suez and Ain Sokhna beaches.
Coastal and canal-side fishing is a traditional pastime and local food source.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Suez.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy beans, lentils, falafel, vegetables, and salads; ask for oil-free preparations and request bread or rice with meals; most soups and mezze can be made vegetarian.