Port Said travel guide

Port Said, Egypt

By the Travel Wiki editorial team

Port Said

Introduction

You will find Port Said situated along the Mediterranean coast in northeast Egypt. This port city sits on the west bank of the northern mouth of the Suez Canal, where you can experience its role as the capital of the Port Said Governorate.

Before you go

Prepare for a cosmopolitan atmosphere where diverse architectural styles reflect a history of multicultural coexistence. You will find the city's character shaped by its role as a global hub and a duty-free port. The climate is characterized by high humidity year-round, with hot, humid summers influenced by sea breezes and mild, slightly wet winters. To enjoy the warmest sea water while avoiding the peak summer crowds, plan your visit during the spring or autumn months.

When navigating the city, keep your belongings secure to avoid pickpockets and ignore persistent street harassment by using firm phrases like "la shukran" or "emshi." As Port Said is a conservative city, you should dress modestly by covering your shoulders, midriff, cleavage, and legs. If you enter a place of worship, ensure your head is covered.

Getting there

You can reach the city by air via El Gamil Airport, which offers a limited selection of domestic flights. Located just outside the city center, the airport serves as a base for Petroleum air services.

Alternatively, you can travel by bus from Cairo or Alexandria, with several companies providing air-conditioned coaches featuring a hostess trolley service. If you choose to drive from Cairo, the journey typically takes around three hours; you may opt for the Desert road, which is less crowded and features cafeterias at regular intervals. For rail travelers, the Port Said railway station on Mustafa Kamal Street serves as a hub with daily trains arriving from both Cairo and Alexandria.

Getting around

Navigating this relatively small and quiet city is straightforward using local transportation options available throughout the area. You can choose from several modes of transport depending on your preference for convenience or speed.

You can travel across the city in white and blue taxis by waving at a driver and calling out your destination; however, you should decline offers to share a ride with other passengers. If you prefer public transit, local buses and "mini-buses" operate along main streets. These smaller 14-person vehicles function on a hop-and-go basis, stopping when you wave and letting you off at your desired location. Because drivers rarely speak English, ensure you know the Arabic name of your destination or exactly where you need to get off.

For a quick trip across the Suez Canal, you can take the ferry to reach the twin city of Port Fouad on the eastern bank. This short journey accommodates both people and cars, providing a scenic way to cross between the two cities.

Where to stay

You can choose from a variety of accommodations that offer proximity to the coast and local landmarks. For a stay near the beach, you can find several options along El Corniche Atef Sadat St, including a prominent landmark hotel or the Grand Albatros Hotel. If you prefer a location directly in front of the Suez Canal with friendly service, the Resta Port Said Hotel is situated on Palestine St.

Other options are available across different streets to suit your preference:

Food & drink

You can enjoy fresh meals at the Italian Restaurant, where dishes are prepared to order. For those seeking pasta or pizza made with quality ingredients, Pizza Pino offers a friendly atmosphere in the El Shark District. If you prefer East Asian cuisine, the East Asian Restaurant provides a selection of Chinese and Korean meals alongside a menu of wines and cocktails.

While nightlife is limited primarily to chicha bars, several other venues offer different atmospheres. You can find a variety of mazza choices and alcoholic drinks at Cub Door, or visit the Tama hotel and bar for an environment characterized by its atmosphere of older patrons and political discussion. Other options include the Resta Bar and the Helnan bar and cabaret.

What to see and do

You can witness the impressive sight of massive container ships and supertankers passing into the Suez Canal at the port, where some ancient facilities still remain. Stroll along the Corniche, a long walkway along the harbor lined with restaurants and markets, or explore the old town to see its history. For a different perspective on the city's past, visit the local bazaar to spend your day browsing through various shops.

Explore these notable landmarks and cultural sites:

When to go

You will find the most favorable conditions for your visit during the spring and autumn months. During these seasons, you can enjoy moderate temperatures and thinner crowds. Spring offers pleasant weather with lower humidity as the sea begins to warm, while early autumn provides a similar experience with manageable temperatures and warmer sea water.

If you travel during the summer, expect hot and humid conditions. This peak season sees many people traveling from Cairo, making the city feel busy and crowded, though the evenings along the Corniche offer some cooling. The winter months are mild but characterized by high humidity and occasional rain, resulting in cool days that are not severe.

Three days in Port Said

Day one, you begin your journey in the heart of Port Said. You can explore the local atmosphere and navigate the streets to experience the unique character of this coastal city.

Day two, you travel toward the waterfront to enjoy the views along El Corniche Atef Sadat. You can spend your time taking in the sights near the Mediterranean as you settle into the local surroundings.

Day three, you explore more of the area, perhaps wandering through Palestine St or Saad Zaghloul St to see the different facets of the city before concluding your stay.

About this place