Marsa Matruh – Travel Guide
Marsa Matruh, a stunning Mediterranean resort town in Egypt, is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft white-sand beaches. Famous spots like Agiba Beach and Cleopatra`s Bath offer breathtaking coastal views and unique historical charm. The town provides a peaceful escape with a relaxed atmosphere, fresh seafood, and scenic seaside promenades. With its natural beauty and rich history, Marsa Matruh is a perfect summer retreat.
All about Marsa Matruh
Getting around Marsa Matruh
By Walking
Many attractions, especially near the beaches, are withing walking distance. The Corniche ara and main beaches such as Agiba and Gharam are easily accessible on foot if you’re staying at a hotel nearby.
By Bicycle
Bicycles are a great way to explore Marsa Matruh and its surroundings, and gear-less models can be rented for around 10LE per day (about 5LE half day). Before accepting a bike, however, check that it is sturdy, that the brakes are functioning well and that the handlebars are not cracked or bent.
Some hotels offer bicycles or scooters as well.
By Taxis
Taxis are a common way to get around the city. It’s always advisable to agree on a fare before starting your journey, as the taxis do not use meters.
By Car
Renting a car is a convenient option if you plan to explore areas outside the city, such as the North Coast resorts or historical sites like Cleopatra’s Bath.
Marsa Matruh FAQ
Where is Marsa Matruh located?
Marsa Matruh, or Matruh for short, is a city in the Matrouh Governorate of Egypt’s western coast. Located west of Alexandria and the Nile Delta. The region is steeped in history, whose mention dates back to Ptolemaic times and beyond.
What is the best way to get to Marsa Matruh?
By Air: Direct flights to Marsa Matruh International Airport welcome direct flights from major Egyptian cities such as Cairo, Alexandria, and Hurghada.
By Train: Several trains depart from Cairo and Alexandria daily, reaching Mersa Matruh in around 5 hours. This affordable option offers comfortable seating and scenic views of the Egyptian countryside.
By Bus: There are several public and private bus companies that operate regular services between Cairo, Alexandria, and Mersa Matruh. Travel times range from 5-7 hours, depending on the route and company.
Once you reach Marsa Matruh, taxis and shared shuttle connections from the airport, train station, and bus terminal to the city center hotels are readily available. Negotiate fares beforehand for a transparent and hassle-free experience.
What is Marsa Matruh known for?
Matruh is a small Egyptian city on the Mediterranean Sea’s northwest coast known for its long white Caribbean-like sandy beaches, turquoise bays, stunning lagoon pools alternated with rock coastlines that shelter the beaches from sea erosion, and old-world charm. It’s a popular summer getaway destination for Egyptians and tourists alike, and has been drawing people to its shores for centuries.
When is the best time to visit? What is the weather like?
The best time to visit is from May to October when the climate is ideal for beach activities and outdoor adventures. The climate can be defined as Mediterranean, that’s warmer than the European side of the sea, even though the winter is particularly mild and the rains are scarce. However, winters are cooler compared to the Red Sea coast, which doesn’t attract as much foreign tourism interested in sun and beach during the cold season in Europe.
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How do I get around the city?
Taxis are the most convenient option and can easily be found at attractions around town. You will need to negotiate the fare with the drive.
Another option is to rent a car, although there aren’t many rental offices in the area. If you opt for this choice, you may need to pick up and return the car at other locations such as the Borg El Arab airport.
Alternatively, you can book a vehicle with a driver, which will save you the trouble of bargaining with taxis and the stress of driving through the busy streets of downtown Marsa Matruh.
Renting a bicycle is also possible. You can usually find them through street vendors in the city. However, cycling through the busy streets of downtown can be a challenge, but it can be useful for short trips along the Corniche. Before accepting a bike, however, check that it is sturdy, that the brakes are functioning well and that the handle bars are not cracked or bent.
Can I pay/tip in US dollars?
The official currency is the Egyptian Pounds.
I don`t speak Arabic. Will many people speak English?
The official language is Arabi, however, the many people in tourism speak some English. We suggest you get a good English-Arabic guidebook or app on your phone and familiarize yourself with common phrases such as hello, goodbye, excuse me and numbers 1-10.
Is Marsa Matruh safe to travel to?
Yes, as a very conservative and traditional town, Marsa Matruh is safe. There is little to no risk of theft or physical violence as long as travelers respect the local culture and behave according to expected norms, which in Marsa Matruh includes not communicating with local women as doing so is considered a rude and hostile act. Safety conditions in the beach, city, and hotels are typically excellent, with a high presence of security personnel in tourist areas Stay within the city’s main areas, and you will likely never face any issues.
Also note, that women are not allowed to wear clothes that reveal shoulders, breasts or legs. Do not display affection in public as it is prohibited. Alcohol cannot be consumed in public, and all male travelers should avoid contact with local women.
What should I pack to wear?
Plan for the local climate and cultural norms. Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal for the hot desert climate. But, also pack a light jacket for surprisingly cool nights. Remember, while it’s a beach city, respecting the local customs and traditions remains crucial. Modest clothing is recommended when exploring areas outside the beach.
What should I do if I need medical assistance or need to go to the hospital?
Emergency number: 123
Marsa Matruh General Hospital: This is the main hospital in the city, providing a range of medical services. It’s located near the city center.
Mersa Matruh Central Hospital: Another option offering general medical services, including emergency care.
Top Attractions
Libya Market
Considered one of the good markets and it is distinguished by selling olive products such as olive oil and olives of many types.
Salt Cave Salman
Is the largest man-made salt cave in the world and is considered a place for therapeutic tourism in Matrouh.
Rommel Beach
Right at the tip of Marsa Matruh`s eastern peninsula, this quiet but rocky piece of shore is good for swimming.
Rommel`s Cave Museum
Is a museum dedicated to the memory of German field marshal Erwin Rommel.
Unique Experiences
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Private Siwa Oasis Day tour from Marsa Matruh: Siwa Oasis is one of the Sahara Desert`s most captivating gems, which is home to a collection of thermal springs and salt lakes where you can float on the water. This private tour from El Alamein/Masra Matruh offers the chance to discover the area’s top attractions.
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What to expect while traveling
