Marsa Matruh

The picturesque resort of Marsa Matruh, located on the Mediterranean coast of Egypt, is often referred to as the "Egyptian Maldives" for its incredible water colour and snow-white sand. You can reach this secluded destination in various ways, choosing between the speed of air travel and the romance of an overland journey.

The city boasts a developed transport infrastructure, allowing tourists to arrive comfortably by plane, train, bus, or private car. This destination is ideal for those seeking quiet relaxation away from the noise of megacities, without sacrificing logistical convenience.

Marsa Matruh International Airport (MUH) is located just a few kilometres from the city centre and receives seasonal charter flights, as well as regular flights from the capital during the summer period. This is the quickest method to reach the resort, allowing you to save time and immediately immerse yourself in the holiday atmosphere.

If there are no direct flights on your desired dates, travellers often use airports in neighbouring major cities, such as Alexandria or Cairo, from where the journey can be continued by land. Additionally, the city of El Dabaa, located further east along the highway, is sometimes considered as an alternative landmark on the coast.

Unlike many other resorts, Marsa Matruh has a direct railway connection to the Nile Valley. In the summer season, trains run from Cairo, offering tourists a budget-friendly and atmospheric way to reach the coast while watching the changing landscapes through the window.

The railway station is located within the city limits, which facilitates further transport to your hotel. It is recommended to purchase train tickets in advance, especially for sleeper cars or first class, as this route is highly popular among local residents during the holiday season.

Bus travel is one of the most accessible options for travelling to Marsa Matruh from the main tourist centres of Egypt. Comfortable coaches depart regularly from Cairo (travel time is about 5–6 hours) and Alexandria (about 4 hours), arriving at the bus station in the centre of the resort.

Modern buses are usually equipped with air conditioning, making the long journey quite pleasant even in the heat. This is an excellent choice for those who wish to save on their budget without losing out on comfort, and are ready to enjoy views of the desert and sea along the way.

Travelling by car offers the freedom to plan your route and the opportunity to stop at scenic spots along the northern coast. The road features good quality surfacing; for example, the journey from the city of El Dabaa is about 128 km and takes approximately 1 hour 40 minutes.

Many tourists prefer to book a taxi or a private transfer from their arrival airports. The highway runs along the Mediterranean coastline, turning a standard transfer to Marsa Matruh into a genuine excursion with beautiful views.

To ensure your holiday in Marsa Matruh is flawless, it is worth considering the local cultural nuances and the climate of this region. Here are a few practical recommendations for planning your trip:

1. Clothing and Dress Code. The city is quite conservative. For walking the streets, choose modest attire that covers shoulders and knees; revealing swimwear is appropriate only on hotel beaches.
2. Transport. To get around the city, it is convenient to use taxis or tuk-tuks. Be sure to agree on the price of the trip before boarding, as meters are rarely used.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Egyptian Pound. Cards are accepted in major hotels, but for markets and cafes, make sure to carry cash, preferably in small denominations.
4. Seasonality. The swimming season here is shorter than on the Red Sea: the best time is from June to September. Evenings can be fresh even in summer, so a light jacket is useful.
5. Communication. Knowing a few phrases in Arabic will greatly simplify communication, as English is not spoken everywhere. Locals deeply appreciate respect for their language.
6. Safety and Health. Use sunscreen with a high SPF—the sun here is deceptively mild due to the wind. Drink only bottled water.
7. Local Etiquette. Avoid public displays of affection on the streets. Also, do not photograph local residents, especially women, without their explicit permission.
8. Shopping. Be sure to visit the Libyan Market. Here you can buy excellent dates, olive oil, and spices at prices lower than in other regions of Egypt.

Observing these simple rules will help you feel confident and enjoy the hospitality of this unique Mediterranean resort.