Marsa Matrouh is a hidden gem located on the Mediterranean coast of Egypt, known for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. It is a popular summer destination for both locals and tourists seeking a relaxing getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The city has a rich history, dating back to ancient times when it was known as Amunia and served as a trading port. Today, Marsa Matrouh is not only a beach resort town but also a hub for cultural and historical exploration.
In addition to its stunning natural beauty, Marsa Matrouh offers a variety of activities for visitors, from water sports to desert safaris. Whether you are looking for adventure or just want to unwind, Marsa Matrouh has something to offer for everyone.
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Attractions & Things to do in Marsa Matrouh
1. Cleopatra’s Beach
This is one of the most famous beaches in Marsa Matrouh, known for its crystal clear waters and soft white sand. It is said that Cleopatra herself used to swim here.
Travel Tip: Try to visit during the weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds.
2. Rommel’s Cave Museum
This museum is located inside a cave that was used by General Erwin Rommel during World War II as a hideout and command post. The museum contains some of Rommel’s personal belongings and provides a glimpse into the history of the region.
Travel Tip: The museum is small, so it won’t take too much of your time.
3. Agiba Beach
Agiba Beach is a small and secluded beach located about 24 km west of Marsa Matrouh. The beach is surrounded by cliffs and is known for its stunning natural beauty.
Travel Tip: The beach is accessible via a steep path, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues..
4. Marsa Matrouh Beach
This is the main beach in the town of Marsa Matrouh and is known for its calm waters and soft sand. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the sun.
Travel Tip: There are several cafes and restaurants along the beach where you can get food and drinks.
5. Qattaniya Beach
Qattaniya Beach is located about 19 km west of Marsa Matrouh. It is a beautiful and secluded beach that is perfect for those looking for some peace and quiet.
Travel Tip: There are no facilities at the beach, so make sure to bring everything you need with you.
6. Ageebah Beach
Ageebah Beach is another beautiful beach located near Marsa Matrouh. It is known for its clear waters and is a great spot for snorkeling.
Travel Tip: The beach can get crowded during the weekends, so try to visit during the weekdays.
7. Om El Rakham Beach
Om El Rakham Beach is located about 25 km west of Marsa Matrouh. It is a beautiful beach with clear waters and is a great spot for fishing.
Travel Tip: The beach is not very crowded, so it is a great spot for those looking for some peace and quiet.
8. Ruins of the Temple of the Oracle
The ruins of the Temple of the Oracle are located in the Siwa Oasis. It is said that Alexander the Great visited the temple to consult the oracle.
Travel Tip: The temple is located on a hill, so it provides great views of the surrounding area.
Unique Activities in Marsa Matrouh
There are currently no activities. New activities will be planned for the 2024 season.
Day Trips from Marsa Matrouh
1. Alexandria
Alexandria is a bustling Mediterranean city known for its rich history and modern charm. The city is home to the famous Qaitbay Citadel and the Montaza Palace.
Travel Tip: The drive to Alexandria takes around 3-4 hours, so start early to make the most of your day.
2. El Alamein
El Alamein is famous for the pivotal battles that took place there during World War II. The town has several war cemeteries and museums worth visiting.
Travel Tip: The drive is about 2 hours, making it feasible for a day trip. Don’t miss the El Alamein War Museum.
3. Siwa Oasis
Siwa Oasis is a unique desert oasis located about 300 miles from Marsa Matrouh. The oasis is known for its natural springs, ancient ruins, and unique culture.
Travel Tip: Given the distance, consider making it a multi-day trip to fully explore what Siwa has to offer.
Where to stay in Marsa Matrouh
Marsa Matruh, located in Egypt, is a city renowned for its beautiful beaches and serene atmosphere. The city offers a variety of hotels catering to different needs, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly accommodations. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or with family, Marsa Matruh has a hotel that will suit your requirements.
1. Best Reviewed Hotel
Adriatica Hotel Marsa Matrouh (★ ★)
- Description: Offering a restaurant, Adriatica Hotel Marsa Matrouh is located in Marsa Matruh. Free WiFi access is available in public areas.
- Price: €34 per night
- Rating: 9.3 (Superb)
2. Most Luxurious Hotel
Jaz Tamerina, Almaza Bay (★ ★ ★ ★ ★)
- Description: Jaz Tamerina, Almaza Bay has a fitness centre, garden, a terrace and restaurant. This 5-star hotel offers a kids’ club and room service. Guests can make use of a bar.
- Price: €123.76 per night
- Rating: 8.1 (Very good)
3. Budget Hotel
Semiramis Hotel New Royal Palace Marsa Matrouh (★ ★ ★)
- Description: Situated in Marsa Matruh, Semiramis Hotel New Royal Palace Marsa Matrouh offers 3-star accommodation with private balconies.
- Price: €18 per night
- Rating: 6.2 (Pleasant)
4. Hotel for Family
Beau Site Hotel (★ ★ ★)
- Description: Featuring a private sandy beach, Beau Site Hotel Marsa Matrouh is a historical hotel located 10 minutes’ walk from City Centre.
- Price: €76.50 per night
- Rating: 7.6 (Good)
5. Hotel for Couples
Negresco Hotel (★ ★ ★)
- Description: Featuring 3-star accommodation, Negresco Hotel is set in Marsa Matruh, a few steps from Al Awam Beach and 200 metres from Ledo Beach.
- Price: €80 per night
- Rating: 7.6 (Good)
6. Hotel for Solo Travellers
Triumph White Sands (★ ★ ★ ★)
- Description: Triumph White Sands is a 4-star property located in Marsa Matruh, facing the beach. The hotel offers a restaurant, room service, and a 24-hour front desk, along with free WiFi.
- Price: €80 per night
- Rating: 8.3 (Very good)
Did you know? Facts about Marsa Matrouh
- Mersa Matruh is a port in Egypt and the capital of Matrouh Governorate, located 240 km west of Alexandria and 222 km east of Sallum on the main highway from the Nile Delta to the Libyan border.
- In ancient Egypt and during the reign of Alexander the Great, the city was known as Amunia. It was later known as Paraitónion during the Ptolemaic Kingdom and Byzantine Empire, and Paraetonium during the Roman Empire.
- During World War II, Mersa Matruh served as a British military base and was a major objective of Erwin Rommel’s Afrika Korps, which captured it during the Battle of Mersa Matruh.
- The city features soft white sand beaches and calm transparent waters; the bay is protected from the high seas by a series of rocks forming a natural breakwater, with a small opening to allow access for light vessels.
- Mersa Matruh has a dry-summer hot desert climate, but winds blowing from the Mediterranean Sea greatly moderate the temperature, making its summers moderately hot and humid while its winters are mild and moderately wet.
- The city started as a small fishing town during Ancient Egyptian times and was named Amunia. There are ruins of a temple for Ramesses II (1200 BC) in the city.
- The city features several main sights including the ruins of the Temple of the King, Pharaoh Ramesses II, the drowned city of Caesar, the drowned Palace of Cleopatra, and the Egyptian Fleet Anchorage built by the Ptolemies.
- There is a Coptic Chapel in the city built in the early Coptic age, which contains several caves bearing inscriptions.
- Rommel’s Hideout, a cave hewn in the rock where Rommel drew up plans for his military operations, has been turned into a military museum.
- The city has several cemeteries from World War II, including the British Cemetery, the German Cemetery, and the Italian Cemetery.
FAQ about Marsa Matrouh
What is the best time to visit Mersa Matruh?
The best time to visit Mersa Matruh is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and pleasant.
How can I get to Mersa Matruh?
Mersa Matruh is accessible via the main highway from the Nile Delta to the Libyan border. It is also accessible from the south via another highway running through the Western Desert towards Siwa Oasis and Bahariya Oasis.
Are there any historical sites in Mersa Matruh?
Yes, there are several historical sites in Mersa Matruh including the ruins of the Temple of the King, Pharaoh Ramesses II, the drowned city of Caesar, the drowned Palace of Cleopatra, and the Egyptian Fleet Anchorage built by the Ptolemies.
What are the main attractions in Mersa Matruh?
The main attractions in Mersa Matruh include its soft white sand beaches, calm transparent waters, and historical sites such as the ruins of the Temple of the King, Pharaoh Ramesses II, and the drowned city of Caesar.
Is Mersa Matruh safe for tourists?
Yes, Mersa Matruh is generally considered safe for tourists. However, it is always advisable to take necessary precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
What is the climate like in Mersa Matruh?
Mersa Matruh has a dry-summer hot desert climate, but winds blowing from the Mediterranean Sea greatly moderate the temperature, making its summers moderately hot and humid while its winters are mild and moderately wet.
Are there any beaches in Mersa Matruh?
Yes, there are several beaches in Mersa Matruh including Ageebah Beach, Al-Obayed Beach, and Rommel Bay.
What is the significance of Rommel’s Hideout?
Rommel’s Hideout is a cave hewn in the rock where German General Erwin Rommel drew up plans for his military operations during World War II. It has now been turned into a military museum.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mersa_Matruh
https://www.booking.com/city/eg/marsa-matruh.en-gb.html
https://www.getyourguide.com/s/?q=Marsa+Matrouh
