The Mediterranean coast of Egypt has long been a popular summer destination for locals, while the Red Sea resorts have primarily catered to foreign tourists. However, the northern coastline has been experiencing significant development in recent years, with modern infrastructure and resorts being built. The Borg El Arab International Airport, serving both Alexandria and the entire western coastline, has also contributed to the area’s growth.
As a result of these developments, many tourists and travel agencies are now turning their attention to the Mediterranean coast of Egypt. The increase in the quality of services and accommodations has been particularly noteworthy, attracting premium travelers seeking a luxurious experience. Egipto Exclusivo, for example, offers a portfolio of suppliers that meet the expectations of discerning travelers.
In this article, we’ll provide a brief overview of the attractions that await visitors on the Mediterranean coast of Egypt. This information will help you plan your trip to this remarkable region.
The Mediterranean coast of Egypt spans over 500 km from Alexandria to the Libyan border, with most of it located in the Matrouh Governorate and a smaller section in the Alexandria Governorate.
During the pharaonic period, the coast primarily served as a commercial corridor with the neighboring western lands, due to its less fertile inland terrain in comparison to the Nile Valley.
However, the Ptolemaic dynasty changed this perception when they made Alexandria their capital and promoted closer relations with their northern neighbors in the Mare Nostrum. Despite this, the coast’s role remained somewhat peripheral to ancient civilizations, including the Byzantines and Arabs who followed.
In the mid-twentieth century, the Mediterranean coast of Egypt gained fame for its crucial role in the North African campaigns of World War II. The battles between German and Italian troops against allied forces, mainly British and Egyptian, unfolded in locations such as El Alamein.
And everything indicates that they will continue to do so, as conditions are very favorable for tourism in this area, especially compared to other competitors in the Mediterranean. It is true that the environment of vacation destinations here is more arid than on the European coast of this sea, due to the influence of the Western Desert.
But it is also true that the climate is somewhat warmer and drier here, although not as much as the Red Sea, so the peak summer season is perhaps more pleasant. Winter, on the other hand, can be classified as low season, although even so the climate and temperatures are much milder here than in the European Mediterranean.
The Mediterranean coast of Egypt is currently experiencing significant development, with the Borg El Arab International Airport playing a major role in boosting the area’s growth. Additionally, the construction of modern marinas is attracting more and more tourists to this region, and the increase in the quality of services and accommodations is palpable. If you’re planning a trip to Egypt, the Mediterranean coast should definitely be on your radar.
In the past, the Mediterranean coast of Egypt was mainly a popular holiday destination for local citizens, with Marsa Matruh being a prime example of a place where the population multiplies during the summer months.
However, today the area is undergoing a new phase of development, marked by large public and private investments. The Egyptian government is carrying out extensive urban developments to ease demographic pressure on the Nile Delta, while many private investments have resulted in exciting resorts that cater to international tastes.
Favorable conditions for tourism make the Mediterranean coast of Egypt a highly attractive destination, especially when compared to other competitors in the Mediterranean. While the environment of vacation destinations here is more arid than on the European coast of this sea, due to the influence of the Western Desert.
If you’re planning a trip to the Mediterranean coast of Egypt, there are plenty of vacation destinations to choose from, especially in the area closest to Alexandria and up to approximately Marsa Matruh. However, not all destinations offer the same level of interest, so it’s worth taking note of the following places to see:
Marsa Matruh is a classic holiday destination for Cairo residents and Egyptians in general, and as a result, it offers a wide range of tourist accommodations. However, not all accommodations are of the same quality. If you’re looking for a beautiful bathing area, Cleopatra Beach is one of the most stunning on the Mediterranean coast of Egypt. Marsa Matruh is also the starting point to Siwa Oasis, which is worth a visit. To learn more about Marsa Matruh, check out this page.
El Alamein’s name is linked to the Battle of El Alamein during World War II, which was a crucial turning point in the war. As such, this issue monopolizes the tourist proposals of this place, highlighting the War Museum and the memorials that each military power built in the area (United Kingdom, Germany, and Italy), with moving cemeteries inside. However, in recent years, El Alamein has begun to develop its beaches for tourism, which are also among the best on the Mediterranean coast of Egypt. You can find more information about El Alamein here.
Although Marsa Matruh and El Alamein are two of the most famous places on the Mediterranean coast of Egypt, there are other beaches that are equally popular among local and foreign tourists, although the latter are less familiar with them. Ageeba, located a few kilometers from Marsa Matruh, stands out, as well as other bathing areas in its immediate vicinity. If you’re looking for a personalized proposal for a beach where natural beauty, tranquility, cleanliness, and safety are combined, don’t hesitate to contact us, and we’ll advise you.
As we mentioned before, most rulers, except for the Ptolemies, had limited interest in the Mediterranean coast of Egypt. Therefore, the offer of cultural visits in this area is not the widest in the country. However, a couple of sites are worth visiting:
The Mediterranean coast of Egypt has two international airports, with Borg El Arab being the most modern and largest airport, serving Alexandria and vacation destinations along the coast. Marsa Matruh is another option, with seasonal and charter flights. You can find more information about these airports on the websites of Alexandria and Marsa Matruh.
Trains and buses are other popular modes of transport to reach the coast, especially in high season and for Egyptian users. Overnight train lines are available from Cairo, while buses operate from both Cairo and Alexandria.
For greater comfort and flexibility, private road transport is recommended. There are high-quality driver vehicles of all sizes, which can be configured to your preferences, whether you’re travelling from Cairo or Giza, Alexandria, or any other location. Private transport is also recommended for those who want to access any of the ports along the coast by boat. Contact our agency to manage this aspect.
If you’re interested in exploring the Mediterranean coast of Egypt for a full vacation, to end your tour of the country, or simply for a day excursion from Alexandria or Cairo, our agency can help you plan a tailored trip that suits your needs. Contact us to make the most of your experience. We look forward to hearing from you!
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