Marsa Matrouh
Destination
This Marsa Matrouh travel guide covers the best things to do in Marsa Matrouh: white-sand beaches such as Agiba and Cleopatra’s Bath, and the road to Siwa Oasis. Below you will also find the best time to visit Marsa Matrouh, how to get there and around, and where to stay.
Marsa Matrouh is the capital of Matrouh governorate and lies on the Mediterranean coast roughly 290 km west of Alexandria. It is a summer resort for Egyptian families, known for exceptionally clear turquoise water and sheltered bays, and the main gateway to Siwa Oasis, about 300 km to the south-west across the desert.
History
In antiquity the town was Paraetonium, a harbour on the coastal route between Egypt and Libya. Alexander the Great passed this way in 331 BC on his journey to consult the oracle of Amun at Siwa, and the port remained important in Ptolemaic and Roman times. During the Second World War Matrouh was a fortified base fought over during the Western Desert campaign, and Rommel used a cave here as a headquarters.
What to see and do
- Beaches: the town beach and lagoon, plus a string of bays to the west. Ageeba Beach, around 20 km west, is a small cove beneath limestone cliffs with famously clear water.
- Cleopatra’s Bath: a rock-cut pool by the sea west of town, linked by legend to the queen; waves and rocks make swimming there unwise.
- Rommel Museum: in the cave close to town that served as Rommel’s headquarters, with wartime memorabilia.
- Bedouin produce: the Matrouh area is known for figs, olives and Bedouin hospitality; look for local honey and olive oil.
- Further afield: El Alamein’s war cemeteries and museum and the North Coast resorts lie to the east, and Siwa to the south.
Practical tips
Two or three days suits a beach break; add at least two or three nights if continuing to Siwa. The season peaks in July and August, when hotels fill with Egyptian holidaymakers; many places are quiet or closed in winter. Flights to Matrouh are mostly seasonal, and buses run from Cairo and Alexandria. Taxis and minibuses reach the western beaches.
Last checked October 2026. Sources: en.wikipedia.org, egiptoexclusivo.com, lonelyplanet.com, lonelyplanet.com.
Historical background
Tourist ideas
Complete guide to Marsa Matrouh
About the city, its weather, the best time to visit and how to get there.
About Marsa Matrouh
- Arabic name
- مرسى مطروح
- Governorate
- Matrouh (مطروح)
- Region
- Mediterranean / Western Desert
- Top landmark
- Siwa Oasis
- Destination type
- Seaside
- Travel region
- Alexandria and the North Coast
What is the weather like in Marsa Matrouh?
- Jan
- Apr
- Jul
- Oct
Average daytime highs, °C. Reference: Alexandria and the Mediterranean coast.
When is the best time to visit Marsa Matrouh?
- Best season
- May to October for the beach; spring and autumn for sightseeing
Summer is beach season and the coast is busy; winter brings rain and rough seas.
How do I get to Marsa Matrouh?
- Nearest airport
- Marsa Matrouh (MUH), mostly seasonal flights
Buses run from Cairo and Alexandria; summer flights serve the coast’s airports.
What to see in Marsa Matrouh
- Siwa Oasis
- Ageeba Beach
- El Alamein war cemeteries and museum
- North Coast resorts
Archaeological sites in Matrouh governorate
Museums in Matrouh governorate
Things to do from Marsa Matrouh
Day trips with hotel pickup, run by a local operator. Book directly with them.
Where to eat in Marsa Matrouh
Hamo El Temsah حمو التمساح
Well-known local seafood restaurant serving fresh grilled and fried fish.
Last checked October 2026. Opening hours and menus change; check with the venue before you go.
Shopping in Marsa Matrouh
Libyan Market (Souk Libya) سوق ليبيا
Large covered market selling imported goods, clothing, blankets and household items.
Last checked October 2026. Opening hours and menus change; check with the venue before you go.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Marsa Matrouh?
Buses run from Cairo and Alexandria; summer flights serve the coast’s airports.
What is the nearest airport to Marsa Matrouh?
The nearest airport to Marsa Matrouh is Marsa Matrouh International Airport (MUH), which has mostly seasonal flights.
Where can I eat in Marsa Matrouh?
Popular choices include Hamo El Temsah. See the dining section above for more.
Where can I go shopping in Marsa Matrouh?
Try Libyan Market (Souk Libya). See the shopping section above.
