This Suez travel guide covers the best things to do in Suez: the southern entrance of the Suez Canal, ship watching and the road to Ain Sokhna. Below you will also find the best time to visit Suez, how to get there and around, and where to stay.
Suez is the capital of Suez governorate and stands at the southern entrance to the Suez Canal, at the head of the Gulf of Suez. It is a port and industrial city with oil refineries and shipyards, and the best place in Egypt to watch the world’s merchant fleet entering and leaving the canal.
History
The modern city succeeds the ancient port of Clysma, known in Arabic as al-Qulzum, which for centuries linked Egypt with Red Sea trade and the pilgrimage to Mecca. It grew quickly after the canal opened in 1869, when the harbour district of Port Tawfiq and new port facilities were built. Suez was badly damaged during the conflicts of 1967 to 1973, and its residents’ resistance in October 1973 is commemorated each year on 24 October, Suez National Day.
What to see and do
- Port Tawfiq: the promenade at the canal mouth is the place to watch container ships and tankers glide past, especially in the morning when the southbound and northbound convoys move.
- Suez National Museum: replacing a museum lost in the 1967 war, it tells the city’s story from pharaonic trade expeditions and the ancient canals to the pilgrimage route and the modern canal. It opened on a trial basis in 2012 and fully in 2014; see the official page.
- Ahmed Hamdi Tunnel: the road tunnel north of the city carries traffic under the canal into Sinai.
- Seafood: Suez is known for its fish restaurants, where you choose your fish and have it grilled or fried.
- Ain Sokhna: the resort coast to the south is within easy reach for a beach day.
Practical tips
Suez is an easy day trip from Cairo by bus or car, and pairs well with a night at Ain Sokhna. A few hours is enough for the museum and Port Tawfiq. Taxis are cheap and the easiest way around. Avoid photographing port facilities, military sites and canal security areas, and carry your passport, especially if crossing into Sinai.
Last checked October 2026. Sources: en.wikipedia.org, egymonuments.gov.eg, english.ahram.org.eg, books.openedition.org.
Historical background
Tourist ideas
Complete guide to Suez
About the city, its weather, the best time to visit and how to get there.
About Suez
- Arabic name
- السويس
- Governorate
- Suez (السويس)
- Region
- Suez Canal
- Top landmark
- Suez Canal southern entrance
- Destination type
- Inland
- Travel region
- The Nile Delta and Suez Canal
What is the weather like in Suez?
- Jan
- Apr
- Jul
- Oct
Average daytime highs, °C. Reference: Cairo and Giza.
When is the best time to visit Suez?
- Best season
- October to April
How do I get to Suez?
- Nearest airport
- Cairo (CAI), about 130 km
Trains and intercity buses run from Cairo; the drive takes two to three hours.
What to see in Suez
- Suez Canal southern entrance
- Ain Sokhna resorts (nearby)
Things to do from Suez
Day trips with hotel pickup, run by a local operator. Book directly with them.
Where to eat in Suez
Seaside Restaurant مطعم سي سايد
Corniche restaurant for seafood, grilled kebab and ribs with sea views.
Koshary Palace قصر الكشري
Popular koshari house in the city centre.
Alf Leila ألف ليلة
Fish restaurant at Port Tawfiq, near where ships enter the Suez Canal.
El Khalifa الخليفة
Local fish restaurant on the city's main dining street.
Last checked October 2026. Opening hours and menus change; check with the venue before you go.
Shopping in Suez
El Ansari Market سوق الأنصاري
The city's central market and largest open-air fish market in the governorate, a lively look at local life.
El Arbaeen Markets أسواق الأربعين
Main traditional shopping area for fruit, vegetables, clothing and household goods.
Last checked October 2026. Opening hours and menus change; check with the venue before you go.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Suez?
Trains and intercity buses run from Cairo; the drive takes two to three hours.
What is the nearest airport to Suez?
The nearest airport to Suez is Cairo International Airport (CAI), about 130 km away.
Where can I eat in Suez?
Popular choices include Seaside Restaurant, Koshary Palace, Alf Leila, El Khalifa. See the dining section above for more.
Where can I go shopping in Suez?
Try El Ansari Market, El Arbaeen Markets. See the shopping section above.
