Things to Do in Ismailia: 1-Day Itinerary

When thinking about Egypt, the city of Ismailia definitely doesn’t come first to mind. Cairo and Alexandria are known for their pyramids, mosques, and museums, while Sharm El-Sheikh and Hurghada have spectacular beaches and elegant 5-star resorts.

So, what’s so special about the capital of Ismailia Governorate? Nicknamed “The City of Beauty and Enchantment", Ismailia is known for its beautiful Lake Timsah (Crocodile Lake), picturesque gardens adorned with green orchards, delicious seafood, and popular annual festivals such as the Ismailia International Film Festival for Documentaries and Shorts and the Mango Festival.

Whether you wish to hop on a boat cruise on the lake, feast on fresh seafood and fried fish at one of the many lakefront restaurants, or explore tree-lined streets with colonial architecture, there are plenty of things to do in Ismailia in one day.

To help you plan your trip, we’ve put together this 1-day travel itinerary which includes a list of the best things to do in Ismailia. You will also find tips on where to eat and recommendations for where to stay in the city.

Day 1

Morning: El A'bbasy Mosque

Kick off your morning travel itinerary walk with a visit to one of the oldest mosques in Ismailia Governorate, the square-shaped El A'bbasy Mosque. With its grand entrance decorated with beautiful Islamic motifs and stone columns topped with pointed arches, the mosque looks wonderful. You will find numerous Islamic architectural elements including a wooden ceiling decorated with Islamic arabesques, a wooden pulpit, and a mihrab inside El A'bbasy Mosque. Located on Salah Salem Street in Ismailia, this architectural masterpiece was established by Khedive Abbas Helmy II back in the 19th century after the digging of the Suez Canal.

Almalahaa Park

Fans of the great outdoors will want to spend an hour or two at Almalahaa Park. Also known as the French Gardens, this green space is an ideal destination for leisure activities such as biking, hiking, and preparing picnics. The garden is surrounded by colorful villas and is known for a variety of trees including royal palm, pine, and casuarina trees. If you are visiting with kids, you’ll be pleased to hear that Almalahaa Park boasts a children’s play area with swings and shaded wooden benches.

Suez Canal Museum

Your next stop is one of the newest museums in Ismailia, the charming Suez Canal Museum. Situated inside a beautiful historical building known for its blend of Arab Islamic and European architectural design, the museum is home to 12 halls, as well as external exhibits. Here, you will learn everything there is to know about the history of the Egyptian canal from its excavation until the present time. Go on a guided tour of the museum and explore these 12 exhibition halls adorned with more than 2000 artifacts. As the museum is quite new, they offer free guided tours conducted in 3 languages by local professors. Visitors like the holograms and add how the modern touch screens are amazing.

Catholic Coptic Church

Make your way to Ahmed Orabi Street where you will find one of Ismailia’s most famous tourist attractions, St. Mark’s Cathedral of the Coptic Catholics. Commonly known as the French Church because of its connection with Ferdinand de Lesseps and Pope Francis, it is one of the oldest churches in the governorate dating back to the 1930s. Step inside the Catholic Coptic Church to admire its gorgeous French-Italian basilica design and beautiful paintings. Don’t miss the attached monastery building, the library, and the grand hall which is used for celebrations and other events.

Day 1, morning - ismailia Tour Map

Afternoon: Ismailia Monuments Museum

Your first stop in the afternoon is a museum that showcases artifacts from prehistoric times in Egypt, ancient Egyptian history, Islamic and Coptic times, and Greek and Roman Civilization. Opened in 1932, it is actually one of the country’s oldest museums. The archaeological collection here is impressive and includes nearly 4,000 artifacts ranging from mummies and an exquisitely preserved Roman floor mosaic from the 3rd century B.C. to ancient statues, Coptic coins, pottery, and jewelry. The most famous pieces here are the marble sarcophagus from the Ptolemaic era and the statue of the Sphinx built from granite. Guided tours are available and everything is labeled in English and Arabic. It will take you 2 to 3 hours to visit the Ismailia Monuments Museum.

Al-Golf Social Sporting Club

With many green spaces, the Al-Golf Social Sporting Club is the number one sportive and social club in the Ismailia Governorate. Here, you will find everything from playgrounds for the youngest kids to fields for sports like volleyball, basketball, and football. There is also an outdoor gym and fitness center, as well as a few restaurants and cafes where you can unwind with a drink or grab something to eat.

Al-Golf Public Garden

Attached to the sporting club, Al-Golf Public Garden is a great place to reconnect with nature and enjoy activities like jogging and riding bicycles. In addition to spaces dedicated to sports, the public park is home to lush gardens with tall trees that are more than a hundred years old and a variety of plants. Al-Golf Public Garden also hosts the annual Mango Festival in Ismailia.

Aldunfah Beach Club - Suez Canal Authority

The last place to visit on our afternoon walk in Ismailia is the Aldunfah Beach Club. Situated on the Armed Forces Beach, this beach club on the Suez Canal has a small swimming pool, a few football fields, and padel courts. Although the beach is not suitable for swimming, you can rent an umbrella, watch merchant ships crossing the Suez Canal, grab drinks/food from the on-site beach club café, and enjoy magnificent sunset views. The entrance to the Aldunfah Beach Club will set you back at 70 EGP per person.

Day 1, afternoon - ismailia Tour Map

Other Things to See and Do in Ismailia

• Ismailia Corniche: No visit to Ismailia is complete without going for a stroll along its 2 km-long promenade. Overlooking Lake Timsah, the cornice offers many wooden benches from which you can enjoy views of the lake. There are also a number of restaurants and cafes in the area, as well as green gardens with trees and plants.

• Timsah Lake: You will find one of Egypt’s most beautiful natural lakes right here in Ismailia. Covering approximately 14 kilometers, the picturesque lake is quite large and offers everything from beachfront resorts to restaurants and bars. Travelers can enjoy different water sports such as kayaking, boat tours, and fishing. An interesting fact is that the depth of the lake does not exceed one meter.

• Tanks Museum Abu Atwa: Located on the outskirts of the city in the Ismailia governorate, the Tanks Museum Abu Atwa was established back in the 1970s to pay respect to the soldiers who lost their lives during the October 6, 1973 war. The museum focuses on the tanks which were captured by the Egyptian army. You will have an opportunity to see these 7 tanks, as well as other exhibitions and displays connected to the war.

• Ismailia Sports Stadium: Sports fans visiting the Egyptian city of Ismailia can stop by the Ismailia Sports Stadium. Home to the football club Ismaily SC, the stadium can accommodate up to 30, 000 visitors. It was actually one of the stadiums used in the African Cup of Nations in 2019. Although there are no guided tours of the stadium available, visitors can see this sports complex from the outside or purchase a ticket for a football match.

• Fishing and Water Sports: Thanks to the city’s location on the lake and the Suez Canal, the city of Ismailia is a well-known destination for freshwater fishing in the lake. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of water sports such as boating and windsurfing on Lake Timsah.

Day Trips from Ismailia

• Fayed: This small town located in the Ismailia governorate makes for a great day trip. Known for its Bitter Lake, Fayed is a great place to spend a day on the beach and enjoy water activities like kayaking, boating on the lake, and fishing. You will come across many posh resorts and luxurious villas in the area, as well as an air base that was used by the British Royal Air Base during WW2. Attached to the remains of the air base is a war cemetery.

• Port Said: Go on a day trip to the Egyptian coastal city of Port Said. Known for its art deco architecture, the picturesque Ferial Garden, and a pedestrian-only 8km boardwalk, this vibrant city on the Suez Canal has a lot to offer. Take a photo in front of the base of the former Ferdinand de Lesseps statue, which once stood at the entrance of the canal before being removed in 1956 during the Suez Crisis. Visit the Italian house designed by architect Clemente Busiri Vici, and hop on a ferry to Port Fuad, the sister town of Port Said. The coastal town is also home to many cool beachfront cafés with large terraces and lounging areas. Fans of the military history of Egypt should stop by the Port Said Military Museum to see a few captured US tanks, weapons, and other war trinkets. It will take you 1 hour and 30 minutes to get from Ismailia to Port Said by car.

• Cairo: Located a 2-hour drive from the center of Ismailia, the capital of Egypt is a perfect destination for a day trip. There is so much you can do and see in one day in Cairo, from visiting the world-famous Giza Pyramid complex and shopping for antiques, jewelry, leather goods, and spices at the Khan Al-Khalili Bazaar to spending a few hours in downtown Cairo and exploring its museums and squares. You can also check out the posh residential neighborhood of Zamalek and see its hip cafes, fancy dining establishments, and high-end shops. If you have some time left, don’t miss tourist attractions such as the Abdeen Palace Museum, Bayt al-Suhaymi, the National Military Museum Egypt, and the Hanging Church.

• El Ferdan Railway Bridge: A short drive from Ismailia, the El Ferdan Railway Bridge is a testament to Egypt’s engineering prowess. Once the longest swing bridge in the world, it was designed to allow trains to cross the Suez Canal while still permitting maritime traffic to pass. Although it is no longer operational, the bridge remains an impressive sight, offering a glimpse into the country’s transport history. Visitors can admire its massive steel structure and learn about its role in connecting the Sinai Peninsula with mainland Egypt.0

• Suez Canal Viewing Points: For those fascinated by maritime trade, the Suez Canal Viewing Points offer a unique opportunity to witness one of the world’s most vital waterways in action. From designated viewpoints along the canal, visitors can watch enormous cargo ships and tankers navigate the narrow passage that links the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea. The sight of these massive vessels gliding through the canal, often just meters away, is truly awe-inspiring. A visit here provides a deeper appreciation for the Suez Canal’s significance in global trade and its impact on Egypt’s economy.

• Serapeum of Saqqara: Located near the Step Pyramid of Djoser, around 30 km south of Cairo, the Serapeum of Saqqara is an extraordinary underground necropolis dedicated to the sacred Apis bulls. These bulls, believed to be earthly manifestations of the god Ptah, were embalmed and laid to rest in massive granite sarcophagi, which can still be seen today in the site’s vast network of tunnels and burial chambers. Used from the New Kingdom (18th Dynasty) to the Ptolemaic period, the Serapeum is a testament to the elaborate religious practices of ancient Egypt. Often visited alongside the Teti Pyramid and the Mastabas of nobles, it remains one of Saqqara’s most intriguing and mysterious archaeological sites.

• El Qantara: Located on the eastern bank of the Suez Canal, El Qantara is a historic crossing point linking Egypt’s mainland to the Sinai Peninsula. Its strategic location has made it a site of great military and economic significance throughout history, serving as a key transit hub during ancient trade routes and modern conflicts. Today, visitors can explore remnants of war cemeteries, fortifications, and old railway lines, offering a glimpse into the area's role in pivotal battles, including those of World War I and the Arab-Israeli wars. The town also provides stunning views of the Suez Canal, where massive ships glide through the waterway, showcasing Egypt’s enduring role in global trade.

• Tanis: A journey to Tanis, an ancient city in the Nile Delta, takes visitors deep into the heart of Egypt’s forgotten past. Once the capital of the 21st and 22nd Dynasties, Tanis is an extraordinary archaeological site, often compared to Pompeii due to its wealth of ruins and hidden treasures. Scattered across the landscape are the remains of colossal temples, towering obelisks, and crumbling statues, many of which were repurposed from earlier Pharaonic sites like Pi-Ramesses. The greatest discovery at Tanis was a collection of silver sarcophagi belonging to pharaohs, found in an untouched royal tomb—one of the most significant archaeological finds outside of Tutankhamun’s tomb. While often overlooked, Tanis is a must-visit for those eager to uncover Egypt’s lesser-known ancient wonders.

Things to Do with Kids in Ismailia

• American Dream Ismailia: With dozens of playgrounds and a few dining options, this is hands down the most popular place in Ismailia to take your kids to. American Dream Ismailia is an indoor/outdoor venue packed with different playgrounds for the little ones, from swings and trampolines to cars for toddlers. You will find a few casual eateries on-site that offer everything from pizzas and burgers to salads and sandwiches.

• Donia Cinema: Take your kids to see a movie at this small cinema in the center of Ismailia. Visitors say that the picture quality at Donia Cinema is good, as well as the sound. The cinema plays both foreign and Arab movies.

• Nemra 6 Park: If you wish to take your kids to enjoy nature, go to this beautiful garden in the center of Ismailia. A popular area for cycling and jogging, Nemra offers lovely views of the lake. There are a few benches near the lake, as well as designated areas for BBQ. The main feature of this park is the 100 years old Bengali trees.

Where to Eat in Ismailia

• Hassan Abo Ali For Seafood: If you are a fan of fish and seafood, book a table at this recently renovated restaurant in Ismailia. Hassan Abo Ali For Seafood has more than 9,000 reviews on Google, making it one of the most famous dining establishments in the city. The menu is extensive with a wide range of seafood delicacies including fried shrimp, dennis, squid, charcoal-grilled fish, mussels, and crab. If you wish to try a bit of everything, we suggest getting the fried seafood platter.

• Alfanar Restaurant Seafood: With its blue and white nautical décor and amazing views of the lake, Alfanar Restaurant Seafood is one of the most beautiful restaurants in the city of Ismailia. Alfanar Restaurant Seafood consists of three parts: a café with views of the Timsah Lake, an Italian eatery, and a seafood restaurant. Seafood lovers can try the signature seafood soup and order delicacies such as seafood pasta with white sauce and shrimp. Other seafood dishes include crab, salmon, and fresh small and large fish. The restaurant also offers an open buffet for breakfast.

• Flames Restaurant: Wish to dine in an American-style diner when visiting Ismailia? Visit the Flames Restaurant to enjoy a blend of Latin and American cuisine. Guests love the chic interior and white and black tiles and add that the terrace also looks amazing. The menu is versatile with options ranging from classic meat burgers with potatoes and the nachos sandwich with jalapeno and cheddar cheese to spinach chicken with mashed potatoes. If you are visiting for breakfast, go for the Flames combo (omelet, toast, smoked beef/turkey, and Mexican hotdog).

• Tarek Habib Grilled Food: For delicious grilled meats, make a reservation at Tarek Habib Grilled Food restaurant in Ismailia. Don’t expect too much in terms of décor, but the Greek, Levantine, and Egyptian grilled dishes here are crafted to perfection. Whether you are craving shawarma, wish to try kofta, or want to enjoy kebabs with Italian spices, there is plenty to choose from. We recommend getting the grilled meat platter for two people.

• Lemo's Cafe & Restaurant: Once you step inside this Italian restaurant in Ismailia, you will be greeted by an enormous painting of Marilyn Monroe. In terms of décor, Lemo's Cafe & Restaurant looks great with its hip vibe and modern interior which attracts younger generations. The food menu is extensive with options such as pizza, sandwiches, and tagines. If you opt for pizza, we recommend the pepperoni pizza or the spinach pizza. You can also try their signature lasagna and pasta dishes.

• El-Salah Al-Nabi: Spread across 2 floors in the center of Ismailia, El-Salah Al-Nabi is a popular seafood joint known for its sleek interiors, swift service, and mouthwatering seafood and fish dishes. Their fresh and flavorful fried shrimp are the star of the show. You can also go for the fish fillet, fried calamari, shrimp kofta, and seafood soup. El-Salah Al-Nabi also offers pasta dishes and delicious salads like tahini salad with rice and green salad. The décor is modern and reservations are recommended, especially on the weekends.

• Karem Helmy: For homemade Egyptian food in Ismailia, go to this family-run restaurant that specializes in grilled meats. The restaurant is packed with locals who come here to enjoy the signature kofta! They also offer grilled chicken, sheesh, and a few salad options. We almost forgot to mention that Karem Helmy has one of the best terraces in the city. The restaurant is always packed, so it is best to call at least a day in advance and book a table.

• SAMRA: A cozy restaurant located just a short walk from the Panda Hyper Market in Ismailia, SAMRA focuses on Italian cuisine. Here, hungry patrons come to enjoy grilled meat burgers with generous fillings, pizza, pasta, and other Italian dishes. Their chicken pizza with ranch sauce is fluffy and crispy and the burger sliders with cheese are grilled to perfection.

• Wild Burger: With its modern décor and a picturesque terrace, Wild Burger is a casual eatery that offers an extensive burger menu. The restaurant also offers an open buffet of sauces, potatoes, and salads. Burger options are plentiful with options such as the nachos burger and blue cheeseburger. If you are a fan of tortillas, order their burger tortilla.

Where to Stay in Ismailia

• Mercure Ismailia Forsan Island: This luxurious 4-star beachfront hotel with magnificent views of the Temshah Lake is located on a private island in Ismailia. With its palm-lined gardens, a private beach, an outdoor swimming pool, and well-maintained tennis courts, Mercure Ismailia Forsan Island looks beautiful. Rooms with private balconies boast carpet floors, comfortable French beds, and floor-to-ceiling windows. The hotel also offers a few meeting rooms for business travelers, as well as an on-site restaurant. You will be staying just 1 kilometer from the center of Ismailia.

• TOLIP Elforsan Resort: With more than 300 rooms ranging from standard and deluxe rooms to junior and executive suites, TOLIP Elforsan Resort is one of the largest properties in the Ismailia Governorate. The resort has its own private beach with fine white sands overlooking Temsah Lake, a fitness center where guests can work out, and a spa center fitted with a sauna, steam rooms, a Jacuzzi tub, and a Turkish bath. Guests like the two swimming pools (heated pool and children’s pool) and add that the on-site restaurant offers delicious meals. Travelers staying at TOLIP Elforsan Resort with the children will be pleased to hear that the hotel has its own kids club with educational games.

• Golden Jewel Ismailia: This luxurious hotel facing the canal is one of the newest properties in Ismailia. Guests can stay in one of the 100 rooms, from one and two-bedroom units to large family suites with private balconies and en-suite bathrooms. You can stay in shape at the fitness center, relax with a drink or two at the on-site bar, and try Egyptian and international cuisine at the hotel’s restaurant. There is a beach right in front of the hotel, but like most beaches in the city, it is not suitable for swimming.

• Maison Maxim De Lesseps: This is hands down the most unique property on our list. The main building of Maison Maxim De Lesseps used to serve as the private residence of Ferdinand de Lesseps who was in charge of the creation of the Suez Canal. The property has been renovated and transformed into a boutique hotel known for its vintage French décor. The main building is spread across two floors with nicely decorated rooms and apartments.

Best Time to Visit Ismailia

The best time to visit the Ismailia Governorate and explore its tourist attractions is in spring (March-May) and in fall (September-October). During these seasons, you can expect little rain and comfortable temperatures when visiting tourist sites and festivals. If you are visiting in summer, make sure to pack hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water, as it can get very hot.

Ismailia Festivals

• Ismailia International Film Festival: This is, without a doubt, the most famous annual festival in the city of Ismailia. The prestigious Ismailia International Film Festival for documentaries and short films attracts everyone from cinema lovers to directors, actors, and producers from all over the world. In addition to film screenings, the festival also hosts workshops and debates between the audience and film directors.

• Ismailia International Folk Arts Festival: The annual Ismailia International Folk Arts Festival attracts over 20 dance troupes from countries like India, Jordan, Indonesia, Algeria, and Romania. There are also local dance troupes from different regions in Egypt including Alexandria, Port Said, Aswan, and Cairo. The festival has been around for 20 years and is usually held in October.

• Ismailia Mango Festival: Thanks to its fertile soil and hot weather, the Ismailia Governorate is known as one of the best destinations in the region for growing mangoes. In 2022, the first edition of the city’s Mango Festival took place in Ismailia. Visitors can purchase high-quality mangoes and fair prices, see folk art shows, and other performances. There are also mango-cutting competitions and live music. The festival is held at Ismailia City Golf Club and on Mohamed Ali Street.