Things to Do in Port Said: 1-Day Itinerary

Located at the entry point of the Suez Canal in northeast Egypt, Port Said is a beautiful coastal city known for its maritime history, rugged beaches, historic villas, and picturesque gardens. A busy port city of sailors and traders, it used to be a smuggler’s haven back in the 19th century, attracting many people from France, Greece, Italy, and other countries.

Today, remnants of the past can be seen in the city’s deco architecture and multilingual dialect. Go for a leisurely walk along the main Gomhoreya Street or the pedestrian-only Corniche. For Art Deco architecture, visit the Italian House. To snap some seriously awesome photos and reconnect with nature, stop by the adorable Ferial Garden.

Although it might sound cliché, Port Said is actually one of Egypt’s best-hidden gems. Therefore, we’ve decided to put together this 1-day travel itinerary. It includes a list of the best places to visit, as well as tips on where to stay and where to eat.

Day 1

Morning: Ferdinand De Lesseps Statue Base

You are standing in front of the base of a statue that celebrates Ferdinand De Lesseps, a French diplomat who was the engineer of the Suez Canal. Designed by French artist Emmanuel Frimim, this beautiful statue is entirely made of iron and bronze. It stood at the entrance of Port Said’s corniche from 1899 to 1956 when it was removed by the Egyptian army. Today, you can only see the concrete base of the statue.

Al Salam Masjid

The next stop on our morning walk is a majestic Sunni mosque. Established 32 years ago, Al Salam Masjid has a picturesque grand entrance and a large courtyard adorned with a variety of trees and plants. The sprawling garden is a popular spot for numerous events and social gatherings. There is also a large prayer hall for men, as well as a smaller hall for women. The best part of the mosque is the event hall which hosts Islamic funerals and weddings.

Italian House

Fans of art deco architecture will definitely want to visit this controversial building. Constructed in the 1930s during the reign of fascist dictator Benito Mussolini, this former Italian consulate building has an engraved large inscription “Rome once again at the heart of an empire”. The Italian house was converted into a cultural center with a library, theatre, and cinema in the 1960s. Nowadays, there is not much going on inside the building and tourists can admire the beauty of the impressive Art Deco architecture.

The Lighthouse of Port Said

Built in the 19th century to guide ships through the Suez Canal, the Lighthouse of Port Said was designed by French engineer Francois Coignet who decided to use reinforced concrete instead of stone to make this large-scale structure in Port Said. Although the lighthouse is fenced off and often closed for renovation work, you can see it from the outside and snap a photo of this iconic structure with the Suez Canal in the background.

Ferial Garden

Take a break from sightseeing and relax in the most beautiful garden in Port Said. Named after King Farouk’s daughter, Princess Feryal, this recently renovated public garden is famed for its well-maintained greenery, a picturesque red windmill, colorful murals, and a variety of rare trees and plants including Royal Poinciana plants and Bald Cypress and Camphor trees. Most tourists visit the Ferial Garden to take photos and enjoy nature. The garden houses numerous city events throughout the year and has recycling bins, bathrooms, and other basic facilities for visitors.

Day 1, morning - port said Tour Map

Afternoon: Suez Canal Authority Building

An artistic and enormous administrative building with a jaw-dropping façade and majestic sky-blue domes, the Suez Canal Authority Building is one of the most beautiful structures in Port Said. The building was actually built to receive kings, presidents of many countries, and other important figures. Unfortunately, the interiors of the building are closed to tourists, but you can enjoy mesmerizing views of the Suez Canal Authority Building from the ferry into Port Fuad.

Great Saint Bishoy Church in Port Said

Your next stop is much more than your average church. Although there are other churches in the world where holy oil drops from icons of the Virgin Mary, the Great Saint Bishoy Church in Port Said is where holy oil has been dripping for 28 years. Many worshipers believe that this oil is miraculous and helps people get better. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that the church receives thousands of worshipers from all over the world every year.

El Mesala Garden

Nature lovers can spend an hour or two in the afternoon at the El Mesala Garden in Port Said. This lovely public garden is home to many plants, trees, and birds including doves and pigeons. Suitable for families and children, the family park boasts many benches where visitors can relax and reconnect with the great outdoors. You can watch young locals on skateboards, feed doves and pigeons, and take photos in front of the tall palm trees.

Port Said Military Museum

We end our afternoon walk with a visit to a small museum that focuses on the Suez Crisis in 1956, the 1967 and 1973 Egyptian wars with Israel, and the military history of Port Said in general. The Port Said Military Museum offers both indoor and outdoor exhibits. Here, visitors will find all kinds of artifacts, from captured US tanks in the gardens to weapons and other war trinkets at the indoor Suez Canal Hall, the 1956 War Hall, and the October 1973 Hall. We should mention that most exhibits are not self-explanatory, but you can always hire a local guide to show you around and explain everything.

Day 1, afternoon - port said Tour Map

Other Things to See and Do in Port Said

• Port Said Corniche: Running along the waterfront, the pedestrian-only walkway is the historical heart of Port Said. Lined with historical buildings and attractions such as the Simon Arzt department store and Ferdinand De Lesseps Statue Base, Port Said Corniche is a great place to go for a walk. You will also find many local shops and vendor stalls selling food, clothes, and souvenirs.

• Port Said Fish Market: If you wish to purchase freshly caught fish and seafood, visit the city’s main fish market. Here, you will find local fishermen selling everything from red mullet, and shrimp to squid and boulty. The daily catch comes mainly from the Mediterranean and it’s best to arrive early in the morning before the fish/seafood sells out. On your way out, you will notice a few shops and restaurants that can cook/grill your fish and seafood to your liking. These eateries also provide sides like rice, sauces, salads, and fresh bread.

• St. Eugenie's Catholic Church: Dating back to the end of the 19th century, it is the oldest church in Port Said. St. Eugenie's Catholic Church has also been put on the country’s Heritage List for Islamic and Coptic Monuments a few years ago. With its combo of neo-renaissance and neo-classicism architectural styles, the church looks impressive from the outside. Step inside the church to see beautiful marble floors and walls decorated with paintings.

• Ferry to Port Fuad: Hop on a ferry and visit the sister town of Port Said. Taking the ferry across the Suez waters to Port Fuad is definitely the most popular thing for tourists visiting Port Said. During the ferry ride, travelers can enjoy magnificent views of the Suez Canal Authority building. As for Port Fuad, it is a small town known for its beautiful French and Italian architecture. The historic part of Port Fuad is lined with picturesque villas, wide gardens, and the majestic Al Salam Mosque which is known for its tall white minarets.

• Port Said Beaches: This Egyptian coastal town is home to both elegant resorts with sandy beaches to rugged shores full of sea shells. Port Said is not as popular as Egypt’s beach towns like Hurghada and Sharm on the Red Sea and you won’t see hordes of tourists here. If you are staying in the historical center of Port Said, we recommend the beachfront Davinci Cafe & Art Corner where guests can rent sun bend and enjoy tasty foods and drinks.

Day Trips from Port Said

• Ismailia: About an hour's drive from Port Said, Ismailia is nestled on the west bank of the Suez Canal. Go on a day trip to this modern Egyptian city with European-style buildings, picturesque gardens, and lakes. Visit the Ismailia Museum, one of the country’s oldest museums. It contains everything from a Roman floor mosaic and statues to a lovely sculpture garden. Travelers can also stop by the Abbasi Great Mosque and admire the beauty of its central dome, enormous minarets, intricate tile work, and a vast collection of artworks. The nearby Crocodile Lake (Timsah) is ideal for sunbathing on the beach and going on a boat ride.

• Cairo: It will take you about 3 hours by car to get from Port Said to Egypt’s vibrant capital. Situated on the Nile River, Cairo is packed with attractions ranging from museums and art galleries to parks, mosques, and food markets. Visit the upscale residential area called Zamalek and see the majestic Cairo Opera House. You can also spend a few hours at the world-famous Egyptian Museum and shop for food and souvenirs at the Khan al-Khalili bazaar.

• Giza Pyramids: Located just a short drive from downtown Cairo, the city of Giza is home to the world’s most famous pyramids. From the Great Sphinx and the Great Pyramid of Khufu (Cheops) to the Queens' Pyramids and the Pyramid of Menkaure, these unique man-made structures with underground tombs should be included on everyone’s travel itinerary. Giza City itself is also an interesting place to visit with popular attractions like the Agricultural Museum, Orman Garden, and the Pharaonic Village.

• El Qantara, meaning "The Bridge" in Arabic, is a historic town straddling both sides of the Suez Canal, just south of Port Said. A vital crossing point for centuries, it has played a strategic role in trade and military history, particularly during the wars of the 20th century. Today, visitors can watch massive ships glide through the canal, explore lively local markets, and experience the unique blend of lush farmland and desert landscapes that characterise the area. 

• Tanis: Once the capital of Egypt during the 21st and 22nd Dynasties, Tanis is an archaeological treasure trove buried under the sands of the Nile Delta. Located about 150 km southeast of Port Said, this ancient city was a centre of power in the Late Period and is often compared to Luxor due to its wealth of temples, obelisks, and statues. Many of the golden treasures found in Tanis—including exquisite jewellery and royal burial masks—are now displayed in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. 

• Damietta: A vibrant port city at the meeting point of the Nile and the Mediterranean, Damietta is known for its historic mosques, bustling souks, and scenic riverside views. Located 70 km west of Port Said, the city is famous for its fine furniture craftsmanship, with workshops producing some of the best woodwork in Egypt. Visitors can explore Al-Maainy Mosque, stroll along the Corniche, or sample fresh seafood at local restaurants. The city is also a key hub for the production of dates and dairy products.

• Ras El Bar: Just 15 km from Damietta, Ras El Bar is a beloved coastal retreat where the Nile River meets the Mediterranean Sea. This unique geographical point, called "Al Lesan" (The Tongue), offers stunning views of the river merging with the sea, making it a must-visit for photographers and nature lovers. Ras El Bar has long been a summer destination for Egyptian families, thanks to its golden beaches, fresh sea breeze, and laid-back atmosphere. Unlike the Red Sea resorts, it retains a traditional charm, with colourful villas, open-air markets, and seafood restaurants serving the day’s freshest catch.

Things to Do with Kids in Port Said

• Try Cassata Ice Cream: Your kids will fall in love with this multi-flavor ice cream. By far the most famous sweet treat in Port Said, Cassata is native to Sicily (Italy). The sweet dessert which combines nuts and cream was brought to Port Said by the Italian community. The city’s most beloved juice shop and bakery, Salsabila is definitely the best place to try Cassata.

• El-Noras Grand Mall: A popular destination for families with children, El-Noras Grand Mall boasts a play center for kids and local and international boutiques where visitors can purchase jewelry, kid’s clothes, shoes, souvenirs, and much more. The shopping mall also has a sports club, as well as a bowling alley.

• Sun Mall: If you are searching for a spot with plenty of activities for kids, go to the Sun Mall in Port Said. Here, you will find baby supply stores, shops that sell children’s clothes and shoes, and a lovely indoor playground packed with entertainment games. The Sun Mall also has a cinema, as well as a few restaurants and cafes.

• Doaiah Beach & Kite Club: Take your children to this iconic beachfront café and club in Port Said. Guests love the nomadic vibes and say how you can either rent a beach chair or order something from the club’s menu and get the chair for free. The café is adjacent to a kite club, while the beach itself looks lovely.

Where to Eat in Port Said

• El Borg Restaurants For Sea Food: Located on the Port Said Corniche, this popular restaurant overlooks the beach and specializes in fresh fish and seafood. Start with a bowl of seafood or caviar tajen. For the main dish, we recommend cooked mussels or shrimp. El Borg Restaurants For Sea Food also offers salads and desserts, as well as their signature mint lemon juice.

• El Kastan Fish Restaurant: This seafood restaurant is located just a stone’s throw from El Borg. The menu is extensive with favorites such as butterfly shrimp, fried calamari, and crispy lobster. If you prefer fish, try the grilled salmon with vegetables or the fried red mullet. El Kastan Fish Restaurant has a nice soup menu with options like caviar soup, boneless seafood soup, and special kastan soup.

• Portofish: With traditional Egyptian décor, swift service, and fresh fish and seafood on display, Portofish is a popular restaurant that mostly focuses on Egyptian national dishes and fresh seafood/fish. The food menu includes everything from appetizers and pasta and rice dishes to salads, seafood, and catch-of-the-day fish. If you like fish, try their mullet with sauce, sea bass, or grouper. Seafood options include grilled crab, lobster, shrimp, mussels, and stuffed calamari.

• Pizza Pino: If you are craving pizza while staying in Port Said, stop by for breakfast, lunch, or dinner at Pizza Pino. Located on Gomhoreya Street, this pizza joint offers an extensive menu with soups, salads, pizza, pasta, grilled meat, and fish dishes. Their signature smoked salmon pizza is the star of the show. Other popular dishes include seafood pizza, pasta carbonara, lentil soup, seafood pasta, and pho lasagna. The décor is simple with red and white tablecloths and wooden chairs. The restaurant has a nice terrace.

• Abdou Kofta: With red velvet sofas and lovely lamps, Abdou Kofta is one of the most beautiful restaurants in this coastal town on the Suez Canal. The menu consists of traditional Egyptian dishes native to the region. Most people order the signature grilled kofta which is amazing. There is also the tasty cream soup, as well as popular meat dishes like meat chops with parsley and carrots, grilled kebabs, and chicken liver. The restaurant also has a children’s menu and offers cocktails and plenty of fresh juice drinks. We recommend booking a table, especially on the weekends.

• Ibn Hamido Seafood Restaurant: Spread across 2 floors, this restaurant is all about reasonably priced traditional Egyptian food which comes in huge portions. The theme of the restaurant is based on the Ibn Hamidu movie from the 1950s. Some of the dishes are even named after the characters of the action/comedy movie directed by Fatin Abdulwahhab. So, what’s on the menu? Try the Egyptian feskh, seafood casserole, or Molokai with shrimp soup. If you like fish, we recommend the grilled mullet or the fried sea bass.

• Central Perk Café: Fans of the popular Friends TV series can drop by the Central Perk Café in Port Said. With Friends decorations on the walls and a TV in the corner constantly playing episodes of the series, this café/restaurant is a great place to enjoy a good cup of coffee and tasty foods. They have everything from burgers and sandwiches to pasta dishes and desserts. Order the cordon bleu sandwich or go for the mushroom belt burger. The selection of desserts is spectacular with options such as cheesecake and waffles. We almost forgot to mention the restaurant’s brilliant motto which you can see on the wall: “Joey doesn’t share food, but we do”.

• Moodz Burger: This is one of the few burger eateries in Port Said. Stop by Moodz Burger to try their signature sandwiches and burgers. The restaurant also offers a few salads and desserts. The lamb burger with lettuce and tomatoes is very popular, as well as the turkey rolls with mozzarella cheese. You can also go for the Philly’s steak or the cheese bacon toast.

Where to Stay in Port Said

• Resta Port Said Hotel: Overlooking the entrance of the Suez Canal, the Resta Port Said Hotel offers cozy rooms with private bathrooms and views of the canal. Guests can swim in the outdoor pool, enjoy views of the passing ships, and sample both Italian and Egyptian cuisine at the on-site restaurant. For a refreshing drink or two, go to the pool bar.

• Marom Port Said Resort & Beach: This seafront hotel in the center of Port Said is home to the largest artificial lagoon in the area. Located just a short walk from the entrance to the Suez Canal, the Marom Port Said Resort & Beach offers nicely decorated suites and studios, a shared lounge, and an on-site restaurant. The main attraction at the resort is the large swimmable lagoon with bean bags and comfy sofas. You can also swim in the heated pool. Guest staying at the Marom Port Said Resort & Beach with kids will be glad you hear there is a children’s playground and a large garden.

• Grand Hotel Port Said: Situated inside an 11-story building, this 4-star hotel is located just a short walk from the waterfront and a 5-minute drive from the railway station. We love the Grand Hotel’s lavish lobby with marble floors, traditional Egyptian furniture, and beautiful chandeliers. Each morning, guests can enjoy freshly cooked eggs, pastries, and both halal and gluten-free options at the hotel’s restaurant. For lunch and dinner, the restaurant offers everything from pizza and fish and chips to fresh seafood.

• Porto Said Resort & Spa: This beachfront family-friendly resort is located just outside the city center. The good news is that the Porto Said Resort & Spa offers a free shuttle to the downtown area. There is no shortage of facilities here, from meeting rooms for guests on business trips to an outdoor swimming pool and a kid’s club for travelers on vacation in Port Said. The resort has a lovely restaurant and a fitness center in case you wish to work out.

The Best Time to Visit Port Said

The summer season in Port Said can be quite hot with temperatures around 35°C. Sightseeing in this intense heat can be an unpleasant experience for travelers. Winters in Port Said are mild compared to tourist destinations in Western Europe. However, at night, the temperature can drop as low as 10°C. If you are thinking about visiting Port Said in winter, make sure to pack warm clothes. We think that the best time to visit this coastal city is in spring, from March to May. Another good option is to book your vacation in Port Said in autumn, from September to early November. During these months, the weather is just perfect, making it easy to explore the city.

Port Said Festivals

• Port Said International Film Festival: This is one of the newest festivals in the city. If you are a fan of cinema, don’t miss the Port Said International Film Festival. The festival is held in December and features exclusive screenings of local and international films, as well as workshops and master classes led by seasoned experts.