New El-Alamein City: attractions, tours and tickets

New El-Alamein is a place where the heritage of military history and the shine of modern development meet to create a sleek and welcoming city. Set on Egypt’s north Mediterranean coast, it boasts clean, family-friendly beaches, luxury hotels and international shopping malls. Top facilities like these earned New El-Alamein the title of ‘Capital of Arab Resorts for 2025’ from the Arab Tourism Organisation. You’ll find a glossy new city, showcasing the future of Egypt, with smart and sustainable buildings and all your creature comforts. Yet, it’s a place that will always remember it’s past. The old town of El-Alamein lies around 20 kilometres away and was the site of a pivotal battle in World War II, where British Allies halted the advance of Axis troops. Visiting the war cemeteries here gives you a great opportunity to balance the history and future of this part of Egypt.

Top six things to do in New El-Alamein City

1. Stroll the waterfront promenade

While there are plenty of panoramas to enjoy from the towering skyscrapers in the city, the best views can be found on a walk along the 14-kilometre waterfront promenade that stretches along the Mediterranean coast. You can cycle, walk, or relax by the sea here, or even dip into the turquoise waters for a spot of paddle-boarding, snorkelling or jet-skiing.

2. Haggle in the markets of the Old Town

The small, traditional market stalls of the Old Town are a joy to rummage around. There’s a more authentic and down-to-earth vibe here compared to the air-conditioned malls of the new city. It’s like an Aladin’s cave, piled high with lanterns, ceramics, spices and handmade textiles. Plus, you can pop into the cafes and bakeries for a local flavour of Egypt.

3. Visit the Archaeological Museum of Mersa Matruh

Take an easy daytrip from El-Alamein to the Archaeological Museum of Mersa Matruh. It’s housed within the Misr Public Library and offers a deeper insight into the region’s military, trade and spiritual history. You’ll find over a thousand ancient artefacts with a focus on the time of the Egyptian pharaohs – from up to 5,000 years ago.

4. Take a quad bike into the desert

It’s easy to get out into the desert from El-Alamein, where you can kick up the dust on a quad bike. Take advantage of the changing landscapes of the desert as you zip over the sand dunes, rumble through canyons and take in the dual horizons of vast desert sands and the Mediterranean Sea.

5. Learn about the past

A visit to the Military Museum and War Cemeteries will shed light on the important role this land took in World War II. The museum has open-air displays of tanks and artillery as well as halls dedicated to each nation that took part. The cemeteries are nearby and commemorate the thousands of soldiers who lost their lives.

6. Swim at Siwa’s salt lakes

On a full day out, you can head to the four vast bodies of water that make up the Siwa Oasis in the Western Desert. The impressive 95% salt concentration of these natural phenomena mean you’ll float effortlessly on the water’s surface. It’s also a lovely treat for tired skin and achy joints.