Mansoura Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food to try, and local customs of Mansoura. Plan your trip with this helpful travel guide.


Introduction to Mansoura

Located in Lower Egypt, Mansoura is a busy, bustling city filled with history, culture, and natural beauty. Its strategic location on the east bank of the Damietta branch of the Nile has made it an important center of trade and commerce for centuries.

Mansoura is also a hub of education, with several prominent universities and schools located in the city. It’s a great place to explore for travelers who want to experience the authentic Egyptian way of life.

Here is a comprehensive guide to the places to visit, things to do, food to try, and local customs of Mansoura:

List of Places to Visit in Mansoura

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Mansoura National Museum: Explore the history of Mansoura and the Delta region through an impressive collection of artifacts.
  • Al Darb Al Ahmar School: Visit one of the oldest Islamic schools in Egypt, known for its stunning architecture and rich history.
  • Al-Muizz Street: Experience the vibrant and bustling street culture of Mansoura as you walk through the historic district.

Natural Attractions of Mansoura: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Nile River: Take a boat ride on the Nile River and enjoy the cool breeze and stunning views of the city.
  • Gabal Al-Nour Park: This park offers scenic views of the city and is a great place to relax and have a picnic.
  • Wadi Al-Natrun: Visit this gorgeous desert oasis located just outside of Mansoura, known for its natural beauty and historic monasteries.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mansoura

  • Miniature Canyon: This 5 km hiking trail takes you through a stunning canyon with towering rock formations and a series of small waterfalls.
  • Gabal Al-Nour Park: This expansive park also offers several hiking and biking trails, making it a great place for outdoor enthusiasts.

Best Things to Do in Mansoura: Activities and Tours

  • Explore the markets: The city is home to several vibrant and bustling markets, including an authentic spice market and fish market, that are a must-visit for any traveler.
  • Attend a festival: Mansoura hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the International Short Film Festival, the Mansoura Book Fair, and the Mansoura Traditional Crafts Festival.
  • Visit the mosques: Mansoura has an abundance of spectacular Islamic architecture, including several historic mosques such as Al-Dar Al-Ahmar, Al-Senussi, and Al-Fath.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mansoura

Day 1: Arrive in Mansoura and explore the city streets near your hotel.

Day 2: Visit Al Darb Al Ahmar School and Al-Muizz Street.

Day 3: Spend the day at the Mansoura National Museum and learn about the city’s history.

Day 4: Take a boat ride on the Nile River and have a picnic at Gabal Al-Nour Park.

Day 5: Hike the Miniature Canyon and explore the nearby marketplaces.

Day 6: Attend a festival or event in Mansoura.

Day 7: Visit the mosques in the city.

Food and Drink Scene of Mansoura

Must-Try Dishes

  • Feteer meshaltet: A flaky, layered pastry filled with sweet or savory ingredients.
  • Mahshi: Stuffed vegetables such as eggplants, peppers, or zucchinis, filled with a hearty rice and meat mixture.
  • Baladi bread: A traditional Egyptian bread, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Local Beverages

  • Karkadeh: A popular hibiscus tea infusion that is enjoyed hot or cold.
  • Sahlab: A creamy, comforting warm drink made of milk, sugar, and a special orchid root powder.
  • Sugarcane juice: Refreshing in the hot climate, sugarcane juice is a popular beverage made from freshly pressed sugarcane.

Where to Stay in Mansoura: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Delta Hotel Mansoura: A modern, centrally located hotel with comfortable rooms and excellent service.
  • El Nada Hotel: A friendly, budget-friendly option with a great location near the city center.
  • Al Dwaly Hotel: A luxurious hotel with elegant rooms and impressive amenities.

What to Buy in Mansoura: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Local handicrafts: Mansoura is known for its skilled craftsmen who produce beautiful textiles, pottery, and woodwork.
  • Spices: Visit the city’s spice market to pick up unique blends and fresh herbs to bring home.
  • Dates: The region around Mansoura is known for its delicious dates, which make a great edible souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Mansoura

  • Dress modestly: As a Muslim country, it’s important to respect the local culture by wearing conservative clothing that covers the shoulders, knees, and chest.
  • Friday is a holy day: Mosques are busy on Fridays, so plan your day accordingly.
  • Be respectful: It’s important to show respect to locals and their customs, including avoiding public displays of affection, loud arguments, and drunken behavior.

Best Time to Visit Mansoura

The best time to visit Mansoura is in the spring or fall, when temperatures are mild and comfortable, and the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. Summer in Mansoura can be extremely hot and humid, while winters can be cold and rainy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mansoura

Do:

  • Respect the culture and traditions of the city and its people.
  • Try the local cuisine and explore the markets and bazaars.
  • Dress appropriately in modest clothing.

Don’t:

  • Engage in public displays of affection.
  • Drink alcohol or do drugs in public.
  • Be disrespectful to locals, their religions, or traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mansoura

Mansoura is generally safe for travelers, as long as basic precautions are taken. Keep an eye on your valuables and avoid isolated or unlit areas at night. It’s also recommended to hire a reputable tour guide for outdoor hikes and adventures.

Health in Mansoura

It’s important to have up-to-date vaccinations and consult with a healthcare professional before traveling to Mansoura. Drink bottled water and avoid consuming raw fruits and vegetables that have been washed in tap water.

Getting to Mansoura: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Mansoura

The closest airport to Mansoura is Borg El Arab International Airport, located approximately 120 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or bus to travel to Mansoura.

Bus Stations Near Mansoura

Mansoura is connected to several cities in Egypt via bus services such as Go Bus, West Delta, and Emilian Tour.

Other Options

You can also reach Mansoura by train, with regular services running from major cities in Egypt.

How to Get Around in Mansoura

Getting around Mansoura is easy, with several options available such as taxis, buses, and tuk-tuks. Walking is also a great way to explore the city streets.

Where to Go Next from Mansoura: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Cairo: The capital city of Egypt is located just a few hours away from Mansoura and offers an abundance of historic sites, museums, and vibrant street life.
  • Alexandria: Another major city in Egypt, Alexandria is known for its stunning architecture, cultural attractions, and stunning coastline.
  • Dahab: Located on the Sinai Peninsula, Dahab is a popular beach resort town that offers world-class scuba diving and water sports.

Conclusion

Mansoura is an underrated gem for travelers who want to explore the authentic side of Egypt. With its rich history, natural beauty, and friendly locals, it’s a great place to visit for anyone looking for a unique travel experience. Plan your trip with this comprehensive guide, and have a memorable time exploring the wonders of Mansoura.

Exhibition hall of National Museum Mansoura, located in the historic ''Dar Ibn Lokman'' house. Exhibition hall of National Museum Mansoura, located in the historic ''Dar Ibn Lokman'' house.