For travelers with a layover in Mersa-matruh, the proximity of MUH to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 40 minutes via Taxi / Private Car, and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
A few things to sort out before you leave MUH:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Egypt. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Mersa-matruh takes about 40 minutes by Taxi / Private Car. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is EGP. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
How to Get Into Mersa-matruh
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi / Private Car | ~40 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~60 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi / Private Car is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Planning Your Layover Spending
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Mersa-matruh:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $5 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $20 USD total.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Mersa-matruh.
Things to Do During Your Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Mersa-matruh:
Start with Cleopatra’s Beach. Perfect for a short walk when you need fresh air after a long flight. Then, if time allows, make your way to Rommel’s Cave Museum. Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside MUH, you can spend time at Airport Terminal Relaxation or try Airport Mini-Mart & Souvenirs. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Grab a Meal
- In the city: El Gomhoria Restaurant and Abu Shakra Restaurant are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Mersa-matruh.
- At the airport: MUH Terminal Cafe and Snack & Juice Bar will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at MUH may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Mersa-matruh’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
WiFi at MUH should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Egypt and you’re good to go.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Long overnight layover? Your options at MUH include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Egypt also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Mersa-matruh with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Mersa-matruh may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.