The Sinai Peninsula and Red Sea Coast: Places to Explore

Ismailiya

Halfway between Bur Said and Suez, this quaint city on Lake Timsah was founded by and named after Khedive Ismail for those working on the canal. The director of the Suez Canal Company, Ferdinand de Lesseps, lived here until the completion of the canal, and his home still stands—off-limits, alas—to the public. Ismailiya's population is close to 700,000, and the city is known for its wide streets, expansive public gardens, and cleanliness.

There is a distinct colonial feel in the area known as Hay al-Afrangi (the foreign district), because of the French colonial architecture of the remaining buildings. A stroll down Shara Muhammad Ali leads you along the Sweetwater Canal and eventually to the house of Ferdinand de Lesseps.

Perpendicular to Shara Muhammad Ali, running away from the Sweetwater Canal, Shara Sultan Hussayn has a number of restaurants, stores, banks, and a Thomas Cook office. From here, if you turn left (southwest) onto Shara Saad Zaghloul and walk to Maydan al-Gummhurriya, you'll get a feel for the wide streets and calm pace.

Ismailiya at a Glance

Planner

Sights

Restaurants

Hotels

Elsewhere in The Sinai Peninsula and Red Sea Coast

See Also

Free Fodor's Newsletter

Subscribe today for weekly travel inspiration, tips, and special offers.

 Fodor's Trip Planning Ideas

Travel Deals in The Sinai Peninsula and Red Sea Coast

View all travel deals
* Some taxes, fees additional