The Al-Montazah district is located on Egypt's north shore, on the outskirts of Alexandria, the country's second-biggest city. "Al-Montazah" refers to both the district and the historic royal park that bears the same name. The AL-Montazah district is also home to the Abu Qir neighbourhood, known for its delicious and fresh seafood, Nelson Island, and the submerged towns of Thonis-Heracleion and Canopus, which were re-discovered in the late 1990s.
The Montazah Palace and Royal Gardens extend for approximately 3000 metres, all the way to the nearby beach. It is home to palaces from the 19th and 20th centuries, as well as a vast array of trees and plants, many of which are rare and were planted more than 75 years ago. Picnics, sports, and marine activities such as water skiing, diving, and snorkelling are all popular activities at the Park.
Just outside the Park in the Abu Qir area are Nelson Island and the sunken cities of Thonis-Heracleion and Canopus. Thonis-Heracleion was Egypt's largest Mediterranean port back in 331 BCE, about 2.5 km off the coast of Abu Qir. Nelson Island is located 4 km off Abu Qir Bay and covers an area of 350 meters. Once considered a strategic entry point in the British-French wars, today, the island and sunken cities represent a local picnicking, fishing site and a 10-meter underwater museum. Travellers can also enjoy the local gastronomy, the many local coffee shops where they can enjoy the view of the sea, play the Tawla, take the 'red sightseeing bus' across the seaside, and feel the rich vibes of the city in the Al Montazah district.