Ismailia

Sitting on the west bank of the Suez Canal at the point where it widens into Lake Timsah, Ismailia was built in the 19th century as the operational headquarters of the Suez Canal Company under Khedive Ismail. The city is known for its parks and green spaces, and its relatively clean air — a result of limited heavy industry compared to neighbouring governorates — draws visitors particularly in spring and during public holidays. Tunnels beneath the Canal connect the city to the Sinai Peninsula.

• Population429,465
• Nearest water1.6 km
• Nearest mountain6.6 km