Things to do in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt: A Local Guide
Sharm El-Sheikh and Hurghada are similar in many ways. So it’s no surprise that travellers often spend time in both resorts – either as part of one trip or at different times of year.
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Sharm El Sheikh
A popular holiday destination that attracts millions of visitors each year. With its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and year-round sunshine, this Red Sea Riviera resort offers something for everyone.
From the bustling nightlife of Naama Bay to the peaceful seclusion of Nabq Bay, there are plenty of destinations to choose from.
Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun, explore ancient history, or indulge in some world-class diving, this resort has it all. There’s a wide range of accommodation, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly apartments, you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay.
Sharm El Sheikh or Hurghada?
Hurghada is known for its diving and snorkelling opportunities, while Sharm El Sheikh is famous for its beautiful beaches and world-class diving sites. By combining the two destinations, you can experience the best of both worlds. Start your trip in Hurghada, where you can explore the Red Sea and its diverse marine life.
Take a diving or snorkelling tour to see colourful fish, coral reefs, and even shipwrecks. If you’re not a fan of diving, you can still enjoy the underwater world by taking a glass-bottom boat tour.
After a few days in Hurghada, head to Sharm El Sheikh for some relaxation on the beach. With its clear blue waters and soft white sand, its the perfect place to unwind.
Our Favourite Things to Do in Sharm El Sheikh
1. White Island and Ras Mohamed Sailing Trip
Take a sailing trip to White Island and Ras Mohamed National Park with GetYourGuide. This day trip is perfect for those who want to explore the beauty of the Red Sea. You’ll get to snorkel in the clear waters, see the colourful coral reefs and swim with the vibrant marine life. The trip also includes a visit to the White Island, where you can relax on the beach and enjoy the stunning views.
2. ATV, Camel Ride with BBQ Dinner and Show
Experience the desert with an ATV and camel ride tour from GetYourGuide. This tour is perfect for those who want to explore the desert and enjoy the traditional Bedouin culture. You’ll ride an ATV through the desert, take a camel ride and watch a traditional Bedouin show. The tour also includes a delicious BBQ dinner under the stars.
3. Relax Around The Hotel Pool
You’re on holiday so relax! You don’t always have to be on the move, and Egypt’s Red Sea resorts are great for letting go of your day-to-day worries and completely switching off. Many of the hotels have fantastic swimming pools and are located within easy reach of beautiful beaches. Or why not push the boat out, and book yourself into a local spa for a relaxing massage or a luxury treatment.
4. Head Out For The Day
Head out from your hotel and explore the local area. One popular destination is Dahab. This laid-back town is known for its excellent diving and snorkelling opportunities. You can also enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and explore the local markets and cafes. Another nearby destination is Nabq, which is home to a beautiful national park. Or if you’re looking for a lively atmosphere, head to Naama Bay. This bustling area is full of restaurants, bars, and shops, and is a popular spot for nightlife. You can also enjoy activities such as parasailing, jet skiing, and camel riding.
5. Enjoy Local Food and Drink
There are many restaurants offering a diverse range of cuisine, including Italian, seafood, and Mediterranean. Da Mauro Solo Pasta & Pizza is a popular Italian restaurant, while Arab Bucks is a great option for seafood and cafe-style dining. You can also find many restaurants serving traditional Egyptian cuisine, such as koshari and ful medames.
How to Get to Sharm El Sheikh
The easiest and most convenient way to get here is by air, with the airport just a few kilometres from the city centre, and is served by several airlines. You can fly from Cairo, as well as from other cities in Egypt, such as Alexandria and Luxor. There are also direct flights from many European cities, including London, Paris, and Berlin.
If you’re travelling on a budget, you can also get to Sharm El Sheikh by bus. There are several bus companies that operate services between Cairo and Sharm El Sheikh, with journey times ranging from 6 to 8 hours. The buses are comfortable and air-conditioned, and the fares are relatively cheap.
You can also take a bus from other cities in Egypt, such as Alexandria and Hurghada.
Other FAQs for Sharm El Sheikh
Some of the top-rated hotels in the area include the Rixos Premium Seagate, the Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh, and the Royal Savoy Sharm El Sheikh. You can find more information on the top-rated hotels by visiting TripAdvisor.
Sharm El Sheikh enjoys a warm and sunny climate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C. The hottest months are July and August, while the coolest months are January and February.
Sharm El Sheikh is generally a safe place to visit, but it is important to take precautions to ensure your safety. It is recommended that you avoid travelling alone at night, keep your valuables in a safe place, and be aware of your surroundings at all times. You can find more information on safety tips by visiting Gov.uk.
Jet2 offers a variety of holiday packages to Sharm El Sheikh, including flights and accommodation. You can find the best deals for Jet2 holidays by visiting Jet2Holidays.
Sharm El Sheikh has a rich history and culture, dating back to ancient times. The area was an important trading center for the Bedouin tribes, and it was also a popular destination for pilgrims travelling to Mecca. Today, This is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and world-class resorts.
While the area is generally safe for tourists, it is important to be aware of the current political situation in the region and to take precautions when travelling near the border.
Our Final Thoughts
There’s so many things to do in Sharm El Sheikh. It makes a great twin-centre holiday with Hurghada. Or perhaps somewhere to think about if you’re want to organise a separate trip to somewhere different.
Hotels here are usually of a great standard, there’s lots of activities to enjoy including quad biking, visiting desert camps, scuba diving and many other watersports. The local area is interesting enough to head out of your hotel and explore the local shops and markets, and try and see a bit more of the real Egypt.
