- Attractions & Things to Do in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt
- Snapshots from My Journey in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt (2022)
- Videos from My Journey in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt (2022)
- Plan Your Perfect Trip with Our Trusted Travel Partners
- Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt: Ratings
- Beyond the City: Exploring Surroundings and Stays in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt
- FAQ About Things to Do in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt
Sharm El-Sheikh, nestled between the Sinai Peninsula’s desert and the Red Sea, is a renowned resort town known for its shimmering beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and lively nightlife. For those pondering things to do in Sharm El-Sheikh, diving or snorkeling in the Ras Mohammed National Park, a protected marine area with diverse marine life and shipwrecks, and basking on the sands of Naama Bay with its promenade of cafes and shops are top activities.
The town’s Old Market offers a taste of local culture, with its array of spices, perfumes, and handicrafts. Nearby, the desert landscape provides opportunities for adventurous activities, from quad biking to camel treks, with the backdrop of the iconic Sinai Mountains.
Beyond its coastal allure and desert adventures, Sharm El-Sheikh is a hub for wellness and relaxation, with numerous luxury resorts offering spa treatments and wellness retreats. For those seeking the best places to visit in Egypt, Sharm El-Sheikh’s blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and modern amenities makes it a premier destination.
Attractions & Things to Do in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt
1. Naama Bay
Naama Bay is the heart of Sharm El-Sheikh and a must-visit for anyone traveling to the area. It is a natural bay in Sharm el-Sheikh resort and is considered one of the most beautiful bays in the world.
Location: Located in the heart of Sharm El-Sheikh. Easily accessible by taxi, car, or walking if staying nearby.
Scenic Spot: Stunning beachfront promenade lined with cafes, shops, and restaurants, offering a lively atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit: Evening for a vibrant nightlife scene or early morning for a peaceful beach experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Ideal for all, including families, couples, and solo travelers.
Price: Free to visit, but activities, dining, and entertainment have varying costs.
Travel Tip: The bay is lined with a pedestrian promenade, so it’s a great place to take a leisurely stroll in the evening.
2. Ras Mohammed National Park
Ras Mohammed National Park is located at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula and offers some of the best snorkeling and diving in the world. The park is home to more than 220 species of coral and over 1,000 species of fish.
Location: Situated at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, about 25 km from Sharm El-Sheikh. Reachable by car, taxi, or guided tour.
Scenic Spot: Home to some of the world’s best coral reefs, diverse marine life, and stunning coastal landscapes.
Best Time to Visit: Morning for ideal visibility while snorkeling or diving. Best months: March to May and September to November.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all, but water activities may not be ideal for very young children or elderly visitors.
Price: Entrance fee is around $5 per person. Snorkeling and diving tours vary from $30-$100.
Travel Tip: Don’t forget to bring your underwater camera to capture the stunning marine life.
3. Tiran Island
Tiran Island is located at the mouth of the Gulf of Aqaba and is a popular destination for snorkeling and diving. The island is surrounded by coral reefs and is home to a wide variety of marine life.
Location: Situated at the mouth of the Gulf of Aqaba, accessible only by guided boat tours from Sharm El-Sheikh’s marina.
Scenic Spot: Crystal-clear waters with vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life, making it a top diving and snorkeling destination.
Best Time to Visit: Morning for calmer waters and better visibility underwater.
Suitable for All Ages: Best for swimmers, snorkelers, and divers. Not recommended for those who get seasick easily.
Price: Boat tours range from $40-$100 per person, depending on the package.
Travel Tip: The island can only be visited as part of a guided tour, so be sure to book in advance.
4. St. Catherine’s Monastery
St. Catherine’s Monastery is one of the oldest working Christian monasteries in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monastery is located at the foot of Mount Sinai and is home to a collection of religious art, manuscripts, and icons.
Location: At the foot of Mount Sinai, approximately 2.5 hours from Sharm El-Sheikh. Reachable by car or guided tour.
Scenic Spot: One of the world’s oldest Christian monasteries, featuring stunning ancient architecture and religious artifacts.
Best Time to Visit: Morning to avoid the midday heat.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all but may not be engaging for young children.
Price: Entrance is around $10-$15 per person. Guided tours may cost more.
Travel Tip: Dress modestly when visiting the monastery as it is a religious site.
5. Mount Sinai
Mount Sinai is a mountain in the Sinai Peninsula of Egypt that is a possible location of the biblical Mount Sinai. It is a popular destination for religious pilgrimages and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Location: About 2.5 hours from Sharm El-Sheikh. Accessible by car or guided tour. Climbing requires walking for 2-4 hours.
Scenic Spot: Offers breathtaking sunrise views from the summit, making it a popular pilgrimage and hiking destination.
Best Time to Visit: Night climb to reach the summit by sunrise.
Suitable for All Ages: Best for physically fit visitors. The hike may be challenging for young children and elderly travelers.
Price: Free to climb, but guided tours cost around $30-$50 per person.
Travel Tip: The climb to the top can be quite strenuous, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water.
6. Shark’s Bay
Shark’s Bay is a popular beach destination in Sharm El-Sheikh and is home to a wide variety of water sports and activities. The bay is also a great spot for snorkeling and diving.
Location: Around 10 km north of Naama Bay, easily accessible by taxi or shuttle bus.
Scenic Spot: A serene beach area with crystal-clear waters, great for snorkeling and diving.
Best Time to Visit: Morning for a peaceful beach experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Ideal for all ages, including families with kids.
Price: Free access to the beach, but some private beach resorts may charge an entrance fee of around $5-$10.
Travel Tip: The bay can get quite crowded, so be sure to arrive early to secure a good spot.
7. Old Market
The Old Market is a bustling bazaar in the heart of Sharm El-Sheikh and is a great place to pick up souvenirs, spices, and local handicrafts.
Location: Located in the heart of Sharm El-Sheikh, accessible by taxi or bus.
Scenic Spot: Bustling bazaar with colorful stalls selling spices, souvenirs, textiles, and traditional handicrafts.
Best Time to Visit: Evening when the weather is cooler and the market is lively.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for everyone, but young children should be supervised due to the crowded areas.
Price: Free to visit, but shopping prices vary. Haggling is encouraged.
Travel Tip: Don’t be afraid to haggle for a better price, it’s expected in the market.
8. Aqua Blue Water Park
Aqua Blue Water Park is a fun-filled water park in Sharm El-Sheikh that offers a wide variety of slides and attractions for all ages.
Location: Located in Hadaba, about 10 minutes from Naama Bay, accessible by taxi or shuttle bus.
Scenic Spot: Large water park with numerous slides, pools, and family-friendly attractions.
Best Time to Visit: Morning to avoid peak crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Perfect for families with children of all ages.
Price: Entry fees range from $20-$35 per person.
Travel Tip: Be sure to bring sunscreen and a hat as the sun can be quite strong.
9. Nabq Protectorate
Nabq Protectorate is a protected area in Sharm El-Sheikh that is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. The protectorate is a great place to take a hike and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Location: Around 35 km north of Sharm El-Sheikh, reachable by 4×4 vehicles or guided tours.
Scenic Spot: A protected nature reserve featuring mangrove forests, desert landscapes, and diverse wildlife.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures.
Suitable for All Ages: Best for nature lovers and hikers; not ideal for very young children due to rough terrain.
Price: Entrance fees vary, typically around $5-$10 per person.
Travel Tip: Be sure to bring plenty of water and wear comfortable shoes for hiking.
10. SOHO Square
SOHO Square is a modern shopping and entertainment complex in Sharm El-Sheikh. The square is home to a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
Location: In the Sharks Bay area, easily accessible by taxi or shuttle bus.
Scenic Spot: A modern shopping and entertainment complex with restaurants, bars, and live performances.
Best Time to Visit: Evening when the lights, music, and entertainment are at their best.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for everyone, with activities for both children and adults.
Price: Free to visit, but dining and entertainment costs vary.
Travel Tip: The square is a great place to visit in the evening when it comes alive with music and entertainment.
Snapshots from My Journey in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt (2022)
Videos from My Journey in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt (2022)
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Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt: Ratings
Kid-Friendly Activities in Sharm El-Sheikh: 8/10 – Sharm El-Sheikh offers numerous family-friendly activities such as snorkeling and diving at Ras Mohammed National Park, visiting Aqua Blue Water Park, and enjoying the beaches. Many resorts provide kids’ clubs and entertainment programs, making it an excellent destination for families.
Nightlife in Sharm El-Sheikh: 8/10 – Sharm El-Sheikh has a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of bars, nightclubs, and beach parties. Areas like Naama Bay and SOHO Square are popular for their lively nightlife options, including live music, dance clubs, and relaxed beachfront bars. The city’s nightlife caters to a wide range of preferences.
Sport in Sharm El-Sheikh: 9/10 – Sharm El-Sheikh is a hub for water sports, including snorkeling, scuba diving, windsurfing, and kiteboarding. The Red Sea’s clear waters and rich marine life make it ideal for underwater activities. The city also offers desert safaris, quad biking, and golfing, providing a broad range of sports and adventure options.
Culture and Attractions in Sharm El-Sheikh: 7/10 – While Sharm El-Sheikh is primarily known for its beach and water activities, it also offers cultural attractions such as the Al Mustafa Mosque and Coptic Church. The city’s proximity to significant sites like Mount Sinai and St. Catherine’s Monastery adds to its cultural appeal.
Gastronomy in Sharm El-Sheikh: 8/10 – The food scene in Sharm El-Sheikh is diverse, featuring Egyptian cuisine and a wide range of international options. Fresh seafood is a highlight, with dishes like grilled fish and calamari being popular. The city has numerous restaurants and street food vendors, catering to various tastes and budgets.
Shopping in Sharm El-Sheikh: 7/10 – Shopping in Sharm El-Sheikh includes modern malls like SOHO Square and traditional markets such as the Old Market, where visitors can buy spices, textiles, jewelry, and souvenirs. The city offers a mix of traditional and modern shopping experiences, suitable for different preferences.
Prices in Sharm El-Sheikh: 7/10 – Sharm El-Sheikh is relatively affordable, with reasonable prices for accommodation, dining, and activities. The city provides good value for money, making it accessible for both budget and mid-range travelers.
Average price for a hotel night: $70
Cost of a lunch at a local restaurant: $10
Price of a beer: $4
Price of a coffee: $2.50
Beyond the City: Exploring Surroundings and Stays in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt
For those looking to explore beyond the renowned coral reefs and vibrant nightlife, top day trips near Sharm El-Sheikh unlock the wonders of the Sinai Peninsula. Discover the historic Saint Catherine’s Monastery, the majestic Mount Sinai, and the hidden oasis of the Colored Canyon, each offering an adventure that combines natural beauty with ancient history.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Sharm El-Sheikh accommodations offer a variety of choices, from luxurious resorts with their own private beaches and world-class diving centers to cozy, boutique hotels that provide a more personalized experience. Each ensures a comfortable base to experience this jewel of the Red Sea.
FAQ About Things to Do in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt
What are the top attractions in Sharm El-Sheikh?
The top attractions in Sharm El-Sheikh include Ras Mohammed National Park, Naama Bay, Tiran Island, and the Old Market.
Is snorkeling or diving a must-do activity in Sharm El-Sheikh?
Absolutely! Sharm El-Sheikh is renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, making snorkeling and diving some of the most popular activities.
Can I go on a desert safari from Sharm El-Sheikh?
Yes, desert safaris, often on quad bikes or camels, are a popular way to explore the Sinai desert and experience Bedouin culture.
Are there family-friendly activities in Sharm El-Sheikh?
Yes, families can enjoy Aqua Blue Water Park, visit the Dolphina Park, or take glass-bottom boat tours to view marine life without getting wet.
What nightlife options does Sharm El-Sheikh offer?
Sharm El-Sheikh has a lively nightlife with numerous bars, clubs, and beach parties, especially around Naama Bay.
Is the St. Catherine’s Monastery worth a visit?
Definitely! Located at the base of Mount Sinai, St. Catherine’s Monastery is one of the world’s oldest Christian monasteries and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Where can I get the best views of Sharm El-Sheikh?
For panoramic views of the city and the Red Sea, consider visiting the viewpoints around Ras Um Sid or take a scenic drive through the Sinai mountains.
What local events or festivals are celebrated in Sharm El-Sheikh?
Sharm El-Sheikh hosts the International Shopping & Tourism Festival, which promotes local products, arts, and culture. The city also sees various diving events and competitions throughout the year.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sharm_El_Sheikh
https://www.getyourguide.com/sharm-el-sheikh-l408
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