10 Best Things to Do in Sharm El Sheikh
What is Sharm El Sheikh Most Famous For?
Finding the best things to do in Sharm El Sheikh is a discovery of desert beauty, cultural history and underwater wonders. Nestled on the Red Sea, this Egyptian city is bordered by the spectacular landscapes of the Sinai Desert. Immerse yourself in local culture at markets while shopping for handmade treasures and dining on Egyptian cuisine.
For underwater adventurers, the Red Sea’s coral reefs and renowned dive sites await. Above water, visit Ras Mohammed National Park to observe Egypt’s iconic wildlife and incredible views. For memorable days of family fun, visit the beach at Na’ama Bay and enjoy thrilling waterslides at Aqua Blu Waterpark.
What are the best things to do in Sharm El Sheikh?
1. Sinai Desert
An oasis of ancient relics and vibrant colours of a desert canyon
Good for: History, Adventure, Unusual
Embark on a captivating journey in the thrilling Sinai Desert. Hike to the summit of Mount Sinai to watch an unforgettable sunrise and explore the UNESCO-listed St. Catherine’s Monastery, built around the site of the iconic burning bush. The monastery contains thousands of historic relics that have been preserved for centuries.
For an exhilarating desert adventure, take a jeep safari to Coloured Canyon. Witness striking narrow gorges, sheer rock walls and hidden canyons sculpted by the wind. Watch how sunlight reveals a tapestry of vibrant earthy hues on the canyon walls. For a diverse experience, travel to the coast where the copper-coloured desert meets the turquoise waters of the Red Sea to explore the underwater wonders of coral reefs.
Sinai Desert
2. Ras Mohammed National Park
Diverse marine ecosystems with coastal and desert views
Good for: Photo, Budget, Adventure
Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Ras Mohammed National Park, where diverse flora, fauna and marine life await discovery. From snorkelling and diving to hiking trails that unveil breath-taking desert and Red Sea vistas, this park is a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Dive into the park’s renowned coral reefs including Shark Reef, Yolanda Reef and Satellite Reef. As you explore the vibrant colours of soft and hard corals, look for parrotfish, eagle rays and green turtles gliding through the pristine waters. Above water, hiking trails offer an opportunity to explore the park’s arid landscapes. Marsa Bareika Trail offers magnificent desert and coastal viewpoints. Along the trail, you can spot ospreys, common terns, red foxes, and the iconic Nubian ibex.
Location: Sharm Al Sheikh - Raas Mohammed, Qesm Sharm Ash Sheikh, South Sinai Governorate 8750001, Egypt
Open: Daily from 9 am to 5 pm
Phone: +20 (0)69 3660668
Ras Mohammed National Park
3. St. Catherine’s Monastery and Mt. Sinai
Ancient relics and spectacular sunrises on the summit of Mt. Sinai
Good for: Photo, History, Unusual
Nestled at the base of Mount Sinai is St. Catherine’s Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that beckons history enthusiasts. Safeguarded by monks for centuries, the monastery’s artefacts, icons and relics represent the rich history of Christianity. Built between 548 and 565 AD, the monastery encircles what is believed to be the burning bush seen by the prophet Moses. The bush, a Rubus sanctus, or “Holy Bramble”, is a native thorny shrub.
Climbing Mt. Sinai is a must during your visit. The most popular route begins at the monastery and ends at the summit, at 2,285 metres. Many visitors choose to begin their ascent in the evening, so they can enjoy a memorable sunrise over the spectacular mountain landscape.
Location: HX4G+9CF, Saint Catherine, South Sinai Governorate 8730070, Egypt
Open: Monday–Thursday, Saturday from 9 am to 11.30 pm (closed on Fridays and Sundays)
Phone: +20 (0)69 3470353
St. Catherine’s Monastery and Mt. Sinai
4. Old Market
Local market with traditional Egyptian cuisine spices
Good for: Food, Shoppers
Situated at the heart of Sharm El Sheikh, the Old Market offers an authentic cultural experience. Immerse yourself in daily local life while shopping for a variety of locally made handicrafts, including intricately designed Egyptian jewellery, textiles and ceramics. Shop for souvenirs and practise your bargaining skills or relax at a hookah lounge.
When evening arrives, the market comes alive with the ethereal sounds of traditional music, played on the oud (a stringed instrument) and the ney (a flute). Delve into the rich flavours and aromas of traditional dishes made with aromatic cumin, coriander, garlic and baharat, a spice that adds a warm, earthy flavour. Popular cuisine includes kushari (a mix of rice, lentils and pasta), kebabs and falafel.
Location: Sharm Al Shiekh, South Sinai Governorate 8761134, Egypt
Open: 24/7
Phone: +20 (0)10 18683119
Old Market
5. SOHO Square
Lively local plaza
Good for: Families, Shoppers
SOHO Square is one of the most popular places to visit in Sharm El Sheikh. The square provides a variety of activities for locals and visitors alike. The inviting open-air plaza features a central piazza surrounded by delightful fountains, statues and colourful flower gardens.
Take a stroll on the wide promenade and enjoy SOHO Square’s inviting atmosphere and unique shops. Don’t miss the distinctive atmosphere of the Ice Bar where you can enjoy drinks and massive ice sculptures. In the evenings, the Square often features live performances, including traditional Egyptian music and dance. If you prefer to unwind and unplug, relax at one of the indulgent spa and wellness centres.
Location: SOHO Square, South Sinai Governorate 46628, Egypt
Open: Daily from 1 pm to 3 am
Phone: +20 (0)10 00109109
SOHO Square
6. Aqua Blu Water Park
Over 60 slides and attractions at this exhilarating waterpark
Good for: Families, Photo
If thrilling family activities are on your agenda, fun in the sun awaits at Aqua Blu Water Park in Aqua Park City. The park features more than 60 different water slides and games for the whole family to enjoy. Small children can also take a dip in several shallow pools that are ideal for splash and play time.
Although the park is popular with children, there are plenty of rides for adults to experience, including the exhilarating tube slides. Take a relaxing float on the lazy river then experience the park’s restaurants, shops and bars. Several resorts are located within walking distance of the park, making this attraction accessible for everyone to enjoy.
Location: V843+RMH, Sharm Al Shiekh, South Sinai Governorate 8762502, Egypt
Open: 24/7
Phone: +20 (0)10 22148178
Aqua Blu Water Park
7. Ras Um Sid
A renowned coral reef with giant clams and Gorgonian corals
Good for: Adventure, Couples, Families
Dive into the colourful underwater world of Ras Um Sid’s coral reefs. As you snorkel the shallow areas along the shoreline, explore the narrow strip between the reef flat and the drop-off. This spot is ideal for observing colonies of giant clams, angelfish, Red Sea clownfish, yellowbar angelfish and bluecheek butterfly fish hanging out with vivid anemones. You may also spot eagle rays or sea turtles.
In deeper waters with stronger currents, Gorgonian corals have a striking appearance with vibrant shades of red, yellow, purple and orange as they sway in the ocean current. A visit to this coral reef is renowned by divers as one of the best things to do in Sharm El Sheikh.
Ras Um Sid
8. Al Mustafa Mosque
Islamic culture and traditional practices
Good for: History, Couples, Budget
Explore a deep sense of history and culture at the heart of Sharm El Sheikh on a tour of the Al Mustafa Mosque. This religious and cultural site is a place of worship and welcomes non-Muslims interested in learning about Islamic culture and practices. Take a moment before your tour to study the mosque’s exterior architectural features that blend traditional Islamic architecture with modern design.
Inside the mosque, observe intricate patterns and decorative elements that are important in Islamic art and design. Wander through the tranquil outdoor courtyards and manicured gardens. Guided tours are offered which can provide assistance with following local customs and dress. Plan your visit to avoid prayer times, which are held 5 times a day.
Location: V7RX+XVJ، حي النور، Qesm Sharm Ash Sheikh, South Sinai Governorate 8761251, Egypt
Open: 24/7
Phone: +20 (0)10 01704884
Al Mustafa Mosque
9. Thistlegorm Wreck
Military history buried at the bottom of the Red Sea
Good for: Adventure, History, Unusual
Regarded as one of the best wreck dives in the world, the Thistlegorm wreck allows divers to explore military history at the bottom of the Red Sea. Diving the wreck site of the SS Thistlegorm blends the discovery of military artefacts and diverse marine life.
Re-discovered in 1952 by Jacques-Yves Cousteau, the shipwreck met its fate at the hands of German aircraft bombers in 1941 when it was transporting an array of military cargo including tanks, vehicles, locomotives and motorcycles. This British, armed merchant navy ship and its artefacts are now an artificial reef that provides a habitat for marine life, including coral species, batfishes, barracudas, crocodile fish and sea turtles.
Location: El Tor, South Sinai Governorate, Egypt
Open: Daily from 9 am to 5 pm
Phone: +20 (0)10 22148178
Thistlegorm Wreck
10. Na’ama Bay
Friendly tourist hub
Good for: Families, Adventure, Budget
Whether you want to spend your time snorkelling, shopping or indulging in Egyptian cuisine, Na’ama Bay offers some of the best things to do in Sharm El Sheikh. Relax on the beach and soak up the sun or explore life underwater on a snorkelling or diving excursion. If you prefer shopping, you will find a variety of locally made handicrafts at shops and markets.
Enjoy the aroma of a medley of spices wafting through the air and try different Egyptian foods made by friendly locals. Enjoy the sights and sounds of families and friends who gather to enjoy the evening. At dusk, pick a waterfront spot to enjoy the mesmerising glow of the sun as it dips beneath the horizon.
Na’ama Bay
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