Sharm El Sheikh City Guide

General Information / Guide

Nestled on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt, Sharm El Sheikh is a renowned resort destination. Known for its sheltered sandy beaches, clear waters, and coral reefs, it is often dubbed the 'City of Peace' due to its large number of international peace conferences.

Climate / Weather / When to Go

Experiencing a subtropical desert climate, Sharm El Sheikh has hot, sunny summers and mild, warm winters. The best time to visit is from September to May, when temperatures are more comfortable for beach activities and exploring the Red Sea.

How to Get There

Sharm El Sheikh International Airport serves as the main gateway, connecting the city with numerous global destinations. Additionally, the city is accessible by road from Cairo and other major cities in Egypt.

Food / Restaurants / What to Eat and Drink

Known for its seafood and international cuisine, Sharm El Sheikh offers a variety of dining experiences. Traditional Egyptian dishes like grilled fish, kofta, and shawarma are local favorites. Seafood restaurants along the coast provide fresh catches, and numerous resorts offer both local and international fare.

Important Places / Places to Visit

• Naama Bay: A bustling hub with sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, popular for its vibrant nightlife and water sports.
• Ras Muhammad National Park: A stunning national park known for its diverse marine life and coral reefs, ideal for snorkeling and diving.
• Saint Catherine's Monastery: One of the oldest working Christian monasteries in the world, with significant religious and historical importance.

What to Do

Dive into the enchanting underwater world of the Red Sea at Ras Muhammad National Park, a diver's paradise. Stroll through the lively Naama Bay, enjoying the vibrant nightlife and shopping for traditional Bedouin handicrafts. Don't miss a visit to the iconic Saint Catherine's Monastery, a place of profound historical and spiritual significance.

Nightlife / Bars / Entertainment

Known for its vibrant nightlife, Sharm El Sheikh offers an array of beach clubs, bars, and discos, particularly in areas like Naama Bay. The city's resorts often host live shows and themed nights, providing entertainment well into the early hours. For a quieter evening, enjoy a traditional Bedouin dinner under the stars in the desert.

Shopping / What to Buy

Sharm El Sheikh offers a diverse shopping experience with its luxury malls and traditional markets. The Old Market is ideal for finding Egyptian handicrafts, spices, and perfumes, while Naama Bay features shops selling international brands alongside local boutiques. Don’t forget to buy some Bedouin jewelry or papyrus paintings as a memento of your trip.

Festivals/ Events

April: Sinai Liberation Day (national holiday with various local festivities)
July/August: International Shopping & Tourism Festival (offers shopping discounts, cultural shows, and recreational activities)

Holidays / Festivals / Important Days

25 January: Revolution Day
25 April: Sinai Liberation Day
1 May: Labour Day
23 July: Revolution Day
6 October: Armed Forces Day
Eid al-Fitr (varies)
Eid al-Adha (varies)
Islamic New Year (varies)
Moulid an-Nabi (varies)

Things to Pay Attention to / Important Information

Arabic is the official language, with English widely spoken in tourist areas.
Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or traditional neighborhoods.
The city experiences a hot desert climate, so stay hydrated and use sunscreen.
Explore local markets for souvenirs like papyrus and spices, but remember to bargain.

Transportation

Local buses run throughout the city, connecting major tourist spots with affordable fares. Microbuses are also a popular and cheap way to get around.
Taxis and private car hires are readily available, with base fares typically starting around EGP 25. Ride-hailing services like Uber are also common for a more comfortable journey.
For short distances, tuk-tuks are a fun and economical choice, with negotiable fares.