Once a quiet fishing village on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, Sharm El Sheikh has transformed into Egypt’s most polished coastal resort city. With warm winter temperatures, crystal-clear waters and a mix of nature, culture and entertainment, the region now stands as a favorite for travelers seeking an exotic yet accessible holiday.
In recent years, the city has drawn couples, adventure seekers and families alike, thanks to its colorful marine life, modern resorts, lively old town markets and dramatic desert scenery. Sharm El Sheikh combines all the elements of a classic sun holiday with a touch of Middle Eastern culture and Red Sea magic.
A winter-sun haven on the Red Sea
The biggest attraction of Sharm El Sheikh is its climate. Even in December, temperatures hover around the mid-20s, making it one of the closest warm destinations for European travelers.
The Red Sea coastline is famous for its world-class coral reefs, accessible directly from hotel jetties or nearby bays. Whether diving or snorkeling, travelers encounter vibrant coral gardens and tropical fish just meters from the shore.
The city’s extensive range of hotels—from budget-friendly resorts to luxury properties—also contributes to its rising popularity.
Old Market: The city’s lively heart
In Case You Missed It
Start exploring in the Old Market, known locally as Old Sharm. Here, woven textiles, lamps, spices, souvenirs and jewelry fill narrow streets lined with stalls.
Street food stands offer everything from fresh seafood to grilled kofta and Egyptian pastries. Compared to Naama Bay and Soho Square, Old Market remains one of the most affordable areas in the city.
Cultural stops: Museums, mosques and a cathedral
Sharm El Sheikh surprises many visitors with its cultural depth:
Papyrus Museum & Workshop
A shop-museum hybrid where visitors learn how real papyrus is made and how to distinguish it from imitations. The store features beautifully illustrated artworks for purchase.
Al Sahaba Mosque
Completed in 2017, this mosque has become one of the city’s most photographed landmarks. Its tall minarets, detailed exterior and spacious interior make it a must-see.
Heavenly Cathedral
A modern Coptic cathedral built in 2010, featuring intricate frescoes, stained-glass windows and impressive domed ceilings.
King Tut Museum
Located inside Genena Mall, the museum showcases replicas of Tutankhamun’s treasures and offers an intimate look at ancient Egyptian culture.
Ras Mohammed: A world-class underwater paradise
Just an hour from Sharm El Sheikh lies Ras Mohammed National Park, one of the world’s most celebrated diving and snorkeling destinations.
Home to pristine coral reefs, dramatic drop-offs and an abundance of marine species, the park amazes even seasoned travelers. Snorkelers can explore shallow lagoons, while divers head to deeper sites known for their rich biodiversity.
Desert adventures: Bedouin nights & stargazing
Sharm El Sheikh’s desert tours offer a completely different experience.
Jeep and quad-bike safaris take travelers across the rugged Sinai landscape, surrounded by canyons, rock formations and golden sand. At sunset, the desert transforms into a cinematic backdrop.
Evening tours often include traditional Bedouin dinners, cultural performances and, in clear weather, unforgettable stargazing sessions. Large telescopes set deep in the desert allow visitors to observe the moon, Saturn and Mars in extraordinary detail.
Dahab and the canyons: The region’s alternative side
About an hour north of Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab offers a relaxed, bohemian atmosphere with beachside cafés, local restaurants and easygoing charm.
The town is famous for the Blue Hole, one of the world’s most iconic diving sites. Nearby, the Colored Canyon and Salama (Red) Canyon are known for their striking rock formations shaped by erosion over centuries.
Both locations are ideal for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Saint Catherine’s Monastery & Mount Sinai
A short drive inland brings visitors to the legendary Saint Catherine’s Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the oldest Christian monasteries still in use.
Located at the foot of Mount Sinai, the site is sacred to the three Abrahamic religions. Some travelers choose to hike the mountain before dawn to watch the sunrise—a spiritual and visually striking experience.
Perfect for couples, families and adventure seekers
Sharm El Sheikh’s combination of luxury resorts, calm bays, adventure activities and cultural attractions makes it suitable for all types of travelers.
Whether you prefer relaxing by the pool, exploring ancient sites, tasting Egyptian cuisine or discovering underwater life, Sharm El Sheikh offers a relaxed yet rich travel experience year-round.
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