Sharm El Sheikh holidays

How to reach Sharm El-Sheikh

Sharm El-Sheikh is well-connected to the UK by air.

• Flight Time: Direct flights to Sharm El-Sheikh from the UK typically take around 5 to 6 hours.

• Transfer to the City Centre: Upon arrival, taxis and private transfers are available to take you to your resort or hotel. The transfer time can vary from 20 minutes to an hour, depending on your accommodation's location. The average taxi fare from the airport to Naama Bay is approximately 150-200 Egyptian Pounds (EGP), but it's wise to agree on the price before the journey begins.

Weather and best time to visit Sharm El-Sheikh

The best time to visit Sharm El-Sheikh depends on your expectations, as the region offers year-round sunshine.

• Spring (March to May) is warm with average temperatures between 20°C and 30°C, ideal for diving and outdoor activities.

• Summer (June to August) sees higher temperatures, ranging from 25°C to 35°C or higher, perfect for those who enjoy hot weather and water activities.

• Autumn (September to November) offers a cooler climate, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C, and is less crowded.

• Winter (December to February) has mild temperatures between 15°C and 25°C, providing a pleasant escape from the cold UK winter.

The high season coincides with the UK winter months, while the low season is during the hot summer months.

Practical information for Sharm El Sheikh holidays

• Spoken Languages: Arabic is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and dive centres.

• Local Habits and Customs: Dress modestly when away from the beach or poolside. It's customary to tip for services, such as in restaurants and taxis, often around 10%.

• Tips: Bargaining is common in markets. Drinking tap water is not recommended; bottled water is widely available.

• Security: Sharm El Sheikh is generally considered safe for tourists, but it's wise to take usual travel precautions.

• Health: No specific vaccinations are required, but it's recommended to check with your GP before travelling. Travel insurance that covers medical treatment is advised.

• Papers and Visa: UK passport holders can get a visa on arrival for stays up to 30 days or apply in advance through the Egyptian Consulate.

• Currency: The Egyptian Pound (EGP) is the currency. Cash is preferred in many places, though credit cards are accepted in hotels and resorts.

• Getting Around: Taxis and minibuses are the main forms of transport; agree on the fare before setting off.

• Electricity/Plugs: The standard voltage is 220 V, with European-style two-pin sockets. UK visitors will need an adaptor.

With this practical information, UK holidaymakers can prepare for an enjoyable and hassle-free visit to Sharm El-Sheikh, known for its sunny climate, beautiful beaches, and world-class diving.

Best things to do in Sharm El-Sheikh

Sharm El-Sheikh is a top destination on the Sinai Peninsula, known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters and vibrant nightlife. Here's the best of what Sharm El-Sheikh holidays have to offer:

The best districts

• Naama Bay: The heart of Sharm El-Sheikh’s tourist district, with resorts, restaurants and shops. It’s a lively area, perfect for evening strolls and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere.

• Old Market (Sharm El-Maya): A bustling market area where you can experience local Egyptian life, shop for souvenirs and try traditional cuisine.

Historical monuments

• Al Mustafa Mosque: This impressive piece of architecture is the largest mosque in Sharm El-Sheikh. Its stunning design and intricate details are a must-see.

• Coptic Church: Known for its beautiful murals and peaceful atmosphere, this church – aka The Heavenly Cathedral – provides a glimpse into Egypt's Christian heritage and is worth a browse, both inside and out.

Day trips in the area

• Mount Sinai: A day trip to Mount Sinai, now known as Jebel Musa, offers a chance to hike to where Moses is said to have received the Ten Commandments. The sunrise view from the summit is spectacular.

• Saint Catherine's Monastery: Located at the foot of Mount Sinai, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the oldest working monasteries in the world. It houses an incredible collection of ancient manuscripts and icons.

• Dahab: Just over 1 hour north of Sharm El-Sheikh, Dahab is world-renowned for its windsurfing, kitesurfing and diving. The deep, clear waters are home to coral reefs just offshore with unique underwater landscapes, and there are several dive schools.

Activities for families in Sharm El-Sheikh

Sharm El-Sheikh is a fantastic destination for families, offering a variety of activities for all ages.

• Water parks: Parks such as the Pickalbatros Aqua Blu Resort and Coral Sea Waterworld feature numerous slides, wave pools and swimming areas, providing hours of fun for kids and adults alike.

• Beaches: Family-friendly beaches with calm waters and plenty of amenities make it easy to enjoy a day by the sea. Many resorts offer private beach access with activities such as snorkelling and paddleboarding.

• Boat trips: Excursions aboard glass-bottom boats are perfect for exploring the underwater world without getting wet. Most tours depart from Naama Bay.

• Desert safaris: Family-friendly desert safaris include camel rides, quad biking and dinner under the stars in a Bedouin-style camp.

Wellness in Sharm El-Sheikh

• Spas and thermal baths: Many of Sharm El-Sheikh's top resorts boast luxurious spas. The Four Seasons Resort and Rixos Premium Seagate are particularly renowned for their extensive menus of treatments and massages.

• Yoga and meditation centres: For those seeking inner peace, the Omkara Yoga School offers yoga and meditation classes on the coast against the serene backdrop of the Red Sea.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Scuba diving and snorkelling: The Red Sea is one of the world's top diving destinations, with stunning coral reefs and abundant marine life. Sites like the SS Thistlegorm wreck and the Ras Muhammad National Park are must-visits for divers.

• Desert safaris: Explore the desert by thrilling 4WD or quad bike, with camel rides and dinner under the stars in a mock Bedouin village.

• Boat trips: Take a boat trip to one of the nearby islands or Ras Muhammad for a day of snorkelling, sunbathing and swimming in crystal-clear waters. Dolphin-watching tours are also popular and offer a chance to see these playful creatures in their natural habitat.

• Paragliding: For an adrenaline rush and stunning aerial views of Sharm El-Sheikh, try paragliding over the Red Sea.

• Fishing: Deep-sea fishing trips offer a chance to catch some of the Red Sea's impressive fish species. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, these trips are a fun way to spend a day on the water.

• Horse and camel-riding: Explore the inland and coastal areas on horseback or camel. Guided tours are available for all levels of riders and offer a different perspective of Sharm El-Sheikh's stunning landscapes.

• Hiking: The nearby Sinai mountains offer challenging hikes with rewarding views. Guided treks can be arranged, allowing you to explore the rugged terrain safely while learning about the area's geology and history.

The best beaches in Sharm El-Sheikh

Sharm El Sheikh is a paradise for beach lovers, offering an array of sandy retreats ranging from bustling public spots to serene private coves.

• Public Beaches: Naama Bay is the heart of Sharm El Sheikh's beach scene, with a lively promenade, clear waters, and ample facilities for a comfortable day out. It’s free to access, although some sections are owned by hotels.

• Private Beaches with Charges: For a more exclusive experience, beaches like those at the Royal Albatros Moderna and other luxury resorts offer private access, sunbeds, and high-end facilities for a fee, ensuring a tranquil and upscale beach day.

• Beaches with Sunbeds and Facilities: Terrazzina Beach is a well-known beach club that provides sunbeds, parasols, and a restaurant bar area, creating a chic and convenient beachgoing experience.

• Beaches to Practice Water Sports: The beaches of Shark's Bay are excellent for water sports enthusiasts, offering facilities for jet skiing, windsurfing, and sailing.

• Best Spots for Scuba Diving: Ras Mohammed National Park and the Straits of Tiran are internationally acclaimed diving locations known for their stunning coral reefs and diverse marine life. Many hotels and local agencies offer guided dives and equipment rental for both beginners and experienced divers.

Nearest beaches to Sharm El Sheikh

• Just a short drive away, the beaches of Ras Um Sid feature excellent snorkelling directly from the shore, with a stunning coral reef close to land.

• Dahab, about an hour north of Sharm El Sheikh, is a laid-back destination with beautiful beaches ideal for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and diving.

Whether you're looking to relax on a sunbed, enjoy water sports, or explore the underwater wonders of the Red Sea, Sharm El Sheikh's beaches provide it all. Each beach offers its own unique allure, promising a memorable seaside experience for all who visit.

Local dishes in Sharm El-Sheikh

An exciting part of holidays to Sharm El-Sheikh is trying the rich and diverse range of Egyptian food. Here’s a guide to some of the typical dishes and drinks you must try:

Some typical dishes

• Ful Medames: This popular dish, made from fava beans, garlic and lemon juice, is typically served with bread and is commonly found at breakfast.

• Koshari: A hearty mix of rice, macaroni, lentils and chickpeas, topped with a spicy tomato sauce and crispy fried onions. It’s a super cheap meal and true Egyptian comfort food.

• Molokhia: A traditional green soup made from jute leaves, often flavoured with garlic and coriander, and typically served with rice or bread.

• Taameya: Egyptian falafel made with fava beans instead of chickpeas, flavoured with fresh herbs and spices, and deep-fried to perfection.

Meat dishes

• Kebabs and kofta: Kebabs are grilled skewers of lamb or chicken marinated in aromatic spices; kofta is minced meat, usually lamb or beef, mixed with herbs and spices before grilling.

• Shawarma: Marinated meat, typically lamb or chicken, slow-cooked on a rotisserie and served in pita bread with tahini, garlic sauce, vegetables and pickles.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Sayadeya: This is a classic dish in which white fish is cooked with rice, tomatoes, onions and a mix of spices. It is often served with tahini sauce on the side.

• Gambari: Freshly caught prawns, often grilled or cooked in a spicy tomato sauce. Sharm El-Sheikh’s location on the Red Sea ensures the seafood is incredibly fresh.

Sweets and desserts

• Basbousa: A semolina cake soaked in syrup and often topped with almonds.

• Kunafa: Shredded pastry filled with cheese or cream and nuts, soaked in sweet syrup.

• Baklava: Layers of filo pastry filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup.

• Umm Ali: A warm, comforting bread pudding with coconut, raisins, nuts and cream.

Local drinks

• Karkade: A refreshing tea made from dried hibiscus petals, served hot or cold, with a tart flavour similar to cranberry.

• Fruit juices: Freshly pressed juices are popular drinks in Egypt. Try fresh lemon, lime, guava, pomegranate or sugarcane juice.

• Sahlab: A warm, thick drink made from milk and flavoured with rose water, often topped with nuts and coconut. It’s perfect for cooler evenings.

Local sports events during the Sharm El-Sheikh holidays

Sharm El Sheikh, a premier holiday destination known for its stunning beaches and vibrant marine life, also offers a variety of sports activities catering to enthusiasts and spectators alike.

• Stadiums or Arenas: While Sharm El Sheikh is more renowned for its water sports and outdoor activities than traditional stadium sports, local hotels and resorts often host sports events and tournaments, especially beach volleyball and football, where guests can participate or watch.

• Where to Go to Watch a Match: Many resorts and beach bars in Sharm El Sheikh broadcast international sports matches, particularly football, creating a lively atmosphere where you can enjoy the game with a view of the Red Sea.

Sports facilities for travellers in Sharm El Sheikh

Sharm El Sheikh caters to active travellers with a plethora of sports facilities:

• Swimming-Pools: Virtually every hotel and resort in Sharm El Sheikh boasts one or several swimming pools, ranging from relaxing to Olympic-sized for serious swimmers.

• Yoga, Fitness, Dancing, Tennis: Top-tier resorts offer fitness centres, yoga classes on the beach, dance lessons, and tennis courts, allowing guests to keep up with their fitness routine in a picturesque setting.

Cycling in Sharm El Sheikh

While the desert landscape and hot climate may challenge cycling enthusiasts, early morning rides can be a delight:

• Bike Rental: Several hotels and local shops offer bike rental services, allowing you to explore the area at your own pace.

• Popular Cycling Routes: Cycling along the Naama Bay promenade in the early hours or venturing into the Sinai Desert for a more challenging ride are popular options among visitors.

Hiking around Sharm El Sheikh

The Sinai Peninsula offers some spectacular hiking opportunities:

• Hiking: Trails in the Sinai Mountains, including the trek to the summit of Mount Sinai, offer breathtaking views, especially at sunrise. Guided tours are available for these historic and scenic routes.

Water sports in Sharm El Sheikh

Sharm El Sheikh is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts:

• Water Sports: The area is world-famous for its snorkelling and scuba diving, with vibrant coral reefs just offshore. Other water sports like windsurfing, kite surfing, and paddleboarding are also widely available.

Golf courses in Sharm El Sheikh

For golf enthusiasts, Sharm El Sheikh does not disappoint:

• Golf Courses: The city is home to several stunning golf courses, such as the Sharm El Sheikh Golf Resort, which offer beautiful desert landscapes, challenging holes, and top-notch facilities.

A holiday in Sharm El Sheikh provides a unique blend of relaxation and adventure, with its wide range of sports and outdoor activities catering to all interests and skill levels against the backdrop of the Red Sea and Sinai Mountains.

Sharm El Sheikh, a sun-soaked destination on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, is renowned for its stunning coral reefs, vibrant nightlife, and luxurious resorts. While it may not follow the traditional calendar of seasonal events found in colder climates, it offers a unique array of festivities and celebrations that cater to its diverse international visitors and local traditions.

Seasonal events during Sharm El Sheikh holidays

• New Year: Sharm El Sheikh rings in the New Year with extravagant parties and fireworks displays at many of the hotels and resorts along the beachfront, offering a warm, festive celebration under the stars.

• Christmas Shopping & Markets: While traditional Christmas markets are not a staple due to the warm climate and cultural differences, hotels and resorts often host special shopping events and festive decorations to create a holiday atmosphere for international guests.

• Easter: Celebrated by the local Christian community and international visitors, you'll find special brunches and events at resorts catering to those observing the holiday.

• Gay Events: The city is known for its welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, though specific LGBTQ+ events are more low-key compared to larger international cities.

• Carnival: Not traditionally celebrated in Sharm El Sheikh, but some resorts may organise themed parties and events, especially for international guests looking for a taste of home.

Festivals in Sharm El Sheikh

Sharm El Sheikh's festival calendar highlights its status as a premier tourist destination, with events focusing on music, culture, and the underwater world.

• International Shopping & Tourism Festival: Held annually, this festival attracts visitors with special offers, entertainment, and cultural exhibitions, promoting shopping and tourism in Sharm El Sheikh.

• Sharm El Sheikh Asian Film Festival: A celebration of Asian cinema, bringing together filmmakers and fans to enjoy screenings and discussions.

• Sharm El Sheikh International Diving Festival: Divers from around the world gather to explore the region's renowned dive sites, with special events, competitions, and conservation activities.

• Sharm El-Sheikh Camel Festival: A unique cultural event showcasing camel races, beauty contests, and Bedouin traditions.

• Egyptian International Yoga Festival: Hosted in Sharm El Sheikh, this festival brings together yoga enthusiasts for workshops, sessions, and wellness activities in a serene setting.

• Sinai Liberation Day: Celebrated on April 25th, marking the final withdrawal of Israeli troops from Sinai in 1982, with various local festivities and national pride events.

These events and festivals offer a glimpse into the vibrant cultural tapestry of Sharm El Sheikh, providing visitors with opportunities to celebrate, explore, and engage with both the local community and fellow travelers from around the globe.