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Hurghada
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🇪🇬 Egypt

Hurghada

Red Sea Riviera's vibrant underwater paradise — Hurghada, Egypt's premier Red Sea resort town, beckons with its sun-drenched beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs. It's a hub for water sports, relaxation, and exploring the underwater wonders of the Red Sea.

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  • 📍Top places to visit: Giftun Island National Park, Hurghada Marina Boulevard, El Dahar (Old Town)
  • 🍽️What to eat: Koshary, Mahshi, Ful Medames
  • 🗓️Best time to visit: The best time to visit is from September to May when the weather is warm and…

Good to know

Best time to visit
The best time to visit is from September to May when the weather is warm and pleasant, avoiding the intense summer heat.
Getting around
Taxis are readily available and affordable, while local minibuses offer a budget-friendly option for getting around the main tourist areas.
Currency
Egyptian Pound (EGP) - It's wise to carry small denominations for taxis and local markets.
Language
Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and shops.
Safety
Hurghada is generally a safe tourist destination; however, it's always advisable to be aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying excessive wealth.
Daily budget
Budget: $40-70, Midrange: $70-150 per day
💶 Travel money in HurghadaCurrency, cards vs cash, costs & tipping in Hurghada
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Top places to visit

1Park

Giftun Island National Park

Explore pristine beaches and snorkel vibrant coral gardens teeming with marine life on this popular island escape.

2Shopping

Hurghada Marina Boulevard

A modern waterfront promenade featuring upscale boutiques, diverse restaurants, and lively cafes, perfect for an evening stroll.

3Market

El Dahar (Old Town)

Experience the authentic local life, browse bustling souks, and find traditional Egyptian crafts and goods.

4Landmark

Al Mina Mosque

Admire the beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere of this prominent mosque located near the fishing harbor.

5Activity

Submarine Tour

Descend into the Red Sea depths without getting wet, offering incredible views of coral reefs and fish from a comfortable cabin.

6Museum

Hurghada Museum

Discover the rich history and culture of Egypt through a collection of ancient artifacts and modern exhibits.

7Shopping

Senzo Mall

A large, modern shopping center offering a wide range of international and local brands, entertainment, and dining options.

8Activity

Desert Safari

Embark on an exhilarating jeep or quad bike adventure through the Eastern Desert, often including a Bedouin village visit.

9Beach

Orange Bay Island

A picturesque island known for its shallow turquoise waters and relaxed vibe, ideal for swimming and sunbathing.

10Park

Sindbad Aqua Park

Enjoy thrilling water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers for a fun-filled day for families and adventure seekers.

11Restaurant

The Heaven Restaurant

Savor delicious seafood and international cuisine with stunning views overlooking the Red Sea.

12Park

Makadi Water World

One of the largest water parks in the region, offering a vast array of slides and pools for all ages.

13Beach

Starfish Beach

A popular local beach offering a quieter atmosphere and good opportunities for snorkeling near the shore.

14Park

Hurgada Grand Aquarium

Explore diverse marine life from the Red Sea and other ecosystems in a well-maintained aquarium setting.

15Nightlife

New Marina

Experience Hurghada's nightlife with a variety of bars, clubs, and lounges offering music and entertainment.

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Things to do

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

Discover the breathtaking underwater world of the Red Sea, renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.

Glass-Bottom Boat Tour

Enjoy fantastic views of the coral reefs and fish without getting wet, perfect for families and non-swimmers.

Quad Biking in the Desert

Experience an adrenaline rush as you ride ATVs across the scenic desert landscape surrounding Hurghada.

Kite Surfing and Windsurfing

Take advantage of the consistent winds and clear waters for thrilling water sports.

Dolphin Watching Trip

Embark on a boat excursion to witness playful pods of dolphins in their natural habitat.

Visit a Bedouin Village

Gain insight into the traditional lifestyle of the desert's indigenous people, often including a camel ride and dinner.

Where to stay

El Mamsha (Tourist Promenade)

Suits tourists seeking a lively atmosphere with numerous restaurants, cafes, shops, and easy beach access.

Hurghada Marina

Ideal for those looking for upscale dining, modern amenities, and a chic waterfront experience.

Dahar (Old Town)

Best for budget travelers and culture enthusiasts wanting to experience authentic local life and traditional markets.

Sakkala

A good option for a mix of budget-friendly accommodations, local eateries, and proximity to the city center.

What to eat

Koshary

A popular Egyptian street food dish made with rice, lentils, chickpeas, and a tomato sauce, often topped with fried onions.

Mahshi

Vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or cabbage stuffed with a mixture of rice, herbs, and spices, then simmered in tomato sauce.

Ful Medames

Slow-cooked fava beans seasoned with cumin, lemon juice, and olive oil, a staple for breakfast or light meals.

Tagine

A slow-cooked stew, usually made with meat or vegetables, flavored with aromatic spices and served in a distinctive conical pot.

Grilled Fish (Samak Mashwi)

Freshly caught Red Sea fish grilled to perfection, often served with tahini and local bread.

Molokhia

A green soup made from finely chopped jute leaves, often served with chicken or rabbit and rice.

Day trips

Luxor

Visit the Karnak Temple Complex and Valley of the Kings on a day trip (approx. 4-5 hours drive).

Cairo

Explore the Pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum, typically done via a short flight (approx. 1 hour flight).

Pharaonic Island (Geziret el Faroun)

Discover ancient ruins and enjoy snorkeling at this historical island off the coast of Taba (closer to Nuweiba, often a longer excursion).

Insider tips

  • Always negotiate taxi fares before starting your journey.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of bottled water.
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Carry sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for sun protection.
  • Learn a few basic Arabic phrases; it's appreciated by locals.
  • Be aware of local customs and traditions.

Traveler reviews

4.8
★★★★★
5 traveler reviews
S
Sarah K.
United Kingdom
★★★★★
last month

Absolutely loved Hurghada! The Red Sea is crystal clear and perfect for snorkeling. We saw so many colorful fish. The food at our hotel was also delicious, especially the fresh seafood.

J
Javier M.
Spain
★★★★★
in April

Hurghada was a fantastic escape. The boat trip to Giftun Island was a highlight – pristine beaches and amazing snorkeling. We also enjoyed a delicious koshary from a local street vendor. Highly recommend!

A
Anya P.
Russia
★★★★☆
two months ago

A good place for a relaxing beach holiday. The water sports were fun, and the resort offered great amenities. Could have used a bit more authentic Egyptian culture outside the tourist areas, but overall a pleasant stay.

K
Kenji T.
Japan
★★★★★
last year

Hurghada exceeded expectations. The diving was world-class, with vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life. Evenings were spent enjoying the lively atmosphere and sampling local mezze. A truly memorable trip.

C
Chloé D.
France
★★★★★
last week

What a gem! The sunshine was constant, and the sea was divine for swimming. We took a day trip to explore some ancient ruins nearby, which was fascinating. The fresh mango juice was a daily treat!

Good to know — FAQ

What is Hurghada most famous for?
Hurghada is primarily famous for its stunning Red Sea beaches, exceptional diving and snorkeling opportunities with vibrant coral reefs, and lively resort atmosphere. It's a premier destination for water sports and underwater exploration.
Is Hurghada suitable for families?
Yes, Hurghada is very family-friendly. Many resorts offer kids' clubs, pools, and activities. Water parks like Sindbad Aqua Park and boat trips are also popular with children.
What currency should I use in Hurghada?
The official currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). While many tourist establishments accept Euros or US Dollars, it's best to use EGP for local markets, taxis, and smaller purchases to get better rates.
Is it safe to swim in the Red Sea?
Swimming and water activities in designated areas are generally safe. However, it's important to be aware of local advice regarding currents and marine life, and always swim in areas supervised by lifeguards.

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