Hurghada Travel Guide
City Resort city on the Red Sea in Egypt
Scuba divers and snorkelers come to Hurghada for Red Sea coral, liveaboard boats and resort beaches; desert safaris and Bedouin camps fill the days off the water.
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Why Visit Hurghada? #
Set along Egypt’s Red Sea coast, Hurghada is a hub for diving, snorkeling and seaside relaxation. The city’s coral reefs and dive sites make it popular with underwater enthusiasts, and day trips to Giftun Island deliver white sand beaches and clear waters. Hurghada also offers marina promenades and desert safaris for those who want to combine reef adventures with Bedouin-style excursions and seafood-focused cuisine.
Who's Hurghada For?
Hurghada is a Red Sea gateway for diving, snorkeling and windsurfing, with easy access to coral reefs and daily boat trips to Giftun Island. Dive schools and liveaboards cater to beginners and experienced divers alike.
The resort strip and nearby Sahl Hasheesh offer all-inclusive and high-end resorts with private beaches, spa services and water-sport packages. Upscale properties provide villa-style stays and concierge diving excursions.
Hurghada’s nightlife centers on the resort hotels and Marina Boulevard-bars, beach clubs and seasonal open-air parties keep evenings lively, especially during winter tourist season.
Many beachfront resorts offer family-friendly pools, kids’ clubs and easy shallow-water snorkeling. Boat trips and supervised water activities make Hurghada a straightforward beach destination for families seeking sun and sea.
Top Things to Do in Hurghada
All Attractions ›
- Giftun Islands - Day trips from Hurghada to coral reefs, snorkeling and white-sand beaches on Giftun.
- Hurghada Marina - Harbourfront promenade with restaurants, cafés and lively evening atmosphere beside luxury yachts.
- El Dahar (Old Town) - Traditional souk winding streets where locals shop spices, textiles and authentic street food.
- Hurghada Grand Aquarium - Large aquarium showcasing Red Sea species, walk-through tunnels and interactive family exhibits.
- Hurghada Fish Market - Early-morning market where fishermen sell catch; nearby restaurants will grill your purchase.
- Sindbad Submarine - Glass-window submarine cruises let you view coral gardens without getting wet, popular with families.
- Senzo Mall - Local shopping center with Egyptian eateries, cinema and periodic cultural events for residents.
- Mahmya Beach (Giftun) - Protected beach on Giftun Island with clear shallow waters ideal for relaxing snorkels.
- El Gouna - Planned resort town with lagoons, cafés, kitesurfing and a relaxed island-like atmosphere.
- Sahl Hasheesh - Luxury resort strip south of Hurghada, excellent swimming, diving and palm-lined boulevards.
- Soma Bay - World-class kitesurfing and long sandy beaches, also several high-end resorts and spas.
- Makadi Bay - Family-friendly resort area with coral bays, glass-bottom boat trips and quieter beaches.
- Safaga - Working port town offering diving departures, windsurfing and authentic Egyptian coastal life.
Where to Go in Hurghada #
Hurghada Marina
The modern tourist hub with promenades, cafés and evening entertainment. It’s the main departure point for diving and boat trips, and where most visitors arrange day excursions. Evenings here are social, with restaurants facing the water.
Top Spots
- Hurghada Marina - New waterfront development with restaurants and bars.
- Boat tours to Giftun - Daily trips depart for snorkeling and island beaches.
- Marina promenade - Evening strolls and cafes with sea views.
El Dahar (Old Town)
Hurghada’s original neighbourhood, where markets, bakeries and everyday life prevail. It’s less polished than the resort strip but offers authentic shopping, cheaper meals and a sense of local daily rhythm - handy if you want to feel the city beyond resorts.
Top Spots
- El Dahar Market (Souk) - Traditional market selling spices, textiles and souvenirs.
- Local eateries - Family-run restaurants serving Egyptian classics.
- City Mosque - Local community landmark in the older quarter.
Sakkala Strip
A tourist-facing stretch of hotels, restaurants and nightlife between the old town and the newer marina. Sakkala is practical for evening dining, mid-range hotels and arranging excursions; expect lots of activity after sunset.
Top Spots
- Sheraton Road restaurants - A long row of international and seafood restaurants.
- Local bars - Popular evening spots with live music and shisha.
- Small shopping arcades - Tourist-friendly stalls and stores.
Resort Coast
A stretch of resort complexes and private beaches geared to sun-worshippers and diving tourists. Big hotels, organized trips and relaxed beach days define the zone - choose this area for easy access to dive operators and staffed beachfront amenities.
Top Spots
- Hurghada Grand Aquarium - Marine displays and family-friendly exhibits.
- Dolphin House trips - Popular boat excursions to snorkel with dolphins.
- Private beach resorts - All-inclusive properties with watersports.
Plan Your Visit to Hurghada #
Best Time to Visit Hurghada #
Visit Hurghada from October through April when coastal temperatures are comfortable, skies are mostly clear and the Red Sea offers excellent diving visibility. Summers are intensely hot and humid, so choose winter or spring for sightseeing, snorkeling and wind sports.
Best Time to Visit Hurghada #
Subtropical climate with very hot summers (peaking in August) and mild winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 11°C to 35°C. Very dry conditions with minimal rainfall with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 21°C and lows of 11°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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February
February is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 12°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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March
March is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 14°C. Almost no rain and clear sunny skies.
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April
April is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 18°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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May
May is warm with highs of 31°C and lows of 21°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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June
June is hot, feeling like 29°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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July
July is hot, feeling like 30°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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August
August is the hottest month, feeling like 31°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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September
September is hot, feeling like 29°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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October
October is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 21°C. Almost no rain and clear sunny skies.
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November
November is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 16°C. Almost no rain and clear sunny skies.
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December
December is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 13°C. Almost no rain and clear sunny skies.
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How to Get to Hurghada
Hurghada is primarily accessed by air via Hurghada International Airport (HRG); it is a short drive from the town's resort and marina districts. There is no direct passenger rail service to the city, so long-distance ground travel is by intercity bus or by road from nearby railheads (Luxor/Qena).
Hurghada International Airport (HRG): The airport is about 5-10 km from the central hotel and marina areas; transfers into town take roughly 15-30 minutes depending on traffic. Taxis are available outside arrivals (expect roughly EGP 150-300 for a private taxi to central Hurghada); many hotels offer meet-and-greet transfers (confirm price with your hotel). Shared airport minibuses and private shuttle services are common and usually cheaper than private taxis (shared shuttles typically cost less, check your operator for exact fares).
(Other regional airports) Marsa Alam (RMF): Marsa Alam is the next major Red Sea airport to the south and can be used if you have a connecting transfer to Hurghada. Road transfers from Marsa Alam to Hurghada take several hours (typically 3-4+ hours) and are usually arranged as private shuttle or bus services - times and prices vary widely by operator, so book transfers in advance.
Train: There is no direct national rail service to Hurghada. The nearest major railway stations are Luxor and Qena (serviced from Cairo and other Egyptian cities). From Luxor or Qena you must continue to Hurghada by road - shared minibuses or private transfers take about 3-4 hours from Luxor to Hurghada depending on route and stops.
Bus: Long-distance bus companies such as Go Bus and Super Jet run regular routes to Hurghada (Cairo-Hurghada is the main trunk). Buses arrive at Hurghada Bus Station or drop off at central points near the hotel districts; typical travel time from Cairo is about 6-7 hours. Fares depend on company and class but expect roughly EGP 200-400 for a one-way ticket on modern AC coaches (book online or at company offices).
How to Get Around Hurghada
Hurghada is easiest to navigate by taxi or prebooked transfer for convenience; shared minibuses are the cheapest option for short hops. For exploring beyond the resort strip, renting a car or using organized tours is often the most practical choice.
- Taxis (EGP 100-300) - Taxis are the most convenient way to get around Hurghada - metered taxis are uncommon, so agree a price before you ride. Airport taxis and private taxis will get you door-to-door and are fastest for reaching scattered resorts; expect higher fares for hotel-to-hotel or seaside transfers, and always confirm the price in EGP before you depart.
- Shared minibuses / microbuses (EGP 5-50) - Shared minibuses (collective taxis) connect Hurghada with nearby towns and are the cheapest way to travel short-to-medium distances. They can be crowded and run on flexible schedules - ask locals or your hotel for the nearest departure point and expected fare. Good option if you're on a budget and comfortable with less predictable timing.
- Intercity buses (Go Bus, Super Jet) (EGP 200-400) - Modern AC coaches run between Hurghada and major cities like Cairo, Luxor and Alexandria; companies include Go Bus and Super Jet. Buses are comfortable and relatively reliable for overnight or daytime long-distance travel - book in advance for peak seasons and check departure points (Hurghada Bus Station or company offices).
- Car rental (EGP 600+/day (varies)) - Renting a car gives you flexibility to explore the Red Sea coast and nearby desert attractions; international and local agencies operate in town and at the airport. Driving in Hurghada is straightforward around resort areas but can be hectic in city traffic - ensure you have valid documentation and a clear insurance policy, and beware of unmarked speedchecks on desert roads.
- Hotel shuttles & private transfers (EGP 100-300) - Many hotels and dive operators offer scheduled shuttles or private transfers to/from the airport, nearby dive sites and shopping areas. These are pricier than public minibuses but reliable and convenient, especially if you travel with luggage or dive gear - always confirm pickup points and cancellation terms when booking.
- Walking - Walking is pleasant and practical within the compact marina, promenade and many hotel zones - distances between hotels, beaches and restaurants in the main resort area are often short. Outside the central tourist strip, sidewalks can be intermittent and roads are busy, so stick to daylight hours and main pedestrian areas.
Where to Stay in Hurghada #
- Hostel Hurghada (budget guesthouse) - Simple rooms near the promenade
- Budget seaside guesthouses (various) - Basic beachside rooms for short stays
- Desert Rose Resort - Popular mid-range beachfront resort
- Sheraton Miramar Resort El Gouna (nearby) - Resort-style mid-range with pools
- Steigenberger Al Dau Beach Resort - Upscale beachfront resort with full facilities
- Hurghada Marriott Beach Resort - High-end resort with multiple pools
- Desert Rose Resort - Easy access to snorkeling and excursions
- Steigenberger Al Dau Beach Resort - Good base for Red Sea activities
- Desert Rose Resort - Pools, kids' activities, family rooms
- Hurghada Marriott Beach Resort - Family facilities and beachfront access
- Steigenberger Al Dau Beach Resort - Good Wi‑Fi and quiet daytime lounges
- Desert Rose Resort - Comfortable rooms with work-friendly spaces
Where to Eat in Hurghada #
Hurghada is a Red Sea resort town where the food scene orbits beach life: casual grills, seafood shacks and hotel restaurants dominate. The marina and the Corniche are the main dining strips, with freshly grilled fish and Egyptian mezze easy to find.
If you want variety, many hotels offer international buffets, but the most authentic, relaxed meals come from local seafood spots and small cafés serving mezze, salads and simple grilled dishes.
- Hurghada Marina restaurants - Seafood grills and waterfront Egyptian dishes.
- Local fish shacks - Fresh-caught fish, simple grills on the shore.
- El Halaka - Popular local spot for seafood and Egyptian mezze.
- Starfish Restaurant - Seafood and international plates by the sea.
- Al Halaka (Marina area) - Seafood-forward menu, mixed Mediterranean influences.
- Local hotel restaurants - International buffets and themed dining at resorts.
- Local mezze places - Hummus, ful, and vegetable mezze widely available.
- Hotel vegetarian buffets - Resort buffets often include multiple vegetarian options.
- Small cafés along the Corniche - Light salads, flatbreads and meat-free sandwiches.
Breakdown of cuisine types found across Hurghada's restaurants and food venues, based on OpenStreetMap data.
Nightlife in Hurghada #
Hurghada’s nightlife is a tourists-first mix of beach bars, resort clubs and a buzzing marina strip. Sheraton Road and Hurghada Marina concentrate most of the after-dark action, from relaxed seaside lounges to louder nightclubs. Resorts often run their own clubs and late-night entertainment; drink-and-dress norms are generally casual but respectful of local culture. Use taxis or hotel transfers after dark and stick to well-lit tourist areas for safety.
Best Bets
- Hurghada Marina - Seafront promenade with bars, restaurants and evening boat views.
- Sheraton Road - Main nightlife street lined with bars, clubs and beach spots.
- Little Buddha Hurghada - Pan-Asian restaurant and nightclub popular with resort crowds.
- Calypso Club - Club venue for DJs and louder late-night dancing.
- Local beachfront bars and restaurants - Various seaside spots for relaxed cocktails and sunset views.
- Resort clubs and hotel entertainment - Many hotels run evening shows, themed parties and beach events.
Shopping in Hurghada #
Hurghada’s shopping is a mix of resort boutiques, bazaars and modern malls. The Old Market (El Dahar) is where you’ll haggle for souvenirs, spices and silver; the Marina area sells higher-end crafts and beachwear to tourists. For air-conditioned shopping head to Senzo Mall for international brands and cinemas. Bargaining is expected in souks and among street stalls; be polite but firm and start around half the asking price.
Best Bets
- El Dahar (Old Market) - Traditional souk with spices, souvenirs, textiles and bargaining opportunities.
- Hurghada Marina / Marina Boulevard - Seafront boutiques, jewelry stores and upscale tourist-oriented shops.
- Senzo Mall Hurghada - Modern mall with international brands, food court and a cinema complex.
- Sheraton Road shops - Stretch of tourist shops, beachwear stores and souvenir stalls near hotels.
- Local craft stalls and jewelry shops - Independent sellers offering silver, coral jewelry and handmade crafts.
- Excursion outfitters and dive shops - Specialist stores selling snorkel, dive gear and Red Sea souvenirs.
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