10 Things to Do in Sharm El Sheikh

You’re planning a trip to Sharm El Sheikh, but you’re probably wondering what’s actually worth your time and money. This Red Sea resort town offers more than just expensive beach clubs and tourist traps – if you know where to look. From world-class diving sites that won’t break the bank to authentic cultural experiences away from the crowds, there are plenty of budget-friendly adventures waiting. Here’s what locals and seasoned travelers really recommend.

Dive the SS Thistlegorm Wreck in the Red Sea

One of the world’s most legendary wreck dives awaits you just 40 kilometers from Sharm El Sheikh. The SS Thistlegorm, a British WWII cargo ship sunk by German bombers in 1941, offers an incredible underwater museum experience.

You’ll explore intact military cargo including motorcycles, trucks, and even locomotives scattered throughout accessible cargo holds.

The wreck sits 15-32 meters deep, requiring Advanced Open Water certification and at least 20 logged dives. Strong currents make this challenging for beginners, but experienced divers get up to 45 minutes exploring the ship’s fascinating interior. The site now thrives as an artificial reef teeming with vibrant corals, barracudas, and marine life.

You can reach the site via day trips from Sharm El Sheikh, though expect an 8-hour round trip by boat. Liveaboard options offer better value and more dive time at this historically significant site.

Explore the Coral Gardens at Ras Mohammed National Park

Where else can you witness 210 coral species thriving in crystal-clear waters just 12 kilometers from your hotel? Ras Mohammed National Park’s coral gardens offer exceptional diving and snorkeling with up to 90% live coral cover—three times higher than reefs outside the reserve.

You’ll encounter over 1,000 fish species, green turtles, dolphins, and sharks across world-famous sites like Shark Reef and Yolanda Reef. The park’s fringing reefs feature dramatic coral walls and drop-offs suitable for all skill levels.

Since only 15% of this 480 km² reserve is open to visitors, you’re guaranteed pristine conditions. Book through local operators for budget-friendly day trips that include transportation and equipment. The controlled access ensures you’ll experience some of the Red Sea’s most vibrant underwater landscapes. The park’s conservation success earned it the prestigious IUCN Green List certification in 2018, recognizing it as one of only 10 globally effective marine ecosystem management sites.

Wander Through Sharm’s Old Market for Local Crafts and Spices

Step into Sharm’s Old Market and you’ll find yourself maneuvering a maze of narrow alleyways where the scent of cumin and cinnamon mingles with calls from enthusiastic vendors. This 40-year-old bazaar offers authentic Egyptian culture through handcrafted jewelry, embroidered textiles, and aromatic spices.

Don’t accept the first price—haggling can slash costs to a quarter of the asking price. Exchange money for Egyptian pounds beforehand to avoid unfavorable rates. Visit after sunset when temperatures cool and the atmosphere intensifies, but avoid peak weekends for a more relaxed experience.

Allocate 2-4 hours to explore thoroughly. Some shops close during prayer times, so plan accordingly. The market’s location adjacent to the Al Sahaba Mosque creates a stunning visual backdrop as you navigate the bustling stalls. Grab sweet mint tea at outdoor cafés to rest and observe local life between shopping sessions.

Take a Desert Safari With Quad Biking Through Sinai’s Landscape

After browsing the market’s treasures, you’ll crave adventure beyond Sharm’s bustling streets. Desert quad biking safaris offer the perfect escape into Sinai’s dramatic landscape. You don’t need experience – operators provide helmets, safety briefings, and guides to navigate the dunes and canyons safely.

Most tours last 2-5 hours and include hotel pickup, making logistics simple. You’ll stop at Bedouin villages for traditional tea and cultural insights, plus plenty of photo opportunities capturing mountain vistas and desert contrasts. Early morning tours offer cooler temperatures and stunning sunrise views.

Prices range from $17 to over $300 depending on duration and extras like camel rides. Pack sun protection, comfortable shoes, and layers for temperature changes. Book ahead during peak season, and enjoy flexible cancellation policies up to 24 hours. Many operators also offer private 3-hour morning safaris that combine quad biking with camel rides for a comprehensive desert experience.

Watch the Sunset From Farsha Café on Farsha Mountain

One of Sharm El Sheikh’s most magical experiences awaits you at Farsha Café, perched dramatically on Farsha Mountain’s cliffside overlooking the Red Sea. You’ll want to arrive at least an hour before sunset to snag premium seating—trust us, the wait times can stretch 1-3 hours during peak hours.

The café transforms as daylight fades, with hundreds of lanterns creating an enchanting Arabian fairytale atmosphere. Live traditional music enhances the romantic ambiance while you sip Egyptian mint tea or Arabic coffee.

The sunset spectacle typically occurs between 5:30-7:00 PM, painting the Red Sea in golden hues. This Bedouin-style hotel has been welcoming visitors since 2010, originally serving as a traditional tea house before evolving into one of the region’s most photographed destinations.

Make reservations beforehand, bring Egyptian pounds (though they accept credit cards), and budget around €10 for private transport from Naama Bay. It’s reasonably priced for such stunning views.

Snorkel at White Island’s Crystal-Clear Waters

While Farsha Café offers spectacular views above the Red Sea, White Island lets you explore the magic beneath its crystal-clear waters. You’ll reach this pristine snorkeling spot via a one-hour boat ride from Sharm El Sheikh marina, with tours starting around $45.

The warm, calm waters provide perfect visibility for spotting vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, clownfish, and parrotfish. Professional guides accompany you, making it beginner-friendly, while all snorkeling gear is included.

Most tours combine White Island with Ras Mohammed National Park stops, giving you multiple reef experiences. Tours are conducted by small boat to ensure intimate group sizes and personalized attention.

You’ll enjoy onboard lunch, unlimited drinks, and comfortable facilities during your full-day adventure. The island’s sandy beaches offer perfect relaxation spots between snorkeling sessions, creating an ideal escape from crowded resort areas.

Experience Bedouin Culture at a Traditional Desert Camp

Just an hour’s drive from Sharm El Sheikh’s bustling resorts, you’ll discover authentic Bedouin culture at traditional desert camps where hospitality traditions have remained unchanged for generations.

Most evening tours ($35-$60) include hotel transfers and start around 16:30-17:00. You’ll be welcomed with Arabic coffee, tea, and dates before enjoying camel rides or ATV adventures.

Dinner’s served buffet-style in Bedouin tents around 18:30, featuring grilled meats, rice, and traditional Egyptian dishes.

After sunset, you’ll watch enthralling cultural shows including Tanoura dances, belly dancing, and fire performances. The evening concludes with stargazing under clear desert skies.

Many operators offer Tuesday and Friday departures, and you can cancel free up to 24 hours in advance. Tours are guided in multiple languages including English, German, Italian, Polish, and Russian to accommodate international visitors. Kids under five typically go free.

Spot Dolphins on a Marine Wildlife Tour

Three distinct ways let you encounter dolphins around Sharm El Sheikh, each offering different experiences and price points. You can watch captive dolphins perform at Dolphina Park’s 60-minute shows, which include post-show interactions where you’ll touch and engage with the animals. Swimming programs offer 15-30 minute sessions where you’ll hug, play, and photograph dolphins under professional supervision.

For wild dolphin encounters, book boat tours to Dolphin House starting from $42. These 3-6 hour Red Sea excursions let you observe dolphins in their natural habitat while accessing pristine coral reefs.

You’ll find luxury yacht trips to Tiran Island that combine dolphin watching with snorkeling stops, plus sunrise tours for ideal viewing conditions. Most packages include hotel transfers and offer 24-hour cancellation policies. The Dolphina Dolphinarium features three smart dolphins that perform in a state-of-the-art theater with professional care and supervision.

Enjoy the Nightlife Scene at SOHO Square

After exploring the Red Sea’s marine life, you’ll find Sharm El Sheikh’s entertainment shifts to land at SOHO Square, the resort town’s premier nightlife destination. The centerpiece Dancing Fountain delivers synchronized water, light, and music shows every 30 minutes from sunset until midnight—it’s free entertainment that’s perfect for photos.

You’ll discover diverse nightlife options, from Pangaea nightclub for dancing to Queen Vic’s authentic British pub atmosphere. Fontana Bar offers stylish cocktails with open-air views, while live music lounges feature nightly performances.

Beyond nightlife, the square accommodates families with ice skating, bowling, and a Kids Zone. SOHO Square features aesthetic avenues lined with shops and restaurants, creating perfect opportunities for evening strolls and photography between entertainment venues. While food and drinks cost more than local spots, the combination of dining, entertainment, and that spectacular fountain show creates memorable evenings worth the splurge.

Take a Day Trip to Saint Catherine’s Monastery

One of Egypt’s most sacred destinations awaits just three hours northwest of Sharm El Sheikh—Saint Catherine’s Monastery, the world’s oldest continuously operating Christian monastery. Built in 565 CE at Mount Sinai‘s foot, this UNESCO World Heritage site houses the legendary burning bush where Moses encountered God.

You’ll find affordable day tours starting around $40-55, often combined with sunrise hikes up Mount Sinai. The 220-kilometer journey takes you through stunning desert landscapes to this remarkable site sacred to Christianity, Islam, and Judaism alike.

Don’t miss the Byzantine Basilica, Moses’s Well, and the exceptional icon museum showcasing centuries-old religious art. The monastery also preserves the second-largest collection of ancient manuscripts and codices in the world, rivaled only by the Vatican Library. Book tours with early morning departures to maximize your time exploring this extraordinary monastery that’s survived intact for nearly 1,500 years.

The Sum Up

You’ve got incredible options in Sharm El Sheikh, whether you’re working with a tight budget or ready to splurge. Mix free activities like wandering the Old Market with affordable adventures like snorkeling at Ras Mohammed. Book desert safaris and diving trips through local operators for better deals. Don’t miss the sunset at Farsha Café – it’s cheap but unforgettable. Plan ahead, compare prices, and you’ll experience this Red Sea paradise without breaking the bank.