A small fishing village turned into a major port and a naval base, Sharm El Sheikh underwent a significant transformation back in the 80s.
What once was a relatively quiet and undeveloped area is now Egypt’s premier beach destination known for its stunning coastline along the Red Sea, vibrant marine life, and luxurious resorts.
Whether you wish to score Arabic lamps at a local bazaar, see animal and human mummies at the Sharm El-Sheikh Museum, or just find a nice beachfront 5-star resort with a postcard-perfect beach, this 1-day travel itinerary has got you covered.
To help you organize your trip, we’ve added a list of the best things to do in Sharm El Sheikh and tips on where to eat and where to stay.
The town's souq (bazaar) area is your first stop in the morning. You will find yourself in a maze of narrow alleys lined with stalls and shops offering everything from textiles, Arabic lamps, jewelry, and souvenirs to tasty Egyptian food delicacies and Arabic coffee. Visit inexpensive eateries and street food stalls and try fresh seafood, cured meats, koftas, and kebabs. The Old Market is definitely a cheaper place than popular shopping destinations like Soho Square and Naama Bay.
This is more of a gift shop than a museum. Sharm Papyrus Museum is the best place in Sharm El Sheikh to buy different kinds of papyrus papers. The friendly owner is always more than happy to explain the history behind papyrus and to demonstrate how it’s made. He will also explain how to distinguish a real papyrus from a fake one. Inside the shop, you will find different designs, writings, and drawings crafted on papyrus that you can purchase.
The main mosque in Sharm El Sheikh, Al Sahaba Mosque is a breathtaking example of contemporary Islamic architecture and was officially opened in 2017. With its two towering minarets reaching 76 metres and multiple domes, the mosque is an architectural masterpiece. It can accommodate more than 3,000 worshippers and has quickly become one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Visitors are drawn not only by its spiritual significance but also by its intricate design and grand presence, making it a must-see for those exploring Sharm El Sheikh’s cultural and religious heritage.
The last stop on your morning walk in Sharm is one of the most beautiful religious structures in the city. Built in 2010, the Heavenly Cathedral is a Coptic church known for its striking architecture. From the outside, visitors can admire the beauty of its twin rectangular towers. Step inside the Heavenly Cathedral to see high ceilings decorated with hand-painted frescoes and paintings by local artists, lovely ornate chandeliers, and stunning stained-glass windows.
Situated on the lower level of the Genena Shopping Mall in Sharm El Sheikh, the King Tut Museum is dedicated to King Tutankhamun. Spread across three rooms, the museum houses about 135 replicas of artifacts ranging from the king's sarcophagus and coffin to a gold death mask and a detailed miniature model of Tahrir Square. Don’t miss the collection of photographs showing the discovery of the pharaoh's tomb. The displayed items are labeled in English and Arabic language.
No visit to Sharm is complete without spending a few hours at the iconic Naama Bay, the so-called downtown area. With its car-free promenade lined with posh resorts and elegant restaurants and a white-sand beach fitted with sun loungers and umbrellas, Naama Bay is definitely the most popular area among tourists. You can explore dive spots, swim in the crystal-clear waters, enjoy views from beachside cafes, or shop for gifts at the nearby souvenir stores.
This is the most famous mosque in Sharm and for a reason. It was built in 2001 when Egyptian businessman Hussein Salem decided to make a donation. Once you step inside the Salam Mosque, you will be blown away by its beauty. The blue and white interior boasts elegant Italian marble and there is a stunning golden Murano chandelier hanging from the nicely decorated ceiling.
Located just a short walk from the mosque, the Sharm El-Sheikh Museum is packed with illuminating exhibits with labels in Arabic and English. The museum houses 5,200 real artifacts ranging from animal and human mummies and hieroglyphs to exquisite statues and a papyrus collection. Check out the coffins of Isetemheb, as well as the charming cat mummies. Plan around 2 hours to explore the entire museum.
Sharm El Sheikh is a year-round destination, with tourists visiting throughout the year. However, the best time to go depends on what you’re looking for in your vacation.
As Egypt’s premier beach getaway, most visitors come to Sharm for its stunning coastline, all-inclusive resorts, and world-class diving. Summers can be extremely hot, with temperatures soaring above 40°C (104°F) in July and August, making it less ideal for outdoor activities.
For milder weather and ideal conditions for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, we recommend visiting in May, early June, or September. During these months, you’ll enjoy pleasant temperatures, warm waters, and fewer crowds compared to peak summer.