Have you ever wondered what it’s like to explore a paradise where the desert meets the sea, and vibrant marine life dances beneath crystal-clear waves? Sharm El Sheikh, perched on the southern tip of Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula, is a treasure trove of breathtaking landscapes, historical richness, and modern attractions. From the bustling allure of Naama Bay to the pristine beauty of Ras Mohammed National Park, here are the top 5 places you absolutely must visit in Sharm El Sheikh. Dive into our guide and discover why this sun-soaked coastal gem continues to captivate the hearts of travelers worldwide.

Naama Bay

Sharm El Sheikh, a gem on the southern tip of Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula, is renowned for its stunning coastal scenery and luxury resorts. One of its most beloved areas is Naama Bay. This natural bay is the heartbeat of Sharm El Sheikh’s tourism scene, boasting a perfect blend of natural beauty, vibrant nightlife, and a variety of activities. Framed by the shimmering waters of the Red Sea and the golden sands of its beaches, Naama Bay has garnered global recognition as a must-visit travel destination suitable for adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike.

Naama Bay: Things to do

Visitors to Naama Bay are spoiled for choice when it comes to activities. The bay is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, offering excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities at the famed coral reefs teeming with marine life. The beachfront promenade is lined with a plethora of restaurants, cafes, and shops, inviting travelers to indulge in local cuisine or pick up unique souvenirs. As the sun sets, Naama Bay transforms into a lively nightlife hub, featuring bars, clubs, and shows that cater to a wide array of tastes. For those seeking tranquility, simply lounging on the pristine beaches and soaking up the spectacular Red Sea views offers a perfect escape.

How to get to Naama Bay, Sharm El Sheikh?

Traveling to Naama Bay is relatively straightforward. Sharm El Sheikh International Airport is the closest major airport, well-connected with direct flights from numerous international destinations. From the airport, it’s a short 15-minute drive to Naama Bay, with taxis readily available to transport visitors to their accommodation. Many hotels also offer shuttle services for their guests. Alternatively, tourists coming from other parts of Egypt can reach Sharm El Sheikh by bus or car, enjoying a scenic drive through the starkly beautiful desert landscape of the Sinai Peninsula.

Ras Mohammed National Park

Ras Mohammed National Park is a mesmerizing travel destination located at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt, near the bustling resort town of Sharm El Sheikh. As Egypt’s first national park, established in 1983, it holds immense ecological value due to its diverse marine life, vibrant coral reefs, and unique desert landscapes. The park spans over 480 square kilometers, offering a rich array of natural wonders that attract tourists from around the globe. Its value as a tourist attraction lies not only in its breathtaking beauty but also in its status as a renowned site for snorkeling and diving, making it a haven for underwater enthusiasts.

Ras Mohammed National Park: Things to do

Visitors to Ras Mohammed National Park have a plethora of activities to choose from. For those interested in marine life, snorkeling and scuba diving are must-do activities, with the park’s coral reefs being home to over a thousand species of fish and other sea creatures. The Shark and Yolanda Reefs are particularly famous diving spots, offering spectacular underwater vistas. Besides underwater adventures, tourists can also explore the park’s terrestrial attractions, such as the Mangrove Swamp and the Magic Lake, which is believed to have therapeutic properties. Hiking and bird-watching are other popular activities, allowing visitors to witness the park’s diverse flora and fauna against the backdrop of striking desert and coastal scenery.

How to get to Ras Mohammed National Park, Sharm El Sheikh?

Getting to Ras Mohammed National Park from Sharm El Sheikh is straightforward and convenient. The park is located roughly 20 kilometers southwest of the city, and several transportation options are available to tourists. Many visitors opt for guided tours, which often include transportation to and from the park, along with expert-led excursions within the park itself. Alternatively, travelers can hire a taxi or rent a car; the drive takes approximately 30-40 minutes. For the more adventurous, cycling tours to the park are also an option, allowing for an up-close experience with the landscape en route. Regardless of the chosen mode of transport, the journey offers stunning coastal views and a glimpse into the natural beauty that awaits at Ras Mohammed National Park.

Old Market

The Old Market, or “Souq,” in Sharm El Sheikh is a vibrant and bustling marketplace that offers an authentic taste of Egyptian culture. Located in the heart of Sharm El Sheikh, this iconic market is a stark contrast to the modern resorts and hotels that line the city’s coast. It is a magnet for tourists seeking a more traditional and immersive experience, featuring a maze of narrow alleys filled with shops selling everything from spices and souvenirs to jewelry and textiles. The Old Market is not just a shopping destination; it’s also a place where visitors can witness the daily life of locals, making it a must-visit spot for anyone traveling to this Egyptian resort town.

Old Market: Things to do

There is an abundance of activities to indulge in when visiting the Old Market. Shopping is the foremost attraction, where tourists can haggle over prices and purchase unique items such as hand-made crafts, aromatic spices, exotic fruits, and traditional Egyptian attire. Besides shopping, the market is replete with local cafes and restaurants where visitors can savor authentic Egyptian cuisine, including dishes like falafel, shawarma, and konafa. Many of these eateries feature outdoor seating, allowing tourists to enjoy their meal while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Furthermore, the Old Market hosts several cultural performances, including traditional music and dance, offering a deeper dive into Egyptian culture and heritage.

How to get to Old Market, Sharm El Sheikh?

Getting to the Old Market in Sharm El Sheikh is quite straightforward, given its central location. Most tourists opt for taxis, which are easily available throughout the city. A taxi ride from the main hotel zones or from Naama Bay, one of the main tourist hubs, usually takes about 10-15 minutes. For those who prefer public transportation, microbuses frequently run routes that pass by the market, providing a more economical option. Additionally, many hotels offer shuttle services to popular tourist sites, including the Old Market. It is always a good idea to check with your hotel concierge regarding available transportation options. Whether you choose to travel by taxi, shuttle, or microbus, the journey to the Old Market is convenient and hassle-free, making it accessible for all types of travelers.

SOHO Square

SOHO Square in Sharm El Sheikh is one of Egypt’s premier tourist attractions, located strategically in the vibrant heart of the city. Giving travelers a luxurious escape, this bustling square offers a blend of leisure, shopping, and entertainment venues that have elevated it to a must-visit destination for tourists from around the globe. Its unique combination of Eastern charm and modern amenities ensures that every visitor finds something to captivate them, making it an invaluable addition to Sharm El Sheikh’s diverse tourism landscape.

SOHO Square: Things to do

SOHO Square is a hub of activity and entertainment that caters to a wide array of interests. Visitors can indulge in high-end shopping at numerous boutiques that feature both local and international brands, or savor diverse culinary delights from an array of restaurants and cafes. For those seeking entertainment, SOHO Square boasts a state-of-the-art ice skating rink, a bowling alley, and even a Culturama panorama show that presents Egypt’s storied past in a fascinating digital format. Additionally, the picturesque dancing fountain and live performances add a lively, festive atmosphere that keeps the energy high throughout the evening.

How to get to SOHO Square, Sharm El Sheikh?

Reaching SOHO Square in Sharm El Sheikh is convenient and hassle-free. Most tourists arrive via Sharm El Sheikh International Airport, which is a mere 10-minute drive from SOHO Square. Numerous hotels offer shuttle services directly to the square, and taxis are readily available for hire as well. For those already staying in Sharm El Sheikh, local transportation options such as buses or private cars make it easy to navigate to SOHO Square. With clear signage and frequent routes, getting to this bustling tourist attraction is simple, ensuring that visitors can maximize their time enjoying the array of activities and experiences on offer.

Shark’s Bay

Shark’s Bay, situated in the northern region of Sharm El Sheikh on the Sinai Peninsula, is a picturesque and serene travel destination that has captured the hearts of tourists from around the world. Known for its crystal-clear waters, stunning coral reefs, and vibrant marine life, Shark’s Bay is a haven for snorkelers, divers, and sun-seekers alike. The bay offers a more tranquil alternative to the bustling Naama Bay, providing visitors with an ideal setting for relaxation and adventure in an unparalleled natural environment. The clear waters and abundant marine life make Shark’s Bay not only a beautiful beach destination but also a valuable site for those interested in underwater adventures and marine conservation.

Shark’s Bay: Things to do

Visitors to Shark’s Bay will find no shortage of exciting activities to fill their days. First and foremost, the bay is renowned for its excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. Tourists can explore the colorful coral reefs and witness a diverse array of marine species, including tropical fish, rays, and sometimes even turtles. For those who prefer to stay above water, Shark’s Bay also offers a variety of water sports, such as windsurfing, jet-skiing, and parasailing. Sunbathers can relax on the pristine sandy beaches, enjoying the warm Egyptian sun and the serene ambiance. Additionally, the bay has a selection of beachfront cafes and restaurants where visitors can savor delicious local cuisine and fresh seafood while taking in stunning vistas of the Red Sea.

How to get to Shark’s Bay, Sharm El Sheikh?

Reaching Shark’s Bay in Sharm El Sheikh is relatively straightforward, thanks to the well-developed transportation infrastructure in the region. The nearest airport is Sharm El Sheikh International Airport, which is approximately 10 kilometers away from Shark’s Bay. From the airport, tourists can take a taxi or arrange for a private transfer to their accommodation at Shark’s Bay. For those staying in other parts of Sharm El Sheikh, such as Naama Bay or the Old Market, local taxis and shuttle services are readily available to transport visitors to Shark’s Bay. Additionally, many hotels and resorts offer complimentary shuttle services for their guests, making it convenient for travelers to explore the scenic beauty and enjoy the myriad activities that Shark’s Bay has to offer.