Sharm El Sheikh Guide: What to Know Before Your Red Sea Holiday
Crystal-clear water, coral reefs and sunshine even in the middle of winter: Sharm El Sheikh is one of the best-loved beach destinations on the Red Sea. In this guide you'll find where Sharm El Sheikh is, when to go, what to do there, who it suits best and a few practical tips to help you plan.
Where is Sharm El Sheikh?
Sharm El Sheikh is a resort town on the southern tip of Egypt's Sinai Peninsula, on the Red Sea coast. It has an international airport with direct flights, and the town is built around holidays by the sea, with hotel areas stretching along the coast and a lively centre. In short: it's in Egypt, but a long way from Cairo, on the northern Red Sea.
Do I need a visa for Sharm El Sheikh?
Entry and visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change, so we don't give definitive visa information here. Please check the official sources – your country's foreign ministry or the Egyptian embassy – before you travel, or simply ask us when you send your request.
It's also worth checking that your passport is valid for long enough before you go.
When is the best time to visit Sharm El Sheikh?
Sharm El Sheikh enjoys beach weather for most of the year, which makes it a favourite with anyone looking for sun and sea when it's cold back home:
- Autumn and winter: A popular choice for a sunny beach break, including over the festive season.
- Spring: Ideal for a short getaway.
- Summer: Temperatures are very high; the hotel pools and the sea are the best way to cool off.
We recommend checking the forecast for your travel dates before you leave.
Things to do in Sharm El Sheikh
Most visitors come for the sea and the coral reefs. Your days are your own: relax at the hotel, or add excursions such as desert safaris, boat trips and diving.
Snorkelling and diving
The Red Sea is famous for its colourful corals and rich marine life. Even if you've never dived, you can explore the underwater world with just a snorkel – and experienced divers will find plenty of variety too.
Boat trips
Full-day boat trips stop at different bays for swimming and snorkelling. Ras Mohammed National Park and the waters around Tiran Island are among the best-known sea routes in the area.
Desert safari
A safari in the Sinai desert adds something different to a beach holiday. Watching the sun set over the desert is one of the most popular experiences in Sharm El Sheikh.
Hotel life
Beaches, pools, spas and entertainment are a big part of a Sharm El Sheikh holiday. If you're after an all-inclusive stay, just tell us which board basis you prefer when choosing a hotel.
Who is a Sharm El Sheikh holiday for?
- Sun and sea lovers: A great option for a beach holiday outside the usual summer season.
- Families: Hotels with pools, beaches and kids' entertainment make for an easy family break.
- Couples: Quiet beaches and sunset views for a short escape or a honeymoon.
- Underwater fans: For snorkelling and diving, the Red Sea is reason enough to go.
- Short-break planners: Even a 3–4 night trip is enough to enjoy a proper holiday abroad.
Combining Sharm El Sheikh with Cairo and Hurghada
Want to pair your Red Sea holiday with the pyramids and ancient Egypt? Sharm El Sheikh or Hurghada can be combined with Cairo in one trip – tell us what you have in mind and we'll put together a plan for you.
Practical tips for Sharm El Sheikh
- Passport: Check your passport's validity before you travel.
- Visa: Requirements depend on your nationality; check official sources or ask us.
- Travel health insurance: We recommend taking out travel health insurance.
- Flight times: Some flights operate at night, so check your arrival and departure times and plan accordingly.
- Snorkelling gear: Bringing your own mask makes things easier. Please don't touch or stand on the coral.
- Sun protection: The sun is strong even in winter – pack sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to visit Sharm El Sheikh? It depends on your nationality, and the rules can change. Check with your country's foreign ministry or the Egyptian embassy, or ask us in your request.
How many nights should I plan? Even 3–4 nights are enough for a relaxing break; longer stays leave time for excursions or a trip to Cairo.
Are desert safaris and boat trips worth adding? Yes – desert safaris, boat trips and diving are the most popular activities in the area, and we can arrange them for you.
Can I see Cairo from Sharm El Sheikh? Yes. Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada and Cairo can be combined in one trip. Send us a request and we'll plan it with you.
When is the best time to go? The area is suitable for a beach holiday most of the year; autumn, winter and spring are especially popular.
Plan your Sharm El Sheikh holiday with us
Tell us your dates, how many of you are travelling and what kind of holiday you're looking for. We arrange hotels, flights, transfers, and local day tours and activities – and put it all together around you.
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