Sharm El Sheikh Travel Guide: What You Need to Know Before You Go

With its turquoise sea, coral reefs and a holiday season that stretches across most of the year, Sharm El Sheikh is one of the strong choices for both those who want to rest and those who want to explore the underwater world. However, choosing the right area, hotel and travel period directly affects the quality of your holiday. This guide brings together the essential information that will make decision-making easier for first-time visitors to Sharm El Sheikh.

Why is Sharm El Sheikh preferred?

Sharm El Sheikh is located on the Red Sea coast, at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula. Egypt's official tourism portal describes the city as a holiday destination located between Ras Mohammed National Park and the Nabq Protected Area, known for its marine life and coral reefs. In the region, there are options ranging from all-inclusive resorts and diving centers to lively bazaars and quiet coves, catering to different holiday expectations.

When to go to Sharm El Sheikh?

Although Sharm El Sheikh can be visited in all four seasons, it is important to choose a period according to your holiday style. Spring and autumn months generally offer more balanced conditions for those who want to combine beach time with city exploration. In the summer months, temperatures rise significantly; while suitable for those who enjoy a sea holiday, it may be more comfortable to plan outdoor excursions for morning or evening hours. In winter, daytimes can feel mild, while evenings may call for a light layer due to wind and coolness.

If you are planning diving or snorkeling, do not look only at the air temperature. Wind conditions, boat schedules, and whether your hotel is located in a sheltered bay also affect the experience.

In which area should you stay?

Naama Bay

It is a practical center for those who want to be close to restaurants, cafes and evening activity. It suits travelers visiting for the first time who also want to spend time outside their hotel.

Sharks Bay and the SOHO Square area

It is an area that those seeking a more orderly holiday zone, quality facilities and evening walking options can consider. Its proximity to the airport can also shorten transfer times.

Hadaba and the Old Market area

It is a strong alternative for those who want to feel the local atmosphere, be close to the bazaar and reach different coves. When choosing a hotel, be sure to check how beach access works; at some properties, entry to the sea is by stairs or a platform.

Nabq Bay

It is one of the areas frequently considered by families for its large resort hotels and quiet holiday atmosphere. Since it can be more exposed to the wind, it is worth asking the hotel about beach and jetty conditions in advance, especially during winter months.

The best things to do in Sharm El Sheikh

• Ras Mohammed National Park: One of the region's most important natural stops, thanks to its coral reefs and marine life. It can be visited with a boat tour or a land program.

• Snorkeling and diving: Beginner-level programs are available for first-timers, while experienced divers can find different reef and wreck routes.

• Desert safari: Activities such as ATV rides, camel trips and a Bedouin camp can be offered in the same program. Wear suitable clothing for sun, dust and heat.

• Old Market: A lively option for souvenirs, spices and dinner. Agreeing on prices and bargaining is common when shopping.

• SOHO Square: A well-organized and easily accessible area for those who want an evening walk, restaurants and shops in one place.

Do not just look at star ratings when choosing a hotel

On a Sharm holiday, the hotel's location is often more decisive than its star rating. Check whether the sea is accessed directly from a sandy beach or a jetty; whether the reef area is suitable for children; whether there is a heated pool; and whether a shuttle to the center is provided. Since coverage in all-inclusive concepts can vary from hotel to hotel, ask about drinks, à la carte restaurants and late-night snacks.

Visa and entry requirements

For Turkish citizens, Egypt's general visa system and the short-term entry arrangement for South Sinai may differ from each other. According to the current information from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye, citizens entering through Sharm El-Sheikh Airport and South Sinai ports may, under certain conditions, be issued a 15-day visit stamp limited to Sharm El-Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba, Saint Catherine and Taba. Requirements such as a round-trip ticket, a confirmed hotel reservation and proof of financial means may be requested.

Since rules may change, check the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye's travel announcement for Egypt before booking and flying. If you plan to travel outside South Sinai, separately assess the visa that suits your travel plans.

What should you bring?

• High-SPF sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses

• Water shoes and a mask if you prefer personal snorkeling equipment

• A light layer for evenings and air-conditioned areas

• Digital and printed copies of your passport, flight and hotel documents

• Closed shoes for desert activities and a light scarf against dust

How many days should you set aside?

A program of four or five days may be enough to combine rest at the hotel, one sea activity and a city visit. For those who want to see Ras Mohammed, a desert safari and different coves at a calmer pace, six or seven nights offer a more comfortable plan. For the best results, factor in your first and last days according to flight times.

Brief planning summary

For a Sharm El Sheikh holiday, first determine the travel period, then the accommodation area and how you will access the sea. When comparing tour packages, look not only at the starting price but at the flight time, baggage allowance, transfers, hotel concept and the full list of included activities. This makes it easier to understand the real difference between two programs that appear similar. To compare current Sharm El Sheikh tour options and prices, you can browse the Sharm El Sheikh Tours category.

Last updated: August 10, 2026. Since visa and entry requirements may change, check official sources again before traveling.

There are a few more guides that can help you plan your Sharm El Sheikh trip. If you are undecided between Naama Bay and Sharks Bay, see our area selection guide; if you are wondering how to make the most of a 5-day holiday, read our what to do in 5 days article; if you want to learn the most suitable month to go, take a look at our best time to travel guide. For a flight-inclusive package tour, you can also review the Istanbul Departure Sharm El Sheikh Tour page.