Hurghada Travel Guide and Tips

Hurghada

Hurghada has emerged as one of the leading and one of the most frequented tourist destinations in Egypt. Located next to the Red Sea, Hurghada boasts of some of the most fabulous beaches and beach resorts along the shores. Famed for its outstanding diving opportunities, the sunny city is particularly tempting to those with some interest in scuba diving. Travellers flock to the city to wonder at the underwater reefs and remarkable marine life. The centre of the city thrives with busy bazaars, splendid mosques and a vivacious atmosphere that reflects typical Egyptian life. While the Desert Mountains of the region are perfect for desert tours. However, the essence of Hurghada lies in sunshine and relaxation that it offers so abundantly.

Tourist Spots in Hurghada

Hurghada is an ideal place for tourists looking for sand, sea and sun. Beaches and reefs are the major attractions of the city, while scuba diving is the biggest leisure activity that is undertaken by tourists. Scuba divers can explore the lovely coral gardens along with fantastic ship wrecks. Hurghada also boasts of a very lively and dynamic nightlife. Below listed are some of the popular tourist activities/attractions in Hurghada.

Shopping Attractions in Hurghada

Hurghada is popular Egyptian tourist destination and thus home to numerous shops and shopping malls, most of which have tourists as their primary customers. One can buy souvenirs, gift items and traditional art pieces. The region has a number of clothing stores and fashion boutiques along with a myriad of diving merchandise and equipment shops. Bargaining is a big part of the city shopping experience, enjoy it but don’t be over-aggressive with the traders. Here are few major shopping attractions in Hurghada.

Eating Out in Hurghada

Hurghada has lot to offer to visitors from all over the world as far as dining experience is considered. One can enjoy a variety of cuisines – Chinese, Indian, Italian, Mexican and French – in various Hurghada restaurants. The eating joints in the region are renowned world over for their excellent fusion dishes. Visitors can enjoy their favourite dishes blended with Egyptian flavours and feel the true gastronomic bliss.

Hotels in Hurghada

There are number of hotels in Hurghada that cater to various budgets and interests. Most hotels in the region fall either in the mid-range or high-end category. Beach facing resorts are especially popular among travellers. Such resorts are mainly part of all-inclusive package deals and tours. Hotel rates in the city depend upon the time or season of the year one is visiting.

Cheap Flights to Hurghada

Find the latest airfares and discounted offers on flights to Hurghada operating from UK.

Preferred Airlines to Hurghada from UK

Lufthansa | Swiss Airline | KLM Royal Dutch | Air France | Emirates |

Airports in Hurghada

The Hurghada International Airport (Code: HRG) is an international airport that is located 5 km (3 miles) southwest of El Dahar. The airport handles more than 6,700,000 passengers annually. Travellers can hire cars from the airport itself or can use regular taxis and minibuses that operate from the airport

Best Time to Visit Hurghada

Like most desert regions in area, Hurghada has a dry and hot climate. However, the cool breeze from the Red Sea makes the year-round temperature at this Egyptian city quite pleasant. The best time to visit the city depends entirely upon the travellers’ interest and his/her preference for various activities. Summers in Hurghada is the ideal time to enjoy sea-side lounging, indulging in long tanning sessions and having a good swim. The holy month of Ramadan is also a good time to visit Hurghada. Travellers are treated with majestic festivities and scrumptious delicacies. However, one must keep in mind that most shops and eating joints work on irregular hours during the month. The cool breezy feel of December also attracts many to the shores of Hurghada.

It is best to plan well in advance for holidays in Hurghada. Last minute deals, most often then not, will fetch you costly air fares and exorbitant hotel prices especially during the peak season of summer.

Getting Around in Hurghada

Hurghada’s local transport consists of taxis and local minivans. Taxis are definitely more convenient and accessible form of transportation for tourists. However, visitors must be aware that taxi drivers are known to quote absurd rates. Not many tourists use minibuses but they are a cheap means of travel.

Hurghada Travel Tips

Hurghada is more or less safe for tourists but it is best to never drop your cautious guard. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid isolated areas in night.

Be prepared to bargain over prices with shopkeepers who can be a bit pushy sometimes. If you are not interested in buying anything, it is best to not avoid them completely.

The tap water in Hurghada is not safe and should be avoided at all costs. Always drink bottled mineral water.

Sunburn is a big concern in summers. It is best to come prepared with adequate sun blocks.

Foreigners are not expected to dress conservatively like locals. However, one should use common sense and not dress provocatively.

Almost all major banks and hotels in Hurghada provide money exchange services.

(Note: This destination guide is based on information gathered from reliable resources available on the internet and provides only general information about the destination. Southall Travel holds no responsibility for any misrepresentation of facts and will not be in any way liable for any kind of eventuality arising from the use of information given in this guide)