Hurghada Travel Guide Itinerary
Welcome to your ultimate Hurghada travel guide itinerary—designed to give you every insider secret for a perfect Red Sea getaway. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, with family, or on a shoestring budget, this guide is structured to answer your top questions in clear, and hope to provide conversational, helpful advice.
Why Hurghada?
Hurghada, nestled on Egypt’s shimmering Red Sea coast, has transformed from a humble fishing village into one of the world’s most coveted beach and dive destinations.
Here’s why:
- Crystal-Clear Waters & Vibrant Reefs: Over 200 species of coral and 1,200 species of fish make snorkeling and diving unforgettable.
- Year-Round Sunshine: With over 350 sunny days per year, pack your sunglasses and swimsuit—rain is rare.
- Accessibility: Direct flights from major European and Middle Eastern cities land you in Hurghada International Airport within hours.
- Diverse Activities: From adrenaline-pumping desert safaris to serene spa retreats and family-friendly water parks, there’s something for every traveler profile.
Preparing for Your Trip
Travel Tips & Packing List
- Essentials: Passport, travel insurance, reef-safe sunscreen, swimwear, light cotton clothing, hat, and comfortable sandals.
- Electronics: Underwater camera, universal adapter (Egypt uses Type C & F plugs), power bank.
- Health: Basic first-aid kit, any prescription medication, anti-sea-sickness tablets if you’re prone.
Best Time to Visit
7-Day Hurghada Itinerary
Below is a detailed day-by-day plan to maximize your time, combining iconic experiences with hidden gems.
Day 1: Arrival & Beach Relaxation
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Morning: Land in Hurghada; transfer to your hotel/resort.
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Afternoon: Unwind on a private resort beach or public Hurghada Beach; swim and snorkel right off the shore.
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Evening: Sunset stroll along the Corniche; dinner at a seaside restaurant featuring fresh seafood.
Day 2: Snorkeling at Giftun Island
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Early Start: Boat transfer from Marina; 45 minutes to Giftun Island.
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Activities: Snorkel in Dolphin House lagoon; spot turtles and colorful soft corals.
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Lunch: Picnic on the white-sand beach.
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Return: Afternoon free — consider a spa massage or pool time.
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Evening: Optional glass-bottom boat ride at sunset.
Day 3: Desert Safari & Bedouin Dinner
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Morning: ATV or quad-bike safari through the Sinai desert dunes.
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Afternoon: Meet a Bedouin family; taste traditional tea and flatbread.
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Sunset: Camel ride at golden hour.
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Night: BBQ-style Bedouin dinner under the stars, complete with local music and shisha.
Day 4: City Exploration & Market Hopping
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Morning: Visit El Dahar (Old Town) — stroll through fruit markets and spice souks.
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Lunch: Try kushari or ful medames at a local eatery.
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Afternoon: Shop for papyrus art, alabaster souvenirs, and handmade jewelry.
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Evening: Catch a traditional tanoura dance performance.
Day 5: Diving Adventure in the Red Sea
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All Day: Book a PADI or SSI dive trip to famous sites like .
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Pro Tip: If you’re not certified, try a Discover Scuba Diving experience.
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Night: Relax with a beachside cocktail and live music.
Day 6: Aqua Parks & Family Fun
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Morning: Splash around at Jungle Aqua Park or Makadi Water World.
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Afternoon: Lazy river floats, water slides, and kids’ play areas.
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Evening: Family dinner at a themed restaurant .
Day 7: Leisure, Shopping & Departure
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Morning: Final swim or spa treatment.
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Late Morning: Last-minute shopping at Hurghada Mall.
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Afternoon: Transfer to airport; depart with unforgettable memories.
Unique Things to Do in Hurghada
Hurghada at night comes alive with beachfront bars, open-air markets, spectacular light shows, and desert stargazing—perfect for night owls seeking both excitement and tranquility.”
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Stargazing in the Desert
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Join a guided astronomy tour; far from city lights, the Milky Way dazzles.
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Snorkeling/diving
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Experience Scuba Diving and Snorkeling Trips.
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Open-air Night Markets
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El Dahar’s evening souk: shop handicrafts under string-light canopy.
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Beachfront Bars & Clubs
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Papas Beach Bar for live music; Ministry of Sound for DJs on the sand.
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Light & Sound Shows
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Check resort event calendars for fireworks and laser shows.
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Unique Things to Do in Hurghada for Couples
For couples, Hurghada offers romantic sunset cruises, private beach dinners, spa retreats, and exclusive helicopter tours—ideal for honeymooners or date nights.”
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Private Sunset Sail on a felucca with champagne.
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Couples’ Spa Day: Rasul mud therapy and aromatherapy massages.
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Helicopter Flight over the Red Sea reefs.
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Secluded Beach Picnic on Giftun Island.
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Nighttime Glow-in-the-Dark Snorkel as a shared adventure.
Free Things to Do in Hurghada
Enjoy Hurghada on a budget by strolling the Corniche, exploring local markets, beach combing at sunrise, and attending free cultural performances in public squares.”
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Beachcombing & Shell Hunting at Mahmya island Beach's edge.
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Sunrise Yoga on the shore (join free classes on select hotel beaches).
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Window-Shopping at Senzo Mall’s outdoor promenade.
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Cultural Performances: Look for free folklore shows in Sheraton Corniche area.
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Art Galleries: Browse local artists’ work at no cost.
Things to Do in Hurghada City Center
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Marina Boulevard: Cafés, boutiques, and water-taxi rides perfect for Instagram shots.
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El Mina Mosque: Admire Ottoman-style architecture (outside viewing is free).
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Hurghada Grand Aquarium: Entry fee applies, but the exterior boardwalk and sculpture garden are open.
Things to Do in Hurghada for Families
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Aqua Parks: Kid-friendly slides and wave pools.
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Dolphin House Safari: Swim with dolphins in a protected lagoon.
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Toy Town (in some resorts): Indoor playgrounds.
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Mini-Golf courses—often complimentary at family resorts.
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Sea Turtle Hatchery Visit in nearby Marsa Alam (day trip).
What to See in Hurghada City
Hurghada city features cultural landmarks like El Dahar’s Old Town, the panoramic Hurghada Clock Tower, and the modern Marina district, offering a blend of history, shopping, and seaside views.”
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El Dahar (Old Town): Narrow lanes, spice souks, and authentic street food.
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Hurghada Clock Tower: Iconic city landmark—perfect photo spot.
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Hurghada Marina: Luxury yachts, high-end restaurants, and people-watching.
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Senzo Mall: Indoor amusement park, cinema, and global brands.
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Local Mosques: Mosque of Omar ibn al-Khattab and Al Mina Mosque.
Hurghada Marina — Your Go-To Waterfront
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Dining Options: Italian trattorias, seafood grills, and rooftop lounges.
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Boat Excursions: Day trips, glass-bottom boats, and deep-sea fishing charters.
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Nightlife: Beach clubs often have live DJs, fire shows, and themed nights.
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Shopping: Handcrafted jewelry, Egyptian cotton apparel, and souvenirs.
Practical Travel Tips & FAQs
Is Hurghada safe for tourists?
Yes—tourist areas have enhanced security. Always follow local guidance and avoid isolated spots at night.
Do I need a visa?
Most nationalities obtain a visa on arrival. Double-check current requirements before travel.
What currency is used?
Egyptian Pound (EGP). Credit cards are widely accepted; ATMs are available in city centers.
How is tap water?
Bottled water is recommended for drinking; most hotels provide complimentary bottles.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
Your Hurghada travel guide itinerary is now complete, combining a 7-day breakdown, answers to the most questions. From snorkeling vibrant reefs to savoring Bedouin dinners under the stars, Hurghada delivers unforgettable experiences for every traveler type—solo adventurers, couples, families, or budget explorers.
Pack your bags, prepare for sunshine, and get ready to explore one of the Red Sea’s brightest gems. Safe travels and enjoy every moment of your Hurghada adventure!
Happy travels,
Your Hurghada Travel Guide & Red Sea Enthusiast
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