4-Day Hurghada Experience: Local's Guide for Couples - Shopping, Sightseeing, Food & Wine
Hurghada, Egypt
4 days
About Hurghada, Egypt
Experience the exotic allure of Hurghada, Egypt, a captivating coastal city along the Red Sea. Renowned for its spectacular coral reefs and diverse marine life, Hurghada is a paradise for divers and snorkelers. Explore the vibrant underwater world, or bask in the sun on pristine sandy beaches. The city also offers a rich cultural experience with its bustling markets, traditional eateries, and historic sites. For adventure seekers, desert safaris on quad bikes or camel rides are a must. As the sun sets, indulge in a luxurious stay at one of the many high-end resorts, or enjoy the vibrant nightlife. Hurghada, a blend of relaxation, adventure, and culture, promises an unforgettable Egyptian holiday.
4-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Beach Day and Red Sea Boat Tour
Morning
Visit one of Hurghada's beautiful public beaches. Spend the morning swimming, sunbathing, or simply relaxing by the sea.
Lunch
Have lunch at a beachside cafe. Enjoy a light meal while taking in the beautiful sea views.
Afternoon
Take a boat tour of the Red Sea. This is a great opportunity to see the stunning coral reefs and marine life that the area is known for.
Dinner
Dine at a local restaurant offering traditional Egyptian cuisine. Try dishes like ful medames, a stew of fava beans, or ta'ameya, Egyptian falafel.
Evening
Enjoy a relaxing evening at a local shisha cafe. Try different flavors of shisha while enjoying a cup of traditional Egyptian tea.
Day 3
Aquarium Visit and Giftun Islands Exploration
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Hurghada Grand Aquarium. Here, you can see a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and colorful tropical fish.
Lunch
Have lunch at a restaurant near the aquarium. Try a seafood dish made with fresh local ingredients.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the beautiful Giftun Islands. Take a boat tour, go snorkeling, or simply relax on the beach.
Dinner
Enjoy a romantic dinner at a restaurant with views of the Red Sea. Try a traditional Egyptian dish like pigeon stuffed with rice.
Evening
End your day with a visit to a local music venue. Enjoy a live performance of traditional Egyptian music.
Day 4
Coptic Orthodox Church Visit and El Dahar Square Exploration
Morning
Visit the Coptic Orthodox Church in the morning. This beautiful church is a great place to learn about Egypt's Christian history.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local restaurant. Try dishes like shawarma, a popular Middle Eastern dish made with grilled meat, or fattoush, a refreshing salad made with toasted bread and vegetables.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the El Dahar Square. This bustling square is home to numerous shops, cafes, and street vendors.
Dinner
Have dinner at a restaurant offering traditional Egyptian cuisine. Try dishes like kofta, a type of meatball, or mahshi, vegetables stuffed with rice.
Evening
End your trip with a relaxing evening at a local cafe. Enjoy a cup of traditional Egyptian coffee while reflecting on your experiences.
Attractions in Itinerary (6)
1Local market
Explore the bustling local market for a taste of local life, fresh produce, and unique souvenirs.
2Marina
A bustling hub of activity, the Marina in Hurghada is a must-visit. It's a great place to relax and watch the world go by, with a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops to explore.
3Hurghada Grand Aquarium
An aquarium showcasing a variety of marine life.
4Giftun Islands
A popular spot for snorkeling and beach relaxation, accessible by boat tours.
5Coptic Orthodox Church
One of the most significant religious sites in Hurghada, the Coptic Orthodox Church is a beautiful example of Coptic architecture with intricate designs and a peaceful atmosphere.
6El Dahar Square
A bustling market area with local vendors selling a variety of goods.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Ful Medames
A traditional Egyptian dish made from fava beans, oil, and spices. It's a staple breakfast dish in Hurghada and is often served with bread.
Koshari
A popular Egyptian dish consisting of lentils, rice, pasta, and a spicy tomato sauce, topped with caramelized onions. It's a common street food in Hurghada.
Shawarma
A Middle Eastern dish that's also popular in Hurghada. It's made from thinly sliced cuts of meat, like chicken, beef, or lamb, rolled into a large piece of flatbread or pita.
Molokhia
A traditional Egyptian soup made from the leaves of the jute plant, chicken or rabbit, and spices. It's a common dinner dish in Hurghada.
Mahshi
A classic Egyptian dish made by stuffing vegetables like peppers, tomatoes, or zucchini with a rice and herb mixture. It's a popular lunch or dinner option in Hurghada.
Ta'meya
Egyptian version of falafel made from fava beans instead of chickpeas. It's a popular street food in Hurghada, often served in a pita with salad and tahini sauce.
Baba Ghanoush
A traditional Egyptian appetizer made from mashed cooked eggplant mixed with tahini, olive oil, and various seasonings. It's commonly served as a starter in Hurghada.
Om Ali
A traditional Egyptian dessert, similar to bread pudding, made with pastry, milk, and nuts. It's a popular sweet treat in Hurghada.
Egyptian Coffee
A strong, thick coffee with a foamy top, similar to Turkish coffee. It's a popular beverage in Hurghada, often enjoyed after meals.
Sugarcane Juice
A sweet, refreshing drink made from the juice of sugarcane. It's a popular thirst quencher in the hot climate of Hurghada.
Hibiscus Tea
A traditional Egyptian drink made from dried hibiscus flowers. It's often served hot or cold in Hurghada, and is known for its deep red color and tart flavor.
Sahlab
A warm, creamy drink made from milk, sugar, and the powdered roots of the orchid plant. It's a popular winter beverage in Hurghada, often topped with cinnamon and nuts.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Hurghada, Egypt is during the spring months of April and May or during the fall months of September and October. During these periods, the weather is warm but not overly hot, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The summer months can be extremely hot and the winter months, while milder, can be a bit cool for activities like swimming and snorkeling.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 7 | Sun | Coptic Christmas Day |
January 25 | Thu | Revolution Day January 25 |
April 10 | Wed | Eid el Fitr |
April 11 | Thu | Eid el Fitr Holiday |
April 12 | Fri | Eid el Fitr Holiday |
April 25 | Thu | Sinai Liberation Day |
May 1 | Wed | Labor Day |
May 6 | Mon | Spring Festival |
June 16 | Sun | Arafat Day |
June 17 | Mon | Eid al-Adha |
June 18 | Tue | Eid al-Adha Holiday |
June 19 | Wed | Eid al-Adha Holiday |
June 30 | Sun | June 30 Revolution |
July 4 | Thu | Day off for June 30 Revolution |
July 8 | Mon | Muharram |
July 23 | Tue | Revolution Day July 23 |
July 25 | Thu | Day off for Revolution Day July 23 |
September 16 | Mon | Prophet Mohamed's Birthday |
October 6 | Sun | Armed Forces Day |
October 10 | Thu | Day off for Armed Forces Day |
How to get around
Taxi
Taxis are a common way to get around in Hurghada. They are available 24/7 and can be hailed from the street or pre-booked. They are metered, but it's always a good idea to agree on a fare before starting your journey.
Microbus
Microbuses are a popular and cheap way of getting around in Hurghada. They operate on fixed routes and you can get on or off anywhere along the route. They are usually crowded, but they offer an authentic local experience.
Car Rental
Renting a car is a good option if you plan on exploring Hurghada and its surroundings at your own pace. International and local car rental companies are available. Remember to drive on the right side of the road in Egypt.
Ridesharing
Uber is available in Hurghada, offering a convenient and reliable way to get around. You can book a ride using the Uber app on your smartphone. It's a good option for those who prefer not to haggle over taxi fares.
Bicycle Rental
Renting a bicycle is a fun and eco-friendly way to explore Hurghada. There are several places where you can rent a bike, and many hotels also offer this service to their guests.
Public Bus
Public buses are the cheapest way to get around in Hurghada, but they can be crowded and confusing for tourists. They operate on fixed routes and have specific bus stops.
Private Transfer
Private transfers are a convenient way to get around in Hurghada, especially for those traveling in a group or with a lot of luggage. You can book a private transfer from the airport to your hotel or for a day trip to the surrounding areas.
Boat
Boats are a great way to explore the Red Sea and its beautiful coral reefs. There are many boat tours available, offering snorkeling and diving opportunities.
Important information
Currency£ EGP
Time zoneUTC+2
Driving sideRight
Emergency phoneAmbulance: 123; Fire: 180; Police: 122
Drinking waterOpt for bottled water
Power sockets
Voltage220 V
Things to know about Hurghada, Egypt as a first time visitor
1
Egyptian Arabic is the most widely spoken language in Hurghada, but English is also commonly spoken in tourist areas.
2
The currency in Egypt is the Egyptian pound (EGP). Credit cards are accepted in most places, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller vendors.
3
Tipping is customary in Egypt. It's known as 'baksheesh' and is expected in restaurants, hotels, and for services like guided tours.
4
Hurghada has a desert climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Average temperatures range from 59°F (15°C) in winter to 95°F (35°C) in summer.
5
Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Women should cover their shoulders and knees, and men should avoid wearing shorts.
6
Hurghada is generally safe for tourists, but it's always important to stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
7
Bargaining is common in local markets. Don't be afraid to negotiate prices.
8
Tap water in Hurghada is not safe to drink. Always opt for bottled water.
9
Hurghada is located in the Eastern European Time zone (EET), which is 2 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+2).
10
Public transportation in Hurghada is limited. Taxis and private car hires are the most common ways to get around.
11
Hurghada's peak tourist season is from October to April, when the weather is most pleasant.
12
Hurghada has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury resorts.
13
Egyptian cuisine is diverse and delicious. Try local dishes like ful medames (mashed fava beans) and kushari (a mix of lentils, rice, pasta, and tomato sauce).
14
Hurghada has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and beach parties.
15
Egypt requires a visa for most foreign visitors. Check the latest visa requirements before your trip.
16
Hurghada is known for its beautiful coral reefs. Don't miss the chance to go snorkeling or scuba diving.
17
The sun can be very strong in Hurghada. Always wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself.
18
Hurghada has a modern hospital and several pharmacies, but it's a good idea to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.
19
Egypt uses the Type C and Type F plug. The standard voltage is 220 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.
20
Respect local customs and traditions. Egyptians are generally friendly and hospitable, but it's important to be respectful of their culture.
Basic Arabic to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | مرحبا | Marhaba | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | مع السلامة | Ma'a al-salama | Saying goodbye |
Please | من فضلك | Min fadlak | Making a request |
Thank you | شكرا | Shukran | Expressing gratitude |
Yes | نعم | Na'am | Agreeing or confirming |
No | لا | La | Disagreeing or denying |
Excuse me | عفوا | Afuwan | Getting attention or apologizing |
I'm sorry | أنا آسف | Ana asef | Apologizing |
Do you speak English? | هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟ | Hal tatakallam al-ingliziya? | Asking if someone speaks English |
I don't understand | أنا لا أفهم | Ana la afham | When you don't understand what was said |
Where is the bathroom? | أين الحمام؟ | Ayna al-hammam? | Asking for directions |
How much does this cost? | بكم هذا؟ | Bikam hadha? | Asking the price of something |
I need a doctor | أحتاج إلى طبيب | Ahtaj ila tabib | In case of a medical emergency |
Help | مساعدة | Musa'ada | In case of an emergency |
Water | ماء | Maa | Ordering water |
Food | طعام | Ta'am | Ordering food |
Taxi | تاكسي | Taksi | Asking for a taxi |
Hotel | فندق | Fanduq | Asking for a hotel |
Airport | مطار | Mat'har | Asking for the airport |
Can I use my credit card? | هل يمكنني استخدام بطاقتي الائتمانية؟ | Hal yumkinuni istikhdam bitaqati al-i'timania? | Asking to use a credit card |
Packing List
Clothing
Lightweight clothing
Underwear
Swimwear
Beach cover-up
Sandals
Comfortable walking shoes
Sunglasses
Hat for sun protection
Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
Toiletries
Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Sunscreen
After-sun lotion
Lip balm with SPF
Personal hygiene items
Prescription medications
First-aid kit
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver’s license or ID card
Credit and debit cards
Cash and traveler's checks
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and car rental reservations
Emergency contacts and important addresses
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Headphones
Camera
Charger for camera
Power adapter and converter
Portable power bank
Miscellaneous items
Travel pillow and blanket
Earplugs and eye mask
Snacks
Water bottle
Books or e-books
Travel guide and map
Notebook and pen
Reusable shopping bag
Beach bag
Beach towel
Weather Conditions
Hurghada, Egypt is known for its hot desert climate, so it's essential to prepare accordingly. The city experiences high temperatures throughout the year, with the hottest months being June through September, where temperatures can reach up to 95°F (35°C). Even in the cooler months, from November to February, temperatures can still hover around 68°F (20°C), so lightweight clothing is recommended year-round. Remember to pack plenty of sun protection, including sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses, and a hat. The sun can be particularly intense, especially during the summer months. It's also important to stay hydrated, so always carry a bottle of water with you. Despite the high daytime temperatures, it can get quite cool in the evenings, especially in the winter months, with temperatures dropping to around 50°F (10°C). Therefore, it's a good idea to pack a light jacket or sweater for the evenings. Hurghada is located on the coast, so it can occasionally experience windy conditions. If you're planning on participating in water sports or beach activities, it's worth checking the local weather forecast for wind conditions. Lastly, while rain is rare in Hurghada, when it does occur, it can sometimes lead to flash floods. Always check the local weather forecast and heed any warnings or advisories. In summary, when visiting Hurghada, prepare for hot, sunny weather, but don't forget a jacket for cooler evenings and always stay informed about the local weather conditions.
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 23° / 12° | January is the coldest month in Hurghada, but it's still quite mild with average temperatures ranging from 12°C to 23°C. It's a good time to visit if you prefer cooler weather. |
February | 24° / 13° | February sees a slight increase in temperature, with lows of 13°C and highs of 24°C. The weather is pleasant, making it a great time for sightseeing and outdoor activities. |
March | 27° / 15° | In March, the weather starts to warm up with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 27°C. It's a good time to enjoy water sports and beach activities. |
April | 30° / 18° | April is a warm month with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 30°C. It's a perfect time to enjoy the beautiful beaches of Hurghada. |
May | 34° / 22° | May is quite hot with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 34°C. It's an ideal time for sunbathing and enjoying the crystal clear waters of the Red Sea. |
June | 37° / 25° | June is one of the hottest months in Hurghada, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 37°C. It's a great time for swimming and snorkeling. |
July | 39° / 27° | July is the peak of summer in Hurghada, with temperatures ranging from 27°C to 39°C. It's a perfect time for water-based activities and exploring the underwater world. |
August | 39° / 27° | August is equally hot as July, with temperatures ranging from 27°C to 39°C. It's a great time to enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Hurghada. |
September | 37° / 25° | September sees a slight drop in temperature, with lows of 25°C and highs of 37°C. It's a good time to visit if you prefer less crowded places. |
October | 34° / 22° | October is a pleasant month with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 34°C. It's an ideal time for sightseeing and exploring the local culture. |
November | 30° / 18° | November is a mild month with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 30°C. It's a good time to enjoy outdoor activities and desert safaris. |
December | 25° / 14° | December is a cool month with temperatures ranging from 14°C to 25°C. It's a perfect time to enjoy the festive season in Hurghada. |
Did you know?
Places near by Hurghada, Egypt
Luxor
Known as the world's largest open-air museum, Luxor is home to some of Egypt's most famous monuments, including the Valley of the Kings and the Luxor Temple.
El Gouna
A modern resort town built along the Red Sea, known for its lagoons, coral reefs, and sandy beaches.
Safaga
A port town on the Red Sea, famous for its black sand dunes and mineral springs, which are believed to have curative properties.
Qena
A city on the Nile River, known for its proximity to the Dendera Temple complex, one of the best-preserved temple complexes in Egypt.
Ras Gharib
A city on the Gulf of Suez, known for its oil production and beautiful beaches.
Soma Bay
A coastal resort on the Red Sea, known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and coral reefs.
Makadi Bay
A beautiful beach resort on the Red Sea, known for its sandy beaches and clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and diving.
Port Safaga
A port town on the Red Sea, known for its therapeutic tourism and water sports activities.
