If you’re thinking about heading to Hurghada and have a few questions before you go, you’re not alone. This Red Sea resort town is a favourite for sun-seekers, divers, and anyone after an easy, beachy escape. Whether you’re planning your first visit or just curious about what to expect, we’ve rounded up some of the most common questions about Hurghada to help you feel more prepared. From where to stay and when to visit, to safety tips and day trip ideas, this guide covers all the essentials in one place.
1. What continent and country is Hurghada in?
The beach resort town of Hurghada is located in Egypt, North Africa. It sits along the Red Sea coastline, making it a hotspot for travellers from around the world, particularly European countries like the UK.
2. Is Hurghada better than Sharm el-Sheikh?
There’s no definitive answer as to whether Hurghada is better than Sharm el-Sheikh, as it depends on personal preferences and interests.
Hurghada is well-known for its diverse marine life and stunning beaches. A lot of snorkelling and windsurfing enthusiasts are attracted to this location. However, it’s still an incredible destination for families, couples, and solo travellers due to the wide range of things to do and more affordable accommodation options.
Alternatively, Sharm el-Sheikh is a more well-known destination, popular for its vibrant nightlife and high-end resorts that cater to luxury travellers.
3. Is Hurghada close to the pyramids?
The pyramids of Giza are situated in Cairo, which is over 200 miles away from Hurghada. However, it’s common for visitors to take a day trip to the ancient wonders.
4. How to get to Cairo from Hurghada?
There are a few options to travel to Cairo and see the pyramids from Hurghada.
Tour excursions
For travellers who want to leave the planning to the experts, several tour operators offer trips to the pyramids. This is often via a group tour in a mini-bus or coach, private car journey, or flight.
Travelling by air
The flight between Hurghada and Cairo is around one hour long, making this the quickest option. Aside from via tour excursions, travellers can plan this independently.
Browse flights on websites such as Skyscanner and Google Flights to find the best options, but aim for an earlier departure and late arrival time to ensure you can enjoy your time in Cairo before returning to the airport. Remember to prepare for earlier check-in times at the airport and how long it may take to get through to the gate.
The downside of flying to Cairo is that flights can be unpredictable. When booking independently, you are at risk of flight cancellations or delays that can impact your trip. It is also a very long day for most people.
Sometimes, a night’s stay in a hotel in Cairo could be worth booking to reduce time pressures.
Travelling by car
Another choice is driving, although hiring a professional driver is usually recommended. The car journey from Hurghada to Cairo is around five to six hours, making this a twelve-hour round trip before seeing the pyramids. The drive is long and can be further impacted by traffic and road disruptions, so it’s essential to take regular breaks and prioritise the safety and health of yourself and other drivers.
5. When is the best month to visit Hurghada?
Hurghada has good weather pretty much all year round. However, the suggested best times to visit are March to May (springtime) or September to November (autumn). During these seasons, the weather is often warm but not too hot to enjoy beaches and outdoor activities.
As a tourist hotspot, Hurghada is also a popular destination to spend the Christmas season.
6. What’s the weather like in Hurghada?
Located in Egypt, Hurghada has a desert climate, making it sunny all year.
The summer months can be extremely hot, with temperatures above 38 degrees Celsius. Winters are milder, but daytime temperatures still often reach between 22 °C and 26 °C. The evening temperatures are much cooler in the winter, so a jacket is definitely recommended.
7. What are some of the things to do in Hurghada
There’s plenty to keep you busy in Hurghada, whether you’re into adventure or simply want to relax. Popular experiences include:
- Swimming with wild dolphins – Always book with an ethical provider who puts animal welfare first.
- Desert safaris – Choose from camel rides, quad biking or jeep tours for an unforgettable desert adventure.
- Giftun Islands – Perfect for a beach day, snorkelling, or soaking up those Red Sea views.
- Hurghada Marina – A lively spot for dining, shopping, and evening strolls by the water.
- Sand City Sculpture Museum – An open-air museum with incredible, large-scale sand art.
- Stargazing tours – Learn about Bedouin culture and spot constellations in the peaceful desert sky.
8. Is Hurghada a good place to visit?
Definitely! Hurghada is a beautiful destination and perfect for a wide range of tourists. Whether you’re looking for a budget option or luxury experience, relaxation or adventure, Hurghada offers such a wide range of resorts and activities that many travellers will agree that it’s a good place to visit.
9. Is Hurghada safe to visit?
Yes, Hurghada is generally considered safe for tourists. However, like anywhere, it’s essential to stay alert, follow local advice, and avoid less-populated areas at night. Opt for reputable tour companies, especially when venturing into the desert.
10. Where not to go in Hurghada?
While most areas in Hurghada are welcoming and safe, tourists might want to avoid remote or unregulated areas, especially without a guide. Stick to popular neighbourhoods like Sheraton Street (Downtown Hurghada) or Makadi Bay to ensure a pleasant experience.
11. What area to stay in in Hurghada?
For my first trip to Hurghada, I stayed at Jaz Aquamarine, and it was exactly what I was looking for – relaxed, all-inclusive, and packed with everything on-site. The resort is situated in the Magawish/Golden Five resort zone, just south of El Mamsha and near the airport. This area is ideal for families or couples looking for a hassle-free, resort-style holiday with plenty of dining options, pools, and entertainment all in one place.
For first-time visitors or families, El Mamsha (Village Road) is a fantastic choice. It’s central, walkable, and close to restaurants, shops, and public beaches. If you’re after a more peaceful, upscale escape, consider Sahl Hasheesh or Makadi Bay. Both are known for their private beaches, luxury resorts, and quieter atmosphere.
For something a bit more boutique and self-contained, El Gouna (about 30 minutes north of Hurghada) offers a stylish, marina-side setting with a more laid-back, luxury, European feel.
If you’re seeking a deeper cultural experience, Hurghada may not be the best fit, as the city is largely built around tourism. In that case, other regions of Egypt, such as Luxor, Aswan, or Cairo, may better suit your interests.
Curious about the other side of Hurghada?
Discover a more personal perspective in our story Hurghada’s Hidden Stories: The Driver with No Name.
