Sharm El Sheikh: City of Peace

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Sharm El Sheikh: A Perfect 3-Day Escape to Egypt's Red Sea Paradise

Sharm El Sheikh, on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, is a destination that caters to everyone—from those seeking the thrills of the deep blue sea to those wanting to immerse themselves in the desert’s tranquil beauty. With its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and dramatic desert landscapes, Sharm El Sheikh offers a rich blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Here’s a more in-depth look at how to spend three unforgettable days in this Egyptian gem.

Day 1: Dive into the Red Sea

Your first day in Sharm El Sheikh should be all about the iconic Red Sea. After checking into one of the resorts in Naama Bay, the main hub of Sharm, take a moment to absorb the relaxed vibes of the bay. It’s a great place to unwind and soak in the views of the turquoise water against the backdrop of desert mountains.

Naama Bay is famous for its wide sandy beach, vibrant atmosphere, and many cafes and shops. You’ll want to spend a little time here getting acquainted with the area. Maybe stop by a café and try a traditional mint tea while you gaze at the gently lapping waves, or explore the local shops for some souvenirs.

But no visit to Sharm is complete without experiencing its underwater world. After lunch, head out to Ras Mohammed National Park, a short drive from Naama Bay. Ras Mohammed is a protected marine reserve, known globally for its extraordinary diving spots and vibrant coral reefs. Whether you’re an experienced diver or new to the sport, Ras Mohammed has something for everyone.

If you're new to diving, book a guided diving session or a snorkeling tour with one of the many local operators. The coral gardens here are teeming with marine life—giant sea turtles, rays, colorful schools of fish, and vibrant coral formations. The waters are remarkably clear, with visibility often reaching up to 30 meters. Not interested in diving? A glass-bottom boat tour can still give you the chance to see the incredible marine world without getting wet.

By the evening, head back to Naama Bay. As the sun sets, the bay becomes a perfect spot for a relaxed dinner. Many of the restaurants here serve fresh seafood, so don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in grilled fish or lobster while watching the sunset over the Red Sea. As night falls, Naama Bay comes alive with music and lights, offering a perfect introduction to the evening ambiance of Sharm.

Day 2: Desert Adventures and Bedouin Hospitality

For day two, you’ll trade the sea for the desert. The Sinai Desert is an essential part of Sharm El Sheikh’s appeal—offering rugged beauty, exciting activities, and insight into the traditions of the Bedouin people who have lived here for centuries.

Start your day with a quad bike or jeep safari adventure. These tours take you deep into the desert, where you’ll zip across sandy dunes and traverse rocky outcrops. The stark contrast of the desert's vast expanse against the sky is simply breathtaking, offering a completely different experience compared to the tranquil beaches. During these tours, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop and admire the raw beauty of the desert landscape, perfect for some memorable photos.

Most of the desert tours also include a visit to a Bedouin village, where you’ll be welcomed with traditional hospitality. The Bedouins are known for their warmth and hospitality, offering you a taste of their lifestyle. Sit down for a cup of mint tea, learn about their nomadic way of life, and get an insight into how they’ve survived in such an unforgiving environment. You might even get the chance to try Bedouin bread cooked in the sand, a unique culinary experience that gives you a real taste of desert life.

After the cultural stop, you can choose to either continue your desert adventure with a camel ride at sunset or head back to your resort for some relaxation. Camel rides through the desert as the sun dips below the horizon are magical, providing a calm and reflective experience as you watch the colors change across the sky.

In the evening, return to Sharm El Sheikh and enjoy a traditional Egyptian meal at one of the local restaurants. The food here is diverse, but be sure to try koshari (a hearty dish of lentils, rice, pasta, and fried onions) or moussaka (a baked eggplant dish), both of which are staples in Egyptian cuisine.

Day 3: Culture, History, and Final Relaxation

On your final day, it’s time to explore the rich cultural and historical layers of Sharm El Sheikh’s surroundings. While the city is best known for its modern resort scene, there are significant historical sites within a short drive, and your first stop should be St. Catherine’s Monastery. Located about 2.5 hours from Sharm, St. Catherine’s Monastery is one of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world, set against the awe-inspiring backdrop of Mount Sinai.

The monastery itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site, home to ancient manuscripts, religious relics, and priceless icons. It is also said to be the site of the burning bush, where Moses encountered God, adding a sense of deep spirituality to the visit. After exploring the monastery, those with a sense of adventure can hike up Mount Sinai to the summit, where it’s believed Moses received the Ten Commandments. The hike takes about two hours, but the panoramic views of the surrounding desert and mountains are well worth the effort.

Return to Sharm El Sheikh in the afternoon and take the rest of the day to unwind. You might want to relax on the beaches once again, or perhaps treat yourself to a luxury spa experience at one of the resorts. After a few days of adventure, some well-deserved pampering will feel heavenly.

For your final evening, head to SOHO Square, an entertainment complex located in the heart of Sharm. It’s a great place for dinner, shopping, or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere. With a mix of international restaurants, cafes, and shops, SOHO Square offers everything from high-end dining to more casual options. Don’t forget to browse the boutiques for a final souvenir or two—a piece of jewelry or a handwoven scarf might be just the thing to remind you of your Sharm El Sheikh escape.

Wrapping Up Your Sharm El Sheikh Adventure