Hurghada City Guide

Food ranges from local Egyptian dishes like koshary and falafel to Italian, Chinese, and Indian cuisine. Vegetarian options are common; vegan options require asking. Many places open late in tourist areas.

Nightlife is lively around Sekalla and the Marina with bars and nightclubs mostly inside resorts.

Mix of traditional Egyptian coffee shops and some modern cafes. Specialty coffee scene is small but emerging.

Tipping (baksheesh) is expected for most services. 10-15% in restaurants if no service charge. Small tips for taxis and guides.

SIM cards available at the airport and stores. Main providers are Vodafone, Orange, and Etisalat. Passport required for registration. eSIM availability varies.

Tourist areas and resorts are generally clean. Local areas may be less tidy. Recycling is limited.

Many pharmacies and minimarts open late or 24/7. Some clinics offer after-hours care. Late-night dining options are common in tourist areas.

Supermarkets have international products but limited specialty items. Fresh markets offer local produce. Supermarkets like Spinneys, Metro, and Carrefour are common.

Cards are widely accepted in hotels, big restaurants, and tourist shops. Cash is preferred for markets, taxis, and smaller purchases.

ATMs are common in tourist areas and near banks. Check your bank for international fees before withdrawal.

International schools include German School Hurghada, Russian School Hurghada, and GEMS International School. Instruction languages vary. Contact schools for admissions details.

Small but growing nomad community. Meetups informal, mostly online. Some co-living options exist.

Few public parks; green areas mainly inside resorts. Shaded walking is limited outside resorts.

Running routes along promenades and resorts. Traffic caution advised outside tourist areas.

Several gyms are available, mostly inside resorts or as standalone facilities.

Many resorts offer tennis courts with equipment rental and coaching options.

Padel courts are growing in popularity, especially in new developments like El Gouna.

Some yoga studios and many resorts offer classes with English-speaking instructors.

Gyms may offer boxing and kickboxing. Dedicated dojos are limited. English-speaking instructors occasionally available.

No skiing in Hurghada or Egypt due to desert climate.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, windsurfing widely available. Equipment rentals and tours offered year-round.

Better known for windsurfing and kitesurfing than traditional surfing. Schools and rentals are widely available.

World-class diving with clear waters and rich marine life. Many certified dive centers and equipment rentals available year-round.

Private hospitals like El Gouna and Nile Hospital have English-speaking staff and better facilities. Pharmacies are common and offer OTC meds. Overall healthcare quality is decent.

Tap water is not safe for drinking. Stick to bottled water.

Resorts have playgrounds and kid-friendly cafes. Baby supplies are available. Attractions include water parks, aquariums, and snorkeling trips suitable for families.

Egypt is conservative with no legal protections or public safe spaces. High discrimination risk.

Many places do not allow pets. Veterinary services and some pet supplies exist but pet-friendly accommodations are rare.