Hurghada: attractions to get out of your hotel for
July 12, 2025
Hurghada, located on the shores of the Red Sea, is one of the most popular resorts in Egypt, attracting tourists with its beautiful beaches and luxury all-inclusive hotels. However, staying solely on hotel grounds would be a huge mistake. This bustling city hides fascinating attractions that are worth exploring during your vacation stay. From a miniature park showcasing Egypt's most important monuments, to impressive sand sculptures, to a picturesque marina and underwater adventures, Hurghada offers much more than just beachcombing. Explore the places that will make your stay in this Egyptian resort full of unforgettable impressions and authentic experiences.
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Cultural gems of Hurghada
Hurghada is not only a paradise for beach and water sports lovers. It's also a place where you can immerse yourself in Egypt's fascinating culture without having to travel far into the country. One of the most unique attractions is the Mini Egypt Park, a place that allows you to take a journey through Egypt's most important monuments in just a few hours.
Mini Egypt Park is a miniature park, where more than 55 finely crafted replicas of the most famous Egyptian monuments in 1:25 scale have been collected. Walking through the alleys of the park, you can admire the pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, the temples of Abu Simbel, Luxor, Karnak and many other historical buildings. Each miniature was made with extreme attention to detail, allowing you to appreciate the architectural beauty of these monumental structures. The park is an excellent option for families with children and for those who do not have the opportunity to visit all these sites in their original location. Ticket prices are at an average level, and the visit takes about 2-3 hours. It is advisable to plan it for the morning or late afternoon to avoid the greatest heat.
Another cultural gem of Hurghada is Sand City - the first sand sculpture museum in Egypt and one of the largest in the world. It is a place that delights both adults and children. On the vast grounds you can admire more than 40 impressive sculptures made exclusively of sand and water. The themes of the sculptures range from figures from Egyptian mythology, to scenes from the life of the ancient Egyptians, to modern motifs and characters from fairy tales. Each sculpture is a true work of art that requires not only talent, but also great precision. Artists from all over the world work on these masterpieces, which, despite their apparent impermanence, can last for many years thanks to special techniques and protection from the weather. Sand City is a place that offers not only an aesthetic experience, but also an education on Egyptian history and culture. Admission prices are affordable, and a visit takes about 1-2 hours.
For those interested in marine life, the Hurghada Marine Museum & Aquarium is a fascinating attraction. It is a place where you can learn about the rich flora and fauna of the Red Sea without diving. The museum displays a variety of fish, coral and other sea creatures in carefully prepared aquariums. In addition to live specimens, you can also see a collection of fossils, shells and other marine artifacts. The museum is educational and provides a wealth of information about the Red Sea ecosystem and the dangers posed by human activity. Ticket prices are at an average level, and a visit takes about 1-1.5 hours.
If you want to experience the authentic atmosphere of an Egyptian city, be sure to visit the Hurghada corniche, a seaside promenade that stretches along the coast. It's a lively place, especially in the evenings when the temperature becomes more bearable. As you stroll along the promenade, you can enjoy views of the Red Sea, watch locals spending time talking and playing games, and enjoy local delicacies at the many cafes and restaurants. The promenade is also a great place to buy souvenirs from the numerous stores and stalls. Unlike other attractions, admission to the promenade is free, making it an ideal option for travelers on a tight budget.
When comparing these cultural attractions in Hurghada, it is worth noting that each offers different experiences and benefits. Mini Egypt Park is ideal for those who want to learn about Egypt's history and architecture in a condensed form, without having to travel across the country. Sand City, on the other hand, is a unique attraction that combines art with entertainment and education, offering an unforgettable visual experience. Hurghada Marine Museum & Aquarium is an excellent option for marine life lovers who want to get a better understanding of the underwater world of the Red Sea. The Hurghada corniche, on the other hand, is where you can feel the real pulse of the city and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.
In terms of accessibility, all of these places are relatively easy to reach from most hotels in Hurghada. Mini Egypt Park and Sand City are a bit out of the way, so it's worth taking a cab or organized transportation. Hurghada Marine Museum & Aquarium and the promenade are more central and can be reached on foot from many downtown hotels. In terms of prices, the promenade is obviously the cheapest option, while the other attractions require the purchase of admission tickets, which are, however, at an affordable level compared to similar attractions in Europe.
Underwater and over-water adventures
Hurghada, located on the crystal clear waters of the Red Sea, offers countless opportunities to explore the underwater world, which is one of the richest and most beautiful in the world. One of the most fascinating attractions for lovers of the sea depths is the Hurghada Grand Aquarium - a modern complex that allows you to immerse yourself in the magical world of sea creatures without having to put on diving equipment.
The Hurghada Grand Aquarium is an impressive facility that opened relatively recently and has quickly become one of the city's main attractions. Covering an area of more than 22,000 square meters, there are more than 100 aquariums where you can admire some 1,200 species of sea creatures. The tour takes you through different themed zones that represent a variety of ecosystems - from the coral reefs of the Red Sea, to tropical lagoons, to the ocean depths. Particularly impressive is the 24-meter tunnel through which visitors pass while sharks, rays and other fascinating sea creatures swim above their heads. In addition to the aquariums themselves, the complex also offers interactive educational exhibits that provide an accessible way to learn about the marine ecosystem and the dangers of ocean pollution. Ticket prices are average, and a visit takes about 2-3 hours.
For those who want to experience the underwater world in a more direct way, but are not necessarily ready to dive, an excellent option is the Royal Seascope Submarine. This unique attraction allows you to travel in a semi-submarine boat, the lower part of which is below the surface of the water. Thanks to large panoramic windows, passengers can view colorful coral reefs and exotic fish in their natural habitat. The tour lasts about 2 hours and includes transportation from the hotel. Prices are higher than other attractions, but the experience is truly unique and worth the price.
If you prefer to stay on the surface but still want to enjoy the charms of the Red Sea, be sure to visit Orange Beach, one of the most beautiful public beaches in Hurghada. Unlike many other beaches that are owned by hotels and require an entrance fee, Orange Beach is open to everyone for a small fee. The beach is stunning with golden sand and crystal clear turquoise water. Sun loungers and umbrellas are available (for an additional fee), as well as basic infrastructure such as showers and toilets. There are also bars and restaurants on site where you can enjoy local delicacies. Orange Beach is ideal for relaxing and sunbathing, but also offers water sports such as windsurfing and kitesurfing.
For those looking for an exclusive experience, EDEN ISLAND HURGHADA is a real gem. Located near the coast of Hurghada, this private island offers a luxurious getaway away from the hustle and bustle of the city. To get to the island, you need to buy an excursion, which includes boat transportation, sun loungers, umbrellas and often meals and drinks as well. Prices are higher than at other beaches, but the quality of service and unique atmosphere fully compensate for this. Eden Island is famous for its beautiful sandy beaches, crystal clear waters ideal for snorkeling, and luxurious amenities such as beach bars and restaurants serving fresh seafood.
One of Hurghada's most picturesque destinations, which combines the pleasure of being by the water with shopping and entertainment opportunities, is Hurghada Marina. This modern marina is not only a berth for luxury boats, but also a lively promenade with numerous restaurants, cafes, stores and boutiques. The marina is especially charming in the evening, when the colorful lights come on and the restaurants fill with guests. It's the perfect place to take a romantic stroll, dine overlooking the moored yachts or shop for souvenirs in the elegant boutiques. Admission to the marina is free, making it accessible to any tourist.
When comparing these waterfront and underwater attractions of Hurghada, it is worth noting that each offers a different experience and is aimed at a slightly different audience. The Hurghada Grand Aquarium is an excellent option for families with children and for those who want to explore the underwater world, but are not ready to dive. Royal Seascope Submarine offers a more direct experience of the underwater world, but comes at a higher cost. Orange Beach is ideal for those who want to enjoy the beach without having to pay for expensive excursions or admission to exclusive beach clubs. Eden Island, on the other hand, is for those who are looking for a luxury experience and are willing to pay for it. Hurghada Marina, on the other hand, is a place that combines the opportunity to relax by the water with entertainment and shopping.
In terms of accessibility, most of these attractions require transportation from the hotel. In the case of the Hurghada Grand Aquarium and Royal Seascope Submarine, transportation from the hotel and back is often included in the ticket price. Orange Beach can be reached by cab or local transportation, and the cost is relatively low. Eden Island requires the purchase of a tour, which includes boat transportation. Hurghada Marina is centrally located and can be reached on foot from many downtown hotels or by cab from more remote resorts.
In terms of pricing, the cheapest option is to visit Hurghada Marina, which does not require an entrance fee (though of course the cost of meals or shopping can be high). Orange Beach requires a small entrance fee plus the possible cost of renting sunbeds and umbrellas. Hurghada Grand Aquarium offers tickets in the mid-price range, while Royal Seascope Submarine and Eden Island are the most expensive options, but also offer the most unique experiences.
Discovering the charms of the Hurghada area
Hurghada, while offering many attractions in its own right, is also an excellent base from which to explore the fascinating sites in its vicinity. One such place that is definitely worth a visit is Old Town Sahl Hasheesh, a charming town located about 20 kilometers south of Hurghada's center.
Old Town Sahl Hasheesh is part of the luxury Sahl Hasheesh resort, which was designed to resemble a traditional Egyptian town with elements of Arabic and Mediterranean architecture. Unlike modern Hurghada, Old Town delights with its atmospheric narrow streets, colorful buildings with domes and arches, and beautiful fountains. The centerpiece of the town is a charming square with numerous cafes and restaurants, where you can relax in the shade of palm trees and enjoy local delicacies. A picturesque promenade stretches along the coast, offering spectacular views of the turquoise waters of the Red Sea. Old Town is also famous for its beautiful sunsets, which can be enjoyed from numerous vantage points. Admission to the town is free, and you can get there by cab from Hurghada in about 30 minutes. The cost of the ride is about average.
For those who want to explore Hurghada and its surroundings in a more organized way, consider using the services of local tour agencies such as Tierra Tour Hurghada. This reputable office offers a wide range of tours, both sea and land-based. Among the most popular offerings are boat trips to paradise islands and coral reefs, jeep safaris through the desert, trips to Luxor and the Valley of the Kings, or evening folklore shows. The agency is known for its professional service, experienced guides who speak multiple languages and competitive prices. Tours organized by Tierra Tour are tailored to different age groups and interests, so there is something for everyone. Prices for tours vary depending on the destination and program, but are generally kept at an average level compared to other tour agencies in Hurghada.
An alternative to Tierra Tour is Ladybug - Hurghada tours, a tourist office aimed mainly at Polish tourists. The name, which refers to a popular store chain in Poland, makes the bureau easily recognizable to Poles. Biedronka offers a similar range of tours as Tierra Tour, but its main advantage is service in Polish, which is a great convenience for those not fluent in English. The office enjoys good reviews among Polish tourists, who value it for its professionalism, punctuality and friendly atmosphere. Prices are comparable to other tourist offices in Hurghada, and there are often promotions and discounts for regular customers.
For those who prefer a more exclusive and personalized experience, Hurghada trips vip is an excellent option. This agency specializes in organizing luxury tours for smaller groups or even individual tourists. The offerings include private yacht cruises, helicopter flights over the desert and Red Sea, diving in the most pristine areas or exclusive safaris with overnight stays in the desert. All tours are tailored to individual clients' needs and preferences, and service is top-notch. Prices are, of course, higher than for standard group tours, but the quality of service and unique experiences fully compensate for this.
One of the most fascinating dive sites in the Hurghada area to visit with a professional guide is the Gota Abu Galawa Dive site. This site is famous for its rich coral reef, variety of marine life and the wreck of a small ship that rests at a shallow depth, making it accessible even to novice divers. Numerous species of colorful fish and sometimes even dolphins or sea turtles can be found around the wreck. The site is accessible only through organized diving tours, the prices of which vary depending on the agency and the scope of services.
Comparing these options for discovering the Hurghada area, it is worth noting that each offers a different experience and is aimed at a slightly different audience. Old Town Sahl Hasheesh is an excellent option for those who want to explore the charming places around Hurghada on their own and are not afraid to arrange transportation on their own. Tierra Tour and Ladybug are proven agencies offering a wide range of group tours at affordable prices, ideal for those who appreciate the convenience of organized trips. Hurghada trips vip is for the most demanding clients who are looking for an exclusive and personalized experience. Dive site Gota Abu Galawa is a place that will delight all diving enthusiasts, whether beginners or advanced.
In terms of accessibility, Old Town Sahl Hasheesh is relatively easy to reach by cab from Hurghada, although there is a cost involved. All of the tour agencies listed offer hotel pickup and return after the tour, which is a great convenience. Dive site Gota Abu Galawa is accessible only by boat, as part of organized dive tours.
As for prices, the cheapest option is a self-guided visit to Old Town Sahl Hasheesh, which requires only transportation costs. Tours organized by Tierra Tour and Ladybug are in the middle price range, while Hurghada trips vip services and dive tours to Gota Abu Galawa are among the more expensive options, but also offer the most unique and memorable experiences.
All in all, the Hurghada area hides many fascinating places to discover during your vacation stay. Whether you prefer independent exploration, organized group tours or exclusive, personalized experiences, you're sure to find something that will make your stay in Hurghada full of unforgettable experiences. It's worth going beyond the hotel grounds and discovering the true face of this fascinating region of Egypt.
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