25 Essential Hurghada Travel Tips Every Visitor Should Know

A little local knowledge turns a good Hurghada trip into a great one. Over the years I have answered the same questions hundreds of times, so I have gathered the most useful answers here. These 25 tips cover money, transport, food, safety, and the small cultural details that help you blend in and enjoy the city like a local.

Money and Payments

1. 1The local currency is the Egyptian pound. Carry small notes, as many shops and taxis struggle with large change.
2. 2Cards are accepted in malls, hotels, and bigger restaurants, but cash is king in markets, taxis, and small cafes.
3. 3Use ATMs inside banks or malls for the best rates and security. Withdraw a few days of cash at a time.
4. 4Tipping, known as baksheesh, is part of the culture. A few pounds for good service is appreciated and expected.

Bargaining and Shopping

1. 1Haggling is normal and friendly in the bazaars. Start at about half the asking price and meet somewhere in the middle.
2. 2Prices in supermarkets and malls are fixed, so save your bargaining energy for the markets.
3. 3Walk away with a smile if the price is not right. Often the seller will call you back with a better offer.
4. 4Buy spices, cotton, and handmade souvenirs in El Dahar for the most authentic prices.

Getting Around

1. 1Use Uber or Careem when you can. The apps show a fair price upfront and remove the need to haggle.
2. 2For street taxis, always agree the fare before you get in. Short trips cost 1 to 3 euros.
3. 3Tuk tuks are cheap and fun for short hops within a neighbourhood, usually under one euro.
4. 4Arrange your airport transfer in advance through your host to avoid the arrival hall scramble.

Insider tip: save your apartment location in Arabic on your phone. Showing a driver the Arabic name avoids confusion and gets you home faster.

Food and Water

1. 1Drink bottled water, which is cheap and sold everywhere. Use it for brushing teeth too if your stomach is sensitive.
2. 2Try the local street food like koshary and falafel. It is delicious, fresh, and very cheap.
3. 3Eat fresh fish at the busy local seafood places where the turnover is high and the catch is the same day.
4. 4Carry hand sanitiser and pace yourself with new foods for the first day or two.

Health and Safety

1. 1Hurghada is a calm and safe tourist city. Use the same common sense you would in any destination at night.
2. 2Pharmacies are everywhere, well stocked, and staff often speak English. Bring any specific medication you rely on.
3. 3Wear strong reef-safe sunscreen. The sun is more intense than many visitors expect, even in winter.
4. 4Note the location of the nearest private clinic to your apartment, just in case.

Culture and Etiquette

1. 1Dress is relaxed in resort areas but more modest in the old town and at religious sites. Cover shoulders and knees when visiting a mosque.
2. 2Learn a few Arabic greetings. A simple shukran, meaning thank you, goes a long way.
3. 3Ask before photographing local people, especially women, out of respect.
4. 4Buy a local SIM card on arrival for cheap data. You will need your passport to register it.

Making the Most of Your Trip

1. 1Book sea excursions in the morning when the water is calm and the light is best.
2. 2Avoid the midday sun in summer. Plan indoor or shaded activities between noon and four.
3. 3Ask your host for recommendations. Locals always know the best value and the hidden gems.

Keep these tips in mind and you will navigate Hurghada like a seasoned visitor from day one. The city rewards a little curiosity and a friendly attitude, and the people here are genuinely happy to help. If you have a question we have not covered, message us any time. Helping our guests feel confident and at home is the part of the job we love most.