Is Sharm el-Sheikh expensive to visit?
In Sharm el-Sheikh, budget travelers spend $47 (E£2,233) per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $107 (E£5,104) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $205 (E£9,754) per day. These costs are calculated from the reported expenses of previous travelers to Sharm el-Sheikh.
Sharm el-Sheikh is a small yet captivating destination that lures visitors with differing travel styles, spending levels, and budgetary preferences. Budget-conscious travelers will find suitable hotel options, but there are also high-end hotels for those seeking luxury, plus mid-range accommodations for families or couples.
If you choose to make it so, Sharm el-Sheikh can be very pricey, but you can reduce your expenses by looking for discounts and coupons.
Within Africa, Sharm el-Sheikh is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Marrakech or Drakensberg.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Sharm el-Sheikh Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Sharm el-Sheikh?
The average Sharm el-Sheikh trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Sharm el-Sheikh travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Sharm el-Sheikh cost?
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's important to set realistic expectations for your travel budget. Many assume they can get by cheaply in Sharm el-Sheikh, but most people don't enjoy traveling on a very tight budget. Think about how you like to travel, and whether you prefer resorts, hostels, or vacation rentals. Do activities like sightseeing and dining out matter to you? These factors will help shape your travel budget.
Sharm el-Sheikh on a Shoestring Budget?
You may believe you're traveling on a budget, but unless you're ready to give up some conveniences, you'll likely spend much more than the $47 daily average that backpackers get away with.
Younger budget travelers often stick to this low budget by staying in dorms, eating inexpensive meals, taking public transportation, and focusing on free activities and sights.
Do You Fit the Profile of an Average Traveler?
If you're a couple or a family traveling for fun, you'll likely want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at popular restaurants, and visit the major museums and attractions which have entry fees. It's a common desire for visitors to Sharm el-Sheikh to experience the major attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Most activities cost money, after all. Therefore, it's realistic to expect your actual daily budget to be closer to $107 per person, per day.
In Sharm el-Sheikh, you'll find a broad range of hotels and vacation rentals. If traveling with companions, you can share accommodations with a partner, friend, or your children, helping to cut costs. Families will want to look for hotels and restaurants that are kid-friendly. Club Reef Village is a fantastic option for families, and Parrotel Beach Resort is also a great pick. Explore more family and couple-oriented hotels in our hotel guide for Sharm el-Sheikh here.
Seeking a Stylish Getaway from the Daily Routine?
If you want a vacation with premium amenities and superior service, brace yourself for a price near $205 daily. Choosing upscale hotels, dining at award-winning eateries, enjoying lavish excursions, and using taxis or private drivers around the destination will require a luxury budget.
Accommodation Budget in Sharm el-Sheikh
The price of hotels in Sharm el-Sheikh can be quite surprising. Higher-end hotels offer more luxury and amenities, but with much higher price tags, especially during peak season. Off-season averages are around $84, while peak season averages can reach $157. Prices range from $42 to $276, but hostels are usually cheaper. Traveling during the low season and booking early are good ways to save money.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Sharm el-Sheikh for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $83 (E£3,929). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $41 (E£1,964) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Sharm el-Sheikh? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Sharm el-Sheikh include:
- Aqua Blu Sharm El Sheikh starting at $128
- Rehana Sharm Resort - Aquapark & Spa starting at $92
- Coral Sea Sensatori Resort starting at $150
- Sentido Reef Oasis Senses Aqua Park Resort starting at $157
- Club Reef Village starting at $121
Choosing to travel in the shoulder or low season and avoiding will help you save on lodging costs and escape the tourist rush.
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Transportation Budget in Sharm el-Sheikh
Calculated from travelers like you
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On average, past travelers have spent $22 (E£1,036) per person, per day, on local transportation in Sharm el-Sheikh. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Sharm el-Sheikh is significantly more than public transportation.
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Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$22
E£1,036
Sharm el-Sheikh International Airport connects the town with destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and within Egypt, and it is just a short taxi ride to most downtown hotels. There is no public train service, but microbuses and shared taxis are cheap ways to travel around town and between major sights. Naama Bay and Sharm el Maya are very walkable, but for longer distances, taxis and rideshare services are widely available-be sure to agree on the fare beforehand or insist on the meter. Many budget hotels offer free or discounted shuttle services to the main beaches and SOHO Square. Rental cars are available but often unnecessary due to compact city layout and affordable local transport. For day trips to Ras Mohammed National Park or excursions into the Sinai Desert, consider joining a group tour or hiring a driver for convenience and safety. Cycling is not common due to the heat and road conditions, but some areas have pedestrian-friendly promenades perfect for strolling.
How much does it cost to go to Sharm el-Sheikh? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Sharm el-Sheikh will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Sharm el-Sheikh
For many, the local food is a significant part of the travel experience, so don't miss the chance to enjoy it.
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Sharm el-Sheikh can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Sharm el-Sheikh is $48 (E£2,274) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
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Food2
Meals for one day
$48
E£2,274
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Sharm el-Sheikh is around $48 (E£2274) per person, with previous travelers spending from $21 to $91. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Sharm el-Sheikh are as follows:
- Breakfast: $5 to $14
- Lunch: $7 to $19
- Dinner: $14 to $33
- Coffee: $4
- Fast Food or Street Food: $7
Egyptian cuisine and international flavors blend seamlessly in Sharm el-Sheikh. Budget travelers will find numerous cafes, casual beach shacks, and street food stalls serving up falafel, koshari, and shawarma. Seafood is abundant-grilled fish, calamari, and shrimp are best enjoyed fresh from the Red Sea at waterside restaurants. Fine dining spots offer everything from traditional Egyptian mezze to Italian and Asian cuisine, though you'll find the best deals and local flavors off the main tourist strips. Cooking classes teaching Egyptian favorites like molokhia and stuffed peppers are also on offer. Popular restaurants include Fares Seafood (affordable local seafood), El Masrien in the Old Market for Egyptian classics, and El Kababgy for grilled meat specialties. For a sweet treat, try an Egyptian pastry at a local bakery or sip strong Arabic coffee at an open-air cafe.
Several hotels include breakfast with your stay, while others charge separately for it. The cost and quality can vary significantly depending on the hotel. Knowing this in advance can guide your budget decisions. It could be worth it for the tasty buffet available at the hotel, or you may wish to find a cheaper option at a local bakery or cafe.
Bring your own water bottle instead of grabbing drinks on the fly. It's better for the environment as well.
If you're considering a tour, double-check which meals are included in the package. There may be instances where you'll have to pay for your own meals, potentially stretching your budget.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Sharm el-Sheikh
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Sharm el-Sheikh typically cost an average of $29 (E£1,393) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
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Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$29
E£1,393
One of the main draws in Sharm el-Sheikh is Ras Mohammed National Park, celebrated for its world-class snorkeling and some of the Red Sea's most beautiful coral gardens. Naama Bay is the heart of the city, offering a bustling walking promenade lined with shops, cafes, and a buzzing nightlife. The Old Market (Sharm el Maya) is an atmospheric spot to experience more traditional Egyptian sights, with stalls laden with spices, souvenirs, and local textiles. For a touch of history, visit the nearby Saint Catherine’s Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site at the foot of Mount Sinai, which makes a popular day trip. Al Mustafa Mosque and the Coptic Orthodox Church of Heavenly Cathedral showcase stunning architecture and spiritual significance. Don’t miss SOHO Square, a modern entertainment complex that lights up at night with fountains, restaurants, and family-friendly bars. For underwater adventures without getting wet, the glass-bottom boat tours provide a close look at the Red Sea’s marine life.
Sharm el-Sheikh is an outdoor playground. Scuba diving and snorkeling are top activities, with dive shops offering affordable packages to legendary dive sites such as the SS Thistlegorm wreck and the reefs of Tiran Island. Windsurfing, parasailing, and jet-skiing are popular along the coast. For those who prefer to stay above water, quad biking or camel trekking through the desert at sunset is an unforgettable experience. Mount Sinai hikes, particularly the sunrise ascent, attract both spiritual seekers and adventure lovers. Day trips can take you to colored canyons and Bedouin camps for a glimpse into local traditions. At night, you can join a desert stargazing tour. For a less active day, unwind at one of the public beaches or explore lively bazaars. Sharm el-Sheikh is also known for its affordable spa treatments and beachside yoga classes.
A nice way to explore destinations in Sharm el-Sheikh is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Sharm El Sheikh: Saint Catherine's Monastery Private Tour for $185 details
- Cairo: 2-Day St Catherine Monastery & Mt Sinai Private Tour for $432 details
- From Sharm or Dahab: Blue Hole & Canyon Sea Dive Experience for $177 details
Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.