Most visitors stay along the beach, but Hurghada began as a small fishing and port town, and the old quarters still carry that character. A guided city highlights tour is the easiest way to see them. The route listed here takes about three hours in an air-conditioned vehicle with a guide, and covers the El Mina Mosque, with its white domes and minaret near the old harbour, the old town streets and a fruit and vegetable market, a shipyard, the city's oldest Coptic church and the New Marina, where yachts and dive boats moor beside a promenade of restaurants. Entrance fees, including the mosque, are part of the package. The tour is a good fit for a hot afternoon, a day when the sea is rough or the first morning of a trip, and it adds shopping stops for spices, perfumes and souvenirs. It is not a long day, so it combines well with a morning boat trip or a late lunch in the marina.
Visiting the mosque: dress modestly, with covered shoulders and knees, and women should carry a scarf for the head. Shoes come off at the entrance. Visits are normally outside prayer times, and your guide will explain the etiquette and the history. Please be respectful when photographing, and ask before pointing a camera at worshippers.
The old town and market: the older districts, including El Dahar, show daily life in a way the resort strip cannot. Expect narrow streets, small shops, bargaining and smells from spice stalls and the fish and produce markets. A guide helps with prices and with spotting what is local rather than imported. You are not obliged to buy, and you can say no politely to repeat offers.
The marina: the New Marina is the modern face of Hurghada, with moored boats, cafes and a pleasant promenade for the evening. Many dive and snorkel boats leave from here, so you can see the fleet before you choose a trip. The tour we link has a very strong review record, and it is priced well below the cost of a boat day. Bring cash for tips and small purchases, a hat and water. Combine it with the Grand Aquarium or an early dinner on the waterfront.
What to expect
The experience
A private guided city tour by air-conditioned vehicle, visiting the El Mina Mosque, the old town and market, a Coptic church, a shipyard and the New Marina.
Best time
Morning or late afternoon, outside the midday heat and prayer times.
How long
About three hours, including shopping stops.
Tips
Dress modestly for the mosque, carry a scarf, bring cash for tips and shopping and politely decline pressure to buy.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Visitors who want some culture and local life between beach days.
- Families
- Easy for children, with short stops, a car between sights and plenty to see.
- Couples
- A relaxed introduction to the town, ideally ending with dinner at the marina.
- Pair with
- The Grand Aquarium or an afternoon on the beach.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
Can non-Muslims visit El Mina Mosque?+
On the tour listed here, entry to the mosque is included. Dress modestly and follow the guide's advice on prayer times.
How long is the city tour?+
About three hours with an air-conditioned vehicle and a guide. Shopping stops are part of the route.
What is the New Marina like?+
It is the modern harbour with moored yachts and boats, cafes and a promenade. It is a pleasant place to end an afternoon.
Is the tour private?+
The tour is listed as a private guided tour, so you travel with your own party. Check the listing for the group arrangement.
Do I have to buy things at the shopping stops?+
No, you are free to look without buying. A polite no thank you is enough.