Farsha Cafe is one of the best-known places in Sharm el-Sheikh for sitting back and watching the Red Sea. Built in a traditional Bedouin-inspired style, it spreads along a cliff top with low cushioned seating, lanterns and palm-leaf roofing, so that every table looks over the water and the harbour below. Visitors come for tea, coffee, juices and shisha, for the sunset and for photographs, and many reach it as part of a short guided tour that also takes in the Old Market. It is a place to slow down rather than to tick off a sight, which makes it a welcome counterweight to the reef and desert days elsewhere on a Sharm itinerary. This entry covers a guided visit with a private driver and a flexible stop at the cafe.
What the visit looks like
A driver collects you from your hotel and takes you along the coast to the cafe, usually in the late afternoon so that you arrive before sunset. You sit on the cushioned terraces, order from the menu and take as long as you like, with the guide or driver on hand to explain the surroundings.
Many tours combine the stop with the Old Market and SOHO Square, so the cafe becomes one stage in an evening rather than the whole outing. Drinks and food are normally paid for separately, so ask what the ticket covers and carry some cash.
Atmosphere and etiquette
The cafe is relaxed and unhurried, with the traditional seating giving it a different feel from the modern bars of Naama Bay. Shisha is part of the culture here, but it is not for everyone, and you can enjoy the view with tea or a cold drink instead. Dress is casual, although covering shoulders and knees is respectful and keeps you comfortable if the sea breeze picks up. Sunset is the busiest time, so arrive early if you want a table at the edge, and expect some music and conversation around you.
Who it suits and how to fit it in: this is an easy, low-cost outing for couples, for older travellers and for anyone resting after a long excursion day. It pairs well with the Old Market and Al Sahaba Mosque, which are close by, and it works as a sunset stop before dinner.
Because it is outdoors, it is more pleasant in the cooler months and in the evening than at midday in summer. Menus, opening hours and seating change, and the cafe can be crowded at weekends and holidays, so confirm the timing with your operator and keep your plans flexible.
Making the most of it
Aim to arrive about an hour before sunset so that you can choose a seat, order a first drink and watch the light change over the water. Bring a light scarf or jacket for the breeze, a charged phone for photographs and a little cash in small notes for the bill and tips.
If you are travelling with a group, ask the driver how long you can stay, because a flexible tour lets you linger over a second round of drinks. Afterwards, the Old Market and the lights of the town are a short drive away, so you can easily continue the evening with dinner.
What to expect
The experience
A guided or private-driver outing from your hotel to a cliff-top sea-view cafe, often combined with a stop at the Old Market.
Best time
Late afternoon to sunset, in any season; summer middays are too hot to enjoy the open terraces.
How long
Two to three hours including the transfer.
Tips
Carry cash for drinks and food, arrive before sunset for the best seats and dress casually but modestly.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want a slow, scenic evening stop with a view over the Red Sea.
- Families
- Fine for families with older children, though the seating is low and there is no play area, so keep little ones close.
- Couples
- A romantic sunset spot with lanterns, cushions and sea views, and not much effort required.
- Pair with
- The Old Market and Al Sahaba Mosque, or dinner on the Naama Bay promenade.
- Time needed
- Two to three hours.
Good questions
Is the cafe ticket-only?+
The cafe itself is a place to order food and drink. The tour covers the transfer and guiding, so ask what is included and expect to pay for your own drinks.
Do I have to smoke shisha?+
No. Tea, coffee, juices and cold drinks are served, and many visitors come only for the view.
When is the best time to go?+
Late afternoon into sunset gives the best light and cooler air. Midday in summer is very hot on the open terraces.
Is it suitable for children?+
Yes for older children who can sit calmly, but the seating is low and the cliff-top setting needs supervision.
What should I wear?+
Casual, comfortable clothes with covered shoulders and knees, and a light layer for the evening breeze.
