Sharm el-Sheikh is the main tourist center of the Sinai Peninsula and one of the best diving destinations in the world.

It was the wonders of the Red Sea – particularly in the Ras Mohammed Marine Reserve south of the city – that put Sharm in the lead, and diving here still attracts millions of enthusiasts every year.

It is also one of the Top Destinations in Egypt If you just want to relax on the beach, it is a particularly popular destination for family holidays due to the excellent facilities found here.

So, plan your trip with our list of top attractions and things to do in Sharm El Sheikh.

Top Tourist Attractions in Sharm El Sheikh

Sharm El Sheikh - Ras Mohammed National Park

This reserve is what put Sharm El Sheikh on the tourist map.

It has some of the most amazing diving sites in the world, and is home to some amazing beaches too.

It also has the second largest mangrove forest in the world, and a saltwater lake.

The best beaches here are Aqaba Beach (with its amazing coral reefs that are easily accessible from the shore).

Visitors looking for a good view should head to the Shark Observatory cliff at the top right of the southern edge of Ras Mohammed National Park, where views extend across both sides of the Red Sea.

Sharm el-Sheikh

One of the beaches of Ras Mohammed National Park

Sharm El Sheikh - Naama Bay

Surrounded by a white sandy beach and swaying palm trees, Naama Bay is one of Sharm El Sheikh's most beautiful tourist destinations.

There are plenty of restaurants, cafes and souvenir shops here if you get tired of the sand, but Naama Bay is more about its beach.

There is also a wonderful promenade that surrounds the entire beach area, backed by a group of luxury resorts.

For those looking for a sun-filled vacation, Naama Bay is one of the best options in Egypt.

In addition, the entire beach area has excellent facilities, including ample sun umbrellas and lounge chairs, and plenty of cafes and restaurants.

Naama Bay Area

Sharm El Sheikh - Ras Umm Sid Beach and Reefs

Ras Um Sid is one of the best beaches in Sharm El Sheikh, located at the southern end of the city, near the lighthouse.

Here, people come to the beach to go snorkeling in the water where there are excellent and picturesque coral reefs.

Away from the sand, Ras Umm Sid is ideal for a first-time dive experience, and is used by many local dive instructors as a training site for beginners.

Sharm el-Sheikh

Ras Umm Sid Beach

Historic Saint Catherine's Monastery

This monastery is the most important historical destination in the Sinai Peninsula, located at the foot of Mount Sinai.

This Greek Orthodox monastery is also one of the oldest operating monasteries in the world, and is also home to a museum that displays some of the oldest religious icons and manuscripts.

A day trip here is one of the top things to do for history buffs, which can also include a climb to the top of Mount Sinai.

Historic Saint Catherine's Monastery

Mount Sinai

For one of the best rock views, climb to the top of Mount Sinai to see vast expanses of orange peaks spread out before you.

For the record, the mountain is revered by all three monotheistic religions, and climbing the summit is a pilgrimage for many people (and is usually combined with a visit to St. Catherine's Monastery).

There are two main paths through which you can climb to the top.

Either by camel track which is not a popular way, or by a set of stone stairs which is more difficult, but gives you the opportunity to see the stunning views, which were carved by one of the monks of the monastery.

Sharm el-Sheikh

Mount Sinai

Shark Bay

At the northernmost tip of Naama Bay is Shark's Bay, which is home to some of the most luxurious five-star resorts and hotels in Sharm El Sheikh.

This is where you go if you want complete tranquility on your vacation.

The dining hub of Soho Square Mall includes some of the best restaurants and cafes in Sharm El Sheikh, in addition to many diverse shops.

Shark Bay