7 Days in Hurghada — A Slow, Balanced Itinerary
A calm 7-day Hurghada itinerary that blends sea time, desert silence, local food, and real rest — without rushing or overplanning.
7 Days
Slow, Balanced
The Rhythm
Arrive & Marina Evening
Morning: Arrival at Hurghada International, transfer to your stay. Afternoon: Slow settle-in at the pool or resort beach. Unpack the gear and the mind. Evening: Sunset stroll at the Hurghada Marina, followed by dinner at a waterfront seafood grill. Optional swap: Arriving late? Skip the Marina and have a quiet meal near your stay. Budget note: Taxis from the airport are fixed-price but always agree before you get in ($10-15).
The Island Day (Giftun)
Morning: Boat departure for the Giftun Islands. Afternoon: Powder-white sands at Orange Bay or Mahmya, with two snorkeling stops at vibrant reef gardens. Evening: Return to the mainland for a relaxed resort dinner. Optional swap: Choose a private speedboat for a shorter, more flexible island trip. Budget note: Group boat trips are $25-40 including lunch and gear. Reef-first note: Corals at the islands are fragile; stand only on sandy patches.
Desert Spirit (Safari)
Morning: Late breakfast and slow morning by the sea. Afternoon: 14:00 Jeep or Quad safari into the Red Sea Mountains. Evening: Watch the sun dip behind the peaks with Bedouin tea and a traditional desert dinner. Optional swap: Swap the jeep for a sunrise desert run if you prefer the cool morning air. Budget note: Shared safaris are excellent value ($20-30).
Optional Luxor Day
Morning: 05:00 departure for Luxor; cross the Nile to the Valley of the Kings. Afternoon: Explore the massive Karnak Temple complex on the East Bank. Evening: Return to Hurghada by 21:00 for a well-deserved rest. Optional swap: Too much travel? Stay local and explore the Sahl Hasheesh promenade. Budget note: Small group tours are much more flexible than large buses ($80-100).
Under the Surface
Morning: Take an Intro Dive at a shallow reef or descend in the Sindbad Submarine. Afternoon: Post-water rest or a spa session at your resort. Evening: Dinner at Sheraton Road for authentic city vibes. Optional swap: Try a kitesurfing taster lesson in El Gouna if the wind is up. Budget note: Street food in Sakala is incredibly cheap and delicious. Reef-first note: Keep your fins away from the coral; maintain perfect buoyancy.
Family & Local Soul
Morning: Visit the Hurghada Grand Aquarium to see the Red Sea tunnel. Afternoon: Explore the El Mina Mosque and the bustling local Fish Market. Evening: Sunset stroll and spice shopping in the narrow streets of El Dahar (Old Town). Optional swap: Skip the town for a full day-pass at a southern waterpark. Budget note: Walking through the fish market is free, but tipping a few EGP for photos is custom.
Soft Farewell
Morning: Last sunrise swim or a final walk along the Marina. Afternoon: Souvenir shopping at Senzo Mall for fixed-price Egyptian treasures. Evening: Departure. Optional swap: Sunrise horseback riding in the desert for a memorable final scene. Budget note: Senzo Mall is the best place for groceries and local snacks to take home.
Quick answer (the short version)
A perfect week in Hurghada mixes easy sea days, one or two desert escapes, slow mornings, and early nights. You don’t need to book everything in advance. Leave space. Hurghada fills it naturally.
Last Reviewed: 2026-02-02
Questions about 7 Days in Hurghada — A Slow, Balanced Itinerary
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Keep Exploring
Snorkeling Boat Day
Clear turquoise waters and vibrant coral gardens. Explore the Red Sea's most beautiful reefs by boat.
Giftun Islands
Mahmya and Orange Bay offer the classic Red Sea day trip: white sand, turquoise water, and boat vibes.
Desert Safari & Sunset
Race through the Red Sea Mountains on a quad bike or jeep, ending with Bedouin tea under the stars.
Day Trip to Luxor
Journey from the coast to the Valley of the Kings. Witness the grandeur of Ancient Egypt in a single day.
Hurghada Grand Aquarium
Walk through the Red Sea tunnels and see the marine life up close without getting wet.
El Dahar (Old Town)
The authentic soul of Hurghada. Vegetable markets, local coffee shops, and real Egyptian daily life.
Scuba Diving
From your first "Intro Dive" to legendary shipwrecks. Hurghada is the gateway to the Red Sea's depths.
Hurghada Marina
A clean promenade lined with yachts, restaurants, and evening breeze. The social heart of the city.