Hurghada, located on Egypt’s stunning Red Sea coast, is one of the world’s most exciting travel destinations — a place where crystal-clear waters, endless sunshine, golden deserts, and ancient culture come together to create the perfect vacation setting. Whether you’re visiting for adventure, relaxation, or exploration, Hurghada offers an incredible variety of excursions that suit every traveler’s style.
Planning a full week in Hurghada means balancing your time between the sea, the desert, Egyptian culture, and relaxation. In this guide, you’ll find a day-by-day itinerary for spending a perfect week in Hurghada — filled with adventure, cultural discoveries, island hopping, romantic moments, and vibrant nightlife.
Day 1 – Arrival and Relaxation by the Red Sea
Your first day in Hurghada should be all about adjusting to the climate and easing into the Red Sea rhythm. After checking in at your hotel, take some time to explore your surroundings. Most resorts have private beaches and pools where you can spend your first afternoon soaking up the Egyptian sun.
In the evening, visit Hurghada Marina Boulevard, the city’s modern seaside promenade filled with restaurants, cafés, and small shops. It’s the perfect spot for your first dinner overlooking the yachts and the calm waters. Choose local seafood and enjoy the gentle breeze as the sun sets over the Red Sea.
If you’re feeling tired after your journey, unwind with a spa session or traditional hammam treatment in your hotel. Many resorts offer full wellness packages, including massages, body scrubs, and aromatherapy sessions — the best way to start your vacation relaxed and refreshed.
Day 2 – Explore the Red Sea Islands and Snorkeling Spots
No trip to Hurghada is complete without exploring the breathtaking islands that lie just off its coast. The second day of your itinerary is dedicated to a boat trip and snorkeling adventure.
Join a full-day excursion to one of the famous islands such as Giftun Island, Paradise Island, or Orange Bay. These islands are surrounded by turquoise lagoons and coral reefs that host colorful marine life — from clownfish and angelfish to rays and sea turtles. Most tours include snorkeling stops at multiple reef sites, as well as free time to swim or relax on white-sand beaches.
Onboard, you’ll typically enjoy a freshly prepared lunch and soft drinks while soaking in the sun on the deck. For those seeking extra excitement, many tours offer parasailing or banana boat rides near the islands.
After returning to your hotel in the late afternoon, spend your evening relaxing or taking a peaceful walk along the beach. You can enjoy dinner at your resort or try one of the charming restaurants along Sheraton Street, where you’ll find everything from local Egyptian cuisine to international dishes.
Day 3 – Desert Safari Adventure and Bedouin Experience
The Egyptian desert surrounding Hurghada offers one of the most exciting experiences for visitors — a desert safari tour. The third day of your Hurghada itinerary is dedicated to adventure.
Start the day with a thrilling quad biking or buggy ride through the golden dunes. Whether you choose a solo quad or a double buggy, the sense of freedom as you speed through the sand is unforgettable. You’ll stop for photos and admire the vast desert views stretching endlessly toward the horizon.
Next, visit a Bedouin village, where you’ll meet local people who have lived in the desert for generations. Learn about their traditions, taste freshly baked Bedouin bread, and enjoy a cup of sweet herbal tea.
In the evening, most safari tours end with a BBQ dinner and folklore show under the open sky. Watch traditional belly dancing, fire shows, and Tanoura performances as the sun sets and the stars appear over the quiet desert. This day combines adventure, culture, and a touch of magic — a highlight of any Hurghada trip.
Day 4 – Day Trip to Luxor: Ancient Egypt at Its Best
One of the great advantages of staying in Hurghada is its proximity to Egypt’s most famous historical sites. On the fourth day, embark on a day trip to Luxor, often called the world’s greatest open-air museum.
The journey to Luxor takes about four to five hours, but it’s worth every minute. Once there, you’ll explore ancient treasures on both sides of the Nile River.
Start with the Valley of the Kings, the burial place of pharaohs such as Tutankhamun and Ramses II. Step inside the beautifully decorated tombs that reveal thousands of years of history. Then visit the Temple of Hatshepsut, built in honor of Egypt’s most famous female pharaoh.
After lunch, cross to the east bank of the Nile and explore the magnificent Karnak Temple Complex, one of the largest religious sites ever built. Its towering columns, ancient hieroglyphs, and sacred lake are awe-inspiring.
You can also take an optional felucca boat ride on the Nile before heading back to Hurghada in the evening. The Luxor day trip is long but incredibly rewarding, offering a deep insight into the heart of ancient Egypt.
Day 5 – Diving, Submarine Tours, or Relaxed Beach Day
After a day filled with ancient wonders, day five gives you the chance to focus again on the Red Sea’s incredible marine world.
If you love adventure, try a beginner scuba diving course or a two-dive excursion with professional instructors. The Red Sea is famous for its excellent visibility, colorful reefs, and friendly sea life. Even first-time divers can safely explore coral gardens and underwater landscapes.
If diving isn’t your preference, consider a snorkeling boat trip or a journey on the Sindbad Submarine, which descends 20 meters below the surface to reveal the underwater beauty without getting wet. This option is especially popular among families with children.
For those looking for a slower pace, spend the day at your hotel’s beach. Enjoy cocktails by the pool, book a relaxing massage, or simply let the sea breeze wash away all stress.
In the evening, explore Hurghada’s nightlife again — visit one of the beach clubs or rooftop lounges for cocktails and live music.
Day 6 – Romantic Sunset Cruise or Private Yacht Tour
As your week nears its end, it’s time for a romantic and unforgettable experience on the Red Sea. Day six is all about romance, peace, and breathtaking views.
Book a private boat trip or join a sunset dinner cruise. These tours combine comfort, fine dining, and the beauty of the sea. As you sail along the coast, you’ll enjoy the changing colors of the sunset reflecting on the water while savoring a freshly prepared dinner.
Some private tours even include snorkeling stops or dolphin-watching opportunities, making it a day filled with both relaxation and wonder.
For couples, this day is perfect for celebrating love — imagine having dinner on deck under a sky full of stars, with soft Red Sea waves around you.
If you prefer to stay on land, another great option is a sunset desert tour with a camel ride and a small Bedouin-style campfire dinner. The desert’s golden glow at dusk is equally magical.
Day 7 – Hurghada City Tour and Farewell
On your final day, take time to discover Hurghada itself. Many visitors spend their days on excursions and forget to explore the city, which offers a fascinating blend of traditional Egyptian life and modern resort charm.
Join a Hurghada city tour, which typically includes stops at the El Dahar old town, the Coptic church, and the El Mina mosque near the marina. Wander through the local markets filled with spices, souvenirs, and handmade crafts. This is the best place to buy gifts such as papyrus art, perfumes, or Egyptian cotton products.
After your city tour, return to your hotel for a final swim or some time by the pool. Reflect on the experiences of the week — from the colorful coral reefs and ancient temples to the warm smiles of the locals and the desert’s endless horizons.
In the evening, have your farewell dinner at a seaside restaurant or enjoy one last walk along the marina before your flight home.
Optional Add-Ons for Longer Stays
If you’re lucky enough to have more than a week in Hurghada, consider extending your itinerary with one or more of these additional excursions:
- Cairo by Plane – Visit the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum in a single day.
- El Gouna Day Trip – Explore this luxurious nearby resort town with lagoons, cafes, and kite-surfing.
- Dolphin House Tour – Swim and snorkel in areas known for frequent dolphin sightings.
- Hamata Islands – Ideal for experienced snorkelers who want to see untouched coral reefs.
- Abu Dabbab Bay (Marsa Alam) – Famous for sea turtles and the chance to spot a dugong.
Practical Tips for a Perfect Hurghada Week
Best Time to Visit:
Hurghada is a year-round destination, but the best months are March to May and October to December, when the temperatures are warm but not extreme.
What to Pack:
- Swimsuits and light beachwear
- Comfortable shoes for walking and desert excursions
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
- Light jacket or scarf for cool desert evenings
- Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
- Camera or underwater GoPro for snorkeling trips
Safety and Comfort:
Hurghada is a safe and tourist-friendly city. Always book excursions through reputable companies, follow your guide’s safety instructions, and wear appropriate clothing when visiting cultural or religious sites.
Local Etiquette:
Egyptians are warm and welcoming. It’s respectful to greet with a smile, dress modestly when off the beach, and ask permission before photographing locals.
Money and Tipping:
The local currency is the Egyptian pound. Tipping (baksheesh) is common and appreciated — small amounts for drivers, guides, and waiters show gratitude for good service.
Conclusion – Your Unforgettable Week in Hurghada
Spending a week in Hurghada is like living through seven unique travel experiences — each day offering something completely different. One morning you’re diving among coral reefs; the next you’re watching the sun set over the desert or exploring the tombs of pharaohs. The mix of adventure, relaxation, culture, and natural beauty makes Hurghada one of the most versatile destinations in Egypt.
This 7-day itinerary captures the very best of the Red Sea region:
- Arrival and relaxation by the beach
- Snorkeling and island hopping
- Desert safari and Bedouin culture
- Ancient wonders of Luxor
- Diving or submarine adventures
- Romantic sunset cruise
- City tour and farewell
Hurghada combines the soul of Egypt with the beauty of the Red Sea, offering travelers a perfect blend of excitement and peace. Whether you’re coming for the coral reefs, the golden sands, or the rich cultural heritage, your week here will leave you with memories that last a lifetime — and a longing to return.
