Egypt · 2026
Weekend in Hurghada
How to spend 2 days in Hurghada — a Friday-to-Sunday plan covering the highlights without the tourist-trap detours. Built from real attraction data.
Arrive and Settle In
Friday evening is for arriving, checking in, and getting oriented. Keep it simple — a short walk to get your bearings, then dinner near the hotel.
El Dahar Square and Old Market
Free 1.0km from centreThe historic heart of Hurghada, with a lively open-air market selling spices, fabrics, and souvenirs. No entry fee, just wander the stalls and soak up the atmosphere.
Tip: Go in the early evening when it's cooler and the market is buzzing. Haggle politely but firmly for souvenirs.
Al Mina Mosque
Free 1.5km from centreThe largest mosque in Hurghada, with striking Ottoman-style architecture and a tall minaret. Non-Muslims can visit outside prayer times.
Tip: Remove shoes and cover shoulders/knees. The guard may offer a free guided tour if you ask politely. Best visited mid-morning.
Friday dinner pick
The Main Sights
Saturday is your main sightseeing day. Start early to beat the crowds at the top attractions, then take the afternoon at a slower pace.
Hurghada Marina Walk
Free 24/7, but shops and cafés openA pleasant waterfront promenade with views of yachts and the Red Sea. Benches, cafés, and a few small playgrounds. Good for a stroll.
Tip: Come at sunset for the best light and quieter crowds. Bring a bottle of water from a kiosk—café prices are steep.
Public Beach (e.g., Mahmya Beach area alternative)
Free Daylight hours, access free atA free, local stretch of sand on the Red Sea. Basic facilities, clear water for swimming, and no entry charge. No sunbeds or umbrellas—bring your own towel.
Tip: Head north of the marina to the small public access points. The water quality is fine but busier on Fridays. Arrive by 9am to get a decent spot.
Marine Museum (Hurghada Museum)
0 Sat-Thu 9am-5pm, Fri 1pm-5pmSmall but informative museum with exhibits on local marine life, Red Sea history, and traditional fishing. Cheap entry fee (about £3).
Tip: Pay the extra £1 for the audio guide—it adds context to the displays. Allow 45 minutes to an hour. Cash only.
Saturday dining
Before You Leave
Sunday morning, before checkout, is for the things you didn't fit in on Saturday — or a slower revisit of the place you liked most.
Sunday brunch
Getting Around Hurghada
Downtown Hurghada (El Dahar stop) → El Arusa Hotel (Sheraton Road)
El Arusa Hotel → Hurghada city centre / Marina
Hurghada International Airport → El Arusa Hotel
El Arusa Hotel → Makadi Bay / Sahl Hasheesh
Where to Stay for a Hurghada Weekend
For a short break, stay central — walking distance to the main sights saves hours across a 2-day itinerary.
Weekend in Hurghada — FAQ
Is a weekend enough to see Hurghada?
A weekend (2 full days) is enough to cover the highlights of Hurghada. You can see the main attractions, eat at a couple of good restaurants and get a real feel for the city — as long as you prioritise well. This guide is structured to help you do exactly that.
When is the best weekend to visit Hurghada?
See our full best time to visit Hurghada guide. For a weekend break, shoulder season (spring and autumn) typically offers the best balance of good weather, manageable crowds and reasonable hotel prices.
Where should I stay for a weekend in Hurghada?
For a short break, stay as central as possible — walking distance to the main sights saves significant time and lets you head out after dinner without worrying about transport. See the best hotels in Hurghada for rated options. TripSage's free briefings tell you the specific rooms to request at each property.
How do I get around Hurghada for a weekend?
The main transport options in Hurghada include Minibus (shared microbus) and Local Taxi. For a short stay, walking and public transport are usually the most time-efficient combination — parking in most city centres adds cost and delays.