Where the Red Sea Meets the Market: Exploring Sharm el Sheikh Old Town (Sharm el Maya)
A compact, sensory-rich slice of Sharm—where reefs meet souks and seafood follows history.
The first time you push through the low wooden door into Sharm el Maya—Sharm el Sheikh’s Old Town—the air changes. The spray of the Red Sea punctuates the scent of cinnamon and cardamom. Fishermen lean on the jetty, nets drying like lace in the sun; just beyond them, a tangle of alleys unfurls, rimmed with stalls selling copper lamps, woven scarves and glass beads that catch the light like a thousand small, deliberate reefs. You are not in a sanitized beach resort any longer; you are in a place where the sea, the market and the mosque rub shoulders.
Trail Wisdom
Go early or late
Visit the Old Market in early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat and get the best light for photos.
Bring cash in small bills
Many vendors prefer Egyptian pounds and small denominations make bargaining and small purchases easier.
Wear sturdy shoes
Streets are uneven and sometimes sandy—closed-toe shoes with good tread make walking more comfortable.
Hire a local guide for context
A private cultural tour delivers history, stops at viewpoints and helps you navigate the souk and mosque etiquette efficiently.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Climb to the Peace Memorial viewpoint for a panoramic view of the bay at sunset
- •A small waterfront café near the fishing jetty where locals gather for mint tea and shisha
Wildlife
Red Sea reef fish visible from the shallow shore (choose tide-friendly spots), Migratory seabirds along the bay in cooler months
Conservation Note
The nearby coral reefs are fragile—avoid touching coral, use reef-safe sunscreen, and support local vendors to keep the Old Town’s economy community-centered.
Sharm el Sheikh began as a small fishing settlement and coral port before the 1970s–80s development turned it into an international resort; Old Town preserves that maritime past.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: pleasant temperatures, snorkeling in shallows, market browsing
Challenges: windy days possible, early bloom of summer crowds
Spring is mild and comfortable—ideal for walking the Old Town and dipping into the water; expect occasional wind off the gulf.
summer
Best for: early morning market runs, long daylight for photos, beach time
Challenges: very high daytime heat, limited midday activities
Summer brings intense heat; plan activities for mornings and evenings and use air-conditioned transfers between stops.
fall
Best for: seafood dinners at sunset, diving and snorkeling, comfortable sightseeing
Challenges: increasing tourist numbers, occasional high temperatures early in season
Fall is the sweet spot for sea and market—warm water, comfortable evenings and lively dining scenes.
winter
Best for: quiet streets and cooler hikes, clear views from viewpoints, off-season travel bargains
Challenges: cooler nights, shorter daylight hours
Winter days are cool and clear—perfect for exploration without crowds, though evenings need warmer layers.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Protects feet on uneven, sandy alleys and during short climbs to viewpoints.
Light sun layer and hatEssential
Shields you from strong sun during midday market visits and waterfront walks.
Small daypack with water bottleEssential
Keeps purchases, water and sunscreen handy while you wander the souk.
Compact camera or smartphone with extra battery
Captures the alleyway details and coastal light—golden hour is especially photogenic.
Common Questions
How much time should I set aside for the Old Market?
Plan 1.5–3 hours to wander, shop and visit a mosque or two; add another hour for a seafood meal if you stop for dinner.
Is the Old Town safe to walk alone?
Yes—during daylight hours it’s generally safe; exercise normal travel caution, avoid isolated alleys at night, and keep valuables secured.
Do vendors accept credit cards?
Most small stalls prefer cash (Egyptian pounds); larger shops and restaurants may accept cards—carry cash for bargaining.
Can I visit religious sites if I’m not Muslim?
Yes; visitors are welcome at most mosques outside prayer times—dress modestly and remove shoes when requested.
How do I get from Naama Bay or my hotel to the Old Town?
Private transfers or organized city tours offer door-to-door service; taxis are available but confirm the fare in advance.
Are the seafood restaurants safe for tourists?
Yes—popular places like local waterfront restaurants serve fresh-caught fish; choose busy, clean spots and follow your guide’s recommendations for quality.
What to Pack
Sturdy walking shoes for uneven alleys, reef-safe sunscreen for shore snorkeling, cash in small Egyptian pound notes for bargaining, lightweight scarf for sun and mosque visits
Did You Know
Sharm el Sheikh was developed into an international resort after the Sinai Peninsula was returned to Egypt in 1982, transforming fishing villages like Sharm el Maya into tourist destinations.
Quick Travel Tips
Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid heat; carry small bills for markets; agree fares with taxis in advance; book a half-day private tour for efficient history and shopping.
Local Flavor
Try a seaside dinner of grilled catch at a family-run restaurant after bargaining in the souk; mingle with locals over mint tea and shisha at the waterfront cafés; pick up hand-blown glass or brassware crafted by local artisans to support the community.
Logistics Snapshot
Getting there: 10–20 minutes by car from Naama Bay; Language: Arabic—guides often speak English; Money: Egyptian pound; Cash-friendly souk; Dress: modest for religious sites; Best time: morning or late afternoon.
Sustainability Note
Choose reef-safe sunscreen, minimize single-use plastics, and buy from local artisans to ensure tourism dollars stay within the community and support conservation of nearby coral reefs.