DISTANCE FROM SHARM EL SHEIKH AIRPORT TO THE CITY CENTRE

The Sharm El Sheikh International Airport (IATA: SSH, also known as the Ophira Airport) airport is located at a convenient distance of about 18 kilometres from the centre of the city. Are you a tourist travelling from Birmingham to Sharm El Sheikh? Then be rest assured that there is really good connectivity with the city, no matter which flight class - business class flights or premium economy flight you might be arriving on. To develop the city as a prominent tourist destination, the administration has taken innumerable steps to ensure that tourists can easily reach the destination of their choice. The exact time to complete the journey will depend on a variety of factors like prevailing traffic conditions and the exact time when your flight lands.

SHARM EL SHEIKH AIRPORT TRANSPORT

The following conveyances can be utilized to travel from the airport to your accommodation in the city:-

Public Buses: When you travel from Sharm El Sheikh Airport to inside the city, you can take a bus to complete the journey. Travelling by bus will take you approximately 20 minutes and you will be charged about 3-5 Euros

Taxi: Travelling by airport will take you about 18 minutes and the complete fare will be between 5-7 Euros. English is widely spoken in the city, so communicating with chauffeurs driving will not be an issue.

If you are travelling by first class flights, then you can request the staff of the airline to arrange for pick up and drop off services from the airport.

FLYING TIME FROM BIRMINGHAM TO SHARM EL SHEIKH

When travelling between Birmingham to Sharm El Sheikh, direct flights will take you about 5 hours while transit flights take between 16-18 hours to fully complete the journey. A few common stopovers which you will be encountering while travelling between the two cities are:-

Budapest

Barcelona

Istanbul

Glasgow

Belfast 

London 

Luton

A common query for tourists travelling along this route is what will happen to their luggage while in transit. You might be travelling on economy class flights or any other flight class, be rest assured that your belongings will be kept safe during transit.

ATTRACTIONS IN SHARM EL SHEIKH

Located in the southwest corner of the Siani Peninsula, Sharm el-Sheikh ranks as one of the world''s top diving destinations. In addition to water sports like scuba diving and snorkelling, there is also a lot for tourists to do. Due to the excellent facilities and resorts, this is also a popular holiday destination with families. A brief list of the places which you can pay a visit to while exploring the city are:

Ras Mohammed National Park: Containing some of the world''s most incredible diving and snorkelling sites, the peninsula about 40 kilometres south of the city is also home to a sprawling mangrove forest. When coming here travellers should also head to the Shark Observatory cliff-top, located right on the southern edge of the national park. The best part about visiting here is that you will enjoy breathtakingly beautiful views stretching on both sides of the Red Sea.

Thistlegorm Wreck: If you are a highly skilled diver, then no trip to Sharm El Sheikh is complete by not paying a visit to this wreck. Rated as one of the best sites for diving, the ship was originally carrying supplies for British troops on the front during World War 2 when it was sunk by German bombers. Located in the Straits of Guibal, off the western coast of the Sinai Peninsula, a visit here should be on the cards for all visitors.

Naama Bay: Built right in the middle of white sand beaches and swaying palm trees, Naama Bay is at the very heart of Sharm el-Sheikhs resort life. If you want to enjoy a holiday while doing activities like sunbathing and snorkelling, then you must decide to book your seats in this resort. The entire beach area has many excellent facilities like sunshades, a dedicated bathing area, and many cafes serving you the choicest of Egyptian dishes. The entire sweep of the beach area is partitioned into many separated into areas where you can go and have a merry time.

Jolanda Reef Site: Also, called Yolanda Reef, hands down this reef wins the prize as one of the most popular dive sites in the Ras Mohammad Marine Area. Dive trips here usually include Shark Reef, making this place ideal with an extensive kaleidoscope of fish life and colourful corals to be seen. The reef is named after a wreck Jolanda, an old Cypriot freighter ship which ran aground here in 1980. An array of marine life like scorpionfish, crocodiles, turtles, moray eels and barracuda are all regularly spotted by divers coming here.

Go indulge in Snorkelling activities off Ras Um Sid Beach: One of the city''s best-known snorkelling destinations is the Ras Um Sid beach located at the southern tail of the town, right near the lighthouse. While coming here tourists can simply spend time slouching by the beach, or take snorkelling trips into the water where excellent coral reefs just offshore can also be easily accessed by non-divers. The reef is perfect for first-time forays done by novice divers.

For everybody looking to spend an amazing time by the sea coast, frolicking by the sands a trip to Sharm el Sheikh would be on the cards. You are bound to be mesmerised by its beauty and will surely like to come back for more.

SHOPPING IN SHARM EL SHEIKH

When visiting a tourist destination, the best way to preserve happy memories obtained while sightseeing is to purchase souvenirs. Written below is a small yet exhaustive list of places where you can go to pick up memorabilia in Sharm el Sheikh.

Mall Darya: In this shop, you can find an excellent collection of goods serving the twin purposes roles of gifts and providing all with glimpses into the ancient history of Egypt. Some of the choicest items which you will be able to pick up while visiting this shop are exquisite decorative pieces, clothes, scarves as well as many other beautiful gift items. A must-visit location for all who have come to the city with their family.

SOHO Square: The Square can best be defined as a shopping and entertainment complex all rolled into one. With lots of bright lights and fancy dinner places, all tourists who might be looking to experience what modern-day shopping in Egypt looks like should think of coming here. An added draw for British tourists will be bronze statues of famous personalities like Queen Victoria and Winston Churchill. Roughly 3 hours will be fully sufficient to explore the square in its entirety. 

Egyptian Lionel Richie – Supermarket: A highly popular name in the Naama Bay area of the city, with its great selection of goods available at competitive prices. The supermarket is one of the most suitable venues to shop for bullion, jewellery, natural cosmetics, herbs, leather goods and swimwear. All previous patrons have heaped lavish praise on the hotel staff, thanks to their warm, kind-hearted nature and for going out of their way to ensure that shoppers feel welcome.

Old Market: The old market will leave you in awe with its bustling market where trading happens in spices, textiles and a variety of other Egyptian goods and wares. By rubbing shoulders with locals you will be able to zero down on your choice of trinkets and ornaments to take home with you. An additional draw here is the wide selection of Arabic street food on offer like koftas, kebabs and seafood.

Secret of Egypt: Are you suffering from lifestyle diseases like hypertension, insomnia, high blood pressure and diabetes? Well, then you must decide to drop by here. Alex, the owner has had many years of experience in helping ailing patients get relief. Also, there are many delicious-smelling perfumes as well as soaps which will work wonders for skin-related ailments. 

The places listed above ought to be on the itinerary of any visitor to Sharm el Sheikh. It is a city that is a stunning fusion of the old and new, much like Birmingham. You will undoubtedly relish every second of your search for mementos to remind you of the enjoyable times here.

NIGHTLIFE IN SHARM EL SHEIKH

Sharm el Sheikh''s nightlife is amazing. You might be looking for music lounges, pubs or open-air bars, this city has it all. Some of the most prominent party venues in the city are:

Pacha Nightclub: An iconic nightclub located in the vibrant Egyptian resort town of Sharm el Sheikh. The venue to visit if you are looking for a memorable and exhilarating nightlife experience. Regularly hosting performers of international repute, this is a beautiful magnet for electronic dance music enthusiasts. This nightclub will offer you an unbeatable experience by the Red Sea.

Stargate Disco Club: A legendary nightclub, which is well-known for the vibrant atmosphere it hosts and the exciting nightlife experience that it offers to all patrons. Talented DJs both foreign and international often come to perform here, and it is surely the venue of choice for all looking for a chance to dance to a variety of music genres ranging from house, techno to more.

Sultan Beach Bar: A hidden gem along the picturesque coastline of Sharm el Sheikh, this place transforms into a lively hotspot by night. In its idyllic setting, you can relax on sunbeds while having a merry time sipping on cocktails or dining under the starry sky. This bar provides a beautiful blend of relaxation as well as nightlife in the city.

Chill Out Balm Bar: Built in the heart of Naama Bay, this is a serene oasis which is well known for its laid-back ambience and cosy setting. You might be looking for a refreshing cocktail, cold beer or a flavourful shisha, the exhaustive menu will leave you spoilt for choice. The friendly and affable staff combined with live musical performances, the bar is a favourite with its twinkling lights and beachside location.

Old Market (Sharm el-Maya): If you want to get a more traditional Egyptian experience, then just head to the Old Market. With bustling streets filled with street food stalls and shops selling deftly crafted souvenirs, this is the venue to go to if you wish to explore the local culture as well as try out some authentic Egyptian dishes.

Sharm is generally safe, but like any other city, you should watch out for your belongings and avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas. Whatever your passion is, you are bound to find it in Sharm. A popular party destination among revellers and party animals you should come pay a to the above-mentioned venues here if you wish to see what all the city has to offer.

WHERE TO GET FOREX CONVERTED IN SHARM EL SHEIKH

Are coming to Sharm El Sheikh? Then, it becomes imperative for you to have with you copies of the local tender, the Egyptian Pound. You can go to the following venues to get money exchanged.

Banks: These are everywhere, especially in tourist cities like Sharm El Sheikh, it''''s so easy to find a bank even inside your hotel. Banks in Egypt work all days except Fridays and Saturdays, and they open from 09.00 to 14.00. The ones written below are a favourite with tourists coming to the city.

National Bank of Egypt 

Bank Misr

Bank Du Cairo

Arab-African Bank

An extra commission of 2.5% per cent of the total payment amount will be charged to you when you go to exchange money.

Currency exchange venues in the airport: Currency exchange services are available for travellers to avail in the arrivals hall to Terminal 1. By far the most popular and convenient option for tourists coming here.

Currency Exchange Venues in the city: Additionally, the currency exchange venues written below can also be visited by you to get tenders of the local currency.

GREAT EATING PLACES IN SHARM EL SHEIKH

Egyptian cuisine is famous globally for being a blend of South Asian, African and Middle Eastern flavours. Some of the restaurants which you can visit to see the skills of Egyptian chefs are:

Pomodoro: Do you want to try Italian food? Then this is the hotel to visit. Typical dishes like lasagna, shrimp, squid, pizzas and pasta are prepared by ingredients sourced from the mother country. Buffet facilities also make it a major hit with local beach dwellers and tourists. You are bound to find the flavours delectable. The outlet''s affordability and amiable staff make dining here an enjoyable experience.

Rangoli: An Indian restaurant in the Movenpick resort, which is well-known for serving ingredients from the sub-continent. Additionally, the staff is well trained and motivated and will surely go out of their way to make you feel welcome. With beautiful melodies gently playing in the background, you will have an unforgettable experience.

El Masrien Restaurant: A popular and inexpensive restaurant in the old market of Sharm el Sheikh. After coming here, you can try out typical Middle-Eastern dishes like kebabs and kofta. The dishes served here are cooked using techniques handed down for generations and a wonderful blend of taste and cost. A destination which surely needs to be tried out by tourists and locals alike.

Sala Thai Restaurant: For all Thai and Far Eastern Cuisine fans, this restaurant is the venue to come to. The unique selling point of the restaurant is the spectacular views of the Red Sea which are there to be savoured from the terrace overlooking the bay. With affable staff serving your requests promptly and with a smile, this hotel is worth visiting.

Fares Seafood Genena City: If you are a fan of seafood, then you should decide to come here. Offering all with an opportunity to taste delicacies prepared from freshly caught catch comprising of shrimps, lobsters or grilled mussels cooked right in front of your eyes, coming here is an experience which you should not miss out on. Great food is offered at sensible prices.

Being a famous tourist destination, the dining scene in the city is extremely vibrant. Restaurants serving tasteful dishes from around the world can be found here, and you will be spoilt for choice while eating out.

HOTELS STAY IN SHARM EL SHEIKH

A major tourist attraction on the Sinai Peninsula containing locales of breathtaking natural beauty and historical attractions dating back thousands of years, the city is visited by revellers and pilgrims from coming from far and wide. You might be on the lookout for 5-star luxury or something a bit more affordable, this amazing city has it all. The hotels where you can go and put up while in the Sharm are:

Baron Resort Sharm El Sheikh (5 Star)

Address: Ras Nasrani Bay, Sharm El Sheikh 46619 Egypt

Built by making use of expertise provided by the world''s leading architects, this masterpiece of steel and glass is the ideal venue for visitors coming to Sharm for business purposes. Containing 230 rooms, six restaurants and cafes and Wi-Fi connections throughout the premises, it is well-suited for hosting official meetings and large-scale conferences.

Rixos Sharm El Sheikh (5 Star)

Address: Nabq Bay, Sharm El Sheikh 46628 Egypt

A hotel containing a variety of services such as valet parking, and Wi-Fi, this hotel should figure prominently on the list of accommodations where you can go and put up while visiting the city. Set in the heart of the city, warm Egyptian hospitality from the multilingual staff sets it apart from other five-star hotels. Probably the best thing about this hotel is that the Sharm International Airport is located only five kilometres away and complimentary transportation is provided to and from the airport. Your stay will surely be stress-free.

SUNRISE Arabian Beach Resort (5 Star)

Address: 86 Pyramisa Road Behind Conference Center, Sharm El Sheikh 46619 Egypt

The perfect destination for corporate stays and family retreats, the hotel offers you the perfect setting in a peaceful, urban locale. Located in a posh Sharm locality, by all means, this hotel is for anybody looking for a standard befitting royalty. Containing most of the prominent attractions within a 15-minute walk, it is extremely popular with tourists looking to thoroughly see what the city has to offer.

Virginia Sharm Resort & Aqua Park (4 Star)

Address: El Motelat St. El Hadaba, Sharm El Sheikh 8762524 Egypt

A historic hotel situated right in the centre of the city. Situated close to the Red Sea, you will surely love staying here. A great deal of extra care has been taken to ensure that staff are polished in conduct and are ever ready to assist visitors. An added draw of coming here is that the buffet lunch and dinner and lunch contain an extensive variety of tasty dishes from all across the continent.

Sierra Sharm El Sheikh (4 Star)

Address: SOHO Square, White Knight Beach, Sharm El Sheikh 46628 Egypt

The hotel is surely a class apart, containing about 72 rooms which have been decorated with the latest modern interior design technologies, as well as state-of-the-art entertainment and office facilities. A major hit with tourists coming from all corners of the globe thanks to its proximity to the airport. Charging about USD 250 per night from visitors, the hotel is definitely the best combination of the rate charged and facilities provided.

Amphoras Aqua (3 Star)

Address: 31 Salah Taher St. Om El-Sid Cliff, Sharm El Sheikh 8762621 Egypt

What sets this hotel apart from others, is the high level of personalized service which is provided here. The perfect balance between amenities provided as well as cost is a hit with those travelling on a frugal budget. Thanks to the diligent as well as intelligent efforts of the staff, the hotel has obtained top marks on numerous platforms covering developments in the hotel industry in Sharm el Sheikh. Are you a student or, a backpacker? Then this is surely the hotel where you should decide to come and put up.

Over the years thousands of tourists have come to Sharm el Sheikh and savored the city’s delights. This amazing city will not disappoint you with its multitude of attractions. Just hop on a flight and come over for the adventure of a lifetime.