Old Market Sharm el Sheikh — Local services in South Sinai

Old Market Sharm El Sheikh – A Colorful, Vibrant Experience

The Old Market in Sharm El Sheikh is a must-visit if you’re looking to experience a more traditional side of Egypt beyond the resorts and beach clubs. It’s a vibrant, bustling area filled with charm, character, and a huge variety of shops, cafes, and local flavors.

One of the best things about the Old Market is the sheer diversity of shops—from traditional spice stores and souvenir stands to local clothing, handmade jewelry, leather goods, lanterns, and decorative items. Whether you’re hunting for unique gifts or just want to soak in the atmosphere, there’s plenty to explore.

What makes this market stand out compared to other tourist spots in Egypt is that most vendors are surprisingly respectful. Unlike in other areas where aggressive selling can make the experience uncomfortable, here the sellers are generally friendly and engaging without being too pushy. They’ll invite you in, offer you tea, and chat with you—but they usually respect a polite “no, thank you.”

Another big plus is that prices are flexible. Haggling is part of the experience and even expected. Most items don’t have fixed prices, so you should definitely negotiate. Often, the first price you’re given is high, but if you bargain respectfully, you can walk away with great deals. Just keep it lighthearted—most vendors enjoy the process and will meet you halfway if you’re reasonable.

The market is also beautifully lit at night, creating a magical ambiance, especially around the central mosque, which is a stunning architectural highlight. It’s safe to walk around even in the evenings, and there are plenty of cafes and restaurants if you want to take a break and enjoy local food or a fresh juice.

A few tips: Wear comfortable shoes, bring cash (small denominations help), and take your time—it’s not a place to rush through. Some shops sell similar items, so don’t hesitate to compare prices before you buy.

Overall, the Old Market offers an authentic, relaxed shopping experience with a perfect mix of culture, color, and conversation. Definitely worth spending a few hours here, especially in the evening when the atmosphere...

If Dante had written a 10th circle of hell, it would’ve been the Old Market of Sharm El Sheikh.

The second you walk in, every man suddenly becomes your long-lost cousin. “My friend, my brother, special price just for you!” — and somehow that “special price” is three times the GDP of a small village. Say no once, and congratulations, you’ve just unlocked a 20-minute side quest where five more vendors chase you down the street like it’s the Olympic 100m sprint. Every stall sells the same souvenirs, but with new levels of disappointment. You’ll see plastic pyramids, broken lamps, and “handmade” bracelets still warm from the factory in Guangzhou. I swear if I had accepted every “discount,” I would now own more scarabs than Tutankhamun.

The food? Imagine a kebab so cold it could be used as an ice pack, served with “fresh juice” that tasted like it had been bottled during the Roman Empire. The waiters smile until the bill arrives — then suddenly it’s like you’ve robbed them personally if you don’t leave a tip large enough to fund NASA.

The noise is indescribable: honking horns, aggressive sales pitches, and a background track of “Despacito” playing for the 9,000th time on a broken speaker. Add in the smell — a mix of diesel fumes, cheap perfume sprayed directly in your eyes, and questionable shawarma — and you’ve got a sensory experience you will never forget, no matter how hard you try.

By the end of my visit, I wasn’t shopping anymore — I was negotiating for my own freedom. I went in a tourist and came out a war veteran, scarred, exhausted, and clutching a fridge magnet I didn’t even want.

The Old Market is less of a cultural experience and more of a reality show where the prize is escaping with your wallet intact.

Final verdict? If you enjoy overpriced junk, nonstop harassment, and the unique experience of being treated like a walking credit card, welcome home. Otherwise, do yourself a favor: tell the taxi driver to keep driving. Straight past the Old Market. Straight to literally anywhere...

The Old Market of Sharm El Sheikh is a hidden gem that captivates visitors with its authentic Egyptian charm. Nestled in a lively and colorful atmosphere, this market offers a unique shopping experience, far from the hustle and bustle of modern shopping centers.Wandering through its narrow alleyways, you are enveloped in a mosaic of sounds, colors, and scents. Local vendors proudly display their wares, including traditional handicrafts, exotic spices, colorful textiles, and handmade jewelry, allowing you to discover the true spirit of Egypt.The market is also the perfect place to sample local cuisine. Small cafes and stalls offer a variety of traditional Egyptian dishes, delightful sweets, and the famous Turkish coffee, expertly prepared.One of the most charming aspects of the Old Market is its ability to connect people. Here, visitors can interact with locals, exchanging stories and smiles, learning about Egyptian culture in a way no book could teach.During my visit, I was particularly struck by the array of classic souvenirs. Intricately designed papyrus paintings, depicting ancient Egyptian scenes and hieroglyphics, caught my eye. Beautifully crafted alabaster vases and statues, reflecting Egypt's rich artistic heritage, were also abundant. Fragrant spices like cumin, saffron, and sumac were piled high, alongside an array of herbal teas and traditional sweets like baklava and Turkish delight. Colorful lanterns and hand-blown glass ornaments dazzled in the sunlight, adding to the market's magical ambiance.In conclusion, the Old Market of Sharm El Sheikh is not just a place to shop, but a must-visit destination for anyone wanting to experience the authentic culture and hospitality of Egypt. A trip to this market is a journey into the colors, flavors, and traditions of a fascinating and...