Many people choose to combine a relaxing holiday by the Red Sea with the sights of Ancient Egypt and the era of the pharaohs. Excursions to Luxor from Hurghada are available either by plane, departing from the Hurghada airport, or by bus. The most popular excursion to Luxor is on a full day basis, with an early morning departure, but you also have the choice to spend a night in Luxor and see the awesome sights in two days.
Alternatively, you may like to hire a car and go at your own pace. Here are some vehicle hire companies in the Hurghada district:

Monasteries of St. Paul & St. Anthony

Hidden deep in the Eastern Desert Mountains,at around 200 km north of Hurghada, lie the two monasteries which founded Christian monasticism. Built in the IV century AD, these monasteries are a must see for any history buff. Two self-contained villages with mills, wells, bakeries and orchards, these monasteries are where Coptic monks still observe rituals that have hardly changed in 16 centuries. With timeless devotion, the monks conserve the precious icons and hundreds of Middle Age manuscripts which they will proudly show to any visitor. The easiest way to visit both monasteries is to hire taxi for the day. Call the Coptic Patriarchate in Cairo at 02 9600025 to check about opening times and closing days.

Wind Surfing

For wind surfing holidays, Hurghada is a must, it is where the Red Sea adventure began. Wind surfers were coming here before there was an international airport, the 3-4 hour transfer from Luxor was worth it. Now it is a well established resort for wind surfers,divers and sun worshippers with the airport only 10 minutes away.
There is wind throughout the year, with some of the best in the Summer. It is also very popular in winter as it is a good break from the British climate. The original fishing village has now built up into an international resort with many hotels stretching along the coast to the north and south of the town. It is worth a visit to the old part of town at Osaka where you will find the real Egypt.

Giftun Island

Giftun Island is the Hurghada hallmark visible from the whole 45 km city coast a coppery desert island reachable in about an hour boat trip. Part of the Red Sea Islands National Park, it boasts the most beautiful tropical-like beaches in the area. Only recently, special permission from the government has allowed the establishment of a couple of beach bars and restaurants: a true must for whoever visits the region. Most diving centers and tour operators offer a full day excursion to this paradise. A day spent snorkelling on the outstanding reefs around the island, lounging later on on the sparkling white sand beaches or swimming in the turquoise lagoons makes an unforgettable experience and the kids will love it too!

Sindbad Submarine

For those who prefer to stay dry but still want to discover the impressive underwater life and the million hues of blue in the Red Sea, this yellow submarine is an unique experience. A half-day journey with Captain Nemo to see with your own eyes what Jacques Costeau dubbed an underwater paradise. The submarine transports up to 44 passengers and dives down to 22 m. underwater. Tickets and departure from Sindbad Beach Resort, South Corniche, Hurghada, or check with your tour leader.