Historical in 140km south of Hurghada, Red Sea, Red Sea
Quseir (Al-Qusayr)
Quseir is an ancient port city 140km south of Hurghada with a remarkably preserved Ottoman-era fort and historic coral-brick buildings. Once one of the most important trading ports on the Red Sea — used by ancient Egyptians, Romans, and medieval traders — Quseir retains a distinctive character untouched by mass tourism. The Ottoman Fortress (built 1571) overlooks the sea and contains an interesting museum. The town's reefs are excellent and almost uncrowded.
Hours: Ottoman Fort: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM; town accessible 24 hours
Best time: October to April
Best for: history lovers, divers, architecture enthusiasts, off-the-beaten-path travelers
Location
Quseir, Red Sea Governorate, Egypt
26.1000, 34.2833 — View on map
Tips
- The Ottoman fortress museum displays relics of the ancient spice trade and medieval pilgrimage routes to Mecca
- The coral-brick buildings in the old town are unique to the Red Sea and extremely photogenic
- Quseir has excellent, uncrowded reefs accessible from shore — bring your own snorkeling gear