Sharm El-Sheikh: Cafe & restaurant – Farsha or New Panorama

This review takes a close look at two popular spots in Sharm El-Sheikh: the lively Farsha Mountain Lounge and the cozy New Panorama Sharm Cafe & Restaurant. From what we’ve gathered, these experiences are often bundled with round-trip transfers, making them a convenient way to enjoy the local nightlife and scenic views.

What makes these experiences stand out? We love their stunning sunset vistas, the chance for stargazing with telescopes or binoculars, and the cultural performances you can enjoy at New Panorama. On the flip side, some reviews highlight issues with organization and communication, so it’s worth knowing what to expect.

If you’re someone who appreciates a mix of relaxation, local flavor, and entertainment, these tours could be perfect. They’re especially ideal for travelers wanting a hassle-free way to add some lively evening moments to their trip without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Stunning Sunset and Stargazing: Both cafes offer incredible views, especially at sunset, with opportunities to gaze into the night sky.
• Convenient Transfers: Round-trip hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics simple, regardless of where you’re staying.
• Cultural Entertainment: New Panorama features live shows like Tanoura, fire dancing, and belly dance, adding vibrancy to the evening.
• Affordable Price: At around $15 per person, the experience offers good value, especially considering the transport and entertainment included.
• Mixed Reviews on Organisation: Some guests have reported issues with guides, wait times, and organization, so manage expectations accordingly.
• Adult-Only or Family Visit Timing: Farsha Cafe has specific hours for families with kids, so plan your visit accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What You Can Expect

The Journey Begins – Ease of Transportation

One of the best parts of booking this experience is the round-trip transfer included. Whether you choose the Farsha option or New Panorama, a private driver will pick you up from your hotel in an air-conditioned car. This eliminates the hassle of navigating local taxis or trying to find your way after dark, especially since Sharm El-Sheikh’s streets can be lively and a bit overwhelming for newcomers.

In practice, timing options are typically around 6:00 PM or 6:30 PM for the Farsha Cafe, with pickups scheduled conveniently. For the New Panorama experience, the start times are around 8:45 PM or 9:00 PM, aligning with the sunset and evening entertainment. Some guests mention slight variations in pickup times, so it’s smart to confirm your window and be ready a few minutes early.

The Farsha Mountain Lounge – Cozy, Scenic, and Relaxed

Farsha is known for its rustic decor, perched on a mountain that offers breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding landscape. It’s a favorite for sunset watchers and those wanting a quieter, more intimate environment — at least before the crowds arrive at night.

However, reviews suggest some inconsistency in seating arrangements. One guest described being seated on a terrace where the view was obstructed by plants, feeling cramped and uncomfortable. It seems that unless you arrive early or are willing to request a better spot, you might find yourself in less-than-ideal seating. Still, the overall atmosphere is cozy, with a traditional decor that makes you feel like you’re in a local-owned spot rather than a tourist trap.

Newly Embracing the Night – New Panorama Sharm Cafe & Restaurant

The New Panorama offers a more lively, entertainment-heavy evening. The experience typically lasts around 5 hours, starting late evening, with a focus on live performances like Tanoura, fire shows, belly dancing, and traditional art dances. It’s designed for those who prefer a vibrant nightlife scene with cultural flair.

Guests can enjoy shisha, soft drinks, and bottled water, making it a relaxed yet festive environment. The inclusion of live entertainment makes this a great choice for couples or groups seeking a mix of relaxation and fun. It’s important to note, however, that some reviews have pointed out issues with organization — notably, long wait times, confusion about ticketing, and the perception that some shows might be limited in access.

More Great Tours Nearby

The View and Atmosphere

Both cafes boast fantastic sea vistas and mountain scenery, especially at sunset. At Farsha, watching the sky change colors over the Sinai Mountains is a highlight, while New Panorama provides a more dynamic environment with visual performances and lively music.

Stargazing – A Highlight for Night Owls

One of the standout features of the Farsha experience is the opportunity to gaze into the night sky using telescopes or binoculars. Given the relatively low light pollution in the area, this can be a memorable moment, especially if you’re a star enthusiast or just want a peaceful way to end your day.

Practical Details and Insights

Price and Value

At around $15 per person, these experiences are quite affordable considering they include transportation, some level of entertainment, and scenic views. The price is especially attractive if you’re looking for an evening activity that doesn’t require a hefty entrance fee or multiple add-ons.

However, some reviews suggest that the value may be compromised by logistical issues. For instance, one guest remarked that their transportation service was essentially just a taxi, with no guide or skip-the-line privileges as advertised. Another mentioned waiting in line for hours despite the “skip the line” promise. These issues highlight the importance of managing expectations and understanding what is truly included.

The Downsides – What to Keep in Mind

• Organization and Communication: Some guests have experienced delays, poor communication, or unorganized staff, especially at the cafe entrances or during transfers.
• Limited Guidance: There’s no dedicated tour guide included, which might be surprising given some descriptions. If you expect a guided experience, you may need to organize that separately.
• Restrictions at Farsha: The cafe is only open for non-family groups after 4:00 PM, which could affect families traveling with children. If visiting with kids or larger groups, plan accordingly.

Reviews and Authentic Feedback

A mix of reviews paints a clear picture: the scenery and cultural performances are attractive but sometimes marred by logistical hiccups. One guest remarked, “The place is beautiful, but the money we paid was just for the taxi, the entrance tickets are free,” hinting that some perceived value might be less than expected for the cost.

Another shared experience mentioned being forced to sit in cramped, less scenic spots, which can dampen the overall vibe. On the other hand, the driver’s friendliness and comfort were often praised, making the journey itself pleasant.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This experience is best suited for travelers who:

• Want a relaxing evening with scenic views and the opportunity to watch the sunset.
• Are interested in cultural performances like belly dancing or Tanoura shows.
• Enjoy stargazing and want to use telescopes or binoculars to explore the night sky.
• Appreciate easy logistics with hotel pick-up and drop-off, reducing travel stress.
• Are on a budget but still seek a memorable, lively night out without high costs.

It’s less ideal for travelers seeking luxury, guided tours, or those concerned with perfect organization. Also, families with children should plan their visit before 4:00 PM for Farsha.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a combination of beautiful scenery, cultural entertainment, and hassle-free transportation for a reasonable price. While organization and communication issues have been noted by some guests, the core attractions—sunset views, stargazing, and live performances—remain compelling.

If you’re after an authentic experience that balances relaxation and entertainment, and you don’t mind some minor logistical quirks, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s an accessible way to add a touch of Egyptian culture and natural beauty to your evening in Sharm El-Sheikh.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for families with children?
Farsha Cafe is only open for non-family groups after 4:00 PM, so visiting with kids earlier in the day is recommended. For family-friendly options, plan accordingly.

What is included in the price?
The price generally covers hotel pickup and drop-off, private transfer in an air-conditioned vehicle, and depending on the option selected, shisha, soft drinks, bottled water, and live performances.

Are guides provided during the experience?
No, there’s no dedicated guide included. You’ll be accompanied by a driver, but the experience relies on the venue staff and performers.

Can I cancel this experience?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if plans change.

Are entrance tickets included?
Some guests have found that entrance tickets are free or included in the package, but organizational issues may lead to confusion or long wait times.

What is the best time to go?
Sunset is the highlight, so arriving around 6:00 PM for Farsha or later for New Panorama will give you the best views and performances.

How long does the experience last?
Typically around 5 hours, with timings starting from early evening to late night depending on the package.

Is there a dress code?
While not strictly enforced, modest attire is respectful, especially if attending cultural performances. The venue is more relaxed for adults in casual wear.

Can I bring my own telescope or binoculars?
The experience mentions the use of telescopes or binoculars for stargazing, but it’s best to check if you can bring your own or if you’ll be provided with equipment.

This experience offers a charming way to taste local culture, enjoy stunning views, and unwind after a day of sightseeing in Sharm El-Sheikh. Just keep a keen eye on organization and arrive prepared for a lively, authentic night out.

You can check availability for your dates here: