tourist attractions in luxor egypt

17 Top-Rated Things to Do in Luxor

Written by Jess Lee Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Luxor stands head and shoulders above Egypt's other towns for the sheer wealth of historic tourist attractions and things to do for travelers.

The glut of Ancient Egypt's giant-sized temples and tombs lined with vibrant wall paintings you can visit here makes the town an open-air museum.

This was the site of ancient Thebes , the great city of the Middle Kingdom and New Kingdom pharaohs, who covered the banks of the Nile with their mammoth building works and began the vast tomb structures snugly hidden amid the rocky valley of the West Bank.

The scope of their ambition is best appreciated today in the magnificent Karnak Temple complex . But there are so many monuments here that you could easily spend a week simply soaking up Ancient Egypt's ambition and grandeur. This is especially true if you add on a number of interesting day trips from Luxor.

This is the best place to visit in Egypt to simply lose yourself in the wonders of the ancient world.

If you need a break from ancient monuments, though, there are plenty of alternative sightseeing opportunities, with hot-air ballooning and felucca rides to temper temple overload.

plan your trip with our list of the things to do in Luxor.

See also: Where to Stay in Luxor

1. Temple of Karnak

2. valley of the kings, 3. hot air balloon ride over luxor at sunrise, 4. luxor temple, 5. temple of deir al-bahri (queen hatshepsut's temple), 6. felucca ride to banana island, 7. medinet habu, 8. avenue of the sphinxes, 9. tombs of the nobles, 10. colossi of memnon, 11. ramesseum, 12. valley of the queens, 13. luxor museum, 14. deir el-medina, 15. mortuary temple of seti i, 16. tomb of tutankhamun replica & carter's house, 17. mummification museum, where to stay in luxor for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to luxor, day trips from luxor, temples of abydos, temple of hathor at dendera, kom ombo temple, temple of horus at edfu, temple of khnum, esna.

Of Luxor's many monuments, the Temple Complex of Karnak has to be its most astonishing and beautiful feat.

Within its precincts are the Great Temple of Amun , the Temple of Khons, and the Festival Temple of Tuthmosis III, as well as surrounding minor temples and sanctuaries.

The complex is not built to a single unified plan. Instead, it represents the building activity of many successive rulers, who vied with one another in adding to and adorning this great national sanctuary, which became the most important of Egypt's temples during the New Kingdom.

All the monuments here are built on a gigantic scale, reducing visitors to ant-like proportions as they gaze up at mighty columns and colossal statuary .

Even if you're short on time, don't scrimp on your visit here. You need at least three hours to try and make sense of and explore the entire Temples of Karnak complex .

You can easily walk to Karnak from downtown, although due to the heat, most people take a taxi.

If you're short on time, plenty of tours are offered that whip you around the highlights of Karnak. A private tour of Luxor East Bank, Karnak, and the Luxor temples is a good option. This half-day tour visits these ancient sites with an Egyptologist.

Address: Maabad al-Karnak Street, East Bank, Luxor

Hidden between the rocky escarpments of Luxor's West Bank, the Valley of the Kings was the final resting place for the kings of the 18th, 19th, and 20th dynasties.

Covered in intricately detailed, vibrant wall paintings, the tombs are normally every visitor's number one stop on a West Bank visit and among the very top tourist attractions in Egypt.

Since it was believed that the dead, accompanied by the sun god (or perhaps having become one with the sun god) sailed through the underworld at night in a boat, the walls of the tombs were adorned with texts and scenes depicting this voyage and giving the dead instruction on its course.

Within the valley are 63 tombs, which are a roll-call of famous names of Egyptian history, including the famous boy-king Tutankhamun.

The tombs are open on a rotation system to preserve the paintings as much as possible from the damage caused by humidity. Head here first thing in the morning (the site opens at 6am) to see them completely without the crowds.

Early birds willing to roll out of bed while it's still dark are rewarded with a bird's-eye view of the West Bank on a dawn hot air balloon ride. In fact, it's one of the best places for a hot air balloon ride in the world .

Balloon rides here take off just after sunrise and float over the West Bank, with its green farming fields tucked between the barren escarpments, viewing the area's temples and tomb sites from high above.

Flight time is usually around 45 minutes, though expect the hot-air balloon ride in Luxor to take around three hours from pickup at your hotel to being dropped back there.

There are a variety of operators in town. Balloon group tours generally use larger baskets taking around 24 passengers plus pilot.

Presiding over the modern downtown district, Luxor Temple is an ode to the changing face of Egypt through the centuries.

Built first by Amenophis III (on the site of an earlier sandstone temple), it was known as "the southern harem of Amun" and was dedicated to Amun, his consort Mut, and their son the moon god Khons.

Like all Egyptian temples, it comprises the chapels of the deities, with their vestibules and subsidiary chambers; a large Hypostyle Hall; and an open Peristyle Court, which was approached from the north by a great colonnade.

The temple was added to and changed by a parade of pharaohs, including Amenophis IV (who obliterated all references to the god Amun within the temple and added the Sanctuary of the god Aten), Tutankhamun (who had the walls of the colonnade embellished with reliefs and in turn destroyed the Temple of the Aten), Seti I (who restored the reliefs of Amun), and Ramses II (who extended the temple significantly, adding a new colonnaded court at the north end).

During the Christian era, the temple underwent a transformation into a church, while in the Islamic period, the Mosque of Abu el-Haggag , dedicated to a revered holy man, was built inside the complex grounds.

Address: Luxor Corniche, East Bank

The Temple of Deir el-Bahri is magnificently situated on the West Bank, at the foot of the sheer cliffs fringing the desert hills, the light-colored, almost white, sandstone of the temple standing out prominently against the golden yellow to light brown rocks behind.

The temple complex is laid out on three terraces rising from the plain, linked by ramps, which divide it into a northern and a southern half. Along the west side of each terrace is a raised colonnade.

The terraces were hewn out of the eastern slopes of the hills, with retaining walls of the finest sandstone along the sides and to the rear. The temple itself was also partly hewn from the rock.

Inside, the complex is richly adorned with statues, reliefs, and inscriptions. Note how Queen Hatshepsut had herself represented with the attributes of a male pharaoh (beard and short apron) to demonstrate that she possessed all the authority of a king.

If you've had your fill of temples and tombs for the day, there is no better way to relax in Luxor than to take a felucca ride to Banana Island.

Sailing the five kilometers upriver from Luxor to this tiny palm-shaded island is the perfect chilled-out contrast to a dusty day exploring the pharaonic treasures of the West and East Bank.

You'll have no problems chartering a felucca. Boat captains tout for customers all along the Nile-side Corniche Road in downtown Luxor. Boat rides are normally charged by the hour. Bank on a return Banana Island felucca taking around three hours.

Felucca rides are all about simply sitting back to watch the Nile-side views as the boat captain raises the sail and you slide up the river.

If you sail back just at sunset, you'll get to see the river at its most majestic.

With the famous Valley of the Kings and Temple of Deir al-Bahri the main attractions, Medinet Habu often gets overlooked on a West Bank trip, but this is one of Egypt's most beautifully decorated temples and should be on everyone's list of places to visit on the West Bank.

The complex consists of a small, older temple built during the 18th dynasty and enlarged in the Late Period, and the great Temple of Ramses III , associated with a royal palace, which was surrounded by a battlemented enclosure wall four meters high.

The main temple area was built exactly on the model of the Ramesseum and, like the Ramesseum, was dedicated to Amun. The reliefs here are some of the best you'll see on the West Bank.

• Temple of Ramesses III
• South Tower
• 18th Dynasty Temple
• Sacred Lake
• Mortuary Temple of Amenirdis
• 18th Dynasty Temple First Court
• 18th Dynasty Temple Second Court
• First Court
• Great Hypostyle Hall
• Royal Palace
• Second Court
• Second Pylon

This ancient processional walkway between Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple was opened to the public in 2021 after many years of reconstruction and archaeological work.

Stretching for 1.7 kilometers between the two temples, this is the route the procession of the annual Opet Festival would have taken when the priests of Karnak Temple carried the shrines of Amun, Mut, and their son Khonsu to Luxor Temple.

The walkway is lined with statues of sphinxes and rams . Originally, the entire avenue held 1,057 of these statues. About a third of this number have been recovered by archaeological work here and have been placed on their plinths.

If you want to walk between the two temples, this is now the most popular (and direct) option. The alternative is to walk along the Nile-side Corniche Road.

If you haven't had your fill of tombs in the Valley of the Kings, then make a beeline for the Tombs of the Nobles, which may be less famous, but actually include much better preserved examples of tomb paintings.

This West Bank site contains around 400 tombs of various dignitaries , which date roughly from the 6th dynasty right up to the Ptolemaic era, with a few open for public viewing.

The tomb paintings here aren't so concerned with guiding the dead into the afterlife; instead, they showcase scenes from Egyptian daily life.

In particular, the Tomb of Sennofer, Tomb of Rekhmire, Tomb of Khonsu, Tomb of Benia, Tomb of Menna, and Tomb of Nakht are home to some of Egypt's most vivid and lively tomb paintings.

If you're short of time, opt to see the Tomb of Sennofer and Tomb of Rekhmire. Both have incredibly detailed paintings depicting scenes from the men's daily lives, work, and family life. Sennofer was an overseer during the reign of Amenhotep II, while Rekhmire was the pharaoh's vizier.

The Colossi of Memnon are the first monuments most travelers see on the West Bank.

These giant statues sit beside the main road that runs from the Luxor suburb of Al-Gezira on the west shore of the Nile bank, just before the main West Bank ticket office.

Carved out of hard yellowish-brown sandstone quarried in the hills above Edfu, they represent Amenophis III seated on a cube-shaped throne, and once stood guard at the entrance to the king's temple, of which only scanty traces are left.

In Roman Imperial times, they were taken for statues of Memnon, son of Eos and Tithonus, who was killed by Achilles during the Trojan War.

The South Colossus is better preserved than the one to the north. It stands 19.59-meters high and the base is partly buried under the sand. With the crown that it originally wore but has long since vanished, the total height must have been some 21 meters.

The North Colossus is the famous "musical statue," which brought flocks of visitors here during the Roman Imperial period.

Visitors observed that the statue emitted a musical note at sunrise and this gave rise to the myth that Memnon was greeting his mother, Eos, with this soft, plaintive note. The sound ceased to be heard after Emperor Septimus Severus had the upper part of the statue restored.

If you walk behind the statues, you can see the vast site (currently being excavated by archaeologists) where Amenophis III's temple once sat.

The great mortuary temple built by Ramses II and dedicated to Amun, lies on the edge of the cultivated land, some one-and-a-half kilometers south of Deir el-Bahri on the West Bank.

Although only about half of the original structure survives, it is still a highly impressive monument.

During the Roman Imperial period, it was known as the Tomb of Ozymandias, mentioned by the historian Diodorus (1st century BC) and was later immortalized by the English poet Shelley in his poem Ozymandias .

The North Tower and South Tower are inscribed with reliefs of Ramses II's battle with the Hittites, similar to the reliefs of Abu Simbel .

On the South Tower, the whole of the left hand half of the wall is taken up by the Battle of Qadesh. Scenes here portray Ramses in his chariot dashing against the Hittites, who are killed by his arrows or flee in wild confusion and fall into the River Orontes, while to the right, you can make out the Hittite Prince and the enemy fleeing into their fortress.

Inside the First Court are the remains of a colossal figure of the king, which is estimated to have originally had a total height of 17.5 meters and to have weighed more than 1,000 tons.

The tombs in the Valley of the Queens, on the West Bank, mostly belong to the 19th and 20th dynasties.

A total of almost 80 tombs are now known, most of them excavated by an Italian expedition led by E. Schiaparelli between 1903 and 1905.

Many of the tombs are unfinished and without decoration, resembling mere caves in the rocks. There are few incised inscriptions or reliefs, with much of the decoration consisting of paintings on stucco.

Only four tombs are open for public viewing, but one of the group is the famed Tomb of Queen Nefertari , only reopened in 2016, making a trip here well worth it.

The Tomb of the Queen Nefertari, Wife to Ramses II, is regarded as the finest of the West Bank's glut of tombs . The walls and ceilings of the chambers here are covered with dazzling, highly detailed and richly colored scenes, which celebrate Nefertari's legendary beauty.

Of the three other tombs that can be seen here, the Tomb of Prince Amen-her-khopshef is the best, as the wall paintings of its chambers have well-preserved colors. A son of Ramses III, Amen-her-khopshef died while still a teenager.

If you have time, or simply just like tombs, the Tomb of Khaemwaset (another son of Ramses III) and the Tomb of Queen Titi both contain some interesting preserved scenes, though those in the Titi tomb are more faded than Khaemwaset. There is no consensus in the archaeology world over who Titi's husband was.

One of Egypt's best museums, Luxor Museum holds a beautifully exhibited collection from the local area, which tells the story of ancient Thebes, from the Old Kingdom right up to the Islamic Period.

The museum's prize possessions are the two Royal Mummies of Ahmose I and what is believed to be Ramses I in two rooms on the ground floor, which are worth a visit here alone.

The upper floor has a dazzling display of amulets, silver bowls, grave and tomb furnishings, and votive tablets running across the middle of the floor space.

While here, check out the reliefs on the re-erected Wall of Akhenaten. The 283 sandstone blocks are covered with painted reliefs and originally belonged to Akhenaten's Temple of the Sun at Karnak.

The museum is about half way between Luxor Temple and Karnak Temple.

Deir el-Medina, on Luxor's West Bank, is home to a small temple, the remnants of a workers' village (where the artisans of the royal tombs lived) and the tombs of the workers themselves.

It's well worth a visit for the wall paintings adorning the tombs, which differ in style from those that decorate the pharaoh tombs and are a vibrant depiction of daily Egyptian life.

Don't miss the Tomb of Sennedjem , who was a 19th-dynasty artist. It has a vaulted tomb chamber and reliefs and paintings on religious themes, including a fine representation of a funeral banquet. The contents of the tomb–discovered in 1886–are now on display in Cairo's Egyptian Museum .

After viewing the tombs, walk through the ruins of the workmen's village up to Deir el-Medina's temple , which sits on the escarpment behind. The small temple is a much younger addition to this site, dating from the Ptolemaic era and dedicated to the god Hathor.

Location: West Bank

The Mortuary Temple of Seti I, on Luxor's West Bank, is dedicated to Amun and to the cult of the king's father Ramses I.

Left unfinished by Seti I, it was adorned by Ramses II with reliefs and inscriptions, which vie in quality with the contemporary work at Abydos .

The temple was originally 158 meters long, but all that now remains is the sanctuary, with its various halls and chambers and some scanty fragments of the courts and pylons.

For those travelers interested in ancient Egyptian decorative work, the temple's Hypostyle Hall contains some excellent examples of reliefs.

On the roof slabs over the central aisle are the winged solar disc; flying vultures; and the names of Seti I, enclosed by snakes and flanked by two rows of hieroglyphics.

The low reliefs on the walls depict Seti I and Ramses II making offerings to various gods, including, on the right, Hathor of Dendera who is suckling Seti.

This modest mud-brick house is where Carter set up home during the long search for Tutankhamun's tomb. In the garden here, you can also visit an exact replica of the Tomb of Tutankhamun from the Valley of the Kings.

The tomb replica's burial chamber is an exact copy of the original down to the finest detail, including dust. It was created by the Factum Foundation for Digital Conservation in collaboration with Egypt's Ministry of Antiquities as an experiment in contemporary preservation.

Millions of tourists come to Egypt each year specifically to see this country's pharaonic tombs and temples, but at the same time, that footfall into the sensitive atmosphere of the tombs is heavily degrading them.

Come here to be wowed at just how perfect the replica is, and consider how replicas like this could be used to help conserve original sites in the future. You can't spot the difference.

Carter's House itself has been restored, with the rooms laid out as they would have been while he lived here, and the walls display interesting black-and-white photographs documenting his work.

The site is on the main West Bank road, just past the turnoff that leads to the Mortuary Temple of Seti I .

This small but fascinating museum, located in downtown Luxor, explains the processes behind the ancient Egyptian practice of mummification in a series of well set out and informative displays.

The exhibits include actual mummies (both human and animal) and the tools (including the spatulas used to scrape the dead person's brains out) used in the mummification process.

It's probably not the best museum for anyone particularly squeamish, but the clear information panels and well-thought-out exhibits are a must for anyone looking to find out more about the burial practices of the pharaohs.

In particular, check out the mummy of Maserharti, a high priest of Amun in the 21st dynasty, which is extremely well-preserved.

The East Bank has the vast amount of accommodation, though staying on the West Bank is increasingly popular, particularly if you want to hit the tombs and temples early.

Luxury Hotels:

• The Sofitel Winter Palace is Luxor's most famous hotel and its oldest. It has lush gardens and pools and one of the top restaurants in town, as well as bags of historic ambience.
• The Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa has a wonderful spa, multiple restaurants, and an infinity pool overlooking the Nile.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• The Jolie Ville Hotel & Spa–Kings Island is based on a private island on the Nile. There are plenty of resort features, with gorgeous grounds, three outdoor pools, tennis courts, and a fitness center.
• Popular with tour groups, the Steigenberger Nile Palace Luxor Hotel has good-value rates, Nile River views, beautiful pools, and nightly entertainment.

Budget Hotels:

• The Nefertiti Hotel is one of the most popular budget choices on the East Bank thanks to its friendly staff, roof terrace, great restaurant, and squeaky-clean rooms right in the center of town.
• On the West Bank, El Masala Hotel is near the ferry terminal in Al-Gezira, close to town as well as the West Bank sites. There's a pool and restaurant, and most rooms come with balconies that overlook the Nile.

Tombs and Temples Half-Day Tour:

• If you don't have time up your sleeve, try the Luxor West Bank, Valley of the Kings, and Hatshepsut Temple private tour . This four-hour tour explores three tombs in the Valley of the Kings and then journeys on to Deir al-Bahri to see this famed temple of Queen Hatshepsut.

Tombs and Temples Full-Day Tour:

• To knock all the top tourist attractions off in one day, the Full-Day Tour to the East and West Banks of Luxor takes in the five most famous sites (Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Valley of the Kings, Deir al-Bahri, and the Colossi of Memnon) with guided tours of all included.

Best Time to Plan Your Luxor Activities

• Luxor can get so hot during the day, so it's a good idea to plan some activities for the early hours of morning. Early risers are definitely rewarded here, as many of the sights such as the Valley of the Kings open at 6am.
• From about 9:30am, the Nile Cruise tours pack into the main sights–the Valley of the Kings, Karnak, and Deir al-Bahri in particular. This is another reason to head out early and escape the crowds.

The grand necropolis complex of Abydos is one of the oldest necropolises in Egypt and is associated with the first Egyptian capital of Thinis.

It was here that kings and high court dignitaries were buried during the 1st and 2nd dynasties, and the rituals of kingly burials were first celebrated to symbolize the transitory and recurrent character of all earthly things.

The site is centered around the beautiful T emple of Seti I , which is feted as one of Egypt's most complete temples still standing today.

Most visitors are here simply to visit the temple, but if you're looking for other things to do, there are various cemeteries and small ruins to also explore in the surrounding area.

Abydos is 162 kilometers north of Luxor, so most people visit as a day-trip from Luxor.

• Read More: Exploring The Temples of Abydos: A Visitor's Guide

Although Dendera Temple is much smaller than earlier temples such as Karnak, it's a hugely impressive monument.

This is thanks both to its excellent state of preservation and the profusion of reliefs and inscriptions on the wall, which provide an excellent example of the decorative art of the pharaonic late period.

Dendera itself was once capital of Upper Egypt, and the scant remnants of this once-great town lie on the west bank of the Nile across from the modern town of Qena. The temple, though, dates from the much later Ptolemaic era, with sections of the temple constructed by the Roman emperors Tiberius and Trajan.

Dendera is 76 kilometers north of Luxor. Many people get here by taxi-tour, which is the most convenient option. There are also regular bus services and trains to Qena from Luxor.

The Kom Ombo Temple, twin-dedicated to the deities Sobek and Haroeris, was built to a unified plan, which in effect accommodated two temples in a single building.

The temple was also embellished with reliefs by Philometor, Euergetes II, and Neos Dionysos.

One of the finest Ptolemaic temples in Egypt, its lavish decoration harks back to a time when Kom Ombo's position beside the Nile made it one of Upper Egypt's most important centers of trade and commerce.

Kom Ombo is 168 kilometers south of Luxor. Most people visit along the way when they're heading to Aswan from Luxor.

The temple is one of the highlight stops of all Nile cruise trips. If you're not heading to go sightseeing in Aswan though, a Kom Ombo day trip can easily be arranged in Luxor.

• Read More: Exploring Kom Ombo Temple: A Visitor's Guide

The 2,000-year-old Temple of Horus is almost perfectly preserved, and the history of its construction and a description of the entire structure are set forth in long inscriptions on the outside of the enclosure wall, particularly at the north end of the east and west sides.

Construction began in 237 BCE, in the reign of Ptolemy III Euergetes I, and was completed in 212 under his successor, Philopator.

Its relative youth, compared to the temples in Luxor, means that it is in much better shape than other temples, and it remains one of the best places to visit in Egypt to really imagine the grandeur of ancient Egypt.

Edfu and its temple are 110 kilometers south of Luxor. As with Kom Ombo Temple, every Nile cruise tour chugging between Luxor and Aswan stops here along the journey. If Aswan isn't on your itinerary, though, you can easily organize a day trip to Edfu (or Edfu and Kom Ombo) from Luxor.

• Read More: Exploring Edfu's Magnificent Temple of Horus

In the center of Esna, freed from the rubble of later centuries and now nine meters below the present street level, is the Temple of Khnum, the ram-headed local god, and his associate goddesses Neith and Satet.

The outer walls bear reliefs and inscriptions by Roman Emperors. On the south side, Domitian is depicted smiting his enemies in the presence of Khnum and Menheyet, and on the north side, Khnum, with the goddess Nebtu standing behind him, presents Trajan, also shown smiting his enemies, with the sickle sword.

The seven-aisled vestibule was the only part of the temple that was completed and dates almost entirely from the Roman Imperial period.

As Esna is only 56 kilometers south of Luxor, it is easily visited as a half-day trip from Luxor.

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Down the Nile and Beyond: If you want to explore Egypt's Nile Valley further, check out our articles on Aswan , the Philae Temple Complex, and Abu Simbel . Many visitors combine a trip to the Nile Valley with a beach break on the Red Sea. See our articles on Hurghada and the Red Sea Region for ideas on things to see and do.

More on Egypt

Luxor Egypt Attractions

Luxor Egypt Attractions are well and truly in a league of their own: explore the Valley of Kings, home to more than 60 royal tombs, including that of Tutankhamen; venture through Valley of Queens; marvel at the splendor of Queen Hatshepsut’s mortuary temple, gaze upon Luxor Temple, and discover Karnak, the largest temple complex ever constructed. Luxor tourist attractions can best be described as an overload of ancient Egyptian sites.

→  Looking for even more Egyptian tourist attractions? Click here…

Traveling to Luxor: Experience the Mystique and History of Luxor

Luxor Hot Air Balloon Rides: An Aerial Tour of Ancient Egypt

Top 5 Temples in Luxor

Valley of the Kings – Luxor’s Ancient Valley where Kings and Nobles were Buried

Tomb of King Tut – Egypt’s Most Loved Ancient Site By Far

Karnak Temple – Largest Religious Site Of The Ancient World

Luxor Temple – An Ancient Temple Of Pharoah Amenophis III

Edfu Temple – One Of Egypt’s Best Preserved Ancient Temples

Hatshepsut Temple: A Window into the Reign of One of Egypt’s Most Powerful Female Rulers

Dendera Temple Complex – Home To Egypt’s Best Preserved Temple

Theban Necropolis – One of the Best Ancient Sites in All of Egypt

Thebes Egypt – The Majestic Capital Of Ancient Egypt

Abu Haggag Mosque – The Mosque in the Heart of Luxor Temple

The Avenue of Sphinxes – An Amazing Project Of Queen Hatshepsut

Temple of Khnum – A Must-See Attraction In The Quiet Town Of Esna

The Ramesseum Temple in Luxor – Mortuary Temple of Ramses II

Medinet Habu – An Ancient Mortuary Temple Of Ramesses III

Luxor Museum – A Select Display Of Fine Egyptian Antiquities

Karnak Temple Sound and Light Show – Worth Considering A Visit

Howard Carter House – The Man Who Found The Tomb Of Tutankhamen

Deir El Medina – An Ancient Egyptian Village Revealed

Colossi Of Memnon – The Guardians Of An Ancient Mortuary Temple

Abydos – One Of The Oldest Sacred Ancient Cities Discovered

Luxor West Bank – Home To Some Of Egypt’s Most Famous Sites

Luxor East Bank – A Modern City And Home To Countless Attractions

Valley of the Nobles – 500 Tombs of Theban Nobles and High Officials

Valley of the Queens – A Necropolis Of The Pharaohs Wives

Luxor Museum of Mummification – A Real Must-See Attraction

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FAQ: Visiting Luxor, Egypt

Is Luxor Egypt safe for tourists?

Yes, Luxor is safe for tourists, with high security at all popular Luxor Egypt attractions. However, while tourists are rarely victims of serious crime, they are sometimes targeted by pickpockets.

What to do in Luxor Egypt?

Devote at least 2 or 3 days to sightseeing, preferably with a professional guide. If you are feeling adventurous, consider a sunrise or sunset hot air balloon ride over the area’s ancient monuments.

Must see in Luxor Egypt?

Luxor Egypt attractions which you really cannot afford to miss include Valley of Kings and King Tut’s tomb; Hatshepsut Temple; Luxor Temple; Karnak Temple, and the towering Colossi of Memnon.

Where is Luxor located in Egypt?

Luxor is located near the ancient city of Thebes in the south of Upper Egypt. Thebes was the capital city of Ancient Egypt during the New Kingdom years. Luxor is the world’s best open-air museum.

How far is Aswan from Luxor Egypt?

Aswan is approximately 181 kilometers from Luxor if you travel by air. The shortest distance by road is roughly 215 kilometers. You can travel from Aswan to Luxor by air, road or rail.

How far is Cairo from Luxor Egypt?

The flight distance from Cairo to Luxor is approximately 510 kilometers, while the shortest distance by road is about 660 kilometers. Average flight time is 1hour and 10 minutes.

How many days in Luxor Egypt?

Plan on spending at least two nights in Luxor. This will give you 3 days to visit all the top Luxor Egypt attractions. The best way to explore Luxor is by way of a private guided tour .

How old is Luxor Egypt?

Luxor was first inhabited 250,000 years ago. It is one of the longest inhabited areas in the world and served as a provincial administration center when the Giza Pyramids were being built.

Are there pyramids in Luxor Egypt?

There are a multitude of breathtaking Luxor Egypt attractions, but there are no pyramids. The three pyramids which are often shown in books and movies are located on the outskirts of Cairo.

Click here for a brief introduction to the top Luxor, Egypt Attractions

Not to Be Missed: The Top Luxor Attractions & Points of Interest

If you are just starting to make plans to visit Egypt it is likely that you have already realized that Luxor is a place that needs more than just a day or so to really experience. If you have not come to this conclusion just yet, let’s look at just a sampling of the best Luxor, Egypt Attractions and you’ll realize why you’ll want to make sure you have a lot of time here.

The Kings And Queens Of Luxor’s Attractions

Those not familiar with the different Luxor tourist attractions should know that this is where you find the ancient capital of Egypt – known as Thebes. It is where the tomb of the ultra-famous King Tutankhamen is found, and where the Valley of the Kings is located, too. There is also the Valley of the Queens nearby as well as the amazing Karnak Temple complex, Luxor Temple, the absolutely must see Avenue of Sphinxes, and the great wonder that is the temple of Queen Hatshepsut.

Now, that is just a very brief and basic list, and we did not mention the specific sites within these top Luxor, Egypt attractions. There are also museums, temples, an ancient worker’s village, and so much more.

Let’s just select a few of the Luxor attractions listed above to be sure you understand what an amazing and remarkable place this is, and to begin calculating how much time to give yourself during a visit.

Things To See In Luxor? Go East and West

To begin planning most effectively, you should know that the Luxor, Egypt attractions are divided by the river. The Nile splits the city in half, and so you will need to dedicate time to Luxor West and Luxor East activities. It is helpful to note that the western side of the city is also where the Valley of the Kings is located along with the bulk of the most famous spots.

However, on the eastern side is where the Temple of Karnak is found along with some of the region’s best museums, including the Luxor Museum and the Museum of Mummification. The eastern side is also where the Temple of Luxor is found, too. The Avenue of the Sphinxes is located here, and some of the most modern luxury hotels are also on this side of the Nile. It is also where you will find the delightful and beguiling junction where Sharia al-Markaz and the Sharia al-Lokanda meet and where visitors spend many hours experiencing one of the best bazaars and markets in the area.

Now that you are bit better oriented, you can more reasonably plan your stay, and as you have probably realized, it is best to know where to go and what to see when there are so many options. One of the best ways to get the very most out of even a short time in Luxor is to book with experienced tour providers. At www.egypttoursplus.com you can work with knowledgeable experts of the Luxor area to create the ideal itinerary for your needs and travel wishes visiting all the best Luxor Egypt Attractions.

Egypt Travel Information

Full Safety Guide: Is It Safe to Travel to Egypt?

What are the Must Visit Places in Egypt?

Egypt Travel Tips: This You Need to Know

How to Plan a Trip to Egypt – Start Here!

Best Time to Visit Egypt and When to Book!

What to Pack for Egypt (Simple Packing List)

Last Updated on March 27, 2024

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18 Amazing Things to Do in Luxor (Your Ultimate Luxor Bucket List)

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Welcome to Luxor , an enchanting city that lies along the banks of the majestic Nile River in Egypt, and a destination that should be at the forefront of your travel aspirations!

If you. are seeking a place that seamlessly blends ancient history with modern charm, Luxor deserves a prime spot on your Luxor bucket list . This remarkable city is a treasure trove of archaeological wonders, cultural experiences, and awe-inspiring landscapes, making it a dream come true for every avid traveler’s Luxor bucket list.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into a myriad of captivating things to do in Luxor, ensuring that your visit becomes an unforgettable journey through time and culture.

Let’s embark on this exploration of the must-see attractions that define the Luxor experience and uncover the secrets that make it a top contender for any discerning traveler’s Luxor bucket list.

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• 1. 18 Best Things to Do in Luxor (Your Luxor Bucket List)
• 1.1. Explore the Famous Valley of the Kings
• 1.2. Visit the Temple of Hatshepsut
• 1.3. Explore the Majestic Ramesseum
• 1.4. Discover the Medinet Habu Complex
• 1.5. Tour the Valley of the Queens
• 1.6. Stop By Colossi of Memnon
• 1.7. Explore the Iconic Luxor Temple
• 1.8. Witness the Magic of Luxor Temple in the Evening
• 1.9. Romantic Ride in Horse-Drawn Carriage Along the Corniche
• 1.10. Explore the Mummification Museum
• 1.11. Visit the Luxor Museum
• 1.12. Go on a Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride
• 1.13. Explore the Karnak Temple
• 1.14. Watch the Sound and Light Show at the Karnak Temple
• 1.15. Stay at Historic Sofitel Winter Palace
• 1.16. Eat Traditional Egyptian Cuisine at Sofra
• 1.17. Go on Felucca Ride
• 1.18. Kick Back in Style at Hilton Luxor Resort and Spa
• 2. Intrepid Scout's Tips for Best Things to Do in Luxor

18 Best Things to Do in Luxor (Your Luxor Bucket List)

Explore the famous valley of the kings.

When compiling your list of things to do in Luxor, make sure to prioritize a visit to the world-renowned Valley of the Kings .

Situated on the western bank of the Nile River, this historical site served as the burial ground for numerous pharaohs, noble individuals, and royals for nearly 500 years, from the 16th to the 11th century BC, known as the New Kingdom of Ancient Egypt.

The valley is home to an impressive collection of intricately designed tombs , each revealing the ancient Egyptians’ intricate beliefs and practices surrounding the afterlife.

Remarkably well-preserved , these tombs boast vivid wall paintings, hieroglyphics, and architectural marvels that continue to captivate archaeologists and tourists alike.

Notable tombs include the tomb of Ramses II, known for its grandeur, and the tomb of Tutankhamun, which yielded a treasure trove of artifacts.

One of the most captivating tombs in the Valley of the Kings is Tomb KV9 which stands as a testament to the legacy of Ramses V and Ramses VI .

Things to Do in Luxor / Tomb KV9 – Tomb of Ramses V and Ramses VI in the Valley of the Kings

Carved into the heart of the Luxor hills, this tomb complex holds significant historical and artistic value.

Ramses V, the son of Ramses IV, and Ramses VI, his nephew, shared this burial site , showcasing a continuation of the dynasty’s architectural and artistic achievements.

The tomb’s intricate layout includes a long corridor leading to a vestibule and then to a series of chambers. The decoration within the tomb is a striking display of vibrant colors and detailed reliefs, portraying scenes from various religious texts and depicting the pharaohs’ journey into the afterlife.

Notably, the burial chamber features a beautifully painted astronomical ceiling, showcasing the sky goddess Nut swallowing the sun each evening and giving birth to it at dawn—a symbolic representation of the cycle of life, death, and rebirth.

As you venture into the Valley of the Kings, you will step into a timeless world of history, art, and reverence for the past, an experience that solidifies its place as one of the top things to do in Luxor .

Learn More About the Valley of the Kings: 

7 Best Tombs to Visit in the Valley of the Kings

12 Tips for the First Visit to the Valley of the Kings

Visit the Temple of Hatshepsut

Among the remarkable things to do in Luxor, a visit to the Temple of Hatshepsut should be high on your list!

This stunning temple complex, known as the Djeser-Djeseru or “Holy of Holies,” is a testament to the architectural prowess of ancient Egypt. Built during the 15th century BCE, the temple is dedicated to the pharaoh Hatshepsut , one of the few women to rule as a pharaoh in ancient Egypt.

Carved into the towering cliffs of Deir el-Bahari, the temple’s design is both grand and harmonious, with its three terraced levels blending seamlessly with the natural landscape.

The temple’s intricate reliefs depict the life and achievements of Hatshepsut, showcasing her accomplishments and divine birth narrative. The central courtyard is graced with towering columns and statues, providing a captivating glimpse into the opulence of the New Kingdom period.

Notably, the Temple of Hatshepsut offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valley and the majestic Nile River, making it a visual marvel in addition to its historical significance. As you explore its corridors and chambers, you will be transported back in time to an era of splendor and innovation.

Things to Do in Luxor / The Temple of Hatshepsut

Things to Do in Luxor / The Temple of Hatshepsut 

Visiting the Temple of Hatshepsut allows you to immerse yourself in the stories of Egypt’s ancient rulers while admiring the artistry and engineering feats of the past. The temple’s unique blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty makes it an essential stop for any traveler seeking to uncover Luxor’s treasures.

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Explore the Majestic Ramesseum

When seeking remarkable things to do in Luxor, exploring the Ramesseum is a must-do for all visitors to Luxor.

The Ramesseum, also known as the Mortuary Temple of Ramses II , is an awe-inspiring temple complex dedicated to one of ancient Egypt’s most prominent pharaohs, Ramses II.

Situated on Luxor’s west bank, the Ramesseum stands as a testament to the architectural marvels of the New Kingdom era. The temple’s expansive courtyard is adorned with towering statues of Ramses II, once meticulously carved and intricately detailed.

Things to Do in Luxor / The Ramesseum 

The interior walls showcase intricate reliefs depicting pivotal moments from Ramses II’s reign, including his military triumphs and religious ceremonies, providing a vivid glimpse into the cultural and spiritual life of ancient Egypt.

One of the architectural highlights is the Hypostyle Hall , a grand space with colossal columns adorned with intricate carvings and hieroglyphics. As you wander through this hall, you will be transported back in time, surrounded by the tangible remnants of a civilization that held its rulers and deities in utmost reverence.

Further adding to the allure of the Ramesseum are the Osirian statues located at the rear of the complex. These statues pay homage to the god Osiris and carry profound symbolism associated with life, death, and rebirth—a central theme in ancient Egyptian beliefs.

Another notable feature is the remnants of the renowned 57-foot-high statue of Ramesses II . This colossal statue, which once proudly graced the entrance of the temple, stood as an imposing representation of the pharaoh’s power and authority.

The statue’s placement in front of the very first pylon of the temple was a deliberate architectural choice, intended to awe and inspire visitors as they entered the complex. The colossal size of the statue was a testament to the stature of Ramses II, both as a ruler and as a divine figure in the eyes of the ancient Egyptians.

Things to Do in Luxor / The Ramesseum

A visit to the Ramesseum offers an exceptional opportunity to delve into the legacy of Ramses II and gain a deeper understanding of the architectural and cultural achievements of ancient Egypt.

The temple’s grandeur and intricate details underscore its significance as a captivating destination that should be a priority on your journey through Luxor.

Discover the Medinet Habu Complex

Adding to the list of captivating things to do in Luxor is the exploration of the Medinet Habu Complex .

This sprawling archaeological site encompasses the Mortuary Temple of Ramses III , a structure that not only served as a memorial to the pharaoh but also stands as a testament to the architectural ingenuity of ancient Egypt.

Situated on the west bank of the Nile, the Medinet Habu complex is rich in historical significance. The temple’s massive pylons, adorned with intricate reliefs and inscriptions, greet visitors with scenes of Ramses III’s military victories and ritual offerings. As you venture further into the complex, you will encounter vast courtyards and halls, each with its own unique storytelling purpose.

Things to Do in Luxor / The Medinet Habu Complex

One of the highlights of the Medinrt Habu Complex used to be the Hall of Columns . A grand space that was supported by rows of colossal pillars. Today, what you will see are just the stumps of the columns.

However, you can still see the walls of this hall adorned with scenes that depict Ramses III’s accomplishments and offerings to various deities.

Perhaps one of the most fascinating features of the Medinet Habu is the depiction of the “Battle of the Delta” on the exterior walls. This detailed portrayal of Ramses III’s victory over invading forces of the Sea Peoples , circa 1175 BC, offers invaluable insights into ancient warfare tactics and attire.

Things to Do in Luxor / The Medinet Habu

Tour the Valley of the Queens

Among the remarkable things to do in Luxor, an excursion to the Valley of the Queens offers a unique perspective on the lives of ancient Egyptian royalty. Often overshadowed by its more famous counterpart, the Valley of the Kings, this site holds its own significance as a burial ground for queens and royal children of the New Kingdom.

Nestled amid Luxor’s rugged landscape, the Valley of the Queens is a testament to the reverence that ancient Egyptians held for their queens.

The tombs within this valley are adorned with colorful reliefs and intricate paintings that depict scenes from daily life, religious rituals, and the queens’ journey to the afterlife.

One of the most well-known tombs in the Valley of the Queens is the tomb of Queen Nefertari , the beloved wife of Ramses II. This tomb, renowned for its exquisite artistry and vivid colors, is often referred to as the “Sistine Chapel of Ancient Egypt” due to its breathtaking frescoes that showcase Nefertari’s close relationship with various deities.

Things to Do in Luxor / Tomb of Nefertari in the Valley of the Queens

The Valley of the Queens also holds the tomb of Queen Titi , among others, which offers insight into the lives and beliefs of these royal women. The tombs’ smaller scale compared to those in the Valley of the Kings reflects the differences in status between queens and kings in ancient Egyptian society.

Exploring the Valley of the Queens allows you to step into the private world of Egypt’s queens and learn about their roles and significance within the royal court. The intimate insights provided by the tombs’ artwork and inscriptions create a connection to the past that’s both educational and deeply moving.

For those intrigued by history, art, and the stories of remarkable women in antiquity, the Valley of the Queens is a must-see destination in Luxor!

Stop By Colossi of Memnon

The Colossi of Memnon are a pair of giant statues made out of quartzite sandstone. Each statue stands about 18 meters high (65 feet) and depicts Pharaoh Amenhotep III.

Although they look as if they are standing randomly in the middle of nowhere, they actually used to guard the entrance of the first pylon of the Mortuary Temple of Amenhotep III .

The Mortuary Temple of Amenhotep III was one of the largest temples built in Egypt. Unfortunately, the location of the temple was too close to the River Nile. Each year, when the Nile flooded it would fill the temple. The repeated flooding caused extensive water damage to the architecture and statuary.

Things to Do in Luxor / The Colossi of Memnon 

INTREPID SCOUT’S TIP:

READ: The Colossi of Memnon Unveiled: Exploring 7 Enigmatic Secrets of Ancient Marvel

Explore the Iconic Luxor Temple

A journey to Luxor would be incomplete without a visit to the iconic Luxor Temple , a living testament to the grandeur and legacy of ancient Egypt.

This monumental structure stands proudly on the east bank of the Nile River, captivating visitors with its architectural brilliance and historical significance.

Dating back over 3,000 years, the Luxor Temple was constructed primarily during the New Kingdom period, serving as a sacred site dedicated to Amon , king of the gods, his consort Mut, and their son Khons.

Things to Do in Luxor / The Luxor Temple

The temple’s grand entrance is marked by a colossal pylon adorned with intricate carvings and inscriptions. Once inside, the Avenue of Sphinxes leads the way to the towering obelisks and stunning colonnades that define the temple’s central courtyard.

The Hypostyle Hall , a captivating architectural wonder, boasts a forest of colossal columns adorned with captivating hieroglyphics and depictions of ancient rituals. As you stroll through these hallways, you can almost hear the whispers of history echoing through the ages.

One of the temple’s most iconic features is the pair of colossal seated statues of Ramses II at the entrance. These statues, known as the Colossi of Ramses, stood as a declaration of the pharaoh’s power and the temple’s significance.

The temple was the site of an annual Opet Festival , during which statues of Amun, Mut, and Khonsu were paraded between the Luxor and Karnak Temples, connecting the spiritual heart of Thebes.

Visiting the Luxor Temple provides a captivating blend of history, architecture, and spirituality. As the sun sets, the temple’s illuminated facade creates a magical ambiance, inviting you to connect with the past on a profound level.

Exploring this iconic site is not just a sightseeing endeavor—it is a journey into the soul of Luxor and an essential experience for anyone seeking to understand Egypt’s rich heritage.

Find out more about the Luxor Temple:

The Luxor Temple – 11 Unmissable Things to See

Witness the Magic of Luxor Temple in the Evening

Visiting the Luxor Temple in the evening is a journey into the past unlike any other.

As the sun sets and the twilight hues bathe the ancient stones in a warm glow, the temple takes on an ethereal ambiance. The towering columns, intricate reliefs, and majestic statues come alive in the soft light, casting a spell of enchantment that transports you to the heart of ancient Egypt.

Walking through the illuminated courtyard and beneath the illuminated colonnades, you will feel a profound connection to history and an appreciation for the architectural genius that shaped this iconic site.

This evening adventure at the Luxor Temple offers a rare and unforgettable opportunity to experience the mystique and grandeur of Luxor’s heritage in a truly magical setting.

Things to Do in Luxor / The Luxor Temple in the Evening

Romantic Ride in Horse-Drawn Carriage Along the Corniche

Embark on a romantic journey along the picturesque Corniche of Luxor with a horse-drawn carriage ride. As the gentle clip-clop of hooves resonates and the timeless landscape unfolds before you, you will be transported to an era of elegance and nostalgia.

The palm-lined promenade, framed by the serene Nile River on one side and the bustling city on the other, sets the scene for an enchanting outing.

Whether it is a leisurely afternoon or a moonlit evening, this charming carriage ride promises to be a delightful way to savor the beauty and allure of Luxor’s riverfront.

Things to Do in Luxor / Luxor at Night

Explore the Mummification Museum

In the heart of Luxor lies a captivating destination that offers a unique insight into the intricate practices of ancient Egypt—the Mummification Museum . This specialized museum is dedicated to unraveling the mysteries of mummification, a process that was central to the belief in the afterlife.

As you step into the museum, you will encounter an array of artifacts, tools, and preserved specimens that shed light on the meticulous techniques employed by ancient embalmers.

From the tools used during the embalming process to the ornate coffins that cradled the departed, each exhibit tells a story of reverence for the deceased and the preparation for their journey to the beyond.

The museum offers a fascinating window into the spiritual beliefs and scientific practices that defined ancient Egyptian culture, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a deeper understanding of Luxor’s rich history.

Luxor Mummification Museum

Visit the Luxor Museum

Immerse yourself in the captivating history of Luxor by visiting the renowned Luxor Museum . This exceptional institution offers a journey through time, showcasing an impressive collection of artifacts that span several millennia of ancient Egyptian civilization.

As you wander through the museum’s galleries, you will encounter meticulously preserved statues, intricate jewelry, and intricately carved reliefs that offer a glimpse into the artistry and spirituality of a bygone era.

One of the museum’s highlights is the meticulously reconstructed cache of artifacts from the tomb of Tutankhamun’s grandfather, Yuya and Tjuyu.

Additionally, the beautifully exhibited collection of Amenhotep III’s colossal statues evokes a sense of awe, capturing the grandeur of ancient royalty.

The Luxor Museum stands as a testament to the city’s rich heritage, and your visit promises an immersive experience that will deepen your appreciation for Luxor’s role as a custodian of Egypt’s majestic past.

Things to Do in Luxor / The Luxor Museum (Image Credit: Matt Howry via Flickr)

Go on a Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride

Hands down, a sunrise hot air balloon ride over Luxor was a bucket list experience for me. Honestly, I do not know if there is anything more spectacular than drifting peacefully through the sky while the sun gradually reveals the panoramic views of the Valley of the Kings and the Temple of Hatshepsut.

Trust me, you will love it watching the glittering river Nile surrounded by lush green fields as you pass by the splendid temples of Karnak and Luxor!

Things to Do in Luxor / Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride 

READ: 12 Useful Tips for Hot Air Balloon Ride in Luxor

Explore the Karnak Temple

Embark on a mesmerizing adventure through time at the Karnak Temple , one of the world’s most impressive and extensive temple complexes. Situated on the east bank of the Nile River in Luxor, this sprawling complex is a testament to the architectural prowess and spiritual devotion of ancient Egypt.

The Karnak Temple is a living tableau of over 2,000 years of history, spanning the reigns of various pharaohs.

Things to Do in Luxor / The Karnak Temple 

The colossal Hypostyle Hall , with its towering columns adorned in intricate hieroglyphics, is an architectural marvel that transports you to an era of grandeur and reverence. It was built by Seti I and completed by Ramses II. The hall covers an area of about 50,000 sq ft. It contains 134 gigantic stone columns with beautiful capitals.

You will be amazed by the sheer size of just the center aisle which consists of six columns with open papyrus capitals on each side. These columns are 21 meters tall with a diameter of over three meters.

Next, the sacred lake , reflecting the temple’s grandeur, adds to the sense of awe that permeates the site.

The Temple of Amun-Re , at the heart of the complex, holds the towering obelisks of Queen Hatshepsut and Thutmose I, standing as silent sentinels to the past.

The Open-Air Museum invites you to admire meticulously restored statues, colossal scarabs, and other treasures from antiquity.

One of the most iconic features is the Avenue of Sphinxes , connecting the Karnak Temple to the Luxor Temple. Imagine the rituals and processions that once graced this avenue, a path that united two significant religious sites.

Exploring the Karnak Temple is a profound journey through history, art, and spirituality. With every step, you will be transported back in time, surrounded by the echoes of ancient rituals and the breathtaking beauty of Egypt’s enduring legacy.

A visit to the Karnak Temple is an opportunity to connect with the past on a deeply personal level and to bear witness to the marvels that have captivated travelers for centuries.

Find out more about the Karnak Temple: 

Karnak Temple – 9 Absolute Must-See Things at the Karnak Temple

Watch the Sound and Light Show at the Karnak Temple

Immerse yourself in the mystique of ancient Egypt by attending the captivating Sound and Light Show at the Karnak Temple .

As the sun sets, the temple’s grandeur is illuminated by a mesmerizing display of lights and narrated stories that bring history to life.

The ancient stones come alive with vivid colors , casting shadows that dance across the colossal columns and statues.

Through a narrated journey , you will be transported across time, unraveling the tales of pharaohs, deities, and the civilization that once thrived here.

This enchanting spectacle is more than just a show; it is a magical way to connect with Luxor’s rich heritage and experience the echoes of the past in an unforgettable and immersive setting.

Things to Do in Luxor / The Sound and Light Show at the The Karnak Temple

Things to Do in Luxor / The Sound and Light Show at the Karnak Temple 

Stay at Historic Sofitel Winter Palace

Hands down, the Sofitel Winter Palace is the place to stay while in Luxor . If it is out of your price range, then just do it for at least one night! It is an experience like no other and it should be on your Luxor bucket list.

The Sofitel Winter Palace Hotel is a historic British colonial-era 5-star luxury resort hotel. Its location is absolutely perfect. It is right on the bank of the River Nile between the Luxor and Karnak Temples.

When you step inside and look at the furnishings and artwork, you will feel as if you traveled back in time. In addition, the Sofitel Winter Palace is surrounded by beautifully manicured grounds. Besides the location and the ambiance, I have to say that the service was absolutely impeccable. The attention to detail really impressed me.

Things to Do in Luxor / Sofitel Winter Palace 

The Sofitel Winter Palace houses 5 restaurants. However, the 1886 Restaurant , which serves French cuisine, should not be missed.

Needless to say, I was thrilled to stay at a place where Agatha Christie wrote her famous 1937 novel ‘Death on the Nile’.

Eat Traditional Egyptian Cuisine at Sofra

Are you looking for a place to try some traditional Egyptian food ? Stop searching and head directly to Sofra . You will not be disappointed. It is one of those hidden gems in Luxor.

First of all, you will love the ambiance. This place is quiet and comfortable and beautifully decorated with oriental furniture, copper lamps, and paintings. Second, the service is excellent . They will make you feel at home and go above and beyond to make sure you have a great dining experience.

Things to Do in Luxor / Sofra Restaurant in Luxor

But, above all, try some different dishes. The menu is in English with a description of each dish , so you should have no problems deciding what to try.

To start off, I suggest some cold and hot mezze, which are small salads and appetizers. And, to narrow down the selection, how about some roasted aubergines with sesame oil, lemon, parsley, garlic & tahini dip. Yum!

Next, continue with the main dish. They have stuffed duck and pigeon, oven-roasted rabbit, or you can try some chicken stewed in spicy tomato sauce. My suggestion is to try a selection of kebabs and add Koushry, which is a rice and pasta mix. I have to say Koushry was delicious.

By the way, they have quite a variety of fresh juices. The list is extensive. I recommend trying the fresh guava juice.

If you still have any room left, then go for a traditional Egyptian dessert called Roz Bil Haleeb, which is cooked rice with milk topped with rosewater syrup and nuts with raisins.

Go on Felucca Ride

Take a break from all the sightseeing and go on a felucca ride. What is more perfect than a felucca ride after a long day of visiting the archaeological sites? Second to none, in my opinion!

Things to Do in Luxor / Felucca in Luxor

To start with, make sure that there is some breeze in the forecast , otherwise, it is a no-go. Furthermore, start your sailing right about sunset time, you will get some good photos at that time. However, if you hang on till the golden hour, you will get awesome pictures.

And, finally, be prepared to be amazed by the skyline of Luxor as it gradually becomes all lit up.

So, sit back and unwind as you sail along the River Nile and let the incredible Temples of Karnak and Luxor slide past you.

Kick Back in Style at Hilton Luxor Resort and Spa

If you need a little break from all the sightseeing, then I am recommending that you head to the spa located at Hilton Luxor Resort and Spa . It is definitely my top choice for a place where you can relax and get pampered .

First of all, if you just want to hang around and enjoy the spa facilities then they are all complimentary. You have a choice of Thermal areas (male and female) which include: a steam bath, herbal bath, Lacconium, reflexology basin, experience shower, Kneipp walk, indoor waterbeds relaxation room, and outdoor thermal garden.

Things to Do in Luxor / Hilton Luxor Resort and Spa

Hilton Luxor Resort and Spa

Intrepid Scout's Tips for Best Things to Do in Luxor

That’s quite a list, right? Now, if you only have a few days, what are the most important things to do in Luxor? OK, here are my top seven best things to do in Luxor that you absolutely cannot miss:

• Valley of the Kings
• Temple of Hatshepsut
• Colossi of Memnon
• Luxor Temple
• Karnak Temple
• The Sound and Light Show at the Karnak Temple
• The Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Luxor

Do you want to find out how to put all of these 7 sites and experiences into one epic Luxor itinerary? Click here to view my Perfect 2-Day Itinerary to Luxor.

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5 thoughts on “ 18 Amazing Things to Do in Luxor (Your Ultimate Luxor Bucket List) ”

I really liked your article! I visited Luxor in 2021 and it has become one of my favorite places in Egypt. Especially the Habu temple took my breath away.

Hi Lena, Thank you! Luxor has many great sites to visit. Have you been to Abu Simbel?

Yes! I loved Abu Simbel, it was so impressive!

I am getting info from all other sources that QV 66 Nefartari tomb at Valley of Queens is closed since 2003. When did you visit it while writing this blog? That you mentioned special entry ticket price suggests you did go in but I am confused.

Hi Sobhan, The tomb has been opened and closed repeatedly since 2003. Be prepared for constantly changing rules while visiting Egypt. I sent a message to my sources in Egypt and was told that currently the tomb is open to visitors, however, it might change without any advance notice. When are you going to Egypt?

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Must-see attractions in Luxor

Amun Temple Enclosure

Amun-Ra was the local god of Karnak (Luxor) and during the New Kingdom, when the princes of Thebes ruled Egypt, he became the preeminent state god, with a…

Valley of the Kings

The west bank of Luxor had been the site of royal burials since around 2100 BC, but it was the pharaohs of the New Kingdom period (1550–1069 BC) who chose…

Karnak is an extraordinary complex of sanctuaries, kiosks, pylons and obelisks dedicated to the Theban triad but also to the greater glory of pharaohs…

Tomb of Seti I (KV 17)

One of the great achievements of Egyptian art, this cathedral-like tomb is the finest in the Valley of the Kings. Long closed to visitors, it is now…

Medinat Habu

Ramses III’s magnificent memorial temple of Medinat Habu, fronted by sleepy Kom Lolah village and backed by the Theban mountains, is one of the west bank…

Luxor Museum

This wonderful museum has a well-chosen and brilliantly displayed and explained collection of antiquities dating from the end of the Old Kingdom right…

Tomb of Ramses VI (KV 9)

With some of the broadest corridors, longest shafts (117m) and greatest variety of decoration, KV 9 is one of the most spectacular tombs in the valley…

Tombs of the Nobles

These tombs are some of the best least-visited attractions on the west bank. Nestled in the foothills opposite the Ramesseum are more than 400 tombs…

Tombs of Sennofer & Rekhmire

The most interesting parts of the tomb of Sennofer, overseer of the Garden of Amun under Amenhotep II, are to be found deep underground, in the main…

Luxor Temple

Largely built by the New Kingdom pharaohs Amenhotep III (1390–1352 BC) and Ramses II (1279–1213 BC), this temple is a strikingly graceful monument in the…

Memorial Temple of Hatshepsut

At Deir Al Bahri, the eyes first focus on the dramatic rugged limestone cliffs that rise nearly 300m above the desert plain, only to realise that at the…

Tomb of Tutankhamun (KV 62)

The story of the celebrated discovery of the famous tomb and all the fabulous treasures it contained far outshines the reality of the small tomb of a…

Colossi of Memnon

The two faceless Colossi of Memnon, originally representing Pharaoh Amenhotep III, rising majestically about 18m from the plain, are the first monuments…

Ramses II called his massive memorial ‘the Temple of Millions of Years of User-Maat-Ra’; classical visitors called it the tomb of Ozymandias; and Jean…

Tomb of Ramses III (KV 11)

One of the most popular tombs in the valley, KV 11 is also one of the most interesting and best preserved. Originally started by Sethnakht (1186–1184 BC),…

Deir Al Medina

This site takes its name from a Ptolemaic temple, later converted to a Coptic monastery – the Monastery of the Town – but the real attraction is the…

Tomb of Nefertari

Nefertari's tomb is hailed as one of the finest in the Theban necropolis – and all of Egypt for that matter. Nefertari was one of five wives of Ramses II,…

Valley of the Queens

At the southern end of the Theban hillside, the Valley of the Queens contains at least 75 tombs that belonged to queens of the 19th and 20th dynasties as…

Tomb of Tuthmosis III (KV 34)

Hidden in the hills between high limestone cliffs, and reached only via a steep staircase that crosses an even steeper ravine, this tomb demonstrates the…

Carter’s House & the Replica Tomb of Tutankhamun

The domed mud-brick house where Howard Carter lived during his search for Tutankhamun’s tomb is surrounded by a garden on what is otherwise a barren slope…

Tomb of Amenhotep II (KV 35)

This 91m-long tomb was built for Amenhotep II (sometimes also called Amenophis II), who succeeded his father, the great king Tuthmosis III. Amenophis died…

Tomb of Horemheb (KV 57)

Horemheb was Tutankhamun's general, who succeeded Ay, Tutankhamun's briefly reigning tutor. His tomb has beautiful decoration that shows the first use of…

Although only the burial chamber is decorated, this tomb, tucked away in the West Valley, is noted for its scenes of Ay hunting hippopotamus and fishing…

Tomb of Tuthmosis IV (KV 43)

The tomb of Tuthmosis IV (1400–1390 BC) is one of the largest and deepest tombs constructed during the 18th dynasty. It is also the first in which paint…

Tomb of Tawosret/Sethnakht (KV 14)

Tawosret was the wife of Seti II and after his successor Siptah died, she took power herself (1188–1186 BC). Egyptologists think she began the tomb for…

Tomb of Merenptah (KV 8)

The second-largest tomb in the valley, Merenptah’s tomb has been open since antiquity and has its share of Greek and Coptic graffiti. Floods have damaged…

Tombs of Menna, Nakht & Amenemope

The beautiful and highly colourful wall paintings in the tomb of Menna and the tomb of Nakht emphasise rural life in 18th-dynasty Egypt. Menna was an…

Tomb of Ramses IV (KV 2)

Originally intended to be much larger, KV 2 was cut short at 89m on the early death of the pharaoh (1147 BC) and a pillared hall was converted to be the…

Tombs of Ramose, Userhet & Khaemhet

The tomb of Ramose, a governor of Thebes under Amenhotep III and Akhenaten, is fascinating because it is one of the few monuments dating from a period of…

Tomb of Mentuherkhepeshef (KV 19)

The only tomb of a prince that you can visit in the Valley of the Kings (others are closed), this was decorated for Prince Rameses Mentuherkhepeshef (c…

Tomb of Ramses IX (KV 6)

Only half decorated at the time of the king's death and open since antiquity, this is not the most interesting tomb in the valley, but it is one the most…

Tomb of Amunherkhepshef

If you can't afford entry to the Tomb of Nefertari, the valley’s showpiece is the tomb of Amunherkhepshef, with beautiful, well-preserved reliefs…

Tomb of Titi

The tomb of Queen Titi has a corridor leading to a square chapel, off which is the burial chamber and two smaller rooms. The paintings are faded, but you…

Theban Community Library

The latest project from Professor Kent Weeks and the Theban Mapping Project is the first open library in Luxor, a free service with general books in…

Tomb of Seti II (KV 15)

Adjacent to the tomb of Tawosret/Sethnakht is a smaller tomb where it seems Sethnakht buried Seti II (1200–1194 BC) after turfing him out of KV 14. Open…

Tomb of Sennedjem

The tomb of Sennedjem is stunningly decorated and contains two small chambers with some exquisite paintings. Sennedjem was a 19th-dynasty artist who lived…

Tomb of Inherka

Inherka was a 19th-dynasty servant who worked in the Place of Truth in the Valley of the Kings. His beautifully adorned one-room tomb has magnificent wall…

Tomb of Peshedu

Peshedu was another 19th-dynasty servant in the Place of Truth and had himself portrayed praying under a palm tree beside a lake, an image that has become…

Temple of Seti I

Seti I, who built the superbly decorated temple at Abydos, his beautiful tomb in the Valley of the Kings and Karnak’s magnificent hypostyle hall, died…

Hassan Fathy’s mud-brick village lies just past the railway track on the road from the ferry to the Antiquities Inspectorate ticket office. Although built…

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Luxor and Ancient Thebes, Egypt: The Complete Guide

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One of Egypt 's most important and best-loved ancient sights , Luxor is commonly referred to as the world's greatest open-air museum. The modern city of Luxor is built on and around the site of the ancient city of Thebes, which historians estimate to have been inhabited since 3200 BC. It is also home to the Karnak temple complex, which served as the main place of worship for the Thebans. Together, the three sites have been attracting tourists since Greco-Roman times, all of them drawn by the area's incredible collection of ancient temples and monuments. 

Luxor's Golden Age

Luxor's history pre-dates the modern city and is inextricably woven with that of Thebes, the legendary metropolis known to the ancient Egyptians as Waset. 

Thebes reached the height of its splendor and influence in the period from 1550 to 1050 BC. At this time, it served as the capital of a newly unified Egypt and became known as a center of economy, art, and architecture associated with the Egyptian god Amun . The pharaohs that ruled during this period spent vast sums of money on temples designed to honor Amun (and themselves), and so the incredible monuments for which the city is famous today were born. During this period, known as the New Kingdom, many pharaohs and their queens elected to be buried in the necropolis at Thebes, known today as the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens. 

Top Attractions in Luxor

Located on the east bank of the River Nile, present-day Luxor should be the first stop for visitors to the region. Start at the Luxor Museum , ranked by Lonely Planet as one of the top museums in the country. Here, exhibitions filled with artifacts from the surrounding temples and tombs give a comprehensive introduction to the area's must-see attractions. Signs written in Arabic and English introduce priceless pharaonic art, colossal statues, and intricate jewelry. In an annex dedicated to the treasures of the New Kingdom, you'll find two royal mummies, one believed to be the remains of Ramesses I.

If you find yourself fascinated by the process of mummification, don't miss the nearby Mummification Museum with its displays of carefully preserved human and animal remains. 

The main attraction in Luxor itself, however, is the  Luxor Temple . Construction was started by Amenhotep III in approximately 1390 BC, with additions by a series of later pharaohs including Tutankhamun and Ramesses II. Architectural highlights include a colonnade of soaring columns decorated with hieroglyphic reliefs; and a gateway guarded by two massive statues of Ramesses II. 

Top Attractions in Karnak

North of Luxor itself lies the Karnak temple complex. In ancient times, Karnak was known as Ipet-isut, or The Most Selected of Places, and served as the main place of worship for 18th-dynasty Thebans. The first pharaoh to build there was Senusret I during the Middle Kingdom, although most of the buildings that remain date back to the New Kingdom golden age. Today, the site is a vast complex of sanctuaries, kiosks, pylons, and obelisks, all dedicated to the Theban Triad (Amun, his consort Mut, and their son Khonsu). It is thought to be the second largest religious complex in the world after Angkor Wat in Cambodia. If there's one sight to top your bucket list, it should be the Great Hypostyle Hall , part of the Precinct of Amun-Re. 

Top Attractions in Ancient Thebes

Head across the River Nile to the West Bank and discover the great necropolis of ancient Thebes. Of its many sections, the most visited is the Valley of the Kings , where the pharaohs of the New Kingdom chose to be entombed in preparation for the afterlife. Their mummified bodies were buried alongside everything they wanted to take with them, including furniture, jewelry, clothes, and supplies of food and drink contained within great urns. There are more than 60 known tombs in the Valley of the Kings, many of which have long been stripped of their treasures. Of these, the most famous (and most intact) is the tomb of Tutankhamun, a minor pharaoh who ruled for just nine years. 

To the south of the Valley of the Kings lies the Valley of the Queens , where members of the pharaohs' families were buried (including both men and women). Although there are more than 75 tombs in this section of the necropolis, only a handful are open to the public. Of these, the most famous is that of Queen Nefertari, the walls of which are covered with magnificent paintings. 

In the summer months (May to September), the heat can make sightseeing uncomfortable but budget travelers may be able to get good discounts on Luxor accommodation and tours. Winter (December to February) is the coolest time of year, but also the busiest and most expensive. The best time to travel is during the March to April and October to November shoulder seasons, when the crowds are less intense and temperatures are still bearable.

Where to Stay

There are many accommodation options to choose from in Luxor, most of them located on the east bank. You should be able to find something for every budget, from affordable options like the top-rated, three-star Nefertiti Hotel (with rates starting from around $22 per night for a single room); to the splendid luxury of five-star hotels like the historic Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor . The exchange rate is such that foreign visitors will be able to stay comfortably without breaking the bank. Check the TripAdvisor listing for Luxor for a full list of options.

Getting There

Many people will visit Luxor as part of a longer tour or Nile cruise (it's the starting point for most cruise itineraries). If you plan on visiting independently, you can catch regular buses and trains from Cairo and other major towns across Egypt. Alternatively, Luxor International Airport (LXR) allows you to fly in from a myriad of domestic and international departure points. Consider joining a day tour led by an Egyptologist guide to get a better understanding of what you're seeing. There are many different options listed on Viator , ranging from private luxury tours to hot air balloon flights over the temples.

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9 Amazing Experiences In Luxor, The Valley Of The Kings And Queens

• Destinations
• Middle East

Luxor, the historic city of Thebes, lies in southern Egypt and is called Upper Egypt by the ancient Egyptians because it lies closer to the source of the Nile River. Luxor is, apart from the Pyramids of Giza outside of Cairo, the heart of the Egyptian tourism industry, with incredible amounts of history found — quite literally just a hundred or so years ago — within a handful of miles from the city center. Luxor is also the place where you tend to fly in to catch a boat for the ever-popular Nile cruises.

When I first looked at Luxor as the setting-off point for my Nile cruise, I was utterly amazed by just how many important archeological sites are on both sides of the river, if more so on the West Bank, where you find the Valley of the Kings, among others. What a place this must have been not just 3,000 years ago, but also in the 1920s when all these treasures were being discovered. Even today, the excavations continue, with more and more important sites being discovered every day . 

Luxor itself is an interesting city, with the Luxor Temple, the traditional souk, and the Nile Promenade in the heart of the city, but it is mostly used as a base to head on day trips across the Nile to see the archeological sites. I spent several days there, taking it easy, as it can be very hot indeed, and the valleys are a forbidding place when it’s hot. Here I have collected my favorite things to experience in Luxor, Egypt.

Heading to Egypt? Here are the best Egypt hotels for your next vacation.

1. Exploring Luxor Temple

Luxor Temple was, after the pyramids and the Sphinx, the first ancient Egyptian temple I saw. Sitting right by the Nile, it was beautifully lit up at night and I spotted it from the taxi on the way to my hotel. Needless to say, this was the first stop for my explorations in and around the city the following day. Entering right opposite the old souk, the temple, constructed over centuries by Amenhotep III, Ramses II, Tutankhamun, and other pharaohs, was once the largest and most significant religious center in ancient Egypt. Compared to others you will see along the Nile, it is, in my mind, not the most impressive, but what is utterly outstanding and stunning is its Avenue of the Sphinxes: 1.5 miles of avenue connecting Luxor Temple with Karnak Temple, flanked by what was thought to have been around 1,350 statues of sphinxes. Further on, you’ll see rams, all sitting at attention. Today, not all have been found and the restoration is still ongoing, but standing there, looking down the avenue, is one of the most exhilarating experiences in Luxor.

2. Lightshow At Karnak Temple

Standing at the end of the Avenue of Sphinxes is Karnak Temples, famous for being the backdrop for one of the scenes in the James Bond film The Spy Who Loved Me . You know, the temple with the enormously tall columns, set during a light show at night? That one. The temple is wonderful, a huge complex, and one fun way of experiencing it, with a bit of film nostalgia thrown in, is during the nighttime light show. You get to go on a guided walk, hearing about the history of the temple and its various pharaohs. End the walk sitting by the lake, with perfect reflections of the temple on the water, listening to music and stories of the past with Luxor glittering in the background.

3. Ballooning At Sunrise

Getting up at 4 a.m. is not my favorite thing, I’ll tell you that much, but for a sunrise balloon flight on the other side of the Nile, there is no other option. Being picked up at the hotel, taking a small ferry across the Nile, and then arriving at a field where 20-odd hot air balloons are in various states of inflation is still quite magical. But taking off, with the sun rising on the East Bank, the green field of the Nile below you, and colorful balloons all around you is more than magical. Watching the countless temples, tombs, and valleys below, the Nile with its sharp demarcation between green fields and bleak, sandy desert, the villages waking up, and people riding their donkeys is simply wonderful. For an hour, we flew, not straying far, but there was so much to see. We landed right next to a dig site, scattering archeologists who were not happy, but obviously quite accustomed to the morning spectacle.

4. Valley Of The Kings

This is what we all come to Luxor for: tombs of pharaohs that are so incredibly and beautifully decorated, and preserved yet are thousands of years old. I cannot even begin to describe to you what wonders you will see. Navigating at times very steep stairs down into stifling hot tombs is worth it, and I have seen little old ladies taking on the task and yet loving every minute. Take it slowly if you have rickety knees or wobbly feet, and you will be rewarded. Richly. There are more than 60 tombs in this stark valley with no vegetation, but only a few are open to the public. Of those, each and every one is worth seeing, and three are included in your normal entry tickets. Pay extra to see the tombs of Ramses V & VI (KV9), Seti I (KV17), and not forgetting Tutankhamun (KV62). Do not miss these, and if pushed for time, forget the others, and just pay extra and see these. You will not regret it.

5. Valley Of The Queens And The Mortuary Temple Of Hatshepsut

The Valley of the Queens is the counterpart of the Valley of the Kings, with some 90-odd tombs on the site. However, only a few are worthwhile stopping off for, with the tomb of Nefertari, wife of Ramses II, the most notable. A word of advice — try, if you can, to view these before you head to the Valley of the Kings, because after all the splendor there, these are not half as glamorous. But still worth your while.

Next to the Valley of the Queens stands the imposing Temple of Hatshepsut, one of the very few, and best-known female pharaohs. She is revered for being one of the most successful pharaohs, ruled for over 15 years, and was known to be quite the builder of temples and cities. 

6. The Tombs Of The Nobles

Near the Colossi of Memnon, which sits by the side of the road, and makes for a perfect selfie-spot on the way to the Valley of the Kings. You will see countless holes in the ground, in the hillside, everywhere. These are the Tombs of the Nobles, tombs of people with influence, in ancient Egypt, but not royal. More than 415 have been found, and more are being unearthed continuously. If you just visit one, make it the Tomb of Ramose and then stop off at the small artisan study and shop outside. Here, two craftsmen fashion sculptures and pictures in the old traditional way, and their skill is magnificent to watch. Their work makes for worthwhile souvenirs, too.

7. The Village Of The Artisans, Deir-El-Medina

This site is often overlooked on tours that concentrate on the tombs and temples of the pharaohs, yet this village is where all the artisans lived, those craftsmen who decorated the magnificent tombs. Here are the remains of the village, from where they climbed across the mountain ridge into the Valley of the Kings, together with some open tombs of the artisans themselves.

8. Stay At The Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor

The Winter Palace is the historic hotel where all the dignitaries and, more importantly, where the archeologists who discovered the treasures on the West Bank stayed in their day. It is a little shabby around the edges but eminently charming, and the garden is simply to die for. The large pool is heaven-sent after a day looking at tombs in dusty valleys.

9. Eat At Sofra

For some authentic Egyptian food away from your hotel or cruise ship, head straight to Sofra Restaurant . Just off the bustling El-Mansheya Street, which, at night is full of food stalls selling sweets, super-sized chapati breads, ready-to-eat dishes to take away, and fresh juices. In a quiet side street lies this lovely restaurant where you can sit on the open terrace on the upper floor and sample local dishes without having to try and eat as you navigate the traffic. Clean, nicely decorated, and with friendly waiters who can suggest dishes to you in halting English, this is a great place to sit after a long day’s sightseeing. Try the Khiyar Bil Zabadi , the local version of Tzatziki, the hummus, and the Salata Baladi for starters. If you are not averse to trying local specialties, try the pigeon, or the rabbit for mains, all washed down with fresh melon or pomegranate juice.

Pro Tip: The most important piece of advice I can give is to spend a few days in Luxor. So many people fly in, catch their cruise ship, and head off after a quick look at the Valley of the Kings, but there is much to keep you occupied. So please, stay awhile.

The Egyptian archeological sites have always been a huge attraction for visitors:

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A travel writer and guidebook author for the last 20 years, Ulrike's work has been seen in National Geographic , BBC , The Independent , Australian Women's Weekly , The Telegraph , The Australian , Fodor's , France Today , CNN Travel , Lonely Planet , Travel + Leisure , CNTraveler , numerous inflight magazines, and many others.

She has written three books for Moon Travel Guides: 'Living Abroad in Australia' (3rd edition), 'Sydney & the Great Barrier Reef', and the shorter version 'Spotlight Sydney' and are all available in print and as e-books.

Having lived in seven countries (Germany, UK, Qatar, Oman, UAE, Australia, and France) to date and traveled to more than 100, she specializes in writing about travel, art and architecture, expat living, and life and style.

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Luxor Attractions

Discover the best tourist attractions in luxor.

Luxor is the most important archaeological site in all of Egypt. Established on the banks of the River Nile. The history of Luxor (originally called the city of Thebes) dates back to 3,200 BC. Still, the city did not prosper until well into 2,134 BC, during Dynasty 11, when Mentuhotep II put an end to conflicts, thus bringing peace and stability to the region, at which point Thebes began to prosper as a city until in 1,550 BC, during the 18th dynasty, it became the political and regional capital of Egypt.

Luxor has been ruled by some of the most important and famous pharaohs in Egyptian history. To this day, many of its tombs, monuments, and temples of worship still stand, perfectly preserved, including the tomb of the world-famous Tutankhamun.

Luxor is the most important archaeological site in all of Egypt and, in this guide, we will going to show you what to see in Luxor.

• Luxor Temple

Karnak Temple

Hatshepsut Temple

Colossi of Memnon

Luxor Museum

The Ramesseum

Temple of Abydos

Temple of Dendera

Tombs of The Nobles

Valley of the Kings

Egypt at a glance.

Sail in the Nile River in a felucca, marvel at the pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx, explore the Valley of the Kings where Egypt’s pharaohs were buried, most famously King Tutankhamun in gold. Join your expert Egypt Time Travel on the journey back in time to one of the first civilizations in the world.

What will you like there?

• Your Truly One Stop Shop From monuments to flowing rivers, vast deserts, world-famous coral reef sites, beaches, world cities, and monuments, everything can be found in Egypt. This means you'll never have to browse hundreds of potential destinations around the world for the perfect vacation.
• Home of the Great Pyramids… and Much More Although different tourist attractions all over the world provide only a glimpse of the past, only in Egypt can you really stand on the display platform on the Pyramids plateau and have a good look at the solo that has been excluded from the ancient wonders of the world. Tourists who come here for sightseeing discover that these legendary pyramids are only the tip of the huge icebergs.
• Hospitality, Egyptian-Style Egypt is said to be the most travel-friendly North African and Middle Eastern country. The people here are friendly and welcome and treat everyone in a way that makes them part of their family.
• Budget-Friendly Compared to other destinations in the world, Egypt is definitely one of the best places to guarantee real value for money. You can book a tour package according to your needs and budget, and you are categorized.

What to pack for Egypt?

• Adaptor plug In Egypt, the standard voltage is 220 V and the power plugs and sockets are of type C and F. The standard frequency is 50 Hz.
• Comfortable shoes From exploring the Great Pyramids of Giza to wandering the Botanical Gardens, you’ll need a comfortable pair of shoes on your Egypt holiday.
• Light clothing Egypt is known for its blazing heat, so it’s best to wear light, loose-fit clothing. Since Egypt is a Muslim country, you’ll need to ensure your shoulders and knees are covered.
• Sunglasses The sunshine can be blinding in Egypt, so bring a pair of sunglasses to protect you from the sun rays and the sandy desert.
• Sunscreen Protect yourself from the sun with SPF 30 or higher and be sure to apply it regularly. It’s also advised to bring a hat and a light scarf to shield your skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do i need a visa for egypt how does one get an egypt visa.

Tourists going to Egypt need to obtain a visa from one of the Egyptian diplomatic missions. There are several countries that are exempted from countries or countries that are eligible for visas on arrival but India is not one for them. So for Indian citizens, holding passports that are valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival to Egypt is a necessity in order to get a visa.

The application process for obtaining an Egypt visa can be done online by submitting necessary documents. The entire procedure is listed on the Egyptian government official website and is easy to understand.

When is the best time to visit Egypt?

Egypt can be visited anytime in the year. However, the months of summer can be particularly hot, dry, and sunny; especially in regions like Luxor and Aswan that are towards the south of Egypt. The best time to visit Egypt can be claimed from September through to April when the weather is rather pleasant and bearable to tourists belonging to cold regions.

What are the best things to do in Egypt?

Egypt is the home to ancient Pharaohs, vast tracts of desert, superb scuba diving, the famed Nile River and so many more things. There are several places to be visited and many activities to indulge in. So to choose a few activities amongst so many options becomes a task. However, we are ready with our homework and our top things to do in Egypt are-

• Get amazed by the Pyramids of Giza
• Visit Luxor’s Karnak Temple and the Valley of the Kings
• Visit Islamic Cairo
• Explore Aswan
• Spend time at Abu Simbel
• Visit Egyptian Museum
• Discover the White Desert
• Visit Siwa Oasis
• Visit Alexandria
• Explore St. Catherine’s Monastery
• Relax at South Sinai
• Pray at Abydos Temple

What is the local food in Egypt? Which are the best places to taste this food?

Egyptian cuisine makes it a blend of a lot of legumes, vegetables and fruits. Since Egypt’s rich Nile Valley along with the delta produces large quantities of these crops, all in high quality; people of the country consume the same in great numbers. Here are some dishes you must try on your visit to the country. You may not remember the names of every dish, so you can take note of them or refer to us whenever needed-

• Ful we Ta’meya
• Kabab we kofta
• Hawawshi (Egyptian meat pie)
• Baladi Bread

Which are the best shopping places in Egypt and what are they famous for?

The Souks, or the local markets, and the larger bazaars are among the most remarkable attractions of Egypt. The markets of Egypt are famous for selling The Shisha, the traditional Egyptian waterpipes, a large collection of backgammon boards, decorative boxes, and many other handicrafts, Sandals, bags, and shoes, marvelous pottery products, etc.

• Aswan touristic market
• Khan El Khalili Market in the Hussein District in Cairo
• Cairo Festival City Mall. Ring Road
• Emerald Empire (Twin Plaza)
• Citystars (Stars Centre) Mall of Arabia
• Downtown Mall.
• Arkan Plaza
• Dandy Mega Mall
• San Stefano Mall

Which are some famous archaeological sites in Egypt?

Egypt is home to numerous archaeological sites. Each one depicts the history and culture of this land. A lot of them are in Cairo alone but exploring and visiting each one of these sites is not possible. So here are the best ones-

• Giza Pyramid
• Egyptian Museum
• Mohmmad Ali Mosque
• Khan El Khalili
• Aswan – Temple of Hathor
• Kartak Temple
• Kom Elshuqafa
• Roman Amphitheatre
• Graeco Museum

Which are some romantic places in Egypt for a honeymoon?

While not everybody will consider Egypt to be a honeymoon destination, the uninterrupted and lesser crowded places are actually great to be at with your partner. In case you still can’t imagine where to go for your honeymoon in Egypt, trust us, the below places are the ideal choice.

• Sharm-El-Sheikh

Why Egypt Time Travel!

Egypt Time Travel offers hundreds of tours and activities for travelers around all Egypt. Experience everything Egypt has to offer! Choose from sightseeing tours to spa escapes to interactive cultural programs and so much more. With new destinations added daily and an easy way to manage your fun.

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34 Fun & Unsusual Things to Do in Luxor, Egypt

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Historically known as Thebes and holding the title “The World’s Greatest Open-Air Museum” – Luxor, Egypt welcomes curious adventurers with its collection of the oldest Ancient Egyptian sites, transporting all back to a time when Pharaohs and dynasties ruled this important civilization!

Situated next to the Nile River, explore the abundance of things to do in Luxor , starting with wandering through the famed Karnak and Luxor Temple! Set foot inside, look up at the towering columns sustaining the temples, and appreciate the wall hieroglyphics and carvings still visible today.

Cruise along the historic Nile River to appreciate the local way of life as you pass small villages, the grand city, and historical monuments, painting a picture of Luxor from the past to the present.

Those looking for adventure, seek out a Jeep tour and take off for the desert or hop on a thrilling hot air balloon to see the sun’s golden rays bounce off the Sun God’s temple.

From endless traditional restaurants, traditional souks, informative museums, and more, let’s reveal all the activities and attractions to do in Luxor!

1 – See the ancient burial grounds at Valley of the Kings

Visit the main burial grounds for Egyptian Royals’ at the 11th-century Valley of the Kings, located beside the Nile River!

Walk through the tombs, with the majority of them belonging to important Pharaohs that were buried between 1539-1075 BC. The first important ruler to be buried here was Thutmose l (18th Dynasty King of Egypt) who expanded the empire of Egypt during his reign.

When you book a tour of the Valley of the Kings, you’ll also visit the most popular tomb of King Tutankhamun, and learn interesting facts about his tomb, while looking at some of the hieroglyphics.

On your tour, you’ll get to stop at the Hatshepsut Temple and admire its historic architecture, and for even more fun – consider a hot air balloon ride over the Valley of the Kings for epic views!

• Valley of the Kings tours in Luxor

2 – Sail through the Nile River on a felucca tour

Embark on a true Egyptian cruise experience when you book a sailing ride on a felucca tour!

A felucca is a traditional type of Egyptian sailboat made to sail over shallow waters, and lucky for you, there are tons of sailing felucca tours to explore the Nile River and a few other fun attractions along the way!

Enjoy a lovely 3-hour felucca boat tour down the Nile River, and stop by Banana and Camel Island for some refreshing swimming, and a memorable camel ride through the desert terrain of the island, followed by lunch!

If you want a day-long, jam-packed day of experiences with endless fun, check out an all-inclusive Felucca tour with a hot air balloon experience, a camel ride, and even a trip to Kings of Valley!

Felucca tours start at $36 USD.

• sailing felucca tours in Luxor

3 – Marvel at the history inside the Luxor Temple

Explore the mystical Luxor Temple, and discover its fascinating origins as a holy space where the greatest Pharaohs of Egypt were crowned, either physically or symbolically, and the meaning behind the Temple of Kingship.

Throughout the years, the Luxor Temple, which dates back to 1400 BCE was captured and changed to become a strict religious space, from a church to a mosque, over 3,4000 consecutive years.

On a Luxor temple tour, guided by an Egyptologist, you’ll get to explore a few other sites near Luxor Temple, including the nearby Karnak Temple, and you’ll get to learn about the Kabash path that connects both temples.

Something else to consider is an East Bank tour in Luxor , which includes a full-day tour of the must-see landmarks on the East Bank, including the Luxor Temple!

• Luxor Temple tours

4 – Peek into the longest-running Mosque in Egypt at the Abou al-Haggag Mosque

Visit one of the world’s longest-running mosques – the Abou al-Haggag Mosque, located on the East Bank of the Nile River.

Dating back to the times when the Pharaoh Amenhotep lll was reigning in the 14th century BC, the Abou al-Haggag Mosque was named after a local Muslim leader, Youssef, who spread Islam around the area and was known for his care of Muslim pilgrims.

Because of his actions, the mosque was named after him, and Abu Haggag which means Pilgrim in Arabic, became the name of the mosque. The mosque has dozens of ancient Egyptian artifacts and culture, from the statues to the columns, and the religious relics. Entry to the mosque is free.

Pro tip: Visit it at night to see the historic mosque light up in a beautiful light and music show.

5 – See the Nile River and historic landmarks from a hot air balloon

Have a pinch-me moment as you hop on a hot air balloon, offering stunning views of the coexistence of Luxor’s modern life and historic landmarks!

Choose from a variety of hot air balloon experiences, like a traditional sunrise 50-minute hot air balloon over Luxor’s famous landmarks, from tombs to ancient temples! Move through the sky and see the locals get to their day-to-day jobs and routines as the city starts to come alive before your eyes!

Some hot air balloons may include hotel pick up and drop off, which is helpful as the tours start very early in the morning, and in some cases, breakfast is included in your hot air balloon experience.

Other tours will also include tours to nearby temples and landmarks! Hot air balloon experiences start at $50 USD.

• hot air balloon rides in Luxor

6 – Walk the ruins of the grand Mortuary Temple of Amenhotep III

Also known as the Kom el-Hettân, the Mortuary Temple of Amenhotep lll is a temple dedicated to the deceased 9th Pharaoh of the 18th Egyptian dynasty. His rule between 1386-1349 BC, was known as a good time in Egypt as far as political stability and the construction of many important landmarks we see today.

Mortuary temples are known as temples where a Pharaoh was buried, and where the living would visit him, and continue to worship him. Iconically recognizable by the two large statues standing each on one side of the entry, the Mortuary Temple of Amenhotep lll was known to be one of the most opulent temples of its time, as large as 5 American football fields!

Though it’s been damaged by floods from the Nile River, archaeologists have been able to find a wealth of artifacts from repair works worth learning about!

7 – Travel through the West Bank on a camel ride

Enjoy a classic cruise through the deserts of Luxor on a traditional camel riding experience!

For 2 hours, enjoy getting to know your camel, and learning the basics of camel riding especially if it’s your first ride. Afterward, get ready to hop on, and gently trek through the golden, powder sands of the West Bank, while taking in the scenery of the Nile River on the horizon.

You’ll also get to explore the local charm of a few villages you’ll pass by, as well as a few farms too! Depending on which tour you choose, you may opt for a longer experience, and head to the countryside, and onto further away dunes and desserts.

On your camel riding journey, your expert guide will share interesting facts about Luxor, camels in ancient Luxor, and so much more!

• camel riding in Luxor

8 – Plan a day trip to Abydos

Check out one of the oldest sites in Ancient Egypt, Abydos, a historic city that dates back as early as 3,300 BCE, on the West Bank of Upper Egypt.

Throughout the years, Abydos has proven to shed light into the mystical world of Ancient Egypt as a whole, through what’s been found on the city grounds. One of those findings was the discovery of the original burial grounds of the first few Pharaohs, the city’s view of what was known as the “Passage to the Realm of the Dead” and many more important sites.

Get to know the historic city, and explore the many Abydos tours from Luxor, some with a bonus stop in the equally ancient town of Dendera! Uncover the mysteries of these two ancient cities through its temples, and hieroglyphics!

• Abydos tours from Luxor

9 – Visit the Sun God’s temple at the Precinct of Amun-Re

Visit the fascinating Precinct of Amun-Re, the only precinct of its kind open for visitors, that is part of the large Karnak Temple Complex.

Within the Karnak Temple Complex, there are 4 precincts, and the precinct of Amun-Re is one of the very few that are open. The Precinct of Amun-Re was a temple dedicated to the Sun God, believed to be the place where the Sun God manifested themselves. The Precinct of Amun-Re is conveniently the largest one out of them all, located right beside the Nile River.

Check out the incredible ruins of the Amun-Re temple, including the Hypostyle Hall, and remnants of colors and drawings on the large pillar and towering roof! See the Temple of the Cosmos, while learning about the Egyptian belief of temples and the creation of the world.

10 – Dig more into the history of Humanity at Luxor Museum

Visit the culmination of ancient Egyptian art at the Luxor Museum, housing invaluable Egyptian artifacts, art, and other historical finds throughout its 2 floors.

Inside, you can see everything from some of the treasured items found inside Pharaoh Tutankhamun’s grave, a variety of statues found at the temples, and even a few mummies belonging to two important Pharaohs!

Check out pieces from Karnak, including from Akhenaten’s temple as well as pieces of African art and culture dating back to the 18th century. In comparison to other Egyptian museums, many past visitors enjoy browsing through the Luxor Museum for its ample space, carefully curated exhibits, and relaxed ambiance.

Additionally, since Luxor is already known as an open-air museum, many of the remnants from the city’s tombs, temples, and landmarks are at this museum before anywhere else.

• Luxor Museum tickets & tours

11 – Wrap yourself up in knowledge at the Mummification Museum

Learn about the fascinating process of mummification at the Mummification Museum, and go over the process of this historic process of burying the dead in ancient Egypt.

From the canopic jars used to store the organs of the person, to the embalming process, the religious ceremonies that took place, and the beliefs that drove these practices, the Mummification Museum is by far one of the most incredible things to do in Luxor!

Take a glance at the different types of coffins, analyze what the hieroglyphics on the coffins mean, check out the different tools used to perform the small incisions on the body to extract the organs, and learn about the mummification process that was also practiced on pets, from dogs to crocodiles!

Tickets and tours to the Mummification Museum can be booked ahead of time!

• Mummification Museum tickets & tours

12 – Wake up early for a day trip to Dendera

Explore the ancient temple and ancient city of Dendera on a day trip from Luxor, located 60 kilometers north of Luxor on the West Bank of the Nile River.

The temple was dedicated to worshiping Hathor, known as the Goddess of Healing and Femininity, and it was also a place where miraculous cures were gifted by the Goddess, and where rituals and processions occurred for New Year and more.

With so much mystery and intrigue, the Dendera Temple is an amazing plan to explore on a day trip, the ancient history of this sacred space, with a private tour guide, and experienced driver.

On your tour, stop by a few other historic sites, like the Temple of Abydos, or if you want to, go for the Nile Cruise to Denedra with a tour and lunch included!

• Dendera tours from Luxor

13 – Book a tour to see the Hatshepsut Temple

Be amazed by the sheer beauty and state of the Hatshepsut Temple, a mortuary temple dedicated to the Pharaoh Hatshepsut, one of the first female Pharaohs in Egyptian history!

Admire the vision of statues, columns, and other historic hieroglyphics of the 3-story temple, with the incredible backdrop of the golden-colored rock canyons. When you book a tour of the Hatshepsut Temple from Luxor, you’ll get to learn more about the life of the Queen, from birth to her death, and everything she did in between.

The temple is truly an incredible sight to see, and on a tour, you’ll also get to stop by the Valley of the Kings and the Colossi of Memnon, or even get to hop on the Nile cruise with your visit to the Hatshepsut temple.

Pro tip: Flash-free photography is allowed.

• Hatshepsut Temple tours in Luxor

14 – Uncover the secrets of Valley of the Queens

After exploring the grand Valley of the Kings, make sure to visit the Valley of the Queens, the final resting place of the wives of the Pharaohs, only an 11-minute drive from the Valley of the Kings.

Very similar to the Valley of the Kings, the Valley of the Queens has 90 tombs and was also the final resting place for princes, princesses, and other members related to the Pharaohs. Unlike the safety measures taken for the Valley of the Kings, the tombs at Valley of the Queens unfortunately were stolen from on a few occasions, and today, only certain parts of the coffins are kept in relatively good shape.

Explore and learn more about Valley of the Queens on a tour from Luxor, starting at $51 USD!

• Valley of the Queens tours in Luxor

15 – Visit the ruins of the Mut Temple

Also located within the Karnak temple complex, the Mut Temple is another temple to check out with an interesting history, and site worth seeing.

The Mut Temple is named after the wife of the Sun God, and it stored many artifacts and cultural objects from ancient Egypt. During its time, it was also the space where many people came to cure themselves of illness with Mut. Mut was known as a healer, aside from her role of protecting the king and the kingship.

On your visit, take note of the impressive rows of ram-headed sphinxes, and ruins of the temple that remain today.  The temple is located only a few feet away from the Amun-Re Temple, the biggest temple in the Karnak Temple precinct.

16 – Set foot on the grounds of the holy Karnak temple

Walk through one of the most historic and important religious complexes in all of ancient Egypt at the Karnak Temple.

With over 200 acres, and the site of a pilgrimage base for over 1,500 years, the Karnak Temple is made up of 4 temples/precincts and was historically believed to be the place where creation began.

This space, according to the ancient text, was the place where the Sun God would interact with the local Egyptians, which made this site an important religious place for worship.

The whole temple was dedicated to 3 gods: Amun, Mut, and Khonsu, who was the Moon God. To see the impressive and remarkable Karnak Temple, make sure to book your day-long tour from Luxor, including other historical site visits to the Valley of the Kings and Queens.

• Karnak temple tours in Luxor

17 – See for yourself the Tomb of King Tutankhamun

Known as one of the most important archaeological finds, the Tomb of King Tutankhamun was one of the largest discoveries at the Valley of the Kings, as it was the best-preserved tomb out of the rest, which meant breakthroughs for the understanding of king burials in ancient Egypt!

Opened in 1922 by a British archaeologist, Howard Carter, the tomb of King Tut was finally unveiled, and so were the jewels and treasures found inside, including the mummy of Tutankhamun.

When you book a tour of the Tomb of King Tut at the Valley of the Kings, you’ll be able to step inside the historic Tomb of King Tut and see the sarcophagus and mummy. The rest of his precious items are kept safely at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo and the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza.

• Tomb of King Tutankhamun tours in Luxor

18 – End the day on an incredible quad tour

Get out to the dunes of the Egyptian desert on an adrenaline-inducing quad tour!

Get out of your comfort zone, and hop on a thrilling ride through the dunes and desserts not too far from Luxor on a quad tour! Enjoy an early sunrise quad tour, or opt for a sunset quad tour, equally taking in the outstanding gold colors of the sand complimented by the golden sun rays.

Some quad tours include a cruise down the Nile River on a motorboat, and all quad tours include a safety briefing, and a few practice laps, so even if you’ve never gotten on a quad tour, this is the perfect place to start!

Tours start at $45 USD, and also provide ground transport between the hotel and the desert!

• quad tours in Luxor

19  – Have the best meal and views on a dinner cruise

Imagine a soft breeze hitting you as you enjoy a traditional Egyptian meal on your cruise along the historic Nile River.

The Nile is a historical resource for Egypt, as this was an important source of water for agricultural needs and a means of travel and transport!

When looking into dinner cruises, check out all the options available, from classic dinner and cruise trip only, or a combined dinner and cruise fare, that includes a few stops to see some historic sites, and then heading off to dinner on the Nile.

Dinner cruises oftentimes include pick-up and drop-off services, a special tour guide who will offer insight and knowledge as you explore the Nile, and of course dinner and drinks.  Other dinner cruises include a buffet-style dinner, with live music for a more incredible time!

• dinner cruises in Luxor

20 – Get your picture with the Colossi of Memnon

Take note of the towering two stone-made statues that sit at the entry of the Mortuary Temple of Amenhotep lll, called the Colossi of Memnon.

Most recognizable for their 3,000-year-old stance, the image of these statues is that of 2 kings sitting down on their thrones at the entry of the temple. After a significant earthquake, one of the statues had a portion of it fall off, and it was said that every day at dusk, a strange sound would come out of the statue, many of which said it was “singing”.

It has since been fixed, and although the statue doesn’t sing anymore, the Colossi of Memnon is quite the sight to see on a tour of the Mortuary temple of Pharaoh Amenhotep lll.

• Colossi of Memnon tours in Luxor

21 – Giddy up on a horse riding experience

Journey through the magnificent landscapes of Luxor and nearby on a horse riding trip, passing idyllic villages, the wide coast, and even the desert on a fun 2-3 hour experience!

Whether you’ve ridden horseback before or not, you’ll love the experience of riding through the Egyptian landscape, following your tour guide as they share interesting tidbits about Luxor and the different sites along the way.

Your guide will ensure to give you safety tips and riding tips, along with providing you with your free helmet and chaps for the experience.

To enjoy the experience even further, couple your horse riding experience with a hot air balloon ride, quad biking, a Felucca boat tour, and a meal in the whole-day experience, or for an old-school experience, look into the romantic horse carriage ride through Luxor!

• horse riding in Luxor

22 – See the visible details on the Habu Temple

Investigate the history of the Habu Temple, also known as the Temple of Ramesses lll, an ancient temple that was dedicated to Amun, God of the Air, after his appearance there, and then afterward, another memorial temple was built known as the Temple of Ramses lll.

Known as one of the last best-preserved mortuary temples on the West Bank, you can still make out the detailed carvings on the pylons of the temple, shedding a light on the story behind the temple, and it’s used from a refuge from war to a Christian church and much more.

Make sure to book a West Bank tour which includes a stop at Habu Temple, where you can walk through the temple, and appreciate a closer look at some of the original paintings still visible!

• Habu Temple tours in Luxor

23 – Visit the crypts of workers at Valley of the Artisans

Go to the highly underrated Valley of the Artisians, similar to the Valley of Kings and Queens, which is the official burial ground of the workers that built the famous graves and tombs of the Valley of the Kings and Queens.

Built under the belief that those who were in charge of constructing the tombs of the Pharaohs, were gifted and inspired spiritually to create the tombs, step inside the 3 crypts and see what their tombs looked like.

Explore the ruins of the graves, as well as the small temple of the Egyptian Goddess of love and truth nearby. Aside from its fascinating history, visiting the Valley of the Artisans is one of the best places to visit in Luxor due to fewer visits and shorter lines to see the crypts.

• Valley of the Artisans tours in Luxor

24 – Refresh yourself with some Utopia Island snorkeling

Book a fun snorkeling tour from Luxor through the Red Sea at Utopia Island where the group will take care of everything for your refreshing dive from accessories, transportation, guide, and more!

Board the snorkeling boat, and your on-board guide will take you to the best snorkeling spots, so you can relish taking a peek at the sea life from colorful coral to schools of fish and so much more! Enjoy a swim in the turquoise blue waters, and then hop on a banana boat ride to explore Utopia Island!

At the end of your snorkel adventures, you’ll be able to replenish your energy at the boat’s open buffet for lunch, and drinks.

Snorkeling experiences start at $128 USD and can last anywhere between 3-8 hours.

• snorkeling tours from Luxor

25 – Walk through the Avenue of the Rams

Also known as The Sphinx Avenue, the Avenue of the Rams is a long avenue that stretches between Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple. Re-opened in 2011 after over 3,000 years of construction, the Avenue of the Rams is a definitive top sight to see while in Luxor!

As you walk the 3 kilometers between the temples, note the differences in the statues, as the sphinxes have ram heads instead of traditional human heads, and if you look closer, you’ll be able to spot the royal seal of Cleopatra.

Cleopatra and Mac Antony visited the temple while they were passing through the Nile River, and therefore, the royal seal was placed to commemorate her visit.

Pro tip: If you can, visit the temples at night to see the beautiful lights illuminate the statues and complexes.

26 – Roam the living history at the Karnak Open-air Museum

Learn more about the Karnak Temple complex at the Karnak Open-Air Museum, and see pieces of the structure of the temple placed back together, detailing more of the history, and transporting you back to the time of Pharaohs.

Located across from the Great Court and the Ramses lll Temple, the Kanak Open-Air Museum is one of the popular activities to do in Luxor because of its impressive excavations on display.

The Kanak Open-Air Museum has undergone excavations since the late 19th century, and today, the towering columns, wall paintings, and carvings are all visible to simply walk through, and explore on your own.

Visit the White Cathedral of Strys, the Red Church of Hatshepsut, and a few reliefs from the Middle Kingdom period. Walk through the Great Hypostyle Hall and the Festival Hall of Tuthmosis lll!

27 – Uncover the great state of the tombs at the Valley of the Nobles

You’ve seen the Valley of the Kings, Queens, and Artisans, now it’s time to explore the Valley of the Nobles and see where some of Luxor’s most prominent figures were buried.

Located on the West Bank, the Valley of the Nobles has an estimated 400-500 tombs, with most of them belonging to the 6th dynasty of the Graeco-Roman period in Thebes.

Of the many tombs, one of the most famous was the Tomb of Sennefer, who was a mayor of Thebes. His tomb is one of the most well-preserved tombs in the Valley, as you can see the paintings in his tombs, many of which depict his day-to-day life with family.

Explore the Valley of the Nobles in depth with a tour guide, who can direct you to more impressive tombs to discover!

• Valley of the Nobles tours in Luxor

28 – Plan a trip to Ramesseum Temple

Also located on the West Bank of the Nile is the conserved Ramesseum Temple, where you can admire the state of the temple, and in specific the 17-metre statue of a seated Ramses ll.

Constructed to honor Ramses ll, the 3rd ruler of the 19th Dynasty who ruled for 66 years, it’s believed that Ramses was a fan of architecture, and was responsible for completing a few architectural pieces around Ancient Luxor.

The temple was built after his death, as a space where the living could continue to worship him, as well as a sign of power after the recent conquest of Nubia.

A Ramesseum Temple tour includes a few more temple stops and even stops by the Valley of the Nobles. Tours also include hotel pick-up and drop-off, and entry fees.

• Ramesseum Temple tours in Luxor

29 – Plan for a day trip to Edfu

Plan a day trip to Edfu, a historic city on the West Bank, housing numerous other ancient temples including the Ptolemaic Temple of Horus and the Edfu Temple.

The sight of Edfu is a must-see for history buffs, as many archaeologists and historians claim that Edfu contains an ample amount of history and archaeological pieces especially with the grand Ptolemaic temple, that goes back hundreds of years. Not to mention, it’s one of the best-preserved temples in all of Egypt.

Explore the temple’s stunning front courtyard, tall 32 floral columns, and reliefs on the walls showcasing the kings making offerings to the gods.

Nearby Edfu is the Kom Ombo Temple , a fascinating temple dedicated to the crocodile god, Sobek.  To see the temples in their entirety with a knowledgeable guide, book an Edfu tour.

• Edfu tours from Luxor

30 – Catch epic thrills on a Jeep tour

Up for some major fun? Head to the desserts and the dunes for a crazy fun Jeep tour adventure!

Lasting anywhere from 2-5 hours, a Jeep tour will kick up the fun on your travels in Luxor, as you make your way around the golden sand deserts, and make your way around mountains, passing near ancient temples like the Egyptian temple to Isis and the Deir el-Shelwit temple, and even drive alongside the Nile River.

Depending on the tour you opt for, you’ll also get to enjoy a lavish BBQ dinner and enjoy incredible sunset vistas from the desert. You may even get a chance to stick around at night for a starry night under the night sky in the desert for the ultimate end to an epic day.

Jeep tours start at $40 USD.

• jeep tours in Luxor

31 – Light up with excitement at the Sound and Light Show

Visit the historic site of Karnak Temple at night to experience it from a whole different perspective! The Sound and Light Show takes place at the Karnak Temple, and illuminates the ruins of the landmarks and ancient temples in a stunning spectacle of lights and colors!

As you step inside the lit-up temple complex, hear the ancient story of the temple, certain legends of the gods, and other not-so-commonly shared stories on other day tours. You’ll get to sit in a designated area and see the lights do their magic, as you get transported to one of the world’s most significant civilizations.

You can buy tickets for the 75-minute long, Sound and Light show ahead of time, which also includes roundtrip tickets with private hotel transfers.

• Sound and Light Show tickets

32 – Eat your heart out at the best restaurants

Dine in style with views of the Nile River at El-Kababgy Luxor , a wonderful restaurant that prepares traditional Egyptian food and classic dishes, from shawarma to kebabs, lentil dishes, and a few tagine dishes, prepared with fresh ingredients.

Al-Sahaby Lane is another great food option, situated atop the Nefertiti Hotel, with stunning views of the local souks around! Enjoy the decor of the restaurant, decked out in Egyptian-style fabrics and patterns, dressing the comfortable and cushioned seating under a string of lights. Most dishes are traditional Egyptian dishes, with a good variety of vegetarian dishes.

El Tarboush Luxor is a great place to grab a bite of classic Middle Eastern cuisine, from lentil soups, grilled meats, and more food Lebanese, and Egyptian style! The restaurant is highly rated for its efficient service and warm hospitality, too!

33 – Sleep peacefully in an Egyptian palace

Stay a night or two at the phenomenal Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor , and enjoy the hotel’s stunning grounds. Admire the views from your floor-to-ceiling windows and the balcony it leads to.

Comfortably enjoy the classic decor of the hotel, and admire the music of the live musician throughout the hotel. Lastly, enjoy the stunning gardens outside, or take a refreshing dip in the pool to cool off after sightseeing.

Fit for Egyptian royalty, stay the night at Djorff Palace , an Egyptian-style palace hotel with wonderful terraces, on-site restaurants, and close to many of Luxor’s landmarks. From the room’s Egyptian tapestries to the sandstone colors of the wall, and beautiful lanterns and furnishings, this hotel is nothing short of beautiful.

Those who stay at the Djorff Palace will also enjoy free shuttle boats to make it across the Nile.

34 – Experience a Nile cruise

Explore the Nile River for a few more days on a memorable Nile cruise! No matter your travel style, or availability, there are a variety of Nile cruises to choose from!

Enjoy anywhere from a 3-7 day cruise, where you’ll get to embark on a comfortable cruise and enjoy the luxuries of the 5-star boats, while admiring the sights from the Nile, from temples, landmarks, the city, and more.

What’s more is that many of these Nile cruises come with bonus activities to fill your days, from a hot air balloon experience to stopping at the different landmarks and entering them on a guided tour! Each day will have an itinerary that everyone will follow, including meals to be enjoyed on the cruise.

Wondering if this is something you want to do? Read our Nile Cruises (Egypt) Complete Guide to learn more!

• Nile cruises tours from Luxor

See also: Nile Cruises (Egypt) – Complete Guide

How to get to Luxor?

Only a 20-minute ride from Luxor is the city’s main airport, the Luxor International Airport. Since the city doesn’t have much public transportation, the main way that travelers get to their hotels is via an airport transfer .

An airport transfer will conveniently pick you up at the airport, and take you straight to the hotel. No hailing or searching, just pre-booking!

Where to stay in Luxor?

Stay a mere few minutes from the Temple of Habu when you stay at the Malkata House ! If you’re looking for apartment-style accommodation, this is your spot! Offering beautiful garden spaces, a stunning terrace with views of the temple, high-speed wifi, and air conditioning, the Malkata House is ready to welcome you in!

The Steigenberger Nile Palace Luxor – Convention Center is another wonderful hotel option for your stay! Offering grand amenities, proximity to some of Luxor’s best shopping districts, phenomenal food, and uninterrupted views of the Nile River, this hotel should be one to consider!

Enjoy the hospitality and proximity to Luxor’s best landmarks at Pavillon Winter Luxor ! This hotel features 3 in-house restaurants, 2 bars, and amazing views of the Nile River, and is only a few minutes away from the Luxor Temple and the Mummification Museum! Enjoy the hotel’s lavish decor, and sink into the quiet of the hotel without being too far from the action.

• best hotels in Luxor

Visiting Luxor on a budget?

Make sure to take advantage of the free walking tours in Luxor , to get an idea of the city’s history, and main sites, mixed with local tips and tricks to help make your stay in the city as amazing as possible! Pre-book your slot, and simply meet your guide in a central location in the city!

Where to go next?

Explore Luxor in-depth and for longer when you look into booking a multi-day trip !

Multi-day trips are amazing to travel beyond the city limits and experience everything from the temples to a multi-day cruise of the Nile River, and combination tours jam-packed with fun activities for 2-3 days!

Travel south to the city of Aswan , also near the Nile River, most famously known for housing the Philae Temple complex, located on the island of Agilkia. Ride on a beautiful Felucca cruise, and take in the peaceful sites nearby.

You can’t visit Egypt and not stop by Cairo for a bit! Walk around the Cairo Citadel, explore the Pyramids of Giza on a day trip, and appreciate the greenery at Abdeen Palace Museum. Make sure to visit our things to do in Cairo post to add more to your Cairo itinerary!

Move north towards Hurghada, a desert oasis with dozens of fun activities lined up. From snorkeling the most pristine waters in Egypt to admiring the sand art at Sand City Hurghada! Add more ideas to your list by checking our round-up of the best things to do in Hurghada !

If you’re looking for another great coastal city to visit in Egypt, consider a trip to Sharm El Sheikh . Located at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, it’s a snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiast’s paradise, with beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and vibrant marine life. Its luxurious resorts, bustling markets and vibrant nightlife, make Sharm El Sheikh the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

Final thoughts

Luxor’s incredible history, sites, and ruins surely speak for themselves when it comes to all the incredible things to do in Luxor.

From the mystical atmosphere within the Karnak Temple to exploring the tombs of King Tut and the other important Pharaohs and their wives at Valley of the Kings, and Queens, cruising along the historic Nile River – there’s no shortage of activities in Luxor!

Which one will you go for first?

Happy travels!

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Home > Egypt WikiTravel > Luxor Attractions

Luxor Attractions

Hatshepsut Temple: Temple of Deir El-Bahari

Dendera Temple: Discover the wonders of the Temple of Hathor

Colossi of Memnon: A Spectacular Monument of Antiquity

Valley of the Kings: Tomb of the Pharaohs of Egypt

Temple of Abydos: Explore the Historical Temple of Seti I

Luxor Temple: Where History and Mythology Meet

Karnak Temple: A Treasure Trove of Mysteries and Legends

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Is nile cruise a magical trip that you must experience.

A Nile cruise is a magical and unforgettable experience that should be on everyone’s travel bucket list. It’s a journey that takes you back to the ancient world of Egypt, where you’ll see some of the world’s most iconic historical sites up close. From the Valley of the Kings to the Temple of Karnak, you’ll be transported to a world of mystery, intrigue, and wonder. And all while enjoying the comfort and luxury of a five-star hotel on water. Don’t miss out on this incredible adventure. Book your Nile cruise today and experience the magic for yourself.

Where do Nile cruises depart from?

Nile cruises typically depart from two main cities in Egypt: Luxor and Aswan. Luxor is located in southern Egypt and is home to some of the most impressive ancient Egyptian temples and tombs. Aswan, also located in southern Egypt, is known for its scenic beauty and is the gateway to the temples of Abu Simbel. Some Nile cruises also offer round-trip itineraries that depart from and return to Cairo, the capital of Egypt. However, most Nile cruises follow the traditional route between Luxor and Aswan.

What are the stops on the Nile cruise?

The stops on a Nile cruise may vary depending on the length of the cruise and the specific itinerary. However, most Nile cruises follow a similar route, including stops at some of Egypt’s most iconic historical sites. Here are some of the typical stops on a Nile cruise:

• Luxor: The ancient city of Luxor is often the starting point for a Nile cruise. Here, you can explore the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Karnak, and the Temple of Luxor.
• Esna: This small town is known for its well-preserved Temple of Khnum, dedicated to the ram-headed god of the Nile.
• Edfu: Here, you can visit the Temple of Horus, one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt.
• Kom Ombo: This temple is unique in that it is dedicated to two gods: Sobek, the crocodile-headed god, and Horus, the falcon-headed god.
• Aswan: The final stop on most Nile cruises, Aswan is home to the Temple of Philae, the Unfinished Obelisk, and the High Dam. It is also the gateway to the temples of Abu Simbel.

These are just some of the typical stops on a Nile cruise. Depending on the itinerary, you may visit other sites, such as the Nubian village or the Temple of Hatshepsut.

Is Egypt a safe destination to Visit?

Egypt is generally considered a safe destination for tourists to visit. The country relies heavily on tourism, and the government has taken extensive measures to ensure the safety of tourists. There are police checkpoints throughout the country, particularly in tourist areas, and security measures are in place at airports, hotels, and major tourist sites.

As with any travel destination, it’s always wise to exercise caution and take commonsense safety precautions. It is advised to avoid large crowds, especially during demonstrations or protests, and always to remain alert and aware of your surroundings. It is also recommended that you follow the advice of your tour guide or travel operator and check with your embassy or consulate for any travel tips before your trip.

Overall, as long as you take the necessary precautions, Egypt is a safe and welcoming destination that offers a wealth of history, culture, and natural beauty for visitors to explore and enjoy.

What is the best time to visit Egypt?

The best time to visit Egypt is between October and April, during the country’s mild winter. The temperatures are pleasant during the day, ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit (about 18-30 degrees Celsius), and more relaxed at night. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.

Visiting Egypt from May to September can be a good option if you prefer to avoid crowds and endure hotter temperatures. Temperatures during this time can reach up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) or higher, but this is also the low season so you may find better deals on tours and accommodations.

It’s also important to note that Ramadan, the month-long Islamic holiday of fasting and prayer, can affect travel to Egypt. During Ramadan, many businesses and tourist sites have reduced hours or may be closed altogether. The dates of Ramadan change each year based on the Islamic calendar, so it’s essential to check the dates before planning your trip.

In summary, the best time to visit Egypt is during the winter season, between October and April, but if you don’t mind the heat and want to avoid the crowds, visiting during the summer months can also be a good option.

Tipping or Baksheesh in Egypt

Tipping, or baksheesh, is a common practice in Egypt and is considered a way to show appreciation for good service. It’s important to note that while tipping is not mandatory, it is expected in many situations, and it’s a good idea to carry small bills and change for this purpose.

Here are some standard tipping practices in Egypt:

• Tour guides: Tipping your tour guide at the end of your tour is customary. The amount will depend on the length of the tour and the level of service provided, but a good rule of thumb is around 10-20% of the total cost of the tour.
• Hotel staff: Tipping hotel staff, such as bellhops and housekeeping, is familiar. A small tip of 10-20 Egyptian pounds per day is appropriate.
• Drivers: If you hire a driver, it’s customary to tip them at the end of your trip. The amount will depend on the length of the journey and the level of service provided, but a good rule of thumb is around 50-100 Egyptian pounds per day.
• Restaurants: It’s common to leave a tip of around 10-15% of the total bill at restaurants. Some restaurants may include a service charge on the bill, so check before tipping.

In summary, tipping or baksheesh is a common practice in Egypt, and it’s important to have small bills and changes on hand. The amount to tip will depend on the service provided. Still, as a general rule, a tip of 10-20% of the total cost is appropriate for tours and restaurants, while smaller tips of 10-20 Egyptian pounds per day are appropriate for hotel staff and drivers.

What are the best places to visit in Egypt?

Egypt is rich in history and culture, with many fascinating places to visit. Here are some of the top destinations that should be on your list when visiting Egypt:

The Pyramids of Giza: The iconic pyramids are one of the most famous landmarks in Egypt and are a must-visit destination. They are located just outside of Cairo and are the last surviving wonders of the ancient world.

Luxor: Known as the world’s most excellent open-air museum, Luxor is home to some of the most impressive ancient Egyptian monuments, including the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and Luxor Temple.

Cairo: Egypt’s bustling capital city is a vibrant and chaotic metropolis full of life and energy. Highlights include the Egyptian Museum, the Al-Azhar Mosque, and the Khan El Khalili bazaar.

Abu Simbel: This ancient temple complex, located near the Sudanese border, is one of the most impressive sites in Egypt. The temples were built during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II and are known for their enormous statues and intricate carvings.

Aswan: This laid-back city in southern Egypt is known for its stunning natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere. Highlights include the Philae Temple, the Aswan Dam, and the Nubian Museum.

Alexandria: Located on the Mediterranean coast, Alexandria is a historic city once home to one of the ancient world’s most famous libraries. Highlights include the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, the Citadel of Qaitbay, and the Bibliotheca Alexandrina.

Sinai Peninsula: This rugged and mountainous region is home to some of Egypt’s most beautiful natural scenery, including Mount Sinai and the Red Sea coast.

In summary, Egypt has many incredible destinations to explore, from the ancient monuments of Luxor and the Pyramids of Giza to the bustling streets of Cairo and the natural beauty of the Sinai Peninsula.

What to bring with you on a trip to Egypt?

When planning a trip to Egypt, it’s important to pack the right items to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Here are some things to consider bringing with you:

Sunscreen: Egypt is a desert country, and the sun can be intense, so it’s important to pack sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin.

Comfortable walking shoes: Many of Egypt’s top attractions involve a lot of walking, so make sure you bring comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain.

Lightweight clothing: Egypt can be hot, so pack light clothing from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. Packing clothes that cover your shoulders and knees is also a good idea, particularly if you plan to visit religious sites.

Scarf or shawl: Women visiting Egypt may want to bring a scarf or shawl to cover their heads when entering mosques or other religious sites.

Water bottle: Staying hydrated is important in Egypt’s hot climate, so bring a reusable water bottle to refill throughout the day.

Insect repellent: Mosquitoes can be a problem in some regions of Egypt, particularly during the summer, so pack insect repellent to keep them at bay.

Camera: Egypt is a country full of fantastic photo opportunities, so bring a camera to capture all the incredible sights.

Power adapter: Egypt uses European-style power sockets, so if you’re coming from outside Europe, you’ll need to bring a power adapter to charge your electronic devices.

Packaging these essential items will prepare you for a comfortable and enjoyable trip to Egypt.

Advices for women while traveling to Egypt

Traveling as a woman in Egypt can be a rewarding and exciting experience, but it’s important to take certain precautions to ensure your safety and comfort. Here are some tips for women traveling to Egypt:

Dress conservatively: Egypt is a Muslim country, and it’s important to respect local customs and dress conservatively. It’s a good idea to cover your shoulders and knees when in public places, especially when visiting mosques or other religious sites.

Avoid walking alone at night: It’s best to avoid walking alone at night, especially in quiet or poorly-lit areas. Instead, take a taxi or use a ride-hailing app to get around.

Use a guide or tour group: Using a guide or tour group can be a good idea, especially if you’re traveling alone. This can help you navigate local customs and culture, and can provide an extra layer of safety.

Be cautious with alcohol: Drinking alcohol in public is prohibited in Egypt, and it’s important to be cautious with alcohol consumption. Stick to drinking in licensed bars and restaurants, and avoid getting drunk in public.

Be aware of your surroundings: It’s always important to be aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling in a new place. Be cautious of pickpockets, scams, and other potential dangers, and trust your instincts if you feel uncomfortable or unsafe.

Research local customs and culture: Researching local customs and culture can help you better understand the country and avoid inadvertently offending locals. For example, it’s important to remove your shoes when entering a mosque, and to avoid physical contact with people of the opposite sex in public.

By following these tips and being aware of local customs and culture, women can have a safe and enjoyable experience traveling in Egypt.

Learn Arabic words to enjoy your visit to Egypt

Learning a few Arabic words and phrases can enhance your experience when visiting Egypt, as it shows respect for the local culture and can help you communicate with locals. Here are some Arabic words and phrases to know:

• Salaam Alaikum: This is a common Arabic greeting that means “peace be upon you.” Locals will appreciate it if you greet them with this phrase.
• Shukran: This means “thank you.” It’s always polite to show gratitude when someone helps you or does something for you.
• Sabah Al-Khair: This means “good morning.” It’s a polite way to greet someone in the morning.
• Masaa Al-Khair: This means “good evening.” It’s a polite way to greet someone in the evening.
• Laa Shukran: This means “no, thank you.” You can use this phrase when declining an offer or a service.
• Min Fadlak: This means “please.” You can use this word when making a request.
• Afwan: This means “you’re welcome.” You can use this word to respond to someone who has thanked you.
• Aiwa: This means “yes.” It’s a simple way to answer a question in the affirmative.
• Laa: This means “no.” It’s a simple way to answer a question in the negative.
• Ma’a Salama: This means “goodbye” or “go with peace.” It’s a polite way to bid farewell.

By learning these basic Arabic words and phrases, you can show respect for the local culture and communicate more effectively with locals during your visit to Egypt.

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Luxor Tourist Attractions

Date: January 18, 2022 By Amon Ra Tours Categories: Egypt Cities No comments

Luxor Egypt is the most picturesque city in the country. Ancient Egypt is full of stories, legends, and fantasies. Who has never been interested in learning more about the history of the pharaohs, Luxor tourist attractions, and how this ancient civilization lived? Few people know that Cairo is not Egypt’s city with the most ruins, temples, and archaeological sites, but Luxor is!

Thebes: The Ancient Capital of Egypt

Luxor is the main attraction for anyone looking to explore Ancient Egypt because the city was the capital of the Egyptian Empire.

This Pharaonic period is divided into three parts or Empires: Ancient, Middle, and New. In the Ancient Empire, the capital was Memphis, near Cairo. Luxor is the main attraction for anyone looking to explore Ancient Egypt because the city was the capital of the Egyptian Empire.

This Pharaonic period is divided into three parts or Empires: Ancient, Middle, and New. In the Ancient Empire, the capital was Memphis , near Cairo, where the pyramids at Giza were built.

The Middle Kingdom was a period of crisis and instability. At the end of this period, the capital was moved to Thebes, now Luxor, in the country’s south.

The New Empire was Egypt’s most prosperous period when temples were built the most, and the geographical limits of the empire expanded the most.

It is also the time of the most famous pharaohs in history: Tutankhamun, Seth, and Ramses. As the empire’s capital was Thebes in this period, it became the region’s political, economic, and religious center, where the kingdom’s main temples and the pharaohs’ tombs were located.

Furthermore, since Luxor is located in the south of Egypt, a less economically developed and less populated region, it was possible to preserve the archaeological sites better.

Unlike the metropolitan area of Cairo, the country’s wealthiest and most populous part has grown a lot in the last century and encroached on many archaeological sites.

West Bank of Luxor city:

Luxor is divided into two parts: the west and the east side of the Nile River. In ancient Egypt, the east bank was reserved for the living, where the temples and houses of the inhabitants were located.

On the other hand, the west side was reserved for the dead, so this was where the tombs were. The Valley of the Kings, where the pharaohs’ tombs were located, was the most critical location. The incredible tombs of the pharaohs in Luxor. Aside from the Valley of the Kings, Luxor’s most preserved and beautiful monument is the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut.

• Check out our Egypt Vacation Packages to choose what suits you from the best Egypt Tour Packages and you can Tailor your Trip to Egypt

15 Things to do in Luxor Egypt

Luxor has several temples, but the most famous and exciting are two. To see the other attractions, read our What to do in Luxor Egypt, where we talk about the main tourist attractions in Luxor.

1. Starting with sailing on the Nile Cruise

Let’s start with one of the most exciting parts: a sail down the Nile. This four-day cruise up the Nile will take you to some of Egypt’s most impressive landmarks, and one of the starting points is Luxor.

Check out our Nile River Cruises in Egypt

• Luxor and Aswan Nile Cruises
• Luxury Nile River Cruises

2. Discover Karnak Temple

The Temple of Karnak is the biggest in all of Egypt is the best Luxor tourist attractions. It was built to honor Amun-Ra , a combination of the gods Ra and Amun. He was one of the most important gods in ancient Egypt. In ancient Egypt, it was the most important place of worship, and essential pharaohs like Seti I and Ramses II helped build it.

The most popular area is the one that has the Walk of the Sphinxes and the 134 23-meter-high columns of the Amun-Ra room. This area is made up of three separate locations.

After the tower and the walk of the sphinxes, there is the interior patio, which leads to the different rooms of the complex (the temples of Ramses II and Seti I) and is where the massive statue of Pinedyem I is. It is so unique that you can’t stop looking up and admiring the essential things that the Egyptians built.

Inscriptions on its walls and columns describe the battles that the kings of that time fought during their reigns and the gods to whom they made offerings.

I built two obelisks to honor Thutmosis and his daughter Hatshepsut during his reign. This was one of the most important buildings in ancient Egypt, so that you will notice it.

New pieces of this ancient structure, built between 2200 BC and 360 BC, are still being found, and this tells us more about what life was like back then.

• Don’t miss to check out on our Tours Sound and light show at the Temple of Karnak , and Day Tour of the Temples of Luxor and Karnak

3. Visit Luxor Temple

It is the most important and impressive building in the city. The temple was founded in 1884 and was built between 1400 and 1000 B.C. Ramses II built the outside walls, and Amenhotep III built the rooms inside.

The city’s center, Luxor Temple , dedicated to the god Amun-Ra, used to be connected to the nearby Karnak Temple by the Avenue of Sphinxes, a 3-kilometer path with more than 600 sphinxes. However, because of a lot of damage, the Avenue of Sphinxes can now only be seen at the beginning of both temples.

The sculptures of Ramses II sitting down, which are more than 15 meters tall and stand next to the obelisk in front of the Ramses II pylon, are one of the most striking parts of this building.

One of the most important places is the Ramses II peristyle courtyard, which has 74 papyriform columns that show the pharaoh with different gods.

At each end of the processional colonnade of Amenhotep III, there are two statues of Ramses II. This leads to the peristyle courtyard of Amenhotep III, which is surrounded by columns and has entrances to other chambers used to worship gods like Amun and Mut.

4. Explore the Funeral Hatshepsut Temple

The Temple of Hatshepsut is one of Egypt’s most impressive buildings, and it is part of the Deir el Bahari complex on the western side of the Nile River near the Valley of the Kings. From the best luxor tourist attractions Here was built one of the best-preserved and most critical Amun-Ra temples.

The monument to Pharaoh Hatshepsut, who ruled Egypt for almost three thousand years and was one of the most powerful women in the ancient world, makes it easy to imagine how much power and influence the queen had.

Reliefs of pharaohs paying homage to the gods of their time are carved into the tomb of Queen Hatshepsut. The tomb has raised terraces and massive columns. It was built in the same style as the work of Pharaoh Mentuhotep I. Some parts were built into the rock, and some were made outside.

On the first terrace, there are still columns and pillars where ponds used to be. On the second terrace are Osiric sculptures and two rows of pillars showing Hatshepsut’s coronation and other events from her life.

You can also find the Hathor Chapel and the Anubis Chapel on this terrace. Both of these buildings show how the Pharaoh made sacrifices to different gods.

5. Discover the Valley of Kings, one of the Luxor tourist attractions

The Valley of the Kings is the best-known Egyptian cemetery. It has the tombs of several New Kingdom pharaohs, such as Ramses II, Ramses III, Tutankhamun, and Tutmosis III. Since it was easy to steal from the pyramids, where many pharaohs were buried, this structure was built to protect the royal tombs from thieves.

At the base of the mountain, we can see how they continued to respect the pyramidal style of the New Kingdom by building this cemetery on the mountaintop, which ends in a peak. This area is called El-Qurna (the Horn).

Even though the pharaohs’ funeral temples were still in other places, their bodies were kept in these tombs. Howard Carter’s last discovery was the tomb of Tutankhamun, number 62 on the list.

Ramses IX’s (KV6), Merempath’s (KV8), Ramses VI’s (KV9), Ramses III’s (KV11), Ramses I’s (KV16), Seti I’s (KV17), Montu (KV19), her’s Khopeshef’s Thutmosis III’s (KV34), Amenophis II’s (KV35), and Horemheb’s ( (KV57). For a fee of €13, you can visit three of the 63 sites.

There’s no question that Tutankhamun’s tomb is the most popular, but all we’ll find there is his mummy and the tomb itself. It would be best if you put it from the Luxor tourist attractions.

6. Exploring the Valley of Queens

The Valley of the Queens is on the western bank of the Nile in Luxor, about 25 kilometers from the train station—one of the necropolises that UNESCO says is part of the Theban Necropolis, a World Heritage Site.

The Valley of the Queens is also called Biban al Harim and Ta Set Neferu, meaning “seat of beauty.” All three names can be used to talk about the same place. Between 1903 and 1906, an Italian team found eight graves, some of which were thought to be for royal babies.

In these tombs is a small room called an antechamber, a tall hallway with rooms on both sides, and a final chamber for burial.

Most people go to the tomb of Ramses II’s favorite wife, Nefertari, who ruled Egypt during the 20th dynasty. Because of this, I built a temple for her in Abu Simbel and a tomb for her that is widely considered to be the best of its kind in the Valley of the Queens. The tomb has intricate hieroglyphs from the Book of the Dead and pictures of the Queen with different Egyptian gods. In 1904, Italian explorer Ernesto Schiaparelli got into the tomb. Unfortunately, other thieves had already broken in, so the only valuable things he could steal were the paintings on the walls, which were in danger because of the high humidity and the salt crystals that filtered the limestone of its borders. The building was fixed and reopened to the public, which is good news.

7. Visiting the Valley of Nobles

The Valley of Nobels on the West Bank of Luxor, from the top Luxor attractions several tombs were built for nobles or local leaders who wanted to be buried with as much pomp and ceremony as the kings, queens, and princes. The Tombs of the Nobles are a group of underground tombs near the Ramesseum.

There are many, but people can reach only a few. It’s not unusual to see ones with bright decorations on them. One of the most exciting things about this site is that, unlike the iconographic programs of the pharaohs and queens, it gives much more specific information about how ancient Egyptians lived their everyday lives.

• Don’t pass up to check out the Day Tour To Valley of the Nobles Medinet Habu and Deir el-Medina

8. Explore Colossi of Memnon

The Colossi of Memnon , a monument to the Egyptian pharaoh Amenhotep III, will be the last thing you see when you go on a great trip to Luxor. The massive sculptures are thought to be more than 3,000 years old. They were made by Pharaoh Amenophis III, who also oversaw the building of his funeral temple, which was recently destroyed by an earthquake.

Each of the Colossi of Memnon is 14 meters tall and sits on a pedestal that is 4 meters tall. Together, they are 18 meters tall and weigh 1,300 tons. Egypt’s quarries, where the granite for each colossus came from, are about 600 kilometers from Luxor.

9. Visit Dendera Temple

It was built during the reigns of Ptolemy XII and Cleopatra II of the Ptolemaic dynasty, and then the Romans added to it.

It is part of a larger complex covering over 40,000 square meters. Chapels and small sanctuaries have stood here since the beginning of Egyptian civilization. But the oldest temple we can still recognize was built during the time of Pharaoh Nectanebo I, who ruled from 381 to 364 B.C.

The Temple of Dendera has retained its original shape since Hellenism. This song is a tribute to Hathor, the Egyptian goddess of birth, marriage, and art (hence the title). Since her name means “The Temple of Horus” or “The home of Horus,” she is often thought to be Horus’s mother or, in some cases, his wife.

It is different from other Egyptian tombs because of its reliefs, considered some of the best examples of Egyptian decorative art from the time of Ptolemy. A unique thing about this temple is that people can climb to the top of the building and look out over the whole complex.

When people walk into the temple, they find themselves in a large room called a hypostyle, and this room is connected to a smaller room where the temple’s administrative offices are located. The group enters the main sanctuary, surrounded by a passageway leading to smaller chapels for different gods.

The building’s basement has a small shrine to Hathor and Isis. From there, you can see the beautiful paintings of the heavens covering the seven ceiling sections. The first one shows Nut, the sky goddess, bending over the world and covering it with a cloak of stars.

Still, pictures of the solar ship and the star god can be seen. The Zodiac constellations are shown on a concept that hangs from the ceiling next to the solar boat. The first zodiac is kept at the Louvre in Paris. Even though they are slightly different, all eleven of the familiar symbols are here: a ram, a bull, a twin of heaven, a crab, a lion, a Virgo, a scorpion, an archer, a goat, a set of water jugs, and a pair of fish with flashing tails.

•  Don’t pass the chance to check out Excursion to the Temples of Abydos and Dendera

10. Investigate Abydos Temple

Pharaoh Seti I started something that King Ramses II finished. The building’s design was based on the worship of the first god-kings, but Osiris became the center of Egyptian religion and culture.

Behind the temple was a cemetery, and at first, the Abydos temple was like a chapel for the pharaohs buried there. It is part of a larger cemetery called the Necropolis, which has the tombs of pharaohs from the early dynasty and even before that.

The temple as a whole is made up of all of these parts:

• The first open cut.
• The second open cut.
• The first corridor of hiccup style.
• The second corridor of hiccup style.
• Seven sanctuaries.
• Corridor of Osiris.
• The small corridor of Osiris.
• South wing of the temple.

Nearby is also a smaller building called Osireion. It is thought to have been linked to the main temple and communicated with the large hypogeum, where Osiris rituals were performed.

11. Explore Madinet Habu

It was where Ramses III and his father, Ramses II, and other Egyptian gods were buried.

Most visitors to Madinet Habu best things to do in Luxor Egypt (20th dynasty, 1184-1153 BC) visit the Temple of Ramses III. It is one of the best-preserved temples from the New Kingdom period.

During the 18th dynasty, Hatchepsut and Tuthmose III built a temple to Amun on “Djeme Mound.” In the 9th century, a Coptic temple was built on the second courtyard of the ancient temple, and this continued the history of people living in the area.

The temple was built with the usual tools and methods of the time. It had two pylons, two courtyards, and three hypostyle rooms. It was connected to the Nile by a jetty and canal, and a boat carrying the god was used for religious processions.

Also, The temple complex of Ramses III has a strange entrance because it was based on the citadels that the army went through when it conquered Syria. The tower’s shape is like a migdol, a strong doorway. The mud wall around the compound is 25 feet thick and 60 feet high, making it look like a fortress.

The extraordinary bas-reliefs covering the temple’s outside walls and the colors that look like they were just put on yesterday make it known as one of the most beautiful places for funerals.

The temple is on a plot of about 210 meters long and 300 meters wide. The walls of the Ramses III Temple are covered with art on more than 7,000 square meters.

12. Reveal the Temple of Ramssesum

Visiting some of Luxor’s less well-known temples is an excellent alternative. Sites that are less popular with tourists because they are not well maintained or receive less attention than nearby attractions

The temple that Ramses II built is called the Ramesseum in the Theban Necropolis. When this pharaoh died, he left behind a lot of beautiful buildings. Even though it’s not the most famous or essential temple, it’s still a beautiful place to visit. You’ll do almost all this by yourself, making it even more appealing. Even though it’s not an “essential” stop for tourists, you must go there if you’re in Luxor.

13. Try exploring the Luxor museum

The Luxor Museum on the Nile is the second most visited museum in Egypt after the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. It has an extensive collection of artifacts from temples and the Theban necropolis.

Some of the best parts of the collection on display are things from Tutankhamun’s tomb, a statue of Tutmosis III, and a reconstructed mural from the Temple of Karnak.

• Check out our Tour To The Museum of Luxor & Mummification Museum

14. Observe the Mummification Museum

Even though the title says otherwise, the most crucial mummy is that of Masaharti, the high priest of Amun-Ra during the XXI dynasty. The focus is on something other than the most gruesome parts of this after-death work, which is necessary to preserve the corpses of the dead and make them eligible for eternal life in the afterlife. Part of the reason is that it has hair and a beard and is still in such good shape.

There are also some other strange things in the Mummification museum . There are mummies of cats and baboons, for example. Or the tools used to remove the brain and other organs from the dead body. Even though you could see everything in this museum in an hour, it is still one of the most exciting places to go in Luxor because of this.

15. Try Hot Air Balloon

The top thing to do in Luxor Egypt we want to do in Luxor is take a balloon ride. They leave every day before dawn.

From what we’ve seen, just taking in the vastness of the surrounding countryside is a beautiful and unique thing to do.

• Don’t miss to check out Balloon Ride Over Luxor at sunrise .

What is the best time to visit Luxor?

Another problem in southern Egypt is the heat! In the country’s north, Cairo has a mild climate and even gets cold at some parts of the year.

However, the south of the country is hot all year round. In summer, temperatures go above 33°C and can reach 45°C. Because of this, summer is the low season in Luxor, as no one can walk around in the sun at this time of year.

Even in the fall and spring, the heat was intense when I traveled. So visiting open places at the beginning or end of the day is advisable. And of course, wear a lot of sunblock and a hat or cap.

Winter is the high season, when the temperature is more pleasant, around 18°C. The city is more crowded during this period, and hotels are more expensive. However, as Egypt is a cheap country, this difference in accommodation values from summer to winter has little impact on the final cost of a trip to Egypt.

Dehydration and heatstroke: Luxor has many outdoor tourist attractions with little shade. Therefore, it is necessary not to get too much sun and get sick.

• Don’t miss to check out our article about the best time to visit Egypt

Luxor Attractions

Luxor is one of the stops you should include in your Egypt itinerary because it is one of the most exciting places in the country. It has many sites, temples, tombs, and museums where you can expand your knowledge about Ancient Egypt. It is one of the starting points of the Nile cruise, and many things to do in Luxor are included in the cruise activities. Check and Book with the best Egypt Day Tours .

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Ultimate Guide to Things to See & Do in Luxor With Kids

Located in central Egypt, Luxor is home to the second most visited tourist site in the country – the magnificent Karnak Temple. Luxor is where King Tutankhamun’s tomb was first discovered in 1922, setting the world ablaze with ancient Egyptian lore – and this was before social media!

Why Visit Luxor With Kids

Luxor is a place where the imagination is stretched every day as you and your kids explore the vibrantly decorated temples – many still colourful to this day – and colossal columns so ginormous in scale that they reduce you to ant-sized proportions.

Once known as the ancient city of Thebes, Luxor was the great capital of Upper Egypt during the New Kingdom. Must-see attractions in Luxor include the Temple of Luxor, the Karnak Temple Complex, the Temple of Hatshepsut, the Valley of the Kings, and the Valley of the Queens.

The city of Luxor with all its monuments was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979 and to this day, more archaeological discoveries continue to be unearthed. The Nile River divides the city into the East Bank and the West Bank with tourist attractions on both sides.

With all these valleys filled with ancient architectural wonders, you can see why Luxor is often referred to as the “world’s largest open-air museum”, making Luxor a wonderful place to visit with kids.

Children will revel in wandering in and out of intricately decorated columns, exploring ancient tombs, and seeing a multitude of mummies.

Best Time To Visit Luxor With Kids

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The best times to visit Luxor with kids are from November to April.

However, keep in mind that the winter season (December to February) can get very busy as it’s the most pleasant time to travel, weather-wise. Hotel prices will also be at their highest during this time. Winter temperatures average 22°C (71.6°F) during the day and 5°C (41°F) at night.

The shoulder seasons from March to April and from October to November will have smaller crowds and more affordable hotel rates.

It can still get hot during the day, so it’s a good idea to plan outdoor activities for the early mornings or late afternoons.

Summers are unbearably hot and humid and with almost all of Luxor’s sites being outdoors, it would be extremely uncomfortable to visit from May to September. The average high in the summer is 40°C (104°F).

Luxor is located in the very centre of the country and is considered part of Upper Egypt.

From Cairo, you can get to Luxor via the following:

• Plane – the flight time is about 1 hour and costs around US$140 one way.
• Boat – you can now cruise Cairo to Luxor (and even continue to Aswan !). The Cairo to Luxor Nile cruise takes 12 days but includes sightseeing while onboard, starts at around US$3500). There is only one sailing each month and none in the summer.
• Car – it will take 11-12 hours to go by road and costs will vary.
• Train – this journey will take about 10 hours and costs around US$5-10 one way.
• Overnight Sleeper Train – takes about 10 hours and costs around US$84-$126 one way.
• Bus – takes about 11-12 hours and costs around US$10-20 one way.

From Hurghada, you can get to Luxor via the following:

• Private Car with driver – this will take around 4 hours and costs around US$150-200.
• Taxi – this also takes about 4 hours and costs around US$50 one way.
• Bus – takes 4 hours and costs around US$10-15 one way.

You can get around Luxor with kids using a hired car with guide, taxi, bike and even horse-drawn carriages.

On the East Bank, you can even walk to all of the sites now that the Avenue of the Sphinxes has been restored.

Guide And Driver

We recommend getting around by private driver and guide for a hassle-free and convenient experience.

All of your transportation is taken care of and you get to tour the archaeological sites and museums with a knowledgeable Egyptologist. You’ll also avoid uncomfortable encounters with aggressive street vendors.

Travelling by taxi is convenient but oftentimes, drivers will try to overcharge tourists as there are no standard meter rates. Be sure to agree on a price before entering the vehicle.

Most rides will cost between 10 and 150 EGP (about US$0.50 to US$10) depending on your negotiation skills.

You can also negotiate hiring a taxi for a day which is especially useful if you are visiting the West Bank as the sites are very spread out. Ask for your driver’s Whatsapp number and you can text him when you’re ready to go to another site.

Note that Uber, Lyft and Careem do not operate in Luxor.

With older kids, bicycles are another convenient way to get around the city.

Many Luxor hotels will rent bicycles for a fee, or you can hire a bike at any of the bike shops on the East and West Banks. Make sure you ask if the price is per hour or per day, and also be sure to ask for a bike lock, and check tire pressure and brakes.

Calèche: Horse-Drawn Carriages

These horse-drawn carriages – which are also called hantours – are known for quoting high prices and some handlers treat their horses poorly. However, they can offer a nice way to see the city.

You’ll of course want to bargain for a fair price; expect to pay around 5 EGP (about US$0.50) for trips that are less than a mile and 20 to 100 EGP (US$1 to US$6) per hour for longer rides.

The Nile River divides Luxor into two parts: the East Bank and the West Bank.

The East Bank is the location of the main city and a few tourist sites. Luxor’s downtown area is filled with modern buildings and amenities.

The West Bank is where the ancient Egyptians built their tombs and temples to honour the dead.

Note that many sites charge an additional fee for cameras and video (but phone photography is usually free).

Luxor has five main attractions on the East Bank and they can all be visited in a day. Karnak Temple is certainly not to be missed.

It is possible to walk to all the sites on the East Bank although smaller children will need encouragement or be carried.

Luxor Temple, Luxor Museum and the Mummification Museum are all located within a few minutes walk of each other.

And Karnak Temple is now linked to Luxor Temple by a 2.7 km Avenue of Sphinxes. If you don’t stop for photos or read the many descriptions, it would take about 45 minutes to walk The Avenue.

Karnak Temple

Karnak Temple is the second most visited attraction in Egypt, after the Pyramids of Giza, and arguably the largest religious complex in the world (some say that Angkor Wat holds this title).

Without a doubt, this is one of the best things to do in Luxor with kids and should not be missed. Children will have lots of space to roam and will be in awe of all the massive monuments.

Construction of Karnak Temple began in the Egyptian Middle Kingdom and continued right through to the New Kingdom, spanning a period of 2000 years. The complex was expanded and renovated by nearly every Pharaoh ruling in Thebes. That’s around 30 Pharaohs contributing to its construction and trying to outdo each other!

Karnak was abandoned around 356 AD when Constantius II ordered the closing of all pagan temples within the Roman Empire. A few of Karnak’s temples were converted to Christian churches, but much of the site was left for ruin.

As the main attraction in Luxor, and second most visited in Egypt, it can get very busy so we recommend arriving early (it opens at 6 AM) or visiting later in the day. This way you can avoid most of the tour groups that arrive on day trips. And just like the Pyramids of Giza, there is an evening sound and light show that the kids might enjoy.

There are lots of “officials” around the complex. If you are not part of a large tour group, you can expect to be approached by them offering to take your photo with an expectation of a tip.

Open 6 AM to 5:30 PM. You can easily spend two to three hours here.

The Avenue of the Sphinxes

The Avenue of the Sphinxes is a 2.7 km (1.7 mile) long avenue that connects Karnak Temple to Luxor Temple. It was reopened to the public in November 2021 after 70 years of restoration work.

The avenue is believed to have been flanked by over 1300 sphinxes and ram-headed statues. Sphinxes are a symbol of Amun, the Egyptian god of air.

It’s an impressive walk to see the nearly 600 restored sphinxes and ram heads. If you don’t stop to take pictures, it will take about 45 minutes to cover the 2.7 km.

Of course, with children, it will always take longer. Be sure to bring snacks and little bribes to encourage the kids along, it’s truly worth it in the cooler winter months.

Luxor Temple

Luxor Temple was built around 1400 BC. Unlike other temples in Luxor which are dedicated to a god or a deified pharaoh, Luxor Temple was believed to be where many of the pharaohs were crowned.

During the Christian era, the temple underwent a transformation into a church, while in the Islamic period, the Mosque of Abu el-Haggag, dedicated to a revered holy man, was built inside the complex grounds.

Luxor Temple is one of the most popular places to visit (or re-visit!) at night when the area is beautifully lit up.

Open 6 AM to 9 PM. Plan to spend about one hour here.

Luxor Museum

Luxor Museum is considered one of Egypt’s best museums to visit. It’s not too big nor too overwhelming, and expertly tells the story of ancient Thebes. It also has excellent bilingual information in Arabic and English.

Not to be missed are the two royal mummies of Ahmose I and what is believed to be Ramses I. Also on display are some artefacts from the tomb of King Tutankhamun.

Open 9 AM to 2 PM and then 5 PM to 10 PM. Expect to spend about an hour here.

Mummification Museum

This small museum explains the processes behind the ancient Egyptian practice of mummification in great detail and can get quite graphic.

The exhibits include actual mummies of humans and animals. Older kids might enjoy the tools that they used during the process including a spade used to dig out the brains.

You can see everything in the museum in about 30 minutes.

Open 9 AM to 1 PM and then 5 PM to 8 PM. Ticket window closes one hour before closing time.

Visit the museum website here for more details and updated opening times .

The West Bank is home to some of the most impressive sites and attractions in Luxor. It truly is a treasure trove of tombs, temples and monuments.

Not to be missed are the Valley of the Kings, the Valley of the Queens and the Temple of Hatshepsut.

Valley Of The Kings

A visit to the Valley of the Kings is one of the best places to visit in Luxor if not all of Egypt. This is where the modern myth of Egypt began with Howard Carter’s discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922.

The Valley of the Kings was the royal burial ground for pharaohs from the 18th, 19th, and 20th dynasties (the New Kingdom of Egypt). Construction began around 1539 BC and continued for another 500 years. The most famous pharaohs buried here are Tutankhamun, Ramses II, Seti I, and Tuthmosis III.

To date, over 60 tombs have been discovered, but your ticket only allows you to visit 3 as they rotate which tombs are opened.

To see the more famous tombs of Tutankhamun (tomb KV2), Ramses V & VI (tomb KV9), or Seti I (tomb KV 17), you will need to buy separate tickets. The royal tombs of these pharaohs are so intricately and vibrantly decorated that they are just breathtaking. Most have withstood the test of time and are still very well-preserved.

For kids, descending into the depths of the tombs can be an exciting adventure and they will love the colourful hieroglyphics.

This is a very popular place to visit so if you want to avoid the crowds, we recommend heading here first thing in the morning or after 2 PM when the tour busses start to leave.

Open 6 AM until 5 PM. Expect to spend a minimum of two hours here.

Valley of the Queens

The Valley of the Queens is the counterpart of the Valley of the Kings, where the wives of the pharaohs were buried.

There are over 90 tombs on the site but the most spectacular one, that of Queen Nefertari, wife of Ramses II, is not included in your entry ticket and must be purchased separately.

The tomb of Queen Nefertari was discovered in 1904 and is probably the best-preserved and most vibrantly decorated of any Egyptian tomb. The walls and ceilings are covered with intricate and highly detailed scenes to celebrate Nefertari’s legendary beauty.

Open 6 AM until 5 PM. Ticket holders are only allowed 10 minutes inside Queen Nefertari’s tomb.

Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut

At the cliffs of Deir el-Bahari, you can pay homage to Queen Hatshepsut who was the only female pharaoh in the history of Ancient Egypt.

She came to power during the New Kingdom after the death of her father, Tuthmose I, and her half-brother and husband, Tuthmose II. She ruled for about 20 years during the 15 century BC.

This temple has a much different appearance than other temples in Egypt and the exterior facade is more reminiscent of Greek or Roman architecture.

The temple complex is laid out on three grand terraces rising from the plain and the terraces are linked by ramps. Along the west side of each terrace is a raised colonnade.

Inside, the complex is richly adorned with statues, reliefs, and inscriptions.

Open 6 AM until 5 PM. Expect to spend one to two hours here.

The Ramesseum (Mortuary Temple of Ramses II)

The Ramesseum is the memorial temple of Pharaoh Ramses II (also known as Ramses the Great). It was built in a similar structure to other temples of its time but is unique in that the rectangular floor plan was altered to incorporate an older, smaller temple – that of Ramses II’s mother.

An enormous statue of Ramses II once stood here, at the height of 17.5 metres (57 feet). It is now lying on the ground, broken into several large pieces.

Many come to see this fallen statue which inspired the 19th-century poet, Percy Bysshe Shelley, to write the famous poem, ‘Ozymandias’.

Open 6 AM until 5 PM.

Mortuary Temple of Ramses III at Medinat Habu

The Mortuary Temple of Ramses III is often overlooked so there are fewer crowds. But it is one of Egypt’s most impressively decorated temples. This temple complex was modelled after the Ramesseum and is much better preserved.

Ramses III was the second pharaoh of the 20th dynasty, and also the last great pharaoh of the New Kingdom.

The temple is unique for having a Syrian-inspired gate and some of the best-preserved reliefs ever found such as those showing the defeat of the Sea People during the reign of Ramses III.

Open 6 AM until 5 PM. You can easily spend an hour here.

Deir el-Medina (Valley of the Artisans)

The artisans who worked on the tombs in the Valley of the Kings lived here, in an ancient village called Deir el-Medina. Tombs were built here for some of the most prominent artisans – the talented craftsmen who carved and decorated the magnificent tombs.

This site is an often overlooked attraction in Luxor – most favour the larger more impressive tombs of the pharaohs – but it’s worth a visit if you want to see wall paintings depicting everyday Egyptian life.

Similar to the Valley of the Queens, these tombs are much smaller and less ornate than those in the Valley of the Kings.

Tombs of the Nobles

At this site, you will see countless holes in the ground, on the hillside, seemingly everywhere.

These are the Tombs of the Nobles – the tombs of people with influence but who were not royal. More than 400 tombs have been found, and more are still being discovered and unearthed.

If you’re short of time, head straight to see the Tomb of Sennofer and the Tomb of Rekhmire. Sennofer was an overseer during the reign of Amenhotep II and Rekhmire was the pharaoh’s vizier.

Both have incredibly detailed paintings depicting scenes from the men’s daily lives of work and of family life.

Colossi of Memnon (Temple of Amenophis III)

These massive twin statues of Amenhotep III have been greeting visitors to the West Bank for millennia since 1350 BC.

The North Colossus is the famous “musical statue,” which attracted many visitors here during the Roman Imperial period.

The statue once emitted a musical note at sunrise and so gave rise to the myth that Memnon was greeting his mother, Eos. The sound ceased to be heard after the statue was restored.

If travel fatigue sets in, you can make a quick drive-by photo stop after visiting the Valley of the Kings.

Replica of Tutankhamun’s Tomb and Howard Carter’s House

Howard Carter is the British archaeologist who discovered the tomb of Tutankhamun in November of 1922. This modest mud-brick house is where Carter lived during the long search for Tutankhamun’s tomb.

All of Howard Carter’s furnishings have been left on display including his camera, personal items, and photographs.

In the garden here, you can also visit an exact replica of the Tomb of Tutankhamun from the Valley of the Kings. So exact in detail that they even replicated the dust from the tomb.

Open 9 AM to 5 PM.

Sunset Felucca trip

If you’ve had your fill of temples and tombs for the day, there is no better way to relax in Luxor than to cruise the Nile on a felucca. Feluccas are traditional wooden sailboats dating back to ancient Egyptian times.

Taking a sunset felucca trip along the Nile is a very popular thing to do when visiting Luxor with kids.

You’ll have no problems chartering a felucca. There are boat captains looking for customers all along the Nile-side Corniche Road in downtown Luxor. This is Egypt, so be ready to negotiate.

Boat rides are normally charged by the hour and expect to spend around two to three hours on a sunset sail.

Hot Air Balloon Ride

A hot air balloon ride is yet another immensely popular activity in Luxor to do with kids but do note that you’ll have to get up very early. However, the trip is so magical that it’s worth it.

The hot air balloon rides take off just after sunrise and float over the West Bank, giving you a birds-eye view of Luxor’s temples and tomb sites.

The flight time is around 45 minutes but do expect the entire tour experience to take around three hours from hotel pick-up and drop-off.

There are a variety of balloon tour operators in town and make sure to pick one that is highly rated. The tours generally use large baskets that carry around 24 passengers plus the pilot. They don’t take kids under 6.

You can expect to pay around US$50 per person.

To see and do all the attractions listed here, we recommend a minimum of three days. Especially if you want to do a hot air balloon ride and a felucca cruise.

However, if you have less time, you can still visit some of the highlights.

If you have only one day in Luxor, start your morning on the West Bank.

Begin with the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, Medinat Habu (Temple of Ramses III), and a drive-by photo of the Colossi of Memnon.

If you are doing well on time and your kids are still standing, consider visiting the spectacular tomb of Nefertari in the Valley of the Queens. Many believe it’s worth the ticket price of 1500 EGP (US$80). You are only allowed a maximum of 10 minutes inside Nefertari’s tomb.

Then in the afternoon, head to the East Bank and visit Karnak Temple and after, take a few pictures on the Avenue of the Sphinxes. If you still have time, visit Luxor Temple.

If you have two days in Luxor, we recommend breaking up the itinerary above and spending one day on the East Bank and the next day on the West Bank.

If you have three days (or more!) in Luxor, you can visit everything on this list.

Spend one day on the East Bank and then two full days on the West Bank.

If you plan on visiting all the sites on this list, then look into getting the Luxor Pass to save yourself time and money.

The Luxor Pass is a single ticket that includes all of the archaeological sites on the West Bank and the East Bank of Luxor. It allows visitors multiple entries to sites and museums and is valid for five days.

There are two versions of this pass:

• The standard Luxor Pass includes all of the sites on the East and West Banks, EXCEPT FOR the tombs of Seti I and Nefertari. This standard pass costs US$100 for adults and US$50 for students under 30 years with a valid student ID card.
• The premium Luxor Pass includes all of the archaeological sites on the East and West Banks, INCLUDING the tombs of Seti I and Nefertari. This premium pass costs US$200 for adults and US$100 for students under 30 years with a valid student ID card.

You will need two passport photos and two photocopies of your main passport page. And you can only pay CASH in US dollars or Euros that are in excellent condition.

You can purchase the Luxor pass at the ticket offices at Karnak Temple and the Valley of the Kings. They are not available for pre-purchase online.

The East Bank has more modern hotel options but there are some lovely and friendly family-run hotels on the West Bank.

We recommend staying on the West Bank if you plan on doing many of the sights there. This way you can easily reach the tombs and temples bright and early.

Be sure to look for a hotel with a pool so you can cool off and relax after a long day of sightseeing.

East Bank Hotels:

• Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa
• Jolie Ville Hotel & Spa – Kings Island
• Sofitel Winter Palace
• Steigenberger Nile Palace Luxor – Convention Center

West Bank Hotels:

• Djorff Palace
• El Gezira Garden Hotel
• El Mesala Hotel
• Villa Kaslan Apartments

Cruise Ships

You can also stay on a cruise ship, essentially a floating hotel, and book a multi-day Nile cruise.

There are many cruise operators that do the route between Luxor and Aswan , you can also cruise between Cairo and Luxor with the option of continuing on to Aswan.

All tours and excursions are normally included in your cruise package but always double-check.

More on Visiting Egypt with Kids

We have a great selection of articles to help you plan your dream trip to Egypt with your family.

We’d recommend starting with our guide “ Planning a Family Trip to Egypt “, then for diving into more of the detail, things to do, and how to plan your days we also recommend you check out:

• The ideal 7-day itinerary for Egypt with kids
• Is it “safe” to travel to Egypt with kids?
• Top attractions for kids in Cairo (beyond just the pyramids!)
• Where to stay in Giza for the best Pyramid views
• A day trip to Alexandria from Cairo
• Exploring Aswan and Abu Simbel Upper Egypt with Kids
• Red Sea resort towns to try for a relaxing Egyptian vacation
• Baksheesh! Dealing with the tipping culture in Egypt
• An Egypt family packing list for all seasons

Recommended Reading

We’d also highly recommend for family a trip to Egypt to prepare yourself with a few Egypt fact books before you go (and keep one in your day bag if you can!).

The guides and Egyptologists you’ll encounter on your trip do a superb job bringing history to life – but the facts and timelines can get a little overwhelming (for the adults, let alone the kids!)

Have you explored Luxor with kids? Are there any other attractions you’d recommend as family-friendly you’d add to this Luxor family itinerary? Join the conversation over at our Facebook group “ Family Travel Middle East “.

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The Family Travel in the Middle East team of travel writers are all parents based in the Middle East, sharing first hand experiences and reviews from across the region to help you plan your next family adventure.

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I really like your blog! I visited Luxor a year ago and it has become one of my favorite places in Egypt. I especially liked the Habu temple, so breathtaking.

• Luxor Tourist Attractions
• Egypt Tourist Attractions

Witness the Best Attractions in Luxor

Knock the doors of the past and open the gates to all that is great & unique by heading to Luxor tourist attractions that were built in the same location of the ancient capital “ Thebes ” and of course this was the starting point of gaining its fame. Here are the best places in Luxor to visit.

Temple of Amun

• by Trips In Egypt Team
• Mar 18, 2023

Temple of Esna

• Mar 2, 2023

Tomb of Ramses IV

• Feb 23, 2023

Karnak Cachette

• Jan 21, 2023

Colossi Of Memnon

• Apr 23, 2019

Luxor Museum

• Jan 8, 2019

Valley of The Queens

• Jan 5, 2019

Valley of The Nobles

• Jan 3, 2019

Thebes City

• Jan 1, 2019

Dendera Temples Complex

• Nov 18, 2018

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What Is Luxor Known For?

Luxor city was built in the spot of the ancient capital of Egypt; Thebes and it is known for the name " A City of Thousand Gates " as it contains the biggest number of attractions in the world " One-third of the World Monuments ".

Is Luxor Egypt Safe To Visit?

Yes, Luxor city is a very safe city to visit while being in Egypt and while being there, you will enjoy it a lot while touring its incredible sightseeing and monuments.rnrn

What Are The Must-be-visited Places In Luxor?

On the east bank of Luxor, you need to visit Karnak & Luxor Temples and on the west bank, you can enjoy a remarkable tour to Valley of the Kings, Valley of the Queens, Colossi of Memnon, and Hatshepsut Temple.rnrn

What Are The Best Activities In Luxor?

Having a hot-air balloon while being on the west bank of Luxor is one of the most interesting activities to enjoy while being in Luxor city and you can also have a terrific Nile Cruise Tour to explore more fascinating sightseeing.rn

What Should I Wear While Being in Egypt?

You should wear whatever you want. It is advised to wear something light from cotton or linen, comfortable and put on sunblock during your time in Egypt in the summer and wear comfortable footwear like a closed-toe shoe to sustain the sandy terrain.

What to Pack for Your Egypt Tour?

You should bring a brimmed hat and sunglasses if you not used to the Egyptian sun &pack everything you could ever need and put in a small bag so you could move easily between your destinations.

Are All Nile Cruises Available at Any Time?

Yes, it is available all years. as the Nile from Aswan to Luxor takes three to four days of sailing on Monday, Wednesday and Friday for the total cost of 600$ and the Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan take four to five days in Saturday, Monday and Thursday for the coast of 650$.

Why book Trips in Egypt?

We have experience in vacation planning for more than 10 years & our staff consists of the most professional operators, guides and drivers who dedicate all of their time & effort create the perfect vacation. All of our tours are customized by Travel, Financial & Time advisors to fit your every possible need during your time in egypt. we always keep in mind that your safety & comfort are our main priority until you return home.

Is it safe to travel to Egypt?

Yes, it is absolutely safe to travel to egypt, You will feel secure in Egypt as the current atmosphere of the country is very peaceful after the government took powerful measures like restructuring the entire tourist police to include all the important and tourist attractions in Egypt and construct an entire environment dedicated for ensuring the lives of all tourists.

What are Egypt's Visa Requirements?

They are very simples, If you want to apply for a Visa On Arrival that lasts for 30 days then you should be one of the eligible countries(check the link), have a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining and pay 25$ USD entry fee in cash. As for the E-Visa for 30 days, you should have a valid passport for at least 8 months, complete the online application, pay the e-visa fee then print the e-visa to later be presented to the airport border guard. You could be one of the countries eligible for a free visa for 90 days.

What is the Weather is Like?

The temperature of Egypt ranges from 37c to 14 c, Summer in Egypt is somehow hot and winter is cool and mild but sometimes it becomes cold at night. The average of low temperatures vary from 9.5 ¡ÆC in the wintertime to 23 ¡ÆC in the summertime and average high temperatures vary from 17 ¡ÆC in the wintertime to 32 ¡ÆC in the summertime while the temperature is moderate all along the coasts.

What is the Best Time of Visit Egypt?

It is known the best time to travel to Egypt is in the winter from September to April as the climate becomes a bit tropical, a warm atmosphere with a winter breeze. You will also be notified a week before your trip if the weather is unsafe or if any changes have been made.

Should I Give Tips in Egypt?

It is totally up to you, but if you choose to you can tip the servers at your restaurant 5-10% by handing it to them directly and 5 Egyptian Pounds as a general tip of anyone.

Can I Enter the Pyramids?

Yes, you can enter the pyramids for the small fee of 20$.

How to Enjoy Egypt During Ramadan?

Ramadan is a special time of year for Muslims that should be celebrated by non-Muslims and feel the essence of the Islamic culture. You can fast with the Muslim or just observe but you are always welcome to join the celebrations and festivals.

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Egypt Bucket List: Your Expert Guide to Cairo & The Nile

Table of contents, why egypt should be on your bucket list, egypt bucket list #1-journey to cairo, egypt, egypt bucket list #2-exploring the nile river cruise, best time to visit egypt, planning your trip: visa requirements and travel costs , unique egyptian adventures to experience, is egypt safe to visit , what are the best ways to get around egypt, do you need to book tours in advance, or can you explore on your own, what should you wear when visiting ancient sites and mosques in egypt , are there any health concerns or vaccinations required for traveling to egypt, do you need a visa to visit egypt, your egypt bucket list adventure awaits.

Your Egypt bucket list adventure starts here! Egypt , a land steeped in ancient history and rich culture, is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list . From the iconic monuments of Cairo to the winding Nile River, this captivating country offers a unique blend of awe-inspiring sights and immersive cultural experiences.

Having personally experienced the magic of Cairo and a mesmerizing Nile river cruise, here’s my expert guide, insider tips, and recommendations to help you plan an unforgettable Egypt vacation to this bucket list-worthy destination.

There are many reasons to visit Egypt and why it should be on your bucket list. Imagine standing in the shadow of the Great Pyramids of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, or gazing upon the enigmatic Sphinx, a testament to the ingenuity of ancient Egyptian civilization.

Beyond these iconic landmarks, Egypt offers a diverse array of experiences, from exploring bustling cities like Cairo to cruising along the mighty Nile River, witnessing remnants of ancient temples and tombs.

Egypt is also known for its welcoming people, delicious cuisine, and vibrant markets, making it an immersive cultural journey unlike any other.

Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of ancient wonders, Egypt has something to offer every traveler on an Egypt tour or Egypt vacation.

As the vibrant capital of Egypt, Cairo is a bustling metropolis that seamlessly blends ancient wonders with modern life. Here, you’ll find some of the country’s most iconic attractions, along with a lively cultural scene and a rich culinary heritage.

No visit to Cairo is complete without witnessing the awe-inspiring Giza Pyramids and the Great Sphinx . These ancient marvels, dating back over 4,500 years, are a testament to the ingenuity and engineering prowess of the ancient Egyptians.

For a unique experience , consider booking a camel ride to explore the Giza plateau and capture stunning views of the pyramids .

Beyond the pyramids, Cairo offers a wealth of cultural experiences. The Egyptian Museum is a must-visit, housing an unparalleled collection of ancient artifacts, including the treasures of Tutankhamun’s tomb .

For a taste of local culture, head to the vibrant Khan El Khalili Bazaar , where you can haggle for souvenirs, sample delicious street food, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere.

For a comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Cairo, check out our article on things to do in Cairo Egypt .

Want to see more of Cairo? Get a glimpse of the beauty of Cairo in this video:

The mighty Nile River played a crucial role in the development of ancient Egyptian civilization, and today, it offers a unique way to explore the country’s rich history. A Nile River cruise is an unforgettable experience , providing a luxurious and convenient way to witness some of Egypt’s most remarkable ancient sites.

As you glide along the Nile, you’ll have the opportunity to visit iconic temples and tombs that have stood the test of time.

From the awe-inspiring Philae Temple Complex to the intricate carvings of Edfu Temple , each site offers a glimpse into the grandeur and sophistication of ancient Egyptian architecture.

One of the highlights of a Nile cruise is the chance to explore Luxor , known as the “world’s greatest open-air museum.” Here, you can delve into the Valley of the Kings, where ancient pharaohs were laid to rest, and marvel at the stunning Temple of Queen Hatshepsut , a stunning example of ancient engineering carved into the cliffs.

Throughout your journey, you’ll be treated to the comfort and luxury of a modern riverboat, complete with amenities such as spacious cabins, fine dining, and entertainment. It’s a truly immersive way to experience the wonders of ancient Egypt.

Egypt’s ancient history is also brought to life through captivating performances, such as the whirling dervish dance, a mesmerizing spiritual ritual that dates back centuries. Consider attending a show to witness this captivating display of music, movement, and devotion.

See these ancient wonders come alive in this video:

When planning your trip to Egypt, timing is crucial. The best time to visit Egypt is during the cooler months, from October to April, when temperatures are milder and more comfortable for sightseeing. Here are some key factors to consider:

• The shoulder seasons (spring and fall) offer the best balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
• Peak season brings more tourists, but if that’s your only option, be prepared for the crowds.
• Summer months in Egypt can be scorching hot, so consider that if you’re particularly heat sensitive.

When planning your trip to Egypt, consider attending major festivals like Ramadan or national holidays, which can impact opening hours and crowd levels at popular attractions.

To help you, I’ve created a guide covering everything you need to know while Visiting Egypt During Ramadan: Insider Guide to Celebration .

Before embarking on your Egyptian adventure, it’s essential to understand the visa requirements and travel costs. Check the visa requirements for your nationality well in advance. Many countries can obtain a visa upon arrival at Egyptian airports, but it’s best to confirm and be prepared. The visa fee is generally around $25 USD.

As for the trip to Egypt cost is relatively affordable compared to other popular destinations. You can expect to spend around $50-$100 per day for a mid-range traveler, including accommodation, food, transportation, and entry fees to major attractions. Here’s a rough estimate of some common expenses:

• Airfare: $500-$1,000 roundtrip from major U.S. cities
• Mid-range hotel: $50-$100 per night
• Budget hotel: $20-$50 per night
• Meals: $10-$25 per day (street food and casual restaurants)
• Transportation: $5-$10 per day (for taxis and public transport)
• Entrance fees: $10-$25 per site (e.g., pyramids, temples, museums)

To save money, consider staying in budget-friendly accommodations. A wide range of options exist, from budget hostels to luxurious hotels. Eating at local street food stalls and local eateries is incredibly affordable, and you’ll find delicious meals for just a few dollars. When exploring attractions, transportation like local buses and taxis is budget-friendly. Consider a Nile Cruise package for an all-inclusive experience.

Here are some unique adventures that you must experience when traveling to Egypt.

• Soar over Luxor in a hot air balloon for breathtaking views of temples and the Valley of the Kings at sunrise-a true bucket list moment!
• Camel rides near the Pyramids are a popular choice, but it’s important to be aware of the ethical concerns. To learn more, check out this article, Why A Camel Ride in Egypt Commands a Conflicting Ethical Decision delves into this complex topic.
• Immerse yourself in Islamic Cairo. Discover its rich history and architectural beauty at the magnificent Al-Azhar Mosque.
• No trip to Egypt is complete without sampling the delicious local cuisine! Try  koshari  (a hearty mix of rice, lentils, and pasta),  falafel  (chickpea fritters), and don’t forget stuffed pigeon – an Egyptian delicacy.

Planning a trip to Egypt can raise a lot of questions, so we’ve compiled some frequently asked questions to help you prepare for your journey.

Egypt is generally safe for tourists, especially when traveling with a reputable tour company or guide. However, it’s always important to exercise caution, be aware of your surroundings, and follow the advice of local authorities.

For long-distance travel, consider taking domestic flights or booking a Nile River cruise. Within cities, taxis and public transportation are affordable and convenient options. Hiring a private driver or tour guide can also make navigating Egypt more comfortable.

While it’s possible to explore some sites independently, booking guided tours in advance can provide invaluable insights and ensure a smoother experience. Guided tours are highly recommended for complex sites like the pyramids, Valley of the Kings, and ancient temples.

It’s important to dress modestly when visiting religious sites or Islamic mosques. Opt for lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Women may also want to carry a scarf to cover their heads when entering mosques.

No specific vaccinations are required for most travelers, but it’s always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider before your trip. Ensure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date, and consider getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and typhoid fever. Bringing insect repellent and staying hydrated are also recommended.

Yes, most nationalities require a visa to visit Egypt. However, the process is relatively straightforward, and there are a couple of ways to obtain one:

Visa on Arrival: Citizens of many countries can obtain a visa upon arrival at Egypt’s international airports. The process involves filling out a form, paying a fee (typically around $25 USD, payable in cash), and having a passport valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.

E-Visa: For added convenience, many nationalities can apply for an e-Visa in advance through the official Egyptian government portal ([invalid URL removed]). The process is entirely online and typically takes a few days for approval.

Important Notes:

Specific Requirements:  Always double-check the visa requirements for your specific nationality, as there may be variations. Some countries may have additional requirements or longer processing times.

Visa Validity:  The most common tourist visa for Egypt is valid for 30 days. If you plan to stay longer, consider applying for a multiple-entry visa or inquire about visa extensions upon arrival.

Resources:  For official visa information and updates, visit the Egyptian government website or consult your nearest Egyptian embassy or consulate.

By following this expert Egypt travel guide, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and insider tips to plan an extraordinary journey through Cairo and the heart of ancient Egyptian civilization, Nile.

Egypt promises to leave a lasting impression and will surely capture your heart. So, pack your sense of adventure, embrace the rich culture, and embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to this bucket list-worthy destination.

The post Egypt Bucket List: Your Expert Guide to Cairo & The Nile appeared first on The Design Tourist .

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The Most Famous Luxor Tourist Attractions

Awards & recognitions.

Luxor Tourist Attractions will shed some light on how glorious and brilliant the ancient Egyptian Civilization was. On the page is a number of articles showcasing all the information about all the enchanting attractions located in the city of Luxor such as Hatshepsut Temple, Valley of the Kings, Karnak temples Complex , Luxor Temple, and many more. Since 1987, Egypt Tours Portal was the finest travel agency where every traveler can experience all the art, history, and culture of this golden city in the most entertaining manner. The travel agency is equipped to have the finest staff of tour guides, tour operators, drivers, and customer service plus several dedicated travel constants who will provide the most suitable Accommodations, Nile River cruises, Transportation, and everything else you could ever request at reasonable prices.

Egypt Tours Portal gained its excellent reputation due to absolutely fitting booking procedures and safety guidelines which lead the company to be awarded many prizes such as being Certified By Tripadvisor As the Travelers’ Choice of 2022 in Egypt – Winner of Luxury Lifestyle Awards In the Category of the Best Luxury Travel Agency in Egypt in 2020 – Winner of Africa 2020 Award For the Best Cultural Experience Tours in Egypt From the Travel & Hospitality Awards Magazine – Excellent Number of 5-star rating reviews in Feefo” and many more achievements in the way. Enjoy your vacation in Luxor and witness the divine treasures of Upper Egypt.

Karnak Temple

Karnak Temple also is known as the temple of Amun, it was called Ipet-isu or "The most select of places" ...

18 November, 2017

Luxor Temple

Luxor temple is one of the most beautiful and powerful temples in Egypt, it was known as Ipt-Rsyt or the ...

Valley of the Kings

Discover the most important information about Valley of the Kings facts, Valey of the Kings map, Valley o...

12 May, 2018

Queen Hatshepsut Temple

Get more information about Hatshepsut temple facts, where is the temple located. Also, discover how the t...

06 September, 2018

Colossi of Memnon

Colossi of Memnon are two massive monumental stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III (1386-1353 BCE) from ...

29 September, 2018

Luxor Museum

Luxor Museum is located on the East Bank of the Nile River in Luxor and to be more specific, it is exactl...

25 October, 2018

Abydos Temple

Abydos temple is one of the holiest & oldest sites in the history of ancient Egypt “Abydos”, Located ...

01 November, 2018

Dendera Temple Complex

On the west bank of the Nile opposite the city of Qena, 2.5 km (1.6 mi) south-east of the city of Dendera...

03 November, 2018

Esna Temple

Esna temple held a special place among the holiest temples of Egypt, as it represents one of the main asp...

14 September, 2019

Valley of the Nobles

Discover interesting facts about Valley of the Nobles, we provide you the most important information abou...

08 November, 2018

Valley of the Queens

Read the most important facts about the Valley of the Queens, know the most famous tombs inside the Valle...

09 December, 2018

Tomb of Ramses IV

The tomb of Ramses IV (KV2) is known for its simplistic design and decoration. Read more facts about Rams...

02 November, 2020

The Karnak Cachette Discovery

In 1903, a major discovery was made by Georges Legrain in the courtyard of the temple of Amun. Read more ...

20 April, 2021

Deir El Medina

Deir El Medina is an ancient Egyptian village that was home to the workers who built the tombs in the Val...

22 January, 2023

Medinet Habu

Discover Medinet Habu, an ancient Egyptian temple with captivating reliefs, inscriptions, and a connectio...

25 January, 2023

Ramesseum is an ancient Egyptian temple dedicated to Pharaoh Ramesses II. Read more facts about the Rames...

29 January, 2023

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How Good is Egypt Tours Portal ?

Egypt Tours Portal prides itself on being the best travel agency in Egypt as proven by our numerous positive reviews

My fiancé and I booked a private 5 day tour of Egypt with ETP starting in Cairo followed by Aswan, Abu Simbel and Luxor. We just Read More got home and continue to talk about how amazing the trip was. The communication with ETP was excellent. Very fast responses and they are very accommodating. Our tour was nonstop which was okay by us as we wanted to see all the sights in 4 days. Read Less

This was the trip of a lifetime that I was able to have with my eldest son - an absolutely amazing experience. To be able to actua Read More lly see the places and artifacts that I had read about and studied was truly phenomenal. Our hotels were great, the travel to and from sites was completely taken care of, we never felt unsafe or left to our own devices, and the itinerary was just right. But what made the experience so fab was our two guides - Mahmoud Nour in Luxor/Aswan/Abu Simbel and "Max" in Cairo/Memphis/Saqqara. They taught us history and context as it related to each site we visited and they indulged my myriad questions. They were both so incredibly knowledgeable and my questions were never ignored or unanswered. In addition, they shared their culture with us and treated us to some awesome dining experiences. We were reminded that Egypt is more than just ancient ruins. I would recommend without reservation this tour experience. And "hats off" to Mahmoud and Max!!! I left feeling like I had made some great new friends. And I can't wait to try some home-made kushari. Read Less

L Joe Smith

Egypt Tours Portal is an excellent company to use to arrange your visit to Egypt. They work with phenomenal guides (we had Mahmoud Read More Nour in Upper Egypt and Mohsen aka Max in Lower Egypt...I would recommend asking for these guides by name, as they were truly superb), make all the necessary arrangements in terms of drivers, covid testing, hotels, and in-country flights, and can tailor your tour to whatever it is you most want to see. The entire experience was smooth from start to finish. Both Mahmoud and Max spoke excellent English, were extremely knowledgeable, and went out of their way to ensure our experience was everything we hoped it would be. This was the second time I have used ETP, and I will continue to recommend them to anyone who expresses any interest in exploring Egypt. We especially liked that our tour group was limited to only our party, which meant we got one-on-one attention at all the sites, and allowed us to get answers to all our questions. And for those of you who are worried about safety or health in Egypt, in our experience it was extremely safe, and we never had any issues related to COVID-19. Cannot recommend Egypt Tours Portal enough. Choose them, you won't regret it. Read Less

It was an absolutely amazing trip where we saw some of the most historical and beautiful sights in Egypt. Our tour guide Mohamed E Read More lshemei was extremely knowledgeable and accommodating to our needs Read Less

Highly recommend this tour company!!! Our guides, Moses, Mahmoud, Magred and Mohamed were exceptional, their knowledge of the hist Read More ory is more that accurate, they are also very patient!! For the price and all the attractions, the Nile cruise and the included meals.....well worth it!!! It is a very busy tour, but well worth it!!! Read Less

This review is a late, but I had to provide some feedback. My brother and I went on vacation in October 2022 and booked with Egypt Read More Tours Portal. With on-line scams on-going, I was a little wary at first. BUT, the experience was amazing. Personal guides and drivers, lodging, food was amazing and perfect. The guides were very knowledgeable, but more importantly PASSIONATE about their job and culture. They went out of their way to take care of us. If you happen to get Zeze or Marianne, you have gotten the best. Read Less

Timmy Lovett

Frequently asked questions, what is luxor known for.

It is the oldest and most Ancient Egyptian site in the world. Originally called 'Thebes' in ancient Egypt, Luxor is often known also as the 'World's greatest open-air Museum'.

Is Luxor worth visiting?

Luxor is considered to be the world's greatest open-air museum where every traveler from all over the world can witness some incredible attractions and enjoy some entertaining activities like a Nile Cruise or a hot-air balloon across the wonders of the city.

What is there to do in the Luxor at night?

Get enlightened at Karnak temple light and sound show. Bedazzled by Luxor temple. Take a horse and carriage ride along the Corniche. Taste the delicious traditional Egyptian cuisines. Dine at the Winter Palace and take a nightcap at their Royal Bar. Sail the Nile on a felucca under the stars of the heavens Do some night exploration at the Luxor Museum. Do some Night Shopping

What to do in Luxor?

There are a number of fun activities besides exploring the archaeological attractions such as the temple of Hatshepsut, the Karnak temple, the Luxor temple, the colossal colossi of Memnon, the Valley of the kings and many more which can make your time in Luxor feel like heaven like a hot air balloon trip above the entire city, a heavenly Nile cruise through upper Egypt from Luxor to Aswan, a private felucca across the Nile in Luxor, a horse carriage ride, the extraordinary sound and light show of Luxor temple and more. Read more about the best things to do in Luxor city .

How many days in Luxor is enough?

Two or three days is the ideal time to fully explore all the attractions in Luxor.

Is Luxor Egypt safe for tourists?

Luxor is one of the safest destinations in Egypt where every British traveler will get to witness the wonders of the amazing city of Luxor which was a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. The cleansing of all the visited attractions of Luxor on a daily basis has become a priority to ensure its total sanitary. Plus all the sites and tourists of Luxor will be guides all the time by the military and police force to ensure their safety.

What is the temperature in Luxor?

The average high temperatures of Luxor are about 40 °C (104 °F) in summer (May, June, July, August, August, September) but in the coldest months of the year (November, December January, February, March, and April) average high temperatures remain about 22 °C (71.6 °F) which makes it the ideal time to visit.

What Are the Finest Destinations to Visit in Egypt?

The entire country of Egypt deserve to be explored with its every heavenly detail but there are places that must be seen before any other such as the breathtaking Hurghada's red sea, The wonders of Cairo the pyramids of Giza, the great sphinx, the Egyptian Museum, Khan El Khalili Bazaar, the wonders of Luxor like Valley of the Kings, Karnak & Hatshepsut temple and the wonders of Aswan such as Abu Simbel temples, Philea temple, Unfinished obelisk and The Wonders of Alexandria like Qaitbat Citadel, Pompey's Pillar and Alexandria Library. Read more about the best places to visit in Egypt .

What Are Egypt's Visa Requirements?

If you want to apply for a Visa On Arrival that lasts for 30 days then you should be one of the eligible countries, have a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining and pay 25$ USD in cash, as for the E-Visa for 30 day you should have a valid passport for at least 8 months, complete the online application, pay the e-visa fee then print the e-visa to later be presented to the airport border guard. You could also be one of the lucky ones who can obtain a free visa for 90 days. Read more about Egypt travel visa .

What Is the Top Traditional Egyptian Food?

Egypt has a variety of delicious cuisines but we recommend “Ful & Ta’meya (Fava Beans and Falafel)”, Mulukhiya, “Koshary”, a traditional Egyptian pasta dish, and Kebab & Kofta, the Egyptian traditional meat dish.

What is the Best Time to Visit Egypt?

The best time to travel to Egypt is during the winter from September to April as the climate becomes a little tropical accompanied by a magical atmosphere of warm weather with a winter breeze. You will be notified in the week of your trip if the Climate is unsafe and if any changes have been made.

What to Pack for Your Egypt Tour?

You should pack everything you could ever need in a small bag so you could move easily between your destinations.

Why Book With "Egypt Tours Portal"?

We have been creating the finest vacations for more than 20 years around the most majestic destinations in Egypt. Our staff consists of the best operators, guides and drivers who dedicate all of their time & effort to make you have the perfect vacation. All of our tours are customized by Travel, Financial & Time consultants to fit your every possible need during your vacation. It doesn't go without saying that your safety and comfort are our main priority and all of our resources will be directed to provide the finest atmosphere until you return home.

Is it Safe to Travel to Egypt?

You will feel safe in Egypt as the current atmosphere of the country is quite peaceful after the government took powerful measures like restructuring the entire tourist police to include all the important and tourist attractions in Egypt. Read more about is it safe to travel to Egypt .

What to Wear While in Egypt?

Wear whatever feels right and comfortable. It is advised to wear something light and comfortable footwear like a closed-toe shoe to sustain the terrain of Egypt. Put on sun block during your time in Egypt in the summer to protect yourself from the sun.

What are the Best Activities to Do in Egypt?

The best activity is by far boarding a Nile Cruise between Luxor and Aswan or Vise Versa. Witness the beauty of Egypt from a hot balloon or a plane and try all the delicious Egyptian cuisines and drinks plus shopping in old Cairo. Explore the allure and wonders of the red sea in the magical city resorts of Egypt like Hurghada and many more by diving and snorkeling in the marine life or Hurghada. Behold the mesmerizing western desert by a safari trip under the heavenly Egyptian skies.

What are Egypt Festival and Public Holidays?

There are a lot of public holidays in Egypt too many to count either religious or nation, the most important festivals are the holy month of Ramadan which ends with Eid Al Fitr, Christmas and new years eve. Read more about festivals & publich holidays in Egypt .

What are Special Advice for Foreign Women in Egypt?

Egypt is considered to be one of the most liberal Islamic countries but it has become a little bit conservative in the last couple of decades so it is advised to avoid showing your chest, shoulders or legs below the knees.

What are the Official Languages of Egypt?

Arabic is the official language and Most Egyptians, who live in the cities, speak or understand English or at least some English words or phrases. Fewer Egyptians can speak French, Italian, Spanish, and German. Professional tour guides, who work in the tourism sector, are equipped to handle visitors who cannot speak Arabic and they will speak enough English and other languages to fulfill the needs of all our clients.

What is the Transportation in Egypt?

The fastest way is a car, of course, a taxi. If you are in Cairo ride a white taxi to move faster or you could board the fastest way of transportation in Egypt metro if the roads are in rush hour.

What is the Weather is Like?

The temperature in Egypt ranges from 37c to 14 c. Summer in Egypt is somehow hot but sometimes it becomes cold at night and winter is cool and mild. The average of low temperatures vary from 9.5 °C in the wintertime to 23 °C in the summertime and the average high temperatures vary from 17 °C in the wintertime to 32 °C in the summertime. The temperature is moderate all along the coasts.

What are the Reasons That Make You Visit Egypt?

It is the home of everything a traveler might be looking for from amazing historical sites dating to more than 4000 years to enchanting city resorts & beaches. You will live the vacation you deserve as Egypt has everything you could possibly imagine.

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