Luxor

Often referred to as the world’s greatest open-air museum, Luxor is home to remarkable temples and tombs from ancient Egypt.

About the Destination

Luxor is ancient Thebes, capital of Egypt at the height of the New Kingdom, and is often called the world's greatest open-air museum. The Nile divides it in two: temples on the east bank, where the living worshipped, and tombs on the west bank, where the pharaohs were buried.

What Luxor is known for

On the east bank, Karnak Temple is the largest religious complex ever built, joined to Luxor Temple by the restored Avenue of Sphinxes. On the west bank lie the Valley of the Kings (including Tutankhamun's tomb), the Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari, Medinet Habu, the Valley of the Queens and the Colossi of Memnon. At dawn, hot air balloons float over it all.

Best time to visit

October to April is ideal. Summer is extremely hot (often above 40°C), so if you come then, start at sunrise and rest at midday.

How long to stay

Two to three days: one for each bank and a morning for a balloon ride or a museum. Many visitors start or finish a Nile cruise here.

Tips

Buy a combined west bank plan with a guide, as the sites are spread out. Bring water and a hat, and agree on prices for carriage and boat rides before you go.

Gallery

Luxor

Luxor Weather

Getting there

Luxor is accessible via Luxor International Airport (LXR), which has regular flights from major cities in Egypt and abroad. The city is also reachable by train, bus, and car from Cairo and other parts of Egypt. Nile cruises often start or end in Luxor

Attractions

Colossi of Memnon

East and West Bank of Luxor

Temple of Seti I (Abydos)

Activties

Hot Air Balloon Rides

Plan your Journey

Popular Attractions

Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deeper connection with the local heritage, our list of popular attractions will help guide your journey and ensure you don't miss the must-see locations

Colossi of Memnon

The Colossi of Memnon are two giant seated statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III, about 18 metres tall, that once guarded the entrance to his vast mortuary temple on Luxor's west bank.

East and West Bank of Luxor

Luxor is divided by the Nile. The east bank, where the sun rises, was the city of the living, with the great temples of Karnak and Luxor. The west bank, where the sun sets, was the city of the dead, with royal tombs and memorial temples.

Karnak Temple

Karnak is the largest temple complex ever built, developed over about 2,000 years by generations of pharaohs in honour of the god Amun-Ra.

Luxor Museum

The Luxor Museum on the Corniche is small but beautifully displayed, with a carefully chosen collection of statues and objects from Thebes.

Luxor Temple

Luxor Temple stands in the centre of the city on the Nile. Built mainly by Amenhotep III and Ramses II, it was dedicated to the renewal of kingship.

Medinet Habu

Medinet Habu is the mortuary temple of Ramses III on Luxor's west bank, and one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt.

Temple of Hatshepsut

The Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari rises in three wide terraces against the cliffs of Luxor's west bank. It was built for Hatshepsut, one of the few women to rule Egypt as pharaoh.

Temple of Seti I (Abydos)

The Temple of Seti I at Abydos, north of Luxor, is famous for some of the finest reliefs in Egypt. Abydos was the holy city of Osiris, god of the afterlife.

Tutankhamun's Tomb

The tomb of Tutankhamun (KV62) in the Valley of the Kings was discovered by Howard Carter in 1922, almost untouched and full of treasure.

Valley of the Kings

The Valley of the Kings, on Luxor's west bank, was the burial place of Egypt's New Kingdom pharaohs for about 500 years. More than sixty tombs have been found, cut deep into the rock.

Valley of the Queens

The Valley of the Queens was the burial place of royal wives and children of the New Kingdom.

Accommodation

Luxor offers grand Nile-side hotels from the golden age of travel, modern resorts and simple guesthouses on the quieter west bank, close to the tombs and fields.

Famous Hotels

Stay on the east bank for restaurants and the temples, or on the west bank for village calm and early starts at the Valley of the Kings.

Djorff Palace

A stunning boutique hotel located on the West Bank, featuring traditional architecture and luxurious accommodations.

Maritim Jolie Ville Resort & Casino Luxor

A well-appointed resort offering a range of amenities and activities for a relaxing stay.

Mercure Luxor Karnak

A modern hotel located near the Karnak Temple complex, offering comfortable accommodations and excellent facilities.

Nefertiti Hotel

A budget-friendly hotel offering comfortable accommodations and a friendly atmosphere.

Pavillon Winter Luxor

A charming hotel set within the lush gardens of the Winter Palace, offering modern comforts and classic elegance.

Philippe Hotel Luxor

A budget-friendly hotel providing comfortable rooms and essential services.

Pyramisa Isis Hotel & Suites Luxor

A comfortable hotel offering a range of amenities and a great location near the Nile.

Steigenberger Nile Palace Luxor

A high-end hotel offering stunning views of the Nile, luxurious accommodations, and extensive facilities.

Food Experience

Luxor's food is Upper Egyptian home cooking: sun-risen bread, slow-cooked stews and fresh produce from the fields around the city.

Favorite Cuisines

Eat on a rooftop facing the Nile or the temples, and try a home-cooked meal in a west bank village.

Eish Shamsi

Upper Egypt's 'sun bread', left to rise in the sun and baked in clay ovens.

Molokhia

A green soup of jute leaves with garlic and coriander, served with rice, chicken or rabbit.

Hamam Mahshi

Pigeon stuffed with spiced rice or freekeh and roasted: a local favourite.

Karkadeh

Chilled hibiscus tea, deep red and refreshing, served everywhere in the south.

Transportation & More

Luxor is compact on the east bank and spread out on the west bank. The Nile is part of the transport network: ferries and boats cross all day.

Transportation Options

Walk or take a carriage on the east bank, cross by ferry, and hire a car or bicycle for the west bank sites.

Calèche

Horse-drawn carriages along the Corniche and to Karnak; agree the price and route before you start.

Public Ferry

The local ferry crosses the Nile between the banks in minutes for a few pounds.

Felucca and Motorboat

Hire a sailboat for a sunset trip or a motorboat to Banana Island.

Bicycles

A pleasant way to see the west bank villages in the cool morning.

Taxis and Private Drivers

Best for the west bank tombs and day trips to Dendera or Edfu.

Airport Transfers

Luxor International Airport (LXR) is about 20 minutes from the centre; sleeper and day trains link Luxor with Cairo and Aswan.

Popular Activties

From thrilling adventures to cultural immersions, each city offers unique experiences that cater to every traveler’s interests.

Full Day Private Luxor East & West Bank Tour With Egyptian Lunch

This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate to all the mentioned sights with your own private guide. You will explore Karnak & Luxor Temple East Bank Valley of Kings & Hatshepsut Temple West Bank

From $200

Full day tour Valley of the kings, Memnon & Hatshepsut temple

Enjoy a more personalized Luxor experience when you book this private tour. Go back in time with a full-day private tour of Luxor's top attractions. Your Egyptologist Licensed guide will take you to historic sites such as the Valley of the

From $25

Full-Day tour Luxor East and West Banks ( private )

Enjoy the land of the ancient pharaohs the mothe land of civilizations such as valley of the kings, Queen Hatshepsut temple, Colossi of Memnon, Luxor and Karnak temples

From $15

Luxor Half day Valley Of The King and Hatshepsut and Memnon

Luxor Half-day Tour, featuring the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, and the Colossi of Memnon. This expertly guided tour offers a captivating glimpse into the lives and legacies of Egypt's legendary rulers. Begin your

From $15

5 Day Nile Cruise from Luxor to Aswan

Join this 5-day Nile River trip to experience the beautiful sights of Egypt's diverse scenery and famous historical sites. As you sail from Luxor to Aswan, you'll be treated to five-star service aboard your magnificent cruise ship. Take in

From $820

An Unforgettable Day in Luxor

Non-Classical programs takes you away from traditional circuits.. visits with professional Francophone Egyptologist guides, clear, captivating and always rewarding explanations .. historical context and fascinating details that bring the

From $102

All-Inclusive Full Day To Explore Luxor's East & West Bank

Explore Luxor's Majesty: Kings, Queens & Temple Wonders. Unveil the wonders of ancient Egypt on this captivating day tour! Our expert guide whisks you away to explore the wonders on the Nile's west bank. Valley of the Kings: Descend into

From $89

Luxor Tour to Valley of Kings, Hatshepsut and Memnon

Learn about Egypt's ancient history with this unique tour led by an Egyptologist guide. You'll visit the Valley of the Kings, the Colossi of Memnon and Hatshepsut Temple all in just one day. For extra convenience, this tour includes

From $75

Big brother travel

We are a company based in Luxor with more than ten years of experience in the transportation field. For us, your safety is the most important thing, our cars have air conditioning. We also offer personalized tours throughout the country.

From $25

Luxor Private Sunset Felucca Ride on Nile River

Step aboard a traditional wooden sailboat and drift into Egypt’s ancient rhythm. As the sail catches the wind, the noise of the city fades away — replaced by the gentle splash of water and the soft hum of the river breeze. The view?

From $15

5 Day Nile Cruise From Luxor to Aswan with Abu simble Air Balloon

Explore the rich tapestry of ancient Egyptian history with a captivating Nile River cruise through southern Egypt. Embark on a 5-day journey starting in Luxor, winding your way to Aswan, and discovering iconic landmarks such as the…

From $978

4-Day Nile Cruise from Luxor to Aswan with Expert Guide

Embark on a luxurious 4-day Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan and explore Egypt’s most iconic ancient treasures with a certified Egyptologist. This journey blends comfort, history, and breathtaking scenery as you sail along the legendary

From $497

Luxor Photography Tour

we assure you that you will Save your memories with a professional photographer and videographer through your trip with stunning photos. We will have a tour around the temple, shoot photos and have special moments.

From $100

Full Day Private Tour of Luxor West Bank Temples and Tombs

Discover the remarkable treasures of Luxor’s West Bank on a private full-day tour through the heart of ancient Egypt. Visit the Valley of the Kings and explore the beautifully decorated tombs of ancient pharaohs. Continue to the

From $19

Private Full day tour to West and East Bank of Luxor

See the most famous sites around Luxor on both sides of the river in one day. Visit Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple on the East bank and then see the Valley of the Kings and Hatshepsut Temple on the West Bank. Start Luxor City Tour through

From $48

Private Luxor Highlights Tour | East & West Bank

Discover the very best of Luxor in one unforgettable private day. Explore the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, the Temple of Hatshepsut, and the Colossi of Memnon with your own licensed Egyptologist guide. Travel in a

From $46

Private Luxor West Bank Temples and Tombs Experience

Discover Luxor’s West Bank on a private full-day tour through ancient Thebes. Visit the Valley of the Kings and Valley of the Queens, explore the impressive Temple of Habu and the ancient workers’ village of Deir el-Medina, then admire…

From $27

West Bank Tombs & Temples

Embark on a captivating journey with a NASCO Tours representative to explore Luxor’s most remarkable ancient sites. Begin with a scenic drive to the Valley of the Kings, the royal burial ground of Egypt’s great pharaohs, where you will…

From $208

Half-Day Tour to the Valley of the Kings, Deir EL Bahari &Collosi of Memnon

This tour is your best option to discover the most popular sites on the West Bank in Luxor with a professional Egyptologist, and all of that at a Budget-Friendly Price

From $35

Tour to The East & West Bank of the Nile

From $169

3-Day Luxor Aswan and Abu Simbel Historical Sites Private Tour

Explore two of Egypt’s most popular Cities, Luxor and Aswan and travel back through thousands of years of history with your informative guide. that’s perfect for lovers of history. Learn the stories of kings and Queens as you explore them

From $251

Luxor Full Day Tour with King Tutankhamun’s Tomb

This tour offers a truly premium Luxor experience designed for travelers who want more than the standard sightseeing trip. What makes it unique is the special entry to the Tomb of Tutankhamun, a must-see site that many tours do not

From $140

Full Day Tour of the West and East Banks of Luxor

Exploring the magnificent ancient wonders of Luxor. This full-day tour takes you to the iconic temples of Luxor and Karnak on the East Bank, followed by a mesmerizing exploration of the Valley of the Kings and Queen Hatshepsut's Temple on…

From $69

Private tour Luxor Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut, Karnak Lunch

Discover the iconic treasures of ancient Egypt on a full-day tour of Luxor’s East and West Banks. Led by an expert Egyptologist guide, this experience is available as both a private tour or a small group option to suit your preferences.

From $19

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