Luxor

Top Things to Do in Luxor

  • Karnak Temple Complex – One of the world’s largest religious sites with towering columns and stunning hieroglyphs. Best visited early morning before crowds arrive 

  • Luxor Temple – Located in the city, built by Amenhotep III & Ramses II, illuminated at night for a magical ambience .

  • Valley of the Kings & Queens – Visit the royal tombs, including Tutankhamun’s; you’ll need separate tickets for some tombs 

  • Temple of Hatshepsut (Deir el‑Bahri) – A terraced marvel set against cliff backdrop, celebrating Egypt’s famous female pharaoh 

  • Colossi of Memnon – Two massive 18 m statues on the West Bank, perfect for a quick visit

  • Avenue of the Sphinxes – Reopened in 2021, this 2 km pathway linking Karnak to Luxor Temple is lined with 1,057 sphinx statues

  • Hot Air Balloon Ride – A sunrise flight over the Nile and ancient ruins is unforgettable; book ahead for October–April

  • Felucca or Dahabiya Nile Cruise – Sail at sunset in a traditional sailboat or multi-day cruise enjoying scenic views & village life 

  • Luxor Museum & Mummification Museum – Dive deeper into local history and ancient embalming techniques

  • Deir el‑Medina (Workers’ Village) & Ramesseum – Explore the artisans' village and Ramesses II’s mortuary temple for rich cultural insight 

  • Local Markets & Souks – Browse spices, papyrus art, alabaster statues, Egyptian cotton, and textiles—bargaining customary 

  • Ride a Horse‑carriage or Camel – Take classic tours through the old town or along the desert fringes .

 Eat & Drink

  • Try local street food like koshari, tameya (falafel), pigeon dishes, feteer mehaltit, and molokhia at markets or cafés 

  • Dine rooftop with a sunset view over the Nile—look out for kofta, Egyptian tea, and mint-infused treats

  • Travel Tips

  • 🕒 Best time to visit: October–April—ideal for hot air ballooning and exploring temples.

  • 🎫 Tickets & guides: Licensed guides are highly recommended to navigate sites and manage hassle from sellers

  • 💰 Booking tips: Reserve balloon rides and museum/tomb access in advance.

  • 🧢 Health & comfort: Bring sunscreen, a hat, comfortable shoes, and a reusable water bottle for temple exploration.

 Where to Stay

Area Why Stay
East Bank (Corniche) Close to Luxor Temple, museums & restaurants
West Bank Tranquil hotels near tombs and temple sites
Nile-side boutique hotels Perfect for balloon pick-ups and river views

Popular choices: historic Nile‑view hotels, mid-range boutique stays, and family-friendly resorts.

 Highlights & Updates

  • EasyJet resumes London–Luxor flights from November, offering winter temperatures of 23–26 °C and rooms from £10/night

  • Luxor is deemed "world’s greatest open-air museum"—a top pick for architecture lovers including Karnak and Luxor Temples