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Luxor, Egypt

Destination Guide

Luxor

Egypt

Best things to do in Luxor

25 curated attractions in Luxor, Egypt. Handpicked for every kind of traveler.

Best time

October - April

Average temp

29°C/84°F

Budget

Budget-friendly

Safety

Generally safe

About Luxor

Luxor, the ancient Thebes, is often called the world's largest open-air museum, where a remarkable concentration of temples and tombs makes history inescapable. The most famous highlights include the Karnak Temple, which takes up a staggering 100 acres, and the Valley of the Kings, which holds the final resting places of pharaohs including Tutankhamun. The city’s layout is heavily influenced by its rich history, with the Nile flowing alongside, setting the stage for temples like Luxor Temple and the funerary temple of Medinet Habu. The Colossi of Memnon, massive statues guarding the entrance to a mortuary temple, stand as a reminder of the grandeur that once was. While the riverside Corniche offers a leisurely promenade, the modern city is primarily a hub for tourists heading to these ancient sites, making it a center for those eager to immerse themselves in Egyptian history.

Who it's for

Great for history buffs and travelers seeking to explore ancient Egyptian civilization. Not ideal for those looking for nightlife or modern amenities, as public transport is poor and the area can feel overwhelming during peak tourist seasons with large crowds.

Getting around

Public transport: Poor

  • The Karnak Temple to Luxor Temple is a fifteen-minute walk along the Corniche
  • The Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens are about thirty minutes by taxi from the city center, though taxis can be hard to come by
  • Many tombs require a ticket that you can purchase at the entrance, and be prepared for some walking between the sites
Amenhotep III Sun Temple

Amenhotep III Sun Temple

Ancient ruins & archaeological sites
Temple of Tutankhamun

Temple of Tutankhamun

Cemeteries & tombs
Tombs of the Nobles

Tombs of the Nobles

Cemeteries & tombs
Temple of Seti I

Temple of Seti I

Ancient ruins & archaeological sites
Temple of Merenptah

Temple of Merenptah

Ancient ruins & archaeological sites
Dra Abu el-Naga

Dra Abu el-Naga

Ancient ruins & archaeological sites
Tomb of Nefertari

Tomb of Nefertari

Historical
Deir el-Medina

Deir el-Medina

Ancient ruins & archaeological sites
Luxor Temple

Luxor Temple

Ancient ruins & archaeological sites
Valley of the Kings

Valley of the Kings

Cemeteries & tombs
Temple of Ramesses III

Temple of Ramesses III

Ancient ruins & archaeological sites
Karnak Temple

Karnak Temple

Ancient ruins & archaeological sites
Medinet Habu

Medinet Habu

Ancient ruins & archaeological sites
Hatshepsut Temple

Hatshepsut Temple

Ancient ruins & archaeological sites
Corniche

Corniche

Canals, harbours & waterfronts
Ramesseum

Ramesseum

Ancient ruins & archaeological sites
Avenue of Sphinx

Avenue of Sphinx

Cultural & Heritage Sites
Valley of the Queens

Valley of the Queens

Cemeteries & tombs
Luxor Museum

Luxor Museum

History museums
Colossi of Memnon

Colossi of Memnon

Monuments & memorials
Malkata

Malkata

Ancient ruins & archaeological sites
Luxor West Bank Tombs

Luxor West Bank Tombs

Cemeteries & tombs
Mummification Museum

Mummification Museum

Historical Attractions
Luxor Souq

Luxor Souq

Local & craft markets
Alabaster Workshop

Alabaster Workshop

Arts and Entertainment Venues

Where to eat in Luxor

The places worth planning a meal around.

Sofra Restaurant

Sofra Restaurant

Egyptian · $$

★ 4.4 · 2,922 reviews

Nubian House Restaurant

Nubian House Restaurant

Egyptian · $$

★ 4.8 · 646 reviews

The Lantern Room

The Lantern Room

Egyptian · $$

★ 4.6 · 378 reviews

1886 Restaurant

1886 Restaurant

International · $$$

★ 3.9 · 72 reviews

Aisha's Cafe

Aisha's Cafe

Egyptian · $

Things to do in Luxor

Tours, cruises and experiences, rather than places to visit.

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