Luxor, Egypt

Luxor Travel Guide

Welcome to Luxor, the ancient city on the Nile River! This comprehensive guide will help you plan your trip to one of Egypt’s most fascinating destinations.

Places to Visit

Ancient Thebes (West Bank)

  • Valley of the Kings: Explore the final resting places of pharaohs from the New Kingdom period. Don’t miss the tomb of Tutankhamun, one of the most famous discoveries in history.
  • Valley of the Queens: A necropolis for queens and princesses of ancient Egypt, featuring stunning rock-cut tombs.
  • Temple of Hatshepsut: One of the few female pharaohs of Egypt, this temple is a must-visit to learn about her remarkable achievements.
  • Colossi of Memnon: Two massive stone statues that are all that remain of a temple dedicated to the god Amun.

Luxor City

  • Karnak Temple Complex: The second-largest ancient temple in the world, featuring impressive hypostyle halls and sanctuaries.
  • Luxor Temple: A sacred site for worshiping the gods, with stunning architecture and beautiful reliefs.
  • Museum of Mummification: Learn about the art of mummification through interactive exhibits and artifacts.

Other Attractions

  • Nile River Cruises: Take a relaxing boat ride along the Nile to see Luxor’s sights from a different perspective.
  • Luxor Market: A bustling marketplace where you can find souvenirs, try local street food, and interact with friendly vendors.
  • Hot Air Balloon Ride: See Luxor from above on an unforgettable hot air balloon adventure.

Activities

Cultural Experiences

  • Take a Cooking Class: Learn how to prepare traditional Egyptian dishes like koshari, falafel, or shawarma.
  • Attend a Sound and Light Show: A spectacular display of music and lights that brings ancient Luxor’s history to life.
  • Visit a Local Family: Get an insight into everyday Egyptian life by visiting a local family in their home.

Adventure Activities

  • Camel Ride: Explore the West Bank on camelback for a unique perspective on the ancient sites.
  • Hiking and Cycling: Discover hidden valleys and enjoy scenic views of Luxor’s surroundings.
  • Water Sports: Enjoy water activities like kayaking or paddle-boarding on the Nile.

Where to Eat

Local Cuisine

  • Abou El Sid: A popular eatery serving traditional Egyptian dishes at affordable prices.
  • Al-Azhar Restaurant: Experience authentic Middle Eastern cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
  • Koshari Abou Tarek: Try one of Luxor’s best-known koshari restaurants for a flavorful meal.

International Cuisine

  • The Gaucho Grill: Enjoy high-quality steak and seafood in an elegant setting.
  • La Maison: Savor French-inspired cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
  • Café 45: A popular spot for coffee, pastries, and light meals.

Where to Stay

Luxury Hotels

  • Four Seasons Hotel Luxor: Experience top-notch service and facilities in an opulent setting.
  • Ritz-Carlton Luxor: Enjoy upscale amenities and stunning views of the Nile.
  • The Nile Ritz-Carlton Cairo: While not directly in Luxor, this hotel offers a luxurious stay with excellent transportation links.

Mid-Range Hotels

  • Luxor Hotel: A comfortable option with a convenient location near the Nile.
  • Grand Hotel Luxor: Offers a relaxing atmosphere and access to various amenities.
  • Ibis Luxor: A budget-friendly choice with modern rooms and friendly staff.

Budget-Friendly Options

  • Nile Valley Hotel: A simple but clean and comfortable hotel for travelers on a budget.
  • Sofitel Luxor Hotel: While not directly in the city center, this hotel offers affordable rates and basic amenities.

Things to Know

Culture and Customs

  • Dress modestly: Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting mosques or temples.
  • Remove your shoes: Respect local customs by removing your shoes before entering mosques or homes.
  • Bargain politely: Haggling is a normal part of Egyptian culture, but be sure to do so respectfully.

Safety

  • Be mindful of scams: Be cautious of overly friendly locals who may try to scam you.
  • Keep valuables secure: Always keep your belongings safe and secure in public areas.
  • Respect local laws: Familiarize yourself with Egyptian law and respect its rules.

Transportation

Getting Around Luxor

  • Taxis: Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps like Uber for a convenient way to travel around the city.
  • Buses: Use public buses or hop-on-hop-off tourist buses to explore Luxor’s sights.
  • Walking and Cycling: Explore Luxor on foot or by bike for a more leisurely pace.

Transportation to/from Luxor

  • Flights: Fly into Luxor International Airport (LXR) from major cities worldwide.
  • Trains: Take the train from Cairo or other nearby cities to reach Luxor Station.
  • Buses: Use public buses or private companies for a more affordable option.

Tips and Tricks

General Tips

  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially in hot weather.
  • Respect local customs: Be considerate of local traditions and dress modestly when visiting mosques or temples.
  • Learn some Arabic phrases: Show respect for the culture by learning basic Arabic greetings like “Marhaba” (hello) and “Shukraan” (thank you).

Shopping Tips

  • Bargain politely: Engage in friendly haggling at markets to get a fair price for your souvenirs.
  • Check prices: Compare prices across vendors before making a purchase.
  • Support local artisans: Encourage local craftsmanship by buying handmade products.

Bonus Recommendations

Visit the nearby town of Esna

Take a day trip to the charming town of Esna, located about an hour’s drive from Luxor. Explore its ancient temple complex and enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Lake Nasser.

Take a Nile River cruise at night

Experience the magic of the Nile under the stars with a nighttime river cruise. Enjoy dinner while watching the city lights and taking in the tranquil atmosphere.

We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you plan your trip to Luxor, Egypt!