Things To Do
in Luxor
Luxor, in southern Egypt, is a living museum where the Nile threads between one temple and tomb after another. The East Bank hosts monumental temples like Karnak and Luxor, while the West Bank holds the necropolis of the pharaohs. This sun-soaked city blends ancient ruins with modern markets, riverfront cafes, and felucca sails.
Visitors should prepare for hot days and cooler evenings as the sun sets behind the temples.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a guided tour of the vast Karnak Temple Complex, one of the largest religious buildings in the world. As you walk through the majestic Hypostyle Hall, marvel at the towering columns adorned with intricate hieroglyphics. Don't miss the sacred lake, where priests once performed rituals to honor the gods.
After lunch at a nearby restaurant, head to the Luxor Museum, which houses a rich collection of artifacts from the ancient city. Explore the well-preserved mummies and statues that tell stories of the pharaohs and their reigns. Spend some time walking along the Nile Corniche, soaking in the beautiful views of the river.
In the evening, enjoy a traditional Egyptian dinner at a local restaurant, sampling dishes like koshari and stuffed pigeon. Afterward, take a leisurely felucca ride on the Nile at sunset, basking in the serene atmosphere as the sky turns vibrant shades of orange and pink. End your day with a stroll through the local market, where you can shop for souvenirs and enjoy the lively ambiance.
Embark on a journey to the Valley of the Kings, where you will explore the burial sites of some of Egypt's most famous pharaohs. Enter the tombs of Tutankhamun and Ramses VI, captivated by the ancient art and hieroglyphs that adorn their walls. Your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating stories about the discoveries made in this valley.
Enjoy lunch at a nearby café before visiting the nearby Temple of Hatshepsut, dedicated to Egypt’s first female pharaoh. Marvel at the stunning architecture of the temple, which is set against a dramatic cliff backdrop. Spend some time exploring the surrounding gardens and taking in the panoramic views.
After a day of exploration, return to Luxor for a relaxing evening. Treat yourself to a spa treatment at your hotel or a nearby wellness center to unwind. As night falls, consider attending the Sound and Light Show at the Karnak Temple, where you can experience the history of Luxor through captivating storytelling and illuminated monuments.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $40-120 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within Luxor | $2-6 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a café | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Some of the world's richest ancient sites in close proximity
- Stunning Nile setting with easily accessible temples
- Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere
- Walkable core areas and ample guided tour options
- Very hot summers and crowded peak seasons
- Occasional scams or overpriced services targeted at tourists
- Limited nightlife compared with bigger cities
- Some sites require long excursions and significant walking
- "Salam alaykum" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Min fadlak / Min fadlik" - Please (male/female)
- "Kam althaman?" - How much is this?
- "Ayna al-hammam?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Luxor
Visit one of these nice places.
A vast temple precinct with towering columns, sunlit courtyards, and the Hypostyle Hall; dramatic light at sunrise or sunset.
Temple on the East Bank featuring towering pylons, statues, and obelisks; beautiful when lit at golden hour.
Cliffside tombs carved into the Theban hills; lighting varies by tomb and time of day, creating moody interior shots.
White limestone terraces set against desert cliffs; especially striking at dawn light.
Two giant seated statues along the riverfront; great for silhouettes at sunset.
Palm-lined riverfront with feluccas and soft reflections of sunset over the water.
Ridge viewpoints above the Theban Necropolis offering panoramic photos of temples and the Nile.
Food in Luxor
Luxor Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
An iconic mix of rice, lentils, pasta, chickpeas, fried onions, and tomato sauce; widely available at street stalls and small eateries.
Must-Try!
Creamy stewed fava beans with olive oil, lemon, and spices; popular breakfast at traditional cafés.
Green leafy soup served with chicken or rabbit and bread; a staple in many local eateries.
Vegetables such as zucchini or grape leaves stuffed with herbed rice; common in family-run restaurants.
Fresh Nile fish, typically tilapia or sea bream, grilled with herbs and lemon, often served with rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market near the river with stalls selling spices, herbs, grains, and street bites such as falafel and fuul.
Market close to Karnak Temple with vendors selling souvenirs, fruits, nuts, and local snacks; great for tasting on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cover shoulders and knees; remove hats when entering sacred spaces; inquire about photography permissions at mosques or churches.
Egyptians are friendly and polite; greet with a smile and say Salam; modest conversation and respect go a long way.
Safety
Tipping in Luxor
Ensure a smooth experience
Tiny tips are customary: 5–10% in cafes or for good service, 10–15% in restaurants, a small tip to hotel porters and guides; carry small Egyptian pounds for local tipping.
Cash in Egyptian pounds is widely used. Major hotels and many restaurants accept credit cards, but many smaller shops and street stalls prefer cash. ATMs are common in the city center.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March–May brings mild to warm weather (20–30°C). Pleasant for temple visits and outdoor photography; watch for pollen and crowds near holidays.
June–August can reach 35–40°C with strong sun. Plan early-morning and late-afternoon activities, stay hydrated, and wear sun protection.
September–November remains warm but gradually cooler; excellent conditions for outdoor exploration and photography with fewer crowds.
December–February offers cooler days (15–25°C) and cooler nights; comfortable for long temple days and river evenings.
Luxor at Night
Hiking in Luxor
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rugged desert hills behind the West Bank offering panoramic views of the Nile and Theban Necropolis; subject to heat and proper footwear.
Less crowded desert ridges with scenic overlooks of temples and tombs; best with a guide and adequate water.
Airports
How to reach Luxor by plane.
Main gateway for international and domestic flights; located a short drive east of the city center; taxis and ride-hailing options readily available.
Nearby airport with connections to Cairo and regional destinations; longer drive to Luxor but convenient for northern routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority population with a mix of rural and urban communities; predominantly Sunni Muslims with a Coptic Christian minority.
Culturally rich communities in southern Egypt influencing crafts, music, and language in the region.
Seasonal visitors from around the world and a small expat presence supporting guides, hotels, and attractions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, widely watched and played in clubs and schools.
Leisure and club-level tennis available at hotels and sports centers.
Popular tourist activities along the Nile and desert outskirts; often offered through tour operators.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Luxor.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes are vegetarian or can be made vegetarian. Look for koshari, ta'ameya (Egyptian falafel), mahshi, and salads; ask for no meat or dairy when needed.