Luxor, the city that makes it feel like time travel is real, where, as you walk the streets, you become a part of the Ancient Egyptian era. Sitting on the East Bank of the Nile River, it boasts some of the world's most well-preserved and precious monuments. Known as the open-air museum, it really has the unique ability to, naturally and genuinely, take you back in time.
With so much to offer and so much to explore, it can be overwhelming knowing what is truly a must-see and what is an added bonus, so we collated the top places to visit so you don’t have to think about it.
With some of the popular spots and some hidden gems of Luxor, it is a list compiled of places that history lovers, explorers, and culture enthusiasts will love!
Starting with the Popular Places:
Karnak Temple
Developed over a span of 2,000 years by different Pharaohs, this corner of Luxor is one of the largest and most important religious centres in Egypt. With 134 columns in the Great Hypostyle Hall alone, some still in pristine condition, it is a true wonder of the world.
Marvel at the Obelisks of Hatshepsut and Thutmose I, walk down the Avenue of the Sphinx, and observe the sacred lake. Everything here is bigger and better than your imagination can comprehend – and to think; the Ancient Egyptians built all of this with hand-held, non-electric tools… crazy!
Karnak Temple
Luxor Temple
Unlike other temples that were dedicated to gods, Luxor Temple was used for the coronation of kings and has a distinctly regal aura. This temple is located in the heart of Luxor, and you could say it IS the heart of Luxor. Its most stunning views are to be seen at night when it is lit up by the various spotlights under the star-lit sky.
You can tick both Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple off in one hit, as they are connected by the Avenue of the Sphinx – take a stroll down ancient lanes and imagine the ceremonial processions that used to take place here. It features colossal statues of Ramses II, intricately detailed hieroglyphs, and a unique blend of Egyptian, Roman, and Islamic cultures.
Luxor Temple
Hatshepsut’s Mortuary Temple (Deir el-Bahari)
The proof that women have been holding their own since the beginning of time. The only temple to be carved into a whole side of a cliff, this temple brings a whole new level of respect and wonder to not only the Egyptian builders of the time but also the strength and archaeological designs completed.
Not only is the temple itself embedded into the face of a cliff, but it even boasts three separate levels – amazing! It really is a stop that takes your breath away and awes you with wonder and amazement.
Hatshepsut set out to make her mark on history, and she certainly did. She made it known that she was one of the few women to make it as Pharaoh, and although the statues in her temple depict her as a male figure, you can see the woman’s touch throughout.
She is the original ‘independent woman’, being close enough to the Valley of the Kings that she is not segregated, but far enough away that her temple is her own.
Hatshepsut Temple
Valley of the Kings
Being close to Hatshepsut’s temple, you can do this straight after or before. The final resting place of Tutankhamun, this dry, mountainous area hides over 60 tombs, many of which are decorated with vivid wall paintings that have survived for over 3,000 years. Although you could make it a personal goal to try and see them all, unfortunately, not all tombs are safe to visit, and the ones that are, are not all open at the same time.
To preserve the genuine conditions as much as possible, there are only a few open at a time. To help care for the conditions and control crowds, some of the tomb tickets are an extra charge – so be sure to check which tombs are available on the day of your visit and which tombs you may need to pay extra for.
Side Note: The Valley of the Kings’ terrain is unstable, and most tombs are located deep underground, accessed by many steep stairs. It is important to check accessibility for those with mobility issues.
Valley of the Kings
Colossi of Memnon
This stop is usually included in most Luxor tours; it is free to visit and popular amongst tourists. Here, you will see two very large statues that used to be the entrance to a mortuary temple. Although the temple itself is no longer there, the statues still proudly stand – like a captain with their ship, they stand firm.
Marvel at the sheer size of these statues, with a perfect photo opportunity and a moment to take a breather from all the walking and wandering. We recommend doing this just before or after the Valley of the Kings. Even if you didn’t want to get out of the car, these statues can be seen clearly from the road, but there is nothing like seeing how small an adult man or woman looks next to just the base of these statues!
Colossi of Memnon
Hot Air Balloon Ride over Luxor
Although not a destination in itself but an activity to do, there is no better way than to see the ancient city and all its wonders in a breathtaking, magical hot air balloon ride. Best done at sunrise, when the city wakes up as the golden rays of the sun light each corner. Watch the city go from dark to light, changing different shades of orange, and lose yourself in the aura of amazement.
What a brilliant opportunity to get some unique photos and to have a unique story to tell when you return home!
Side Note: This is a popular activity to do, and since your photos and experience can be affected by crowded skies or baskets, it is recommended to check with your guide how busy it is at the time of your visit. This trip is also weather-dependent, so it may or may not be available at the time of your visit, even if pre-booked.
Hot air balloon tours in Luxor
Now, onto some Hidden Gems or Less Popular Destinations:
Medinet Habu
This well-preserved mortuary temple of Ramses III is filled with colourful carvings and massive reliefs depicting battle scenes and ceremonies. This location boasts incredible details in the walls and well-preserved, bright paintings.
An added bonus is that since this is a hidden gem and most people either do not know about it or prefer to visit the Valley of the Kings, it means it is generally less touristy, the crowds are less, and the experience is less rushed.
Madinet Habu
Luxor Museum
You would think that this would be a popular destination; however, with most people wanting to visit the actual temples or tombs, the museum usually gets overlooked. However, if you are travelling with young children, the elderly, less mobile, or simply prefer walking around in the air conditioning rather than the outside air, this destination may be perfect for you!
Still offering a genuine experience, with statues from Karnak Temple and many other genuine artefacts, you will not miss out on the ‘awe factor’ felt at the temples themselves.
Luxor Museum
Explore the Souks and Local Life
With all of these ancient wonders, it is easy to forget that Luxor is a normal city and has normal things to do and see. Take a felucca and enjoy lunch on the Nile, visit the souks and bargain for a good deal on a papyrus, talk to the locals, taste local Egyptian food, and see the best of both the Ancient Egyptian and Modern Egyptian cultures in one visit.
Nile Felucca in Luxor
With so much more to do, these are just a few, but with these destinations, prepare for your mind to be blown, your imagination to be awakened, and your love for history to be ignited. Explore the roots of Egyptian culture and the wonders of one of the first and oldest civilisations of the world.
