Luxor - Discovering Egypt

Travelling to Luxor

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Luxor, a pretty good destination in Egypt (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Luxor and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Luxor, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Egypt, here's everything to know about Luxor for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Luxor

Luxor is a city in Egypt, known for its temples and ancient ruins. It is located on the east bank of the Nile River and was once the site of the ancient city of Thebes, capital of the New Kingdom. It is famous for its temples, including the Temple of Karnak and the Temple of Luxor, and its many tombs and burial sites, including the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens. Luxor is also a popular destination for hot air balloon rides over the city and the surrounding desert.

What to visit in Luxor

1. Karnak Temple Complex: Karnak is a vast temple complex in Luxor that was built over a period of 1500 years. It is the largest ancient religious site in the world, covering an area of 2 sq km. Karnak is famous for its impressive pylons, hypostyle halls, and sacred lake.
2. Valley of the Kings: The Valley of the Kings is a burial ground for pharaohs and nobles from the 18th, 19th, and 20th dynasties. It contains over 60 tombs, including the tomb of Tutankhamun, the only tomb that was found intact. 3. Luxor Temple: Luxor Temple is a large temple complex located on the east bank of the Nile River. It was built during the New Kingdom and dedicated to the god Amun. The temple is famous for its colossal statues and well-preserved avenue of sphinxes. 4. Temple of Hatshepsut: The Temple of Hatshepsut is a mortuary temple dedicated to Hatshepsut, one of the few female pharaohs in ancient Egypt. It is located on the west bank of the Nile and is known for its impressive terraced design and stunning views of the surrounding area.
5. Colossi of Memnon: The Colossi of Memnon are two giant statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III that are over 3,400 years old. The statues are located on the west bank of the Nile and are the only remaining parts of a large temple complex that was destroyed over time. 6. Luxor Museum: The Luxor Museum is located on the east bank of the Nile and contains a stunning collection of artifacts from ancient Egypt. The museum has over 20,000 pieces on display, including sarcophagi, statues, and jewelry.
7. Medinet Habu: Medinet Habu is a temple complex located on the west bank of the Nile. It was built during the New Kingdom and is dedicated to the god Amun. The temple is famous for its well-preserved reliefs, including scenes of battle and triumph.
8. Ramesseum: The Ramesseum is a mortuary temple dedicated to the pharaoh Ramesses II. It is located on the west bank of the Nile and contains impressive statues and reliefs depicting the life of Ramesses and his military conquests.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Egypt, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Luxor.

When to go on holiday to Luxor

The best time to visit Luxor is during the winter months, between November and February when the temperatures are milder and more pleasant for outdoor activities. During this time, the average temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Avoid visiting Luxor during the summer months between June and September when temperatures can soar to 40°C (104°F) making sightseeing and outdoor activities difficult.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Luxor

There are several transportation options to get to Luxor, Egypt: 1. By Air: Luxor International Airport is well-connected to various domestic and international airports, and it's the most convenient way to reach Luxor. You can book flights with airlines like Egypt Air, Turkish Airlines, Emirates, and many more.
2. By Train: The train system in Egypt is extensive, and most trains pass through Luxor, so you can take an overnight train from Cairo or Aswan to reach Luxor.
3. By Bus: You can travel to Luxor from other nearby cities by bus. There are various bus services available, such as Superjet, Go Bus, and Upper Egypt Bus Company.
4. By Car: You can rent a car from Cairo or other cities and drive to Luxor. However, it's important to keep in mind that driving in Egypt can be challenging, and you'll need an international driver's license.
Whichever mode of transportation you choose, make sure to research the best routes and schedules according to your needs and preferences.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Luxor, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Luxor

Here are some typical foods of Luxor, Egypt with a short description for each: 1. Kushari: This dish consists of a mix of rice, macaroni, lentils, chickpeas, and tomato sauce topped with fried onions.
2. Ful Medames: This breakfast dish is made with mashed fava beans, olive oil, lemon juice, and spices. It is usually eaten with bread and topped with vegetables.
3. Kofta: Kofta is a Middle Eastern meatball made with minced beef or lamb mixed with spices like coriander, cumin, and parsley. It is often served with rice, bread, and a side salad.
4. Shawarma: This Levantine meat dish is made by roasting shaved meat (often lamb or chicken) on a spit and then slicing it off and serving it in a wrap or pita bread with vegetables and sauces.
5. Fatta: This dish is typically made with bread, rice, and lamb that has been cooked in broth with spices. It is then topped with yogurt and fried onions.
6. Molokhia: Molokhia is a green leafy vegetable that is similar in texture to spinach. It is typically cooked with garlic, coriander, and other spices and served with rice or bread.
7. Umm Ali: This dessert is a popular Egyptian pastry made with puff pastry, milk, almonds, and raisins. It is often served warm and topped with whipped cream.
You can find general info about typical foods in Egypt here.

Is Luxor an expensive destination for tourists?

The cost of a trip to Luxor, Egypt can vary depending on the type of traveler you are and the activities you plan to do. However, in general, compared to other destinations, Luxor is considered relatively affordable. Accommodation in Luxor can be affordable, with budget hotels and hostels starting at around $10-15 USD per night, while mid-range options would cost upwards of $30-40 USD per night. Food and drinks in local restaurants and cafes can also be affordable with meals beginning at around $4-5 USD per person.
Luxor's main attractions, such as the Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple, have admission fees that can be somewhat pricey (around $10-20 USD per site), but it is possible to explore other temples throughout the city like Luxor Temple, for free.
Overall, while Luxor may not be the cheapest destination in Egypt, it can still be an affordable option for travelers.

Where to find accomodation in Luxor

The best areas to find accommodation in Luxor, Egypt are along the Nile River, especially in the areas of East Bank and West Bank. East Bank is generally more developed and offers more luxury hotels, while the West Bank is quieter and more affordable. Some of the popular areas along the East Bank include Luxor City, Karnak, and the Luxor Museum. On the West Bank, areas like Medinet Habu, Deir el-Medina, and the Valley of the Kings are popular among visitors.
You can check hotel prices at Luxor here:
Booking.com

Is Luxor a safe destination for tourists?

Luxor is generally a safe place for tourists, but like any other tourist destination, it is important to take necessary precautions to ensure your safety. Petty theft can occur in tourist areas or crowded places, so it is advisable to keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings. It is also recommended to avoid traveling alone at night and to only use licensed taxis or transportation services. Additionally, it is important to respect local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Overall, with common sense and precautions, visitors can enjoy a safe and memorable trip to Luxor.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Egypt here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Luxor.

What type of travelers will enjoy Luxor the most?

Luxor, Egypt is a great destination for all types of travelers, including couples, young people, and families. Here are some of the highlights that each type of traveler may enjoy: - Couples may enjoy taking a romantic hot air balloon ride over the beautiful temples and landscapes of Luxor. They can also take a relaxing river cruise along the Nile or enjoy a sunset felucca ride. Couples can also explore the beautiful temples and tombs, such as the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and Luxor Temple, and appreciate the rich history and culture of the region.
- Young people who enjoy adventure and fun may enjoy exploring the local markets and trying local street food. They may also enjoy trying new water sports, such as jet skiing or paddleboarding, on the Nile River. Young people can also explore some of the more off the beaten path attractions, such as the Habu Temple or the Colossi of Memnon.
- Families can enjoy visiting Luxor’s many family-friendly attractions, such as taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through the old town, visiting the Luxor Museum, or attending a traditional Egyptian dance show. Families can also explore the beautiful temples and tombs, and learn about the rich history and culture of the region. There are also many tour operators that offer family-friendly tours and activities, such as treasure hunts and cultural workshops.

How to get around Luxor

Luxor is a relatively small city, and there are several modes of transportation available to move around the city. Taxi, bus and horse-drawn carriages are the common transport options in the city. Taxis are the most convenient and comfortable mode of transportation, particularly for tourists who are unfamiliar with the area. Buses are relatively cheaper to use, but they can be crowded and uncomfortable. Horse-drawn carriages are a unique and traditional way to explore the city but can be more expensive than taxis or buses. Additionally, renting a bicycle or motorbike is also an option, but it can be challenging due to the roads' traffic conditions.

What to see around Luxor

Sure, here are a few nice places to visit in a day trip from Luxor: 1. Valley of the Kings - This is a tomb complex on the West bank of the Nile river. It is the burial site of many pharaohs of the New Kingdom of Egypt and is one of the most famous sites in Egypt.
2. Temple of Karnak - This is a vast complex of temples, chapels, pylons, and other buildings located in Luxor. It is considered one of the largest religious complexes in the world.
3. Temple of Hatshepsut - This is a mortuary temple dedicated to the Queen Hatshepsut, located on the west bank of the Nile river. The temple is famous for its unique architecture.
4. Luxor Museum - This museum displays a great collection of artifacts including statues, pottery, and jewelry from the pharaonic period.
5. Colossi of Memnon - These two massive stone statues of the pharaoh Amenhotep III are located on the west bank of the Nile river.
6. Temple of Medinet Habu - This is a large temple complex on the west bank of the Nile river. It served as the mortuary temple of Ramses III.
7. Abydos - Abydos is an ancient city located about 165 km north-west of Luxor. It is known for its well-preserved ancient temples and tombs.
Hope this helps!
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