Luxor
Luxor is essentially the world's greatest open-air museum, home to more ancient monuments per square mile than anywhere on Earth. Egypt's weak pound and low local prices make it one of the most rewarding and affordable destinations for history lovers.
Why go to Luxor
Karnak Temple Complex
An awe-inspiring forest of colossal columns and obelisks built over 2,000 years by generations of pharaohs.
Valley of the Kings
Descend into the painted tombs of Tutankhamun, Ramesses VI, and other god-kings buried in the desert cliffs.
Luxor Temple
Dramatically illuminated at night, this riverside temple is one of the most romantic ancient sites on the planet.
Hatshepsut's Mortuary Temple (Deir el-Bahari)
A stunning three-tiered colonnaded temple carved into golden limestone cliffs on the West Bank.
Luxor Museum
A small but world-class collection of New Kingdom masterpieces, including two royal mummies, in a beautifully curated space.
Make it real
Add your details for real flights and an exact budget you can share.
Good to know in Luxor
- Transit: Microbuses and shared taxis cover the East Bank for under $0.30; cross to the West Bank by local ferry for about $0.15 rather than taking tourist boats at ten times the price.
- Tipping: Baksheesh (small tips) is deeply embedded in Egyptian culture, carry small bills and budget $1-2 per guide interaction, restroom attendant, or temple guard who opens a special room.
- Tap water: Do not drink tap water in Luxor; buy large 1.5-liter bottled water from supermarkets for $0.25 rather than paying hotel or restaurant prices.
- Free-entry days: Egypt's government occasionally offers free entry to state monuments on national holidays such as April 25 (Sinai Liberation Day) and October 6 (Armed Forces Day), check the Ministry of Tourism announcements before your trip.