Traveler's Toolkit

Essential Guide

Everything you need to know before you go.
Daily Cost
$25 - $70
Best Time
Oct - Mar
Visa Policy
On Arrival / e-Visa
Time Zone
GMT+2

Luxor is located on the banks of the Nile in Upper Egypt. It is built upon the ancient city of Thebes. The East Bank features the Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple complexes. The West Bank contains the Valley of the Kings, holding 63 known tombs including that of Tutankhamun. The Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut is carved directly into the surrounding cliffs.

The modern city includes a waterfront Corniche. Sunrise hot-air balloon rides over the West Bank and felucca sailing on the Nile are primary attractions. A standard 3-day itinerary covers the major archaeological sites. The sheer volume of monuments justifies Luxor's reputation as an open-air museum.

Luxor International Airport handles domestic flights from Cairo and Hurghada, plus seasonal European charters. Overnight sleeper trains from Cairo take 9 to 10 hours. First-class cabins include meals. Daytime trains require up to 11 hours. Nile cruise ships departing from Aswan dock directly at the Luxor Corniche.

The East Bank contains luxury properties and mid-range hotels along the Corniche. The West Bank offers smaller boutique hotels and guesthouses, placing visitors closer to the early-opening archaeological sites. Multi-night Nile cruise ships serve as floating accommodation. Room rates range from $10 for budget options to over $150 for luxury hotels.

The local ferry connects the East and West Banks for EGP 5. Private motorboats cross the river for EGP 20 to 30. Bicycle hire on the West Bank costs EGP 50 to 100 per day. Traditional horse carriages are available but require firm price negotiation. Ride-hailing apps have limited coverage compared to Cairo.

Archeological sites require tickets. The Valley of the Kings base ticket costs EGP 400 and covers 3 tombs. Tutankhamun's tomb requires a separate EGP 400 ticket. Karnak Temple entry is EGP 300. Comprehensive Luxor Passes cost $100 to $200 and cover all sites for 5 days. These passes are sold at the Luxor Museum.

Step Into the Ancient World of Luxor

Home to legendary temples, royal tombs, and the Valley of the Kings, Luxor offers a journey through the heart of ancient Egyptian civilization along the Nile River.