Top things to do in Luxor

Evan Kingsley wrote on 9/24/2023. Last updated: 11/24/2024

Best places to visit in Luxor

Luxor city is a treasure trove of ancient Egyptian history and grandeur, breathing life into the distant past, teetering on the edges of both the Nile River and our imaginations. Prepare to be amazed at every turn, as I lead you through this awe-inspiring journey.

The Valley of the Kings

Finishing first on our list is none other than the "Valley of the Kings". A UNESCO World Heritage site and the monumental resting place for some of ancient Egypt's most illustrious Pharaohs, it's hardly a surprise that the Valley of the Kings tops our list. This burial site of epic proportions houses 63 startlingly well-preserved royal tombs, each more elaborate than the last. From the tomb of the legendary King Tutankhamun – yes, that King Tut – to Ramses the Great, you'll feel you're walking in the footsteps of divinities. Quite a stirring sensation, I must say!

Karnak Temple Complex

One cannot simply visit Luxor and skip over the Karnak Temple Complex. You'd be sorely missing out on a jaw-dropping reminder of the grandeur of Pharaohs-Ancient-Egypt-style. Sprawling over a magnificent 200 acres, this complex of magnificently decorated pylons, obelisks, and chapels dedicated to the god Amun is an absolute must-visit. An evening visit would treat you to a dazzling display of light and sound, reviving the drama of ancient Egyptian history right under the starlit sky.

Must see places in Luxor

Luxor Temple

Among the stunning artifacts strewn across Luxor, the Luxor Temple is a shining star demanding attention. Built by amen and his rivals, this spectacular temple stands prominent in the heart of Luxor city. As you stroll through the grand entrance flanked by giant statues of Ramses II, you'll be stepping on the Avenue of Sphinxes that once connected Karnak and Luxor temples over an impressive 3-kilometer course. Not a journey for the faint of heart, but a sight and experience you won't readily forget.

The Luxor Museum

Ladies and Gents, do not underestimate the value of a good museum! And the Luxor Museum is more than just good. Huddled between Karnak and Luxor temples, it's a quiet pilgrimage for history lovers and passionate archeology buffs. With a polished collection of artifacts, statues, and stelae – carefully curated and presented in a modern, air-conditioned setting — it provides a much-needed respite from the heat and hustle of the city while offering a deep dive into Egypt’s gloriously rich past.

So, dust off your fedora, pack that sense of wonder, and prepare for a remarkable jaunt through Luxor. After all, there's no fairer land where the past meets the present under the cloak of millennium-old mysteries. Luxor awaits, my gallant explorers!


Evan Kingsley

Evan Kingsley

Hey, I’m Evan! Even though I’ve been bitten by a piranha, left stranded in the Sahara when my camel ditched me, and even spent a night in a Bhutanese jail over a supposedly stolen fruit (I swear I didn’t take it!), I still love traveling so much I don’t think I’ll ever stop. With over 130 countries under my belt, I’m always on the lookout for the next wild adventure… hopefully with fewer bites, camel betrayals, and misunderstandings over fruit!

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