Your must-have guide to visiting Luxor

Organizing your visit

Top attractions

Top attractions

Luxor is a treasure trove of ancient Egyptian wonders, split across the East and West Banks of the Nile. A day trip here offers a glimpse into pharaohs’ tombs and grand temples. With sites scattered along both riverbanks, planning is key.

Travel logistics

The best way to explore Luxor’s sites is by booking a guided day tour. Tours typically include air-conditioned transfers between East and West Bank attractions, expert guides to explain the history, and hotel pick-ups for convenience. If you prefer to explore independently, trains and buses connect Luxor with Cairo or Aswan, while taxis and ferries link the East and West Banks. Traffic can build near major temples, and queues at tombs are common, so early starts are recommended. For a smooth day, tackle the furthest West Bank sites first, then return to the East Bank for an afternoon visit to Karnak or a stroll along the Nile.

Handy tips

• Book your guided Luxor day tour in advance to secure entry to the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, and other key attractions.
• Dress modestly when visiting temples—women should wear long skirts or trousers and tops that cover shoulders, while men should wear long trousers and sleeved shirts.
• Follow your guide’s instructions inside tombs, and remember that photography may be restricted in some areas.
• Respect the ancient sites by avoiding touching reliefs or carvings, and stay on marked paths at all times.
• Tipping is customary—consider around 100–200 EGP per person for your guide, depending on the service.

• Choose your starting point: If you’re already in Luxor, you can choose from half-day or full-day tours, depending on how much you want to see. Travelers from Hurghada or Cairo can only book full-day tours, which include round-trip transfers (flights are included from Cairo).
• Pick your sightseeing focus: East Bank tours explore Karnak and Luxor Temples, while West Bank tours visit the Valley of the Kings, Temple of Hatshepsut, and Colossi of Memnon. Full-day tours combine both banks for a complete experience.
• Boat rides on Nile tours: Full-day tours from Hurghada and Cairo include a scenic Nile boat ride, adding a relaxing way to cross between East and West Banks.
• Check inclusions and upgrades: All tours include round-trip hotel transfers in A/C vehicles, lunch, and an expert Egyptologist guide. Half-day tours also provide multilingual commentary (French, English, Spanish, Italian, German). Optional upgrades vary by package and can include entry to specific attractions or private guided tours.
• Group size & comfort: Private tours offer a more relaxed pace, while larger shared tours are budget-friendly but may be less flexible.

Tips from Luxor locals

• Sip tea or coffee at a local café: Skip tourist-heavy spots; try small street-side cafés for authentic Egyptian flavors and light pastries.
• Carry small bills: Many sites request a cash offering (3–5 EGP) for entry or tips.
• Dress modestly for temples: Cover shoulders and knees to respect religious customs.
• Visit Souq side alleys: Quiet lanes offer unique souvenirs and local snacks away from the main crowds.
• Plan your visit between March–May or September–October: Pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds make sightseeing easier.
• Try seasonal local treats: Sample fresh dates, sugarcane juice, or falafel from street vendors for an authentic taste of Luxor.
• Take advantage of golden hour at Luxor Temple: Evening light enhances photos and crowds thin out for a more peaceful visit.
• Accessibility note: Most coaches on guided tours are wheelchair-accessible; confirm when booking if needed.