The Ultimate Luxor Travel Guide: 15 Best Things to Do in the World’s Greatest Open-Air Museum

Luxor is a city that feels like a dream. In ancient times, it was called Thebes. Today, it stands as the heart of Egypt’s history. For travelers booking through MSM Travel Egypt, this city offers a mix of giant temples and hidden tombs. Whether you are looking for adventure or peace, this guide covers the best things to do in Luxor.

1. Explore the Karnak Temple Complex

First, you must visit Karnak Temple. This site is not just one building. Instead, it is a massive city of shrines and towers. Most importantly, it was built over 1,500 years by many different pharaohs.

The Great Hypostyle Hall

When you enter the hall, you will see 134 giant columns. They are so tall that they seem to touch the sky. Furthermore, the carvings on these walls tell stories of ancient battles and gods. Because of its size, it remains one of the most famous sites in Egypt.

The Sacred Lake and Sound Show

Additionally, you should walk to the Sacred Lake. In the past, priests used this water for holy rituals. If you stay until the evening, you can watch the Sound and Light Show. Consequently, you will hear the history of Luxor while the ruins glow under the stars.

2. Walk Through Luxor Temple by Night

Next on your list is Luxor Temple. It is located right in the middle of the modern city. Therefore, it is very easy to reach. Although it is beautiful during the day, it is much better at night.

As the sun sets, the lights turn on. This makes the statues of Ramesses II look alive. Moreover, you can see the Avenue of Sphinxes. This long path once connected Luxor Temple to Karnak. In fact, you can now walk along this ancient road just like the kings did thousands of years ago.

3. Descend into the Valley of the Kings

The Valley of the Kings is located on the West Bank of the Nile. This is where the pharaohs were buried in hidden tombs. Because they wanted to protect their gold, they built these tombs deep inside the mountains.

• Colorful Tombs: Your entry ticket lets you see three tombs. For example, the Tomb of Ramesses IV has very bright colors.

• King Tutankhamun: You can also pay extra to see the tomb of Tutankhamun. Although it is small, his mummy is still kept there.

• Amazing Art: In addition, the Tomb of Seti I is famous for its detailed art. However, it requires a separate ticket because it is so well-preserved.

4. Marvel at the Temple of Hatshepsut

Another highlight is the Temple of Hatshepsut. It looks very different from other temples in Luxor. For instance, it has three levels that are built directly into a limestone cliff.

Hatshepsut was a very strong female pharaoh. Therefore, her temple is a symbol of her power. While you walk up the ramps, you will see statues of her as a god. Additionally, the views of the desert from the top level are truly stunning.

5. Soar High in a Hot Air Balloon

If you want a real adventure, you should try a hot air balloon ride. You must wake up very early before the sun rises. Nevertheless, the experience is worth it.

As you float over the West Bank, you can see the green Nile on one side and the yellow desert on the other. Below you, the temples look like tiny toys. This is surely the best way to see the Valley of the Kings from a new perspective.

6. Visit the Colossi of Memnon

Before you leave the West Bank, you will pass two giant statues. These are the Colossi of Memnon. They represent Amenhotep III. Even though they are damaged, they are still nearly 18 meters tall. Because they are right by the road, they make for a great and quick photo stop.

7. Discover the Artisans at Deir el-Medina

Most people only see the tombs of kings. However, you should also visit the Valley of the Artisans. This is where the workers lived.

The tombs here are smaller, but the art is very different. Instead of just gods, you see scenes of daily life. For example, you can see drawings of people farming and eating. Thus, it gives you a better idea of how real people lived in ancient Egypt.

8. Experience the Grandeur of Medinet Habu

Medinet Habu is a hidden gem in Luxor. It was the mortuary temple of Ramesses III. Because it is not as crowded as Karnak, you can explore it in peace.

Furthermore, the carvings here are very deep. This has helped the colors stay bright for thousands of years. If you love photography, this temple is perfect for you.

9. Sail the Nile on a Traditional Felucca

After a long day of walking, you might feel tired. In that case, you should hire a felucca. This is a traditional wooden sailboat.

Because it has no engine, the trip is very quiet. You only hear the sound of the water. Usually, people go for a sail during the sunset. Afterward, you can stop at Banana Island to eat fresh fruit and enjoy the nature of the Nile.

10. Visit the Luxor Museum

For those who want to learn more, the Luxor Museum is excellent. It is located on the East Bank Corniche. Unlike the busy museum in Cairo, this one is very organized.

Inside, you will see beautiful statues and jewelry found in local temples. Additionally, there is a Mummification Museum nearby. Here, you can learn exactly how the ancient Egyptians preserved bodies.

11. The Ramesseum: A Giant’s Memory

The Ramesseum was built by Ramesses the Great. Although much of it is in ruins, it is still impressive. Specifically, you can see the giant broken statue of the king on the ground. This site inspired famous poems about the fall of great empires. Therefore, it is a very poetic place to visit.

12. The Valley of the Queens and Nefertari

While the kings had their valley, the queens had their own. The Valley of the Queens is home to the Tomb of Nefertari.

Most experts agree that this is the most beautiful tomb in Egypt. The walls are covered in fine details and vibrant reds and blues. Consequently, only a few people are allowed inside each day to protect the art. If you have the chance, you must see it.

13. Day Trip to Dendera Temple

If you have more time in your Luxor travel plan, you should go to Dendera. It is a short drive north of the city.

The temple is dedicated to Hathor, the goddess of love. The ceiling is the best part. It is painted with stars and the zodiac. Because it was cleaned recently, the colors look like they were painted yesterday.

14. Shop at the Local Luxor Souq

No trip to Egypt is complete without shopping. The Luxor Souq is a busy street full of life.

You can find many things here, such as:

• Spices: Fresh saffron and cumin.

• Clothes: Soft Egyptian cotton shirts.

• Gifts: Small statues made of alabaster stone.

However, remember to haggle. It is part of the fun! Most sellers expect you to ask for a lower price.

15. Eat Traditional Egyptian Food

Finally, you must taste the local food. Luxor has many great restaurants. You should try Koshary, which is a mix of rice, pasta, and lentils. It is very filling and cheap.

Also, try fresh Aish Baladi (bread). It is often baked in wood ovens and tastes amazing with tahini. For a special treat, ask for grilled pigeon, which is a local favorite.

Travel Tips from MSM Travel Egypt

To make your travel easier, we have listed some important tips below:

Plan Your Trip with MSM Travel Egypt

In conclusion, Luxor is a place of magic and mystery. At MSM Travel Egypt, we want to show you the best of our country. We offer private tours, Nile cruises, and expert guides.

Contact us today to book your Luxor adventure!