Top Things to Do in the Luxor | Must-See Attractions & Experiences

Plan Your Travel To Luxor

Places To Visit In Luxor

Memnon Colossi

The two large statues known as the Memnon Colossi that used to guard the temple of Amenhotep III are a must visit, merely for their sheer size and their ancient history or roots. Each of these two statues weighs roughly 700 tons and have been made using quartz sandstone. Over time, their facial structures and discerning crowns have been destroyed. However, there is no denying that they still look imposing and majestic. If you look closer, you will find carvings near the legs of these statues, representing Amenhotep IIIÍs wife and mother. Read More

The Karnak temple complex, in Luxor, is an archaeological site that was built primarily between the 12th and 20th centuries. At its pinnacle, it was the largest and most significant religious complex in medieval Egypt. With four Pylons, The Great Hypostyle Hall and the Triumphal Inscription of Sheshonq I, The Temple of Ramses II and the Great Court, it will easily take 3-4 hours for tourists to fully explore the complex. The Temple of Amun-Ra in the complex is one of the most prominent religious structures ever constructed in ancient Egypt. It remains relevant to date owing to the Karnak’s enormous size and the numerous intricate architectural, artistic, and literary features that make it a must-visit in Egypt. Read More

Mummification Museum in Downtown Luxor presents illustrations of the entire process of mummification. The objects used for mummification, mummies of both humans and animals, and information on what kind of items used to be buried earlier along with the dead.

The mortuary temple of Hatshepsut, is a significant archaeological site, located across the city of Luxor. It was constructed during the reign of Pharaoh Hatshepsut of the 18th Dynasty of Egypt and is regarded as an architectural marvel. Inside this temple complex, tourists can see the lower court, the central court, the chapel of Anubis and experience the punt expedition routes that were an important aspect of 18th century Egypt. Hatshepsut, after whom the temple has been dedicated, was the fifth ruler of Egypt's eighteenth dynasty. She was Egypt's second female pharaoh who has been identified. Read More

Recognised as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Valley of the Kings is nestled in the heart of Theban Necropolis along the west bank of the Nile. The Valley of the Kings, also known as the Place of Truth, contains 63 exquisite royal tombs from the New Kingdom, all very distinct from one another. Visitors get guided tours of the tombs open for tourists and can also engage in watching a documentary on Carter's discovery of the Tomb of Tutankhamun. Read More

The Abu Haggag Mosque is located on the East bank of the Nile. The mosque is built over the ancient structure of the Luxor temple. It remains active as a place of worship, making it the oldest building in the world used for reasons other than archaeology or tourism. The Abou al-Haggag Mosque was initially built as a Church in the 4th century CE and was converted into a mosque in the 7th century CE. It is named after Sheikh Yusuf Abu el Haggag who saved the mosque from demolition. The best time to visit Abou al-Haggag Mosque is in early November, when a festival is held to honour Abou el Haggag’s birthday. The festival includes performances of Sufi music, horse races, boat rides and other activities. Read More

A Felucca is a small traditional boat propelled by oars and/or lateen sails widely used on the Nile. Banana island is a small island on the West Bank of the Nile with a banana plantation and other small farms. You can book a Felucca ride to the island that takes about 3 to 4 hours. It is the ideal place to visit to enjoy fresh fruits and see some native animals up close. It can only be reached by Felucca or motorboat. Taking a Felucca to the island is a very pleasant and peaceful experience and the island provides a glimpse into local agricultural life. It is recommended that you schedule your trip so you can see the stunning view of the sunrise or the sunset from the Felucca. Read More

Hot Air Balloon ride is one of the most popular things to do in Luxor. It offers a stunning panoramic view of the city and its exquisite monuments. The best time is during sunrise or sunset. You are accompanied by a professional guide who safely pilots the hot air balloon while explaining the historical landmarks you pass, such as Karnak and Queen Hatshepsut’s temple. A hot air balloon is a convenient and exhilarating way to see most of the city in a short- to two-hour flight. They are often inclusive of transport from your hotel to the launch site and back as well. Read More

Luxor Museum is an archaeological museum located on the Nile Corniche road. Spanning two levels, it displays archaeological marvels discovered in Luxor, consisting of the unique and well-preserved statues of gods and goddesses from the Luxor temple and artefacts from the tomb of Tutankhamun. Main exhibits include a statue of King Tuthmosis III of the 18th dynasty, a statue of the god Sobek and King Amenhotep III, royal mummies of Ahmose I and Ramesses I and a reassembled wall from the Temple of Aten. Start with the seven-minute presentation next to the gift shop to get an overview of the entire museum. In addition, there is an attached gift shop and a bookstore with some very rare books on Egypt and Egyptian history. Read More

The Luxor Temple is an ancient Egyptian temple complex located to the east of the Nile. It is famous for its arcades, statues, elaborate columns, images, and statues of Amenhotep III and Ramses II. It was constructed in 1400 BCE and is considered one of the two primary temples on the East Bank. It is best visited after sunset when the lights are turned on, making Luxor temple seem even more magical. Unlike other temples, Luxor Temple is not dedicated to a god but to the rejuvenation of kingship. Therefore, it is a site where many kings may have been crowned, including Alexander The Great. At the entrance is a 75-foot obelisk dedicated to Pharoah Ramses II. To the rear of the temple are chapels and the Abu Haggag Mosque. The Romans initially built the mosque in 395 CE. This makes Luxor temple the oldest building in the world that is active other than for tourist or archaeological purposes. It is connected to the Karnak temple by Sphinx Avenue. Read More