What to Do in Luxor in 5 Days? Travel Guide and Tips

Day 1 | Morning

Temple of Karnak

Opening Hours: Open from 6:00am-5:30pm

Ticket Price: 2 EGP

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-2 Hours

Location: Karnak, Luxor, Luxor Governorate 1363140, Egypt

Karnak Temple is located on the east bank of the Nile River, 700 kilometers south of Cairo. It is a large-scale temple complex in ancient Egypt and an ancient temple in Thebes. Founded in 2000 BC, more than 50 pharaohs participated in the construction. It was not until the 3rd century BC that the temple, which had been built for a long time in the history of civilization, was finally completed. The temple is divided into three parts by brick walls, the middle part is better preserved and the larger part, it is dedicated to the sun god Amon (Amon). The one on the left is dedicated to the god Montu, while the other is dedicated to the wife of the god Amun, the goddess Mut in the form of a vulture, but has not yet been excavated. In addition, there are dozens of temples of various sizes in the complex. There are two rows of statues with heads of sphinxes and rams on both sides of the Shinto that leads to the pylon of Karnak Temple. It is said that in history, this Shinto, guarded by a sheep-headed sphinx, leads to the Luxor Temple, which is 3 kilometers away. Throughout the temple, you can see many frescoes, statues, and pillars that use mud and stones to restore and glue the fragmented monuments together. This is because the Karnak Temple has been built more than 4,000 years ago, and it has been more than 2,000 years since its completion. Due to man-made and natural destruction, the temple was once beyond recognition. I don’t know how many years and how many archaeologists have worked hard to present the current Karnak Temple to the world.

Reviews from Real Guests:

Plum9195: This was the first Temple I visited on my trip to Egypt. There was so much to see and appreciate. You will want a tour guide with you if it is your first time because you will appreciate what you are seeing much more if you can understand what you are seeing. It is worth the cost and not too expensive because usually it includes pick up and drop off from the airport or your hotel. I did not realize that there would still be colors on the columns that I would be able to see, to imagine they are still this bright after thousands of years is just beyond belief. This is a must do, it is as good as the Great Pyramids, maybe even better.

MarlonS: I loved to visit the Karnak Temple. Please don’t forget to take a water bottle with you cause it can be very hot there!

Day 1 | Afternoon

When time permits after visiting Temple of Karnak, don’t forget pay a visit to Luxor Temple.

Luxor Temple

Opening Hours: 6:00-22:00

Ticket Price: 40 EGP

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-2 Hours

Location: Corniche El Nil St. Luxor, Luxor 23512, Egypt

The Luxor Temple was mainly built by Amenhotep III (1380 BC-1352 BC) and Ramses III (1279 BC-1213 BC). The Luxor Temple is located in the city center. It used to be a small temple used to celebrate the New Year. Later, Amenhotep III, Thutmose III and Ramses II successively expanded and repaired this place and used it as a place to welcome Amenhotep III, Thutmose III and Ramses II. It is also known as the "Southern Palace of God Amon" because it is the memorial place of God Mon Ra, Goddess Mut and God Kongsu. A grand festival is held here every year during the Opert Festival (end of May-June). The temple's former sphinx road, named after the sphinx, could have led all the way to the Karnak Temple, but it has been interrupted. In the temple, you can see the huge statue of Ramses II, the granite obelisk and the magnificent stone pillars.

Reviews from Real Guests:

Plum9195: Go at night to visit this famous temple in Luxor. It will be very crowded, but it will be cooler and the lights make everything very attractive. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes because the ground is uneven and you will want to make sure you do not slip. Going with a tour guide is recommended, they will be able to explain what you are seeing so you can fully appreciate the Temple. Reduced admission is available for Egyptian Citizens and students if they have an ID. This is a must do if you are in Egypt.

Archer Lalu: a must-see destination in Egypt

Day 1 | Evening

Looking for a bed nearby after finishing your journey at Luxor Temple? Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor is one of your top choices.

Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor

Winter Palace built in 1886 on the Nile banks in a tropical garden is a magical experience of history luxury that hosted royalties and celebrities throughout the years. Winter Palace offers the mythical atmosphere with the modern decor comfort of a 5 starhotel It is located in the city center just minutes from Luxor Temple and the Luxor International airport.

Day 2 | Morning

Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut

Opening Hours: Open from 9:00am-5:00pm

Ticket Price: 20 EGP

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-1.5 Hours

Location: Kharga Oasis Department, New Valley 134,420

This is the temple built by the famous Queen Hatshepsut and her father Thutmose I in Egyptian history. It is located in a valley surrounded by cliffs. Two long and wide slopes connect three flat and wide colonnade buildings in series.

Reviews from Real Guests:

Plum9195: This was such an interesting Temple built by a very interesting Queen. I will not spoil the story by telling it to you here, it is much better when you hear it while visiting the temple. You should have a guide to help you truly appreciate the history of the Temple. Usually the same guide that takes you to the Valley of the King's will take you to this Temple as well as they are very close to each other. The Polish people were instrumental in preserving this Temple and signage recognises this contribution. Seeing the actual tree stump of one of the trees brought back from a long ago trek was also mind-blowing. This was one of the most memorable sites we visited. Highly recommend.

Day 2 | Afternoon

When time permits after visiting Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, don’t forget pay a visit to Temple of Medinat Habu.

Temple of Medinat Habu

Opening Hours: Open from 6:00am-5:00pm

Ticket Price: 2 EGP

Recommended Length of Stay: 2-4 Hours

Location: Al Bairat, Al Qarna, Luxor Governorate,

The Temple of Habu City on the West Bank is second only to the Temple of Amon in area. It is a large-scale construction project during the reign of the pharaohs and a monument to a prosperous period in Egypt. It used to be a very large city, and now only the temple of Ramses III remains. Ramses III was not obscured by the light of Ramses II, and the temple he built was one of the representative buildings in the New Kingdom period. Ramses III not only liked to fight, but also liked to build large-scale construction. Here he built many shrines and altars to worship the three Egyptian gods. Ramses III reigned for 31 years, at the age of 65, the tomb was built in the Valley of the Kings. However, all the artifacts unearthed from the Temple of Ramses III are now housed in the Cairo Museum.

Day 2 | Evening

Looking for a bed nearby after finishing your journey at Temple of Medinat Habu? Pavillon Winter Luxor is one of your top choices.

Pavillon Winter Luxor

In the very heart of the city of Luxor, the 5-star Pavillon Winter Luxor perches on the banks of the River Nile, nestled in the midst of lush tropical gardens, close to the International Convention Centre and all major local business venues. The contemporary gives way to the timeless in the surrounding areas of the hotel, where some of the world's most fabled archaeological sites, from the Luxor Temple to the tombs of ancient kings and queens, have endured for millennia and await your visit.

Day 3 | Morning

Tomb of King Tutankhamun (Tut)

Opening Hours: Open from 7:00am-5:00pm

Ticket Price: 100 EGP

Recommended Length of Stay: 0.5-1 Hours

Location: Valley of the Kings, Luxor, Egypt

Tutankhamun's Tomb Almost everyone who comes to the Valley of the Kings will not miss this legendary tomb. In November 1922, Egyptian archaeologist Howard Carter discovered treasures far beyond his imagination here, and the mystery of Tutankhamun has been unveiled since then. Most of the treasures have now been moved to the Cairo Museum, but Tutankhamun's mummy remains in place. Tutankhamun is one of the unremarkable tombs in the Valley of the Kings. The pharaoh was only 18 years old when he died, and it was too late to even complete a tomb, but the many treasures including the world-famous gold are still amazing.

Day 3 | Afternoon

After finishing the tour at Tomb of King Tutankhamun (Tut), you can head to Temple of Hathor, the most worth visiting place around the corner.

Temple of Hathor

Opening Hours: Open from 8:00am-5:00pm

Ticket Price: 40 EGP

Recommended Length of Stay: 2-3 Hours

Location: Qina, Qesm Qina, Qina, Qena, Egypt

Many temples in Dandara were badly damaged, except for the temple of Hathor, which is almost in its original shape and is famous for its relief of Cleopatra VII. It is worth a special trip to visit. Cleopatra VII was the last queen of Egypt before Roman rule. The main building of the Temple of Hathor is very well preserved. After entering, there are two maternity rooms on the right side, next to the ruins of the Coptic church, and further inside is the temple. The interior of the temple has exquisite and complete reliefs from the walls to the ceiling, and the colors are bright and beautiful. Especially on the ceiling, the celestial map of the twelve constellations and the scene of the gods driving the sun ship through the universe are carved. The relief of Cleopatra VII on the wall on the south side of the temple is sharp and very clear. There is a room at the rear of the shrine that leads to the catacombs, where the famous bulb-like frescoes are amazing.

Day 3 | Evening

If you want to explore other popular attractions later, Steigenberger Nile Palace Luxor Hotel is a suitable place for you to stay and refresh.

Steigenberger Nile Palace Luxor Hotel

Property Location
When you stay at Steigenberger Nile Palace Luxor Hotel & Convention Center in Luxor, you'll be next to a golf course and convenient to Luxor Temple and Luxor Museum. This 5-star resort is within close proximity of Colossi of Memnon and Karnak.

Rooms
Make yourself at home in one of the 304 air-conditioned rooms featuring minibars. Satellite programming provides entertainment, and wired and wireless Internet access is available for a surcharge. Private bathrooms with separate bathtubs and showers feature bidets and hair dryers. Conveniences include phones, as well as safes and a turndown service.

Rec, Spa, Premium Amenities
Pamper yourself with a visit to the spa, which offers massages. You're sure to appreciate the recreational amenities, including a health club, an outdoor pool, and an outdoor tennis court. This resort also features wireless Internet access (surcharge), concierge services, and babysitting/childcare (surcharge).

Dining
Enjoy a meal at one of the resort's dining establishments, which include 4 restaurants and a coffee shop/café. From your room, you can also access 24-hour room service. Relax with your favorite drink at a bar/lounge or a poolside bar. A complimentary buffet breakfast is served daily.

Business, Other Amenities
Featured amenities include a business center, limo/town car service, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Planning an event in Luxor? This resort has 4510 square feet (419 square meters) of space consisting of conference space and meeting rooms.

You must present a photo ID when checking in. Your credit card is charged at the time you book. Bed type and smoking preferences are not guaranteed.Your reservation is prepaid and is guaranteed for late arrival. The total charge includes all room charges and taxes, as well as fees for access and booking. Any incidental charges such as parking, phone calls, and room service wi

Day 4 | Morning

Ramesseum (Mortuary Temple of Ramses II)

Opening Hours: Open from 6:00am-5:00pm

Ticket Price: 40 EGP

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-1 Hours

Location: Edfo, Luxor Governorate, Egypt

This temple is a small part of the tomb complex of Ramses II. Ramses II's tomb is hidden deep in the mountains, but his temple was built on the bank of the Nile like other temples. Unfortunately this temple was not as well preserved as its temples in Karnak and Abu Simbel, but was largely destroyed. Going straight ahead from the entrance is the second courtyard, on the left is the second tower gate and the first courtyard, and on the right is the large column hall. Although the statues in the temple collapsed everywhere, traces of the colossus of Ramses II can still be seen. The once 17.5-meter-tall colossus lay bleakly on the ground, which was also the inspiration for the famous poet Shelley's "Ozymandias".

Day 4 | Afternoon

When time permits after visiting Ramesseum (Mortuary Temple of Ramses II), don’t forget pay a visit to Tombs of the Nobles.

Tombs of the Nobles

Opening Hours: Open from 6:00am-5:00pm

Ticket Price: 20 EGP

Recommended Length of Stay: 2-3 Hours

Location: West Bank near Ramesseum, Gurna, Luxor

The noble tombs are located near the necropolis of Thebes in Luxor. It is the burial site of some powerful courtiers and people from the ancient city. There are more than 400 in the hills opposite the Temple of Ramses. The sixth dynasty rests here. to the dignitaries of the Greco-Roman period. Unlike the pharaohs, they had their superior life printed on the walls. The west bank of the noble tombs is a relatively attractive attraction, but it is often overlooked and less tourists. At present, there are 15 noble tombs open to the public, and they are divided into 5 groups, and each group has to buy a separate ticket.

Day 4 | Evening

For convenient access to more popular attractions, Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa is the best places.

Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa

Whether for business or leisure travelers, Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa can make your trip to Luxor more beautiful and memorable. The hotel is located in a convenient area, only 8 km away from Luxor International Airport, Exo Railway Station is only 4km away. Including Sphinx Avenue, Carnac Sound and Light Show and Carnac Open Air Museum are all within a short distance. Guests staying at the hotel will be very convenient to visit the area. The hotel is close to many popular tourist attractions Including Luxor Museum, Seti I Temple and Mummy Museum, travelers can make the schedule more compact. The hotel is very well decorated, each well-appointed room is equipped with in-room safe, air conditioning and LCD TV. For those who need water, the hotel also provides you with an electric kettle. In addition, equipped with 24 The bathroom with hours of hot water and a hairdryer is a good place to eliminate the fatigue of the day. In your spare time, you can choose to go to the hotel cafe for a drink to drive away all the tiredness. The attentive food delivery service can satisfy those who like to be in private Meal for travelers.

Day 5 | Morning

Valley of the Queens

Opening Hours: Open from 6:00am-5:00pm

Ticket Price: 50 EGP

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-2 Hours

Location: Valley of the Queens， Luxor

The Valley of the Queens is located at the southern end of the Thebes Mountains. There are about 80 mausoleums. In addition to the burial of distinguished queens, there are also burials of royal children and powerful people. Among the nearly 80 tombs that have been unearthed, the most famous is the tomb of Nefertati, the beloved queen of Ramses II. Inside there are very beautiful murals in the Valley of the Queens and even the entire Luxor West Bank tombs, as well as a beautiful portrait of Nefertati playing a game. In the painting, she is wearing white clothes, a red belt, and a gold crown. Playing chess, the brushstrokes are meticulous, and the style of painting is rigorous and interesting, which is quite worth seeing. The Tomb of Nefertati (No.66) This is the tomb built by Ramses II for his beloved queen. It can only be described as "beautiful". Every inch of the walls of the three tombs and corridors is decorated with colorful paintings, which shows how much Ramses II was infatuated with the queen at that time.

Day 5 | Afternoon

Having the chance to enjoy the charming Valley of the Queens, Mummyfication Museum next to it is another great place that you will never want to miss!

Mummyfication Museum

Opening Hours: Open from 1/1-12/31(Winter),9:00am-9:00pm;Open from 1/1-12/31(Summer),9:00am-10:00pm

Ticket Price: 40 EGP

Recommended Length of Stay: 0.5-1 Hours

Location: Luxor City, Luxor, Luxor Governorate 1362501

The Mummy Museum was built in 1997. Egyptian architects cleverly used light to turn the museum on the first basement into a cold tomb, where various animal mummies and coffins are lined up, creating a strange little journey for you. Located on the banks of the Nile, the Mummy Museum is one of the few museums in Egypt with modern equipment. The museum displays items related to mummies. Along the exhibition route, you can learn about the detailed steps of mummy making. At the same time, you can also learn about the Egyptians' understanding of mummies through their descriptions of mummies. The mummies displayed in the museum are mainly animals, such as sheep, cats, baboons, etc. One of the more special ones is the crocodile mummy. In ancient times, there were many crocodiles on the Nile River in Thebes. The ancient Egyptians worshipped crocodiles as gods, so they created the crocodile god Sobek. There are many crocodile mummies in the museum. The long mouth and long tail of the crocodile are wrapped in layers of white cloth, which is very interesting.

* All reviews in the blog are machine-translated.