Introduction
Luxor sightseeing includes some of the most significant ancient Egyptian monuments in the East and West Banks of the Nile. You will witness a concentration of temples, tombs and archaeological remnants of ancient Thebes.
For wider touring in Egypt, it is possible to combine your visit to Luxor with other major attractions. Discover our Egypt Travel Packages for an extended tour of this fascinating country.
Table of content:
Luxor Attractions Across the East and West Banks
Luxor is divided by the Nile River into two major zones of attraction. The East Bank is home to most ancient temples like Karnak, while the West Bank is famous for its royal tombs and temples.
Highlights of Luxor Sightseeing
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Discover Karnak Temple and its Temple Complex
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Visit Luxor Temple on the East Bank of the Nile.
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Marvel at the Valley of the Kings on the West Bank of the Nile.
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See the alabaster Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir al-Bahari.
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See the Colossi of Memnon.
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Discover other archaeological sites on the West Bank.
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Combined with other Nile Valley excursions.
Karnak Temple
Karnak is one of the largest temple complexes found in Luxor. Its vast size and impressive collection of columns, courtyards, temples, and other buildings make it a significant site to visit in the city.
In addition, the temple complex is historically linked with Luxor Temple by the ancient processional road.
Luxor Temple
Luxor Temple is located on the East Bank – another major tourist attraction for anyone wanting to discover Ancient Egypt, and its history and architecture. Its position also makes it a convenient addition to day tours discovering other East Bank landmarks.
Those wishing to continue along the River Nile, heading South towards Upper Egypt, might also be interested in our Egypt Nile Cruises
Valley of the Kings
The Valley of the Kings is a group of tombs in the West Bank of Luxor. Archaeologists believe that this area was sacred to the ancient Egyptians who lived during the period of the New Kingdom. The Valley of the Kings is one of the most popular excursions among tourists visiting Luxor.
Temple of Hatshepsut
The Temple of Hatshepsut is another significant attraction located on the Western side of the Nile. Unlike many other constructions found in this region, it has a unique appearance that is difficult to be mistaken for anything else.
What is more, its position enables visiting both this place of interest and the rest of the ancient buildings found on the western bank of the river. In this regard, it should be considered as a part of the broader historical route.
Other West Bank Sites
The West Bank is home to a number of other archaeological sites including the Medinet Habu, Ramesseum, the Colossi of Memnon, Valley of the Queens as well as Deir al-Medina.
If you're visiting Upper Egypt and looking to spend time exploring its key attractions, you may also want to use our Aswan Attractions: Complete Aswan Guide to see the main sights in this other important Nile Valley region.
Planning Your Luxor Travel Guide
A practical Luxor travel guide should focus on breaking down the main sights into East Bank and West Bank areas. This will help you get a sense of the location of the temples and archaeological attractions available in this historic region.
If Luxor is to be part of your first trip to Egypt, our Egypt Travel Guide: Essential Egypt Travel Tips for Your Trip for Your Trip offers a range of wider trip-planning advice that you might find useful.
Luxor can also be combined with a trip to Cairo and other destinations, depending on the shape of your wider Egypt travel plan. Those heading to the capital city in particular might want to read our Cairo Attractions: Complete Cairo Egypt Guide.
FAQs
1-What are the main sites for Luxor Sightseeing?
The main sights to see in Luxor are centered around the East Bank with the Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple and the West Bank with the Valley of the Kings, Temple of Hatshepsut, Medinet Habu, and other ancient relics.
2-Is Luxor divided into an East Bank and West Bank?
Yes. The Nile separates Luxor into two main sightseeing areas. The East Bank contains major temples, while the West Bank is known for royal tombs, temples, and other archaeological sites.
3-What should I include in a Luxor Travel Guide?
A useful guide should cover both sides of the Nile and explain the main temples, royal tombs, and archaeological sites that travelers can include in their itinerary.
4-What is Luxor best known for?
Luxor is best known for its ancient Egyptian temples, royal tombs, and archaeological sites, including Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings, and the Temple of Hatshepsut.
5-Can Luxor be combined with other Egyptian destinations?
Yes. Luxor can be included in a wider Egypt itinerary alongside destinations such as Cairo and Aswan, including routes that travel along the Nile.
