Explore Luxor attractions: a complete guide for new visitors

Last updated on November 14th, 2026 at 01:03 pm

The top Luxor attractions are split between the two banks of the Nile: Karnak and Luxor Temple on the East Bank, and the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut and Medinet Habu on the West Bank. This guide lists every major site with tickets, time needed, how many days to spend and tips for new visitors.

*Prices from the official Egyptian e-ticket site, checked November 2026. Prices change, and special tombs such as Tutankhamun’s cost extra.

Karnak Temple

The largest temple complex of ancient Egypt, built and expanded over some 2,000 years. Walk through the Great Hypostyle Hall with its 134 giant columns, see the obelisks of Hatshepsut and Thutmose I and the sacred lake. Go at opening time or late afternoon.

Luxor Temple

In the heart of the city, built mainly by Amenhotep III and Ramesses II, with colossal statues, an obelisk and the Avenue of Sphinxes leading towards Karnak. It is especially beautiful at dusk when the floodlights come on.

Luxor Museum

A small, superbly displayed museum on the Corniche with statues found in Luxor, including treasures from a cache discovered under Luxor Temple.

The Avenue of Sphinxes

The 2.7 km processional road between Luxor and Karnak temples, restored and reopened in 2021.

Valley of the Kings

The burial place of New Kingdom pharaohs, with painted tombs cut deep into the hills. The standard ticket includes three tombs; the tomb of Tutankhamun and a few others need extra tickets.

Temple of Hatshepsut

Queen Hatshepsut’s terraced memorial temple at Deir el-Bahari, set against towering golden cliffs.

Medinet Habu

The memorial temple of Ramesses III, with some of the best-preserved colour and battle reliefs in Egypt, and usually fewer crowds.

Valley of the Queens

Tombs of queens and royal children, with beautifully painted walls.

Colossi of Memnon

Two giant seated statues of Amenhotep III by the roadside, all that remains of his huge temple.

Hot-air balloon ride

At sunrise, float over the West Bank temples and fields; book the Luxor hot-air balloon ride.

Dendera Temple, about an hour north, has a stunning blue astronomical ceiling and is often combined with Abydos. To the south, the temples of Edfu and Kom Ombo lie on the road or river route to Aswan.

• 1 day: Valley of the Kings and Hatshepsut in the morning, Karnak in the afternoon and Luxor Temple at dusk.
• 2 days: split the banks, adding Medinet Habu and Luxor Museum.
• 3 days: add a sunrise balloon, the Valley of the Queens and Dendera.

Our Luxor day tours, the East Bank tour and the West Bank full-day tour cover these routes with a guide.

• Start early; the West Bank has little shade.
• Carry small notes for tips, toilets and the local ferry.
• No flash inside tombs; photography rules can vary by tomb.
• Dress lightly but modestly, and bring a hat, water and sunscreen.
• Read when to visit Luxor and reasons to visit Luxor.

What are the top attractions in Luxor?
Karnak, Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut and Medinet Habu.

How many days do I need in Luxor?
Two days covers the highlights; three is relaxed.

Which bank should I visit first?
The West Bank early in the morning, the East Bank in the afternoon and evening.

Is the Valley of the Kings ticket enough for Tutankhamun?
No, his tomb needs an extra ticket.

Can I see Luxor in one day?
Yes, the main sights, with an early start and a driver or guide.

Where to Stay for Luxor’s Attractions

East Bank: the best base for a first visit, with most hotels, restaurants and the Corniche, and Karnak and Luxor Temple a short ride away. West Bank: quieter, with small guesthouses among the fields, close to the tombs for an early start and a sunrise balloon. The two banks are linked by a bridge south of town, by the public ferry and by small motorboats. Many visitors stay on the East Bank and cross to the West Bank by car with their guide.

Luxor is the world’s greatest open-air museum. Give it at least two days, see the West Bank tombs early and the East Bank temples late, and add a balloon ride if you can. See all sites on our Luxor attractions page.