Things to do in  Luxor

Luxor is special for two reasons. First, today’s city occupies the site of ancient Thebes, the long-ago capital of pharaonic Upper Egypt, giving it archaeological significance. This heritage also means the city has the highest concentration of ancient monuments of anywhere in Egypt, making it a popular tourist attraction.

Luxor is famous for Karnak, a huge complex started after 2100 BC, and the Valley of the Kings, a network of pharaoh’s tombs—including Tutankhamun’s—in mountains on the Nile’s West Bank, facing the city. Other claims to fame include Hatshepsut Temple, another West Bank site, and Luxor Temple in the city center.

The city stands out for its sheer number of antiquities. However, for uniqueness, the necropolis at Valley of the Kings on the Nile’s West Bank wins. Home to numerous rock-cut royal tombs, the hieroglyph-painted burial compounds include Ramses X, Hatshepsut, and Tutankhamun, whose treasures were famously discovered in 1922.

Karnak, sited just outside Luxor, is the city’s biggest attraction. A vast ensemble of temples, pylons, and halls covering 2,000 acres (80 hectares), it’s a tourist must-see for its grandiose scale. Don’t miss Hypostyle Hall, where 134 soaring stone columns—122 still standing—supported the roof.

Yes, it’s worth visiting, especially for history enthusiasts. Luxor sits where the ancient capital of Thebes stood and boasts well-deserved UNESCO World Heritage protection. Age-old ruins proliferate, from the tomb-filled Valley of the Kings to Karnak and sights including Luxor Temple, Hatshepsut Temple, and the Colossi of Memnon statues.

Begin with a sunrise hot-air balloon ride, floating above Luxor’s West and East Bank sights. Next, spend the morning exploring pharaohs’ tombs at the Valley of the Kings, along with Hatshepsut Temple and the Colossi of Memnon statues. Use the afternoon for experiencing Karnak and Luxor Temple.