Luxor has a rich history shown through temples and tombs along the Nile River, which splits the area into two banks: the East Bank and the West Bank. The East Bank is where most Egyptians live and work and is where you will see most of the hotels and restaurants. The West Bank includes many of the temples and tombs which you will explore in depth in this 2 days in Luxor itinerary.
Getting to Luxor:
There are two main ways to get to Luxor: You can fly from Cairo International Airport (CAI) to Luxor International Airport (LUX) or you can take a night train from Cairo to Luxor. I personally prefer taking the flight, as it is quicker and you can get a good night’s rest in your hotel. However, the night train can be a fun experience.
Tips:
- The easiest way to book activities and excursions in Luxor is to schedule them through your hotel. They can provide you with trip ideas and coordinate everything, even with last-minute notices.
- Getting a guide for the historical tours is very beneficial as you will gain a lot more knowledge of the rich history of the tombs and temples you will encounter. I learned so much and it really elevated my experience! You will also be able to avoid unwanted attention from shop owners or taxi drivers and will be able to focus on the beautiful sites.
- In Luxor, the main transportation is Taxis. These Taxis do not use meters, so you must negotiate a price. If your hotel provides transportation from the Airport or Train Station to the hotel, this option can limit the stress of finding a taxi when you arrive.
Day 1
Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride
Although I was not able to do this activity on my visit to Luxor (read my tip below…), I have heard this is an absolute must. This was one of the activities I was most excited for when visiting Luxor, so I hope you get lucky enough to experience it. There are many different companies that do these hot air balloon rides, but the easiest way to book this in my opinion is to talk with your hotel and have them schedule it for you. You will get picked up very early in the morning (exact timing depends on the sunrise time based on the season), and you will get transported to the West Bank. You will hop in a large basket and start your climb up into the sky over the Valley of the Kings to see a spectacular sunrise.
Tip: Book the sunrise hot air balloon ride for your first day. It is common that these can be canceled due to weather, so if that happens you can reschedule for your second day.
Relaxation / Massage
After the hot air balloon ride, despite the high you may be still feeling from the amazing sight, you most likely will be tired. Grab breakfast at your hotel and then fit in a quick nap. To continue your relaxation, book a spa experience at the Hilton Resort and Spa. This was one of the best massages I have received and provided a nice relaxation from my travels throughout Egypt. After your spa experience, stop for lunch at the restaurant inside the hotel, overlooking the Nile River.
Luxor Museum
After you feel refreshed, head over to the Luxor Museum. Give yourself a self-guided tour, navigating through the MANY historical artifacts. This museum has great descriptions alongside each artifact that helps paint the story. Additionally, you will be able to see a few mummies. The mummies were definitely a highlight for me!
Sofra Restaurant and Café
For dinner, get a reservation at Sofra Restaurant and Café. This highly-rated restaurant has many traditional Egyptian meals in a unique, moody atmosphere.
Sunset Felucca Ride
A perfect activity to end your evening is to take a Felucca ride at sunset. A felucca is a traditional Egyptian wooden boat with a canvas sail. You will be provided tea and a beautiful view, cruising through the Nile River and watching the sunset.
Day 2
Historical Sites
Gear up for a busy and exciting day on your second day in Luxor. Book a full-day tour of the historical sites in the area. You will be provided with a driver and a guide. I highly recommend getting a guide as it will help you understand the rich history. On this tour, you will visit the places listed below. Expect to be absolutely speechless with trying to understand the complexity of this ancient time.
Notes:
- Your tour will most likely include the entrance fees for each location, but any fees to enter additional tombs will need to be paid for during that time.
- Your tour will most likely include stopping for lunch.
Valley of the Kings
Location: West Bank
You will experience many different tombs, getting to walk through these large pathways underground, surrounded by detailed hieroglyphics on the walls. There is a general entrance ticket to go through a couple of tombs, and many additional fees to enter other tombs. If you are looking to do one of these extras, I would recommend the Tomb of King Tut. You are able to see his mummy in the tomb, which I thought was unique.
- Ramses I
- Ramses III
- Ramses IX
- Tomb of King Tut
Notes:
- Your tour guide may not be able to accompany you through all of the tombs due to restrictions, but you can take photos of anything in the tomb to show them after and they can explain.
- You may come across locals in the tombs who will offer to take pictures or offer to give you information. Make sure to know they are expecting a tip for the service. If you do not want this, make sure you are clear in saying no.
Temple of Hatshepsut
Location: West Bank
This temple is partially built into the rock cliffs of Deir el-Bahari, which makes it stunning. In this mortuary temple, you will see large terraces with many columns and hieroglyphics covering the walls.
Colossi of Memnon
Location: West Bank
This will be a quick stop to get up close to two large stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III.
Karnak Temple
Location: East Bank
You will see lines of statues on both sides of you as you enter this temple filled with humongous pillars covered with hieroglyphics. Karnak Temple served as a significant religious center, dedicated to the worship of Amun-Ra, Mut, and Khonsu.
Note:
- There is a sound and light show during the evenings at Karnak Temple. This is a unique way to further experience this historical site.
Luxor Temple
Location: East Bank
Large pillars, halls, and chambers encompass the Luxor Temple. This Temple was dedicated to the Theban Triad of Amun, Mut, and Khonsu, it served as a significant religious and political center in ancient Egypt.
Dinner
After exploring these temples, you will have had a history overload and your mind may be spinning (in a good way!). Get dinner and relax for the remainder of the evening. Dinner options can include:
- Sofra Restaurant and Café
- Al-Sahaby Lane
- Pizza Roma.It
- El Kababgy
- 1886
In just two days, you can experience Luxor’s ancient history. From the stunning views on your sunrise hot air balloon ride to exploring majestic temples, and cruising down the Nile River, this short adventure has a lot to offer.
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