Luxor in southern Egypt is a modern city located on the east bank of the Nile River. Currently, this city is known as the "world's largest open-air museum city." The name comes from one of the facts that prove that this city is situated at the same site as ancient Thebes. It has been a tourist mecca since the mid-19th century. Moreover, you can also find some treasures of an ancient kingdom, which are still unearthed here.
In ancient times, it was the capital of the ancient kingdom. Still, currently, visitors can spend hours wandering the streets, open-air museums, monuments, tombs, and most famous temples such as Karnak Temple. You can also explore the old houses on the way and look for a glimpse of past centuries. There are several other things to do in Luxor, such as the ones listed below.
This ancient structure was created in the 14th century BC during the reigns of Amenhotep III and Rameses II. It was made by many of Egypt's pharaohs, such as Hatshepsut, Horemheb, and more. The most exciting thing about this historic structure is it includes an obelisk, an avenue lined with sphinxes, and hieroglyphs. This site is considered one of the must-see attractions of Luxor in Egypt. At night, you can experience a light and sound show.
The Karnak Temple is the largest and most impressive collection of temple ruins. It is located just 2 miles northeast of the Temples of Luxor, featuring multiple temples, hieroglyphs, two obelisks, and a scared lake used for special rituals. You will find the Avenue of Sphinxes at the entrance, connecting the Karnak Temple to the Luxor Temple. If you're exploring the Karnak Temple, you're exploring ancient Egypt's ancient times and life.
The Valley of the Kings is a mountainous area with over 60 tombs, underground corridors, incredible wall paintings, and a way that leads to the tomb of some of the greatest Egyptian pharaohs. To avoid any group tours or walk in the sun, arrive early. The opening and closing time of the tombs depends on the sunlight to preserve them. It is because the extreme sunlight that damages the tomb by fading its colors. Also, remember you need to pay extra for your photography or videography, and drones are not allowed.
The Colossi of Memnon are two massive 18-meters stone statues carved from one single sandstone block. Both the statues are battered for over 3,400 years by sun, wind, and water. So they might not be in the best condition but are worth visiting. It comes in the way of the Valley of the Kings, just located west of the city.
This is a unique thing to do in Luxor, Egypt. You can take a walking tour of some of the hidden gems in its local markets and restaurants for Egyptians, not touristy markets. Try something yummy and authentic, don’t forget the experience of food on a certified guide tour. The tour operators will take you to some local restaurants to try their regional cuisines. Be sure to try out local dishes such as shawarma, koshary, fooul sandwich, falafel sandwich, desserts such as basbosa, konafa, and baqlava, and some thirst satisfying drinks like mango and sugarcane juices.
One can consider visiting Luxor during the months of March-April and October-November. During these months, the weather remains pleasant and less crowded. Avoid going in the summer months due to extreme heat.
