Luxor Travel Guide
Neighborhoods, getting around, day trips, safety, and food—how to plan Luxor in a practical 2–4 day itinerary.
Why visit
Luxor is the open-air museum of ancient Egypt—temples, tombs, and river views—best enjoyed with early starts and a heat-aware plan. This guide focuses on the decisions that make a trip smoother: where to base yourself, how to move around, and how to structure 2–4 days without overplanning.
Best areas to stay
- East Bank near the river — Convenient for restaurants and easy access to major temples.
- West Bank — Quieter and scenic; great for slow mornings and cycling.
- City centre — Budget-friendly but can be busy—prioritize comfort in peak heat.
Tip: choose accommodation with clear reviews on noise, walkability, and late-night transport—those details matter more than star ratings.
Getting around
Use a mix of ride-hailing, metered taxis (where reliable), and walking in dense districts. Build buffers for traffic and plan a “two-anchor” day: one major activity in the morning, one in the afternoon, with flexible time between.
Top things to do
- Start with a walking orientation: markets, main squares, and a museum/gallery to understand the city’s story.
- Schedule one “viewpoint” or waterfront/elevated spot for golden hour photos.
- Pick one signature experience (cooking class, live music, crafts, or architecture tour).
Neighborhoods and local culture
Think in zones: a historic core for sights, a modern district for restaurants and cafés, and a quieter base for sleep. If you’re visiting on a weekend, confirm what closes early and plan an indoor option in case weather shifts.
Day trips and extensions
- Sunrise start for major sites to avoid crowds and heat.
- Nile felucca ride at golden hour for a calmer contrast to temple days.
- Add one rest block: museums/cafés midday to prevent burnout.
If you’re tight on time, pick just one day trip. Two day trips often turns a 3-day city break into a transport-heavy sprint.
Common scams, safety, and etiquette
Use licensed guides for complex sites, confirm transport prices, and keep cash small and accessible. Heat is the main risk—plan shade and rest. Keep valuables out of sight, use reputable transport at night, and avoid “too good to be true” offers for tours or currency exchange.
Food highlights
- Plan meals around site timing—early breakfasts are key.
- Hydrate aggressively and carry snacks for long visits.
- Choose reputable restaurants; heat makes food safety more important.
For a confident first meal, choose busy restaurants with clear menus and strong hygiene reviews. If you’re sensitive to spice, ask what’s hot and what’s mild.
Suggested 2–4 day itinerary
- Day 1: Orientation walk + signature market + one museum.
- Day 2: Neighborhood day + food highlights + sunset viewpoint.
- Day 3: One day trip (or a second museum + slow café day).
- Day 4 (optional): Shopping, wellness, or a short excursion before onward travel.
Sources and references
For up-to-date advisories and logistics, cross-check official sources such as national tourism boards, municipal transport sites, and your embassy travel advice before departure.