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Discover Luxor

Widely known as the greatest open-air museum in the world, Luxor draws thousands of tourists from around the world to visit its monuments. It is the celebrated site of the ancient city of Thebes where the ruins of the temple complexes of Luxor and Karnak still stand in stark contrast to the modern city.

Situated across from the Nile, the setting is truly stunning. The wealth and grandeur from the temples of Karnak and Luxor have attracted travellers since the end of the 18th century. This influx of tourists has contributed significantly to the economy of the city. Across from the Nile are the tombs and temples of Necropolis which are home to the Valley of the Kings and Valley of the Queens. Luxor has so much variety for the visitor, with temples, tombs, striking dessert and river atmosphere blended within the confines of a modern city.

Luxor Museum

Located on the central Corniche Avenue, this museum displays an extensive collection of statues and artefacts dating back hundreds of centuries. Records show that many exhibits were discovered in local temples, while some originate from Tutankhamun's tomb.

Temple Of Karnak

You must make this vast open-air museum part of your itinerary. The Temple of Karnak is a combination of three main temples, Mut, Monthu and Amun but also includes other buildings. The highpoint is the Second Pylon of Karnak which was built by Ramesses II.

Tomb Of Ramses VI

Sheltered in the Valley of the Kings in the West Bank, you will be astonished at the tomb of Ramses VI with its gigantic paintings from the ceiling to the floor. This tomb is one of the best in the Valley of the Kings, so make it a point to visit.

Valley Of The Kings

This isolated valley highlighted by the pyramid-shaped mountain peak of Al Qurn was chosen by the pharaohs of the New Kingdom period (1550-1069 BC). Once called the Valley of Truths, the Valley of the Kings has 63 magnificent royal tombs.

Shopping

There are generally two main markets in Luxor. The first one which is newer is in an air-conditioned hall, lined with shops on either side. You'll find the second and older market near the Luxor temple. It has the feel of an old souk where you can pick up some good bargains like a traditional cotton galabeya.

The main souq in Luxor lies on the Abd-El-Hameed Taha. If you feel like something different try the super-busy Luxor's Corniche el-Nil - it sells everything from leather goods, to clothes to jewellery. Habiba Gallery is an interesting stop for quality Egyptian handicrafts and cottons made by locals.

For a bit of history pop into Aboudy Book Shop. Opened in 1909, it is one of the oldest (and biggest) bookstores in Luxor. Here you will not only get books but souvenirs and typically Egyptian gifts. Then there's Caravanserai the old Egyptian-style craft shop located on the road to Medinet Habu, that sells crafts from all over Egypt.

Food And Drink

Expect to find Italian, French, Chinese and a host of typically Egyptian dishes on offer in Luxor. You can't go home without trying Koshari, a local dish made from pasta and tomatoes. Absolutely delicious. There's also a wide variety of vegetarian dishes.

A typical Egyptian meal is usually served with pita-bread and mezze such as baba ghanoush or tabbouleh. This is followed by a main course of meat or chicken. A dish with pigeon or rabbit could come as a pleasant surprise. There's also a fair variety of western cuisine.

As for restaurants there are some favourites, starting with Sofra Restaurant which serves delicious food in a charming local atmosphere. This is Egyptian food at its best and the service is endearing. Al Sahaby Lane, next to the Nefertiti Hotel, is a restaurant that's a landmark in itself. Tucked away in a by-lane between the souq and the street leading to the Karnak temples, the restaurant serves authentic Egyptian dishes like 'tagen', a stew cooked in a clay pot. Other side dishes include salads and thin pizzas. Want to try something like never before? Ask for the camel with couscous or rice.