Luxor, Egypt: The World's Greatest Open-Air Museum
Built on the site of ancient Thebes, Luxor is the world's greatest open-air museum. Here are its top sights, experiences and the best time to visit.
Luxor is known as the world's greatest open-air museum. Built on the site of ancient Thebes, along the Nile in Upper Egypt, it holds a dense concentration of pharaonic monuments.
Top Attractions
- Karnak Temple Complex: large temples, tall columns and sacred lakes, dedicated mainly to Amun-Ra.
- Luxor Temple: a grand temple in the city center, lit up at night.
- Valley of the Kings: the royal tombs of New Kingdom pharaohs, including Tutankhamun.
- Temple of Hatshepsut: elegant terraces cut into the cliffs at Deir el-Bahari.
- Colossi of Memnon: two giant seated statues guarding the Theban necropolis.
Experiences in Luxor
- Hot air balloon at sunrise: aerial views over the Nile and the ancient temples.
- Nile felucca or cruise: a relaxed way to see life on the river.
- Sound and light shows: evening storytelling at Karnak or Luxor Temple.
East Bank vs. West Bank
- East Bank: Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, museums and hotels.
- West Bank: the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut, and tombs and mortuary temples.
Best Time to Visit
October through April is the best time to visit, with cooler weather. Visit the temples early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and the crowds.
