Luxor 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Ancient Wonders

Morning:

  1. Breakfast at Al-Ayady Restaurant (Abu al-Naga Street): Start your day with a traditional Egyptian breakfast, which usually includes eggs, flatbread, and local cheeses.
  2. Karnak Temple Complex: Visit the largest temple complex in the world, built over 2000 years ago by various Pharaohs dedicated to the gods Amun, Mut, and Khonsu. (Entrance fee: around $15)

Afternoon:

  1. Luxor Temple: Walk to the Luxor Temple, another ancient temple complex built by Amenhotep III and Ramses II. It’s beautifully lit up in the evening, so plan your visit accordingly.
  2. Colossi of Memnon: On your way back, stop by the Colossi of Memnon, two massive stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III.
  3. Lunch at Maison de Siam (Abu al-Naga Street): Enjoy a Thai meal for a change at this popular restaurant.

Evening:

  1. Horse and Carriage Ride around the West Bank: Experience a romantic horse and carriage ride along the West Bank of Luxor, passing by the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, and the Valley of the Queens.
  2. Dinner at Dar Nubia (Nile Corniche): Have dinner at this charming Nubian-style restaurant overlooking the Nile, offering a variety of Egyptian dishes.

Transportation:

  • Taxis or hire a car with a driver for the day (negotiate the price beforehand)
  • Horse and carriage rides are available around the West Bank

Day 2: Tombs, Temples, and the Nile

Morning:

  1. Breakfast at your hotel or try Al-Sammakia Restaurant (Abu al-Naga Street)
  2. Valley of the Kings: Visit the tombs of famous Pharaohs like Tutankhamun, Seti I, and Ramses VI (Entrance fee: around $20)
  3. Hatshepsut Temple: Marvel at this impressive mortuary temple dedicated to Queen Hatshepsut, one of ancient Egypt’s most successful pharaohs.
  4. Lunch at Amina El-Tannoury (Abu al-Naga Street): Try local dishes like molokhia, koshary, and ful medames for lunch.

Afternoon:

  1. Medinet Habu: Explore this impressive mortuary temple of Ramses III, filled with intricate carvings and hieroglyphs.
  2. Necropolis of Thebes: Visit the Necropolis of Thebes, which includes the Valley of the Queens, the Tombs of the Nobles, and Deir el-Medina.
  3. Nile Felucca Ride: Cap off your day with a relaxing sunset felucca ride on the Nile (around $10 per hour)

Evening:

  1. Dinner at Al Sufi (Abu al-Naga Street): Enjoy Middle Eastern cuisine in this cozy restaurant.

Where to Stay:

  1. Sonesta St. George Hotel: Centrally located, offers a swimming pool and rooftop terrace with views of Luxor Temple.
  2. Steigenberger Nile Palace Luxor: Set on the West Bank of Luxor, this hotel has a private beach area, multiple restaurants, and a spa.
  3. Luxor House Boutique Hotel: A charming hotel with an intimate atmosphere, offering a rooftop terrace overlooking Luxor Temple.

Things to Know:

  • Egyptian Museum in Cairo houses most of the treasures from Tutankhamun’s tomb; however, there are smaller exhibits in Luxor*
  • Bargaining is expected when shopping for souvenirs; don’t be afraid to negotiate prices*
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and remove your shoes when entering temples*
  • Stay safe by avoiding isolated areas and being cautious at night*