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Luxor Travel Guide: Temples, Tombs & How to See Them
How to plan Luxor: the East and West Banks, the Valley of the Kings, Karnak, hot air balloons and how many days to stay.
By the Egypt Knight Tours team · Updated September 2026 · 2 min read
In this guide
Luxor is ancient Thebes, and it is often called the world's greatest open-air museum. It is compact and easy to explore, and it is the heart of any Egypt trip.
The East Bank: temples
Karnak Temple is a vast complex of columns and courtyards. Luxor Temple is beautiful in the evening light. The East Bank is also where you will find hotels, restaurants and the Nile corniche.
The West Bank: tombs
The Valley of the Kings holds royal tombs, some with vivid painted walls. Hatshepsut Temple is a striking terraced temple, and the Colossi of Memnon stand by the road. Start early to avoid the heat.
Hot air balloon at sunrise
A sunrise balloon over the West Bank is a highlight for many couples and families. Book it for the day before your tomb visits so you are not rushed.
How many days in Luxor
Two days is ideal: one for each bank. Read the Cairo vs Luxor vs Aswan comparison, then see Luxor tours.
Best time to visit
November to February for comfortable days. Summers are extremely hot, so see the tombs at first light. More in the best time to visit Egypt.
Getting there
Fly from Cairo in about an hour, take the overnight train, or arrive on a Nile cruise.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do you need in Luxor?
Two days: one for the West Bank tombs and one for the East Bank temples.
Is the Luxor hot air balloon worth it?
Yes for most travellers. A sunrise flight gives a memorable view of the temples and the Nile.
Plan it with a local team
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