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With year-round sunshine, awe-inspiring temples, and an atmosphere steeped in history, Luxor is a paradise for culture and adventure seekers. The city is easily accessible from most places in Egypt, and if you’re coming from Cairo, you can take the train – an experience in itself.
At Østerland, we love traveling in the Middle East, where we collaborate with skilled artisans. We always seek out unique experiences: charming boutique hotels, family-run restaurants, local artisans, and vibrant markets.
We recommend spending 2-3 days in Luxor to experience the best of the city. Here are our top tips for an unforgettable weekend.
Where to Stay?
Al Moudira – A Luxurious Oasis in Luxor
Looking for a peaceful retreat away from the city’s hustle and bustle? Al Moudira is a serene hideaway with shaded courtyards, palm trees, and trickling fountains. Start your day with breakfast in the sun, take a dip in the pool, and end with a dinner under the stars accompanied by live music.
Bonus: The hotel boutique features handcrafted pieces from Østerland’s Syrian artisans in Istanbul – a perfect place to find a special souvenir.
Marsam Hotel – Stay Among the Temples
For those who want to stay close to Luxor’s archaeological wonders, Marsam Hotel is an excellent choice. One of the city’s oldest hotels, it offers breathtaking views of the mountains and is often frequented by Egyptologists and archaeologists – so you might find yourself in a fascinating conversation over breakfast.
Shopping & Handicrafts
Aboudi Bookstore – A Treasure Trove for Book Lovers
Address: 28 Karnak Temple St
For those who love history, this family-run bookstore from 1909 is a must-visit. The shelves are filled with books on Egyptology and the Middle East, making it the perfect place to pick up reading material for the rest of your trip.
Alabaster Workshops – Watch Craftsmanship Come to Life
Luxor is famous for its alabaster artisans, who carve and shape stone into beautiful vases, lamps, and figurines. Many workshops welcome visitors, allowing you to watch skilled craftsmen at work.
Ata Bazaar – Hassle-Free Shopping Near Luxor Temple
Forget the usual bargaining marathon. Ata Bazaar promises a “hassle-free” shopping experience with fair, fixed prices and friendly sellers. Osama and Hamada will welcome you to this cozy gift shop located right in front of Luxor Temple.
Where to Eat?
Sofra – Traditional Egyptian Cuisine in a Cozy Setting
For an authentic Egyptian dining experience, Sofra serves lamb tagine and mezze in a warm and inviting atmosphere. The service is friendly, and the food is delicious – but keep in mind that, like many restaurants in Luxor, Sofra does not serve alcohol.
Al Sahaby Lane – Dine with a View of Luxor Temple
This charming rooftop restaurant offers stunning views of Luxor Temple and serves a great selection of traditional Egyptian dishes, including koshari, grilled kebabs, and fresh fish. Bonus: It’s one of the few restaurants in Luxor where you can enjoy a local beer with your meal.
Temples & Museums You Shouldn’t Miss
Valley of the Kings – Walk in the Footsteps of Pharaohs
No visit to Luxor is complete without exploring the Valley of the Kings, the burial site of pharaohs like Tutankhamun and Ramses II. The tombs are decorated with vibrant wall paintings that remain astonishingly well-preserved after thousands of years.
Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut – The Legacy of a Powerful Queen
Queen Hatshepsut was one of Egypt’s most powerful rulers, and her mortuary temple in Deir el-Bahri is an architectural masterpiece. Carved into the cliffs, its unique design makes it stand out from all other temples in Egypt.
Karnak Temple – One of the Largest Temple Complexes in the World
With its gigantic columns and sacred lake, Karnak Temple is one of the most breathtaking sites in Egypt. Stroll through the famous Hypostyle Hall, and imagine how the pharaohs once walked these same paths.
Luxor Temple – Magical at Sunset
Luxor Temple is especially stunning just before sunset when the warm light casts dramatic shadows across the colossal statues and towering pillars. The temple is connected to Karnak by the Avenue of Sphinxes, a two-kilometer-long path lined with sphinx statues.
Bonus Experience: A Nile Sailing Trip
Want to see Luxor from a different perspective? Take a felucca (traditional sailboat) at sunset and glide along the Nile as the golden light reflects off the water. A peaceful and unforgettable way to end your day.
Luxor is a city that blends history, culture, and charm, making it the perfect destination for a short getaway. Whether you’re wandering through ancient temples, savoring local cuisine, or simply enjoying the atmosphere, this trip is bound to leave a lasting impression.
