Best Things to Do in Luxor, Egypt: 2-Day Travel Guide

We spent 2 days in Luxor, Egypt, and it was the best part of our entire trip! Luxor is a history lover’s dream and an essential stop on any trip to Egypt. Known as the world’s greatest open-air museum, this city is home to some of the most magnificent ancient sites in all of Egypt. If you’re short on time, don’t worry, this 2-day itinerary covers the very best of Luxor with the help of a local tour guide.

How to Get to Luxor from Cairo (Flights, Trains, Buses)

Flights: The Fastest Option

Tickets can be booked through airline websites or travel platforms like booking.com. There are many different options, but I highly recommend choosing an early flight to the the most of your first day and a later flight for your return to Cairo.

• Airlines: EgyptAir and Air Cairo offer direct flights from Cairo International Airport (CAI) to Luxor International Airport (LXR).
• Flight Duration: Approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes.
• Frequency: Multiple flights daily, with EgyptAir operating up to 39 weekly direct flights.
• Cost: Prices vary based on booking time and season. We paid under 250 USD for round-trip tickets.

Trains: A Scenic Journey

• Operators: Egyptian National Railways offers various classes, including First Class, VIP, and Sleeper trains.
• Departure Station: Ramses Station in Cairo.
• Arrival Station: Luxor Railway Station.
• Duration: Approximately 9 to 12 hours, depending on the train type.
• Cost: Prices vary by class and train type.
• Booking: Tickets can be purchased at stations or through authorized travel agents

Buses: Budget-Friendly Travel

• Operators: Blue Bus, Go Bus Egypt, and White Bus Egypt.
• Departure Points: Various locations in Cairo, including Ramses Station and Nasr City.
• Arrival Point: Luxor Bus Station.
• Duration: Approximately 9 to 10 hours.
• Cost: Tickets range from $4 to $16, depending on the operator and class.
• Booking: Tickets can be booked online through the respective bus company websites or at their offices

Where to Stay in Luxor: Best Hotel + Hidden Gem

Located on the West Bank of the Nile, Al Moudira Hotel is an oasis of style, color and calm. Unlike any other hotel in Egypt, this palatial estate blends Arabesque architecture with bohemian luxury. From the tiled courtyards to the hand-painted ceilings, every corner is a photo op. Be sure to spend a day relaxing by the beautiful pool and visit the restaurants, both are highly recommended. Bonus: it’s just a short drive to all the major West Bank sites.

Best Full-Day Private Tour in Luxor: What to Expect

If you want to experience Luxor’s top highlights in one unforgettable day, I highly recommend booking this Luxor East and West Bank Private Full-Day Tour– this is exactly the itinerary we followed on day two, and it covered all the must-see wonders while avoiding the crowds.

Here’s the order of stops on our tour:

Luxor Temple: Walk Through Ancient History

We started the day at Luxor Temple, where towering statues and carved hieroglyphics tell stories of Egypt’s ancient rulers. This site connects to Karnak via the ancient Avenue of Sphinxes and is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

Karnak Temple: Exploring the Hypostyle Hall

Next, we explored Karnak, one of the largest religious complexes in the world. The Hypostyle Hall, with its 134 massive stone columns, is an absolute showstopper — you truly feel transported back in time.

Colossi of Memnon: Giant Statues of the West Bank

On our way to the West Bank, we made a quick stop at the Colossi of Memnon — two giant statues that have stood for over 3,000 years. It’s the perfect spot for a photo and to hear some local legends from your guide.

Hatshepsut’s Mortuary Temple: Egypt’s Queen Pharaoh

This magnificent temple, carved right into the cliffs, honors Egypt’s first female pharaoh. Its terraces and grand design make it one of the most striking architectural feats in Egypt.

Valley of the Kings: Inside the Tombs of Pharaohs

We ended our tour at the Valley of the Kings, exploring the hidden tombs of ancient pharaohs, including Tutankhamun. The colorful wall art inside the tombs is unbelievably well preserved and a true highlight of the day.

Final Thoughts

Luxor completely exceeded our expectations! It was without a doubt the highlight of our entire Egypt trip. From standing in the shadows of colossal temples to wandering through the tombs of ancient kings, every moment felt like a step back in time. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography lover, or simply craving adventure, Luxor offers something unforgettable.

If you’re planning your own Egyptian getaway, make sure to give Luxor at least two full days, but i highly recommend more.

Ready to plan your own trip? Feel free to drop any questions in the comments or check out the links I’ve shared. I’m happy to help fellow travelers make the most of their journey through this magical city!