Seven Things to do in Luxor
By Flavor Republic
Luxor. An archaeological treasure trove ballooning with tombs and temples. Time and time again, travellers who set foot in ancient Thebes have hailed it as one of the world’s most grandiose open-air museums. The way the modern city has mushroomed among the ruins of ancient Egypt lends it a particular charm, and maneuvering between its sights makes you wonder about the different types of people who, thousands of years ago; occupied the streets that now lay in between.
The Nile River, in its purest, bluest form, cuts the city in half. The Karnak and Luxor temples stand tall on the east side, like beacons of civilization amid the city’s contemporary landscape. Key sights on the east side also include the Luxor and the mummification museums, the latter a modern day iteration of the ancient ritual. Meanwhile, the west bank is home to Valley of the Kings, Valley of the Queens, The Ramesseum and Tombs of the Nobles, among several other notable attractions.
The best time to visit Luxor is between October and April, when temperatures hover around the mid-twenties throughout the hours of day. So if you’re feeling adventurous or have a penchant for ancient civilizations, pack your bags and take a short trip to explore Egypt’s south.
Here are our favorite activities to do while in Luxor:
Banana Island
A banana plantation situated off the coast of Luxor. The island itself is home to a few hundred people and around 90 percent of its land bears bananas.
Alabaster making
Like their ancestors before them, contemporary craftsmen use hammer-stones to morph the light-colored stone into small statues, obelisks, vases and ashtrays. This stop makes for a great moment to buy souvenirs.
Felluca ride
Catch the gentle waves of the Nile as they lap up against the thin, ubiquitous boats. Perfect for a sunset excursion.
Valley of the Kings
Ancient Egypt’s royal figures are said to be buried in this stretch of land, known to contain a total of 63 tombs and chambers. It’s a world heritage sight and is home to Tutankhamen’s tomb.
Ramesseum
The memorial temple of Ramses II, with its wide gateways, vast courtyards and calm chambers. Despite restoration efforts, much of the temple is in ruins today.
Marsam, a boutique hotel
Situated on the west side of the Nile, this historical lodge is more famous as Sheikh Ali’s Hotel. Artists, archeologists and researchers are said to have spent time here in the 1920s and 30s, and the hotel still prides itself as a meeting point for anyone passing through the city.
Luxor spice market
Markets are excellent for sampling food and buying souvenirs, but to get to the good stuff you need to be ready to dig, and to bargain. The spices section will woo you instantly with its colorful aromas. Suitable for an evening stroll.
