Luxor is built on both banks of the Nile. The modern town, Karnak and Luxor Temple are on the East Bank; the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut’s temple and the tombs of the nobles are on the West Bank. Where you stay decides how you spend your mornings and evenings, so it is worth choosing carefully.
The areas, and how they differ
- The East Bank Corniche: the riverside road through the town, with the historic and the large international hotels, Nile views, and Luxor Temple, the souk and restaurants within walking distance.
- South of the town centre: larger resort hotels with gardens and pools along the river, a short drive from the sights.
- The West Bank: quiet villages among sugar-cane fields, with small hotels and guesthouses close to the tombs and temples, and the earliest start for a sunrise balloon flight.
A hotel or a Nile cruise?
Many visitors stay in Luxor on a Nile cruise, which spends one or two nights moored at Luxor before or after sailing to Aswan. Staying in a hotel gives you more time: Dendera and Abydos, a second day on the West Bank, or simply time by the pool.
What to ask before booking
- Is the room on the Nile side? Sunset over the West Bank is one of the views of the trip.
- Which bank? The East Bank is better for the evenings, the West Bank for quiet and early starts.
- Is there a good pool and shade? Afternoons in Luxor are hot for much of the year.
- How far is it to Karnak and to the ferry or bridge to the West Bank?
When to go
October to April is the best time for sightseeing. From May to September it is very hot, so plan early starts and afternoons at the hotel. On 2 August 2027 a total solar eclipse passes over Luxor, and hotels will be full months ahead: see our eclipse guide.
Christmas & New Year in Cairo & Luxor
Want to see this for yourself? This trip covers it.
View This TripGetting there
Luxor International Airport is about 15 minutes from the town, with flights from Cairo and seasonal flights from Europe. Hurghada is about four hours by road. Plan your days with our Luxor tours.
Help choosing
We book across Luxor and know which properties have a sandy beach and which a reef, which are quiet and which lively, and which suit families, couples or divers. Tell us how you want to spend your stay and we will shortlist against it: talk to us, or browse the hotels we work with.





























