Built on the site of ancient Thebes, Luxor is split by the Nile into the living East Bank and the funerary West Bank. A little planning goes a long way here, so here are the three sights no first-time visitor should miss.
The Karnak Temple Complex
The largest religious building ever constructed, Karnak grew over 2,000 years. Its Great Hypostyle Hall — a forest of 134 towering columns — is one of the most awe-inspiring spaces in the ancient world. Allow at least two hours.
The Valley of the Kings
On the West Bank lie the rock-cut tombs of pharaohs including Tutankhamun and Ramesses the Great. The painted ceilings and walls are astonishingly vivid. Buy tickets for a few tombs and go early, as the valley gets very hot by midday.
Luxor Temple After Dark
Save Luxor Temple for the evening, when the columns are floodlit and the avenue of sphinxes glows against the night sky. Right in the heart of the modern town, it is the perfect end to a day of exploring.
