Luxor Visitor Guide

What is it like in Luxor today?

Winter Palace

We will soon be starting our 8th year of living permanently in Luxor and the answer to the question is that it is the most magical of places. Steeped in history Luxor, on the banks of the river Nile, is one place in the world that you will never forget. Known as Thebes in ancient times Luxor has the impressive Luxor temple that stands by the Nile right in the middle of town and within walking distance of many hotels.

Your First Evening Free in Luxor ..... What to do!

First of all .... GET OUT OF YOUR HOTEL .... and go and enjoy yourself. We never cease to be amazed by the number of visitors that never leave their hotel unless on a guided tour. If you are a little worried about leaving your hotel, please don´t be, as we have always found Luxor to be safer than any european city, even during the changes of 2011. Luxor has a very liberal dress code for tourists, but you will be treated much better if you dress respectfully. Problems can happen anywhere but Egyptians are dependant on tourism so it is in their best interest to look after you, and they do this very well. We have never had any worries about walking around Luxor at any time of day or night.

for details of our favourite circular walk around the centre of Luxor which we hope you will enjoy.

When you visit Luxor please do not be too hasty to buy anything until you have had a chance to have a look around on your own. In general things are much cheaper here, than would be suggested by the prices in your hotel.

When you leave your hotel for the first time it is a good idea to ensure that each of you pick up one of the hotel leaflets, usually available from reception and hopefully it will have a picture of the hotel on it. You can then show this to the taxi or calash driver in order that they will know exactly where to take you, when you wish to get back to your hotel.

Luxor is the hassle capital of the world but it is all usually very friendly, and prices around town are much lower than the shops your reps or guides will take you to. Yes everybody wants to be your friend, especially as you have the money that will feed their family, so they will all try and get you to buy something. Even to seasoned visitors all the hassle can sometimes be quite wearing. Do be firm, not rude, if you do not wish to go into someone´s shop, but it is a good idea to only ask the price if you are interested in buying, as this starts the bartering process. English is widely spoken and it is an Egyptian custom to offer you a welcome drink. If you are unsure about drinking Egyptian teas (we sometimes struggle with them, especially flavoured varieties) just ask for a Coke, Fanta or Sprite. Obviously they hope you buy something from them, though you are under no obligation, and by just sitting and having a chat you can learn so much about the Egyptian way of life in a very short time, and they are happy to talk as it improves their English. Have a wander around the town and buy a few bits and pieces, if you want to, and there is always a taxi or calash nearby to take you back to your hotel.

Click Here for our circular walk around the centre of Luxor.

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