Map of Luxor Egypt – Temples, Museums & Visitor Guide

Luxor is one of the world's greatest archaeological destinations and is often described as the world's largest open-air museum. Situated on the east bank of the Nile in southern Egypt, the city is surrounded by extraordinary temples, royal tombs and ancient monuments that formed the heart of the New Kingdom capital of Thebes.

Modern Luxor serves as the gateway to many of Egypt's most famous archaeological sites, including Luxor Temple, Karnak Temple, the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut and the Valley of the Queens. Together these monuments form the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as Ancient Thebes with its Necropolis.

This map of Luxor Egypt provides a location guide to the city centre, Luxor Temple, Karnak Temple, the Nile Corniche, museums, transport connections and nearby attractions.

Quick Answer

Luxor is located on the east bank of the Nile River in southern Egypt, approximately 650 kilometres south of Cairo. The city is divided between the bustling east bank, home to Luxor Temple and Karnak Temple, and the west bank, where the Valley of the Kings and many other famous archaeological sites are located.

Map of Luxor Egypt

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Where Is Luxor Located?

Luxor lies along the Nile River in Upper Egypt and occupies the site of ancient Thebes, once the capital of Egypt during the New Kingdom. The city is connected by bridges, ferries, rail services and an international airport, making it one of the country's easiest historical destinations to reach.

The east bank contains Luxor's hotels, restaurants, shopping areas, museums and the great temple complexes of Luxor Temple and Karnak Temple. Across the Nile, the west bank contains the royal necropolis, including the Valley of the Kings, Temple of Hatshepsut, Medinet Habu and the Colossi of Memnon.

City Features

• UNESCO World Heritage setting
• Luxor Temple
• Karnak Temple Complex
• Nile River and Corniche
• Luxor Museum
• Mummification Museum
• Luxor Souk
• Luxor Railway Station
• Nile cruise terminals
• International airport
• East Bank accommodation district
• Gateway to West Bank archaeological sites

Top Attractions Nearby

• Luxor Temple
• Karnak Temple
• Luxor Museum
• Mummification Museum
• Luxor Souk
• Valley of the Kings
• Temple of Hatshepsut
• Valley of the Queens
• Medinet Habu
• Colossi of Memnon
• Deir el-Medina
• Nile River

Transport and Getting Around

Luxor is served by Luxor International Airport, Egypt's national railway network and numerous long-distance coach services. Nile cruise vessels also connect Luxor with Aswan, allowing visitors to experience several major archaeological sites along the river.

Within the city, taxis, private drivers, horse carriages and organised tours provide easy access to both the east and west banks. Many visitors use the public ferry or road bridge to cross the Nile before exploring the archaeological sites on the western side.

Best Areas to Explore

The east bank is ideal for walking between Luxor Temple, the Nile Corniche, museums and local markets. Evening visits to Luxor Temple are particularly popular when the ancient columns and statues are illuminated.

The west bank contains Egypt's most famous royal tombs and mortuary temples. A full day is usually required to explore the Valley of the Kings, Temple of Hatshepsut, Medinet Habu and surrounding monuments.

Nearby Destinations

• Karnak
• Valley of the Kings
• Temple of Hatshepsut
• Valley of the Queens
• Medinet Habu
• Colossi of Memnon
• Esna
• Edfu
• Aswan
• Nile River

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Luxor located?

Luxor is located on the east bank of the Nile River in southern Egypt, approximately 650 kilometres south of Cairo.

What is Luxor famous for?

Luxor is famous for its extraordinary concentration of ancient Egyptian monuments, including Luxor Temple, Karnak Temple, the Valley of the Kings and the Temple of Hatshepsut.

Which side of the Nile should visitors stay on?

Most visitors stay on the east bank because it offers the largest range of hotels, restaurants, transport connections and easy access to Luxor Temple and Karnak Temple.

How long should visitors spend in Luxor?

Most travellers spend between two and four days exploring both the east and west banks and taking optional excursions to nearby archaeological sites.

Can you visit Luxor without a tour?

Yes. Many attractions are easily reached independently by taxi, ferry, private driver or organised local transport.

Is Luxor worth visiting?

Yes. Luxor is one of the world's greatest archaeological destinations and is widely regarded as an essential stop on any trip to Egypt.

Related Maps

Disclaimer

This guide is provided for general travel information only. Attraction opening hours, admission fees, transport services, ferry operations, Nile cruise schedules and local conditions may change. Always check official sources before travelling.