Known as the world’s greatest “open-air museum”, the ancient Egyptian capital of Luxor is an archaeologist’s dream with temples, monuments, and tombs to discover. Day trips to Luxor from Hurghada are one of the most popular excursions in Egypt.

Millions of tourists come to Luxor each year to explore sites such as the Karnak Temple, Luxor Museum, and the Valley of the Kings which is where the tomb of Tutankhamun was found.

Here's all you need to know about Luxor, one of the best destinations for day trips from Hurghada.

How to get to Luxor from Hurghada?

Sitting on the eastern bank of the River Nile, Luxor is 500 kilometers south of Cairo and 290 kilometers southwest of Hurghada. The easiest and most stress-free way to do a day trip to Luxor from Hurghada is on a guided tour because independent travel can be quite a challenge.

From Hurghada to Luxor by car

The journey from Hurghada to Luxor by car is about four hours, but few visitors take to the roads on their own. It is possible to hire a private car transfer to Luxor from Hurghada if you prefer to travel independently, but you will get much more out of a visit with a professional guide.

Guided tours to Luxor from Hurghada

There are many different options for guided Luxor day trips, during which you will visit multiple archaeological sites in small groups or on private tours. Transport is by air-conditioned bus or a private vehicle, and pick-ups are usually from your hotel in Hurghada.

What is the typical itinerary of a day tour to Luxor from Hurghada?

Day tours to Luxor begin with an early-morning departure from your hotel in Hurghada. Then you will enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Red Sea mountains and the River Nile on the four-hour coach transfer.

On arrival in the city, you will visit several archaeological sites such as the Temple of Karnak, Valley of the Kings, Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, and the Colossi of Memnon. There will be a lunch break and the chance to enjoy some free time in Luxor for shopping, before returning to Hurghada in the evening.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Luxor?

There are several different day trips to Luxor from Hurghada, ranging from guided group tours and private transfers to overnight stays and even Nile cruises.

Before booking, consider the length of time you want to spend on your Luxor jaunt, the type of transport you prefer, and whether you want to visit other attractions in the area.

Group Tours to Luxor from Hurghada

After being picked up at your Hurghada hotel and driven to Luxor by bus, you will arrive in the land of the pharaohs for guided tours of the Temple of Karnak, Valley of the Kings, Colossi of Memnon and Temple of Queen Hatshepsut. Lunch at a city restaurant is included on this small-group tour.

Private Tours to Luxor from Hurghada

Your own private Luxor excursion includes air-conditioned minivan transport, a qualified Egyptologist guide, and entrance to several archaeological sites. Lunch and a traditional boat ride on the Nile are included.

Overnight Trip to Luxor from Hurghada

This private overnight tour allows you to explore the highlights of Luxor at a more leisurely pace. It includes a Nile cruise and an evening sound-and-light show at the temples as well as a night in a Luxor hotel.

5-Day Tour to Luxor plus Nile Cruise to Aswan from Hurghada

Follow in the footsteps of Tutankhamun as you enjoy a relaxing four-night cruise on the Nile, stopping at archaeological sights in Luxor, Esna, Edfu, and Kom Ombo along the way. Transfers from Hurghada are included.

How much does a tour to Luxor from Hurghada cost?

You want to make sure you get the right ticket for your Luxor tour, to avoid missing out on any of the popular sights. There are several different Luxor day trip options, including some that combine visits to other attractions for the best deal.

Luxor day trips start at $44 for the standard group day tour, including bus transport, guide, entrance to the sights, and lunch.

Private day trips to Luxor range from $123 to $222 per person. The price varies depending on the size of your group, the type of transportation, and the number of sights and activities included.

What will you see and do in Luxor?

Luxor is one of Egypt’s best historical sites, with a wealth of temples, tombs, and monuments to discover. Here are some of the top attractions you can see on your Luxor day trip:

The Valley of the Kings

The most famous collection of Egyptian tombs is the Valley of the Kings, which is situated on the banks of the Nile just outside Luxor. For centuries pharaohs and nobles such as the boy-king Tutankhamun were buried in tombs in what is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Temple of Karnak

This vast temple complex is the most impressive sight in Luxor, with towering monuments and mighty columns giving a glimpse into ancient Egypt.

Luxor Temple

Luxor Temple is a testament to the changes that have taken place in Egypt over the years. Originally constructed as an Egyptian temple with a chapel of deities and a large hall, it has subsequently been used as a Christian church and an Islamic mosque.

Colossi of Memnon

The Collossi of Memnon, two imposing statues of pharaohs have survived floods, earthquakes, and looters for 3,400 years and are considered wonders of the ancient world.

Temple of Queen Hatshepsut

Hatshepsut was one of the most successful ancient Egyptian pharaohs and Hatshepsut Temple built into the cliffs is a must-see in Luxor.

Nile Cruise

Short river trips on the Nile in traditional felucca boats are included in some tours, while longer multi-day cruises offer stops at Esna, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Aswan, as well as Luxor.

When are Luxor temples open over the year?

The temples and monuments of Luxor are open to visitors throughout the year.

What are the opening times?

Many archaeological sights in Luxor open early in the morning at around 6 am and tend to close between 5 pm and 7 pm. Your tour guide will advise on how long you have at each destination.

When is the best time to visit Luxor?

The best time of year to visit Luxor is March and April and also October and November when the temperature is more pleasant and there are fewer other visitors. December and January are the peak months for tourism so sights will be much busier during this time.

Are there any tours to Luxor from other cities in Egypt?

Luxor is one of the most important archeological sites in Egypt. Therefore, tours are departing from different cities of Egypt, which lead to Luxor. If you are staying in a different city than Hurghada, take a look at these pages:

Travel tips

Book your Luxor day trip tickets in advance as they do sell out fast.
Pack sunscreen, sun hats, and water to combat the heat as some of the sights are very exposed with little shade.
Make sure your camera batteries are fully charged as you will be taking a lot of photos.
Wear comfortable footwear and loose clothing as you will be walking around in the sun.
Visit during spring or fall for the best weather and fewer crowds.
Change some money into Egyptian Pounds to spend in the souvenir shops in Luxor.

Luxor: Day Trips and Tours from Hurghada