Want to know where to stay in Luxor? Explore the best areas and hotels for your trip.
It’s easy to see the potential for a trip to Luxor to overwhelm even the most intrepid visitors.
While other Egyptian cities showcase one or two landmarks (or three pyramids), Luxor doesn’t have to go far out of its way to outshine all of them.
There’s so much to see that it’s a tough gig working out how to fit it all in – and that’s all before you get to your accommodation.
I hear you, I was in the same boat on my recent Egypt trip. I spent countless time working out where all the different attractions were and where the best area was to base myself during my time in the historic city.
Now I’m passing that knowledge onto you with this guide to the best places to stay in Luxor, Egypt.
Best Places to Stay in Luxor: At a Glance
| Best Hotels in Luxor – Top Picks | Hotel |
| Best Overall Hotel in Luxor | Hotel Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor |
| Best Luxor Hotel on the West Bank | Al Moudira Hotel |
| Best Luxor Hotel on the East Bank | Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa |
| Best Hotel in Luxor for Luxury Stays | Steigenberger Nile Palace Luxor |
Where to Stay in Luxor, Egypt?
As the ancient capital of Upper Egypt, the Nile divides the city into the east and west banks. Both have a unique appeal and atmosphere, and that’s not even talking about the many sites that you can visit.
Before you jump the gun and follow the typical trends of most who venture to the city, you’ll need to delve into the possible answers for “Where to stay in Luxor, East or West Bank?”. Many head directly for the East, but the West Bank holds just as much potential.
East Bank: The Best Area to Stay in Luxor, Egypt
Okay, to be fair, when you consider that Luxor Temple, one of Egypt’s most fantastic attractions, resides along the East Bank, it makes sense to stay here. Of course, it also sits right next to Karnak Temple and the Karnak Museum, adding to the allure.
You’ll also find the most extensive collection of luxury hotels and resorts on the East Bank, partially due to the breathtaking views of the Nile. It’s also considered the central city area of Luxor, so there are plenty of restaurants as well, and most locals live in this part of the city.
East Bank Highlights
Karnak Temple
The second largest temple complex in the world (Angkor Wat in Cambodia takes first place), Karnak Temple took over 2,000 years to construct. Throughout these many years, roughly 30 pharaohs added either a temple, monument, or building to the complex.
Today, the four main sections of Karnak comprise the second most visited site in Egypt after the Pyramids of Giza.
Luxor Temple
At first glance, you may think that Luxor Temple, dating back to 1400 BC, appears to be a smaller version of Karnak. But it potentially served a very different purpose than the many temples in and around the city.
Historians believe that Luxor Temple served as the site where the crowning of numerous kings of ancient Egypt took place.
Avenue of the Sphinxes
Now, I know the word “recent” might be relative when talking about the historic sites in Luxor that can fill out your Egypt itinerary, but the Avenue of the Sphinxes only opened in 2021. This 1.7-mile processional road consists of about 1350 sphinxes.
The convenience of this landmark attraction hasn’t lost its value, considering that it directly links Karnak and Luxor Temple, so there’s no reason not to walk it.
Suggested Luxor Hotels on the East Bank
Hotel Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor
If you’ve ever wanted to stay overnight in an actual palace, don’t be afraid to splurge on a stay at the Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor. With its history of hosting royalty and celebrities alike, you can bet you’re in for a world of luxury, and the Nile River views are second to none.
Steigenberger Nile Palace Luxor
The 5-star Steigenberger Nile Palace Luxor easily ranks as one of the best resort options in the entire city. The interior design blends modern styling with Egyptian elements, while several restaurants are on-site, and Luxor Temple is a 5-minute walk away.
Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa
World-class service and opulence take physical form at the Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa, situated directly on the bank of the Nile River. The resort boasts numerous infinity pools and seven distinct on-site restaurants, while uninterrupted views across the river frame it all.
Pavillon Winter Luxor
The Pavillon Winter Luxor, resting on the eastern shores of the Nile River, is a 5-star accommodation unlike any other. Its appeal lies in the elegance of its design and the lush nature surrounding it, while all of Luxor’s attractions are within walking distance.
Sonesta St. George Hotel
Offering you the opportunity to live in the lap of luxury, the Sonesta St. George Hotel delivers knockout blows and ticks every box. Rooms feature either glorious views of the bustling city or calming scenes of the river, while both Luxor Temple and Luxor Museum sit nearby.
West Bank: The Other Best Area to Stay in Luxor, Egypt
Before you eye-roll me out of existence, yes, the West Bank of Luxor is equally worthy of wearing the crown as the best area to stay in when visiting. How could the region where the Valley of the Kings rests be anything else?
This is, after all, where you’ll find the Tomb of Tutankhamun and that of Seti I, to name but a few. As for female representation, the West Bank boasts the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut and the Tomb of Nefertari. Clearly, this is where your ancient Egypt Indiana Jones fantasies await.
West Bank Highlights
Colossi of Memnon
As you gaze out over the West Bank, two imposing statues, twin depictions of Amenhotep III, wait to greet you. Known as the Colossi of Memnon, these statues originally stood guard over the pharaoh’s mortuary temple.
The best bit? Visiting the Colossi is absolutely free, which gives you enough reason to snap as many Instagram-worthy selfies as possible.
The Valley of the Kings
The royal burial ground known worldwide, The Valley of the Kings, is why thousands visit Luxor yearly. Pharaohs from the 18th, 19th, and 20th dynasties have their final resting spots here, most notably the Tomb of Tutankhamun.
While an estimated 60 tombs are in the relatively small valley, currently, only eight are open to the public.
The Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut
Queen Hatshepsut, who ruled over Egypt for 20 years, bringing unimaginable wealth, ranks high among history’s most famous female rulers. So, it’s no surprise that her most outstanding architectural achievement is a standout attraction.
As one of the most popular sites on the West Bank on the cliffs of Deir el-Bahri, the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut draws immense crowds and delivers equally huge rewards.
Suggested Luxor Hotels on the West Bank
Al Moudira Hotel
As the only palace situated on the West Bank of Luxor, the Al Moudira Hotel is quintessentially Egyptian and a boutique property in every sense. Ornate domes, arabesque patios, and the renowned Great Room Restaurant make it a standout.
Malkata House
Nestled on the edge of the Egyptian desert close to the Valley of the Kings, Malkata House is a premier choice in the West Bank. It’s one of the best places to stay if you plan on taking a hot-air balloon over Luxor. On-site, you’ll find a lush garden and restaurant serving the best international cuisine.
Nile Panorama Hotel
Enjoying the best of Luxor doesn’t have to come with a high price tag, and the superbly-rated Nile Panorama Hotel is a great, affordable, and well-located option. Nearby attractions include the Colossi of Memnon, and on-site amenities feature a splendid rooftop pool.
New Memnon Hotel
Located within the Theban Necropolis, the New Memnon Hotel gives you easy access to sites like the Colossi of Memnon. With brightly decorated rooms, a rooftop coffee bar, and a restaurant specialising in local cuisine, few options are as good as this on the West Bank.
Nile Castle
Another stellar option on the West Bank is the Nile Castle. Rooms showcase classic design and decor while boasting balconies with views of the Nile River. Apartment options include a sun terrace, the ideal lounging space as you enjoy the feel of Egypt in one of its greatest cities.
Where to Stay in Luxor: Frequently Asked Questions
Depending on what you expect from your adventures in Luxor, the best area to stay will differ. Thanks to the perfect combination of hotel choices, dining and retail opportunities, and numerous attractions, the East Bank is the best area, although the West is equally great.
If you don’t mind fast-paced travelling, you can experience many of Luxor’s highlights in roughly two days. On the other hand, plan to spend at least four days to take in all the city genuinely has to offer.
So, if you want to explore at your own pace, the best way to get around Luxor is to hire a car and driver for the day. Alternatively, tour buses do the trick, but you must stick to a timetable.
Practical Tips to Consider Before Booking Your Luxor Accommodation
- Decide where you want to stay in Luxor based on the attractions you want to visit. While you can see the best of both banks regardless of where you base yourself, booking accommodation to match your itinerary is a good idea.
- If you want to get the best deals on accommodation in Luxor, use services like Booking.com.
- Book your stay ahead of time. This is a no-brainer, as Luxor is a tourist nirvana. Accommodation options fill up quicker than you can blink.
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