Luxor is often called the world's greatest open-air museum, and from Sharm el-Sheikh you can reach it in a day by air. A guided day trip flies you across the desert to Luxor, where a guide drives you between the major sights on the banks of the Nile. Tours of this type usually combine temples on the east bank, such as Karnak and Luxor Temple, with sites on the west bank, which commonly include the Valley of the Kings and a mortuary temple, plus a lunch break and some time at a viewpoint over the river. You then fly back to Sharm in the evening. The exact list of stops depends on the operator, the opening hours and the flight times, so ask what your day includes. It is a fast day for such a rich place, so think of it as a sampler of ancient Egypt rather than a deep visit.
What the day looks like
You are collected from your hotel early for the airport, take a domestic flight to Luxor and meet your guide. The temples of Karnak, with their forest of enormous columns, are the core of the east bank, and Luxor Temple, lit beautifully at night but also impressive by day, is close by.
Crossing the Nile, the west bank holds the royal tombs cut into the cliffs. Visitors normally enter a few tombs from a selection, and the rules about which tombs are open and which cost extra change over time, so ask your guide.
Heat and pace
Luxor is much hotter than the coast in summer, and sites involve long stretches in the sun. Go in autumn, winter or spring if you can, wear a hat and light long clothes, drink plenty of water and wear comfortable shoes. Because of the flight schedule, the day is tightly timed, and you will have less time at each site than on a longer visit.
What is included and what is not: the package usually covers the domestic flights, transfers and a guide, but entry fees to individual sites, extra tombs and a lunch can vary by operator. Bring cash for tips and for optional extras, and carry your passport for the flights. Photography rules differ from site to site, and cameras may need an extra ticket in some places.
Is it worth it? If you love ancient history, Luxor is among the best places on earth for it, and a day is a worthwhile taster. If you would like to dig deeper, consider a trip of two days or more, or a Nile cruise. If you would rather see only one major site from Sharm, the Pyramids of Giza are the other classic choice. Check your government's current travel advice for Egypt before you book.
Getting the most from it
Start with the sights that matter most to you, since the schedule leaves little room for lingering. Ask your guide to explain the layout of Karnak before you walk in, because the complex is huge and a little background makes the columns and reliefs far more meaningful. Carry small notes for tips and for the toilets, bring a hat and sunglasses and keep your phone charged, since you will use it for photographs.
If you enjoy the day, consider a longer stay in Luxor on a future trip, when you can see the sights at a slower pace and visit them early in the morning.
What to expect
The experience
A guided day trip with domestic flights between Sharm el-Sheikh and Luxor and visits to the main temples and tombs on both banks of the Nile.
Best time
Autumn, winter and spring are the most comfortable; in summer Luxor is extremely hot, so carry water and wear a hat.
How long
A full day, with an early start and a return in the evening, depending on the flight times.
Tips
Carry your passport, wear light long clothes and comfortable shoes, bring cash for tips and extra tomb or camera fees and confirm what the tour includes.
Quick picks
- Best for
- History lovers who want a taste of Thebes without leaving the Red Sea for several nights.
- Families
- Fine for older children who enjoy history; for young ones the heat and the early start are the hard parts.
- Couples
- A memorable day, though the pace is quick, so choose the cooler months if you can.
- Pair with
- A relaxing beach day afterwards, or the Pyramids trip if you want both classic Egyptian sights.
- Time needed
- One full day.
Good questions
Can you really visit Luxor in a day from Sharm el-Sheikh?+
Yes, by air. It is a long day with an early start and a late return, and you see the highlights rather than everything.
What will I see?+
Tours typically include temples such as Karnak and Luxor Temple and sites on the west bank such as the Valley of the Kings. The exact list varies by operator, so ask before booking.
Are tomb and temple entry fees included?+
Not always. Entry to extra tombs and cameras can be charged separately, so ask your operator what is covered and bring some cash.
When is the best time to go?+
Autumn to spring. Luxor can be extremely hot in summer, so go early in the day and drink plenty of water.
Should I choose Luxor or the Pyramids?+
Both are excellent. Luxor offers more temples and tombs, while Giza offers the Pyramids and the Sphinx. Choose by which interests you most.
