
Luxor Temple was built over 3,400 years ago and that’s older than the Roman Empire, the Great Wall of China and even most of the Greek temples. It is located on the East Bank of the Nile and it is part of World’s Greatest Open-Air Museum.
If you’re into history, ancient structures, or just want to flex your travel adventures on Instagram, then Luxor Temple should be at the top of your Egypt tours bucket list. This temple is located in the city of Luxor, and it’s nearly a time-traveling machine that takes you back to the days of pharaohs and ancient gods.
This guide will tell you everything you need to know before visiting the temple, including its history, who built it, the best time to visit, night tours, ticket prices, and things to do nearby. Are you planning a real trip? Or just exploring from your screen? Whatever it is … this is your best guide.
When was the Luxor Temple built?
First things first, How old is the Luxor Temple?
Luxor Temple was built around 1400 BCE, during Egypt’s New Kingdom period. This temple is over 3,400 years old and that’s older than the Roman Empire, the Great Wall of China and even most of the Greek temples.
Where is Luxor Temple located?
The Temple of Luxor Egypt is located on the East Bank of the Nile and it is part of what historians call World’s Greatest Open-Air Museum. Luxor was once known as Thebes which means the powerful capital of ancient Egypt.
Who constructed the Luxor Temple?
Several pharaohs had their hands on this temple… and it took centuries!
- Amenhotep III (1390 - 1352 BCE) started the foundation of the temple.
- Tutankhamun and Horemheb added their special touches.
- Then came Ramesses II, one of Egypt’s most famous rulers, who built the huge pylon (gateway) and added statues of himself (because why not?).
What is the Luxor Temple made out of?
Luxor Temple is constructed from sandstone; specifically Nubian sandstone from Gebel El Silsila area in South Western Egypt.
What Is the History of Luxor Temple?
There were those claims that Alexander the Great was crowned here, although historians think he never actually visited Luxor. Still he made sure a chapel was built in his name inside the temple. Talk about leaving your mark.
Best Time to Visit Luxor Temple
If you want to enjoy your Luxor Temple tour without melting in the sun, choosing the right time can save you.
The best time to visit Luxor Temple is:
- October to April (cool, comfortable weather)
- Or early morning (6 to 9 AM) and sunset time (around 5 PM)
Luxor summer can hit 45°C so winter in Luxor is much more enjoyable. The light is also chef’s kiss for photos during golden hour. Many Egypt travel packages plan Luxor visits during these ideal months to make sightseeing easier.
Pro tip: If you're on one of the Luxor day tours pair Luxor Temple with a morning visit to Karnak Temple for the full experience.
Can You Visit Luxor Temple at Night?
Yes, and you absolutely should! Night tours at Luxor Temple are one of the best experiences you can have in Egypt. Because when the sun sets the entire temple lights up with spotlights that cast shadows over statues and columns.
The vibes? Unreal!! You feel like you’re walking through a movie or wandering in another world. Plus, it’s cooler, less crowded, and the photos turn out amazing. Many Egypt luxury tours include night visits for this reason. Night entry starts around 6 PM and the temple closes at 10 PM.
Luxor Temple Entrance Fee, Opening Times and Travel Tips
Luxor Temple Tickets:
Foreign Visitors
- Adult: EGP 500 (around 10 Dollars)
- Student: EGP 250 (around 5 Dollars)
Egyptian/Arab Nationals
- Adult: EGP 40
- Student: EGP 20
Free Entry for children under 6 years, and Egyptians with special needs.
Note: Prices can change, so always double-check when booking with your Egypt classic tours provider.
Luxor Temple Opening Times:
- Open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Night tours usually start at sunset (around 6:00 PM) and are open until closing
Visiting in the early morning means cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, while evening visits can give a magical atmosphere with the lights on.
Some Interesting Facts About Luxor Temple
Here are some mind-blowing Luxor Temple facts for tourists:
- Its original name was "Ipet Resyt," which means “The Southern Sanctuary.”
- It is connected to Karnak Temple by a 2.7 km-long road called the Avenue of Sphinxes.
- The temple hosted the Opet Festival, where statues of Amun, Mut, and Khonsu were paraded down from Karnak to Luxor.
- The main entrance was built by Ramesses II complete with two 25-meter statues of himself.
- There is a mosque built right on top of part of the temple (Abu El-Haggag Mosque), showing what the site went through over the centuries.
- Carvings inside show real historical event,s including the Battle of Kadesh.
Things To Do Near Luxor Temple
Once you’ve explored the Temple of Luxor in Egypt, there’s still plenty to do nearby. Luxor is FULL of ancient wonders. If you’re in the area especially with one of the Egypt family packages or Luxor day tours, you’ll want to see more than just one temple.
1. Karnak Temple
Just a short walk or taxi ride from Luxor Temple, Karnak is one of the largest religious complexes in the world. It was the main worship center of the god Amun. If you were amazed by Luxor Temple, wait until you see the Hypostyle Hall, it’s a forest of towering columns. Most Egypt day tours make Karnak and Luxor temple visits together.
2. Avenue of Sphinxes
This newly restored 2.7 km road directly links Luxor Temple with Karnak Temple. It’s lined with hundreds of sphinx statues that were buried for centuries. You can now walk part of the avenue and imagine how it once hosted processions during ancient festivals.
3. Luxor Museum
It is located just minutes from the temple and it houses a collection of artifacts from tombs, temples and palaces around Luxor. Highlights include statues of Amenhotep III and actual mummies from the royal tombs. Plus it’s air-conditioned (always a win).
4. Felucca Ride on the Nile
Enjoy a felucca sailboat and have a peaceful ride on the Nile with our amazing Luxor and Aswan Nile cruises. Sunsets on the river are magical and it’s the perfect way to relax after a long day of sightseeing.
5. Cross to the West Bank
Take a short ferry or taxi boat to the other side of the Nile and explore the famous:
- Valley of the Kings (home of King Tut’s tomb)
- Hatshepsut’s Temple
- Colossi of Memnon
- Medinet Habu Temple
Many Egypt classic tours dedicate an entire day to these sites.
6. Local Markets (Souqs)
Head to the Luxor souq for a taste of modern Egyptian life. There, you will find spices, jewelry, handmade crafts and souvenirs. Practice your bargaining skills and do not forget to grab a cup of delicious mint tea while you're there.
How Can You Visit Luxor Temple?
Getting to the temple is easy. Be it solo or on one of the Egypt family packages:
- From Luxor International Airport it is about 20 - 30 minutes by taxi
- From Luxor train station it is 10-minute walk
- If you're on Egypt Nile cruise, you’ll mostly be just a few minutes away from the temple. Explore ancient Luxor like never before with our exclusive Dahabiya Nile Cruises packages.
- Taxis and tuk-tuks are cheap and available
Is Luxor Temple Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Be it that you’re a first-time visitor on one of the Egypt honeymoon tours or part of a group enjoying Egypt luxury tours, Luxor Temple must be on your itinerary. And if you’re already in Luxor? Never leave without seeing it.
Eventually, Luxor Temple is one of those places that photos just don’t do justice. You really have to stand there, look up at very detail and feel the history all around you. So enough scrolling! Go live it. Book the trip now with Step To Egypt and start planning your adventure.
About The Author: STE Team
