Planning a trip to Luxor and wondering where to base yourself? Choosing the right area can completely shape your experience in Egypt’s ancient capital. This guide covers our top recommendations for areas and hotels in Luxor.
Luxor is steeped in history, with some of the most impressive ancient temples and tombs you’ll find anywhere in the world.
The city is spread across both banks of the Nile, and the different neighbourhoods have a very distinct feel, so choosing the right accommodation is important.
Some areas feel bustling and vibrant, with souvenir shops and traditional cafés; others offer peaceful Nile-side retreats with rooftop views of hot-air balloons drifting over the Valley of the Queens.
Most visitors to Egypt will spend at least one night in Luxor, as it’s the start (or finish) of the most popular Nile cruise. But the city is well worth at least one (if not two) extra days.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best places to stay along with our top accommodation picks in each area.
Quick Recommendations
- Best for First-Time Visitors: East Bank
- Best for Boutique Egyptian Style Stay: West Bank
- Best for Island Resort: Kings Island
Map: Where to Stay in Luxor
Use this interactive map to explore Luxor’s best areas. Each area is marked with our recommended hotels.
Before you choose where to stay, check out all our favourite things to do in Luxor to get an idea of what you want to do. It includes a suggested itinerary and tips on getting around the city.
You can also read about how we planned our itinerary for Egypt.
Best Areas to Stay in Luxor
Most people find themselves in Luxor at the start or end of a cruise. Before you book anything, read our guide on deciding between a Nile cruise ship or a dahabiya.
1. East Bank (Best for First-Time Visitors)
If it’s your first time in Luxor and you want convenience and choice, the East Bank around Luxor Temple and the Corniche is your best option.
This is Luxor’s lively centre.
You’ll be within walking distance of Luxor Temple and a short taxi or horse-drawn carriage ride from Karnak Temple.
It’s also where you’ll find the majority of restaurants in Luxor, plus shops, cafés, and tour operators.
The Corniche is where you’ll find most of Luxor’s luxury hotels, many with stunning Nile views and resort-style amenities.
It’s also the most convenient base for catching ferries to the West Bank or arranging day trips.
The downside is that it’s the busiest part of town. You’ll encounter persistent hawkers near the temple areas, and the traffic along the Corniche can be noisy.
Our East Bank Hotel Recommendations
- Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor ($$$$$) — The historic grand dame of Luxor, where the rich and famous have been staying for years. Agatha Christie famously penned parts of Death on the Nile here.
- Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa ($$$$ ) — Set directly on the Nile with multiple pools and extensive spa facilities, this resort-style hotel is perfect if you want a balance of sightseeing and relaxation.
- Sonesta St. George ($$$) — A fantastic mid-range choice right on the East Bank of the Nile. It features a lovely pool surrounded by loungers and a terrace that extends into the Nile.
- Nefertiti Hotel ($$) — A reliable, good-value hotel with clean, comfortable rooms and a rooftop terrace offering Nile views. The location is excellent—within walking distance of Luxor Temple, the train station, and the market.
2. West Bank (Best for Boutique Egyptian Style Stay)
The West Bank offers a completely different experience.
This is the ‘City of the Dead’, home to the Valley of the Kings, Valley of the Queens, the Temple of Hatshepsut, and countless other archaeological treasures.
Staying here puts you minutes from these world-famous sites, meaning you can arrive early before the tour buses and midday heat.
The West Bank feels more like a collection of villages than a tourist district, so it’s perfect if you want a slower pace and to experience daily Egyptian life.
Accommodation on the West Bank tends towards smaller guesthouses, boutique hotels, and family-run properties rather than international chains.
The main downside is that you’ll need to take a ferry or drive around via the bridge to reach the East Bank’s restaurants and shops.
The local ferry is cheap and atmospheric, running every 15 minutes and taking just 5 minutes. It runs less regularly in the evening, and if you are out very late, you may need to take a taxi back.
Our West Bank Hotel Recommendations
- Al Moudira Hotel ($$$$) — Luxor’s most unique boutique hotel is the only palace-style property on the West Bank. Each room is individually designed with colourful tiles and antique furniture.
- Malkata House Boutique Hotel ($$$$) — A beautiful and peaceful boutique hotel located in a quiet area on the West Bank side of the Nile. The morning views over the Valley of the Queens, with hot air balloons floating overhead, are truly exceptional.
- Habu Hotel ($$$) — Recently renovated, stylish hotel in a wonderful location. The excellent pool and restaurant have a terrace overlooking the Medinet Habu temple, backed by golden mountains.
- Kemet House ($$) — Homely and cosy three-storey guest house with a typical Arabian layout, with rooms overlooking the patio. An authentic atmosphere at a good price. It’s one block back from the Nile, very close to the ferry.
3. Kings Island (Best for Island Resort)
For something completely different, Kings Island is a small Nile island accessible by a short boat ride.
This feels like a world apart from mainland Luxor, surrounded by water and lush gardens with feluccas sailing past.
It’s perfect for families or anyone wanting resort facilities combined with easy access to Luxor’s sites.
The main property here has extensive amenities, including multiple pools, kids’ clubs, restaurants, and a spa.
The primary consideration is that you’re reliant on the hotel shuttle or boat transfers to reach the city, which makes spontaneous exploration less convenient.
Our Kings Island Hotel Recommendation
- Jolie Ville Hotel & Spa Kings Island Luxor ($$$) — Set on its own private island with lush tropical gardens and three outdoor pools. The resort offers excellent family facilities, including a kids’ club, multiple restaurants, and regular shuttle service to downtown Luxor.
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