The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

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Luxor & Aswan is the ultimate winter destination! If you are planning a trip to Luxor and Aswan in 2025, we have got you covered with this Luxor & Aswan guide. These two historical gems in Upper Egypt offer a breathtaking journey through ancient temples, vibrant culture, and stunning Nile views. Whether you’re cruising the Nile, exploring the Valley of the Kings, or relaxing in a Nubian village, Luxor and Aswan promise an unforgettable experience.

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In this guide, we’ll cover how to get to Luxor and Aswan, as well as must-visit attractions, hidden gems, local cuisine, and the best places to stay. Whether you’re looking for luxury cruises, budget-friendly hotels, or cultural experiences, we’ve got everything you need for the ultimate Luxor & Aswan itinerary.

Get ready to discover the best things to do in Luxor and Aswan in 2025 and make the most of your Egyptian adventure!

How to Get to Luxor & Aswan

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The variety of transportation methods to Luxor is never a problem. Still, picking the right option that fits you, your company, and the length of your vacation might not be as easy. Planes are always a popular option for quick arrival and return from internal airports nationwide. However, if you’re not tight on time, the following methods may add tons of fun and a whole new adventure to your Luxor & Aswan trip. So, check out the following:

Long Nile Cruise

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You can start your Nile cruise trip to Luxor & Aswan straight from Cairo. This extended Nile cruise trip can last between 11 and 16 nights, stopping at locations such as Beni Suef, Minya, Asyut, Sohag, and Qena. During the journey, you will visit various mesmerising temples in addition to the iconic ones located in Luxor and Aswan.

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The long Nile cruise can be pricey, and the trips are often rare due to lack of demand, but the constant Nile view, fresh air, and comprehensive programme are worth trying at least once. There are a few options for the long Nile cruise, such as Movenpick.

Trains

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Train options have expanded in recent years, and some are hard to ignore. Here are some recommendations for taking the train from Cairo to Luxor. Also, you can now book your preferred time slot online from Egypt National Railways’ website.

Talgo Train

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Talgo train is an excellent, luxurious option for travelling to Luxor. The trip lasts around 9 hours from Cairo to Luxor and around 12 hours from Aswan to Cairo. The Talgo train is spotless, with comfortable adjustable seating, a variety of delicious, fresh, and affordable meals, charging ports, and trash cans. The train has two seating options, and the difference is that for a slightly higher price you get a mini pillow and a screen in each seat for entertainment.

Sleeper Train

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If you have more time and love beautiful scenery, the sleeper train is a great option to enjoy the mesmerising view of fields and the Nile with the sleeping cabin experience. The ride takes around 12 hours to Luxor and around 13 hours on the return from Aswan.

What to Visit in Luxor

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When it comes to Luxor, there are always sites that you just can’t miss, from the marvellous temples of Karnak, Luxor, and Hatshepsut to the magnificent Valleys of Kings and Queens. These spots are known for their mesmerising history and structure, which will leave you in awe. However, you might consider adding equally interesting places and activities to your itinerary. 

Hot Air Balloon

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One of the best experiences in Egypt is the hot air balloon in Luxor, which is one of a kind. The first trip of the day starts at sunrise, and each excursion lasts around 30 minutes to an hour. What makes the experience truly special is that the balloon flies over the green fields of the beautiful Luxor and the Nile.

Alabaster Manufacturers in Al Qurnah City

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The sculpture of alabaster is one of the oldest crafts from ancient Egypt, and it is still practised by the descendants of the ancient Egyptian civilisation. Alabaster is a translucent soft stone. It’s either sculpted by machine or hand into various beautiful art pieces. The stone comes in dark green, yellow, and white. Witnessing the process of this ancient craft is an awesome experience that gives you deeper insight into heritage.

Temple of Khnum

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An often overlooked site in the usual Luxor visit is the Temple of Khnum. The Temple of Khnum is a vividly coloured temple with outstandingly detailed construction and artistry, proving the timeless craft and artistry of ancient Egyptians.

Medinet Habu

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Another overlooked gem in Luxor is the fascinating temple of Medinet Habu. The temple stands out because of its enchanting colourful ceilings and divine beauty, which make it worth the visit.

What to Visit in Aswan

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Arriving in Aswan from Luxor by train or cruise, you’ll first hit the usual sites of the temples of Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae to take in their brilliant history and structure that has withstood thousands of years. Then, you’ll probably swing by the High Dam and enjoy the scenery of the Nile waterfall, but that shouldn’t take your entire stay. Aswan has a few overlooked spots worth checking out to ensure you make the most of your trip.

Aswan Botanical Garden

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Located on an island, Aswan Botanical Garden is a historical garden that contains over 1000 species of plants and trees. The island is surrounded by the Nile, creating ethereal scenery.

Heisa Island

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Built on a hilly island stands the vividly coloured island of Heisa. Heisa Island is one of the last remaining islands in Aswan. Heisa stands out with its various colourful hotels and guest houses built in the traditional Nubian style. The island’s high vantage point gives visitors one of the best views of the Nile. It also has zero pollution and an open view of the sky, which makes it a perfect spot for a starry night sky.

Nubian Village

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The Nubian Village is a vibrant village in Gharb Suhail that is full of traditional, colourful Nubian houses. The settlement has a lot of cafes and art houses with live Nubian music, dances, and performances, such as Beit El-Haga Louza, Beit El-Haga Ghalya, and Torya. The village is also known for its numerous spices and teas that are unlike any other.

Nubian Museum

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The Nubian Museum presents three levels of Egyptian history showcasing thousands of ancient artefacts. The museum displays Egyptian and Nubian history from the social and cultural aspects of the civilisation.

Nile Museum

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The museum showcases the entire history of the Nile. Exhibiting antiques and photos of the developmental projects carried out throughout history, starting from the Ottoman Empire.

Abu Al-Hawa Mountain

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It is an interesting site directly across the river from Aswan, where the Tombs of the Nobles are located. The place also has camel and horse riding options. 

Berber Nubian Beach

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A Nubian beach overlooking the Nile, where there are some cool activities to choose from. Besides the camel and horse rides, there are kayaks that you can rent out and steep sandboarding hills for a thrilling experience.

Monument of Russian-Egyptian Friendship

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You should swing by this remarkable monument to take awesome pictures and capture more memories.

Where to Hangout in Luxor and Aswan

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Luxor and Aswan are both full of camps and food options, but here are few recommendations on spots offering extraordinary ambience and exquisite taste.

Tree Island Camp

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A great spot for creating memorable nights at Aswan. The camp is located on Berber beach, with swings and an Arabian setting that creates a relaxing atmosphere in which to enjoy barbeque nights and drink tea.

Marsam Restaurant

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A cosy ambience surrounded by green land and the ruins of an open temple. Marsam restaurant offers a variety of Egyptian dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring quality and hygiene with great taste. The hotel and restaurant are located in Al-Qurnah city.

Loqma Restaurant

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For vast portions of delicious Egyptian fare, Loqma Restaurant is another excellent option for Egyptian food. The restaurant is located in Luxor, near the city centre.

Nubian Palace

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The restaurant of Nubian Palace offers an open buffet of Egyptian food, serving as a fantastic lunch and dinner option for trips and gatherings.

Kendaka

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For a more international cuisine experience, Kendaka offers a variety of Eastern and Western food, all of which are executed with great taste and quality.

Nobeiry

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The Nobeiry restaurant provides a delicious Egyptian breakfast with a stunning view. It is part of the equally impressive Nobeiry Hotel.

Where to Stay

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There are, as usual, options everywhere, but here are some recommendations you might want to consider:

Nile Cruise

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Staying on a Nile cruise during your Luxor and Aswan trip is the original experience, and there are multiple options to pick from, like Steigenberger, Movenpick, Mayfair, Luxor and Aswan Travel, and so many more that vary in details, prices, and quality.

Heissa Artie Nubian House

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Located on the stunning Heisa Island, like any stay on Heisa Island, this hotel offers a fantastic view of the Nile and its ambience of the non-polluted air.

Marsam Hotel

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Located in Al-Qurnah city around the Valleys of Kings and Queens, the hotel offers a peaceful, relaxing ambience with its incredible rooms and green surroundings. The staff are friendly, highly attentive, and committed to providing excellent service.

Nobeiry Hotel

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For a hotel in Nubian and Greek style, Nobeiry is a lovely, simple hotel with a peaceful atmosphere overlooking the Nile. The hotel has excellent, friendly service and amazing vibes, presenting the authentic essence of Nuba.

Nubian Palace

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A vibrant guest house in Aswan with genuinely welcoming, friendly accommodation. The place is truly unique as it stands out with its beautiful aesthetic and colourful art. It has rooms overlooking the Nile and a relaxing vibe.