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Planning a trip to Luxor? You’re in the right place!
Luxor is often called the world’s greatest open-air museum, and it sits right on the Nile. It’s split into two distinct halves, the East and West banks, and you’ve also got the nearby Kings Island. So with three fantastic areas on offer, how do you decide where to stay?
Well, that’s where we come in! In this blog, we’ll share a detailed overview of each area and give you the best hotel picks for every budget. No matter your travel style, we’re here to help you find your perfect base!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
This is the hotel and area we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP!
Our personal FAVORITE area to stay in Lxor is East Bank! It’s right in the heart of the city, so you’re steps from the temples, restaurants, and shops.
We loved our stay at Sonesta St. George Hotel. The Nile views, spacious rooms, and welcoming staff made it unforgettable!
Where to Stay in Luxor Map
Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Luxor
Luxor is a city that blends old and new and is separated by the historic Nile River. These areas feel very different from one another, but the best one for you really depends on what you’re hoping to get out of your trip to Luxor.
The East Bank is the most convenient area to stay, packed with hotels, restaurants, and top attractions. The West Bank, on the other hand, offers a quieter, more traditional atmosphere and easy access to ancient sites like the Valley of the Kings. For a true resort escape, Kings Island delivers pure vacation vibes!
The good news is that Luxor is pretty compact, and it has a strong network of ferries, taxis, and organized tours, so it’s super easy to explore both sides of the river. It’s easy to balance sightseeing with relaxing on the Nile, and we’re here to help.
- East Bank – This bustling area is perfect for first-time visitors who want easy access to Luxor Temple, Karnak Temple, markets, and lots of restaurants. The Sonesta St. George Hotel is a well-rated option right in the heart of the action.
- West Bank – Quieter and more rural, this side of the Nile is quieter and more rural, and it’s ideally positioned to explore fascinating ancient sites like the Valley of the Kings and Hatshepsut’s Temple. Djorff Palace offers a gorgeous and atmospheric stay at a reasonable price.
- Kings Island – This is a private oasis on the Nile that’s perfect for families or couples looking to relax while still being a short shuttle boat ride from the city. Jolie Ville Hotel & Spa Kings Island Luxor is the only hotel on the island, but trust me, it’s the only hotel you’ll need!
Important Tip
Multiple Luxor trips have taught us that this city doesn’t reward spontaneity when it comes to planning. The good places get snapped up months in advance, leaving the overpriced and underwhelming options for last-minute travelers.
The sweet spot for booking Luxor accommodations is 3-4 months out—enough time to secure good rates but not so far ahead that you’re locking in plans excessively early.
Where to Stay in Luxor, Egypt
The East Bank
The East Bank is the lively heart of Luxor. It’s the most popular place to stay, and for good reason! Staying here puts you in the heart of the action, making it the perfect choice for first-time visitors.
There are tons of great hotel choices around here, and it’s packed with restaurants and shops. It’s easy to get around on foot, and key attractions like Luxor Temple and Karnak Temple are just a short walk or taxi ride away. There’s also a train station here, which makes it easy to take day trips to other parts of Egypt, like Aswan. Plus, pretty much any tour will pick you up from the East Bank!
It’s easy to go sightseeing from here during the day, and then the evenings are pretty lively, with lots of bars, restaurants, and lounges to check out. And as for what to eat, you can find plenty of traditional Egyptian food here or indulge in international cuisine.
The East Bank doesn’t have the same tranquil, historic feel as the West Bank, but its central location and easy access to the Nile make it ideal for visitors who want to balance sightseeing with relaxation. From here, you can easily explore both sides of the river and return to a comfortable hotel to unwind after a full day of discovering Luxor’s wonders!
Pros
- Central location with easy access to Luxor Temple, Karnak Temple, and the train station
- Plenty of restaurants, cafés, and nightlife options
- Easy to explore on foot or via short taxi/ferry rides
Cons
- Can be busy and crowded, especially around main attractions
- Less traditional and quieter atmosphere compared to the West Bank
Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor – $$$
Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor is a historic luxury hotel that feels like stepping back in time, but it still offers all the modern comforts you could ever want! Built in 1907, it’s famous for hosting royalty and explorers, and its lush gardens and elegant colonial architecture create a truly memorable stay.
The rooms are spacious and tastefully decorated, many with views of the Nile or the hotel’s gardens, giving you a serene escape from the bustling city. There are multiple dining options on site, as well as a large pool and relaxing lounges that capture the hotel’s old-world charm.
It also occupies a prime location on the East Bank, which means that you’re just a short walk from Luxor Temple and a quick ride to Karnak Temple. Prices typically range from $250 to $2,000 USD per night.
Check rates and availability here!
Sonesta St. George Hotel – $$
Sonesta St. George Hotel is a comfortable option on Luxor’s East Bank, offering a mix of glamor and convenience! Its riverside location provides lovely views of the Nile, and the hotel’s spacious rooms have big beds and classic decor. There’s also an outdoor pool, three on-site restaurants, and a fantastic breakfast!
Plus, it’s super central, so you couldn’t ask for a better location, and the staff are so friendly and welcoming. We think that this place offers amazing value for money! Prices typically range from $150 to $300 USD per night, while suites start at $600 USD per night.
Read the glowing reviews and book your stay here!
Steigenberger Resort Achti – $
Steigenberger Resort Achti is a comfortable and affordable hotel on Luxor’s East Bank. It’s perfect for travelers who want convenience without breaking the bank. Despite its lower price tag, it still boasts two outdoor pools, an al fresco restaurant and pizza oven, and decent-sized rooms with lots of natural light.
Its riverside location means you can enjoy Nile views right from your room, and the Luxor Temple is just a mile and a half away. Rooms typically range from $50 to $200 USD per night, and you can opt to include breakfast and dinner.
Check rates and availability here!
The West Bank
The West Bank offers a quieter, more traditional side of Luxor. If you want to immerse yourself in Egypt’s ancient history, this is the place to stay!
For one thing, this area is home to some of the city’s most famous archaeological sites, including the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut’s Temple, and the Colossi of Memnon. Staying here puts you just minutes away from these incredible monuments, allowing for early morning visits before the crowds arrive.
The West Bank has a slower relaxed pace than the bustling East Bank. The streets are lined with local villages and small cafés, giving visitors a taste of authentic Egyptian life. It’s perfect for culture seekers or anyone who simply wants a peaceful retreat after a day of exploring Luxor’s treasures.
While accommodations here are generally quieter and more spread out, ferries and taxis make it easy to reach the East Bank’s restaurants, shops, and Nile views. Staying on the West Bank allows you to fully enjoy the grandeur of Luxor’s ancient sites while still being just a short ride away from the city’s livelier heart.
Pros
- Close to major historical sites like the Valley of the Kings and Hatshepsut’s Temple
- Quieter, more relaxed atmosphere away from the busy East Bank
- Offers a more authentic, traditional Egyptian experience
Cons
- Fewer shops and restaurants compared to the East Bank
- Hotels are more spread out, so requires more taxis and ferries
Djorff Palace – $$
Djorff Palace is a charming mid-range hotel on Luxor’s West Bank. It’s a gorgeous hotel with a blend of Egyptian and Arabian-style architecture, so it truly does feel like staying in an ancient palace! It’s very atmospheric, and it really does deliver a 5-star feel for a very reasonable price.
Plus, this hotel is close to the city’s most famous ancient sites, so it’s ideal for history enthusiasts. Its location makes it easy to visit the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut’s Temple, and the Colossi of Memnon without long commutes.
There’s a gorgeous outdoor pool and a restaurant serving traditional Egyptian food, and breakfast is included with your stay. We think that this is the ideal base if you want to explore the West Bank at a relaxed pace. Prices typically range from $115 to $225 USD per night.
Check rates and availability here!
Villa Nile House Luxor – $
Villa Nile House Luxor is a pretty guesthouse on the West Bank, offering a welcoming, budget-friendly stay close to the main historical sites. You can visit the Valley of the Kings, Harshepsut’s Temple, and the Colossi of Memnon without long transfers from here. I mean, who doesn’t want less time commuting and more time sightseeing?
The guesthouse features simple, clean rooms with bright décor and comfortable beds, perfect for travelers who want a practical base for sightseeing. There’s a lovely terrace where you can relax and enjoy views of the Nile, and the staff are friendly and helpful, giving the place a warm and personal touch. Prices typically range from $40 to $90 USD per night, including a top-notch local breakfast.
Check rates and availability here!
Jewel Howard Carter Hotel – $
Jewel Howard Carter Hotel is a budget-friendly option on Luxor’s West Bank. We think it’s ideal for travelers who want a simple, comfortable base near the city’s top historical sites. It’s within easy reach of the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut’s Temple, and other ancient monuments.
The hotel offers clean rooms with homey decor and nice feminine touches, and the outdoor pool looks right out at the Nile! There’s also a hot tub and a lovely terrace where you can enjoy dinner with a view. Despite its lower price, it provides a lovely (and top-rated) stay close to Luxor’s ancient wonders.
Rooms typically range from $55 to $115 USD per night, with suites and apartments starting from $200 USD.
Read the great reviews and book your stay here!
Kings Island
Kings Island is a serene escape on the Nile, and it offers a completely different experience from both the East and West Banks. It’s actually a private island with just one resort on it, so it’s the perfect choice if you’re looking for a relaxing vacation in Luxor, perhaps with a little sightseeing peppered in here and there!
We think that Kings Island is perfect for families or couples on a romantic trip. The whole island feels like a resort oasis, with lush gardens, calm waters, and plenty of space to relax.
Although there aren’t archaeological sites directly on the island, it’s just a short shuttle boat ride to the city, so you’ve got easy access to Luxor Temple, Karnak Temple, and the East Bank’s restaurants and markets. Meanwhile, you can get to the Valley of the Kings in around 30 minutes.
Evenings here are quiet, so if your idea of a nice night in Luxor is watching the sunset over the river and enjoying a leisurely dinner at one of the hotel’s 10 different restaurants. What’s cool about Kings Island is that you get a resort experience here, but it’s still a very unique place to stay, with fascinating ancient sites close by.
Pros
- Peaceful resort-like atmosphere
- Scenic Nile views and lush gardens
- Just a short shuttle boat ride from Luxor
Cons
- Limited dining and entertainment options on the island
- Only one hotel
- Requires a boat or taxi to reach the main city attractions
Jolie Ville Hotel & Spa Kings Island Luxor – $$
Jolie Ville Hotel & Spa Kings Island Luxor is the island’s sole hotel. It’s a relaxing and scenic resort right on the Nile, and we think it’s perfect for couples or families who want a peaceful stay.
The resort features spacious, modern rooms with Nile views, a large outdoor pool, and beautifully landscaped gardens where you can unwind after a day of sightseeing. There are 10 (yes, 10!) restaurants on site, as well as a spa where you can indulge in some extra rest and relaxation.
Evenings here are calm and serene, so it provides a refreshing escape from the busier city areas. Prices typically range from $60 to $700 USD per night, and options range from twin rooms to huge suites.
See all options and find the best prices here!
Related Read: For the perfect way to explore the city’s temples, tombs, and Nile views in just a weekend, check out our 2-day Luxor itinerary here!
Top Activities to do in Luxor
With your Luxor hotel sorted, it’s time to dive into everything this ancient city has to offer! From soaring above the Nile in a hot air balloon and exploring the Valley of the Kings to cruising between temples on the river or racing across golden sands on a quad, Luxor is bursting with once-in-a-lifetime experiences that bring Egypt’s history to life.
Here are a few of our favorite tours that showcase the very best of Luxor:
- Explore Luxor’s West Bank in a day – Step back in time on this private full-day tour of Luxor’s legendary West Bank! Wander through the Valley of the Kings, see Queen Nefertari’s stunning tomb, and visit the Temple of Hatshepsut with an expert Egyptologist guide. Ancient history truly comes alive on this unforgettable day.
- See the sunrise from a hot air balloon – Soar above Luxor at sunrise on this once-in-a-lifetime hot air balloon ride! Float over the Valley of the Kings and the Nile as the first light hits the desert below. With small group sizes and stellar safety standards, it’s pure magic in the sky.
- Cruise the Nile from Aswan to Luxor – Experience Egypt in style on this 4-day, 3-night Nile cruise! Explore ancient temples like Kom Ombo and Edfu by day, then unwind on deck with sunset views over the river. With meals, guided tours, and even optional hot air balloon rides included, it’s the ultimate Egyptian adventure.
- Discover Luxor & Karnak temples – See two of Egypt’s most iconic landmarks in one on this half-day tour! Walk through Karnak’s massive Hypostyle Hall, then marvel at the Avenue of Sphinxes leading to Luxor Temple. With a private Egyptologist guide, you’ll uncover stories and secrets most visitors miss.
- Race through the desert on a quad safari – Trade temples for adventure on this private desert safari! Ride your own quad across golden sands, climb dunes, and chase the sunset over the desert. With flexible pacing and hotel pickup included, it’s an exhilarating way to see another side of Luxor.
Related Read: Want even more ideas for your trip? Check out our full guide to the best things to do in Luxor here for insider tips, can’t-miss attractions, and unforgettable experiences!
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Luxor is pure magic—a living museum where ancient wonders meet timeless beauty. From the grand temples of the East Bank to the tranquil charm of the West Bank and Kings Island, every part of Luxor tells its own story. Whether you’re sailing the Nile, exploring ancient tombs, or watching the sunrise from a hot air balloon, we hope this guide helps you plan the perfect stay in Egypt’s most captivating city.
Before you go, be sure to check out our other Egypt guides here for more tips on where to stay, what to do, and how to plan your perfect adventure along the Nile. Or scroll below for even more travel inspiration to help you plan your next unforgettable trip!
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