Formerly known as Thebes, the capital city of Ancient Egypt, Luxor is considered "the world's greatest open-air museum." It is home to several of the country's greatest attractions, including the Museum of Mummification on its East Bank and the Valley of Queens on the West Bank which features the tomb and treasures of Queen Nefertari. You can tour many of these spectacular ruins by land or air, both of which are an unforgettable experience. In addition to all of the archeological and historical riches you will find in Luxor, the city also provides a wealth of arts, entertainment, shopping, and dining options as well as a buzzing nightlife. Outdoor activities run the gamut from hiking, mountain biking, climbing, and more. For visitors new to the area, one of the most spectacular attractions to see is the Winter Palace in Luxor, Egypt. It is truly awe-inspiring.

Here are a few additional suggestions of things to do in Luxor:

• The Temple of Karnak: Originally known as Ipet-Isut in ancient times, this complex took pharaohs more than 2000 years to construct. It is dedicated to the Theban triad of Amun, Khonsu, and Mut.
• Luxor Temple: This temple was constructed by Amenhotep III with additions by Ramses II during the 18th century. It was built to honor the celebration of the yearly Opet Festival, which included the procession of the Amun, Khonsu, and Mut statues from Karnak to Luxor. It features elegant columns and exquisite, expansive open courts.
• The Valley of Kings: There are over 60 royal tombs in this ancient cemetery of Egypt's New Kingdom rulers. The most famous of which, the Tomb of Tutankhamen, was found in pristine condition back in 1922.
• The Luxor Museum: This museum contains a great collection of statues and artifacts found in sites in and around Luxor. Some of these include a large pink granite head of Amenhotep III, Hathor's gilded head from Tutankhamen's tomb, and Queen Nefertiti.
• The Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el Bahari: Dedicated to Queen Hatshepsut, the longest-ruling female leader of Ancient Egypt, this temple is a mortuary one. It is decorated with reliefs, sphinxes, and statues that have been painstakingly restored through the years.
• Valley of the Nobles: This valley contains the Theban tombs of the Nobles and it spans over a heavily populated area south of the Valley of the Kings.

A vacation rental in Luxor offers the best of accommodations in the Nile River Valley. A villa near the water or a condo in the city center can provide all of the comforts of home and all of the modern amenities you need.