I am a firm believer in making the most of my time while traveling. Luxor is a city that is steeped in history and culture and you should continue to explore Luxor at night. It was once the capital of Ancient Egypt and is home to some of the most impressive monuments and landmarks in the world. While many tourists flock to Luxor during the day to visit these sites, the city comes alive at night with a different kind of energy.
If you’re looking for things to do in Luxor at night, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you’re interested in exploring the local nightlife scene or taking a peaceful stroll along the Nile River, Luxor has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll highlight some of the best things to do in Luxor after dark, so you can make the most of your time in this incredible city.
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Is Luxor safe at night?
I never felt unsafe in Egypt, but I did feel pressure. To be fair, I’m not a great haggler so when people want me to buy things I tend to give in.
In the big attractions – like Luxor Temple and the museum – you’ll be around groups of tourists and security. If you’re walking down the Corniche alone, you’ll want to be aware of your location and your belongings, like every other place you travel to.
So let’s get started – here are 9 best things to do in Luxor at night!
Visit the Luxor Temple
The Luxor Temple, located in the heart of Luxor city, is one of the most impressive and well-preserved temples in Egypt. While it is a popular destination for tourists during the day, visiting the Luxor Temple at night offers a completely different and unique experience. So if you have the opportunity to do both, I highly recommend it!
At night, the temple is illuminated by carefully placed floodlights, highlighting the intricate carvings and hieroglyphics that cover the walls. The dim lighting creates a mystical and enchanting atmosphere that adds to the temple’s already awe-inspiring beauty.
Visitors can stroll around the temple complex and explore the various courtyards, halls, and chambers. The main entrance to the temple is through the avenue of sphinxes, a row of stone sphinxes that stretches from the temple’s entrance to the nearby Karnak Temple.
One of the most spectacular sights at night is the central colonnade, which features massive statues of Ramses II. These statues are carefully lit, casting eerie shadows against the walls and providing a glimpse of what the temple might have looked like thousands of years ago when it was first constructed.
Visiting the Luxor Temple at night also provides a respite from the scorching heat of the day, allowing visitors to enjoy the temple in cooler temperatures. Additionally, there are usually fewer crowds at night, providing a more intimate and peaceful experience.
Overall, visiting the Luxor Temple at night is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Luxor. The mystical and enchanting atmosphere, combined with the temple’s impressive architecture and history, create an unforgettable experience that will stay with visitors long after their trip to Egypt has ended.
Attend the Sound and Light show at Karnak Temple
The Sound and Light show at Karnak Temple is a mesmerizing evening spectacle that brings ancient Egyptian history to life. Located in Luxor, Egypt, Karnak Temple is one of the largest and most impressive temple complexes in the world, dating back over 4,000 years.
The show takes place against the backdrop of the temple’s massive pylons, obelisks, and statues, creating a breathtaking visual experience. As darkness falls, the temple is illuminated, highlighting its intricate carvings and majestic architecture.
Accompanied by a narrative in multiple languages, the show recounts the history of Karnak Temple and the pharaohs who contributed to its construction and expansion. Through a combination of music, lights, and special effects, the audience is transported back in time, immersing themselves in the glory of ancient Egypt.
The show unfolds in different stages, each focusing on a different aspect of Karnak’s history. From the reign of Amenhotep IV, also known as Akhenaten, to the grandeur of Ramses II, the narrative brings forth the stories and legends associated with the temple.
The interplay of sound and light enhances the ambiance and adds depth to the storytelling. Subtle lighting effects illuminate the hieroglyphics, while carefully synchronized music and sound effects create a captivating atmosphere.
Take a Nile River cruise
Even if you can’t cruise the entire Nile, you can take a night Nile cruise for the views.
As the sun sets and the sky turns to a deep blue, the city lights come on and the riverbank comes alive. You can see the temples and tombs of ancient Egypt bathed in golden light, and the sound of the water lapping against the sides of the boat is incredibly relaxing.
There are many different types of Nile river cruises available, so you can find one that fits your budget and interests. Some cruises offer all-inclusive packages that include meals, drinks, and entertainment, while others are more basic. You can also choose to cruise on a traditional felucca boat or a modern cruise ship.
Many of the cruise ships include a relaxing atmosphere to enjoy the sights, delicious food, and drinks, entertainment – such as live music and dancers (we had a bellydancer on our cruise!) and of course, meeting other travelers from around the world.
Be sure to book the cruise in advance, especially during peak season, as they can sell out.
Take an evening sail on a falucca
A falucca is a traditional Egyptian sailboat that is totally controlled by hand. There are at least two men on the ship, sometimes three. One man on each side of the ship to row oars and one to control the mast in the wind.
Most hotels can arrange a felucca ride for you with other guests to save money on a group fare. However, if you prefer, you can negotiate your own ride. Be prepared to haggle (not my skill set, in all honesty). You negotiate by time on the boat, and that all depends on the wind. You can expect to pay around 400 EGP for one hour on a felucca.
Be flexible with where you want to go, and just enjoy the views!
Stroll along the Corniche
The Corniche is a long, tree-lined promenade that runs along the banks of the Nile River in Luxor. It is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to stroll, relax, and take in the views. The vibrant energy of the day slowly gives way to a more tranquil and captivating ambiance, enticing visitors to take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the majestic Nile River. With the cool night breeze gently caressing your face, every step along the Corniche is a journey into the ancient wonders and modern allure of Luxor.
The Corniche itself is a delightful blend of history and contemporary charm. On one side, you’ll find grand hotels and restaurants, their terraces filled with people enjoying a meal or sipping a refreshing drink. On the other side, ancient temples and monumental ruins stand as a testament to the city’s rich heritage.
As you continue your stroll, the warm glow emanating from the Luxor Temple illuminates the night sky. It’s colossal pillars and intricate carvings become even more captivating in the moonlight, evoking a sense of awe and wonder. The air is filled with a hint of mystery as if the spirits of pharaohs past are silently observing your journey.
If you’d like a different experience, you can take a horse and carriage ride instead. They’re pretty cheap (around 50 EGP to 200 EGP depending on the length of the ride or how long it takes.
Visit the Luxor Museum
The Luxor Museum is actually open until 10:00 pm most nights. It’s a great chance to avoid some of the crowds and go later. It also gives you the opportunity to connect with each exhibit on your own terms and on a deeper level.
No matter what time of day you go to the Luxor Museum, you’ll agree with me that it is a remarkable collection of artifacts. The museum spans thousands of years of Egyptian history. Inside you’ll find beautifully preserved statues, intricate and delicate jewelry,
Exploring the Luxor Museum at night is a truly immersive experience that allows you to connect with the past in a unique way. The peaceful ambiance, the enchanting lighting, and the profound beauty of the artifacts create an atmosphere that is both captivating and humbling.
Go shopping at a Souk
The souks offer a great shopping experience, with a variety of items available, including jewelry, spices, and textiles.
I love finding interesting, locally sourced souvenirs when I travel. Sure, you’ll find mini camels, keyrings, magnets, and of course mugs (my addiction started here), but you’ll also find high-quality items.
Egypt is known for its 18-carat gold, papyrus scrolls, and spices! Before you buy a lot though, be aware of your country’s customs. I was able to bring local paprika but only if I had under a certain amount.
As usual in Egypt, be prepared to haggle. You’ll also want to be aware of where you’re shopping. There are government-approved shops for tourists. These can guarantee that it’s made by a local craftsman and a genuine product.
Similar to other large tourist destinations, there are a few scams to be aware of when shopping. 9-carat gold being sold as 18 carat, banana leaf sold as papyrus – so going to those government-approved shops can help avoid these scams.
Travel Tip: If you have a guide and they bring you to a store, typically they have a relationship with the shop and will receive a commission. If you trust your guide to bring you somewhere of good quality (or it’s a government-approved store) then no worries, but just something to be aware of.
Enjoy a traditional Egyptian meal
In Egypt, dinner service is usually offered between 8 and midnight. You’ll find no shortage of places to eat in Luxor at night.
The aroma of freshly baked bread, spices, and grilled meats fills the air as you venture into the streets of Luxor in search of a memorable dining experience. Traditional Egyptian dishes such as koshari, a flavorful mix of rice, lentils, pasta, and crispy onions, or taameya, a mouthwatering falafel made from fava beans, are popular choices that showcase the rich flavors of the local cuisine.
You may be able to find dining outdoors, right along the Nile. The gentle breeze, the glittering lights reflected in the water, and the silhouette of ancient temples create a magical atmosphere that enhances the dining experience. As you savor your meal, you can also enjoy traditional music and entertainment, immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Travel Tip: Be sure to have some smaller bills as you might see musicians or street performers while dining.
Attend a traditional show in Luxor
Obviously, the most iconic and popular show in Luxor is the Sound & Light show at Karnak Temple, but there are others that can introduce you to other aspects of Egyptian culture.
Another popular traditional show in Luxor is the “Whirling Dervishes” performance. Inspired by the mystical Sufi tradition, this mesmerizing dance is characterized by spinning movements that symbolize a spiritual journey toward enlightenment. The dancers, dressed in flowing robes, create a captivating display of grace and devotion, accompanied by enchanting music that evokes a sense of tranquility and transcendence.
In addition to these shows, Luxor also offers performances of traditional Egyptian music and dance, including the lively folk dance known as the “Tanoura.” This exhilarating spectacle features male dancers twirling in colorful skirts, accompanied by lively music and vibrant drumming. The energy and skill of the performers are contagious, inviting the audience to join in the celebration of Egyptian culture.
Attending a traditional show in Luxor at night is not only a source of entertainment but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the country’s rich artistic heritage. It allows you to witness the customs and traditions that have been passed down through generations, creating a deeper connection to the spirit of Egypt and leaving you with lasting memories of a truly enchanting evening.
Final thoughts
The ancient city of Luxor doesn’t slow down just because the sun went away. There are plenty of things to do in Luxor at night to make the most of your time in the city. From learning about history to impressive light shows and delicious food, Luxor won’t disappoint.
Read More about Egypt
5 Things to See in Egypt (Other than the Pyramids)
10+ Best Temples to Visit in Egypt
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Luxor is beautiful and unfortunately, I was on a tour when I was there and didn’t get to see the Temples at night. We did go to the Markets though, which was amazing.
My husband often travels for work and sees a lot of the world at night once he has finished his work day. He still has some pretty cool adventures.
I am just dying to visit Egypt and this made me even more eager! I had no idea there was so much to do at night!
It all looks lovely, I think I would especially love the evening sail!