Exploring the Ancient Wonders of Luxor with Family

Echoes of Gods and Pharaohs

Today marked the beginning of our family's grand adventure in Luxor, and what a start it has been! From the moment we stepped out of the Iberotel Luxor Hotel, the air was thick with anticipation and the promise of ancient wonders. I was particularly excited to share this experience with Astrid and Lasse, hoping to ignite in them the same passion for history that burns within me.


Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Luxor at Iberotel Luxor Hotel, where comfort meets convenience just minutes from the city center.


Our day began with a hearty breakfast at The Lantern Room Restaurant. Fueled up and ready to explore, we set off for Karnak Temple. The sheer scale of the place is staggering. Even Lasse, usually glued to his phone, was awestruck by the towering columns and intricate hieroglyphs. I tried to explain the significance of each carving, each monument, drawing on my knowledge of ancient Egyptian history. Astrid, ever the librarian, added her own insights, enriching the experience for all of us. I felt a surge of pride as I watched Lasse's eyes widen with fascination, momentarily forgetting his teenage preoccupations. The May sun beat down on us, a reminder of the relentless passage of time, yet here we were, surrounded by structures that had withstood millennia. We wandered through the Great Hypostyle Hall, its massive columns casting long, dramatic shadows. I could almost hear the echoes of priests chanting and pharaohs commanding, transporting us back to a time of gods and legends. We explored the sacred lake, imagining the rituals that once took place on its shores. The heat was intense, but the allure of Karnak kept us going, each corner revealing a new marvel, a new story waiting to be discovered.


Experience the grandeur of Karnak, an ancient temple complex in Luxor that showcases the rich history and culture of Egypt's remarkable civilization.


After spending hours at Karnak, we decided to immerse ourselves in the local culture with a visit to the Luxor Fruit and Vegetable Market. The vibrant colors and exotic aromas were a feast for the senses. We strolled through the bustling stalls, marveling at the array of produce, some of which I had never seen before. The vendors were friendly and welcoming, offering us samples of their goods. Lasse, surprisingly, was intrigued by the different types of dates and mangoes, even trying a few new varieties. It was a refreshing change of pace from the monumental grandeur of Karnak, a glimpse into the everyday life of Luxor's residents. Astrid, with her usual charm, struck up a conversation with a local woman selling spices, learning about the traditional uses of each herb and seasoning. I purchased a few ingredients, eager to try my hand at recreating some authentic Egyptian dishes back in Silkeborg, perhaps with a Danish twist, of course.


Explore the Luxor Fruit and Vegetable Market, a vibrant hub of fresh produce and local culture, brimming with colors and flavors unique to Egypt.

To walk through these temples is to walk through the pages of history, to feel the weight of empires and the whispers of gods.

For lunch, we ventured to Al Sahaby Lane Restaurant, a charming rooftop eatery with stunning views of the Nile. The colorful seating and whimsical decor created a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. We ordered a variety of mezze dishes, savoring the flavors of hummus, baba ghanoush, and falafel. The food was delicious, and the view was simply breathtaking. As we ate, we watched feluccas glide along the river, their white sails billowing in the breeze. It was a perfect moment, a snapshot of Luxor's timeless beauty. Even Lasse seemed to appreciate the serenity, putting down his phone to soak in the scene. Astrid and I shared a knowing glance, grateful for this shared experience, this moment of connection in a faraway land.


Discover authentic Egyptian cuisine at Al Sahaby Lane Restaurant in Luxor—where tradition meets flavor in an inviting setting.


In the late afternoon, as the sun began to dip towards the horizon, we made our way to Luxor Temple. Smaller than Karnak, it possesses a unique charm, especially as the day transitions into night. The temple is beautifully illuminated, casting an ethereal glow on its ancient stones. We wandered through the colonnades, admiring the intricate carvings and colossal statues. I pointed out the details that often go unnoticed, the subtle nuances in the hieroglyphs, the expressions on the faces of the gods. Lasse, now fully engaged, asked insightful questions, eager to learn more. Astrid, with her keen eye for detail, noticed the subtle differences in the architectural styles, pointing out the influences of various pharaohs and dynasties. It was a collaborative exploration, a shared journey through time. As darkness descended, the temple took on a different character, its shadows deepening, its mysteries amplified. We sat by the banks of the Nile, watching the lights twinkle on the water, feeling a sense of peace and contentment wash over us.


Explore Luxor Temple, an archaeological gem in Egypt, where ancient history comes alive through breathtaking architecture and rich cultural heritage.


Dinner at the 1886 Restaurant in the Winter Palace was an experience in itself. The opulent setting transported us to a bygone era, with its elegant decor and impeccable service. I had made reservations well in advance, knowing that Astrid would appreciate the refined ambiance. Lasse, surprisingly, didn't complain about the dress code, perhaps sensing the importance of the occasion. The French cuisine was exquisite, each dish a work of art. We savored every bite, accompanied by a bottle of fine Egyptian wine. It was a fitting end to a day filled with wonder and discovery, a celebration of our family's shared adventure. As we walked back to the Iberotel, the night air was filled with the sounds of Luxor, a symphony of car horns, laughter, and music. I felt a deep sense of gratitude for this day, for this opportunity to share my passion with my loved ones, to create memories that would last a lifetime.


Experience exquisite fine dining at 1886 Restaurant in Luxor with stunning Nile views and an unforgettable culinary journey.


Tomorrow, we plan to delve even deeper into Luxor's ancient past with a visit to the Valley of the Kings and the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut. I'm particularly excited to see the tombs of the pharaohs and to learn more about the fascinating story of Hatshepsut, one of Egypt's most remarkable rulers. I'm sure it will be another day filled with awe and inspiration, another chapter in our family's Egyptian adventure. I made sure to double check we had sunscreen, but I realized I had forgotten my sunglasses and portable phone charger back at home in Silkeborg. Astrid reminded me that we can always buy them here, so I wasn't too worried. I'm looking forward to sharing more of our experiences with you all. Stay tuned!



I must say, Luxor in May is quite hot. The weather forecasts show daytime temperatures soaring, so staying hydrated is key. Also, I was reading that there are live virtual tours of Karnak and Luxor Temples, but seeing them in person is an entirely different experience.