Exploring the Ancient Wonders of Luxor with Family

Island Serenity and Royal Grandeur

Today was a delightful blend of peaceful escape and powerful history. Leaving behind the familiar comforts of the Iberotel Luxor Hotel, Astrid, Lasse and I ventured out to explore some of Luxor's lesser-known, yet equally captivating, sites. It’s days like these that remind me why I love travelling with my family – the shared wonder, the quiet moments of reflection, and the endless opportunities to learn and connect.


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

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at El Tawab Restaurant & Coffee Shop. It was a simple affair, but fuelled us up nicely for the day ahead. Then, we set off for Queen’s Island. The journey there was an adventure in itself. We hopped on a local ferry from the Luxor Corniche, joining a mix of locals and fellow tourists eager to experience this tranquil haven. The brief boat ride across the Nile offered stunning views of the Luxor skyline, the bustling city slowly fading into a serene landscape of lush greenery.


Explore the serenity of Queen's Island in Luxor, a tranquil escape rich in natural beauty and historical significance, perfect for relaxation and reflection.

As we stepped onto Queen’s Island, a sense of calm washed over us. It was a world away from the bustling streets of Luxor. The island, a verdant oasis in the middle of the Nile, is named after Queen Sonja of Norway, apparently one of her favourite places by the Nile. We strolled along winding paths shaded by towering trees, the air filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers. Lasse, ever the curious teenager, was fascinated by the diverse birdlife, pointing out colourful species I couldn’t even begin to name. Astrid, with her librarian’s eye for detail, was captivated by the unique trees and palms, some of which are over two centuries old. It was a moment of simple joy, watching my family connect with nature in such a peaceful setting. I managed to capture a few pictures, hoping to capture the essence of the island's beauty.

The true journey of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.

After a leisurely morning on Queen’s Island, we took the ferry back to the mainland and headed towards the West Bank to visit the Ramesses III Temple at Medinet Habu. This mortuary temple, a magnificent structure built during the New Kingdom period, offered a stark contrast to the serenity of the island. As we approached the temple, its imposing size and well-preserved walls were immediately striking. The temple precinct spans a vast area, and it’s easy to feel dwarfed by the sheer scale of the architecture.


Discover the breathtaking Temple of Ramesses III in Karnak, a spectacular historical landmark filled with ancient wonders and rich Egyptian heritage.

The Ramesses III Temple is renowned for its intricate relief carvings and inscriptions, which depict scenes of battles, religious rituals, and daily life in ancient Egypt. Lasse, who has been studying ancient history at school, was particularly enthralled by the depictions of Ramesses III’s military campaigns, including the famous battle against the Sea Peoples. Astrid, meanwhile, was drawn to the temple’s architectural details, noting the similarities to the nearby Ramesseum. I found myself captivated by the sheer artistry and craftsmanship of the carvings, each telling a story of a bygone era. The walls are adorned with scenes of Ramesses III smiting his enemies, a testament to his power and divine right to rule. We spent a good few hours wandering through the temple complex, marveling at the hypostyle halls, courtyards, and shrines. It was like stepping back in time, immersing ourselves in the world of pharaohs and gods.

Before heading back to the hotel, we made a stop at Nobles Art Gallery, located in the Old Winter Palace hotel. It's one of the oldest galleries in Luxor, specializing in sculptures and other objects from the early twentieth century. I am always on the lookout for unique pieces that reflect the history and culture of the places we visit. The gallery had a collection of statues and sculptures, Islamic bronze bowls and trays, and vintage jewellery. It was a treat to see such craftsmanship, and I even considered purchasing a small sculpture as a memento of our trip. I think I will come back tomorrow and make a purchase.


Explore the exquisite collection of antiques and art at Nobles Art Gallery, a cultural gem in Luxor, Egypt, showcasing the rich artistic heritage of the region.

For lunch, we decided to try a Lebanese restaurant I had read about. It was a bit of a mixed experience. While the mixed grill and lentil soup were quite tasty, the bread wasn't quite what we expected, more Egyptian than Lebanese. The atmosphere was pleasant, with live music in the evening, but overall, it was a somewhat average meal. Astrid did enjoy a glass of Lebanese red wine and Lasse enjoyed a fresh juice. Perhaps we'll try another Lebanese spot tomorrow.


Discover authentic Lebanese flavors in Luxor's charming restaurant offering exquisite dishes and warm hospitality.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to the Silk Road restaurant for dinner. Located within the Hilton Luxor Resort and Spa, this Asian bistro offered a delightful culinary experience. The menu featured a diverse range of dishes from China, India, Thailand, and Korea, blending flavours in a way that was both exciting and comforting. Lasse opted for Korean chicken wings, while Astrid and I decided to share a selection of Indian curries. The food was delicious, the service impeccable, and the ambiance elegant. The sunset views of the Nile and distant hills added an extra layer of magic to the evening.


Discover the essence of Asian cuisine at Silk Road in Luxor—a culinary journey reflecting history and flavor.

Reflecting on the day, I realize how fortunate I am to share these experiences with my family. Each day in Luxor brings new discoveries, new connections, and new memories to cherish. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Amira’s Island and the Tomb of Seti I (KV17). I’m particularly excited about the tomb, as Seti I was one of the most influential pharaohs of the New Kingdom, and his tomb is renowned for its elaborate decorations and well-preserved state. We might finish the day with a drink at the El-Gezira Hotel & Restaurant.

As I sit here, writing this blog post, I can’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore this ancient land with my loved ones. Each day is a gift, a chance to learn, grow, and connect with the world around us. And as I drift off to sleep, I dream of the adventures that await us tomorrow.

The warm Egyptian air is starting to cool down, and the stars are starting to appear. It is time to rest and recharge for another day of adventures tomorrow.