Valley of the Kings and Queens
The Valley of the Kings, often considered the grandest burial site of Egypt's pharaohs, is home to 63 tombs, including that of Tutankhamun, the boy king whose tomb was discovered in 1922 by British archaeologist Howard Carter. This site was chosen for its remote location, away from the prying eyes of tomb robbers, and its proximity to the Valley of the Queens, where royal women were also buried.
Visiting the Valley of the Kings and Queens in One Day
Timeline
7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: Depart from your hotel in Luxor to the West Bank (30-minute drive)
8:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Visit the Valley of the Kings
11:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Visit the Valley of the Queens
1:00 PM – 2:30 PM: Lunch at a local restaurant in Luxor
2:30 PM – 4:00 PM: Explore the Temple of Hatshepsut and Medinet Habu
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Return to your hotel or enjoy an evening boat ride along the Nile
The Valley of the Kings: A Tomb Fit for Kings
Each tomb in the Valley of the Kings tells its own story. The walls are lined with vibrant paintings that depict scenes from the Book of the Dead and other religious texts, guiding the pharaohs into the afterlife. The tombs of Ramses II, Ramses III, and Seti I are among the most awe-inspiring. Their vast, intricately decorated chambers and long corridors are filled with spiritual significance.
One of the most remarkable tombs is that of Tutankhamun, whose discovery in 1922 ignited worldwide fascination. Inside, Howard Carter uncovered the famous golden mask of the king, along with a treasure trove of priceless artifacts that now reside in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo.
It is recommended to visit the Valley of the Kings early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and the larger crowds. Be prepared for some tombs to require an extra ticket, such as the tomb of Tutankhamun or Seti I.
Recommended time: 2–3 hours
Cost: General admission to the Valley of the Kings is 200 EGP (11 euros), but the tomb of Tutankhamun costs an additional 100 EGP (5.50 euros).
Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Website: Egyptian Ministry of Tourism - Valley of the Kings
The Valley of the Queens: A Place for Royal Women
Just a short distance from the Valley of the Kings lies the Valley of the Queens, the burial site for the wives and children of Egypt's pharaohs. It is here that the tombs of some of Egypt’s most revered queens, including Queen Nefertari (wife of Ramses II), can be found. While the tombs of the kings were meant to inspire awe and eternal power, the tombs of the queens often evoke a sense of grace and serenity, with intricate artwork depicting life in ancient Egypt, as well as religious and spiritual motifs.
The tomb of Nefertari is particularly remarkable due to the richness of its paintings and the well-preserved state of the tomb. Unfortunately, it’s often closed for conservation, but if it is open, the vivid colors and intimate scenes provide a window into her life.
Other notable tombs in the Valley of the Queens include the tombs of princes, such as those of the sons of Ramses II. Many of the tombs are smaller in size but equally impressive in the artwork that decorates their walls.
Recommended time: 1.5–2 hours
Cost: 100 EGP (5.50 euros)
Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Lunch in Luxor
After a morning of exploring the tombs, it's time to enjoy a relaxing lunch. You can find a number of affordable restaurants near Luxor’s West Bank or in the town center.
Local Restaurant: Al-Sahaby Lane Restaurant
Located on Luxor’s East Bank, Al-Sahaby Lane offers a perfect blend of local and international cuisine. The restaurant features Egyptian specialties such as koshari, molokhia, and grilled meats, with a wonderful view of the Nile. You can enjoy a leisurely meal here before continuing your sightseeing.
Address: Karnak Temple Street, Luxor
Opening hours: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Cost: 100–200 EGP (5.50–11 euros)
Temple of Hatshepsut: A Female Pharaoh’s Monument
After lunch, take a short drive to visit the stunning Temple of Hatshepsut, one of Egypt's most impressive architectural feats. The temple was built for Queen Hatshepsut, one of the few women to rule as pharaoh. Set against the dramatic cliffs of the Theban Mountains, the temple’s terraces rise up from the desert floor, creating an awe-inspiring sight.
Hatshepsut, known for her peaceful reign and ambitious building projects, constructed the temple at Deir el-Bahari as a tribute to Amun and herself. It’s famed not only for its beauty but for the powerful imagery that reinforces her legitimacy as pharaoh, featuring scenes of her divine birth and her many accomplishments.
Recommended time: 1–1.5 hours
Cost: 150 EGP (8.25 euros)
Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Medinet Habu and the Ramesseum: The Legacy of Ramses III
Next, visit Medinet Habu, the mortuary temple of Ramses III, known for its impressive size and beautifully preserved reliefs. The temple’s walls depict the king’s military victories and divine protection, and it’s one of the best-preserved temples in the area. While not as well known as the other monuments, Medinet Habu’s isolation and the richness of its artwork make it a peaceful spot to enjoy.
Close by, the Ramesseum, the mortuary temple of Ramses II, is a must-see for those interested in the grand scale of Ramses’ reign. Its towering statues and fragmented ruins are a testament to his lasting power. While much of the temple is in ruins, the remaining portions are enough to feel the magnificence of the ancient civilization.
Recommended time: 1.5–2 hours
Cost: 100–150 EGP (5.50–8.25 euros)
Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Practical Tips for Visiting the Valley of the Kings and Queens
How to Get There
By Taxi or Private Car: The most convenient way to visit these sites is by taxi or private car. Most hotels in Luxor can arrange transportation, and many offer tours that include transportation and a guide.
By Local Bus: If you are traveling on a budget, there are buses available to and from Luxor’s West Bank, where the tombs are located.
By Bike: For a more adventurous option, rent a bicycle and cycle around the temples. This is a great way to explore Luxor at your own pace.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Luxor is between October and April, when the weather is cooler. The summer months can be extremely hot, making it difficult to explore the sites during the day.
Combined Passes
There is no universal combined pass for all the West Bank sites, but the Luxor Pass is a good option for those wishing to see multiple temples and tombs. The pass includes entry to the Valley of the Kings, the Valley of the Queens, and other temples on the West Bank for a discounted rate.
You can also opt for guided tours that include entry fees, transport, and a local guide, which can help simplify the logistics.
Luxor Pass Cost: 300 EGP (16.50 euros)
Where to buy: The pass can be purchased at the ticket offices for the sites or through tour operators.
Conclusion
A visit to the Valley of the Kings and Queens is a journey through time, where the echoes of ancient Egyptian royalty still resonate in the walls of the tombs. Whether you’re wandering the awe-inspiring corridors of Ramses II’s tomb, marveling at the delicate artwork of Nefertari’s tomb, or standing in awe before the grand Temple of Hatshepsut, you will be immersed in a world that speaks of grandeur, love, and the eternal pursuit of the afterlife. Make sure to take your time, explore the depths of each tomb, and allow the romance of Egypt’s past to sweep you away.
Selecting Your Itinerary and the Best Tombs to Visit at the Valley of the Kings and Queens
The Valley of the Kings and Valley of the Queens are vast archaeological sites, and with so many tombs to explore, it can be challenging to decide which ones to visit. The tombs vary not only in size and grandeur but also in artistic and historical significance. Some tombs are renowned for their artwork, while others are notable for the historical figures they house. Here’s a guide to help you plan an itinerary that blends artistic beauty, historical context, and practical considerations.
Valley of the Kings: Recommended Tombs
The Valley of the Kings is home to some of Egypt's most famous rulers, and the tombs here reflect the power, religion, and art of the New Kingdom. When visiting, you should prioritize tombs that offer insight into the art and history of ancient Egypt while also showcasing the tomb's unique architectural styles.
1. Tomb of Tutankhamun (KV62)
Historical Context: The tomb of Tutankhamun, discovered by Howard Carter in 1922, is perhaps the most famous of all in the Valley. Although Tutankhamun was a relatively minor pharaoh, his tomb is famous for its incredible treasure trove of artifacts, including the famous golden burial mask. His tomb was largely untouched by tomb robbers, which made it a spectacular find.
Artistic Context: The tomb features colorful wall paintings, including scenes of Tutankhamun in the afterlife, with various gods and goddesses assisting him. The treasures in the tomb represent the wealth and grandeur of the pharaohs, offering a unique look at the elaborate burial customs of ancient Egypt.
Time to Spend: 45-60 minutes.
Entry Fee: 200 EGP (11 euros). Additional fee for special entry to the tomb itself.
2. Tomb of Ramses II (KV7)
Historical Context: Known as Ramses the Great, Ramses II ruled for an impressive 66 years, one of the longest reigns in Egyptian history. He is renowned for his military campaigns, monumental building projects, and prolific progeny. Ramses II built more temples and statues than any other pharaoh and is often regarded as Egypt's greatest ruler.
Artistic Context: The tomb of Ramses II is vast, with grand corridors and beautiful reliefs depicting the king’s achievements and his connection to the gods. The detailed murals cover the walls with scenes of Ramses in battle, worshipping the gods, and journeying through the afterlife.
Time to Spend: 30-45 minutes.
Entry Fee: 200 EGP (11 euros) with an extra fee for special access to the tomb.
3. Tomb of Seti I (KV17)
Historical Context: Seti I was the father of Ramses II, and although he ruled for a relatively short period, he is remembered for his military campaigns and for laying the foundations of Egypt’s power under Ramses II. Seti's tomb is often regarded as one of the most beautiful and well-preserved tombs in the Valley of the Kings.
Artistic Context: The tomb of Seti I is famous for its intricate and well-preserved frescoes. The scenes on the walls depict various gods, such as Osiris and Ra, as well as the journey of the soul into the afterlife. The level of detail in these paintings is extraordinary, showing gods, rituals, and sacred texts that would have ensured Seti’s eternal rest.
Time to Spend: 45-60 minutes.
Entry Fee: 200 EGP (11 euros) with an additional fee for access to Seti's tomb.
4. Tomb of Horemheb (KV57)
Historical Context: Horemheb was a general who became pharaoh after the reign of Tutankhamun. His tomb is notable for its artistic and historical significance as it marks the end of the 18th Dynasty. Horemheb reformed Egypt’s judicial and military systems and is remembered for restoring order after the tumultuous reigns of his predecessors.
Artistic Context: The tomb is one of the best-preserved tombs in the Valley, with vivid depictions of Horemheb’s life, his military exploits, and scenes showing the king’s interactions with various deities. The artwork is significant for its early use of Egyptian-style linear perspective and its portrayal of royal life.
Time to Spend: 20-30 minutes.
Entry Fee: 100 EGP (5.50 euros).
Valley of the Queens: Recommended Tombs
The Valley of the Queens was the burial site for royal wives, children, and lesser royal figures. While these tombs were not as large as those of the kings, they offer a different but equally rich perspective on royal Egyptian burial customs.
1. Tomb of Nefertari (QV66)
Historical Context: Nefertari was the favorite wife of Ramses II, and her tomb is considered one of the most beautiful tombs in Egypt. She held significant political and religious influence during her husband’s reign, which is reflected in the extraordinary decoration of her tomb.
Artistic Context: The tomb’s wall paintings are among the most famous in Egypt. The scenes show Nefertari interacting with gods such as Isis and Hathor, along with depictions of her journey into the afterlife. The vibrant colors and intricate details of the murals have made this tomb one of the most admired in all of Egypt. Due to its fragility, the tomb is occasionally closed for conservation.
Time to Spend: 45 minutes.
Entry Fee: 100 EGP (5.50 euros).
2. Tomb of Queen Tiy (QV52)
Historical Context: Queen Tiy was the mother of Akhenaten, the pharaoh who famously introduced the worship of the sun god Aton. Her tomb is one of the lesser-known tombs but offers a glimpse into the life of a powerful woman during the late 18th Dynasty.
Artistic Context: The tomb contains beautiful painted reliefs depicting the queen in a variety of poses, including scenes with her son Akhenaten. It is simpler than the tomb of Nefertari but offers insight into the significance of royal women in ancient Egypt.
Time to Spend: 20-30 minutes.
Entry Fee: 100 EGP (5.50 euros).
Itinerary Tips for a Day Visit to the West Bank of Luxor
A well-organized itinerary will help you make the most of your visit to the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens. Here’s a recommended route and timeline:
Morning (Start at 7:30 AM to avoid crowds and heat)
Visit the Valley of the Kings (2 hours): Start with the tomb of Tutankhamun (KV62), followed by Ramses II (KV7) and Seti I (KV17).
Mid-Morning (10:30 AM)
Visit the Valley of the Queens (1.5 hours): Spend time in Nefertari’s Tomb (QV66) and Queen Tiy’s Tomb (QV52).
Lunch Break (12:30 PM)
Head to a local restaurant on the West Bank for traditional Egyptian food.
Afternoon (2:00 PM)
Temple of Hatshepsut (45 minutes): Explore the magnificent mortuary temple dedicated to Hatshepsut, the powerful female pharaoh.
Late Afternoon (3:30 PM)
Medinet Habu & Ramesseum (1.5 hours): End your day by visiting these stunning temples, dedicated to Ramses III and Ramses II, respectively.
Conclusion
The Valley of the Kings and Valley of the Queens are not just archaeological sites; they are the windows into the past, where the grandeur and beauty of ancient Egypt come alive. When choosing which tombs to visit, consider both the historical significance and the artistry of the tombs. From the treasures of Tutankhamun to the breathtaking murals of Nefertari, these tombs offer a blend of myth, religion, and history that will transport you to the days of the pharaohs. Make sure to plan your time wisely to maximize your experience, and don’t forget to take in the incredible landscapes of Luxor’s West Bank, where the tombs and temples are as awe-inspiring as the history they represent.