
Valley of the Queens Luxor
Discover the vibrant tombs of queens and royalty in Luxor's Valley of the Queens, a less crowded gem of ancient Egyptian artistry.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

Valley of the Queens Luxor
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the vibrant tombs of queens and royalty in Luxor's Valley of the Queens, a less crowded gem of ancient Egyptian artistry.
"Massively underrated, smaller than Valley of the Kings but equally worth doing and less tourists."

⏳ Time Limit in Tombs
Expect around 10 minutes per tomb, which is usually enough to appreciate the art.
🚶 Walk Back to Ferry
If fit, enjoy a 3-mile downhill walk back, spotting interesting sights.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tomb of Queen Nefertari (QV66)
Valley of the Queens
Often called the 'Sistine Chapel of Ancient Egypt,' its vibrant frescoes are breathtaking.

Tomb of Prince Khaemweset (QV44)
Valley of the Queens
Discover intricate hieroglyphs and vivid depictions of the afterlife in this well-preserved tomb.

Tomb of Queen Isiset (QV71)
Valley of the Queens
Explore the resting place of a princess, showcasing unique artistic styles and historical narratives.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Ticket Smarts
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Time Limit in Tombs
Expect around 10 minutes per tomb, which is usually enough to appreciate the art.
🚶 Walk Back to Ferry
If fit, enjoy a 3-mile downhill walk back, spotting interesting sights.
📱 QR Code Tickets
Purchase tickets on-site using QR codes if you have WiFi or mobile data.
👑 Royal Burials
Not just queens, but princes and princesses were buried here too.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Time Limit in Tombs
Expect around 10 minutes per tomb, which is usually enough to appreciate the art.
🚶 Walk Back to Ferry
If fit, enjoy a 3-mile downhill walk back, spotting interesting sights.
📱 QR Code Tickets
Purchase tickets on-site using QR codes if you have WiFi or mobile data.
👑 Royal Burials
Not just queens, but princes and princesses were buried here too.
🚫 Avoid Hassle
Attendants can be pushy, especially if you're not in a tour group.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Valley of the Queens is a fascinating, albeit smaller, archaeological site offering a glimpse into the lives of ancient Egyptian royalty. Visitors appreciate the detailed artwork and the less crowded atmosphere compared to the Valley of the Kings. However, the limited access to certain tombs, particularly Nefertari's, and occasional hassling from attendants are noted drawbacks.
"The Valley of the Queens in Luxor is a fascinating archaeological site where ancient Egyptian queens and royal children were laid to rest. Beautifully decorated tombs reveal vivid art, mythology, and the grandeur of ancient Egypt."
Luka Gurchumalidze
"A lot less action than the Valley of the Kings, but not less interesting. Unfortunately, Nefertiti’s tomb is closed until who knows when, and that was the best around Luxor by far. Still great though, go for it!
Advanced Tip: if you feel fit enough for 3 miles easy downhill, walk back to the ferry. There’s lots of interesting things to see on the way!"
Will Pirnasch
"This is massively underrated. Smaller in size compared to valley of the kings but equally worth doing and less tourists in comparison. A must do!"
Rajiv Shah
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Valley of the Queens is located on the West Bank of Luxor. You can reach it by taxi, private car, or as part of an organized tour. Many hotels, like the Malkata House Boutique Hotel, offer views of the area. Consider taking a ferry across the Nile and then arranging transport to the site. Some travelers recommend walking back to the ferry if you're feeling energetic.
Once inside the Valley of the Queens complex, there are usually local transport options available to take you between the open tombs, though walking is also an option for shorter distances. Be prepared for attendants to offer services.
Absolutely! Many visitors combine the Valley of the Queens with the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and Luxor Temple in a single day trip. This offers a comprehensive experience of Luxor's ancient wonders.
These two major necropolises are relatively close to each other on the West Bank. A taxi or private car is the most convenient way to travel between them. Some tours will include transport between the sites.
Yes, the Malkata House Boutique Hotel is noted for its unique views overlooking the Valley of the Queens. Staying on the West Bank can offer a more tranquil experience compared to the East Bank.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but it's advisable to check the latest information upon arrival. You can now purchase tickets by scanning QR codes on-site if you have mobile data or WiFi.
Typically, a general admission ticket grants access to a set number of open tombs. However, some of the most famous or well-preserved tombs, like Nefertari's, may require a separate, more expensive ticket or might be closed for preservation.
The Valley of the Queens generally opens in the morning and closes in the late afternoon. It's best to confirm the exact hours for the day of your visit, as they can sometimes change.
Unfortunately, Queen Nefertari's tomb (QV66), often considered the most spectacular, is frequently closed for preservation or requires a special, costly ticket. It's wise to manage expectations and check its status before your visit.
While advance purchase might be possible through tour operators, on-site QR code payment is a common method now. This offers flexibility, but ensure you have a stable connection.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
While there are around 90 tombs in the Valley of the Queens, only a fraction are typically open to the public at any given time. This number can fluctuate due to ongoing preservation efforts.
The Valley of the Kings primarily houses the tombs of pharaohs, while the Valley of the Queens contains the burial sites of royal wives, princes, and princesses. The art and scale can differ, with the Queens' Valley often being described as less grand but equally fascinating and less crowded.
Yes, many visitors find the Valley of the Queens to be 'massively underrated' and worth the visit, offering a different perspective and fewer crowds. The art is distinct and provides valuable insights into ancient Egyptian beliefs.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential as you'll be exploring tombs and uneven terrain. Light, breathable clothing is recommended due to the desert heat. A hat and sunscreen are also advisable.
Photography rules can vary, and sometimes flash photography is prohibited. It's best to check the specific regulations at the entrance of each tomb or ask a guard. Some tombs may have restrictions to protect the delicate artwork.
📸 📸 Photography
The vibrant frescoes inside the tombs are the main photographic draw. Focus on capturing the intricate details and colors. The exterior landscape also offers scenic views, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Visiting during off-peak hours (early morning or late afternoon) can help you avoid crowds and get clearer shots. The less foot traffic means more opportunities for unobstructed photos.
Given the often dim lighting inside tombs, a camera with good low-light performance or a tripod (if allowed) can be beneficial. Experiment with higher ISO settings cautiously to avoid excessive noise. Natural light filtering in can create dramatic effects.
Queen Nefertari's tomb (QV66) is renowned for its stunning, well-preserved artwork, making it a prime subject for photography, though access can be limited. Other open tombs also offer unique visual narratives.
Photography rules can change, but generally, flash photography is prohibited to protect the ancient artwork. Some sites may have specific restrictions or require separate photo permits. Always check signage or ask officials.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of Queen Nefertari's Tomb (QV66)
The artistry is exceptional, showcasing a level of detail and color that is rare to find. These paintings offer invaluable insights into ancient Egyptian beliefs about death, the afterlife, and the divine. While access to QV66 is often restricted and requires a separate, more expensive ticket, many visitors find it to be the absolute highlight of their visit to the Valley of the Queens. The limited time allowed inside (around 10 minutes) is often sufficient to absorb the tomb's magnificence.
Comparing the Valley of the Queens to the Valley of the Kings
Many visitors note that the Valley of the Queens is significantly less crowded than the Valley of the Kings, making for a more intimate and less rushed exploration. The artwork in the Queens' Valley, while perhaps less monumental in scale, is often praised for its exquisite detail and vibrant colors, offering a unique artistic perspective. It's a fantastic opportunity to see a different facet of ancient Egyptian royal burial practices and artistry, making it a highly recommended addition to any Luxor itinerary.
Navigating the Valley of the Queens: Practicalities and Tips
Be prepared for attendants who may offer their services or try to guide you, and be firm but polite if you prefer to explore independently. Purchasing tickets on-site via QR code is now a common method, provided you have mobile data or WiFi access. While the time spent in each tomb is usually limited to about 10 minutes, this is generally ample time to appreciate the stunning artwork and historical significance of these ancient resting places.

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