For centuries, Egypt has held a certain allure – a mystique rooted deeply in the legacy of the pharaohs. At the heart of this history lies Luxor, once known to the Western world as Thebes. Strategically positioned along the Nile, the city played a pivotal role in Egypt’s rise to global prominence, amassing immense wealth and influence along the way. Today, Luxor stands among the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities – a distinction that has now drawn the attention of one of the world’s most revered hospitality brands, Four Seasons. The newly announced Four Seasons Hotel Luxor promises to usher in a new era of elegance in this storied destination – read on to discover everything you need to know about Egypt’s newest Four Seasons address.
Luxor: A Destination Steeped in History
Luxor is, quite literally, an open-air museum. The city has been continuously inhabited for more than 5,000 years, forming a key stop-off for various pharaohs on their expeditions into Sudan and beyond. Thanks to its status as an important transit point, plus its strategic position nestled on the banks of the River Nile, the city amassed great importance across multiple dynasties, at various times functioning as the political, religious and military capital of Ancient Egypt.
Its streets are an archaeologist's dream; each year, excavations uncover a plethora of shrines, antiques and even sarcophagi, which help paint an in-depth picture of daily life in the ancient world. In 2018, one sarcophagus from the 18th Dynasty (1550-1292 BC) – discovered as part of a pair – was opened in front of international media, reaffirming Egypt’s status as one of the world’s most important archaeological sites.
The city is home to a number of world-renowned landmarks, from the Valley of the Kings to the Ramasseum – the memorial temple of Pharaoh Ramesses II and the second largest temple site in Egypt. Both of these sites, along with Valley of the Queens, form part of the "Ancient Thebes with its Necropolis" UNESCO World Heritage Site, a must-visit for the cultured traveller. With all of this on offer, visitors to Four Seasons Luxor have plenty of history in which to immerse themselves.
Introducing Four Seasons Hotel Luxor
When Four Seasons Hotel Luxor opens in 2027, one of Egypt’s most storied destinations and one of the world’s most iconic hospitality brands will finally merge.
The property will include 200 guest rooms and suites, with views across the River Nile, the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens. These outstanding suites will feature the same exquisite detailing regular Four Seasons guests have come to expect; expansive spaces flooded with natural light, high-end finishes and tranquil outdoor spaces, all designed for that home-away-from-home feel that has become synonymous with the brand.
Of course, the hotel will also feature world-class amenities; several restaurants and bars will be found within the complex, while a tranquil spa will form the ideal retreat after a long day touring the ruins of old Thebes. A state-of-the-art fitness facility will provide the perfect spot for those who wish to stay on top of their fitness goals while away, and multiple swimming pools, sophisticated retail outlets and a young adults centre will deliver convenience at every turn. Those in town on business can make use of the hotel’s expansive meeting and event spaces, which total an impressive 14,000 sq.ft.
Best Places to Eat in Luxor
Considering Luxor’s status as an important tourist hub, there are some outstanding dining options within the city. Located in a renovated 1930s house, Sofra offers delicious meat options, complemented by friendly staff and a welcoming atmosphere.
If it is an Instagram-worthy venue you seek, then look no further than Al Sahaby Lane. With its expansive terrace offering views of the Nile, the food is at risk of being an afterthought. Thankfully, though, it is some of the best in town, with a wide range of local and international cuisine.
Restaurant El-Kababgy Luxor presents upscale local cuisine on the banks of the Nile, the ideal location for a sunset meal. Comparatively, Snobs Restaurant, Nubian House and Casa Di Napoli all offer dishes worthy of a standing ovation, ideal for the discerning traveller after working up an appetite at one of the city’s many tourist attractions.
Elevated Experiences While in Town
While Luxor is brimming with heritage and history, the city has many more strings to its cultural bow, and there are plenty of high-end experiences awaiting the sagacious sightseer, many of which can be arranged through your Four Seasons concierge.
Luxury hot air balloon rides are a fantastic way to see one of the world’s largest open-air museums, with a range of first-class options around the city. Private cooking classes offer an intimate way to immerse yourself in the local culture and culinary traditions, while bespoke tours of the city’s extraordinary attractions – including the tomb of Tutankhamun in the Valley of the Kings, one of Egypt’s most revered sites – can also be arranged. For the slightly more intrepid visitor, desert tours remain a popular choice.
For those who wish to focus on personal well-being, Luxor is home to a range of sophisticated spas, where the goal is squarely on relaxation and rejuvenation of both body and mind. Of course, the Four Seasons itself boasts an outstanding spa, but sometimes it is nice to explore a little. Jolie Ville Resort & SPA Kings Island Luxor is a refined option, in addition to Star Spa, both of which offer bespoke treatments including massages, customised facials and aromatherapy sessions.
Luxor has long been a cornerstone of Egypt’s tourism landscape. Boasting a remarkable concentration of historical sites, distinguished dining, and elevated experiences, the city now welcomes its very own Four Seasons – a clear shift towards attracting the more global visitor. This landmark addition is poised to have a positive impact on the local tourism industry, further enhancing one of Egypt’s most iconic cities for cultured travellers.
