9 Stunning Luxor Valley of the Kings Tombs to Visit in 2025
Have you ever dreamed of stepping into the ancient world of Egypt’s pharaohs? The Valley of the Kings tombs in Luxor are the perfect place to bring that dream to life.
While the Giza Pyramids often get all the attention, the Valley of the Kings tombs in Luxor are just as jaw-dropping. This vast burial ground hides over 60 tombs where Egypt’s most powerful kings, nobles, and priests were laid to rest—including the famous boy king, Tutankhamun.
I’ll be honest with you—the first time I visited, I felt completely overwhelmed. With so many tombs to choose from, I didn’t know where to start or which ones were worth the extra ticket. That’s where I come in—I’m here to help make your trip easier!
In this guide, I’ll help you decide which Valley of the Kings tombs to visit, share some handy tips I wish I’d known before my visit, and show you why this incredible site needs to be on your Luxor bucket list.
This blog post is all about the best tombs in Luxor’s Valley of the Kings.
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Why Visit the Luxor Valley of the Kings Tombs
Unlike the Old Kingdom pyramids, the Luxor Valley of the Kings tombs were hidden underground to protect pharaohs and treasures. Built during the New Kingdom (around 1550–1070 BCE), they’re still revealing secrets—like Thutmose II’s newly discovered tomb!
Today, only 8–10 tombs in the Valley of the Kings are open to the public at a time to help preserve the intricate artwork. A standard ticket (750 EGP) lets you visit three tombs, with a guard clipping your ticket at each one.
If you want to see special tombs like Tutankhamun, Seti I, or Ramses V & VI, you’ll need to buy additional tickets.
The best Valley of the Kings tombs? I loved Ramses III (KV11), Ramses IV (KV2), and Tausert-Setnakht (KV14). Tutankhamun and Ramses V & VI are worth the splurge, but I’d skip Seti I—it just didn’t feel worth 2,000 EGP to me.
Valley of the Kings Tombs Open to the Public in 2025
Standard Ticket Tombs (Choose 3)
- KV1 – Ramesses VII
- KV2 – Ramesses IV
- KV6 – Ramesses IX
- KV8 – Merenptah
- KV11 – Ramses III
- KV14 – Tausert-Setnakht
- KV15 – Seti II
- KV16 – Ramesses I
- KV43 – Thutmose IV
- KV47 – Siptah
Extra Ticket Tombs
- KV9 – Ramses V & VI (220 EGP)
- KV17 – Seti I (2,000 EGP)
- KV62 – Tutankhamun (700 EGP)
- WV23 – Tomb of Ay (200 EGP)
My Go-To Egypt Travel Resources
- Travel Insurance: I used SafetyWing (great for longer trips or if you’re already abroad). For short stays, Heymondo works well too.
- Visa: You can get one at the border ($25 USD), but I recommend applying online with iVisa—super easy.
- SIM Card: Egypt’s Wi-Fi isn’t great. I used an Airalo eSIM and had data almost everywhere.
- VPN: I used Surfshark to stay safe and unblock apps while on public Wi-Fi.
- Money: Egypt uses EGP (1 USD ≈ 50.5 EGP). I used Revolut for payments and Wise for transfers.
- Transport: I booked flights with Skyscanner, trains/buses with 12Go, and used DiscoverCars and inDrive (a great Uber alternative).
- Accommodation: I booked everything on Booking.com (and recommend Hostelworld for budget stays).
- Tours: Klook and GetYourGuide were my go-tos for reliable, easy-to-book day trips and activities.
9 Best Valley of the Kings Tombs to Visit
1. Merenptah (KV8)
This was the first Valley of the Kings tomb I visited, and honestly, I’m still not sure why so many people (including my guide!) recommend it.
The massive sarcophagus and detailed entrance carvings are definitely impressive, but as you venture deeper, the artwork feels a bit rushed—probably because Merenptah only became pharaoh at 70, so his tomb had to be finished quickly.
What I did love, though, was how peaceful this tomb was compared to the busier Luxor Valley of the Kings tombs. If you’re looking for a quieter spot to soak in the atmosphere, this one’s worth it. Just be prepared for a steep climb to get there!
Did you know Merenptah was one of Ramses II’s many children? Yes—the same Ramses II who built the mighty Abu Simbel. If you’re planning a trip there too, don’t miss my full guide to Abu Simbel from Aswan.
2. Ramses IV (KV2)
If you’re looking for a colorful start to your adventure through the Luxor Valley of the Kings tombs, Ramses IV’s tomb is a fantastic choice. It’s right near the entrance, super easy to find, and has a gentle slope with no tricky stairs.
The ceiling alone is worth it—imagine deep blue skies dotted with golden stars, with the goddess Nut arching protectively overhead. I even spotted some ancient Coptic graffiti here, kind of like what you might notice at Philae Temple in Aswan.
What really stood out? There are no glass barriers here, so you can get right up close to the vibrant artwork and take some amazing photos. Just take your time, respect the space, and wait your turn for those perfect shots!
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3. Tausert and Setnakht (KV14)
This is the largest of the Valley of the Kings tombs, combining chambers for Queen Tausert and King Setnakht. The long passageways and grand hall are totally worth exploring. It’s a bit of a walk from the entrance, but that just means fewer crowds and a peaceful atmosphere.
I wasn’t sure if the trek under the hot Egyptian sun would be worth it, but it absolutely was. We practically had the tomb to ourselves—except for a friendly local who offered to take our photos (for a small tip, of course!).
Best Time to Visit the Valley of the Kings
I visited the Luxor Valley of the Kings in January, and it was fantastic! The cooler weather made it so much more comfortable, though it did warm up by midday. If you can, plan your trip for winter or early spring to avoid the intense heat. And if you’re curious, I’ve written a whole post on the worst time to visit Egypt.
4. Ramses III (KV11)
Ramses III’s tomb is one of the most colorful and best-preserved in the Luxor Valley of the Kings tombs. The vivid artwork tells the story of his 30-year reign, and I loved the quirky bend in the passageway—turns out, the builders ran into another tomb and had to change course!
It’s a smaller tomb, so it can get crowded. I’d suggest visiting early to beat the rush. Also, the guards can be strict about photography, so stand your ground if you want to take your own photos.
Pro Tip: At Ramses IV’s tomb, the guard forgot to clip my ticket, and my sister accidentally handed over a ticket from another site—so we both got into an extra tomb for free!
5. Ramses IX (KV6)
I didn’t get a chance to visit Ramses IX’s tomb myself, but I’ve heard it’s one of the best tombs to visit in the Luxor Valley of the Kings. The burial chamber is packed with colorful scenes from the Book of the Dead and the Book of Night, and glass panels help keep the artwork protected.
This tomb is super easy to access, with a wide entrance and a gentle ramp—no stairs! Plus, it’s close to the entrance, making it a great pick if you’re short on time or just want to avoid the crowds.
Other Valley of the Kings Tombs to Visit
I think the five I mentioned earlier are truly the best tombs to visit in the Luxor Valley of the Kings with a general ticket. But if you’re up for more, there are plenty of other tombs worth checking out:
- Ramesses I (KV16): Small but significant, with a lovely painted burial chamber.
- Ramesses VII (KV1): Quiet, simple, and a peaceful break from the crowds.
- Seti II (KV15): Small, elegant, and far from the entrance—great for history lovers.
- Thutmose IV (KV43): Colorful artwork, unique layout, and a bit of a climb.
- Siptah (KV47): Long corridor, sarcophagus, and usually fewer crowds.
Also, keep an eye out for two tombs that are usually closed: Horemheb (KV57) with vibrant god paintings, and Thutmose III (KV34), famous for its starry ceiling. If you’re lucky enough to catch them open, don’t miss out!
Extra Tombs to Visit in Luxor’s Valley of the Kings
If you’re ready to go beyond the standard ticket, here are a few extra Valley of the Kings tombs that are absolutely worth a visit.
6. Tutankhamun (KV62)
For an extra 700 EGP (about $14), you can visit the most famous of all the Valley of the Kings tombs—King Tutankhamun’s.
Despite the mixed reviews I’d read online, I genuinely think it’s worth the extra ticket. Yes, the tomb is smaller and simpler than others, but the colorful wall art is beautifully preserved. Plus, it’s the only tomb in the Luxor Valley of the Kings that still holds a pharaoh’s actual mummy.
Seeing a real mummy was one of my top reasons for visiting Egypt, so I couldn’t resist! Discovered by Howard Carter in 1922, the boy-king’s tomb was nearly intact, packed with over 5,000 treasures—including the iconic gold mask (now at the Egyptian Museum, soon moving to the Grand Egyptian Museum).
Bonus Tip: If you’re lucky, a guard nearby might offer to snap a close-up of the mummy for a small tip. And of course, don’t miss the chance to take that classic entrance photo!
7. Ramses V & VI (KV9)
For about 220 EGP (around $4.40), this joint tomb of Ramses V and Ramses VI is the one Luxor Valley of the Kings tomb I really wish I hadn’t missed!
Everyone I spoke to raved about the vivid wall paintings, the star-filled ceiling, and the massive burial chamber covered in intricate hieroglyphs. Thanks to the extra ticket price, you might just get this incredible tomb all to yourself!
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8. Seti I (KV17)
Seti I’s tomb is the most expensive in the Luxor Valley of the Kings, costing around 2000 EGP (about $40), but many say it’s also the most spectacular. It’s huge, packed with stunning wall reliefs, a starry ceiling, and even unfinished sketches that show how ancient artists worked.
Thanks to the steep ticket price, it’s also much quieter than other tombs.
I skipped it when visiting with my family of five, but if you’re traveling solo or as a couple and love ancient art, it’s probably worth the splurge. And if you’re thinking of solo travel, check out my guide to convincing your parents to let you travel alone!
9. Tomb Of Ay (KV 23)
While I didn’t get a chance to visit Ay’s tomb myself, I’ve heard it’s a hidden gem in the Luxor Valley of the Kings. It’s the only tomb open to the public in the West Valley, making it a bit of an adventure to reach.
It’s about a 25-minute walk through stunning scenery (so don’t forget sun protection!). Inside, you’ll find a large sarcophagus and wall art similar to Tutankhamun’s. It might not be as grand as others, but the peaceful vibe and off-the-beaten-path feel make it a must-see on any Valley of the Kings guide.
Tips for Visiting the Luxor Valley of the Kings Tombs
Visiting the Luxor Valley of the Kings tombs can feel a bit overwhelming at first, but don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. Here’s what I wish I’d known to make your trip easier:
- Arrive Early: Tombs open at 6 AM, and it’s totally worth the early start to beat both the crowds and the heat.
- Plan Your Tombs: The Valley of the Kings has over 60 tombs, but you’ll only see a few on one ticket. Pick your top three, and decide if you want to splurge on extras.
- Stay Hydrated & Protected: Bring water, wear light clothes, comfy shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat—it gets really hot!
- Photography Rules: Good news—phones and cameras are allowed for free as of 2025! But check the rules just in case.
- Cash & Cards: You can pay for your main ticket with a card, but bring small cash (10–20 EGP) for tips, snacks, and souvenirs.
- Nearby Sights: Don’t miss Hatshepsut’s Temple and the Colossi of Memnon nearby. Nefertari’s tomb in the Valley of the Queens is absolutely stunning but has been closed since March 2024.
- Respect the Tombs: Keep your voice down, avoid touching the walls, and watch for excavation work—these places are ancient treasures!
- Solo Female Safety: I felt totally safe here. The staff were kind, and everyone was respectful. Just keep an eye on your belongings.
- Facilities: There’s a café, but it’s super overpriced. Bring your own snacks. Restrooms are at the ticket office and near the entrance, with a small fee.
- Grab All Tickets at Once: Get everything you need at the visitor center. If you change your mind later, you’ll need to ride the tram back to get more tickets.
And if you’re curious about the best Egyptian snacks, don’t miss my Egyptian foods guide for all the tasty details!
How Much Does It Cost to Visit the Valley of the Kings?
When I visited Luxor in January 2025, the ticket counters were a bit chaotic. There are two separate counters—one for general tickets and one for extra tombs—so it’s best to decide exactly which Valley of the Kings tombs you want to visit beforehand.
Current Valley of the Kings Ticket Prices
- General Entry Ticket (includes 3 tombs): 750 EGP (about $15 USD); 375 EGP (about $7.50 USD) for students. You’ll need extra tickets if you want to see more than three tombs.
- Tomb of Tutankhamun (KV62): 700 EGP (about $15.50 USD); 350 EGP (about $7 USD) for students.
- Tomb of Seti I (KV17): 2,000 EGP (about $40 USD); no student discount.
- Tomb of Ramses V & VI (KV9): 220 EGP (about $4.50 USD); 110 EGP (about $2.25 USD) for students.
- Tomb of Ay (WV23): 200 EGP (about $4 USD); 100 EGP (about $2 USD) for students.
There used to be a 300 EGP (around $6 USD) photography pass and a small tram fee (20 EGP), but these seem to be free now. If the tram does cost, walking takes under 10 minutes—or you can just tip the driver.
Bonus Tip: Kids under 5 usually enter for free, and students with valid ID get discounts. If you plan to see lots of attractions, the Luxor Pass might save you money. Check out more details here.
How to Get to the Valley of the Kings from Luxor
The Valley of the Kings is located on Luxor’s west bank—chosen by pharaohs because the west symbolized the afterlife. Here’s how to easily reach it from Luxor city:
- Taxi (40–45 mins): Around 200–300 EGP ($5–10 USD). There’s no Uber in Luxor, but apps like Careem and inDrive work well. Just make sure your driver agrees to wait!
- Nile Ferry + Taxi: Cross the Nile by ferry (only 5 EGP, about $0.15 USD), then catch a taxi on the west bank. This cuts your taxi ride down to about 15 minutes.
- Guided Tour: The easiest and most stress-free option. Tours usually include hotel pick-up, an Egyptologist guide, and stops at other popular Luxor attractions.
- Public Bus: Budget-friendly but slow—only choose this if you’re not in a hurry.
- Hot Air Balloon Ride: Pricey, but absolutely unforgettable. Sunrise over Luxor and the Valley of the Kings is stunning.
- Self-Drive: Only if you’re very comfortable driving in Egypt. If you decide to rent, I suggest using Discover Cars.
Traveling from Cairo? You can take a train (book online for comfort), a GoBus (cheaper but longer), or fly (check flights on Skyscanner). Also, don’t miss my guide on unique things to do in Cairo beyond the pyramids.
Do You Need a Guide to Visit the Valley of the Kings?
You don’t technically need a guide for the Valley of the Kings—they’re not allowed inside the tombs, so they usually just give a quick overview outside before you explore on your own.
That said, I really enjoyed having a guide for my visit. I booked my Egypt trip with MEDJET Travel, and my guide Mahmoud was fantastic! He helped us pick the best Valley of the Kings tombs to visit, avoid busy times, and shared great stories about nearby spots like Hatshepsut’s Temple and the Colossi of Memnon.
If you’re traveling solo, a guide can also make you feel safer and more confident. You can hire one at the entrance (if you’re good at haggling abroad), but honestly, I’d recommend booking a private tour in advance. It’s easier, smoother, and saves a ton of time!
Where to Stay in Luxor, Egypt
Most of the main sights in Luxor, like the stunning Luxor and Karnak temples, are on the East Bank, while the Valley of the Kings sits across the Nile on the West Bank. Either way, I definitely recommend staying at least one night to soak up all the magic this incredible city has to offer!
Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Luxor:
- Malkata House: A cozy, peaceful guesthouse on the West Bank, just a short distance from the Valley of the Kings. The hosts are super welcoming!
- Sofitel Winter Palace: This East Bank gem is pure luxury, with lush gardens and Nile views. It’s been a favorite of celebs and royalty for years.
- Al Moudira: A charming boutique retreat on the West Bank with beautiful gardens and a pool—perfect for relaxing after a day exploring.
- Sheherazade Hotel Nile Villa: A mid-range gem with lovely Nile views and friendly service.
- Luxor Hilton: A comfy, modern choice on the East Bank that’s super close to temples and markets.
If you’re planning to visit other cities in Egypt, be sure to check out my detailed accommodation guides for Cairo and Aswan to help plan your perfect trip!
Traveling to Egypt? Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
Egypt is amazing—but things can go wrong fast. That’s why I never travel without insurance anymore—and honestly, you shouldn’t either.
Here are two travel insurance options I’ve personally used and genuinely recommend:
- Heymondo – Best for short trips. It covers medical emergencies, trip delays, and lost luggage. Their 24/7 app support is a lifesaver—and in many cases, you don’t even have to pay upfront.
- SafetyWing – My go-to for longer trips or remote work. It’s flexible, affordable, and even works if you’re already abroad. It covers over 170 countries and is perfect for digital nomads and backpackers.
It only takes a few minutes to sign up, but it could save you thousands—and a whole lot of stress—if something goes wrong.
Trust me: peace of mind is worth it. Get covered before you go.
FAQs About Luxor Valley of the Kings
Now that we’ve gone through the best tombs to visit in the Valley of the Kings, let’s answer some common questions travelers often ask about this incredible site.
The Valley of the Kings is famous for being the burial place of Egypt’s ancient pharaohs—including the legendary Tutankhamun. These tombs were hidden in the desert to protect the pharaohs’ treasures and ensure their journey to the afterlife. It’s a must-see if you love ancient history!
There are about 63 known tombs in the Valley of the Kings, each belonging to a pharaoh or noble. These tombs display stunning paintings and carvings. Many are still being explored, so only around 10 are open to the public in 2025, keeping the site protected.
Some of the best tombs to visit in the Valley of the Kings are Ramses III (KV11), Ramses IV (KV2), and Tausert-Setnakht (KV14). If you want to splurge, Tutankhamun and Ramses V & VI are definitely worth it. Seti I is stunning but might feel overpriced.
Visiting the Valley of the Kings usually takes about 2 to 3 hours. This gives you enough time to see several tombs and soak in the history. If you want to explore more tombs or take guided tours, plan for about half a day. Don’t forget water and sunscreen!
No, the Valley of the Kings is not older than the Pyramids of Giza. The Valley dates back to around 1539 BC, while the Pyramids were built much earlier, around 2600 BC. Both are incredible historic sites, but the Pyramids are older by about 1,000 years!
Final Thoughts on the Best Valley of the Kings Tombs
So there you have it—my take on the best tombs to visit in the Luxor Valley of the Kings. Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning for a deeper dive, I hope this guide helps you make the most of your time there.
And if you’re still feeling adventurous, consider adding the impressive Edfu Temple and the unique Temple of Kom Ombo to your itinerary. There’s so much more to discover in Egypt, and I hope you love every minute of it!
Other Egypt Travel Guides You Might Enjoy:
- Why Coptic Cairo Will Change the Way You See Egypt
- Don’t Miss This Day Trip from Cairo to Alexandria
- This 3-Day Cairo Itinerary Will Blow Your Mind
- 7 Top Things to Do in Aswan That Tourists Love
- Inside the Colorful Nubian Village You’ll Want to Visit Now
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