Valley of the Queens

The Valley of the Queens lies at the southern end of Luxor’s West Bank. It was the burial place of royal wives and of princes and princesses, mainly of the 19th and 20th Dynasties. More than 90 tombs are known, but only a few are open at any one time, and several have some of the finest painted decoration in Egypt.

What to see

The most famous tomb belongs to Nefertari, the favourite wife of Ramesses II. Discovered in 1904, its walls are covered in brightly painted scenes of the queen with the gods. It has been closed for conservation since March 2024, and in mid-2026 there were reports that it would reopen with a high-priced special ticket; check the current position before you go. The general ticket covers a rotating selection of other tombs, often including those of Ramesses III’s sons, whose paintings keep strong colours.

Visiting tips

• Allow about an hour for the general ticket. The site is usually much quieter than the Valley of the Kings.
• Photography rules are posted at each tomb; flash is not allowed.
• It combines easily with Medinet Habu and Deir el-Medina, both a few minutes away.

Getting there

Cross to the West Bank by ferry or the road bridge, then take a taxi or join a West Bank tour. Buy the general ticket at the site entrance. Special tomb tickets, when offered, may be sold only at certain ticket offices.

Last checked October 2026. Sources: mota.gov.eg, earthtrekkers.com, ultimahora.com, lonelyplanet.com.