Often called the world’s greatest open-air museum, Luxor sits on the ruins of ancient Thebes. The temples of Karnak and Luxor anchor the East Bank; across the river, the Valley of the Kings hides the painted tombs of pharaohs including Tutankhamun.

Drift south to Aswan for a gentler Nubian rhythm — island gardens, the graceful Philae Temple and feluccas at golden hour. The most romantic way to link the two is a slow cruise between them.