Under $100: Luxor, Egypt

Exploring the city of Luxor is as close to quintessential Egypt as it gets. Sitting along the east bank of the Nile River, the city of Luxor offers all the desert sands, ancient sites and royal tombs you can handle — surrounded by a mix of opulent architecture and authentic eateries.

While the views may be stunning and dripping in old-world luxury, Luxor is one destination you can visit on a budget.

While in Luxor, there will be plenty of museums to see, including the Mummification Museum for roughly $11 a ticket; Luxor Museum; and the open-air stretch of ruins and statues of Karnak.

While you can explore much of Luxor by walking around, there is so much to see just outside the center, requiring a taxi or bus. Just across the river bank, travelers find the Valley of the Kings, Valley of the Queens and Temple of Hatshepsut. Enlist the help of a tour to bundle it all for an affordable price, or maneuver your own way with the help of your hotel concierge, or handy map.

While at the Temple of Hatshepsut, guests can explore the bazaar and shop local, handmade goods, open daily and offering free parking. You can also hop on a shuttle for about $6.

When you get back to your hotel, check out the nearby areas for local, cheap eats. You’ll have plenty of options within budget or splurge at your hotel — after a long day of landmark hunting and exploring, you’ve earned it. Luckily for your wallet, even a splurge at a 5-star hotel in Luxor is a reasonable price.