Petra in Jordan is an ancient city renowned for its stunning rock-cut architecture and history. Dubbed the “Rose City” due to the reddish-pink color of its stone buildings, Petra was the wealthy capital of the Nabatean Kingdom in the 4th century BCE. It is home to breathtaking buildings like the Treasury (Al-Khazneh) and the Monastery (Ad-Deir), which are carved directly into the cliffs. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Petra is a must-see for history enthusiasts and travelers seeking to witness one of the world’s most spectacular archaeological wonders.
Location Of Petra
Petra is located in Jordan, a country in the Middle East. It is situated in the southern part of the country, near the town of Wadi Musa.
History Of Petra Jordan
Petra, Jordan, has an interesting history of more than 2,000 years. It was founded by the ancient Arab people known as the Nabateans in the 4th century BCE. The Nabateans were skilled traders, and Petra’s location at the intersection of major trade routes made it a thriving center for commerce. They developed a sophisticated water management system; as a result, they managed to flourish in the arid desert environment.
The city is famous for its impressive rock-cut architecture, including the Treasury (Al-Khazneh) and the Monastery (Ad-Deir), both carved out of the sandstone cliffs. Petra’s buildings and tombs reflect a blend of Greek, Roman, Egyptian, and local Nabatean styles.
Petra was absorbed into the Roman Empire in 106 CE when the Nabateans lost control of the region. Under Roman rule, the city continued to be important but gradually fell into disrepair as trade patterns changed and natural disasters, including earthquakes, damaged the buildings. By the 7th century, Petra was largely abandoned.
In the 12th century, Europeans became aware of the city following the passage of the Crusaders through the area. However, it wasn’t until Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt rediscovered Petra for the West in 1812 that the city gained attention. Since then, Petra has become one of the world’s most significant archaeological sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Today, Petra is a symbol of ancient wisdom and a globally renowned tourist destination, attracting individuals from all over the world to come and gaze in awe at its stunning architecture and heritage.
How To Visit Petra Jordan
Visiting Petra, Jordan, is a remarkable experience, and here’s how you can plan your visit:
1. Getting to Petra
- By Air: The nearest international airport is Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) in Amman, the capital of Jordan, which is about 3 hours’ drive from Petra. You can book a flight to Amman from major international cities.
- By Bus: From Amman, you can take a bus to Petra. Which costs 26$ to 308$. The JETT bus company offers daily services from Amman to Petra costs around $26. The trip takes about 3 hours and 15 minutes. which is convenient for travelers. Please note that earliest bus from Amman to Petra leaves at 6:30 AM and last bus from Amman to Petra leaves at 7:00 AM.
- By Car: Renting a car is another option for flexibility. The drive from Amman to Petra is around 3 hours, and the roads are well-maintained. Car rental prices from Amman to Petra, Jordan range from around $23 to $66 per day, depending on the type of car.
- By Taxi: Taxis are also available, but they can be more expensive than buses or car rentals which costs around 120$ to 160$ for a one way trip.
2. Entry to Petra
- Petra Visitor Center: The main entrance to Petra is through the Petra Visitor Center, located in Wadi Musa, the town nearest to Petra. Here, you can buy tickets, get maps, and access services.
- Ticket Prices: As of now, the entrance fee starts from 50 Jordanian Dinars for a one-day ticket. There are discounts for Jordanian residents and for those staying longer (2 or 3-day passes). But children under 12 years old are free of charge.
- Guided Tours: You can hire a local guide at the Visitor Center for a more informative experience. Petra tour guides can cost between $50 to $500+ depending on the tour length and type.
3. Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are ideal times to visit, offering pleasant weather.
- Summer (June to August) can be very hot, especially in the afternoons.
- Winter (December to February) may be chilly, but there are fewer crowds.
4. What to See
- Al-Siq: A narrow, winding canyon that leads to the heart of Petra.
- The Treasury (Al-Khazneh): Petra’s most famous monument, a breathtaking structure carved into the rock.
- The Monastery (Ad-Deir): A large and impressive structure, often less crowded than the Treasury.
- The Royal Tombs: A collection of elaborate burial chambers.
- The Roman Theater: An ancient amphitheater with seating for thousands.
5. Exploring Petra
- Walking: Petra is best explored on foot. The main archaeological sites are connected by paths that wind through the canyon and rocky terrain.
- Donkey and Camel Rides: For a more leisurely way to explore, you can hire a donkey or camel.
- Hiking: There are various hiking routes, like the path to the High Place of Sacrifice or to the Monastery, that offer stunning views of the city.
6. Other Tips
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be walking a lot, so comfortable, sturdy shoes are essential.
- Bring Water: Petra is in a desert region, so staying hydrated is important, especially if you’re visiting in the summer.
- Expect Crowds: Petra is a popular tourist destination, so visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon can help you avoid peak crowds.
- Stay for the Petra by Night: This is a magical experience where the Treasury is illuminated by candles, and you can enjoy a tranquil atmosphere.
Hotels In Petra Jordan
Here are some popular hotels in Petra, Jordan, with approximate price ranges for each:
1. Movenpick Resort Petra
- Price Range: $150–$250 per night
- A luxurious 5-star resort located near the Petra Visitor Center, offering upscale amenities, a swimming pool, multiple restaurants, and comfortable rooms with views of the Petra Mountains.
- movenpick.accor.com/
2. Petra Marriott Hotel
- Price Range: $100–$200 per night
- A 5-star hotel located a short drive from Petra, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, multiple dining options, and a range of leisure facilities.
- www.marriott.com
3. Petra Guest House Hotel
- Price Range: $60–$140 per night
- A mid-range hotel conveniently located just steps from the entrance to Petra, offering comfortable rooms and a cozy atmosphere. Guests can also enjoy a famous on-site cave bar.
- www.petraguesthousehotel.com
4. Al-Anbat Hotel & Restaurant
- Price Range: $40–$80 per night
- A budget-friendly hotel located about 2 km from Petra, offering simple, clean rooms and an on-site restaurant serving local dishes.
- Website
5. The Taybet Zaman Hotel & Resort
- Price Range: $120–$180 per night
- A beautiful resort located 12 km from Petra, offering traditional-style rooms, a large outdoor pool, and an authentic Jordanian atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing stay.
- Website
6. Petra Panorama Hotel
- Price Range: $60–$145 per night
- Located near the Petra site, this hotel offers a good balance of quality and affordability, with clean rooms, a restaurant, and stunning views of Petra.
- Website
7. Cave Bar Hotel
- Price Range: $70–$150 per night
- Situated just a short walk from Petra, this hotel is famous for being built inside a 2,000-year-old Nabatean cave. It offers a unique experience, with a combination of modern comfort and ancient history.
- Website
8. Wadi Musa Hotel
- Price Range: $30–$60 per night
- A budget hotel located in the town of Wadi Musa, offering basic amenities and convenient access to the Petra site. Ideal for budget travelers.
- Website
9. Sunset Hotel Petra
- Price Range: $60–$100 per night
- Located a short drive from Petra, this hotel offers comfortable rooms, a rooftop terrace with views of the surrounding area, and free shuttle services to the Petra site.
- www.sunset.gr
10. La Maison Hotel
- Price Range: $95–$130 per night
- A mid-range hotel with modern amenities, offering spacious rooms and a great location close to Petra. Guests can enjoy delicious meals at the on-site restaurant.
- lamaisonhotel.com
These prices are approximate and may vary depending on the time of year, availability, and special promotions.
Best Things To Do In Petra
Petra, often referred to as the “Rose City” due to its stunning pink sandstone cliffs, is one of the most incredible archaeological sites in the world. Nestled in Jordan, Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a rich history that spans over 2,000 years. Here are some of the best things to do in Petra:
1. Walk Through the Siq
The Siq is the main entrance to Petra, a narrow, winding gorge that leads visitors to the heart of the ancient city. The journey through the Siq is like stepping into a natural tunnel, with towering sandstone walls on either side. The path ends at one of Petra’s most iconic sites, the Treasury (Al-Khazneh). This dramatic entry gives you a glimpse of Petra’s grandeur, making it a must-see.
2. Marvel at the Treasury (Al-Khazneh)
The Treasury is Petra’s most famous monument and one of the most impressive facades in the world. Carved directly into the rock, this stunning structure was originally built as a tomb for a Nabatean king. The intricate details of the façade, which has a mix of Hellenistic and Eastern architectural styles, make it a breathtaking sight. The sheer scale and beauty of the Treasury are jaw-dropping, and it’s the most photographed spot in Petra.
3. Explore the Monastery (Ad-Deir)
After trekking through the Siq, the Monastery (Ad-Deir) is a quieter, less-visited site but equally magnificent. Larger than the Treasury, the Monastery is carved into the cliffs and surrounded by scenic views of the Petra valley. The hike to the Monastery is a challenge, but the reward is a peaceful atmosphere and a chance to reflect on Petra’s history.
4. Visit the Royal Tombs
The Royal Tombs, located near the main path of Petra, are a series of intricate tombs carved into the rock face. The most famous among them is the Urn Tomb, known for its stunning façade and the sarcophagus inside. Other tombs include the Silk Tomb, the Corinthian Tomb, and the Palace Tomb. These monuments provide a glimpse into the funerary traditions of the Nabateans and the craftsmanship that went into creating them.
5. Hike to the High Place of Sacrifice
One of the most rewarding hikes in Petra, the High Place of Sacrifice takes visitors to the top of a hill with panoramic views of Petra and the surrounding desert. It’s a sacred site where ancient Nabateans performed religious rituals. The hike itself is moderately challenging but offers a chance to explore smaller temples and view the city from above, offering spectacular photo opportunities.
6. Take a Camel Ride
For a truly authentic experience, take a camel ride through the desert landscape surrounding Petra. Riding a camel through the ancient streets of Petra, particularly along the Siq or around the Treasury, offers a glimpse into the past, when camels were the main mode of transport in this region.
7. Watch Petra by Night
If you’re in Petra, the Petra by Night experience is not to be missed. Every Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, visitors can experience the magic of Petra under the stars. Thousands of candles light up the path leading to the Treasury, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. As you walk through the Siq, the only sound is the soft melody of traditional Bedouin music, adding to the mystical experience.
8. Explore Little Petra (Siq al-Barid)
Just a short drive from the main site of Petra, Little Petra offers a more tranquil and less-crowded experience. This site features smaller, well-preserved rock-cut buildings and is believed to have been a caravanserai (resting place for traders). The architecture is similar to the main site but on a smaller scale, and the peaceful atmosphere allows for a relaxed exploration of Petra’s wonders.
9. Visit the Roman Theater
The Roman-style theater in Petra is an impressive structure carved into the mountainside. It once seated over 3,000 spectators and is a testament to the influence of Roman culture on the Nabatean Kingdom. The theater is still used for cultural events and performances, making it a lively spot to visit.
10. Hike to the Al-Madhbah (The Altar)
For panoramic views over Petra, hike to Al-Madhbah, a flat area atop a hill that was used for sacrificial rituals by the Nabateans. The hike can be challenging, but the view is absolutely worth it. From the top, you’ll see sweeping views of Petra, including the Treasury and the Monastery in the distance.
11. Discover Petra’s Water System
Petra was a marvel of engineering, with an intricate system of water channels, cisterns, and dams that allowed it to flourish in the desert. Visit the Petra Basin and other water-related sites to learn about the advanced hydraulic systems that helped the Nabateans thrive in such a harsh environment.
12. Relax at the Basin Area
After a day of exploration, take a break at the quiet Basin Area. It’s a serene part of Petra that offers a peaceful escape from the more crowded sections. Relax and reflect while taking in the natural beauty of Petra’s surroundings.
13. Explore the Byzantine Church
Petra is not just a Nabatean city; it also has traces of Byzantine influence. The Byzantine Church, discovered in the 1990s, is known for its well-preserved mosaics, which depict a variety of animals and biblical scenes. It offers a glimpse into the city’s later history when Petra was part of the Byzantine Empire.
14. Climb to the Lion Monument
A small but interesting monument, the Lion Monument is carved into the rock and features a lion’s head. It’s located in a quieter part of Petra and offers a peaceful setting with stunning views of the city.
15. Visit the Petra Archaeological Museum
Before or after exploring Petra, stop by the Petra Archaeological Museum to learn about the history of the site. The museum showcases artifacts from the Nabatean, Roman, and Byzantine periods, providing context for the monuments you’ll see.