Petra, Jordan Travel Guide

Discover the ancient city of Petra, Jordan’s archaeological gem, where history, culture, and stunning landscapes converge in a timeless desert wonderland.

Nestled in the rugged mountains of Jordan, Petra is an ancient city carved into rose-red cliffs. Known as the 'Lost City' and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Petra offers a journey back in time to the Nabatean civilization that thrived here over 2,000 years ago. As you enter Petra through the narrow Siq, a winding gorge flanked by towering rock walls, the first sight of Al-Khazneh, or 'The Treasury,' is breathtaking. This iconic facade, with its intricate carvings and grandiose architecture, sets the tone for the wonders that lie ahead. Beyond the Treasury, Petra unfolds as a labyrinth of temples, tombs, and ancient dwellings, each telling a story of a bygone era. Petra is not just about its historical monuments; it’s also a place of natural beauty. The pink-hued rocks change color with the shifting sun, creating a mesmerizing landscape. The hike up to the Monastery, another colossal structure, rewards you with panoramic views of the surrounding desert and mountains. In the evenings, Petra by Night offers a magical experience, with the path to the Treasury illuminated by thousands of candles, accompanied by traditional Bedouin music. Whether you are a history buff, an adventure seeker, or someone in search of unique experiences, Petra has something for everyone. Its blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural significance makes it a must-visit destination.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Petra.

Wear comfortable walking shoes as Petra requires a lot of walking and hiking.
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and the heat.
Hire a local guide to enrich your experience with historical insights and hidden spots.
Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the desert sun can be intense.
Don’t miss Petra by Night for a unique, candle-lit experience.

Neighbourhoods in Petra

Wadi Musa

Petra Archaeological Park

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Petra

Explore Petra: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Petra

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Petra Visitor Center

Discover the wonders of Petra at the Visitor Center: your gateway to ancient history and breathtaking landscapes in Jordan.

4.6

The Treasury

Discover the enchanting allure of The Treasury in Petra, an archaeological masterpiece steeped in history and stunning natural beauty.

4.8

Ad-Dayr

Explore Ad-Dayr, the magnificent Monastery in Petra, Jordan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in history and breathtaking beauty.

4.9

Al-Siq

Discover the enchanting Al-Siq, a breathtaking gorge leading to Petra, where ancient history and stunning rock formations await every traveler.

4.8

Best landmarks in Petra

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

Petra

Explore Petra, the ancient rock-cut city of Jordan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, rich in history and breathtaking views.

4.8

The Treasury

Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of The Treasury in Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases ancient Nabatean architecture and rich history.

4.8

Triclinium

Explore Triclinium in Little Petra, a captivating historical landmark showcasing ancient Nabatean architecture and serene desert beauty.

4.6

The Monastery

Explore The Monastery, Petra's majestic archaeological wonder, showcasing ancient architecture and breathtaking views in Jordan's enchanting landscape.

4.9

Best restaurants in Petra

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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Al Wadi Restaurant

Experience authentic Jordanian cuisine at Al Wadi Restaurant in Wadi Musa – where tradition meets taste in a stunning setting.

4.8

Abu Elias Restaurant

Experience authentic Jordanian cuisine at Abu Elias Restaurant in Wadi Musa - a culinary gem near Petra offering delicious dishes and warm hospitality.

4.8

Falafel Time Restaurant

Experience the rich flavors of Jordan at Falafel Time Restaurant in Wadi Musa - a must-visit for falafel lovers!

4.9

My Mom's Recipe Restaurant

Experience authentic Jordanian cuisine at My Mom's Recipe Restaurant in Wadi Musa – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

4.4

Best bars in Petra

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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All Bars

My Mom's Recipe Restaurant

Savor authentic Jordanian flavors at My Mom's Recipe Restaurant, a culinary gem in Wadi Musa offering traditional home-cooked meals.

4.4

Time Out

Experience the flavors of Jordan at Time Out Cafe in Wadi Musa, where delicious food meets warm hospitality in a charming atmosphere.

4.9

The Cave Bar

Discover the enchanting Cave Bar in Wadi Musa, where unique ambiance meets refreshing drinks amidst stunning rock formations.

4.3

Rainbow Restaurant

Experience the vibrant flavors of Jordan at Rainbow Restaurant in Wadi Musa, where local cuisine meets fast food favorites.

4.7

Best nightclubs in Petra

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Best Nightclubs

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Petra

Unveil the secrets of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where ancient architecture meets breathtaking landscapes in the heart of Jordan.

4.8

The Cave Bar

Experience an unforgettable night at The Cave Bar, where history meets modern relaxation in Wadi Musa, just steps away from Petra.

4.3

Petra Nights hotel

Experience the magic of Petra with a stay at Petra Nights Hotel, combining comfort, local flavor, and easy access to ancient wonders.

3.9

Petra Falcon Center / Fitness & Bodybuilding

Discover wellness at Petra Falcon Center, your go-to fitness destination in Wadi Musa for an invigorating travel experience.

4.8

Best shops in Petra

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Best Shops

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Petra Visitor Center

Explore the wonders of Petra at the Visitor Center, your essential guide to the ancient city’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes.

4.6

Triclinium

Experience the ancient allure of Triclinium, a historical landmark in Little Petra, where history, culture, and stunning landscapes converge.

4.6

The Monastery

Explore The Monastery, a breathtaking historical landmark in Uum Sayhoun, where ancient architecture meets stunning natural beauty.

4.9

Mövenpick Petra

Discover unparalleled luxury and comfort at Mövenpick Petra, your gateway to the ancient wonders of Petra, Jordan.

4.5

Explore Petra on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Petra, mapped for you.

Petra Essentials

Petra is located in the southern part of Jordan, approximately 240 kilometers from the capital city, Amman. The nearest airport is Queen Alia International Airport in Amman. From Amman, you can take a direct bus operated by JETT, which takes around 3-4 hours. Alternatively, you can hire a private taxi or rent a car. There are also guided tours that include transportation from Amman or Aqaba, another nearby city with an international airport.
Once in Petra, most of the site is explored on foot. For those who need assistance, there are options such as horse-drawn carriages, camels, and donkeys. Local taxis and car rentals are available for getting around the Wadi Musa town, which is adjacent to Petra. Public buses and minibusses (service taxis) also operate between Wadi Musa and other cities like Amman and Aqaba.
The official currency in Jordan is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in Wadi Musa. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and market purchases. ATMs are available in Wadi Musa, but it is good practice to withdraw sufficient cash in larger cities before arriving.
Petra and Wadi Musa are generally safe for tourists. However, like any tourist destination, it’s important to stay vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night in deserted areas and be cautious with your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay aware of your surroundings.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. There is a police station and medical facilities in Wadi Musa. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly; wear comfortable walking shoes. Avoid revealing clothing, especially when visiting religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do be respectful; give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake; men should wait for women to extend their hand first. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Petra like a local, visit the local markets in Wadi Musa where you can buy traditional Jordanian goods. Engage with locals; they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area's history and culture. Don’t miss the Petra by Night experience, where the Siq and Treasury are illuminated by thousands of candles. For a unique viewpoint, hike up to the Monastery or Al-Khubtha trail for panoramic views of Petra.

When is the best time to visit Petra?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Petra

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Petra. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
- Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaea]
- Yesنعم
  [naam]
- Noلا
  [laa]
- Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
- Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
- Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [aadra]
- How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kaif halak?]
- Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bukheir. want?]
- Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al'injlizia?]
- I don't understandأنا لا أفهم
  [ana la afham]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [urid an ara alqaimah, min fadlik]
- I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la akl allahm]
- Cheers!صحتين!
  [sahatein]
- I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [urid an adfae, min fadlik]
- Help!النجدة!
  [alnajdah!]
- Go away!انصرف!
  [ansharif!]
- Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [atassil bialshurtah!]
- Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [atassil bitabib!]
- I'm lostضاعت الطريق
  [daeat altryq]
- I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]
- I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [urid an ashtari...]
- I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [ana faqat atfarg]
- How much is it?كم سعره؟
  [kam saeruh?]
- That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
- Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك تخفيض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk takhfid alsaeer?]
- What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alsaeah?]
- It's one o'clockالواحدة
  [alwahidah]
- Half past (10)عشر ونصف
  [ashar wansf]
- Morningصباح
  [sabah]
- Afternoonمساء
  [masa]
- Eveningمساء
  [masa]
- Yesterdayالبارحة
  [albarihah]
- Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
- Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
- 1واحد
  [wahid]
- 2اثنين
  [ithnayn]
- 3ثلاثة
  [thalathah]
- 4أربعة
  [arbahah]
- 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
- 6ستة
  [sittah]
- 7سبعة
  [sabahah]
- 8ثمانية
  [thamaniah]
- 9تسعة
  [tisah]
- 10عشرة
  [asharah]
- Where's a/the...?أين...
  [ayn...]
- What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma hu al'anaan?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk an tureeni (ala alkharitah)?]
- When's the next (bus)?متى الحافلة القادمة؟
  [mata alhafilah alqadimah?]
- A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [tazkirah (ila ...)]

History of Petra

Petra, originally known as Raqmu, was established as the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom around the 4th century BCE. The Nabataeans were a nomadic Arab tribe who settled in the area and created a prosperous trading empire. Petra's strategic location allowed it to control the trade routes that linked Arabia, Egypt, and the Mediterranean.
The Nabataeans were master engineers and architects, creating an advanced water management system that included dams, cisterns, and water conduits. This allowed them to thrive in the arid desert environment. The city is renowned for its rock-cut architecture and innovative construction techniques, which are epitomized in the iconic Treasury (Al-Khazneh) and the Monastery (Ad-Deir).
In 106 CE, Petra was absorbed into the Roman Empire as part of the province of Arabia Petraea. The Romans introduced their architectural styles to the city, which resulted in a unique blend of Nabataean and Roman influences. Significant structures from this period include the Colonnaded Street and the Roman Theatre, which could seat up to 8,500 spectators.
After the Roman annexation, Petra gradually declined in importance due to shifting trade routes and a series of earthquakes. By the 7th century CE, Petra was largely abandoned. The city remained lost to the Western world until it was rediscovered in 1812 by Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt, who was guided to the site by local Bedouins.
Petra was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985, recognizing its cultural and historical significance. It has since become one of the most visited archaeological sites in the world, attracting tourists, historians, and archaeologists alike. Preservation efforts continue to protect and study this ancient marvel, ensuring that future generations can appreciate Petra's legacy.

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