Petra

Jordan, Middle East

Petra, the ancient city carved into rose-red cliffs, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Known for its stunning architecture like the Treasury and Monastery, visitors can explore its vast archaeological landscape, including tombs, temples, and the Siq, a dramatic gorge leading to the city. Its rich history and striking natural beauty make it an unforgettable destination for adventure seekers and history enthusiasts alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-4 days

Type

Cultural Site

Vibe

History

Airport

Ovda

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

11 Best Things to Do in Petra

1

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Treasury

Marvel at Petra's iconic monument carved from rock.

No booking required
2

Est. 2.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Hike to the Monastery

Ascend to see one of Petra's largest structures.

No booking required
3

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Walk the Siq

Stroll through the stunning narrow canyon entrance.

No booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Roman Theater

Explore the ancient amphitheater with its rich history.

No booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover the Royal Tombs

See grand burial sites of Petra's elite.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Explore Petra by Night

Experience the magical atmosphere of Petra illuminated by candles.

Booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Petra Museum

Learn about Petra's fascinating history and culture.

No booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a camel ride

Enjoy a unique perspective of Petra on a camel.

No booking required
9

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Street of Facades

Admire intricately carved tombs along this ancient path.

No booking required
10

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Great Temple

Discover one of Petra's largest and most important sites.

No booking required
11

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Enjoy local cuisine

Taste traditional Jordanian dishes in local restaurants.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~5-10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-10 (#143 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Jordanian Dinar

Majority religion

Muslim

Language

Arabic

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Mansaf

Traditional lamb dish with yogurt sauce. (National dish)

Maqluba

V

Upside-down rice and vegetable dish.

Falafel

VE

Deep-fried chickpea balls, popular snack.

Kanafeh

V

Sweet pastry soaked in syrup, cheese-filled.

Zarb

Slow-cooked meat and vegetables in a pit.

Phrases to learn

English

Arabic

Hello

Marhaban

(Mar-ha-ban)

Yes/No

Naam / La

(Nah-am / Lah)

Thank you

Shukran

(Shook-ran)

Excuse me

Afwan

(Ahf-wan)

How much?

Kam?

(Kam)