Petra

Petra featuring landscape views, a gorge or canyon and a sunset
Petra showing a gorge or canyon, landscape views and a ruin
Petra featuring a gorge or canyon and landscape views
Petra showing a gorge or canyon, building ruins and landscape views
Petra featuring a ruin, landscape views and a gorge or canyon


Explore an amazing sandstone canyon and marvel at the towering façades and tombs of this long-lost Jordanian city, one of the “New” Seven Wonders of the World.

Petra is the mysterious long-lost capital of the Nabatean Kingdom, once a major trading hub in the Middle East. Impressive for its tombs, churches and theaters carved out of its steep canyon walls, the archeological site obtained UNESCO World Heritage status in 1985.

With many details lost in the mists of time, it is now commonly assumed that Petra dates from around 4th century B.C. Appreciate its mysterious appeal as you wander through the narrow, natural passageway named “The Siq.” This ancient entrance is a long chasm in the rock that opens up to reveal The Treasury, the most famous of all the sights in Petra. The overall effect is like a curtain being lifted for a spectacular show, especially during the Petra By Night tour with candles.

Take your time to study the details of The Treasury, carved out of the solid sandstone canyon wall. Standing 128 feet (39 meters) high and 83 feet (25 meters) wide, this rock face building is nothing less than impressive, especially since it is over 2,000 years old.

As the canyon widens, the sight of the Nabatean tombs in the Street of Façades is another marvel. Soon, the curved expanse of The Theaterappears. Imagine the labor involved in creating this vast amphitheater, designed to hold 4,000 people.

As you progress through the canyon, more and more amazing structures appear. Royal tombs display weathered, detailed ornaments and The Great Temple hugs the hillside. Towards the end, there is one more ancient masterpiece carved out of a conical mountain peak: The Monastery. After climbing the huge stone staircase, enjoy the magnificent views.

Petra is next to the town of Wadi Musa. The archeological complex is open daily and entry fees apply. The on-site Petra Visitor Center has an informative museum, included in the ticket price. Guided tours, horse-and-carriage trips and donkey or camel rides cost extra.

Reviews of Petra

4.9
Top destination
5 - Excellent
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5 - Excellent 94%
4 - Good
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4 - Good 6%
3 - Okay
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5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Admission charge is much reduced if you visit for two days rather than for one. There is more than enough to see to spend two days there; it's a huge site.

Popular places to visit


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Petra Guest House

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Edom Hotel

Edom Hotel

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Petra Moon Luxury Hotel

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Petra Marriott Hotel

Petra Marriott Hotel

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Petra Marriott Hotel
Mövenpick Resort Petra

Mövenpick Resort Petra

5 out of 5
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Mövenpick Resort Petra
Petra Canyon Hotel

Petra Canyon Hotel

4.5 out of 5
Kings Hwy., Wadi Musa, Ma'an Governorate
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Petra Aretas Hotel

Petra Aretas Hotel

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Petra Agora Hotel

Petra Agora Hotel

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H Luxury Hotel

H Luxury Hotel

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H Luxury Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Petra

During your visit to Petra, immerse yourself in its breathtaking sights, including the iconic Treasury and Monastery. Consider joining guided tours that delve into the ancient history of the site. Additionally, explore nearby attractions such as the stunning landscape of Wadi Rum and the rich culture of the local Bedouin communities. Don't miss the chance to enjoy a captivating evening opera performance under the stars, enhancing your experience of this remarkable destination.

Shopping

In Petra, visit the local artisan shops near the entrance for unique handicrafts and souvenirs. If you’re up for a drive, explore the Souk in Wadi Musa, approximately 16.1km away, where you can find traditional Jordanian items and vibrant local markets.

Recreation

Experience the tranquil atmosphere at The Sanctuary Spa, where you can indulge in rejuvenating treatments and calming massages surrounded by the beauty of Petra. For outdoor relaxation, join a guided meditation session amidst the stunning rock formations, connecting with nature and finding inner peace.

Adventure

In Petra, explore the breathtaking Siq, a narrow canyon leading to the iconic Treasury. Experience the thrill of hiking to the Monastery, where stunning views await. For the adventurous, try rock climbing on the surrounding cliffs or enjoy a guided camel trek through the ancient landscape.

Nightlife

The Nabatean Theater, situated a mile from Petra, offers a captivating blend of culture and romance under the stars. Enjoy enchanting performances that celebrate the region's heritage, making it a delightful spot for families and couples seeking a unique evening experience.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Petra

Petra offers a wealth of cultural experiences for travellers, with its most popular attractions including temples, monasteries, and archaeological sites. Exploring these points of interest will immerse you in the rich history and stunning architecture of this ancient city, making for an unforgettable visit to one of the world's most iconic destinations.

  • Great Temple: The Great Temple, located 1.1km from Petra, is a magnificent site steeped in history. With its impressive architecture and cultural significance, it showcases the grandeur of the Nabatean civilisation, offering visitors a glimpse into ancient rituals and societal structure.
  • The Monastery: Situated 1.3km from Petra, The Monastery is an awe-inspiring structure carved into the rock face. Its vast façade is a testament to the architectural prowess of the Nabateans, and the serene atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for reflection and admiration.
  • Royal Tombs: Also located 1.3km from Petra, the Royal Tombs are a collection of elaborate burial sites. Each tomb boasts intricate designs and carvings, revealing the rich cultural heritage and artistry of the Nabatean people, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Petra

To save on your visit to Petra, consider travelling during the off-peak months of January to February and August, when accommodation prices drop. Booking a hotel about a month in advance typically yields the best rates, especially on Mondays, while Fridays are the priciest. Use Expedia's search tool to filter by budget and eco-friendly options, and sort by price for the best deals. Additionally, combining your hotel with flights and activities in a package may lead to further savings. Don't forget to check for last-minute deals for potential discounts.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Petra are January to February and August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to May and October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Petra about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Petra is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Petra is Friday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences such as budget, desired location, and preferred hotel category. For instance, by selecting the Eco-certified filter, you’ll be presented with sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To discover the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save some money by combining your Petra hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.