Petra - Discovering Jordan

Travelling to Petra

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Petra, a pretty good destination in Jordan (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Petra and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Petra, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Jordan, here's everything to know about Petra for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Petra

Petra is an ancient city located in the southwestern part of Jordan. It is known for its stunning architecture carved into the rock, including the famous Treasury, Monastery and Siq (a narrow canyon). Petra was the capital of the Nabatean Kingdom in the 6th century BC and later became a significant center for trade and commerce. The city was rediscovered in 1812 and designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. Petra is considered one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world and is a popular tourist destination in Jordan.

What to visit in Petra

Sure, here are some tourist attractions of Petra (Jordan) with some information about each of them: 1. The Siq - It's a narrow gorge that leads to the main entrance of Petra and is over a kilometre long. It has stunning rock formations and is flanked by towering cliffs on both sides.
2. Al-Khazneh (The Treasury) - It's Petra's most popular landmark and is a masterpiece of ancient engineering with intricately carved rock facades that are over 2000 years old.
3. The Monastery (Al-Deir) - It's a large temple complex which is located at the highest point of Petra and has a stunning viewpoint of the surrounding area.
4. The Royal Tombs - These are four large tombs that belonged to the Nabataean kings and their families. They are located in the hills on the eastern side of Petra.
5. The Great Temple - It's a large structure that was built in the first century AD and is believed to have been used as a market or a meeting place.
6. The Roman Theatre - It's a semi-circular theatre that was built by the Romans in the first century AD and could accommodate 3000 spectators.
7. The Colonnaded Street - It was the main commercial street in Petra and is lined with columns and other ancient architectural ruins.
8. The High Place of Sacrifice - It's a religious site located on a mountaintop overlooking Petra and offers a stunning view of the city.
9. The Petra Museum - It's a small museum that showcases artefacts and exhibits related to Petra's history and culture.
10. The Royal Palace - It's a ruin of a palace that belonged to the Royal family of Petra and is located on the western side of the city.
Hope you find this information helpful!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Jordan, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Petra.

When to go on holiday to Petra

The best time to visit Petra is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) months. During these times, the weather is pleasant, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds, making it the perfect time to explore the ancient city. Summer months (June to August) can get extremely hot, making it uncomfortable to wander around the site, while the winter season (December to February) can get quite chilly, and there may be occasional rain. However, Petra is open year-round, so it really comes down to which season best fits your travel preferences.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Petra

To get to Petra, you can fly to the Queen Alia International Airport in Amman, Jordan, and then take a taxi or shuttle service to Petra. Another option is to take a bus or private car from Amman directly to Petra, which is about a three-hour drive. Jordan is a safe country for travel, so you should have no trouble reaching this iconic destination. It's also worth noting that Jordan is home to numerous other historical and cultural sites, so you might want to consider extending your trip to explore more of the country while you're here.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Petra, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Petra

1. Mansaf: This is the national dish of Jordan, and it is a lamb or goat meat cooked with dried yogurt, spices, and rice. It is considered a delicacy and often served during special occasions.
2. Galayet Bandora: This is a delicious dish made with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices. It is typically served with pita bread and is a great appetizer.
3. Maqluba: This dish is made with rice, eggplant, tomatoes, and either chicken or lamb. It is cooked in a pot and flipped over onto a serving dish, resulting in a beautifully layered dish.
4. Falafel: This is a popular Middle Eastern dish made with ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices. It is typically served in pita bread with toppings such as salads and sauces.
5. Kousa Mahshi: This is a dish made with stuffed zucchini. The filling consists of rice, herbs, and either ground beef or lamb.
6. Shakshuka: This dish is made with eggs poached in a sauce of tomatoes, peppers, onions, and spices. It is typically served with bread for dipping.
7. Baklava: This is a sweet dessert made of layers of phyllo dough filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup.
8. Kunafa: This is another sweet dessert made with shredded phyllo pastry, cheese, and syrup. It's a delicious treat to end any meal.
You can find general info about typical foods in Jordan here.

Is Petra an expensive destination for tourists?

Petra is considered a moderately expensive destination for tourists. The entrance fee to the Petra Archaeological Park is quite high (around $70 USD per adult), but this ticket is valid for multiple days and includes access to other nearby attractions. Additionally, accommodation in the area can be quite pricey during peak tourist season. However, there are also budget-friendly options for food, transportation, and activities available, especially if you plan ahead and do some research. With careful planning and budgeting, it is possible to enjoy Petra without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Petra

The best areas to find accommodation when visiting Petra, Jordan are in the nearby town of Wadi Musa, also known as Petra City, and the surrounding areas. There are various hotels and guesthouses located in Wadi Musa, which is located within walking distance of the Petra Archaeological Park. The town also offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and local markets. Another option for accommodation is in the nearby village of Taybeh, which is just a short distance from Petra but provides a more rural and peaceful atmosphere. Additionally, there are some hotels and resorts located in the nearby city of Aqaba, which is about an hour and a half drive from Petra. However, staying in Aqaba may require a longer commute to visit Petra.
You can check hotel prices at Petra here:
Booking.com

Is Petra a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Petra is generally considered a safe place for tourists. The Jordanian government places a high priority on maintaining a safe and secure environment for visitors. There is a strong police presence in Petra, and visitors are advised to take standard safety precautions such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of their surroundings. However, it is always a good idea to check the latest travel advisories from your own government and to exercise common sense and caution while traveling.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Jordan here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Petra.

What type of travelers will enjoy Petra the most?

Petra in Jordan is a historically rich location and can be enjoyed by all types of travelers. However, it is particularly well-suited for history buffs and adventure seekers who are interested in exploring ancient ruins and natural wonders. Families can also enjoy exploring Petra together, especially children who are fascinated by historical sites. Petra does require a lot of walking and can be physically demanding at times, so it may not be suitable for all elderly visitors or those with mobility issues. Additionally, there is not an extensive nightlife scene in Petra, so young people looking for more entertainment may want to consider other destinations in Jordan or nearby countries. However, overall, Petra is a great destination for travelers who appreciate history and natural beauty.

How to get around Petra

The best way to move around Petra in Jordan is on foot. Most of the main attractions are only accessible by walking. However, if you have difficulty walking long distances or need help getting around, you can hire a horse or a carriage at the entrance of Petra. There are also shuttle buses available to take visitors from the visitor center to the entrance of Petra. Keep in mind that these transportation options may come with an additional cost.

What to see around Petra

Certainly! Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Petra, Jordan: 1. Wadi Rum: A beautiful desert valley with stunning natural landscapes, complemented with rich Bedouin culture.• 2. Little Petra: A miniature version of Petra, easily accessible with fewer crowds and great photo opportunities.
3. Aqaba: A seaside city with access to the Red Sea, with many attractions and activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, and beach activities.
4. Dana Biosphere Reserve: A natural reserve with hiking trails, wildlife, and stunning views of the mountains and valleys.
5. Shobak Castle: A medieval fortress, a great place to explore the history and architecture of Jordan.
For every travel information about Jordan you can click here.

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