Colonnaded Street
An ancient city carved into rose-red cliffs, Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New7Wonders of the World.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Colonnaded Street
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An ancient city carved into rose-red cliffs, Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New7Wonders of the World.
"Petra is an absolute must-see, a city carved from rock that will leave you speechless."
Go Early to Avoid Crowds
Arrive before 8 AM to experience Petra's wonders with significantly fewer people.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking miles on uneven terrain. Prioritize comfort for a better experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Treasury (Al-Khazneh)
Petra's main entrance
The iconic facade carved into sandstone cliffs. A breathtaking first glimpse of Petra's ancient grandeur.

Colonnaded Street
Heart of ancient Petra
The main thoroughfare of Roman Petra, once lined with shops and homes. Imagine the bustling city life.
The Monastery (Ad-Deir)
High in the mountains
A monumental facade, larger than the Treasury, reached by a challenging but rewarding hike.

The Theatre
Near the main entrance
A Roman-style amphitheater carved directly into the rock face, capable of seating thousands.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Plan Your Petra Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Go Early to Avoid Crowds
Arrive before 8 AM to experience Petra's wonders with significantly fewer people.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking miles on uneven terrain. Prioritize comfort for a better experience.
Stay Hydrated!
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. The sun can be intense.
Consider a Guide
A local guide can offer historical insights and help you navigate the vast site.
Tips
from all over the internet
Go Early to Avoid Crowds
Arrive before 8 AM to experience Petra's wonders with significantly fewer people.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking miles on uneven terrain. Prioritize comfort for a better experience.
Stay Hydrated!
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. The sun can be intense.
Consider a Guide
A local guide can offer historical insights and help you navigate the vast site.
Book JETT Bus in Advance
If using public transport from Amman, book your JETT bus tickets early as they sell out.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about the breathtaking scale and intricate beauty of Petra, calling it a true wonder of the world. The Treasury and Monastery are standout highlights, offering unforgettable views. However, some find the extensive walking challenging, and the midday heat can be intense. Be prepared for crowds during peak times.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is the JETT bus, which runs once daily from Amman to Petra and back. Book tickets in advance as they are popular. Taxis and private drivers are also options but more expensive.
While possible, it's a very long day with early travel. Most visitors recommend at least one overnight stay to fully appreciate Petra.
The main site requires extensive walking. You can hire donkeys, camels, or horse-drawn carriages for certain sections, but be prepared to negotiate prices.
Petra is about a 2-hour drive from Aqaba, making it a feasible day trip or stopover if you're traveling between Aqaba and Amman.
You can drive to the Visitor's Centre in Wadi Musa, the town adjacent to Petra. Parking is available there.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on your length of stay in Jordan. For tourists staying at least one night, a one-day pass is typically 50 JOD.
Petra is generally open from 6 AM to 6 PM during the summer months and 6 AM to 4 PM in winter. Always check the official website for the most current hours.
It's advisable to book your tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, to save time at the entrance.
Yes, the Jordan Pass often includes your visa fee and entry to Petra along with many other historical sites in Jordan, making it a cost-effective option.
Typically, a one-day ticket allows for a single entry. If you plan to visit for multiple days, multi-day passes are available.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Petra is a vast archaeological site. Expect to walk many kilometers, especially if you plan to visit the Monastery or High Place of Sacrifice. Comfortable shoes are essential.
The Colonnaded Street is a central part of Petra, leading from the Theatre towards the Great Temple. It's best explored on foot to appreciate the ancient architecture and imagine its past.
The main path to the Treasury is relatively flat, but many areas involve stairs, uneven terrain, and steep climbs, making full accessibility challenging.
Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended. A hat and sunglasses are crucial for sun protection. Modest dress is appreciated out of respect for local culture.
Yes, there are restrooms and some vendors selling water and snacks at various points within the site, but it's wise to carry your own water.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are a few restaurants and cafes within the archaeological park, offering meals and refreshments. However, options can be limited and pricier.
You'll find local Jordanian dishes like mansaf, falafel, and shawarma, as well as international options.
Yes, bringing your own snacks and water is highly recommended, especially if you want to save money or have specific dietary needs.
The town of Wadi Musa, just outside the Petra entrance, offers a wide range of restaurants catering to tourists, from budget-friendly to upscale.
Food and drinks inside the archaeological site tend to be more expensive than in Wadi Musa. Packing your own is a good strategy for budget travelers.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a beautiful golden glow on the sandstone.
Drones are generally prohibited within the Petra archaeological park for safety and preservation reasons. Always check current regulations.
Beyond the Treasury, the Monastery, the Royal Tombs, and the view from the High Place of Sacrifice offer stunning photographic opportunities.
It's polite to ask for permission before photographing people, including the local Bedouin vendors. Some may expect a small tip.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is useful. A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the grand facades, and a telephoto can be good for details. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on the highlights that capture young imaginations, like the Treasury and the Theatre. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as options inside can be limited and expensive. Make it a treasure hunt to find different carvings or animal shapes in the rock. The Monastery hike might be too strenuous for very young children, so assess your family's stamina.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own food and plenty of water to avoid inflated prices inside the archaeological park. While hiring guides or transport within Petra can add up, consider sharing costs with other travelers if possible. Look for budget-friendly guesthouses or hostels in Wadi Musa, the town adjacent to Petra, for accommodation.
🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers
Safety is generally excellent, but always remain aware of your surroundings. Engaging with local Bedouin vendors can offer cultural insights, and you might find fellow travelers to share experiences with. The journey through the Siq and the reveal of the Treasury is a moment of pure magic that’s even more impactful when experienced solo.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Petra's Vastness
Consider breaking your visit into sections. You might dedicate the morning to the main trail and the Treasury area, then tackle the Monastery in the afternoon, or vice versa. Alternatively, if you have two days, you can explore different zones each day without feeling rushed. Remember that the sun can be relentless, so pacing yourself and taking breaks is essential for enjoying the exploration.
The History and Significance of the Colonnaded Street
Walking along the Colonnaded Street today, you can still see remnants of its former glory: the bases of columns, the foundations of shops, and the impressive facades of surrounding structures. It offers a tangible link to the daily lives of the Nabataeans and later Roman inhabitants, providing a glimpse into the city's economic and social fabric. This street was not just a path; it was the pulse of ancient Petra, where trade flourished and citizens gathered.
Experiencing Petra Solo
Safety is generally high for solo travelers in Petra, with a strong tourist presence and helpful local staff. However, as with any travel, it's wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in more secluded areas. Connecting with other travelers can also enhance the experience, whether through shared tips or simply exchanging awe-struck glances at the magnificent sights. The opportunity to explore at your own pace, linger at your favorite spots, and truly immerse yourself in the ancient city makes Petra a fantastic solo adventure.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit