Petra - brown and white concrete building on brown rocky mountain during daytime
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Petra

4.6
·491k reviews·Petra, Spain

An ancient city carved into rose-red cliffs, Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
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Petra - brown and white concrete building on brown rocky mountain during daytime

Petra

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An ancient city carved into rose-red cliffs, Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Petra is a vast ancient city, not just the Treasury. Plan for at least a full day, ideally two."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear Comfortable Shoes! :athletic_shoe:

You'll be doing a LOT of walking and climbing. Sturdy, broken-in shoes are essential for exploring Petra.

Stay Hydrated! :droplet:

Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. There are vendors, but it's best to be prepared.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Treasury (Al-Khazneh)

The Treasury (Al-Khazneh)

Main entrance area

The iconic facade carved into the sandstone cliff. A breathtaking reveal after the Siq walk.

TikTok
The Monastery (Ad-Deir)

The Monastery (Ad-Deir)

High up in the mountains

Even larger than the Treasury, this monumental structure requires a hike but offers stunning views.

Instagram
The Siq

The Siq

Entrance path

A narrow, winding gorge with towering sandstone walls leading to the Treasury. Magical and dramatic.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Give Yourself Ample Time

Petra is vast! Don't just see the Treasury. Plan for at least a full day, ideally two, to explore the ancient city's many tombs, temples, and trails. Many visitors underestimate the scale and leave too soon. TikTok+1

Beat the Crowds & Heat

Arrive early, ideally at opening, to experience the Siq and Treasury with fewer people and cooler temperatures. The midday sun can be intense, especially during warmer months. TikTok

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium
When
Petra by Night
Why
Magical candlelit experience
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Petra Travel Guide Do’s and Don’ts #travel #petra #culture #arab
@arabicmclovin
248.6K likes • 3.3M views

Wear Comfortable Shoes! :athletic_shoe:

You'll be doing a LOT of walking and climbing. Sturdy, broken-in shoes are essential for exploring Petra. TikTok

Stay Hydrated! :droplet:

Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. There are vendors, but it's best to be prepared. TikTok

Everything you need to know before you visit Petra😍🇯🇴 I always thought Petra was one of those monuments where you walk up, look at it for a second, then go home🚶‍♀️ That is NOT the case. “Petra” is actually the name of the WHOLE ancient city. Think of it like visiting a National Park in terms of how much exploring there is. The famous part is The Treasury- this is the part you always see pictures ...
@leannacoy
28.7K likes • 287.2K views
🇯🇴 Tips for visiting Petra in Jordan ⬇️⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ The Ancient city of Petra was once the trading centre and capital of the Nabataean empire who settled in Jordan over 2000 years ago. Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the new Seven Wonders of World. The site was lost to the western world for hundreds of years, sitting empty and in ruins until the 1800s when it was rediscovered and excava...
kelseyinlondon
988K likes • 11.5M views

Consider a Guide :man_detective:

A local guide can offer historical insights and help you discover hidden spots. TikTok

Allow More Than a Few Hours :clock1:

Petra is a vast ancient city, not just the Treasury. Plan for at least a full day, ideally two. TikTok

Petra 🔥 The Treasury, le monument le plus connu de Jordanie vaut le détour… surtout vu d’en haut, après une centaine d’étages gravie. Mais ce n’est pas le seul à voir à Petra. The Monastery est encore plus grand. Le Great Temple est impressionnant. The Theater, excellemment bien conservé. A chaque tête tournée, une nouvelle merveille s’offre à vous. Foncez ! #Petra #Jordan #VisitJordan #The...
giuliacck
3.9M likes • 40.5M views

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear Comfortable Shoes! :athletic_shoe:

You'll be doing a LOT of walking and climbing. Sturdy, broken-in shoes are essential for exploring Petra. TikTok

Stay Hydrated! :droplet:

Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. There are vendors, but it's best to be prepared. TikTok

Consider a Guide :man_detective:

A local guide can offer historical insights and help you discover hidden spots. TikTok

Allow More Than a Few Hours :clock1:

Petra is a vast ancient city, not just the Treasury. Plan for at least a full day, ideally two. TikTok

Bring Snacks & Treats :apple:

Pack some snacks, and consider bringing treats for the local cats you'll encounter. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently rave about Petra's awe-inspiring beauty and historical significance, with the Treasury and Monastery being major highlights. Many are surprised by the sheer size of the ancient city and recommend allocating ample time for exploration. Some find the midday heat challenging and advise arriving early. TikTok+1

What People Like

Breathtaking rock-cut architecture
Iconic Treasury reveal
Vastness of the ancient city

What People Dislike

Intense midday heat
Extensive walking required

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common way is the JETT bus, which runs once daily from Amman at 6:30 AM and returns at 5:00 PM. The journey takes about 3-3.5 hours. TikTokReddit Alternatively, you can hire a private driver or take a taxi, which offers more flexibility but is more expensive. TikTok Some travelers also opt for the Jet Bus for a more local experience. TikTok

Yes, you can drive to Petra. The drive from Amman is approximately 3 hours. TikTok Parking is available near the visitor center. If you're renting a car, ensure it's suitable for the roads. TikTok

The primary way to explore Petra is on foot. For longer distances within the site, you can hire a horse-drawn carriage through the Siq or a donkey for steeper climbs. TikTok Be prepared for extensive walking. TikTok

Yes, many tour operators offer day trips or multi-day tours from Amman to Petra. These often include transportation and sometimes a guide. TikTok

Petra is about a 2-hour drive from Aqaba. You can arrange transportation through your hotel or local tour operators. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices vary depending on your length of stay in Jordan. For tourists staying at least one night in Jordan, a one-day pass is typically around 50 JOD. TikTok If you are on a day trip from Israel or Egypt, the price is significantly higher. TikTok

Petra is generally open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM during the summer months and 6:00 AM to 4:00 PM during the winter months. TikTok Check the official website for the most up-to-date hours. TikTok

While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance online can save you time at the visitor center, especially during peak season. TikTok

Yes, Petra by Night is a special event held on select evenings (usually Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday). It offers a magical experience with the Siq and Treasury lit by thousands of candles. TikTok+1

The standard Petra ticket grants access to the main archaeological site, including the Siq, Treasury, Monastery, and various tombs and temples. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

A significant amount! The walk from the visitor center through the Siq to the Treasury is about 2 km (1.2 miles) one way. Exploring further to the Monastery adds several more kilometers and elevation. TikTok+1 Wear comfortable shoes! TikTok

Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended, especially during warmer months. Comfortable walking shoes are a must. TikTok Consider a hat and sunscreen for sun protection. TikTok

Yes, there are several cafes and restaurants within the Petra site, offering refreshments and meals. TikTok Some offer stunning views. TikTok

Yes, there are viewpoints that offer a higher perspective of the Treasury. These often involve a hike up the cliffs, sometimes guided by local Bedouins. TikTokInstagram

Petra can be enjoyed by children, but be prepared for a lot of walking. Consider hiring a donkey for younger children on some of the steeper paths. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The reveal of the Treasury at the end of the Siq is iconic. TikTok For unique perspectives, consider the viewpoints above the Treasury Instagram and the dramatic landscapes around the Monastery. Instagram The Siq itself offers incredible photographic opportunities. TikTok

Early morning offers softer light and fewer crowds for the Treasury. TikTok Late afternoon provides a beautiful golden hour glow on the sandstone. TikTok

Photography is generally allowed inside the tombs, but be respectful of the historical site. Flash photography might be restricted in some areas. TikTok

Experiment with wide-angle lenses to capture the grandeur of the Siq and the facades. For the Treasury, try to frame it with the Siq's opening. TikTok Look for details in the intricate carvings. TikTok

Drone usage is generally restricted within archaeological sites like Petra to preserve the environment and visitor experience. Always check local regulations before flying a drone. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Petra can be an incredible adventure for families, but it requires preparation. The sheer scale means lots of walking, so bring plenty of water and snacks TikTok and ensure everyone has comfortable, sturdy shoes.TikTok For younger children, consider hiring a donkey for some of the steeper or longer stretches, especially the climb to the Monastery. TikTok The dramatic Siq and the reveal of the Treasury are usually big hits with kids, sparking their imagination. TikTok Look for opportunities to spot the local cats that roam the site, which can be a fun distraction. TikTok

🚶 Budget Travelers

To visit Petra on a budget, consider using the JETT bus from Amman, which is the most economical public transport option. TikTok Pack your own food and plenty of water to save on onsite purchases. TikTok While hiring guides or transport within Petra can add up, prioritize what's essential for your experience. TikTok Look for budget-friendly accommodation in Wadi Musa, the town adjacent to Petra. TikTok Visiting Petra as part of a longer trip in Jordan can also help spread out costs. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Petra is a photographer's dream! Aim for early morning light for the iconic Treasury shot with fewer crowds. TikTok The Siq itself offers dramatic perspectives with its towering walls. TikTok Don't miss the viewpoints above the Treasury Instagram and the grand scale of the Monastery.Instagram Consider visiting during golden hour in the late afternoon for warm, evocative light. TikTok Look for intricate details in the rock carvings and experiment with different angles to capture the vastness of the site. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Significance of Petra

Petra, often called the 'Rose City' due to the color of its sandstone, was the capital of the Nabataean kingdom around the 4th century BC. The Nabataeans were skilled traders and engineers, carving their city directly into the rock faces. Their strategic location made Petra a vital hub for trade routes connecting Arabia, Egypt, and Syria. Instagram The city flourished for centuries, showcasing impressive architectural and hydraulic engineering. Instagram

Later, Petra came under Roman rule and eventually declined after earthquakes and shifts in trade routes. It was largely abandoned and 'lost' to the Western world for centuries, known only to local Bedouin tribes. Its rediscovery in 1812 by Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt brought it back to global attention, leading to its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Instagram

Today, Petra stands as a testament to the ingenuity of the Nabataeans and offers a glimpse into a rich ancient civilization. The sheer scale and artistry of the rock-cut architecture continue to awe visitors, making it a must-see destination for history buffs and travelers alike. TikTok

Navigating Petra: Trails and Exploration

Petra is far more than just the Treasury. The site spans a vast area, with numerous trails leading to different monuments and viewpoints. The main path from the Visitor Center leads through the Siq, a dramatic natural gorge, culminating in the iconic Treasury (Al-Khazneh). TikTok From there, the path continues to the Street of Facades, the Theater, and the Royal Tombs. Instagram

For those seeking more adventure, the hike to the Monastery (Ad-Deir) is highly recommended. This involves climbing over 800 steps but rewards you with a monumental structure even larger than the Treasury and breathtaking panoramic views. Instagram Other trails lead to the High Place of Sacrifice, offering incredible vistas over the entire valley, and to Little Petra, a smaller but equally fascinating site. TikTok

It's crucial to wear comfortable, sturdy shoes as the terrain can be uneven and involves significant walking and climbing. TikTok+1 Consider hiring a local Bedouin guide to help you navigate the less-trodden paths and discover hidden gems. TikTok Many trails are well-marked, but having a map or a guide can enhance your exploration and ensure you don't miss out on the site's full scope. TikTok

The 'Petra by Night' Experience

Petra by Night is a unique event that transforms the ancient city into a magical spectacle. Held on select evenings, the Siq and the area in front of the Treasury are illuminated by thousands of candles, creating an ethereal atmosphere. TikTok+1 The experience begins with a walk through the candlelit Siq, building anticipation for the reveal of the Treasury bathed in soft light. TikTok

While the Treasury itself is the main focus, the ambiance created by the starlit sky, the quiet desert air, and the gentle glow of candles is truly unforgettable. TikTok Local Bedouins often play traditional music, adding to the cultural immersion. TikTok It's a different perspective from the daytime visit, offering a more serene and mystical encounter with Petra's grandeur. TikTok

It's important to note that Petra by Night requires a separate ticket from the daytime entrance fee. TikTok While it offers a unique experience, some visitors find it to be a bit crowded and suggest that the daytime visit is more comprehensive for exploring the entire site. TikTok However, for a truly enchanting evening, Petra by Night is a highly recommended addition to your visit. TikTok

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