Petra, an archaeological city in southern Jordan, is renowned worldwide for its rock-cut architecture and intricate facades carved directly into the cliffs. For those considering things to do in Petra, exploring the Treasury, Petra’s most iconic structure, and walking through the Siq, a narrow gorge leading to the city, are top activities.
The city’s Monastery, another impressive rock-cut structure, offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Nearby, the High Place of Sacrifice provides insights into the religious practices of the ancient Nabataeans who built Petra.
Beyond its archaeological wonders, Petra is also known for its unique setting amidst rugged desert canyons and mountains, offering numerous hiking and photography opportunities. For those seeking the best places to visit in Jordan, Petra’s blend of historical significance, architectural mastery, and natural beauty makes it a captivating destination.
Attractions & Things to Do in Petra, Jordan
1. The Siq
The Siq is a narrow gorge, the main entrance to the ancient city of Petra, and one of the most dramatic natural features in the region. Walking through this 1.2-kilometer-long cleft in the sandstone mountains builds anticipation before revealing Petra’s most famous monument, Al-Khazneh (The Treasury).
Location: Entrance to Petra, Wadi Musa, Jordan.
Scenic Spot: A dramatic 1.2 km-long narrow gorge leading to Al-Khazneh (The Treasury), with high rock walls on both sides.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but the walk can be long and uneven, which may be challenging for elderly visitors or very young children.
Price: Included in Petra entry fee (€67 for a 1-day pass).
Travel Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the path can be rocky and uneven. Visiting early in the morning can provide a more personal experience and better light for photographs.
2. Al-Khazneh (The Treasury)
Al-Khazneh, known as The Treasury, is an awe-inspiring facade carved directly into the pink sandstone cliff face. Believed to have been a mausoleum or treasury of the Nabatean people, it is the most photographed structure in Petra.
Location: Inside Petra, at the end of The Siq.
Scenic Spot: Petra’s most famous rock-carved monument, known for its intricate pink sandstone facade.
Best Time to Visit: Morning when sunlight illuminates the structure beautifully.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but the area can be crowded.
Price: Included in Petra entry fee (€67 for a 1-day pass).
Travel Tip: The Treasury is at its most photogenic in the morning when the sunlight illuminates its intricate carvings.
3. The Monastery (Ad Deir)
Petra’s largest carved facade, The Monastery, sits at the top of an 800-step rock-cut path. It resembles The Treasury but is much larger and less ornate. The hike up can be strenuous, but the commanding views of the surrounding mountains and valleys are rewarding.
Location: Northwest of Petra’s main area, accessible via an 800-step hike.
Scenic Spot: A massive rock-carved monument similar to The Treasury but larger and offering breathtaking mountain views.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Best for adults and older children due to the strenuous uphill hike.
Price: Included in Petra entry fee (€67 for a 1-day pass).
Travel Tip: Consider riding a mule or donkey if the climb seems too daunting, but ensure that the animals are treated well by their handlers.
4. The Royal Tombs
The Royal Tombs are an impressive series of large tombs with elaborate facades carved into the mountain’s face. These include the Urn Tomb, Silk Tomb, Corinthian Tomb, and Palace Tomb, each with unique architectural details.
Location: East of the Colonnaded Street in Petra.
Scenic Spot: A series of grand rock-cut tombs with unique facades, including the Urn Tomb, Silk Tomb, and Corinthian Tomb.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon when the sunset gives the tombs a golden glow.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but some climbing is required to fully explore the tombs.
Price: Included in Petra entry fee (€67 for a 1-day pass).
Travel Tip: Late afternoon is the best time to photograph the Royal Tombs, as the setting sun casts a warm glow on the stone.
5. The Roman Theatre
Originally built by the Nabateans and later expanded by the Romans, the theatre could seat around 3,000 spectators. Carved directly out of the rock face, it serves as a testament to the ingenuity of Petra’s ancient inhabitants.
Location: Near the Royal Tombs in Petra.
Scenic Spot: A first-century amphitheater carved into the rock, capable of seating around 3,000 spectators.
Best Time to Visit: Midday for the best lighting on the structure.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but uneven terrain may be difficult for some visitors.
Price: Included in Petra entry fee (€67 for a 1-day pass).
Travel Tip: Visit the theatre mid-day when it’s well-lit and consider climbing the surrounding hills for a panoramic view.
6. The Colonnaded Street
Once the main thoroughfare of ancient Petra, the Colonnaded Street is lined with the remains of Roman columns and leads to the city center’s ruins. You can explore the remnants of shops, temples, and public buildings along the way.
Location: Central Petra, running through the main city ruins.
Scenic Spot: A historic Roman-style street lined with remnants of columns, temples, and ancient markets.
Best Time to Visit: Morning to avoid the midday heat.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with easy walking paths, though some areas have uneven surfaces.
Price: Included in Petra entry fee (€67 for a 1-day pass).
Travel Tip: Keep an eye out for the intricate stone carvings that can still be seen among the ruins.
7. The High Place of Sacrifice
For those looking for a hike, the High Place of Sacrifice offers an adventurous trek with a reward of stunning views over Petra. It is one of the city’s most sacred sites, used for religious ceremonies.
Location: A steep hike from the main Petra site.
Scenic Spot: One of Petra’s best viewpoints, offering panoramic views over the ancient city.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid the heat and for a peaceful experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Best for active travelers due to the steep climb.
Price: Included in Petra entry fee (€67 for a 1-day pass).
Travel Tip: Start this hike early to avoid the heat of the day and carry plenty of water with you.
8. Al-Beidha (Little Petra)
Often overlooked by tourists, Al-Beidha, or Little Petra, is a smaller version of Petra and believed to have served as an agricultural hub and trading suburb. It’s a short drive from the main site and provides a quieter experience.
Location: About 9 km north of Petra, accessible by car or taxi.
Scenic Spot: A smaller version of Petra with rock-cut buildings and a more secluded atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon to avoid heat.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with easy walking paths and fewer crowds.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: If you have an extra day in Petra, this is a worthwhile excursion to see more Nabatean architecture and less-crowded ruins.
9. Street of Facades
The Street of Facades is a row of monumental Nabatean tombs with large facades carved into the southern cliff face that lies opposite the Roman Theatre. The area contains over 40 tombs and houses carved into the rock face, dating from the 1st century BC.
Location: Near The Treasury, on the way to the Royal Tombs.
Scenic Spot: A long row of tombs and caves carved into the cliffs, dating from the 1st century BC.
Best Time to Visit: Late morning for good lighting and fewer crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with a mostly flat path, but some climbing is needed for closer exploration.
Price: Included in Petra entry fee (€67 for a 1-day pass).
Travel Tip: As you walk along this street, take time to notice the varying tomb styles, which reflect the diversity of influences on Nabatean culture.
10. Petra by Night
An enchanting way to experience Al-Khazneh is during the “Petra by Night” show, which features the Treasury dramatically lit by hundreds of candles. The event includes traditional Jordanian music and is an experience unlike any other.
Location: The Siq and The Treasury, Petra.
Scenic Spot: The Treasury illuminated by thousands of candles, creating a magical nighttime experience.
Best Time to Visit: Petra by Night runs on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays at 8:30 PM.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but walking through The Siq in the dark may be challenging for some.
Price: €23 per person (separate from Petra entry fee).
Travel Tip: Be sure to check the schedule as the event does not run every night, and be prepared for a potentially crowded experience.
11. Petra Archaeological Museum
The Petra Archaeological Museum provides context to the city’s artifacts and history. Although small, the museum exhibits a variety of finds from the site, which help visitors gain a deeper understanding of the ancient Nabatean culture.
Location: Near Petra’s main entrance.
Scenic Spot: A collection of artifacts and historical exhibits explaining the history of the Nabataeans.
Best Time to Visit: Before or after exploring Petra for historical context.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, an educational visit for all travelers.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: A visit to the museum is a good way to either start or finish your trip to Petra, as it can provide insights that will enrich your site experience or help make sense of what you’ve seen.
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Petra, Jordan: Ratings
Kid-Friendly Activities in Petra: 6/10 – Petra offers a few activities that can be engaging for children, such as exploring the ancient city, riding camels or donkeys, and hiking through the scenic trails. However, the focus on historical and archaeological sites may not captivate younger children for extended periods.
Nightlife in Petra: 3/10 – Nightlife in Petra is limited, with most evening activities centered around dining in restaurants and cafes. Some hotels offer traditional music and dance performances, but there are no bars or nightclubs. The atmosphere is peaceful and focused on cultural experiences.
Sport in Petra: 7/10 – Petra provides good opportunities for outdoor sports, particularly hiking and trekking through its numerous trails and archaeological sites. The surrounding desert and mountains offer excellent terrain for these activities, although facilities for other sports are limited.
Culture and Attractions in Petra: 10/10 – Petra is renowned for its rich cultural and historical attractions, including the iconic Treasury, the Monastery, and the Roman Theater. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Petra offers a profound historical experience, with well-preserved ruins and stunning rock-cut architecture.
Gastronomy in Petra: 7/10 – The culinary scene in Petra features traditional Jordanian cuisine, including dishes like mansaf, maqluba, and falafel. There are several local restaurants and cafes catering to tourists, offering a good variety of local and Middle Eastern dishes.
Shopping in Petra: 6/10 – Shopping in Petra includes local markets and souvenir shops where visitors can find traditional crafts, jewelry, and Bedouin handicrafts. While the selection is limited compared to larger cities, the items available are unique and reflective of local culture.
Prices in Petra: 6/10 – Petra can be relatively expensive, particularly in terms of accommodation and dining close to the archaeological site. However, there are budget options available, and the overall cost of visiting is reasonable given the unique and world-renowned nature of the destination.
Average price for a hotel night: $120
Cost of a lunch at a local restaurant: $15
Price of a beer: N/A (Alcohol is limited and mostly available in select hotels)
Price of a coffee: $4
Beyond the City: Exploring Surroundings and Stays in Petra, Jordan
For those looking to explore beyond the ancient city of Petra, top day trips near Petra delve into the heart of Jordan’s desert landscapes and historic sites. The vast Wadi Rum, known for its Martian-like terrain, and the serene Dana Biosphere Reserve offer adventures that are both breathtaking and enlightening.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Petra accommodations range from Bedouin camps offering an authentic desert experience to comfortable hotels located near the archaeological site, providing a restful oasis for those who have spent the day exploring one of the wonders of the world.
FAQ About Things to Do in Petra, Jordan
What are the must-see sights in Petra, Jordan?
The must-see sights in Petra include the iconic Treasury (Al-Khazneh), the Monastery (Ad-Deir), the High Place of Sacrifice, and the Royal Tombs. A walk through the Siq, a narrow gorge leading into the city, is also unforgettable.
Can I explore Petra on my own, or do I need a guide?
You can explore Petra on your own, but hiring a guide can enhance your experience as they provide historical context and may show you hidden spots you might otherwise miss. Guides can be hired at the visitor center.
Is it possible to ride a camel in Petra?
Yes, camel rides are available in Petra, offering a traditional and unique way to see the ancient city. Be sure to agree on a price before you ride.
What is the best time of day to visit Petra?
The best time to visit Petra is early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and the heat of midday. Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful light for photography.
Are there any evening activities in Petra?
Yes, ‘Petra by Night’ is a magical experience where the Treasury is lit by hundreds of candles three nights a week. It includes Bedouin music and storytelling.
What should I wear when visiting Petra?
Wear comfortable clothing, sturdy walking shoes, and a hat for sun protection. Modest clothing is recommended out of respect for local culture.
How much time do I need to see Petra?
At a minimum, you should plan to spend a full day in Petra. However, two or three days are recommended if you want to explore the area thoroughly without rushing.
Are there facilities like restaurants and restrooms inside Petra?
Yes, there are facilities within Petra, including restrooms and restaurants. However, they may be sparse in certain areas, so it’s wise to carry essentials like water and snacks.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Petra
https://www.getyourguide.com/petra-l1624/
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