Petra is one of the world’s most breathtaking archaeological sites. Known as the “Rose City,” this ancient Nabataean city carved into red sandstone cliffs is a must-see destination.
This travel guide will explain everything you need to know about visiting Petra in 2025. Find out how to get to Petra, the best time to visit, and how the Jordan Pass can save you money.
In Which Country Is Petra?
Petra is located in the southwestern desert region of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, near the town of Wadi Musa, about 150 miles from the capital city, Amman.
With more than 250,000 visitors in 2024, Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
How to Get to Petra, Jordan in 2025
If you’re an international traveler, you’ll fly into Queen Alia International Airport or King Hussein International Airport.
From there, most visitors will choose to stay in Wadi Musa, Amman, or Aqaba (a coastal city next to the Red Sea).
From Wadi Musa to Petra
- On foot: If you’re staying in central Wadi Musa, Petra is just a short walk away.
- By taxi: Local taxi services run frequently for visitors staying at hotels farther from the town center.
From Amman to Petra
- By car: Petra is a 3-hour drive (148 miles) from Amman via the Desert Highway.
- By bus: There is a JETT bus that departs daily at 06:30 AM from Abdali station.
From Aqaba to Petra
- By car: Petra is a 2-hour drive (85 miles) from Aqaba via the Desert Highway.
- By bus: There is a JETT bus that departs daily at 08:00 AM from the station.
How Much Is a Ticket to Petra?
Ticket prices depend on whether you’re staying overnight in Jordan and the number of days you plan to visit Petra.
If you’re spending the night in Jordan, you’ll pay:
- 1 day in Petra: 50 JOD
- 2 (consecutive) days in Petra: 55 JOD
- 3 (consecutive) days in Petra: 60 JOD
You can buy your tickets with cash or a credit card. Children under 12 get free entry.
Note: If you’re not spending the night in Jordan - for example, if you’re only stopping on your way to Egypt or Saudi Arabia - you’ll pay 90 JOD for a 1-day Petra ticket.
If you’re planning to see more of Jordan, most travelers prefer to buy the Jordan Pass. This tourism package covers the entrance fee to 40+ tourist sites, including Petra, and waives the single-entry visa fee (if you stay 3+ nights in Jordan).
How to apply for the Jordan Pass to visit Petra?
Applying for the Jordan Pass is fast and easy on our site.
- Complete the application form
- Pay using your preferred method (Visa, Mastercard, etc.)
- Receive your approved Jordan Pass
Our expert team will carefully review your application and verify your passport details using secure API technology.
Support is available in 15+ languages. If your application is denied, you’ll also receive a refund.
What Is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Petra?
The best time of the year to visit Petra is in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). At this time of year, daytime temperatures are mild (68°F-86°F), and nights are cool.
Summer (June to August) can get very hot, with daytime temperatures soaring above 104°F. Winter is cold and brings occasional rain.
How Much Time Do I Have to Spend in Petra?
Petra is a large archaeological site. While it’s possible to visit all the main highlights in a single day, we recommend spending at least 2 days to explore more leisurely and discover the site’s many hidden treasures.
Petra is open daily from 6:00 AM. The site closes at 17:00 PM in the wintertime and 19:00 PM in the summer months.
To make the most of your visit, plan to arrive early to avoid the crowds and midday heat. Remember to carry your Jordan Pass and passport to gain entry to Petra.
Recommended 2-day Petra itinerary
| 🗓️Day 1: | Itinerary |
|---|---|
| 6:00 AM | Arrive early at the Petra Visitor Center |
| 6:15 AM | Walk through the Siq and arrive at the Treasury just after sunrise - perfect for photos in the morning light |
| 7:00 AM | Explore the Street of Facades, the Theater, and the Royal Tombs (including the Urn, Silk, Corinthian, and Palace Tombs) |
| 8:00 AM | Hike up the Treasury Viewpoint for a stunning panoramic view |
| 10:00 AM | Descend the viewpoint and continue towards Colonnaded Street, passing by the Great Temple, the Byzantine Church, and other Nabataean and Roman ruins |
| 11:00 AM | Hike up the Monastery - one of Petra’s grandest monuments |
| 13:00 PM | Break for lunch at the on-site restaurant or enjoy a packed meal in a rest area |
| 14:00 PM | Take time to rest or explore the area around the Monastery |
| 14:30 PM | Return to the Visitor Center via the main trail |
| 17:00 PM | Exit Petra |
| 🗓️Day 2: | Itinerary |
|---|---|
| 6:00 AM | Arrive at the Visitor Center and walk towards Qasr al-Bint |
| 8:00 AM | Hike up to the High Place of Sacrifice - a long climb with sweeping panoramic views and ancient altars |
| 10:00 AM | Descend via the Wadi Farasa trail, passing by the Garden Tomb, Roman Soldier’s Tomb, and Renaissance Tomb |
| 11:00 AM | Revisit areas you may have missed or want to explore more, like the Byzantine Church mosaics or the inside of the Great Temple |
| 12:30 PM | Break for lunch at the on-site restaurant or enjoy a packed meal in a rest area |
| 14:00 PM | Walk back to the Visitor Center via the main trail |
| 16:30 PM | Visit the Petra Museum |
| 17:00 PM | End of the visit |
Optional: Visit Little Petra, a smaller archaeological site located just 5 miles from Wadi Musa.
What to Wear When Visiting Petra
Touring Petra involves a lot of walking and hiking across rocky, uneven terrain. Sturdy, comfortable closed-toe shoes or hiking boots are important.
For clothing, choose lightweight, breathable fabrics like linen or cotton to stay cool during the day. If you’re visiting Petra in the spring or autumn, be sure to pack an extra layer, as mornings can be surprisingly chilly.
Jordan is a predominantly Muslim country, and women are required to cover their shoulders and knees with long sleeves and loose-fitting pants. A headscarf is optional; however, it’s best to keep long hair neatly tied back.
There’s limited shade at the site, so remember to bring a wide-brimmed hat or cap, sunglasses, and plenty of high-SPF sunscreen.
Expert tip: Pack a flashlight or headlamp — some caves and trails in Petra are dim, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
Is Food and Drink Available Inside Petra?
Yes, there are refreshment stations and small kiosks inside Petra where you can buy drinks and snacks.
That said, it’s a good idea to bring a refillable water bottle (ideally with a purification system) if you plan on hiking to spots like the Treasury Viewpoint or the Monastery.
For a full meal, there are a few dining options inside the site, including a full restaurant. To ensure peace of mind, we also recommend keeping some cash on hand.
Best Places to Stay Near Petra
Wadi Musa is the town next to Petra and the main gateway to the site. Here, you’ll find a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets:
Luxury Hotels in Petra
Mövenpick Resort Petra:
Mövenpick Resort Petra is a luxurious 5-star hotel that first opened its doors in 1996. The hotel showcases an elegant mix of natural stone, hand-crafted woodwork, and traditional Middle Eastern design, combined with modern amenities.
Distance from Petra: 200 meters Phone: +962 3 215 71111
Petra Canyon Hotel:
Petra Canyon Hotel is a contemporary 4-star hotel with 96 fully furnished rooms and suites, and a seasonal Bedouin tent. It also features two on-site restaurants that serve both local and international cuisine.
Distance from Petra: 1.62 miles Phone: +962 3 215 4333
Mid-Range Hotel Options for Petra
Infinity Lodge:
Infinity Lodge is a charming 3-star hotel with 9 rooms, each with a private balcony boasting panoramic views. The hotel also features an outdoor terrace for guests to relax and a children’s playground.
Distance from Petra: 0.68 miles Phone: +962 7 7754 2055
Petra Karam Hotel:
Petra Karam Hotel is a modern 3-star hotel with 16 rooms, each with a private balcony or terrace that overlooks the surrounding mountains. The hotel also includes an on-site restaurant, along with a shared lounge area and an outdoor terrace.
Distance from Petra: 0.99 miles Phone: +962 7 7820 0299
Budget-Friendly Stays for Petra
Petra Town Check-In Hotel:
Petra Town Check-In Hotel is a recently refurbished 2-star hotel that offers comfortable deluxe rooms. Guests can also enjoy facilities, including an on-site coffee house, a shared lounge, and a 24-hour reception for added convenience.
Distance from Petra: 0.87 miles Phone: +962 7 9705 1116
Bedouin Pink EcoHouse:
Bedouin Pink EcoHouse is a vibrant, eco-friendly guesthouse equipped with just 3 cozy rooms. Guests can enjoy shared facilities such as a kitchen, picnic area, and a tranquil terrace. A traditional Bedouin-style dinner can also be arranged upon request.
Distance from Petra: 5.59 miles Phone: +962 7 7756 0186