Petra — the Rose City carved into pink sandstone cliffs over 2,000 years ago by the Nabataean civilization — is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Located in southern Jordan, near the small town of Wadi Musa, Petra is the most visited and most photographed site in the entire Middle East. From the dramatic walk through the narrow Siq to the moment the Treasury (Al-Khazneh) reveals itself, every step here feels like cinema.
Best Time to Visit Petra
The most comfortable seasons are March–May (spring) and September–November (autumn) — daytime temperatures of 20–28°C, perfect for hiking. Summer (June–August) reaches 35–40°C — visit at sunrise or after 4 pm. Winter (December–February) is cool but quiet, with occasional rain.
Petra Opening Hours & Ticket Prices (2025)
- Opening hours: Summer 06:00–18:00, winter 06:00–16:00.
- 1-day ticket: 50 JOD if you are staying overnight in Jordan, 90 JOD as a day-tripper from outside Jordan.
- 2-day ticket: 55 JOD; 3-day ticket 60 JOD.
- Jordan Pass: from 70 JOD — covers your visa AND Petra entry plus 40+ other sites. Best value for tourists.
- Petra by Night (Mon, Wed, Thu evenings): 17 JOD extra — the Siq lit by 1,500 candles.
How Many Days Do You Need at Petra?
- 1 day covers the Treasury, the Street of Facades, the Royal Tombs, and the Monastery (if you start early).
- 2 days is ideal — adds the High Place of Sacrifice, Petra Museum and time at Little Petra.
- 3 days for serious photographers, hikers or those wanting Petra by Night without rushing.
Top Petra Sites You Must See
- The Siq — the 1.2-km narrow canyon entrance.
- Al-Khazneh (The Treasury) — the iconic façade made famous by Indiana Jones.
- The Street of Facades & Royal Tombs.
- The Roman Theatre — carved into the rock for 7,000 spectators.
- Ad Deir (The Monastery) — 800 steps up, even larger than the Treasury.
- The High Place of Sacrifice and the best panoramic viewpoints.
How to Reach Petra
A private transfer from Amman or directly from Queen Alia International Airport is by far the most comfortable option. Sedan from Amman starts at 95 JOD, from the airport 110 JOD. The drive is about 3 hours via the Desert Highway or 4–5 hours via the scenic King's Highway (Madaba, Mount Nebo, Karak Castle).