Jordan
Petra
Petra is an ancient city in Jordan famed for its buildings carved directly into the rock. Once the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom, it lies about a three-hour drive across the desert from Amman.
Updated August 15, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors
- Gateway airport
- King Hussein International Airport
- Best season
- Mar–May, Oct–Dec
- Time zone
- Asia/Amman
- Sights covered
- 20 places
Sights worth seeing
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Heritage & monuments
Al Khazneh
The most spectacular sight in Petra, its two-story facade is carved directly into the rock face and lined with Corinthian columns. It's believed to be the tomb of a Nabataean king, and the legend behind its name, "the Treasury," is fascinating in its own right.
Nature
Mount Hor
Mount Hor is a mountain near Petra, said in the Old Testament to be the place where Aaron, brother of Moses, died. It holds deep significance as a sacred site.
Heritage & monuments
Ad Deir
A massive monument carved into the rock in the ancient city of Petra, in southern Jordan. Believed to date from around the 1st century, it's a highlight not to be missed when visiting Petra.
Heritage & monuments
Tomb of Aaron
This is said to be the burial site of Aaron, brother of Moses, marked by a small mosque-like shrine atop Mount Hor. At 1,350 meters above sea level, it's the highest point in the Petra area.
Nature
Siq
A narrow, shadowy gorge leading into Petra — follow its winding path for about 1.2 km and Al-Khazneh suddenly appears before you. The canyon scenery along the way is a highlight in itself.
Heritage & monuments
Beidha
A Neolithic archaeological site located north of Petra, Jordan, included within the Petra World Heritage area. It offers a close-up look at traces left by ancient inhabitants.
Nature
Jebel al-Madhbah
Jebel al-Madhbah is a mountain rising within the Petra ruins, its summit home to a large Nabataean ritual site centered on an altar. Climbing the mountain lets you examine traces of ancient Nabataean worship up close.
Heritage & monuments
Qasr al-Bint
A Nabataean-era temple in Petra, facing Wadi Musa and standing between the Great Temple and the Temple of the Winged Lions. Located near the Colonnaded Street and the Temenos Gate, it offers a well-preserved look at an ancient religious center.
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Getting around the city
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Guides by theme
Best value
Where to stay in Petra for the best value
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5-star & luxury
Where to stay for a luxury experience in Petra, Jordan
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Pool villas & resorts
Where to find pool villas and luxury resorts in Petra
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Family travel
Where to stay in Petra for a family trip
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Couples & honeymoon
Where to stay in Petra for couples and honeymooners
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Central & near stations
Where to stay in Petra for easy access to the archaeological site
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Best time to visit
When is the best time to visit Petra, Jordan?
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First-time guide
How to plan your first visit to Petra, Jordan
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Getting around
How to get around Petra and Wadi Musa
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