The 20 Best Things to Do in Petra

You're walking through a narrow, winding canyon, its towering walls blocking out the sun. The passage seems endless, but suddenly, the gorge opens up, and there it is - the Treasury, Petra's most famous monument, its intricate facade glowing pink in the morning light. Your jaw drops, and for a moment, you forget to breathe. This is Petra, and you've just begun your adventure.

Carved into rose-red cliffs by the ancient Nabataeans over 2,000 years ago, Petra is a place where history comes alive. This vast archaeological site, rediscovered in 1812, offers more than just a glimpse into the past - it's a full-blown journey through time. From monumental tombs to hidden caves, from Bedouin camps to Byzantine mosaics, Petra is a treasure trove of wonders waiting to be explored.

But Petra isn't just about ancient stones and silent ruins. It's a living, breathing place where Bedouin traditions thrive, where the scent of cardamom coffee wafts through the air, and where the stars shine brighter than you've ever seen. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a history buff, or simply in search of something truly extraordinary, Petra delivers. So lace up your hiking boots, grab your Indiana Jones hat (you know you want to), and let's dive into the 20 best things to do in this incredible lost city.

Wander Through the Siq

Your Petra adventure begins with a journey through the Siq, a narrow gorge that serves as the dramatic entrance to the ancient city. As you walk between its towering walls, rising over 650 feet high, you'll feel like you're traveling back in time. The natural beauty of the rock formations, with their swirling patterns and changing colors, is awe-inspiring. Keep an eye out for ancient carvings and the remains of terracotta pipes - evidence of the Nabataeans' engineering prowess.

The anticipation builds with each step, knowing that at the end of this 1.2-kilometer path, one of the world's most famous monuments awaits. The moment when the Treasury first comes into view, framed by the narrow opening of the Siq, is nothing short of magical. It's a scene that's graced countless travel magazines and movie screens, but nothing compares to seeing it with your own eyes.

Key Information:

• Location: Main entrance to Petra Archaeological Park
• Hours: Open daily from 6 AM to 6 PM (summer), 6 AM to 4 PM (winter)
• Admission: Included in Petra entrance ticket

Why Visit: The Siq offers a dramatic and unforgettable introduction to Petra, building anticipation for the wonders that lie ahead.

Insider Tip: Arrive early in the morning to experience the Siq in peaceful solitude and catch the first rays of sunlight illuminating the Treasury.

Marvel at the Treasury (Al-Khazneh)

As you emerge from the Siq, the Treasury bursts into view, its ornate facade glowing rose-pink in the sunlight. This 40-meter-high masterpiece of Nabataean architecture is Petra's crown jewel, and it's not hard to see why. Carved directly into the rock face, its columns, statues, and intricate details have withstood the test of time, leaving visitors awestruck for centuries.

Despite its name, the Treasury was likely a temple or royal tomb. Local legend says it once held pharaoh's treasure, leading to the bullet marks you can spot on the urn at the top - the work of Bedouin tribesmen hoping to break it open and release the riches within. While there's no gold to be found, the real treasure is the building itself, a testament to the skill and artistry of its ancient creators.

Key Information:

• Location: End of the Siq, Petra Archaeological Park
• Hours: Viewable during park opening hours
• Admission: Included in Petra entrance ticket

Why Visit: The Treasury is Petra's most iconic structure, offering a jaw-dropping first impression of the ancient city's grandeur.

Insider Tip: Return to the Treasury at night for the "Petra by Night" experience, when hundreds of candles illuminate the plaza, creating a magical atmosphere.

Climb to the Monastery (Ad-Deir)

If you're up for a challenge with a big payoff, the hike to the Monastery is a must-do. Larger than the Treasury but less ornately decorated, the Monastery sits atop a mountain, rewarding those who make the climb with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The trek involves climbing about 800 rock-cut steps, but don't let that deter you - the path is well-maintained, and there are plenty of spots to rest and enjoy the view along the way.

As you ascend, you'll pass by colorful stalls run by Bedouin vendors, offering refreshments and souvenirs. Take your time, chat with the locals, and pace yourself. When you finally reach the top and see the massive facade of the Monastery, you'll know it was worth every step. The best part? The crowds are often thinner up here than at the Treasury, giving you space to soak in the majesty of your surroundings.

Key Information:

• Location: Northwest area of Petra Archaeological Park
• Hours: Viewable during park opening hours
• Admission: Included in Petra entrance ticket

Why Visit: The Monastery offers a sense of achievement, incredible views, and a chance to explore one of Petra's largest monuments.

Insider Tip: Start your hike early in the morning to avoid the midday heat. Bring plenty of water and wear sturdy shoes.

Explore the Royal Tombs

Carved into the face of Jabal al-Khubtha, the Royal Tombs are a collection of elaborate burial chambers that showcase some of Petra's most impressive rock-cut architecture. As you approach, you'll be struck by the grand scale and intricate details of these facades. The most famous among them is the Urn Tomb, with its massive urn crowning the pediment, but each has its own unique character and charm.

Take time to explore inside the tombs, where you can see evidence of their later use as Byzantine churches. The interplay of light and shadow within these chambers creates an almost mystical atmosphere. As you wander from tomb to tomb, imagine the grand funeral processions that once wound their way through Petra's streets, honoring the Nabataean elite.

Key Information:

• Location: Eastern cliff face in the central part of Petra
• Hours: Viewable during park opening hours
• Admission: Included in Petra entrance ticket

Why Visit: The Royal Tombs offer a stunning example of Nabataean architecture and provide insight into ancient burial practices.

Insider Tip: Visit in the late afternoon when the setting sun bathes the tombs in a warm, golden light, perfect for photography.

Hike the Al-Khubtha Trail

For those seeking a different perspective on Petra, the Al-Khubtha Trail is your ticket to some of the most breathtaking views in the ancient city. This moderately challenging hike takes you up the cliffs opposite the Royal Tombs, leading to a viewpoint that offers a bird's-eye view of the Treasury from above. It's a view that relatively few visitors experience, making it feel like you've discovered a secret vantage point.

The trail isn't just about the destination, though. As you climb, you'll pass by lesser-known ruins and get a sense of the vast scale of Petra. The path can be a bit tricky to find at times, so keep an eye out for the red dots that mark the way. When you reach the top, find a comfortable spot to sit and take in the panorama. Watching the ant-like figures moving around the Treasury plaza far below really puts the grandeur of Petra into perspective.

Key Information:

• Location: Starts near the Royal Tombs
• Hours: Best attempted during cooler morning or late afternoon hours
• Admission: Included in Petra entrance ticket

Why Visit: The Al-Khubtha Trail offers unparalleled views of the Treasury and surrounding landscape that most visitors never see.

Insider Tip: Bring plenty of water and sun protection. The hike takes about 1.5-2 hours round trip, so plan accordingly.

Discover the Street of Facades

As you continue past the Treasury, you'll find yourself on the Street of Facades, a corridor lined with dozens of impressive tombs carved into the rockface. This area gives you a sense of what a Nabataean neighborhood might have looked like, with its rows of elaborately decorated building fronts. Each facade is unique, featuring different architectural styles and details that hint at the status and tastes of those buried within.

Take your time strolling down this ancient street. Notice how the tombs vary in size and complexity, from simple cave-like openings to grand, multi-story structures. Many of these tombs have been weathered by time, creating an evocative, almost melancholic atmosphere. It's a place that invites contemplation about the lives and deaths of the people who once called Petra home.

Key Information:

• Location: Just past the Treasury in the main city
• Hours: Viewable during park opening hours
• Admission: Included in Petra entrance ticket

Why Visit: The Street of Facades offers a glimpse into the "neighborhood" life of ancient Petra and showcases a variety of Nabataean tomb designs.

Insider Tip: Look for the small niches carved near some of the tombs. These were likely used for offerings to the deceased.

Visit the Petra Museum

Before or after exploring the ancient city, make time for a visit to the Petra Museum. This modern facility, opened in 2019, houses an impressive collection of artifacts that bring the history of Petra to life. From intricate Nabataean pottery to ancient scrolls and statues, the museum's exhibits provide crucial context for understanding the sites you'll see in the archaeological park.

One of the highlights is the museum's use of technology to enhance the visitor experience. Interactive displays and 3D models help you visualize how Petra looked in its heyday, while multimedia presentations delve into topics like Nabataean engineering and trade routes. Don't miss the section on Petra's rediscovery by Johann Ludwig Burckhardt in 1812 - it reads like a real-life adventure story.

Key Information:

• Location: Near the visitor center at the entrance to Petra Archaeological Park
• Hours: Open daily from 8 AM to 4 PM
• Admission: Included in Petra entrance ticket

Why Visit: The museum provides valuable historical context and houses artifacts that enhance your understanding of Petra's significance.

Insider Tip: Visit the museum early in your trip to Petra. The knowledge you gain will enrich your exploration of the archaeological site.

Ride a Donkey to the High Place of Sacrifice

For a taste of adventure and a glimpse into Petra's religious past, take a donkey ride up to the High Place of Sacrifice. This ancient Nabataean ritual site sits atop Jebel Madbah, offering panoramic views of the entire archaeological park. The journey itself is part of the experience, as your sure-footed mount navigates the steep, winding path up the mountain.

Once you reach the top, you'll find a large flat area with two 7-meter obelisks, thought to represent two of the most important Nabataean gods. Look for the altar and the drain where animal blood would have flowed during sacrificial ceremonies. The views from up here are spectacular, giving you a bird's-eye perspective of Petra's layout. On your way down, consider taking the alternative route through Wadi Farasa for a different set of ruins and landscapes.

Key Information:

• Location: Southeastern part of Petra Archaeological Park
• Hours: Donkey rides available during park opening hours
• Admission: Included in Petra entrance ticket; donkey ride is extra (negotiate price with guide)

Why Visit: The High Place of Sacrifice offers insight into Nabataean religious practices and provides stunning panoramic views of Petra.

Insider Tip: If you're not comfortable riding a donkey, you can hike up on foot. Start early to avoid the midday heat.

Wander Through Little Petra (Siq al-Barid)

Often overlooked by visitors rushing to see the main Petra site, Little Petra (Siq al-Barid) is a hidden gem that deserves your attention. Located just a few kilometers north of Petra proper, this smaller complex offers a more intimate and less crowded experience of Nabataean architecture and culture.

As you walk through the narrow siq, you'll come across facades, dining halls, and water conduits similar to those in the main site, but on a smaller scale. One of the highlights is a dining hall with remarkably well-preserved ceiling frescoes, a rare example of Nabataean painting. The peaceful atmosphere here allows for a more relaxed exploration, and you might even have some of the sites all to yourself. It's a perfect spot for those seeking a quieter, more contemplative experience of Petra's wonders.

Key Information:

• Location: 9 km north of Petra Archaeological Park
• Hours: Open daily from 6 AM to 4 PM
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Little Petra offers a more intimate experience of Nabataean architecture without the crowds of the main site.

Insider Tip: Consider visiting Little Petra in the late afternoon when the setting sun casts a warm glow on the rock facades.

Take a Cooking Class at Petra Kitchen

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After a day of exploring ancient wonders, why not treat your taste buds to some modern Jordanian flavors? Petra Kitchen offers a hands-on cooking class where you can learn to prepare traditional Jordanian dishes. Under the guidance of local chefs, you'll chop, mix, and sauté your way to a delicious meal, picking up culinary skills and cultural insights along the way.

The class typically includes preparing a full Jordanian menu, from appetizers like baba ganoush and tabbouleh to main dishes like maqluba (an "upside-down" dish of rice, vegetables, and meat) and desserts like knafeh. As you cook, your instructors will share stories about Jordanian food culture and daily life. The best part? At the end of the class, you get to enjoy the fruits of your labor in a communal dinner, sharing laughs and conversation with your fellow amateur chefs.

Key Information:

• Location: Tourism Street, Wadi Musa
• Hours: Classes typically start at 6:30 PM
• Price: Around 35 JOD per person

Why Visit: Petra Kitchen offers a delicious way to engage with local culture and learn skills you can take home with you.

Insider Tip: Let them know in advance if you have any dietary restrictions. They're usually happy to accommodate vegetarian or vegan preferences.

Enjoy Sunset at the Royal Tombs

As the day winds down, make your way to the Royal Tombs for a truly magical experience. The late afternoon sun bathes the rock facades in a warm, golden light, bringing out the rich hues of the sandstone and creating an ever-changing play of light and shadow. It's a photographer's dream and a moment of pure beauty for everyone else.

Find a comfortable spot to sit and watch as the colors shift and deepen with the setting sun. The Urn Tomb, with its graceful arches, is particularly stunning at this time of day. As the tourist crowds thin out, you might find yourself sharing this peaceful moment with only a few other appreciative onlookers and perhaps a local Bedouin or two

Experience Petra by Night

For a truly enchanting experience, join the Petra by Night tour. As darkness falls, the ancient city takes on a whole new character. The tour begins at the Petra Visitor Centre, where you'll walk through the Siq, guided only by candlelight. The flickering flames create dancing shadows on the rock walls, building anticipation with each step.

When you emerge from the Siq, you're greeted by a breathtaking sight: the Treasury plaza, illuminated by over 1,500 candles. Take a seat on the provided mats and listen as a local Bedouin plays haunting melodies on a traditional reed pipe. The guide will share stories of Petra's history and legends, their words echoing off the ancient stones. It's a serene, almost mystical experience that offers a completely different perspective on Petra's wonders.

Key Information:

• Location: Starts at Petra Visitor Centre
• Hours: Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday nights at 8:30 PM
• Price: 17 JOD per person

Why Visit: Petra by Night offers a unique, atmospheric way to experience the ancient city's beauty.

Insider Tip: Bring a small flashlight for the walk back, and wear warm layers - desert nights can be chilly.

Hike to Jabal Haroun (Aaron's Tomb)

For the adventurous and fit traveler, the hike to Jabal Haroun (Mount Aaron) offers a challenging but rewarding experience. This mountain, the highest in the Petra area, is believed by many to be the burial place of Moses' brother Aaron. The hike takes you through varied terrain, from ancient Nabataean wine presses to steep mountain paths, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape along the way.

At the summit, you'll find a small white mosque marking the supposed location of Aaron's tomb. Whether or not you believe in the religious significance, the panoramic views from the top are truly spectacular. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Wadi Araba and even into Israel. It's a powerful place for reflection, offering a sense of the vast desert landscape that shaped the ancient Nabataean culture.

Key Information:

• Location: Southwest of Petra city center
• Hours: Start early in the morning to avoid midday heat
• Admission: Included in Petra ticket; local guide recommended

Why Visit: The hike to Jabal Haroun offers incredible views and a chance to experience the wider Petra landscape.

Insider Tip: This is a strenuous hike that takes most of a day. Bring plenty of water, sun protection, and snacks.

Explore the Byzantine Church

While Petra is primarily known for its Nabataean heritage, the Byzantine Church offers a glimpse into the city's later history. Built in the 5th century AD, long after Petra's heyday, this church is a testament to the enduring importance of the site. As you explore the ruins, you'll see beautiful mosaic floors featuring intricate geometric patterns and depictions of local wildlife.

The church's layout is still clearly visible, with columns marking the nave and side aisles. Look for the remains of the baptismal font and the priest's quarters. The mosaics are particularly well-preserved, protected from the elements by a modern shelter. These colorful tiles offer insight into the artistic styles and religious symbolism of the Byzantine period, adding another layer to Petra's rich historical tapestry.

Key Information:

• Location: Petra city center, near Colonnaded Street
• Hours: Viewable during park opening hours
• Admission: Included in Petra entrance ticket

Why Visit: The Byzantine Church showcases a different period of Petra's history and features beautiful mosaic floors.

Insider Tip: Look for the personifications of the seasons in the northern mosaic panel - a unique blend of Christian and pagan imagery.

Trek Through Wadi Muthil

For those seeking a more adventurous way to enter or exit Petra, the Wadi Muthil trek offers a thrilling alternative to the main entrance. This ancient Nabataean route winds through a narrow canyon, passing by water channels, dams, and inscriptions left by the ingenious engineers who created Petra's water management system.

The trek can be challenging, with some scrambling required and potential water obstacles depending on the season. But the reward is a unique perspective on Petra's landscape and infrastructure. You'll emerge near the Royal Tombs, having experienced a side of Petra that many visitors never see. It's a physical and visual adventure that gives you a real sense of the terrain the Nabataeans navigated and engineered.

Key Information:

• Location: Northern entrance to Petra
• Hours: Best attempted in the morning
• Admission: Included in Petra ticket; local guide strongly recommended

Why Visit: Wadi Muthil offers an adventurous trek and insights into Nabataean water management.

Insider Tip: This route can be dangerous after rains due to flash flood risk. Always check conditions and go with a knowledgeable guide.

Visit the Colonnaded Street

Once the main thoroughfare of ancient Petra, the Colonnaded Street still impresses with its grand scale and architectural remnants. As you walk along this wide, paved road, imagine it in its heyday - lined with shops, filled with the chatter of merchants and citizens, maybe even the occasional camel caravan passing through.

Today, you can still see the remains of the colonnade that gave the street its name, as well as the foundations of various buildings that once lined it. At one end stands the impressive triple-arched Temenos Gate, which marked the entrance to the sacred precinct of the Qasr al-Bint temple. Take time to explore the nooks and crannies along the street - you might discover hidden carvings or bits of ancient life amid the ruins.

Key Information:

• Location: Central Petra, leading to Qasr al-Bint
• Hours: Viewable during park opening hours
• Admission: Included in Petra entrance ticket

Why Visit: The Colonnaded Street offers a glimpse of Petra as a living, bustling city in its prime.

Insider Tip: Look for the remains of a public fountain near the middle of the street - a testament to Petra's sophisticated water system.

Admire the Qasr al-Bint

Standing at the end of the Colonnaded Street, Qasr al-Bint is one of the few free-standing structures in Petra. This grand temple, dedicated to the main Nabataean god Dushara, was once the religious heart of the city. Despite centuries of earthquakes and weathering, its massive walls still stand impressively tall, giving you a sense of the temple's original grandeur.

As you explore, notice the mixture of Nabataean and Greco-Roman architectural elements, a testament to Petra's position at the crossroads of ancient civilizations. Look for traces of the original plaster and paint that once covered the stone, and imagine how colorful and ornate the temple must have been in its prime. The open space around Qasr al-Bint also offers a great opportunity to relax and soak in the atmosphere of ancient Petra.

Key Information:

• Location: End of Colonnaded Street, Petra city center
• Hours: Viewable during park opening hours
• Admission: Included in Petra entrance ticket

Why Visit: Qasr al-Bint is one of Petra's most important religious structures and one of the few free-standing buildings.

Insider Tip: Visit in the late afternoon when the setting sun highlights the texture of the stone and casts long shadows, perfect for photography.

Take a Bedouin Jeep Tour

For a thrilling way to explore the wider Petra area, hop in a Jeep with a local Bedouin guide. These tours typically take you beyond the main archaeological site to areas like Little Petra, the desert landscapes around Petra, or even as far as Wadi Rum. It's a chance to see a different side of the region, one of rugged natural beauty and traditional Bedouin culture.

As you bump along desert tracks, your guide will share stories of Bedouin life and point out features in the landscape. You might stop at a Bedouin camp for tea, visit hidden viewpoints, or see ancient rock carvings off the typical tourist path. It's an exhilarating way to cover more ground and gain a broader perspective on the area's geography and culture.

Key Information:

• Location: Tours typically depart from Wadi Musa
• Hours: Various times available, often in the afternoon
• Price: Varies by tour length and destination

Why Visit: A Jeep tour offers a thrilling way to explore the wider Petra area and experience Bedouin culture.

Insider Tip: Bring a scarf to protect against dust, and don't be shy about asking your guide to stop for photo opportunities.

Relax at the Petra Turkish Bath

After days of hiking and exploring, treat yourself to some relaxation at the Petra Turkish Bath. This modern hammam offers a traditional bathing experience that's perfect for soothing tired muscles and washing away the desert dust. The process typically involves alternating between hot and cold rooms, a steam room session, and a thorough scrub and massage.

The hammam experience is not just about cleanliness, but also about social interaction and relaxation. Take your time, chat with other visitors if you like, and let the warmth and steam work their magic. It's a great way to unwind and reflect on your Petra adventures while engaging in a practice that has been part of Middle Eastern culture for centuries.

Key Information:

• Location: Tourism Street, Wadi Musa
• Hours: Usually open from early afternoon until late evening
• Price: Varies by services chosen

Why Visit: The Turkish Bath offers a relaxing, traditional experience and a great way to unwind after exploring Petra.

Insider Tip: Bring your own swimsuit and flip-flops. For a more authentic experience, visit in the evening when locals often frequent the baths.

Shop at the Petra Handicraft Center

Before you leave Petra, take some time to visit the Petra Handicraft Center. This initiative, supported by the Petra National Trust, showcases and sells traditional handicrafts made by local artisans, particularly women from the surrounding communities. It's a great place to find unique, high-quality souvenirs that directly support the local economy.

You'll find a wide range of items, from intricate sand bottles and handwoven textiles to jewelry made with local stones and traditional Bedouin silverwork. Each piece tells a story of local traditions and skills passed down through generations. The center also often has artisans working on-site, giving you a chance to see traditional crafts being made and even try your hand at some techniques.

Key Information:

• Location: Near the Petra Visitor Centre
• Hours: Open daily during park hours
• Price: Free to enter, prices vary for handicrafts

Why Visit: The Handicraft Center offers unique, locally-made souvenirs and supports the local community.

Insider Tip: Look for items made with rose-red stone from Petra - they make for especially meaningful souvenirs.

Structuring Your Petra Trip for a 3-Day Itinerary

Now that we've explored the best things to do in Petra, let's put it all together into a suggested 3-day itinerary. This plan balances the must-see sites with some off-the-beaten-path experiences, giving you a comprehensive Petra adventure.

Day 1: Classic Petra

• Morning: Start early with a walk through the Siq to the Treasury. Explore the Street of Facades and the Royal Tombs.
• Lunch: Enjoy a packed lunch or eat at the Basin Restaurant inside the archaeological park.
• Afternoon: Visit the Colonnaded Street and Qasr al-Bint. If you're up for it, hike up to the High Place of Sacrifice.
• Evening: Take the Petra by Night tour for a magical experience.

Day 2: Beyond the Main Trail

• Morning: Tackle the challenging but rewarding hike to the Monastery. Enjoy the view and explore the summit area.
• Lunch: Pack a picnic to enjoy near the Monastery, or head back to the basin area for a restaurant meal.
• Afternoon: Explore the Byzantine Church and take the Al-Khubtha Trail for a view of the Treasury from above.
• Evening: Relax with a traditional hammam experience at the Petra Turkish Bath.

Day 3: Petra's Surroundings

• Morning: Take a trip to Little Petra (Siq al-Barid) for a more intimate archaeological experience.
• Lunch: Return to Wadi Musa for lunch and a visit to the Petra Museum.
• Afternoon: Join a Bedouin Jeep tour to explore the wider Petra area.
• Evening: Cap off your trip with a cooking class at Petra Kitchen, learning to make traditional Jordanian dishes.

Remember, this itinerary can be adjusted based on your interests and energy levels. Petra has so much to offer that even with three full days, you'll likely leave wanting to come back for more. Don't try to rush through the sites - take time to soak in the atmosphere, chat with locals, and marvel at the incredible achievements of the ancient Nabataeans.

Whether you're scrambling up to the Monastery, sipping tea with Bedouins, or standing in awe before the Treasury, Petra offers experiences that will stay with you long after you've returned home. So lace up your hiking boots, charge your camera, and prepare for an adventure in one of the world's most extraordinary ancient cities. Who knows? You might just discover your own hidden wonder in the rose-red city of Petra.