Tucked away in the heart of Jordan, Petra is a breathtaking archaeological site that has captivated travelers from around the world. Known as the Rose City or the Rock-City, this ancient wonder is one of the most visited sites on earth, and for good reason. In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey to uncover the secrets of Petra, exploring its history, safety, and practical information to help you plan an unforgettable trip.
A Brief History of Petra
Petra’s story begins around 6th century BC, when the Nabataean population, a group of nomadic traders from Arabian origin, settled in the site to find a safe place to live and store their goods. The site’s strategic location, hidden between mountains and easily defensible from within, made it quickly become a thriving center, attracting numerous neighboring populations as well as those from nearby Europe (including Romans before and Byzantines later).
Over time, Petra passed through the hands of various rulers, including the Crusaders and the sultanate of Curd Saladine in 1189. For centuries, the site lay forgotten, until it was rediscovered again by travelers in the early 19th century.
Getting to Petra: Where to Find and How to Get There
Petra is easily accessible from Amman, the capital city, and other major cities. You can reach the site on foot from Petra’s settlement center, which takes less than 5 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a bus or minibus from Amman or Aqaba.
Here are some options for getting to Petra:
- Bus: Depart from Amman’s Abdali station every day at 6:30 am with modern buses and air conditioning from Jett.
- Minibus: Take the minibus from Aqaba, which takes you to Petra at a cost of 5.00 JOD (approximately €6.30).
- Taxi: One-way trips from Amman take around €63, while from Aqaba the cost is approximately €38.10.
Safety Information
Due to the current crisis between Israel and Palestinian territories, the security situation is fluid. We recommend consulting the Travel Safe website from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before booking a trip to neighboring countries.
Operating Hours and Prices
In winter months (from December to February), operating hours are from 6:00 am to 4:00 pm. In summer months (June to August), they are from 6:00 am to 8:00 pm.
Here are some important details about ticket prices:
- Daily Ticket: 50 JOD per person (approximately €63)
- Extended Tickets: Two days at 55 JOD and three days at 60 JOD
- Discounts: Students, Jordanians, and people with a valid residence certificate have a discount of 1 JOD (approximately €1.30)
Best Time to Visit
The best time to avoid crowds is early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Tours, Guided Visits, and Online Tickets
To get the most out of your visit, consider spending at least 5 hours exploring the site. Here are some tips for visiting Petra:
- Plan Your Day: Spend an entire day in Petra, departing in the morning and leaving in the late afternoon.
- Comfortable Shoes: Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking on sand and rocks.
- Sunscreen and Sunglasses: Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and water (especially during hot summer months).
- Featuring 120 new destinations, this best-selling inspirational travel guide reveals 500 celebrated...
- Completely revised and updated for its 10th anniversary
- Compiled from the favorite trips of National Geographic's legendary travel writers, this fully...
Brief Historical Notes, Curiosities, and Practical Information
Petra’s history is complex and fascinating. Here are some interesting facts:
- Nabataean Population: Petra was founded around 6th century BC by the Nabataean population, a group of nomadic traders from Arabian origin.
- Architectural Influences: The site features monuments with different architectural influences, giving life to a unique world that alone tells the story of time’s passage and historical epochs.
Flights
Low-cost flights from €53.00 to Aqaba (100 km from Petra) – view the offers
Accommodation
Hotels and B&Bs starting at €20.00 per room – look for the offers
Cultural Events and Festivals in Petra
Petra is a living museum, with many cultural events and festivals taking place throughout the year. Some of the most popular events include:
- Al-Khutm Festival: A three-day festival that celebrates the Nabataean culture and traditions.
- Petra International Film Festival: A two-week festival that showcases films from around the world.
Conclusion
Petra is a breathtaking archaeological site that has captivated travelers from around the world. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and unique landscapes, it’s no wonder that Petra is one of the most visited sites on earth.
Whether you’re planning a day trip or an extended stay, we hope this guide has provided you with the information and insights needed to plan an unforgettable adventure in Petra.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best time to visit Petra?
A: The best time to avoid crowds is early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Q: How much does it cost to visit Petra?
A: The daily ticket costs 50 JOD per person (approximately €63), but you can extend it for two days at 55 JOD and three days at 60 JOD, respectively.
Q: Can I take a bus or minibus from Amman or Aqaba to Petra?
A: Yes, you can take a bus or minibus from Amman or Aqaba to Petra.
Q: Is it safe to visit Petra?
A: Due to the current crisis between Israel and Palestinian territories, the security situation is fluid. We recommend consulting the Travel Safe website from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before booking a trip to neighboring countries.
Q: Can I explore Petra on my own or should I take a guided tour?
A: Consider spending at least 5 hours exploring the site, but feel free to take a guided tour if you prefer.
Q: Are there any discounts available for students or Jordanians?
A: Yes, students, Jordanians, and people with a valid residence certificate have a discount of 1 JOD (approximately €1.30).
Q: Can I book online tickets in advance?
A: Yes, it’s recommended to book your tickets in advance to avoid waiting in line.
Q: Are there any additional costs or fees associated with visiting Petra?
A: No additional costs or fees are associated with visiting Petra.
