13 best things to do in Petra
Ranked by how often travelers include them in real TravBuddy trips — with costs, timings and tips.
The top things to do in Petra include Revisit Petra or Explore Lesser-Known Trails, The Treasury, AlDayr, plus 10 more. Each stop below is rated by real travelers and drawn from actual TravBuddy itineraries, so you see what people genuinely spend time on — not a generic list.
1.Revisit Petra or Explore Lesser-Known Trails
4.8Ancient City45,436 reviews~1,00010:30 AMSpend your final morning revisiting any parts of Petra that particularly captivated you, or venture onto lesser-known trails for a more solitary historical experience away from the main crowds.
Tip: Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water. Consider hiring a local guide for deeper insights.
2.The Treasury
4.8Landmark12,606 reviews~20011:00 AMWalk through the Siq to witness the iconic Treasury (Al-Khazneh) emerge dramatically from the canyon. This breathtaking facade is one of Petra's most famous and awe-inspiring sights.
Tip: Visit in the late afternoon for optimal lighting and fewer crowds. Be prepared for a walk through the Siq to reach it.
3.AlDayr
4.9Landmark3,850 reviews~20012:00 PMEmbark on the memorable hike to Al-Dayr, 'The Monastery', Petra's second-most famous monument. The rewarding journey leads to a monumental facade with stunning views.
Tip: Wear layers as temperatures can change, and take breaks along the ascent. The view from the top is worth the effort.
4.Great Temple
4.6Ancient Ruin476 reviews~20012:00 PMVisit the Great Temple, a grand complex that reveals the sophisticated urban planning and monumental architecture of the Nabataeans. Its scale and remaining decorative elements speak to the civilization's artistic prowess.
Tip: Take your time to explore the various levels and intricate details of the temple.
5.Qasr al-Bint - Temple of Dushara
4.6Ancient Ruin449 reviews~50012:00 PMVisit the Qasr al-Bint, one of the few freestanding structures in Petra. This well-preserved temple provides insight into Nabataean religious practices.
Tip: Observe the remaining stucco and decorative elements that hint at its original grandeur.
6.Royal Tombs
4.8Ancient Ruins269 reviews~20011:00 AMExplore the majestic Royal Tombs, including the Urn Tomb, Silk Tomb, Corinthian Tomb, and Palace Tomb. These monumental facades showcase diverse Nabataean architectural styles and artistic influences.
Tip: The view from the Royal Tombs is excellent for panoramic photos of Petra.
7.Petra Visitor Center Museum
4.6Museum858 reviews~20011:00 AMVisit the Petra Museum, located near the entrance to the archaeological site. This modern museum provides a comprehensive overview of Petra's history, archaeology, and the artistry of its inhabitants through various exhibits.
Tip: This museum provides valuable insight into the daily lives and artistic practices of the Nabataeans.
8.Local Souvenir Shopping
3.9Shopping385 reviews~5004:30 PMSpend some time browsing the local shops around Wadi Musa for authentic souvenirs such as handcrafted jewelry, sand art, or traditional textiles.
Tip: Haggle respectfully for the best prices and look for genuine handmade items.
9.High Place of Sacrifice Trail
4.7Hiking Trail71 reviews~20012:00 PMEmbark on an adventurous hike to the High Place of Sacrifice. This trail offers breathtaking panoramic views of the entire Petra site, including the Treasury, Royal Tombs, and the ancient city.
Tip: This is a challenging uphill hike; wear appropriate footwear and bring water. The views at the top are worth the effort.
10.Little Petra (Siq al-Barid)
4.6Ancient Site4,532 reviews~20004:00 PMVisit Little Petra, also known as Siq al-Barid, a smaller yet significant archaeological site near Petra. It's believed to have been a Nabataean caravanserai and a suburb of Petra, offering a glimpse into daily life.
Tip: It's less crowded than main Petra and offers a different perspective on Nabataean rock-cut architecture.
11.The Siq
4.8Canyon1,923 reviews~20004:30 PMEmbark on an unforgettable journey through the Siq, the narrow, winding canyon that serves as the main entrance to Petra. This dramatic natural gorge, with towering cliffs, offers a breathtaking introduction to the ancient city.
Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes as the path can be uneven. Allow ample time for photos.
12.Souk Wadi Musa
4.6Market91 reviews~5009:00 AMBefore departing, explore Souk Wadi Musa, the local market. Find traditional crafts, spices, and souvenirs to remember your historical journey through Petra.
Tip: Practice your bargaining skills for the best deals.
13.Bedouin Tea & Storytelling
4.6Cultural Experience74 reviews~2006:00 PMExperience traditional Bedouin hospitality with a cup of sweet tea, often prepared over an open fire. Many local Bedouins offer this unique cultural exchange, sharing stories of their heritage.
Tip: Engage respectfully with your hosts; it's a chance to learn about their way of life. This can often be found near the site exit or through local guides.
Things to do in Petra: quick questions
What are the top things to do in Petra?+
Top experiences in Petra include Revisit Petra or Explore Lesser-Known Trails, The Treasury, AlDayr, Great Temple.
What are some offbeat places to visit in Petra?+
Beyond the usual spots, travellers in Petra also visit Qasr al-Bint - Temple of Dushara.
Where should you eat in Petra?+
Popular places to eat in Petra include Al Wadi Restaurant, My Mom's Recipe Restaurant.
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Plan my Petra tripRanked from 13 places that appear across real TravBuddy trips to Petra and traveler ratings. Entry fees and timings change — confirm ahead for closures.