17 Fun Things to Do in Petra, Jordan | 2024 (with Photos)

Are you planning on visiting Petra, Jordan, a city with a world heritage site with breathtaking ancient ruins? If yes, awesome. 

Petra is among the new seven wonders and that provides a wide range of enjoyable activities to make your trip absolutely memorable.

There are a variety of things to do in Petra, such as touring the famous Treasury and Monastery, walking through the narrow gorge, and enjoying the hospitality of Bedouins.

The Mövenpick Resort Petra is the ideal option for an opulent stay. Pack your bags and get ready for a vacation to Petra that will be full of adventures.

Table of Contents

1. Exploring Petra: Wadi Musa

2. Look for Traces of Ancient Grandeur in the Siq

3. Al Khazneh or The Treasury

4. Street of Facades

5. Hike Through The Mountains

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1. Exploring Petra: Wadi Musa

Wadi Musa, which is in the center of Jordan, serves as the entrance to Petra, a famous UNESCO World Heritage site, and is a main Petra site.

Wadi Musa is a lively village with a rich history, regional markets, and cultural activities that offers a variety of things to do in Petra.

Wadi Musa is the ideal starting point for discovering Petra's treasures, with access to both hiking through gorgeous gorges and the Treasury and Monastery's ancient remains.

Embark on an extraordinary adventure through Petra's stunning scenery and historical wonders by submerging yourself in Wadi Musa's alluring allure.

2. Look for Traces of Ancient Grandeur in the Siq

The Siq, the main entrance to the historic Nabataean city of Petra, is a captivating passageway that opens to an era of vast antiquity.

This dark, narrow canyon is filled with amazing rock formations, alluring hues, and intriguing engravings that reveal Petra's long past.

The excitement grows as you proceed through the narrow gorge of the Siq main gate until you arrive at Al Khazneh (the Treasury), Petra's most ornate ruin and a beautiful work of art carved into the sandstone cliffs.

Get ready to be astounded by the remnants of ancient splendor that the Siq, a captivating passageway into Petra's legendary past, has in store for you.

3. Al Khazneh or The Treasury

Al Khazneh, usually referred to as the Treasury, is one of Petra's most recognizable and breathtaking sights.

Any list of things to do in Petra must include a visit to this spot. This magnificent building, which was carved into the cliffs of rose-colored sandstone, stands tall as a tribute to the Nabataean civilization's prowess in architecture.

Al Khazneh, which was previously ruled by a Nabataean king, is thought to have been a palace tomb or a shrine. In the first century AD, Petra was prolific after the Treasury was built.

The ornate façade and incredible views of this ancient wonder will fascinate you as you walk through the small Siq and catch your first glimpse of it.

4. Street of Facades

In Petra, Jordan, there is a compelling avenue called the Street of Facades that is surrounded by tall, majestic tombs.

With its massive facades cut into the sandstone cliffs, this ancient street serves as one of the fascinating things to do in Petra. It provides a glimpse into the architectural wonders of the Nabataean civilization.

Awe-inspiring craftsmanship and Petra's rich history are brought to life for visitors as they stroll along this historic road.

5. Hike Through The Mountains

One of the must-do activities in Petra, Jordan, is mountain hiking, which is an exhilarating trip.

Visitors can set out on a journey of exploration and discovery with the use of a network of hiking trails and rock-cut stairs that travel across Petra's spectacular water channels.

The main trail, often referred to as the Al Khubtha Trail, goes to a beautiful vista that looks down on the Treasury and provides breathtaking panoramic views of this ancient marvel.

For outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike, trekking over the difficult terrain, and taking in the natural splendor is one of the things to do in Petra.

6. Visit the Monastery

For huge fans of history who want to learn more about the glories of this ancient city, a trip to the Petra Monastery is unforgettable experience in Jordan.

The Monastery, also known as Ad Deir or Al Deir, is among the most popular attractions in Petra and is the second-most frequented site after the famous Al Khazneh Treasury.

It is thought that this enormous rock-cut edifice, which is situated high in Petra's mountains, once served as the main entrance to a Nabataean tomb or a ceremonial hall.

The Monastery eventually underwent conversion into a church during the Byzantine era, enhancing its historical relevance and charm.

7. Wadi Farasa Trail

For those who have visited Petra, the Wadi Farasa Trail has proven unforgettable. This walk offers a distinctive and lovely hike that starts in the Street of Facades and is one of the best things to do in Petra.

Visitors are treated with incredible views of the surrounding area after beginning the forty-five-minute hike to the High Place of Sacrifice. Get an early start before the weather becomes too hot.

The Trail offers a chance to experience Petra's untamed beauty up close while also discovering secret treasures.

8. The Royal Tombs

If you're interested in learning more about this ancient wonder, you should definitely visit the Royal Tombs in Petra, near Wadi Musa.

The Royal Tombs, one of the top things to do in Petra, are made up of four different tombs: The Palace Tomb, the Urn Tomb, the Silk Tomb, and the Corinthian Tomb. The Urn Tomb is the most striking of the Royal Tombs.

The elaborate façade and exquisite interior walls in these magnificent rock-cut tombs demonstrate the Nabataeans' mastery of architecture.

Exploring the Royal Tombs gives visitors to Petra a unique opportunity to experience Petra's regal history while learning about the traditions and beliefs of the royal tombs and ancient civilization.

9. Visit Petra by Night

A unique and alluring experience, seeing Petra at night offers a new perspective on this historic World Heritage site.

One of the best things to do in Petra at night is to stroll down the illuminated Siq, which leads to the beautiful Treasury, and take in the ambiance.

Remember to try different local dishes, visit the Petra Church by night, and stop at the oldest bar in the world for a drink. It's a chance to see Petra's splendor in a brand-new way.

10. High Place of Sacrifice

A spectacular location in Petra, the High Place of Sacrifice provides breathtaking views of the lost city of ancient Petra.

Visiting this Nabatean sacrifice altar, which is perched slightly uphill, atop Jebel Madhbah, is among the best things to do in Petra.

As they take in the expansive views of the surrounding countryside, visitors can be astounded by the several floors, sacrifice trail, and complex drain systems. These were meant to channel the blood from animal sacrifices from the High Place.

Aside from being physically demanding, ascending to the High Place of Sacrifice is also a journey through time that offers a glimpse into the Nabatean people's ancient religious customs and Petra's breathtaking natural splendor.

11. Check into a Hammam

Taking a traditional Turkish bath, or hammam, is one of the interesting things to do in Petra asides from visiting where Indiana Jones shot some movie scenes.

A trip to a hammam in Wadi Musa can be a soothing experience for the body and the mind after a day of seeing historic sites like the Byzantine Church or the Sandstone Rock.

A typical hammam consists of a series of cleansing and unwinding rituals that have been used for centuries in the Middle East.

These treatments leave you feeling renewed and invigorated. It's a fantastic chance to experience the local way of life while also taking some time for yourself when you visit Petra.

12. Obelisk Tomb

The Obelisk Tomb is located near Wadi Musa on the way to the Siq pass. This burial complex, which was carved into the rock face during the first century BCE, is only a two-minute drive from the Cave Bar.

The Tomb has four pillars in the shape of pyramids that add to its distinctive appearance.

For history buffs and those searching for off-the-beaten-path experiences in Petra, the Obelisk Tomb is a must-visit.

It provides an insight into the ancient Nabatean burial practices and architecture. Don't pass up the chance to find this undiscovered treasure while you're in Petra.

13. The Colonnaded Street and Ancient City Ruins

Don't miss the chance to wander along Colonnaded Street, a Roman-built road that formerly served as a busy thoroughfare in this old city, as you visit the ancient city of Petra.

This magnificent street runs through Petra's center and is dotted with historic ruin sites, including the remains of columns, buildings, and other structures that once decorated this vibrant city. So, one of the best things to do in Petra is to walk along this street.

You can almost hear the echoes of Petra's rich past as you walk along Colonnaded Street, giving you a glimpse into this ancient civilization's daily life.

14. Petra Churches and the Temple of the Winged Lions

It is essential to see the Petra Churches and the Temple of the Winged Lions when you are in Petra.

The impressive Nabataean shrine structure known as the Temple of the Winged Lions is positioned on the crest of the Wadi Musa, overlooking the "Great Temple."

With its elaborate carvings and grandeur, it is a masterpiece of architecture.

In addition, Petra is home to a number of historic churches, including Blue Chapel, the Byzantine Church of Petra, and Ridge Church

These churches illustrate the long history of Christianity in the area dating back to the first century BCE.

15. Petra Great Temple

When in Petra, you absolutely must explore the Great Temple. This magnificent Nabataean temple complex is an outstanding architectural achievement that displays the engineering and creative prowess of the prehistoric civilization.

The Petra Great Temple provides a singular window into the rich historical and cultural heritage of the area.

It is situated adjacent to the Qasr al Bint, a well-preserved Nabataean temple, and further out is the spectacular Wadi Rum.

For those who enjoy history and want to fully experience Petra's beauties, it is a must-see.

16. Jebel Al-Habees Monuments

One of the fun things to do in Petra is to see the Jebel Al-Habees Monuments.

These antiquated structures are tucked away in the rough hillsides that surround Petra and provide breathtaking panoramas of the surroundings.

The carved facades, tombs, and other architectural components found at the Jebel Al-Habees Monuments are examples of the Nabataean civilization's expert craftsmanship.

For tourists looking to learn more about the history and culture of this ancient city, exploring these lesser-known yet incredible Petra sites is a fascinating and daring experience.

17. Al Khubtha Mountain

Any traveler exploring Petra must go to Al Khubtha Mountain. This spectacular peak, which is only a short drive from Little Petra or Siq al-Barid, provides breathtaking, all-encompassing views of the region.

You'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the ancient city of Petra and the surrounding settlement of Wadi Musa as you climb its rocky landscape.

It's the ideal location to take stunning pictures and take in the breathtaking natural splendor of this ancient masterpiece. Don't pass up the chance to include this Mountain on your list of Petra things to do.

FAQs About Things to Do in Petra, Jordan

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about exploring Petra, the "Rose City" of Jordan.

What can people do in Petra?

In Petra, people can explore ancient ruins, visit the dead sea, hike through narrow canyons, and see the Roman ruins and the frescoes of the city's ancient painted house. Moreover, you can visit the Dana Nature Reserve and enjoy luxury accommodations at Mövenpick Resort, Petra.

How much time do you need in Petra?

To fully appreciate the beauty and history of Petra, at least 2-3 days are recommended. The city of Petra is rich in historic sites, cultural significance, and gorgeous views. So, it is better to spend a couple of nights in Petra than to take a day trip to the city.

Do you need 2 days in Petra?

Yes, it is recommended to spend at least two days in Petra. This way, you get to experience the wonders of Petra by night, as well as explore the ancient ruins by day. You will see that Petra by night is a wonderful place.

Is Petra worth visiting?

Absolutely, Petra is worth visiting. Petra was built by the Nabateans as their capital city in around 100 BCE. This city is a must-visit with its world heritage status, old ruins, unique landscapes, and cultural experiences, offering an unforgettable adventure for travelers.

Summing Up: 17 Things to Do in Petra for an Unforgettable Experience

As you can see, Petra boasts plenty of exciting activities and places to visit. Whether you love history or want to walk where Indiana Jones walked, Petra should be on your bucket list.

Don't pass up the opportunity to see the Southern Jordan ancient sites, hike through gorgeous landscapes in the Arabian Peninsula, and enjoy the Bedouin people's friendliness.

Travel to Petra right away to make lifelong memories that won't soon fade. Stay at Mövenpick Resort Petra for a luxury vacation experience.

There are several things to do in Petra, so don't wait to start making travel arrangements.