Petra, Jordan
The Rose City
One of the Wonders of the World and the capital of the Nabataean people.
Places to Stay
Budget: (<$100/night)
Hotel: Twilight Hotel Petra
Airbnb: Hikaya Studios Room
Mid-Range: ($100-$200/night)
Hotel: Petra Marriott Hotel (pictured)
Luxury: ($200+/night)
Hotel: Movenpick Resort Petra
Things to do
Visit Petra at night (pictured on the left): The Siq is the 1.2km narrow gorge that leads visitors to the Treasury and for few days a week the walkway to the Treasury is illuminated with over 1,500 candles. Petra by Night is open Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday for 17 JD (~23 USD) and children under 10 are permitted free of charge. You can purchase tickets at the visitor center, from local guides, or your hotel. Our taxi driver even offered to buy them in advance for us.
Visit the Monastery: Also known as Ad Deir, is one of the largest monuments in Petra measuring 47m wide and over 48m high. The space was used for meetings of religious associations and was later re-used as a Christian chapel. You can walk or take a donkey to reach the Monastery. You can reach the Monastery by passing the Treasury and walking maybe ~45mins. You can also reach the Monastery by taking a donkey.
See the Treasury from the top: Also known as Al Khazna, the Treasury is the main attraction when you visit Petra. Almost 40 meters high and intricately decorated with Corinthian capitals, friezes, figures, and more. The Treasury is crowned by a funeral urn, which according to local legend conceals a pharaoh’s treasure. The exact date of construction is unknown, but it was estimated to be constructed in the 1st century BC. The Treasure is also the location of the Holy Grail in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade! There are several locals that will offer to take you to a viewing point to see the Treasury from higher up. It’s a bit of a hike, but my dad and I made it and the views were amazing. You can also buy some tea while you enjoy the view.
Places to Eat
Al Matal Bedouin Tent (pictured): The Petra Marriott hotel has several restaurants, but dining at the Al Matal Bedouin Tent was my favorite experience. The location has a wonderful view of the sunset over the mountains and the food here is amazing! You get a feel of the unique Bedouin culture and you can try authentic Bedouin drinks, Jordanian cuisine (Zarb, Mandi), and live music. Closed from November until April.
