Best 2 Days in Petra Itinerary: Self-Guided Two Days in Petra, Jordan
If you are looking for the best two days in Petra itinerary, you have come to the right place!
In this article, I will share with you how to spent 2 days in Petra, Jordan, on a self-guided tour that covered all the highlights as well as hidden gems of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Petra is a stunning ancient city in Jordan, with its incredible architecture built into the red rock, it oozes history. It had been on my bucket list for years – and I took full advantage of a multi-day pass to make sure I had the chance to explore everywhere.
Whether you are travelling solo, with friends or family, this two day Petra itinerary will help you make the most of your time and money in this magical and alluring place. Let’s get started!
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The Best 2 Days in Petra Itinerary
Not only is this one of the top places to see in Jordan, but it’s also one of the most iconic ancient landmarks in the world. If you’re looking to bring out the Indiana Jones or Lara Croft in you, you can’t go wrong with Petra.
If you think of Petra, you probably think of The Siq opening up to the Treasury – after all, that’s the famous shot that is used everywhere – however, in this Petra itinerary, I delve into much more than the archaeological site has to offer.
This ancient city is full of wonders and surprises that will leave you in awe! Although there’s an abundance of things to see in Petra in two days, this list below features the key highlights which are absolute must-dos!
What to See in Petra
- Walk Down the Siq
- Take the Trail Out to the Monastery
- Stand in Front of the Treasury at Sunrise
- Explore The Royal Tombs
- Wander Down the Street of Facades
- View the Treasury From Above
- Climb Up to the High Place of Sacrifice
Two Days in Petra – Know Before You Go
Are you ready to explore the ancient city of Petra?
Whether you’ve already booked your trip or you’re still dreaming of it, you’ll want to know some handy tips before you go such as how to get to Petra or what to bring when travelling to Petra.
Read on and get excited for your 2 days in Petra, Jordan adventure!
Getting to Petra
The closest airport to Petra, Jordan is Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) in Amman.
From there, you have multiple options to travel to Petra, including hiring a private car, taking a taxi, or utilizing public transportation such as buses or shared taxis.
Getting to Petra From Amman
To travel to Petra from Amman, the distance is approximately 235 kilometres (146 miles). This journey takes around 3 hours by road and you can travel by hiring a private car, taking a taxi, or using public transportation such as buses or shared taxis.
Read Also: How to Get from Amman to Petra – 5 Options
Getting From Wadi Musa to Petra
Wadi Musa is the nearest town to Petra. This is the town I stayed in during my Petra trip.
It’s located approximately 1.5 kilometres (0.9 miles) away. It takes about 20-30 minutes to walk or a short taxi ride to reach the entrance of Petra from Wadi Musa. Shuttle services are also available for transportation between the two locations.
Can You See Petra in One Day?
Yes, it is possible to spend just one day in Petra. However, I do recommend allocating more time to fully explore the site.
On a Petra one-day itinerary, you can cover the main highlights like the Treasury, the Monastery, and the Siq, but it may not allow for an in-depth exploration of all the areas within Petra.
Best Organised Petra, Jordan Tours
If you’re planning on visiting Petra, Jordan but want someone else to do the organization for you, then you might want to consider a tour of Petra with transportation included.
If you’ve only got 2 days in Jordan, an organized tour might be the best way to see a lot in a short space of time Here are my top recommendations for organized tours.
Where to Stay In Petra
There are plenty of options for places to stay. Because of the early starts, it’s more practical to stay at one of the resorts just outside the archaeological park entrance. However, these do come at a premium.
You can find more affordable options in the nearby town of Wadi Musa. Here are my top two picks on where to stay during your Petra two days itinerary.
Boutique Accommodation – Movenpick Resort Petra
This first-class resort is situated right at the entrance of the Petra archaeological park. It offers a luxurious experience with a touch of oriental charm, featuring Middle Eastern fabrics and textures.
Budget Accommodation – Rocky Mountain Hotel
Located in Wadi Musa, this hotel offers budget-friendly accommodation near the entrance of Petra, providing a convenient stay for travellers on a budget.
Is It Safe to Visit Petra?
If you’re concerned about safety during your vacation in Petra, Jordan, rest assured, Jordan is generally considered safe for tourists.
The most prevalent issues are being scammed by taxi drivers – find out from staff at your accommodation for the typical price of a journey, and before you get into a taxi check the fare they state aligns with the price your accommodation suggested.
I also recommended dressing slightly more conservatively, especially as a female, as Jordan is a Muslim country. Although there are no strict rules on dress, when you travel to Petra, Jordan it’s worth being respectful to their culture.
Read Next: What to Wear in Petra, Jordan
Tickets for 2 Days in Petra
During my trip to Jordan, I had planned for a 2 day Petra visit as well as the Petra at Night experience.
You have the option to purchase passes for 1, 2, or 3 days to enter Petra. Remember to bring your passport as your name will be printed on the ticket, which is checked at the entrance. Tickets can be purchased in advance, at the gate, or as part of an organized tour with an official guide.
Another option is the Jordan Pass, including a visa and attractions bundle, which can be obtained before entering Jordan from neighbouring destinations like Tel Aviv or Cairo.
I highly recommend dedicating 2 days to visit Petra, Jordan. This gives you plenty of time to appreciate the sights, relax, and explore the surrounding hiking trails.
Read Also: The Best Jordan 10 Day Itinerary
The Best 2 Days in Petra, Jordan
If you’re wondering how to visit Petra, efficiently in two days, this section tells you how.
I’ve listed all of these great places to visit in Petra in a logical order, so they form a route you can follow to make the most out of your time there.
Petra Itinerary – Day 1
Start your Petra two day itinerary early and be at the gate before sunrise. Walk down the Siq crowd-free and stand in front of the iconic Treasury.
From here continue past the Street of Facades, the Amphitheatre, and onto the Royal Tombs. Climb up to one of the lookout points to view the Treasury from above.
Then, take the trail out to Petras’s second most recognised landmark – the Monastery before hiking back out of the archaeological park.
Refresh yourself in the late afternoon and get ready to head back into Petra Archeological Park to experience Petra by Night.
Petra Visitors Center
You’ll start the day here. If you haven’t purchased your ticket in advance, you can conveniently buy it at the Petra Visitor Centre. This building also serves as Petra Tourist Office – here’s where you can also book an official Petra Guide, the Petra at Night experience or find out from the staff what to do in Petra.
This building houses a small but informative museum and offers decent WiFi. However, the eateries and souvenir shops surrounding the Visitor Centre are often overpriced and of mediocre quality, so I advise bypassing these unless necessary.
Additionally, there is a useful luggage storage facility available here where you can securely store larger items like suitcases or backpacks for the entire day.
The Gateway – Bab Al Siq
Bab Al Siq serves as the impressive entrance to Petra and acts as the gateway to the Siq, the main trail leading into the archaeological park. In Arabic, the term “Bab” means “gateway,” symbolizing the significance of Bab Al Siq as the entrance to Petra.
As you begin your walk from the park entrance to the Siq, you’ll come across various smaller temples and monuments. You’ll see some enormous square rock structures known as Djinn blocks.
Another notable sight is the Obelisk tomb, featuring a temple topped with four pyramids.
The Siq
The Siq, the gateway into Petra, is the second most iconic landmark. The remnants of a large gatehouse and arch can be seen at the entrance.
This natural rock formation stretches over 90 meters in height, with sheer walls along its 1.2-kilometre length. As you navigate the Siq, you may feel slight disappointment with every turn, expecting to catch a glimpse of the Treasury. However, the anticipation is rewarded when the breathtaking view of the Treasury finally emerges.
This iconic sight is considered one of the most beautiful places in Petra, making the journey through the Siq truly memorable.
The Treasury (Al Khaznah)
You’ll feel like you’ve seen The Treasury before as you finally approach this majestic facade. It’s one of Petra’s most iconic sights, carved from red sandstone with amazing details, columns and statues.
It’s worth getting up early to visit Petra and enjoy The Treasury with fewer crowds. I arrived before the masses of crowds, there were just some photographers, vendors and camels. Although I’m not the biggest fan of early starts, it’s worth it to get to experience this! Later on, it gets very busy.
You can’t enter The Treasury, but it has three chambers inside and maybe a hidden tomb below. No one knows its true purpose.
The Street of Facades
The only way to go to The Street of Facades is to the right and along the bigger opening, unless you turn around and exit the Siq or ascend one of the lookout points and cliff-top hikes (I’ll explain more about lookout sites later).
These are reportedly burial grounds and are well titled given the quantity of carvings on the rock face.
The Theatre
You can’t miss the enormous theatre carved into the side of the cliff on your left-hand side. It is not possible to enter and climb over it like the other old theatres in Jordan like those at Jerash or the ancient theatre in Amman.
This theatre may have held a maximum of 4,000 spectators sitting. Just picture this space’s acoustics.
You can access The High Place of Sacrifice by using the path that runs directly to the right of the theatre.
Read Next: The Best Things to Do in Amman in One Day
The Royal Tombs
- Urn Tomb – Look up as you are standing in the collonaded courtyard outside this temple. You’ll notice three hollows that lead to burial rooms around halfway up. While the main building is accessible, the chambers are not. This tomb derives its name from the ‘Urn’ at the top; up close, it can be difficult to make out the shape, but from a distance, it is easy to see.
- Silk Tomb – The Silk Tomb is close to the Urn Tomb. The sandstone of this tomb has the most stunning swirls of red, orange, purple, and yellow colour. This is also how the Tomb got its name.
- Corinthian Tomb – The Corinthian Tomb was once a gorgeous younger sister of The Treasury. Unfortunately, erosion over the years has reduced it to a mere ghost of its former splendour. After worshipers had been cleansed in one of the four basins outside of the temple, they would enter one of the four halls inside, which were utilized for various rites.
- Palace Tomb – The Palace Tomb is the last of the four Royal Tombs. It’s clear why it’s been given this name given the large five-story facade and plethora of columns. This is the largest Royal Tomb. It’s around 50 meters in both width and height. It even had its own mini dam and water reservoir! The building is impressive with four gates each leading to a burial room, 12 ornate columns on the bottom tier, and another 18 pillars above, which are all stunning features.
- The Sextius Florentinus Tomb – This tomb is located farther north and away from the string of four Royal Tombs. It is named after Sextius Florentinus, who in 129 AD served as the administrator of the Arab state. It has a similar appearance to the Corinthian Tomb in that it has been severely eroded, yet you can still make out columns with triangular decorations on top and Latin inscriptions.
The Treasury Lookouts – For FREE!
If you want a stunning photo of Petra’s Treasury, I recommend climbing up the cliff and snap it from above. Don’t let the camel sellers in front of the Treasury tell you otherwise. They will try to charge you for the view. You can do it yourself for FREE!
Just follow the Al-Khubtha Trail behind The Sextiux Florentinus. It’s a relatively steep climb with lots of steps, but it’s easy to follow – you won’t get lost. The Petra trail leads to a cosy tent cafe where you can enjoy some mint tea and gaze at the amazing sight below.
The Lion Triclinium
Head back down from the viewing point and away from the Royal Tombs. You’re going to start making your way out to the Monastery before the crowds get too big.
The Lion Triclinium is located on a slope and requires a little bit of a detour on the way up to the Monastery. It is a modest tomb with a single entry faced by two lion carvings that have a very worn appearance.
The Monastery (Ad Deir)
If you love adventure, you’ll adore the Monastery! It’s a bit off the beaten track, but trust me, it’s worth the climb and effort of getting there.
You’ll follow 730 ancient steps through a scenic valley until you reach a stunning plateau. There, you’ll see the biggest and most impressive Petra temple. It’s a masterpiece of rock-cut architecture, with elegant columns and a vivid blue sky backdrop.
You can peek inside, but there’s not much to see. Just some benches, an altar, and some crosses on the wall – that’s why they call it the ‘Monastery’.
Spend some time around the Monastery, there are a few cafes and eateries here. Then as the peak of the crowds is beginning to arrive, take the same trail back.
Because of today’s early start and the that you’re coming back to Petra in the evening, I recommend taking a leisurely walk back out stopping off to enjoy the view or explore some of the smaller ruins en route.
Petra by Night
Imagine seeing The Treasury in Petra glowing with candles and music! One of the best things to do in Petra on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday nights is to visit when Petra opens after dark.
You’ll follow a path of 1500 lanterns through The Siq and arrive at in front of the majestic facade of the Treasury. Mats have been laid out, where you can sit and be entertained by traditional music. Then, watch as The Treasury lights up with different colours. It’s a magical and fun way to see Petra!
Remember, you’ll need a special ticket for this night’s show – it’s not included in the day ticket. I advise booking Petra by Night in advance, but you might also be able to purchase a ticket on the day from the Petra Visitor Centre.
Petra Itinerary – Day 2
The second of your two days in Petra trip starts with a hike up to the High Place of Sacrifice. Take the winding word stairs up for one of the best panoramic views of the archaeological park.
Take the trail down the back of the valley, and visit some of the lesser-known buildings, including The Garden Triclinium and Tomb of The Roman Soldier.
The trail will eventually lead you out to the Collanaded Street, which you walked along yesterday on the way to the Monastery. Spend the remainder of the afternoon exploring the selection of ruins around here before heading back out of Petra Park.
The High Place of Sacrifice
If you love a challenge and a stunning view, don’t miss the High Place of Sacrifice! Follow the ancient steps behind the Theatre and climb to the top. You’ll see two obelisks and an altar carved from the rock. Imagine the rituals that happened here!
There are several hiking trails in Petra. This one leads you to a peaceful spot with amazing views of Petra and Wadi Farasa. Not many tourists come here, so you can enjoy the beauty of the desert pretty much to yourself.
The Lion Fountain
As you leave the High Place of Sacrifice, descend the other side of the cliff, away from the main park. On your way down, you’ll go past the Lion Fountain sculpted in the rock. It’s amazing how you can still recognize the lion’s shape despite the erosion.
The Garden Triclinium
As you explore the Wadi Farasa Valley, you’ll discover some amazing temples that most tourists miss. This path takes you to some hidden gems of Petra’s ruins. The first one is the Garden Triclinium.
This temple was not for burials but for water rituals. Check out the water tank in front of it! However, I wouldn’t be drinking or touching the water in there!
Tomb of The Roman Soldier
Not far from the Garden Triclinium, you’ll find the Tomb of the Roman Soldier. It gets its name from the three statues of warriors in the niches. The place is full of ancient fragments of temples and tombs. They say this tomb was once part of a huge and lost exit temple complex.
From the Tomb of the Roman Soldier, you’ll loop back around and probably come out somewhere near Collonaded Street. The path is a little ambiguous here, but I did end up finding a small dried-up river bed which I followed back down to the main area.
Although you’re unlikely to get that lost – it is a little unnerving – especially as the desert in the distance is so vast. There’s next to no one on these trails, just the odd shepherd and tourist. I do suggest having some form of the offline map here just for your peace of mind.
The Colonnaded Street
If you love old cities, you’ll adore Petra’s Colonnaded Street with its stones and pillars. The Nabateans made it first, but the Romans widened it to 6 metres later.
It was like a mall, a market and a hangout spot all in one. Don’t miss the stairs on the left that lead to the plaza. That was the core of the city back then.
The Nymphaeum
You’ll see the Nymphaeum as soon as you enter the Collonaded Street. It was once a stunning public fountain covered with lots of decoration. Even though it’s not as well-preserved as the one in Jerash Ruins just north of Amman, you can still admire its beauty.
And don’t miss the ancient juniper tree next to it! It’s been there for 450 years!
Related Article: Visiting Jerash Ruins, Jordan
The Great Temple
The Great Temple is a stunning landmark here with its fallen pillars, flowery sculptures, steps and decayed walls. You can wander around and admire everything on this huge site. It’s the biggest ruin in Petra’s archaeological park.
Look for the hexagonal tiles in the yard, the small theatre and the amazing carvings all over the place.
The Byzantine Church
Don’t be fooled by its modest exterior, this Church is amazing inside!
Look down and admire the stunning mosaics that cover the floor edges. They are so intricate; you can see patterns, food, animals, sea creatures, the seasons and deities.
The Blue Chapel
The Blue Chapel is located only a little bit higher on the slope than the Byzantine Church. Even if it’s a modest ruin, the rock columns do have a gorgeous blue colour.
The Temple of Qasr al-Bint
Just a few steps away from The Great Temple, you’ll find the amazing temple of Qasr al-Bint. It has a huge arch that towers over you, 23m high. This temple features a large hall with walls and seats and rooms on the sides.
Visiting Petra Tips
This two day Petra travel guide is the most efficient way to see the archaeological site. To get even more out of your visit to Petra, here are some useful travel tips.
- During your trip to Petra, start early and beat the crowds. Petra opens at 6 am and you’ll have the best views and photos without the hordes of tourists.
- Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water. Petra is huge and you’ll be walking a lot on uneven terrain. Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.
- You may hire a local guide to Petra or join a tour. They can also show you hidden gems and shortcuts that you might miss otherwise.
- Bargain with the vendors and don’t buy animal rides. Petra is full of souvenir stalls and camel drivers who will try to sell you their goods and services. Be polite but firm and don’t be afraid to haggle. Also, avoid supporting animal cruelty by not riding horses, donkeys or camels.
Petra Two Day Itinerary – FAQs
We’ve already covered a lot so far in this Petra 2 day itinerary. This next section has answers to any other questions you might have about your trip.
When Is the Best Time to Go to Petra?
The best time to visit Petra is during the spring months of March-May and the autumn months of September-November. During these months, the weather is cooler and more pleasant for touring out and exploring some of the iconic sites in and around Jordan.
What’s the Nearest Airport to Petra, Jordan?
The closest airport to Petra, Jordan is the Queen Alia International Airport (AMM), located in Amman, the capital city of Jordan. It is approximately 236 kilometres (147 miles) north of Petra.
Can You See Petra With Just One Day in Jordan?
Yes! It is possible to visit Petra in one day from certain locations in Jordan, such as Amman. However, I recommend allocating more time to fully experience and appreciate the beauty of this ancient city.
How Many Days In Petra?
To really enjoy Petra, I suggest staying for at least two days. This way, you can explore the different trails, see the monuments from different angles, and learn more about the culture and traditions of the people who built them.
Do I Need Two Days in Petra?
I highly recommended spending at least two days in Petra to fully appreciate its beauty and explore the site. This allows for a more leisurely pace, the opportunity to see more attractions, and the chance to experience Petra’s magical atmosphere.
Is Petra at Night Worth It?
Yes, experiencing Petra at night is definitely worth it. The Treasury is beautifully illuminated by thousands of candles, creating a magical and enchanting atmosphere.
The night tour offers a unique perspective of the site and allows you to experience its beauty in a different light!
Is It Worth Spending 3 Days in Petra?
Yes, spending three days in Petra is worth it, especially if you are interested in trying the lesser-trodden Petra hiking trails.
It allows you to not only visit the main attractions but also venture off the beaten path and enjoy a more immersive experience in the fascinating landscape.
How to Get To Petra, Jordan
To get to Petra, Jordan, you can fly into the Queen Alia International Airport in Amman. From there, you can hire a private car, take a taxi, or use public transportation to reach Petra. The journey from Amman to Petra takes around three hours by road.
If you’re staying in Wadi Rum desert, you can also organise transfers through your accommodation.
Can You Go In Petra?
Yes, visitors are allowed to enter and explore Petra. You can purchase an entry ticket at the Visitor Center, which grants you access to the archaeological site. Once inside, you can navigate the trails and paths to explore the ancient city and its iconic landmarks. You can not go inside the Treasury or the Monastery but you can enter lots of the smaller temples.
What Shoes to Wear in Petra, Jordan
I recommended wearing comfortable and sturdy shoes suitable for walking and hiking. Opt for closed-toe shoes with good traction, such as hiking boots or sneakers. The terrain in Petra can be uneven and rocky, so it’s important to have proper footwear for stability and comfort.
Is Jordan Expensive to Visit?
Jordan can vary in terms of cost depending on your travel style and preferences. Generally, it is considered moderately priced for tourists. Accommodation, transportation, and attractions are reasonably priced, while dining and shopping can range from affordable to upscale
What Can I Do in 3 Days in Jordan?
With three days in Jordan, you can explore the highlights of the country. Start in Amman, visit the Roman Theater and Citadel, and then head to Petra for a day of exploring the ancient city. End with a visit to Wadi Rum or the Dead Sea for relaxation and floating in its unique waters.
How’s Your Petra Two Day Itinerary Shaping Up?
So, are you ready for your two days in Petra itinerary?
Petra had been on my bucket list for years, and it didn’t disappoint. It truly is worthy of a spot on the list of Seven Ancient Wonders of the World.
Although I could have found enough stuff to do for a week here (there are SOOO many hiking trails!) with 2 days in Petra, Jordan, you’ll get a decent insight into the archaeological park beyond the main highlights.
This two day Petra itinerary gives you enough time to see everything at a comfortable pace with enough time to stop and take everything in. You’re going to love it!
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