Petra lies about three hours south of Amman by road, which makes a day trip long but very doable when someone else does the driving. This bookable trip collects you in Amman, heads south on the Desert Highway and gives you time inside Petra, walking the Siq to the Treasury and on into the ancient city, plus a stop at Little Petra, the quieter Nabataean canyon just north of Wadi Musa. It is the best choice for travellers based in Amman for a few days, those on a tight itinerary, or anyone who would rather not drive in Jordan. Bear in mind that a day trip gives you only a few hours inside a site that deserves two days, so it suits a first taste rather than a deep visit. Check what the booking includes; Petra entry is usually extra unless you hold a Jordan Pass.
How it works: expect an early pickup in Amman and a return in the evening, with around six hours of driving in total. Bring your passport and your Jordan Pass if you have one.
What to expect: time inside Petra is usually enough for the Siq, the Treasury, the Street of Facades and the Royal Tombs, but not for the Monastery climb. Visitors who do not spend a night in Jordan pay a higher Petra entry rate, so this trip suits those already staying in Amman.
Making the most of it: wear comfortable shoes, carry water and snacks, and use the drive to rest. If you can stretch to an overnight in Wadi Musa, you will see far more of Petra and can add Petra by Night.
What to expect
The experience
A guided full-day trip by road from Amman to Petra and Little Petra and back.
Best time
Any day; an early start gives you the most time in the site.
How long
About twelve hours or more, door to door.
Tips
Check whether Petra entry is included, bring your passport and Jordan Pass, and wear good shoes.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers based in Amman with only one day for Petra.
- Families
- Long for young children; better for teens and adults.
- Couples
- A stress-free way to see Petra without driving.
- Pair with
- A night in Wadi Musa instead, if you can extend.
- Time needed
- One long day.
Good questions
How far is Petra from Amman?+
About three hours by road each way via the Desert Highway.
Is Petra entry included?+
Check the booking details; entry is often extra unless you hold a Jordan Pass.
Will I see the Monastery?+
Usually not; a day trip leaves time for the Siq, Treasury and city centre but rarely the Monastery climb.
Why do day-trippers pay more for Petra?+
Visitors who do not spend a night in Jordan pay a higher entry rate than those staying over.
Is a day trip worth it?+
Yes, if time is short, but an overnight in Wadi Musa lets you see far more.
