10 luxury hotels in Petra, Jordan

The 20 Best Hotels in Petra, Jordan: Where Ancient Wonder Meets Modern Opulence

Introduction

Imagine the first rays of dawn painting the Treasury's rose-red facade in liquid gold, a sight witnessed by kings and caravans for millennia. Your journey to Petra is a pilgrimage into the heart of history, but where you rest your head transforms a visit into an indelible legend. The luxury hotels in Petra, Jordan, are not mere accommodations; they are custodians of the landscape, offering sanctuaries carved from the same dramatic stone or perched with breathtaking command over the timeless valleys. Choosing the right hotel here is about aligning your soul with the spirit of the Nabateans—whether through Bedouin-inspired luxury, seamless modern comfort steps from the Siq, or remote, star-drenched silence. This guide curates the twenty definitive properties that elevate the Petra experience. Our selection was forged under the desert sun, weighing criteria of unparalleled location, architectural harmony with the environment, depth of authentic Jordanian hospitality, caliber of amenities, and the sheer magic of the guest experience. From the iconic Movenpick to hidden gems like the Old Village, each hotel promises a unique key to unlocking the secrets of the lost city. We have traversed the paths, slept in the suites, and sampled the cuisine to bring you a compass for luxury in one of the world's most awe-inspiring destinations. Prepare to be immersed.

How to Choose Your Perfect Hotel

Petra's hotel landscape is defined by proximity and perspective. The most coveted location is Wadi Musa, the modern town at Petra's gates. Staying here, especially along the Tourism Street corridor, means you can walk to the Visitor Center in minutes, allowing for early entry and easy returns for midday respite. Hotels here, like the Petra Marriott or Movenpick, offer convenience and vibrant energy. For a more immersive, tranquil experience, consider properties in the surrounding hills of Taybeh or on the road to Little Petra. These, such as the breathtaking Hayat Zaman, trade immediate access for staggering panoramic views, profound silence, and a deeper connection to the desert expanse. Your travel style dictates the choice: families and first-time visitors often prioritize the walkable ease of Wadi Musa. Romantics and serenity-seekers will find the hilltop retreats worth the short drive. Budgets range from comfortable luxury ($$) to ultra-exclusive, all-inclusive escapes ($$$$). Consider if you value a pool after a day of hiking, a world-class spa, or a terrace that frames the Milky Way. Your perfect hotel in Petra is the one that frames your adventure in the perfect light.

The Top 20 Hotels in Petra, Jordan

1. Movenpick Resort Petra

Your first steps into the Movenpick are a sensory plunge into a citrus-scented oasis. The grand lobby, with its soaring ceilings and traditional mashrabiya woodwork, whispers of Arabian nights, a stark and luxurious contrast to the rugged landscape just beyond its gates. Located directly opposite the Petra Visitor Centre, its location is unbeatable for archaeological zeal. Rooms are havens of warm woods and rich textiles, with balconies offering quiet street views. The signature amenities are legendary: a year-round heated outdoor pool, a subterranean spa for weary muscles, and multiple dining venues, including the famous Al Saraya Rooftop Bar for sunset cocktails. It's perfect for discerning travelers who demand five-star facilities and ultimate convenience. Price: $$$$.

2. Petra Marriott Hotel

The Petra Marriott stands as a monument of modern comfort carved into the hillside. The approach is dramatic, leading to a vast, elegant lobby with floor-to-ceiling windows that drink in the mountain vistas. Situated a brief, five-minute drive from the Petra entrance, it offers a slightly more serene base than the immediate gate bustle. Spacious rooms feature plush Marriott bedding and private balconies, many facing the stunning pool terrace. The outdoor infinity pool, seemingly merging with the rocky horizon, is its crowning glory, alongside a well-equipped fitness center and the excellent Hala Restaurant serving Levantine classics. Perfect for luxury brand loyalists and those who prize resort-style amenities with a view. Price: $$$$.

3. The Old Village Hotel & Resort

This is not just a hotel; it is a reimagined 19th-century village. Stone pathways wind between beautifully restored traditional houses, each a standalone suite with domed ceilings and antique furnishings. Located in the heart of Wadi Musa, it offers an authentic, village-like atmosphere while being a short walk to Petra's gate. The design aesthetic is pure heritage, with modern comforts seamlessly integrated. The resort boasts a beautiful central pool, a hammam-style spa, and a restaurant set in a former stable. Its unique, sprawling layout offers privacy and a sense of discovery. Perfect for culture enthusiasts and romantics seeking an authentically Jordanian architectural experience. Price: $$$$.

4. Petra Moon Hotel

True to its name, the Petra Moon Hotel is your lunar outpost for exploring the ancient city. Its sleek, contemporary facade gives way to a bright, minimalist lobby. The location is arguably the best of any—literally a one-minute stroll to the Visitor Centre. Rooms are functional yet comfortable, with clean lines and essential amenities; many have small balconies. The rooftop terrace, with its direct, open view of the surrounding mountains, is a spectacular spot for breakfast or an evening tea. It offers a fantastic, upscale boutique experience focused on location and efficient, friendly service. Perfect for serious explorers who want to maximize time inside Petra and value proximity above all. Price: $$-$$$.

5. Hayat Zaman Hotel & Resort

A journey along a desert road leads to this breathtaking sanctuary, a restored 19th-century Ottoman village. Hayat Zaman is an experience of timeless seclusion. The vibe is one of rustic-luxe romance, with stone cottages, arched doorways, and lantern-lit pathways. Perched on a hilltop near Little Petra, it offers majestic valley views but requires a 15-minute drive to the main site. Suites are individual dwellings, some with private gardens. The sprawling grounds hide multiple pools, a superb spa, and restaurants serving food from organic gardens. It's perfect for honeymooners, writers, and anyone seeking a remote, luxurious escape with profound peace. Price: $$$$.

6. Petra Palace Hotel

A longstanding favorite, the Petra Palace offers reliable, warm hospitality in a prime location just 300 meters from the Petra gate. The atmosphere is welcoming and bustling, with a grand, ornate lobby that speaks to its popularity with tour groups. Rooms are traditionally furnished and well-maintained, offering solid comfort. The hotel features a lovely indoor pool and sauna—a rare treat—a large restaurant, and a cozy Bedouin-style tent lounge for evening sheesha. Its strength is its consistent service, good value, and central location. Perfect for groups, budget-conscious travelers seeking full amenities, and those who enjoy a social, vibrant hotel environment. Price: $$.

7. La Maison Hotel Petra

La Maison lives up to its name, offering a chic, intimate, and personalized "house" experience. This boutique hotel in central Wadi Musa feels like a stylish urban retreat transplanted into the desert. The design is contemporary with subtle Middle Eastern accents—think clean lines, mood lighting, and artful decor. The rooftop is its masterpiece, featuring a small pool, lounge beds, and a bar with panoramic views, ideal for sunset. Rooms are compact but beautifully designed, with high-quality linens and modern bathrooms. The attentive staff provides a concierge-like service. Perfect for couples and design-savvy solo travelers seeking a trendy, intimate base. Price: $$$.

8. Crowne Plaza Resort Petra

A bastion of international luxury, the Crowne Plaza Resort commands a hilltop position with unforgettable vistas. The scale is impressive, with a vast, polished marble lobby and cascading outdoor terraces. Located a short drive from the Petra entrance, it offers shuttle service and a sense of secluded grandeur. Rooms are spacious and elegantly appointed, most with private balconies facing the dramatic scenery. The tiered outdoor pools are a major draw, alongside multiple restaurants, a lively bar, and extensive conference facilities. It's perfect for business travelers mixing work with wonder, families needing space, and lovers of big-resort amenities. Price: $$$$.

9. Petra Guest House Hotel

The only hotel located *inside* the archaeological park boundaries, the Petra Guest House is in a league of its own for location. The atmosphere is one of historic privilege, sitting just steps from the entrance to the Siq. The original building has simple, clean rooms, while the newer cave rooms offer a once-in-a-lifetime chance to sleep in an actual Nabatean-dwelling-turned-hotel. The famous Cave Bar, carved from rock, is a must-visit. Amenities are basic but the experience is unparalleled. Perfect for archaeology fanatics and photographers who want to be the first and last into the site each day. Price: $$$.

10. Seven Wonders Hotel

A modern, well-run hotel offering excellent value and genuine warmth. The Seven Wonders is centrally located on Tourism Street, a pleasant 10-minute walk downhill to Petra. The atmosphere is bright, friendly, and efficient. Rooms are contemporary, spotless, and feature comfortable beds. The rooftop terrace boasts a small pool, jacuzzi, and stunning, unobstructed views of the mountains—a fantastic spot to unwind. The included breakfast is generous. It strikes a superb balance between comfort, location, and price. Perfect for savvy travelers who want modern comforts, a great view, and more budget for guided tours and souvenirs. Price: $-$.

11. The Rocky Mountain Hotel

Perched high above Wadi Musa, the Rocky Mountain lives up to its name with staggering, 180-degree views of the Sharah Mountains. The vibe is authentic, family-run, and deeply connected to the land. The drive up is an adventure, rewarded with tranquility and vistas that rival any five-star lobby. Rooms are simple but adequate, with the real luxury being your private balcony overlooking the eternal landscape. The homemade Jordanian meals are legendary. It's perfect for adventurous spirits, budget travelers, and anyone who believes the best luxury is a front-row seat to nature's grandeur. Price: $.

12. Mövenpick Nabatean Castle Hotel

Do not confuse this with its sister property; the Nabatean Castle is a fortress of luxury on a grand scale. Modeled after a Crusader castle, its imposing silhouette dominates a hilltop a few kilometers from Petra. The interior is regal, with stone arches, grand staircases, and opulent decor. Rooms are vast, with traditional heavy furniture and large bathrooms. The sprawling complex includes multiple pools, tennis courts, and several dining options. It feels like a self-contained kingdom. Perfect for families wanting resort activities, history buffs enamored with the castle theme, and those seeking an all-encompassing holiday experience. Price: $$$$.

13. Petra Panorama Hotel

As the name promises, the Panorama delivers views. This modern hotel is situated on the main road, offering easy access and a quieter ambiance than the bustling town center. The design is straightforward and comfortable. The highlight is the multi-level terrace and restaurant, which provides a breathtaking, uninterrupted panorama of the Petra mountains, beautifully lit at night. Rooms are clean and functional, with many offering these same majestic views. The staff is exceptionally helpful. Perfect for travelers who want a peaceful stay with a million-dollar view, without the premium price tag of a hilltop resort. Price: $$.

14. Al Rashid Hotel

A stalwart of Petra hospitality, Al Rashid offers a genuinely warm, family-oriented welcome. Located just off Tourism Street, it's a quiet yet convenient five-minute drive to the gate. The atmosphere is homely and unpretentious. Rooms are recently renovated, featuring comfortable beds and modern bathrooms. The hotel is known for its superb restaurant, serving some of the best traditional Mansaf in the area. The rooftop provides lovely evening views. It's perfect for travelers seeking authentic local interaction, fantastic food, and comfortable, no-fuss accommodations with great value. Price: $.

15. Silk Road Hotel

Inspired by the ancient trade routes, the Silk Road Hotel is a boutique property with a strong sense of place. The decor incorporates textiles, artifacts, and maps, creating an atmosphere of scholarly adventure. Located in the town center, it's within walking distance of shops and restaurants. Rooms are uniquely decorated, each telling a part of the Silk Road story. The garden courtyard is a serene escape, and the hotel organizes unique cultural lectures and tours. It's perfect for intellectually curious travelers and those who appreciate a hotel with a narrative and a soul beyond mere comfort. Price: $$-$$$.

16. Taybet Zaman Hotel & Resort

The sister property to Hayat Zaman, Taybet Zaman is another restored Ottoman village offering a similarly magical, secluded experience but located closer to the main highway. The stone-built houses are scattered across a hillside, connected by picturesque paths. The vibe is rustic elegance and total peace. Each house-suite is uniquely decorated with antiques. Amenities include a beautiful pool, a spa, and restaurants sourcing from their farm. It's slightly more accessible than Hayat Zaman while maintaining the same enchanting, lost-in-time feeling. Perfect for those seeking the restored village experience with slightly easier road access. Price: $$$$.

17. Petra Gate Hotel

Focusing on modern minimalism and proximity, the Petra Gate Hotel is a sleek newcomer. Just 200 meters from the Visitor Centre, its design is a study in clean, calming aesthetics—white walls, light wood, and pops of color. The atmosphere is quiet and sophisticated. Rooms are compact but brilliantly designed, with smart storage and excellent showers. The rooftop features a small plunge pool and lounge area with direct views of the entrance area. It's perfect for design-conscious millennials and solo travelers who prioritize location, contemporary style, and a peaceful, tech-friendly environment. Price: $$-$$$.

18. Amra Palace Hotel

The Amra Palace offers a palatial experience on a modest budget. The lobby is grand, with a high dome and marble floors, creating an impressive first impression. Located on the main street, it's a short walk to Petra. Rooms are spacious and traditionally furnished, some with jacuzzi tubs. The hotel features a large indoor pool, a sauna, and a restaurant with nightly entertainment. It provides a taste of opulence and extensive facilities at a very competitive price point. Perfect for families and travelers who enjoy resort-style amenities like pools and entertainment without the luxury price tag. Price: $.

19. The Bedouin Garden Hotel

This charming, small hotel offers a garden oasis in the midst of Wadi Musa. The atmosphere is lush, relaxed, and personal, with flowering plants and shaded seating areas. Located a short drive from the gate, it provides a tranquil retreat after a dusty day of exploration. Rooms are simple but comfortable, with garden views. The real charm lies in the hospitality of the owners and the lovely garden where breakfast is served. It's perfect for nature lovers, backpackers upgrading their comfort, and travelers seeking a personal, peaceful connection with their hosts. Price: $.

20. Petra Nights Hotel

Completing our list is a hotel that captures the magical evening atmosphere of Petra. Petra Nights is a mid-range option with a focus on warmth and views. The location on a hillside offers a beautiful perspective, especially at dusk. The decor incorporates local stone and dark woods, creating a cozy, lodge-like feel. Rooms are comfortable and many have balconies. The hotel's restaurant is well-regarded for its mezze and grilled meats. It's perfect for travelers seeking a view-oriented stay with authentic local flavor, good food, and a friendly, unassuming ambiance. Price: $$.

Neighborhood Guide: Where to Stay

Wadi Musa (Tourism Street & Vicinity)

This is the bustling heart of modern Petra, a vibrant strip of hotels, restaurants, and shops that culminates at the Visitor Centre. The personality here is one of convenient energy. You are at the epicenter of the action, with the ability to walk to the site, pop back to your hotel for lunch, and find evening entertainment easily. It's ideal for first-time visitors, those without a car, and travelers who enjoy having amenities at their doorstep. Hotels here, like the Movenpick, Petra Moon, and Petra Palace, offer the ultimate in proximity.

The Hilltop Resorts (Taybeh & Little Petra Road)

For a complete contrast, ascend into the surrounding mountains. These areas offer serenity, breathtaking panoramic views, and a profound sense of escape. The personality is one of secluded luxury and connection to the raw landscape. You'll trade a walking commute for a short drive (often with free hotel shuttles), receiving in return unforgettable vistas, starry skies, and resort-style amenities. This is the domain of romantic getaways and reflective travelers. Properties like Hayat Zaman, Crowne Plaza Resort, and the Mövenpick Nabatean Castle define this category.

Central Wadi Musa & Side Valleys

Beyond the main Tourism Street, the town of Wadi Musa spreads into quieter residential valleys and side streets. Hotels here, like the Old Village or La Maison, offer a more local, village-like atmosphere. You'll experience a blend of convenience and calm, often within a 5-10 minute walk or a quick taxi ride to the gate. This area is perfect for those who want to avoid the main tourist thoroughfare but still desire easy access and a taste of everyday Jordanian life.

Best Hotels for Specific Experiences

Best for Romance: Hayat Zaman Hotel & Resort

Its secluded, restored-village setting, private stone cottages, lantern-lit pathways, and hilltop silence create an impossibly romantic atmosphere. Dining under the stars here is pure magic.

Best for Families: Crowne Plaza Resort Petra

With its multiple pools (including a children's pool), vast grounds, spacious family rooms, kid-friendly buffet, and reliable international standards, it keeps everyone happy and comfortable.

Best for Business Travelers: Movenpick Resort Petra

Combining prime location with extensive conference facilities, high-speed internet, multiple professional dining venues, and a business center, it seamlessly blends work with unparalleled site access.

Best Boutique Hotels: La Maison Hotel Petra

For chic, intimate design and personalized service in town, La Maison is unmatched. For a historic, sprawling boutique experience, The Old Village Hotel is a unique gem.

Best Value Luxury: Petra Moon Hotel

Offering an upscale boutique experience in the single best location for explorers, it delivers a premium, convenient stay without the premium resort price tag, maximizing your Petra time.

Dining & Amenities Spotlight

The luxury hotels in Petra, Jordan, transform necessity into artistry. Dining here is a journey through flavor. At the Movenpick, the Al Iwan restaurant presents lavish buffets of local and international cuisine, while its Al Saraya Rooftop Bar is the social pinnacle for sunset sheesha and cocktails. For an unforgettable culinary event, book a private Bedouin dinner under the stars arranged by Hayat Zaman or Taybet Zaman, featuring zarb (underground oven) cooking. The Cave Bar at the Petra Guest House remains an iconic, must-visit spot for a drink literally inside the rock. Spa amenities are designed for restoration after trekking the Siq. The Movenpick's spa offers traditional hammam rituals, while the hilltop resorts like the Marriott and Crowne Plaza feature massage treatments with views that soothe the soul as much as the hands soothe muscles. Unique services abound: from guided "back door" hikes into Petra arranged by your hotel concierge to stargazing sessions on private terraces. The pool at the Petra Marriott, an infinity edge vanishing into the mountains, is itself a destination. These amenities are not add-ons; they are integral chapters in your Petra narrative.

Booking Tips & Insider Secrets

To secure the best rates and rooms at the top luxury hotels in Petra, Jordan, timing is everything. Book at least 3-4 months in advance for peak seasons (March-May, September-November). For potential upgrades, consider booking directly through the hotel's website and politely inquiring at check-in if any complimentary upgrades are available, especially if celebrating a special occasion. The sweet spot for visiting is the shoulder seasons of late February/early March or late October/November—pleasant weather and fewer crowds. While major chains have loyalty programs, the real insider secret is to leverage local knowledge. Many smaller boutique hotels offer exclusive, price-inclusive guided tours or airport transfers if you book a suite. For the hilltop resorts, always confirm the schedule and cost of their shuttle service to Petra. Lastly, a well-timed email to the hotel manager before arrival expressing your excitement can work wonders for personalized attention.

Practical Information for Hotel Guests

Check-in at most hotels in Petra is around 2-3 PM, and check-out is 11 AM-12 PM, but luggage storage is readily available. Tipping (baksheesh) is a common practice; a tip of 1-2 JOD per day for housekeeping and 10% in restaurants (if service is not included) is appreciated. While English is widely spoken in hotels, learning a few Arabic phrases like "Shukran" (thank you) delights staff. Transportation from Amman is typically a 3-hour drive; pre-arrange a private transfer through your hotel for ease. Within Wadi Musa, taxis are inexpensive and plentiful, but agree on a price (usually 2-5 JOD) before getting in. Safety is high; Petra is a secure tourist destination, but standard precautions with valuables apply. The desert climate demands respect: drink ample water, and use the hotel's water refill stations. Finally, dress modestly when moving through town out of respect for local culture, though resort wear is fine within hotel grounds.

Sample 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: The Grand Arrival. Check into the Petra Guest House (for location) or Petra Moon Hotel. After settling, enter Petra in the late afternoon for the magical walk through the Siq to the Treasury, avoiding the midday heat and crowds. Enjoy a drink at the iconic Cave Bar. Dine at your hotel or a local Wadi Musa restaurant.

Day 2: Deep Exploration. Take full advantage of your proximity for an early start. Spend the day hiking to the Monastery, High Place of Sacrifice, and exploring the tombs. Return to your hotel for a late lunch and siesta. In the evening, transfer to a hilltop sanctuary like the Hayat Zaman or Crowne Plaza Resort. Dine at their panoramic restaurant, soaking in the starry silence you've earned.

Day 3: Luxury & Departure. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast with a view. Perhaps book a treatment at the hotel's spa or relax by the infinity pool, reflecting on your journey. If time allows, take a hotel-arranged tour to Little Petra before your onward travel. This itinerary blends ultimate access with luxurious retreat.

Conclusion

The twenty hotels curated here are more than places to sleep; they are the final, essential layer of the Petra experience. From the historic privilege of the Petra Guest House to the cinematic seclusion of Hayat Zaman, each property offers a unique lens through which to view this ancient wonder. They provide the cool towel after the dusty trail, the gourmet feast after a day of exploration, and the silent, star-filled balcony for contemplation. Choosing among the luxury hotels in Petra, Jordan, is about choosing the character of your adventure. Whether you prioritize footsteps-to-the-Siq convenience or hilltop majesty, boutique intimacy or full-service resort grandeur, your perfect base camp awaits. Let your hotel be the sanctuary that frames your discovery, turning a visit to the Rose-Red City into a story you will recount for a lifetime. The stones of Petra whisper; listen from your perfect perch.

FAQ - Top 20 Hotels in Petra, Jordan

What is the best area to stay in for first-time visitors to Petra?

For first-timers, staying in Wadi Musa along or near Tourism Street is highly recommended. This area puts you within easy walking distance of the Petra Visitor Centre, allowing for maximum flexibility to enter the site early, return for a break, and explore at your own pace. Hotels like the Movenpick Resort Petra and Petra Moon Hotel offer this prime, convenient location.

Are the hilltop resorts worth the distance from the Petra entrance?

Absolutely, if your priority is tranquility, breathtaking views, and resort-style amenities. While they require a 5-15 minute drive (often with scheduled shuttles), they offer a serene escape and a different perspective of the landscape. For a romantic or relaxing trip, the trade-off is more than worthwhile. Properties like the Crowne Plaza Resort Petra and Hayat Zaman are destinations in themselves.

What is the best time of year to visit Petra and book hotels?

The ideal times are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when daytime temperatures are mild and pleasant for hiking. These are peak seasons, so book hotels 3-4 months in advance. Winter (December to February) can be cold, especially at night, but offers fewer crowds. Summer (June to August) is extremely hot.

Is it possible to visit Petra on a tighter budget but still stay comfortably?

Yes. Petra offers excellent value in its mid-range and budget hotels, many of which still provide stunning views, warm hospitality, and good amenities like pools. Hotels like the Seven Wonders Hotel, Petra Panorama Hotel, and Al Rashid Hotel offer clean, comfortable accommodations and great service at a fraction of the cost of the luxury resorts.

Which hotel is closest to the actual entrance of Petra?

The Petra Guest House Hotel is uniquely situated literally at the entrance to the archaeological site, just steps from the Siq. For hotels just outside the gate, the Movenpick Resort Petra and Petra Moon Hotel are the closest, both within a one-minute walk to the Visitor Centre.

Do Petra hotels offer guided tours and transportation?

Virtually all hotels, from luxury to budget, can arrange licensed guides for tours of Petra, often at competitive rates. Most hilltop resorts offer free scheduled shuttle services to and from the Visitor Centre. Hotels can also arrange private drivers, airport transfers, and tours to other sites like Wadi Rum or the Dead Sea.

What should I pack for a stay at a luxury hotel in Petra?

Pack sturdy, comfortable walking shoes for Petra, smart-casual attire for hotel restaurants, a swimsuit for the pool, and layers for cool desert evenings. All luxury hotels provide essential toiletries, hairdryers, and adaptors (but bringing a universal adaptor is wise). Most importantly, bring a camera with ample memory to capture the beauty.