A wonder of the ancient world and a must-do for anyone interested in Middle Eastern history, Petra is a hotspot for anyone enjoying a Jordan holiday. An entire city built into the towering stone by the Nabataeans, one of the most powerful pre-Christian and pre-Islamic tribes in the Middle east, this site is centuries old and has stood the test of time in the harsh desert conditions.

Not only is it a historical monument, but it also has religious and spiritual significance too. Given its location and lengths Jordanians have gone to preserve this ancient site, here are a few things you need to know when planning a visit to Petra.

When is the best time to visit?

In order to avoid big tourist crowds, it’s best to arrive at Petra relatively early. With a lot of walking around too, it’s a good idea to avoid the midday heat and get the bigger walks done in the morning or late afternoon.

It’s important to check the weather before you go and avoid rainy days because the valley can get flooded relatively easily, making it inaccessible.

Which sites do you have to see?

A basic itinerary in Petra would include The Siq, The Treasury, The Monastery, High Place of Sacrifice and the Royal Tombs. However, given the walking times and the heat, some visitors might not be able to visit them all in one day, which is why a multi-day pass is very useful.

How long does it take to walk to the highlights?

Remember to pack some comfortable trainers or walking shoes; there’s a fair bit of walking around to do! From the entrance it takes about 30 minutes to reach the Treasury. Getting to the Monastery takes a little longer at about 1.5 hours. The walk involves a little bit of scrambling around over rock cut steps, so wear your comfiest clothes too.

How much does it cost?

A day ticket into Petra costs 50 JD (£57/$70). Those who want to see as much as possible can opt for a multi-day ticket for slightly more (two-day ticket costs 55 JD and a three-day ticket costs 60 JD). It’s a big site, so seeing it over a few days is a great way to make the most of it.

There is also the opportunity to experience Petra at night, and at just 17 JD, it’s a cheaper and potentially spookier option. And if you’re visiting as a family, kids under 12 get to go in for free!

What should women wear?

Female Western visitors are advised to dress modestly in and around Jordan, so opt for loose trousers, long skirts, tops that cover the shoulders and take a scarf along in case you need to cover your head.