Tel Aviv to Petra: How to Travel

The three most common transportation modes to get to Petra from Tel Aviv are by bus, car, and plane.

By bus

Taking a bus from Tel Aviv to Petra is a popular and inexpensive option. To make the journey, you must first take a bus to Eilat, approximately 354 kilometers from Tel Aviv. Reputed bus companies like Egged operate regularly on this route. Travel duration is roughly five hours and will cost around USD 25 to USD 40. After reaching Eilat, you have to cross the border (usually at the Yitzhak Rabin Border Terminal) to enter Jordan, and then you can take a bus or a private taxi a short distance to nearby Aqaba. There is a regular bus service between Aqaba and Petra, separated by around 124 kilometers. While there are tourist-friendly bus companies like JETT, you can also opt for much cheaper local mini-buses to get to Petra. The journey time is approximately three hours and will cost anywhere between USD 30 to USD 40. Overall, the total cost for the bus journey from Tel Aviv to Petra is USD 55 to USD 80.

• Distance covered: 478 kilometers
• Duration: Around 8 hours

Pro tips:

• Check the bus schedules in advance and carefully plan your itinerary, considering the duration of travel and the frequency of bus service.
• Check the border crossing hours and plan your bus departure accordingly, ensuring you have enough time to complete immigration procedures.
• Make sure to have all the required documents, such as passports and visas, and be aware of any entry fees or regulations when crossing from Israel to Jordan.
• Exchange currency before the journey or ensure you have sufficient local currency for transportation and expenses in Jordan.

By car

Renting a car provides flexibility and convenience for travelers going to Petra from Tel Aviv, although you must check in advance if the rental company allows border crossings. If not, you may need to rent two vehicles. There are companies like Avis, Hertz, and Budget that offer car rental services in Israel at a cost of between USD 40 and USD 80 per day, depending on the rental agency and the type of vehicle. To reach Petra from Tel Aviv, you must first drive to Eilat, approximately 354 kilometers away. The journey will take four to five hours depending on the traffic and the chosen route. Once at Eilat, you will need to cross the border, usually at the Yitzhak Rabin Border Terminal, to enter Jordan. After crossing the border, a short drive will take you to Aqaba and Petra is another 124-kilometer drive from here, taking about two to three hours. Overall, the total cost for a Tel Aviv to Petra drive, including the rental, fuel, and other expenses, amounts to approximately USD 120 to USD 200 or more, depending on the duration of the rental and other factors.

• Distance covered: 478 kilometers
• Duration: Around 6 to 8 hours

Pro tips:

• Check the rental car policies regarding border crossings and international travel. Some rental companies allow you to take the car across the border, while others may require you to return the car at the border and arrange for a new rental car in the destination country.
• Make a route plan and follow it using GPS or a navigation app. Keep in mind that certain areas may have limited or no network coverage.
• Have all required paperwork, such as a valid driver's license, a rental car contract, and insurance documents.
• Check the fuel levels before leaving major cities or towns.

By flight

Although there are no direct flights between Tel Aviv and Petra, flying is still the quickest and most convenient option to travel between the two cities. You can fly from Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport to Aqaba’s King Hussein International Airport, the closest airport to Petra. The flight duration is usually one to two hours and covers 275 kilometers. Reputed airlines like Royal Jordanian, Arkia Israeli Airlines, and Israel operate on this route. Once you land in Aqaba, you can arrange transportation to Petra, which is 124 kilometers north and takes another two to three hours. The total cost of the journey, including the flight from Tel Aviv to Petra and transport fare from Aqaba to Petra, ranges from USD 150 to USD 400 or more.

• Distance covered: 275 kilometers
• Duration: Around 3 to 5 hours

Pro tips:

• Compare airline flight options and prices to find the most suitable and cost-effective option for your journey.
• To ensure more favorable prices and availability, make your flight reservations well ahead of time.
• Familiarize yourself with your airline's baggage restrictions and guidelines to avoid any unforeseen charges or complications.
• Research transportation options for your trip to Petra from Aqaba.

A quick overview of traveling from Tel Aviv to Petra

Transport mode	Distance covered	Duration	Why choose this
Bus	478 kilometers	Around 8 hours	Budget-friendly, cultural immersion, and scenic views
Car	478 kilometers	Around 6 to 8 hours	Flexible and convenient, ideal for small groups of families, and allows personalized itinerary customization based on preferences and interests.
Flight	275 kilometers	3 to 5 hours	Fastest, most convenient, ideal for time and/or comfort-conscious travelers.

Whether you opt for the cost-effective bus ride, the flexibility of a car rental, or the speed and comfort of a flight, however you travel from Tel Aviv to Petra will let youexplore historic ruins, stunning desert landscapes, and cultural heritages along the way. So, select the mode that aligns with your travel style and embark on an unforgettable journey from Tel Aviv to Petra.

Petra, the "Rose City" of Jordan, is a mesmerizing archaeological marvel. Carved into red cliffs, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has roots dating back to the 4th century BC, once serving as the capital of the Nabatean Kingdom. Its most iconic feature is the Treasury, an intricately carved tomb, although Ad-Deir Monastery and the mystical narrow entranceway, As-Siq, are just as stunning. Beyond its rich historical significance, Petra boasts breathtaking desert vistas and an almost surreal atmosphere, making it an essential destination for history aficionados and nature enthusiasts alike.

With our Petra tours, you can explore this ancient city with ease and comfort, guided by experienced local experts who are deeply passionate about the region. But that's not all; our Petra tours offer flexibility, allowing you to customize your trip to Jordan to match your unique preferences. Whether you want to explore the hidden gems within Petra, hike to the Monastery, or simply take in the serene surroundings, our local travel experts in Jordan will assist you with tailored options to ensure your trip is a perfect fit for you.

Before you embark on your Petra adventure from Tel Aviv, we encourage you to explore our comprehensive guide on the top things to do in Jordan and the must-visit places in Jordan. Additionally, check our guide for insights on the best time to visit Petra to ensure your journey is perfectly timed for an unforgettable experience.