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How to get from Beirut to Petra
The practical way is to fly from Beirut to Amman (about 1 h 15 in the air) and then take the JETT bus or a car to Petra (about 3–3 h 30). Overland through Syria is not recommended. Allow a full day door to door.
Best option: Flight. Flying to Amman avoids an overland route through Syria and is the only straightforward option.
All the ways to make the trip
| How | Time | How often | Price* | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| flight Direct flights Beirut–Amman (Queen Alia airport) with Middle East Airlines and Royal Jordanian | about 1 h 15 flight time | several a day | roughly $150–350 one way | Check visa rules for Jordan; many nationalities can buy a visa on arrival or use the Jordan Pass. |
| bus JETT coach from Amman to Wadi Musa (Petra), after reaching Amman from the airport | about 3–3 h 30 | usually one or two a day; check current timetables | about 10–15 JOD | Book a day ahead in busy seasons. |
| car Rental car or private driver from Amman airport via the Desert Highway to Petra | about 3 h | fuel plus car hire; a private driver costs roughly 70–100 JOD | The King's Highway is slower but scenic. |
*Approximate prices and times for 2026. Timetables change by season: check with the operator before you travel.
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Tips
- Consider the Jordan Pass if staying three nights or more; it can include the visa fee and Petra entry.
- Stay in Wadi Musa to enter Petra early in the morning.
- Check current travel advice for the region before booking.
- Do not attempt to drive or bus through Syria.
Common questions
Can I travel overland from Beirut to Petra?
An overland route would pass through Syria, which most governments advise against and which involves complex border and visa issues. In practice nearly every traveller flies from Beirut to Amman and continues by road to Petra. Check your government's current travel advice before considering any overland option.
How do I get from Amman to Petra?
The JETT coach company runs buses from Amman to Wadi Musa, the town next to Petra, usually once or twice a day, taking about 3 to 3 hours 30 minutes. Alternatively, rent a car at the airport or book a private driver; the Desert Highway takes about 3 hours.
Can I do it as a day trip?
No. The flight, airport formalities and three hours on the road take most of a day each way. Petra itself needs at least one full day, and many visitors spend two. Plan to stay at least one or two nights in Wadi Musa.
Do I need a visa for Jordan?
Many nationalities can get a visa on arrival at Amman airport, or have the fee waived with the Jordan Pass if they stay at least three nights. The Jordan Pass also includes Petra entry. Rules change and depend on nationality, so check official Jordanian sources before you fly.
Compiled by TonyPlan from operator and transport information and travel knowledge; updated 2026-10-05. Anything we could not confirm is marked as approximate.