I spent one night in Petra during my 7-day trip through Jordan, a country I keep coming back to because, honestly, I’m obsessed. There’s just something about the mix of ancient history, warm hospitality, and stunning landscapes that makes it feel like nowhere else.
Even though I’ve visited before, walking through the Siq and seeing the Treasury peek through the cliffs still gave me chills.
This time, I stayed literally right across the street at the stunning Mövenpick Resort Petra, and it was the perfect place to rest, recharge, and see this incredible site (without the extra walking after a full day of hiking!).
Here’s my experience staying at Mövenpick Petra in Jordan.
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Getting There
To get to the resort from the airport, I recommend either:
- Booking a taxi or private transfer from the airport
- Rent a car and drive yourself. The resort offers on-site parking, and the roads are quite scenic.
Just a heads up, there’s no hotel airport shuttle, so you’ll want to plan your transport ahead of time.
Services & Amenities
After a long and dusty day exploring the Lost City, this is exactly where you want to unwind.
Outdoor Swimming Pool: The water was the perfect temp, the loungers were comfy, and the staff made sure my drink was never empty. Bonus: there’s a sterile foot bath and showers to freshen up post-hike. Heaven.
Zara Spa: Tucked away in a calming corner of the resort, the spa is all about local wellness traditions with luxe touches. Think Dead Sea salt scrubs, mineral mud wraps, and regional herbs. There’s even a traditional hammam if you want the full experience.
Chocolate Hour: Yes, it’s a real thing, and yes, it’s free! Every afternoon, make your way to the Al Multaqa Lobby Lounge for your sweet fix. Do not miss it., especially if you have kiddos!
Gym: If you’ve still got energy to burn after Petra (go you!), there’s a fully equipped gym with all the modern gear.
On-site Shops: Pop into the resort’s boutique stores for locally made Dead Sea products, traditional crafts, and beautiful souvenirs.
The Location
It doesn’t get much better than this! The hotel is literally right across the street from the main entrance to the archaeological site, just 50 metres from the Visitor Centre and Petra Museum.
After a full day of hiking through ancient ruins, climbing up to the Monastery, and taking loads of photos of the views, I can’t tell you how relieved I was to just walk straight across the road and crash. No taxis, no extra walking, just a comfy bed and a hot shower waiting for me. Total game-changer.
The Rooms
Trust me, you’ll be so glad you booked a stay this comfy and convenient.
The rooms and suites at Mövenpick feature handcrafted Middle Eastern touches paired with modern comforts, including complimentary tea and coffee, and a free minibar (yes, really).
Some rooms open up to beautiful views of Petra’s surrounding hills, while others offer private courtyards for a quiet retreat.
If you’re splurging, the King Suite is the one. It has a private balcony with panoramic views of Petra and a separate living space that makes it feel more like a mini-apartment than a hotel room.
Dining
Mövenpick’s food scene is a total standout. With seven restaurants and cafés, there’s something for every craving, and trust me, I tried to sample them all.
Al Baraka Tea Room: This cosy tea room offers beautiful views of the Petra hills. By day, it’s perfect for unwinding with a cup of coffee and a good book, and by night, it turns into the perfect place to unwind with a hot tea by the fireplace.
Al Ghadeer Roof Garden: Rooftop views and barbecue under the stars? Say no more. This fourth-floor garden terrace is open during summer and absolutely gorgeous at sunset. Expect grilled fish (from the Red Sea), beef, vegetables, and more. And of course, there’s delicious mezze beforehand! You can also just hang with drinks and shisha if you’re not after a full meal. Either way, it’s not too missed
Al Iwan Restaurant: If you’re in the mood for something a bit fancy, Al Iwan is your spot. It’s candlelit, tucked away off the lobby, and the menu blends local Jordanian dishes with Mediterranean favorites. Apparently, it was named the best restaurant in Jordan by Grumpy Gourmet Magazine, and honestly, I can see why. Everything felt elevated but still warm and welcoming.
Al Maqa‘ad Bar: This place has serious old-world glam—think gold-leaf walls, intricate woodwork, plush fabrics. Stop by for happy hour and stay for the snacks and atmosphere. It’s the kind of bar you’ll want to linger in.
Al Multaqa Lobby Lounge: I may or may not have planned my Petra days around free Chocolate Hour here. The lounge is elegant but relaxed, with warm lighting, a little fountain, and beautiful wood-and-marble detailing.
Al Saraya Restaurant: A go-to for breakfast before setting off to Petra. It’s an all-day dining spot with an epic buffet. Fill up on smoothie shots, fresh flatbreads, eggs and sweet treats. There’s also an à la carte menu if you’re feeling something specific, but the buffet really is a feast.
Caravan Stop Shop: For a quick coffee, pastry, or takeaway snack before heading to the ruins head to this little lobby. It’s casual, convenient, and yes, they serve Mövenpick ice cream. That alone deserves a stop.
Activities & Experiences in Petra
Staying at Mövenpick Petra puts you right in the heart of the action, like, literally across the road from the ancient city itself. Here are a few must-see spots to add to your itinerary:
- Petra Archaeological Site: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and absolute showstopper. From the famous Siq gorge to the iconic Treasury (yep, the one from Indiana Jones), this place is a MUST.
- Little Petra: Fewer crowds, just as much ancient wonder. Explore Nabatean tombs carved into the cliffs, like a mini version of Petra without the uphill slog.
- Petra by Night: Picture the Treasury glowing under a sky full of stars, surrounded by candlelight. It’s touristy, yes, but totally worth it.
- Wadi Rum: Around a 2-hour drive away, this Mars-like desert is perfect for a day trip or overnight. Think 4×4 safaris, camel rides, stargazing, and Bedouin feasts.
- Dana Biosphere Reserve: Jordan’s largest nature reserve with amazing hiking trails and views that are unreal.
- Local food & culture experiences: From cooking classes to traditional feasts, this area is rich in flavor, history, and warm hospitality.
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Kids’ Experiences in Petra
If you’re travelling to Petra with little ones, Mövenpick Resort Petra makes it surprisingly easy for the whole fam.
Games Room: The basement games room is a total hit with older kids. There’s ping pong, darts, board games, and even a pool table.
Pool: There’s a pool to cool off in, though younger swimmers might need a bit of help as it’s on the deeper side.
Chocolate Hour: This will be hands-down the highlight of the day. I mean, unlimited sweets in a resort setting? Yes, please—for them and for me.
Kids’ Meals: Special kids’ meals and cute little treats are available, plus discounts for tiny travellers at the restaurants.
Babysitting Services: Need a break? They will arrange babysitting services for an additional cost.
Sustainability
Sustainability is woven into everyday life at Mövenpick. The resort focuses on three key areas: Environment, Employer, and Social Sustainability, with education at the core of each.
From hiring and empowering local communities to growing organic produce, cutting waste, and reducing energy use, every initiative is designed to make a lasting impact.
Recognised as the most Green Globe-certified hotel group in the world, over 75% of Mövenpick’s certified properties have achieved Gold or Platinum status, thanks to 5–10+ years of continuous commitment.
Guests can feel good knowing their stay supports a more thoughtful, responsible way to travel.
In My Opinion
If you’re visiting Petra, especially on a quick visit, staying at the Mövenpick is such a win. The location couldn’t be better, the pool and spa are exactly what I needed after a full day on my feet, and don’t even get me started on the free chocolate hour. It made my quick stay feel relaxed, easy, and just a little bit luxe.
