JerusalemvsPetra
Can't decide between Jerusalem and Petra? Compare these two amazing destinations to find your perfect match.
Jerusalem
Jerusalem is one of the world's oldest and holiest cities, sacred to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The walled Old City holds the Western Wall, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and Dome of the Rock—3,000 years of faith, conflict, and extraordinary history.
Known for
Petra
Petra is the "Rose City," an ancient Nabataean capital carved into red sandstone cliffs. This UNESCO World Heritage site and New Wonder of the World offers the iconic Treasury, over 800 monuments, and an archaeological experience unlike any other on Earth.
Known for
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Head-to-Head Comparison
See how these destinations stack up in key categories
Culture & History
Jerusalem offers Western Wall, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Dome of the Rock
Petra offers The Treasury (Al-Khazneh), The Siq, Monastery (Ad Deir)
Food & Dining
Jerusalem is famous for its local dining scene
Petra is famous for its local dining scene
Nightlife
Jerusalem offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Petra offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Best Time to Visit
March to May, September to November
March to May, September to November
Weather
Summer: 30°C, Winter: 12°C
Summer: 32°C, Winter: 12°C
Top Attractions in Jerusalem
- 1Western Wall
- 2Church of the Holy Sepulchre
- 3Dome of the Rock
- 4Old City Quarters
- 5Yad Vashem Holocaust Museum
- 6Mount of Olives
Top Attractions in Petra
- 1The Treasury (Al-Khazneh)
- 2The Siq
- 3Monastery (Ad Deir)
- 4Royal Tombs
- 5Petra by Night
- 6High Place of Sacrifice
Jerusalem is Popular With
Petra is Popular With
Hidden Gems
Discover lesser-known attractions in each city
Hidden Gems in Jerusalem
- 1
The Monastery of the Cross
A fortified Georgian Orthodox monastery nestled in the Valley of the Cross, near the Israel Museum and Knesset.
- 2
The Ticho House
A charming museum and cafe located in a historic home in downtown Jerusalem, once belonging to the ophthalmologist Dr.
Hidden Gems in Petra
- 1
The Garden Tomb Complex
A rarely visited group of tombs and triclinium rooms near the Basin Restaurant, featuring unique architectural details and peaceful surroundings away from main paths.
- 2
Al-Habis Museum
A small museum housed in a cave within the ancient city itself, displaying artifacts found in Petra with explanations in English and Arabic.
Neighborhoods to Explore
Discover the best areas to visit in each city
Top Areas in Jerusalem
The Old City
The historic, walled heart of Jerusalem, divided into four quarters.
Mahane Yehuda & Nachlaot
The bustling, sensory epicenter of modern Jerusalem.
Top Areas in Petra
The Siq & Treasury Area
The dramatic entrance to Petra, featuring the iconic 1.
Street of Facades & Theater District
The heart of ancient Petra's urban center, featuring rows of Nabataean tombs, the impressive Roman Theater, and the beginning of the Colonnaded Street.
Budget Comparison
Compare the cost of traveling in each city
Budget in Jerusalem
Budget in Petra
Book Activities
Find tours and experiences in both cities
Book Activities in Jerusalem
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Book Activities in Petra
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Getting There
Compare transport options to both destinations
Find cheap transport to Jerusalem
Compare prices for trains, buses, and flights to Jerusalem
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Find cheap transport to Petra
Compare prices for trains, buses, and flights to Petra
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Our Verdict
Both Jerusalem and Petra are incredible destinations. Jerusalem excels in holy sites and three religions, while Petra stands out for The Treasury and rock-cut architecture.
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