Petra: More Than Just Ancient Wonders
When you think of Petra, Jordan, images of the magnificent Treasury carved into rose-red cliffs, the vast Monastery perched high above, and the ancient Nabataean city unfolding before your eyes likely come to mind. It’s a place that ignites the imagination, a UNESCO World Heritage site that truly feels like stepping back in time. But what many visitors don’t realize is that Petra also offers a surprisingly vibrant contemporary scene, especially when it comes to enjoying a refreshing drink with a breathtaking view. While Petra itself is a historical site, the modern town of Wadi Musa, which serves as the gateway to Petra, boasts some fantastic spots to unwind and soak in the desert magic after a day of exploration. And when we talk about unwinding with a view, we’re talking about rooftop bars!
Imagine this: the sun begins its descent, casting a warm, golden glow over the rugged mountains surrounding Petra. The crowds thin out, and a sense of serene peace settles over the ancient city. You’ve spent your day marveling at millennia-old architecture, and now, you’re ready to relax. Finding a rooftop bar in Wadi Musa offers the perfect opportunity to experience this transition from day to night, with panoramic vistas that stretch across the dramatic landscape. These elevated havens provide a unique perspective, allowing you to see the landscape in a new light – or rather, under a blanket of stars.
Why Rooftop Bars in Wadi Musa?
The concept of rooftop bars might seem more at home in a bustling metropolis, but in Wadi Musa, it takes on a special significance. Here’s why seeking out these elevated spots is a must-do:
- Unparalleled Views: The dramatic topography of Petra and its surroundings means that even a simple building can offer spectacular vistas. Rooftop bars maximize this by providing unobstructed panoramas of the mountains, valleys, and sometimes, even glimpses of the ancient city’s distant silhouettes.
- Tranquil Escape: After a long day of walking and exploring the vast archaeological site of Petra, a rooftop bar offers a peaceful sanctuary. It’s a chance to decompress, reflect on the day’s discoveries, and enjoy a moment of quietude away from the main tourist thoroughfares.
- Magical Ambiance: As dusk settles, the desert transforms. The sky often puts on a show of vibrant colors, and the stars emerge with an incredible clarity due to the lack of light pollution. Rooftop bars are the ideal setting to witness this natural spectacle.
- Local Flavors and Global Comfort: While many rooftop bars offer international standards, some also incorporate local Jordanian flavors and hospitality, giving you a taste of authentic culture alongside your cocktail.
Top Rooftop Bar Recommendations in Wadi Musa
While Petra itself is an ancient site with no modern establishments within its boundaries, the town of Wadi Musa, just outside the visitor center, is where you’ll find these elevated oases. Here are some of the best places to enjoy a rooftop experience:
1. The Petra Kitchen Rooftop Terrace
While primarily famous for its authentic Jordanian cooking classes and delicious dinners, The Petra Kitchen also boasts a charming rooftop terrace. It’s not a dedicated bar in the traditional sense, but it’s the perfect spot for a pre-dinner drink or a digestif after enjoying their incredible food. The atmosphere is relaxed and intimate, offering lovely views of the surrounding hills as the sun sets. It’s a fantastic way to combine culinary exploration with scenic enjoyment.
Insider Tip: Book your cooking class or dinner well in advance, and inquire about enjoying a drink on the terrace before or after your meal. The staff are incredibly welcoming and often happy to accommodate.
Location: Al-Salam Street, Wadi Musa.
2. The Old Village Resort Rooftop Bar
This resort offers a more upscale experience, and its rooftop bar is a gem. Designed with a modern yet subtly Middle Eastern aesthetic, the bar provides sweeping views of the Wadi Musa valley and the distant mountains. It’s an excellent place to enjoy a well-crafted cocktail or a glass of Jordanian wine while watching the changing colors of the desert sky. The ambiance is sophisticated yet laid-back, making it ideal for a romantic evening or a relaxed catch-up with friends.
Insider Tip: Check if they have any live music or special events scheduled during your visit. The resort often hosts subtle cultural performances that enhance the evening.
Local Gem: While not strictly a rooftop bar, the general ambiance and views from many of the resort’s common areas and restaurants are also worth noting for their elevated perspectives.
Location: Near Petra Visitor Centre, Wadi Musa.
3. Channels Hotel Rooftop Terrace
The Channels Hotel offers a more accessible and budget-friendly option for enjoying a rooftop view. Their terrace provides a pleasant setting for a casual drink after a day of touring. While perhaps not as grand as some of the resort options, it offers a genuine local feel and a chance to mingle with other travelers. The views are still impressive, especially as the evening lights begin to twinkle in Wadi Musa.
Insider Tip: This is a great spot for a refreshing mint lemonade or a local beer. Ask the staff for recommendations on local snacks to accompany your drink.
Location: Wadi Musa Main Street, Wadi Musa.
4. Movenpick Resort Petra Rooftop
The Movenpick is a well-known hotel located very close to the Petra Visitor Centre. While they have several dining and lounging options, their rooftop or upper-level areas often provide excellent vantage points. You might not find a specific bar labeled “Rooftop Bar,” but exploring their restaurant and lounge areas on higher floors can yield fantastic panoramic views, especially during sunset. They offer a range of international and local beverages.
Insider Tip: Inquire at the reception about which areas offer the best sunset views. They are very knowledgeable about their property and the surrounding area.
Location: Petra Road, Wadi Musa.
5. The Lantern Restaurant Rooftop
The Lantern Restaurant is a popular spot among travelers for its good food and friendly atmosphere. While their main dining area is cozy, they also have an upper-level seating area that functions much like a rooftop, offering lovely views over the town and the surrounding hills. It’s a casual and unpretentious place to enjoy a meal and a drink, with the added bonus of an elevated perspective.
Insider Tip: This is a great place to try traditional Jordanian dishes. Pair your meal with a local Almaza beer or a glass of Arak for a true taste of Jordan.
Location: Wadi Musa, near the Petra Visitor Centre.
What to Expect and Insider Tips for Your Rooftop Experience
Visiting rooftop bars in Wadi Musa is a unique experience that blends the ancient wonders of Petra with the simple pleasures of modern relaxation. Here are some tips to make the most of your elevated evenings:
Timing is Everything
Sunset is Prime Time: Aim to arrive about an hour before sunset. This allows you to settle in, order your drinks, and witness the magical transformation of the landscape as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple. The transition from daylight to twilight and then to a starry night is spectacular.
Dress Code and Comfort
Wadi Musa is generally casual. For most rooftop bars, especially those in hotels or more relaxed restaurants, smart casual is perfectly acceptable. However, evenings in the desert can get surprisingly cool after sunset. It’s advisable to bring a light jacket or a shawl, even during warmer months. Comfortable footwear is essential, as you might be doing a lot of walking in Petra during the day.
Hydration and Local Drinks
While you’re enjoying alcoholic beverages, remember that you’re in a desert climate. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. When it comes to drinks, don’t shy away from trying local options:
- Jordanian Wine: Jordan produces some surprisingly good wines, particularly from the Zarqa region. Look for brands like Saint George or Zumot.
- Arak: This anise-flavored spirit is popular throughout the Middle East and is often enjoyed with water and ice.
- Local Beers: Amstel Light and Petra Beer are common local options.
- Non-Alcoholic Delights: Freshly squeezed pomegranate or mint lemonade are incredibly refreshing.
Respect Local Culture
Jordan is a Muslim country, and while Wadi Musa is accustomed to tourists, it’s important to be mindful of local customs. Most establishments serving alcohol are geared towards tourists. However, public displays of excessive alcohol consumption are best avoided. Dress modestly when not at the bar or your hotel, especially when visiting religious sites or more traditional areas.
Beyond the Bar: Exploring More
After enjoying a drink on a rooftop, you might feel inspired to explore more of Petra. For deeper insights into the history, culture, and preservation efforts of this incredible site, I highly recommend checking out dropt.beer’s blog. They often feature articles on unique travel experiences and local discoveries around the world. And if you’re interested in discovering more about unique beverage cultures or finding out where to get your hands on some interesting drinks, their shop at dropt.beer/shop/ might have just what you’re looking for. For a broader understanding of how beverages are enjoyed globally, including in destinations like Jordan, explore the main site at dropt.beer.
Practicalities: Getting Around Wadi Musa
Wadi Musa is a relatively small town, and most hotels and restaurants, including the rooftop bar locations mentioned, are within walking distance of each other or a short taxi ride from the Petra Visitor Centre. Taxis are readily available and affordable.
A Night to Remember
A rooftop bar experience in Wadi Musa is more than just having a drink; it’s about immersing yourself in the breathtaking landscape of Petra from a unique vantage point. It’s about enjoying the quiet moments after a day filled with awe-inspiring history, feeling the desert breeze, and gazing at a star-filled sky that seems impossibly vast. Whether you’re unwinding with a local wine or a refreshing mint lemonade, the memories you create on these elevated terraces will undoubtedly be a highlight of your journey to one of the world’s most incredible ancient cities.
So, as you plan your adventure to Petra, remember to carve out time for these special evening experiences. The rose-red city might capture your heart during the day, but its surrounding hills, viewed from a rooftop under the night sky, might just steal your soul.
