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Petra flourished more than 2,000 years ago, trading with Rome as an equal before being abandoned after a series of earthquakes in the 4th and 6th centuries C.E. It wasn’t until the 19th century, when European explorers “rediscovered” it, that the ancient city returned to the public consciousness. Now, visitors can walk down the narrow canyon of the siq to the city entrance—as dramatic an approach as any to a tourist attraction on the planet. The canyon opens up onto the carved facade of the Treasury, Petra’s most iconic site. From there, you can explore the cliffside tombs with their colorful bands of sandstone, the Street of Facades, and the amphitheater hewn from living rock. The ancient center lies some distance off, along with the splendid old Monastery, which sits at the top of a steep but rewarding climb. Consider buying a three-day ticket and visiting at different times of day to enjoy the changing light—early in the morning is best for the Treasury, while late afternoon is better for the Royal Tombs.

Sample sake, craft sushi, soak in hot springs, and meditate with a monk on this journey through Japan’s heart.

Crowds may swarm upon it daily from sunrise onwards, but exposure hasn’t dulled the impact of the largest religious monument in the world. Commissioned by King Suryavarman II in the 12th century as the centerpiece of the mighty Khmer empire, the structure is inspired by Hindu sacred design and is estimated to have taken around 30 years to build. The biggest surprise upon visiting might be learning that the vast complex of spires, moats, frescoes, cloisters, and balustrades was constructed in such speedy fashion. You won’t be alone while witnessing it, but sunrise over the iconic temple remains one of the essential experiences in Southeast Asia. A return in the afternoon when the camera-toting hordes have dispersed is also advisable.

Eat your way through D.C. with a four-day itinerary of top restaurants, food museums, markets, and unique stops like a zoo and a cookbook shop.

In this week’s episode of Unpacked by AFAR, the three members of AFAR’s mighty destination team tackle all things summer travel.

Check out vintage boutiques, designer shops, and more discoveries in Toronto’s dynamic retail scene on this four-day itinerary.

On this episode of Unpacked, we share expert insight to help you book an unforgettable summer of travel.

Explore in-depth coverage of what to do, where to stay, and what to eat in incredible travel destinations around the world.

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From kayaking and biking to spa treatments and great eats, this itinerary blends adventure and relaxation.

On this episode of Unpacked, host Aislyn Greene sits down with Afar senior editor Jennifer Hope Choi to explore what it means to travel with your stomach first and your itinerary second.

From the orchestra to community concerts and vinyl, experience how music flows through the state.

On this Feel Good Friday episode of Unpacked by Afar, the team celebrates baby salmon heading to sea, United’s first female senior pilot, and the joy of following pottery signs through rural Minnesota.

Enjoy global cuisines, explore Eastern Market, and visit renowned museums in this six-day itinerary.