jordan tourist locations

11 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Jordan

Written by Joni Sweet Updated Mar 19, 2024

Jordan is a traveler's dream introduction to the Middle East. Safe and friendly, the destination gets travelers up close to world wonders and immerses them in world-class hospitality . You'll feel right at home once you slip into the culture of this easygoing country.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites abound in Jordan. Marvel at fading frescos in the 1,300-year-old desert castle of Quseir Amra . Climb red sand dunes and stand in the shadows of weathered sandstone in Wadi Rum 's humbling desert landscape . And plan to spend at least two days exploring Jordan's crown jewel attraction: Petra . The jaw-dropping sites in the ancient Nabatean city will leave you stunned – and eager to see more.

But Jordan's not solely rooted in the past. Its hilly capital, Amman , brims with bustling restaurants and cafés, swanky shopping, and impressive art galleries. Then, there's the Dead Sea – where you can kick up your feet after days of sightseeing and dig in to some much-needed pampering at the many luxe waterfront resorts.

Plan your vacation to the Middle East and see the best places to visit with our list of the top tourist attractions in Jordan.

2. Dead Sea

3. wadi rum, 4. jerash ruins, 6. roman ruins in amman, 7. ancient mosaics of madaba, 8. wadi mujib, 9. desert castles, 11. mount nebo, map of tourist attractions in jordan, best time of year to visit jordan.

Prepare to be amazed by Petra. One of the New7Wonders of the World , this attraction has wowed modern-day visitors since the long-lost city's rediscovery by Swiss explorer Jean Louis Burckhardt more than 200 years ago.

You'll need at least two days to hit all the highlights around Petra, which include more than 800 registered sites . But if you have more time, you won't be disappointed spending it here. Wandering around a city this ancient in such a well-preserved state is an experience like none other.

Petra wastes no time impressing tourists. Immediately after the entrance, you'll see mysterious Djinn Blocks , imposing stone monuments whose original purpose still remains unknown, followed by the Obelisk Tomb. It's just a sample of the incredible sites to come.

From here, you'll make your way through the Siq – the famous snaking canyon pathway flanked by tall walls. Look along the walls to see the remnants of historic channels that were used to supply Petra with water, as well as niches for sacred carvings known as baetyls . These artifacts hint that Petra may have been considered a holy city at one point in time. Keep your eye out for the weathered relief sculpture of camels being lead by two merchants, as well.

Finally, you'll reach the unmistakable Treasury (also known as Al-Khazneh). Showcased in nearly every travel guide book and social media post about Petra, this attraction's Hellenistic facade is one of the most enchanting places to visit in Jordan. Legend has it that the rock-hewn monument, which was built as the final resting place for Nabatean King Aretas IV, was the hiding place for an Egyptian pharaoh's treasure at the time of Moses.

When it comes to things to do in Petra after the Siq and the Treasury, it's a choose-your-own adventure. Check out dozens of tombs and houses on the Street of Facades , climb steep stairs for a great view at the High Place of Sacrifice, stand in awe at the Theater and stroll down the impressive Colonnaded Street.

If your feet aren't too sore yet, make your way up the roughly 850 rock-cut steps to the legendary Monastery. The impressive structure, tucked in the hills, is well worth the journey.

If you thought Petra was incredible during the day, wait until you see it after dark. Reserve tickets to the Petra By Night show to see the Siq and the Treasury lit by more than 1,500 flickering candles.

Floating in the Dead Sea is a quintessential thing to do in Jordan. The lowest point on Earth accessible by road, this body of water is located at 418 meters below sea level. It practically glows an intense shade of aquamarine – a particularly striking sight next to salt-encrusted rock ledges and barren red mountains in the background. You can reach the attractions in the Dead Sea region in about an hour by car from Amman.

The Dead Sea is renowned for its mineral-rich water. Wellness devotees believe the water has healing properties for the skin. Don't plan to swim laps, though – the Dead Sea is so dense and salient that all you can really do is float atop the surface.

You can access the Dead Sea from a couple of entry points, including Amman Beach. Better yet, splurge on a stay at one of the plush spa resorts on the Dead Sea's northeast coast. They typically have private wading areas complete with buckets of Dead Sea mud. One bath with this red-brown sludge, and your skin will be softer than ever.

Hot tip: Avoid getting Dead Sea water in your eyes at all costs. The intense salinity (10 times saltier than the ocean!) stings worse than you can imagine.

Head to the southern region of Jordan, and you'll be treated to one of the most spectacular landscapes across the globe: Wadi Rum. Also known as the Valley of the Moon, this sandstone and granite rock valley is an otherworldly experience, with towering cliffs, massive dunes, swirling archways, and caverns. It served as the set for much of the 1962 film Lawrence of Arabia and was tagged a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011.

Adventure lovers, eat your heart out: The Zalabia Bedouin, a cultural group that lives in the area, have transformed the Wadi Rum into an ecotourism playground. You can ride camels or spirited Arabian horses through the area, strap on a harness and go rock climbing up the sandstone mountains, hike through canyons , and kick up sand on ATV tours .

Ask your tour guide to take you to the Khazali Canyon , where you can see petroglyphs of humans and antelopes that may date as far back as the 8th century BC.

Consider spending the night at one of the luxurious " glamping " (glamorous camping) sites in Wadi Rum. With almost zero light pollution, the park offers incredible stargazing opportunities . No wonder visiting Wadi Rum is one of the top things to do in Jordan.

Official site: http://wadirum.jo/

Nothing feels more like traveling back in time than visiting the Jerash ruins. It's one of the world's best-preserved ancient Roman cities and features spectacular places to visit, from colonnaded avenues and temples to a massive sports arena that once had a seating capacity of 15,000 spectators.

Tourists kick off their sightseeing adventure of the Jerash ruins by walking through Hadrian's Arch . The roughly 11-meter-tall structure is magnificent, but even more impressive when you consider it was originally double the size.

If that wasn't enough to wow you, wait until you explore what's ahead. The Hippodrome , a sports field constructed around the 2nd century, once hosted chariot races as entertainment for thousands of onlookers. The ancient sport is brought back to life through daily re-enactments, featuring fighting gladiators and chariots racing laps.

Another highlight of the Jerash ruins is the Forum. The oval-shaped plaza is lined by still-standing columns that give the space a regal feel. Climb the steps of the nearby Temple of Zeus to get an even better view of the colonnaded site. And imagine the performances that took place on the ornate stage of the South Theater . Jerash seems to have a fascinating ruin for everyone – explore to see which site is your favorite.

Hot tip: There's almost no shade in this archeological site. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a sunhat to keep yourself protected from the harsh rays.

Think you can't have a seaside vacation in the hot, dry Middle East? Think again. Aqaba, a beach town on the southern tip of Jordan, treats tourists to holidays on the breathtaking coastline of the Red Sea .

Float, swim, snorkel, or dive – you can do it all from Aqaba. You can also get out on the turquoise water on one of the daily cruises offered by local hotels. Enhance your beach vacation in Jordan with a soak in one of the lovely hammams around the resort town.

When you're feeling peckish, dig into the local specialty of Aqaba: sayadieh , a dish of fish on flavorful rice with onion, tomato, and chili pepper.

You don't have to go all the way to Petra to see fantastic archeological sites in Jordan. In fact, the capital Amman (where you'll probably arrive from abroad) is home to a variety of fascinating ruins, many of which are within short walking distance from one another.

Head downtown to see one of the most celebrated ruins: the Amman Citadel. Archeologists have found artifacts around the Citadel that suggest it has been occupied since at least the Bronze Age. Here, you can see the few columns that remain of the amazing Temple of Hercules , a significant Roman structure that was never completed. Look for the stone sculpture of several fingers, which were once part of a Hercules statue that may have been more than 12 meters tall. It hints at just how majestic this attraction was during its height.

One of the top attractions in Amman for history buffs is the Roman Theater. The restored amphitheater, which seats 6,000 people, dates back to when Amman was a Roman-ruled city known as Philadelphia, nearly 2,000 years ago. The attraction is still full of life, hosting many events and welcoming locals and tourists alike.

Nearby, tourists can visit the Nymphaeum , a Roman fountain that was built around the same time as the theater, as well as the smaller 500-seat theater, the Odeon.

After getting your fill of the ruins, see the vibrant culture of modern-day Amman with a sightseeing trip along Rainbow Street. The popular promenade boasts atmospheric cafés, fantastic people-watching opportunities, and souvenir shops galore!

While sightseeing in many destinations demands you look up, the opposite is true in the historic trading city of Madaba. The city is home to the "largest number of mosaics discovered in their original location in the world," many of which are located on the floors of churches and buildings around the city.

The relatively unassuming St. George's Church is home to one of the most noteworthy mosaics in Jordan: the Madaba Mosaic Map. The 6th-century map depicts the Holy Land during the Byzantine period, showcasing Biblical-era cartography. While some of the original two million tiles are missing, the remnants of the map still give you an excellent glimpse at what the Middle East looked like many centuries ago.

Visitors can see more mosaics at Madaba's two archeological parks. The open-air museum at Archaeological Park I contains a stunning geometric mosaic from the Church of the Virgin Mary – a site from the 6th century that was unearthed in someone's basement in 1887. This attraction also houses the oldest mosaic in Jordan , which dates back to the 1st century BC, as well as breathtaking carpet-like tile work of the four seasons and nature that was once in a Byzantine villa.

Tourists can see other impressive mosaics at Archaeological Park II, located in the ruins of a luxurious mansion from the early 6th century.

Stretching from the Desert Highway around 70 kilometers to the Dead Sea , Wadi Mujib is Jordan's answer to America's Grand Canyon. The river canyon, which is four kilometers wide and one kilometer deep, offers nature lovers the chance to explore unique scenery and see a plethora of wildlife, including Egyptian vultures, Nubian ibex, striped hyena, and the Syrian wolf.

There's great hiking through the Wadi Mujib gorge , if you don't mind getting a little wet. You can also head to the Mujib Reserve Biosphere to soak in picturesque hot springs just an hour and a half away from Amman.

Stretching from Amman to the border of Saudi Arabia, the Zarqa Governorate is home to a series of archeological sites known as the Desert Castles. These early Islamic buildings were erected by the Umayyads around the turn of the 7th century. Not quite castles in the traditional sense, the collection of structures consists of hunting lodges, forts, military citadels, bathhouses, and rest stops for caravans, among other types of buildings.

Rent a car and drive the Desert Castle Loop to visit the sites. You'll get the chance to see Quseir Amra , a squat building with interiors covered with beautiful frescoes; Quseir Hallabat , a Roman fort that features volcanic basalt rock and a well-preserved mosaic; Quseir Al-Kharanah, a castle-like structure that has dozens of rooms, but whose original function has been lost to history; and Azraq Castle , an ancient walled fort known as the place where T.E. Lawrence sought shelter in 1917-1918.

Situated just 20 kilometers northwest of Jerash , Ajloun makes a worthwhile trip for tourists who want to see some of the best natural scenery in all of Jordan. Plan to spend a day hiking around the Ajloun Forest Reserve , a 13-square-kilometer expanse of pristine, open woodlands. In the spring, the area is blanketed by wildflowers, which makes for spectacular photo opportunities. Keep your eyes peeled for the crested porcupines and striped hyenas that live in the area.

Be sure to visit the Ajloun Castle on the summit of Mount Auf. It was built in the 12th century in the footprints of an even older Byzantine monastery to protect against the Crusader attacks. Its mountaintop location offers sweeping views of the Jordan Valley.

Mount Nebo is the crown jewel of Biblical sites in Jordan. According to the Old Testament, this mountain is said to be the place where Moses saw the Promised Land ahead of his death. Today, it's a spiritual attraction, with some of the country's best preserved mosaics from the 6th century, a Serpentine Cross , and the famous Moses Memorial Church.

Your ticket to the church includes access to Memorial Viewpoint, which has a small museum and views of the Dead Sea and Jerusalem on a clear day. But for more privacy with similar vistas, take a 100-meter walk on the road downhill from Mount Nebo and make a left toward the hilltop. It's the perfect spot for a picnic lunch.

The best time to visit Jordan is from March through June , during the country's beautiful spring season. It's considered high season in the destination, as throngs of tourists flock to Amman, Petra, and the Dead Sea to take advantage of spring's warm days and breezy nights.

The weather and climate of Jordan can vary considerably depending on where you are. In Amman , towards the north, tourists can expect perfect weather for sightseeing in the spring . It's still a bit chilly in March, with low temperatures in Amman dropping to an average of six degrees Celsius and highs typically hitting 17 degrees Celsius. Bring a light jacket if you plan to go sightseeing at Amman's incredible archeological attractions, like the Amman Citadel and the Roman Theater.

The relatively temperate spring weather makes it a great time of year for tourists to tackle parts of the Jordan Trail. The long-distance hiking trail stretches from Umm Qais to Aqaba for a whopping 675 kilometers. Hikers can trek through some 75 villages and towns on the trail, experience some of the country's best desert sightseeing, explore ancient ruins, and make stops at major attractions (including Petra ). While the entire trail takes about 40 days to hike, you can tackle certain segments over the course of a few days.

The capital warms up throughout the spring, and by June, the temperature in Amman ranges from 17 degrees Celsius at night to 30 degrees Celsius during the day. While you might get the occasional shower in March or April, it hardly rains in Amman from May through October . Take advantage of the sunshine to explore Rainbow Street and enjoy the city's lovely al fresco falafel joints.

Jordan also has another sightseeing highlight during the spring season: flowers. Head to the northern hills to see the Earth carpeted by brightly colored w ildflowers, and drive along the King's Highway for a glimpse of Jordan's national flower, the Black Iris, blooming along the roadside. Who knew the landscape of the Middle East could be this vibrant?

The best time to visit Jordan's biggest attraction – Petra – is also in the spring . It's typically a couple of degrees warmer than Amman. While the cool early spring temperatures make sightseeing in Petra more pleasant in Mach and April, tourists can enjoy 14 hours of daylight in June. The extra light gives you lots of time to venture beyond the Siq and Treasury and see some of Petra's other interesting attractions, like the Colonnaded Street and the High Place of Sacrifice. Ambitious (and fast-walking) tourists may even have time to climb the 850 rock-cut steps to reach the Monastery , one of Petra's most impressive structures, before the sun sets.

If you want to camp out in Wadi Rum , or simply enjoy the Valley of the Moon's amazing scenery and ancient petroglyphs on a day trip, plan to visit in early spring. The temperatures in March and April range from lows of 8 degrees Celsius to highs of 29 degrees Celsius . If you had to pick between the two months to visit Wadi Rum, go for May – it has a lower chance of precipitation that might otherwise rain out your adventures.

However, if you're drawn to the Red Sea and the beach town of Aqaba, you may want to visit earlier in the season, such as March or the beginning of April. You can expect temperatures to range from 14 to 18 degrees Celsius on the low end to highs of 27 to 31 degrees Celsius during this time of year.

By May, southern Jordan heats up to scorching temperatures – highs climb to an average of 36 degrees Celsius that month, and it regularly hits 40 degrees Celsius by July and August. It rarely rains in Aqaba, so if you visit in early spring, you can enjoy pristine beach weather and ample sunshine for snorkeling, swimming, and diving.

If you're in Jordan in early summer, you can experience one of the country's official public holidays, King Abdullah's Coronation Anniversary , on June 9. Events occur all over the country to commemorate the rise of the king and celebrate Jordan as a nation.

The 8 most incredible places to visit in Jordan

Nov 28, 2023 • 9 min read

Explore the very best of Jordan with this guide to the top places to visit © Hamdan Owidah / 500px

There are many good reasons to put  Jordan on your travel wish list. 

Beyond the well-known (and justly famous) cliff-carved city of Petra , visitors here can explore the friendly villages and forested trails of Jordan’s north, the ancient ruins in Amman , and the mind-bending Mars-like desertscapes of Wadi Rum . Jordan is a fabulous destination for travelers with an adventurous spirit and an interest in Arab history and culture. 

The intensity here – of the weather , traffic and terrain – can be overwhelming for first-time visitors , yet if you let go of your expectations and embrace all that Jordan offers, you’ll find warm hospitality and unique experiences  that you’ll treasure forever. 

Each of Jordan’s regions offer destinations with much to see and do (and eat!). Here are eight of the best places to visit in Jordan. 

1. Umm Qais

Best place for hiking and nature

Located about two hours north of Amman, Umm Qais is an ideal base for exploring northern Jordan with its forested trails, farm-to-fork meals, warm hospitality and archaeological sites complete with sweeping views of the surrounding area.

We recommend seeking out local experiences (from an experienced operator like  Baraka Destinations ) – imagine exploring the Greco-Roman ruins of Gadara , foraging with a local farmer, cooking with a Jordanian chef, cycling the countryside with a local guide or harvesting honey with a local beekeeper. This variety of activities means Umm Qais is an excellent destination for all types of visitors, including families, couples and solo travelers. 

Nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts will be spoiled for choice, too, with the Yarmouk Forest Reserve – a favorite of savvy locals like mountaineer Mohammed Ziad Abdullatif – within easy reach. Abdullatif suggests hiring a local guide through the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature or a tour operator such as Baraka Destinations. An expert can introduce you to the flora and fauna, and (if you’re lucky) prepare shai (tea) to share in the shade of the deciduous oak trees that grow here. 

Planning tip:  Umm Qais is also the starting point for the Jordan Trail . You can book a guided day hike from here to Arab Dam – we recommend  Experience Jordan . Trek this northern section in the springtime for the highest chance of seeing the region carpeted in wildflowers.

2. Dana Biosphere Reserve

Best region for nature and wildlife

Dana Biosphere Reserve , Jordan’s largest, contains mountains, wadis, more than 600 plant species, nearly 200 bird species, rare mammals such as the Syrian wolf and Nubian ibex and an archaeological site. Local hikers recommend this area for its unique ecology, varied terrain, incredible views and serenity. 

Visitors can make Feynan Ecolodge their home base before connecting with Bedouin culture and the land through locally led experiences such as grazing goats with a shepherd, hiking in the wadis with a Bedouin guide, baking arbood bread, learning about medicinal plants and making Arabic coffee over a fire.

For intrepid travelers looking to stay out under the stars, multi-day hikes in Dana and on the Jordan Trail’s Dana-to-Petra section can be arranged.

Best place for archaeology fans

An easy day trip from Amman, Jerash is home to Gerasa , one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the Middle East. You don’t have to be a history or archaeology buff to appreciate the beauty of this impressive site, but it is helpful to hire a guide either on-site or in advance through a tour operator such as Engaging Cultures , as signage is limited.

Since the Forum , lined by stone columns, is a can’t-miss and is best viewed from above, be sure to take the steps up to the Temple of Zeus for a panoramic view of the ancient city, with modern-day Jerash in the background.

This region is also known for superior olives and olive oil, with some of the olive trees believed to be hundreds of years old. If you’re traveling to Jordan in September or October, book a multi-day trip with Engaging Cultures that includes an olive harvest experience, lunch and an overnight stay with a local family in nearby Orjan, as well as a visit to Ajloun Castle . 

Planning tip:  The site at Jerash is vast, so plan accordingly. Count on a minimum of three hours to see the main sights, plus additional time to explore more and take photos. Wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection. 

Best place for urban adventures

Don’t make the mistake of just passing through the capital city.  Amman is well worth getting to know. More than just a gateway to the country, it’s Jordan’s heartbeat, pulsing with the energy of the old and new, and millennia of history and culture.  

If you only have one day in Amman, you’ve got to go straight to the top. Visit the highest hill in the city to find the Citadel , an archaeological site that includes Umayyad Palace and the remaining pillars of the Temple of Hercules. Enjoy 360-degree views and respite from the cars and crowds below. 

What goes up must come down – and when you do descend, make a stop at the Roman Theater before wandering Al Balad, the buzzing downtown district where you’ll find souvenir shops, street souks, argileh (shisha) cafes and vendors serving up fresh falafel and kunafeh (a Middle Eastern cheese pastry topped with nuts and syrup). Take a stroll on Rainbow Street before ending the evening on a high note with a sunset dinner at one of the city’s rooftop bars or restaurants.

If you have two days in Amman, learn more about the country’s history at the Jordan Museum or dive into Jordanian culture hands first with an interactive class such as a cooking lesson at female-run Beit Sitti or an olive-oil-soap-making workshop at Mosaic House .

Best place for ancient Christian sites

Just 20 minutes from Queen Alia International Airport, Madaba is a convenient and quiet place to rest your head on arrival in Jordan. A friendly and welcoming town for visitors of all faiths, Madaba is home to one of the largest Christian communities in Jordan.

You’ll find several churches in town; visit  St George’s Church  to admire one of the oldest known maps of the Holy Land, made of mosaic tiles in 560 CE.

Planning tip:  While in the region, save time for a visit to Mt Nebo , just 15 minutes from Madaba. It’s believed Moses saw the Promised Land from the mountain’s summit – a view you can take in, too. Atop the mountain, some of Jordan’s most prized mosaics can be seen at Moses Memorial Church, while a small on-site museum highlights the place’s history.

6. The Dead Sea

Best place for natural healing

Soak and scrub your worries away with a spa experience on the Jordanian shores of the Dead Sea. DIY types can wade in and slather on some mineral-rich mud before floating in the high-salinity water, while beauty mavens can continue the experience at a spa at one of the numerous luxury hotels by the shore (we love the treatments at the Kempinski Hotel Ishtar ).

In addition to the healing properties of the mineral-filled mud and water, the oxygen-rich air and dry climate of this region are also believed to be beneficial for people with a variety of health conditions. Just keep in mind the heat can be unbearable during the summer. 

Planning tip:  In the warmer months, consider an outdoor jaunt in nearby Wadi Mujib – the “Grand Canyon of Jordan” – with a hike in the shade of the gorge followed by a cool dip in the fresh water. You can also hike in the wadis (valleys) near South Ghor on the southern end of the Dead Sea with Al Numeira Environmental Association , then refuel at the organization’s cafe, which serves food and drinks made from locally sourced ingredients.

Best place for cultural icons

However long you're in Jordan, UNESCO-listed Petra is somewhere you shouldn't miss. The “Rose Red City,” so named for the pink stone and sand found here, is massive at 264 sq km (102 sq miles). You could easily spend hours, a full day or several days trekking the area and marveling at the handiwork and history of the ancient Nabatean culture. 

Choose your own adventure depending on your interests, time and ability. If you’re short on time, take the road most traveled and hike through the Siq to reach the Treasury facade. (Yes, Jordan’s most famous site is the carved-stone setting you may have seen in the 1989 movie  Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade .) 

If you’ve got a full day, map out your can’t-misses in advance. If you have multiple days set aside and want to go beyond the most common sites, book a guided tour that might include storytelling, hiking, Arabic coffee and meals. 

Local tip:  Want to see Petra from another angle? Take a tip from Mohammed Ziad Abdullatif and hike to Petra (either from Little Petra or, if you’re up for a more challenging trek, via the multi-day Dana-to-Petra leg of the Jordan Trail) before exploring the ancient city. “The Petra Back Trail from Little Petra to Petra is my all-time favorite hike for its location, scenery, history and that first glimpse of the Monastery when it starts to appear,” Abdullatif says. 

8. Wadi Rum

Best place for stunning desert landscapes

No spaceship is required to visit the Mars-like landscapes of Wadi Rum ; modes of transport here instead range from foot and camel to 4WD and even hot-air balloon. Rugged mountains and graceful natural arches in a sea of rust-colored sand make this protected area one of the most photogenic and beautiful places in Jordan – and the world.

Many travelers come seeking a slower pace and silence, though Wadi Rum has become so popular that you may have to go farther afield, away from the main sites and camps, to find true desert tranquility. You can also spend a day with a Bedouin guide hiking, cooking and learning how to build a tent.

One of the best places in the world for rock climbing, Wadi Rum also attracts active and adventurous travelers. Book a guided climb and overnight camping with Bedouin Campsite and Tours  and learn from Bedouin people who’ve grown up scaling these sandstone giants.

Planning tip: The Red Sea resort city of Aqaba  is an hour’s drive away and the perfect place for an indulgent spa treatment and a luxury stay after working up a sweat in Wadi Rum.

This article was first published Mar 30, 2022 and updated Nov 28, 2023.

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Home » Travel Guides » Jordan » 15 Best Places to Visit in Jordan

15 Best Places to Visit in Jordan

Jordan occupies one great cut-out of the Arabian Peninsula. Sandwiched between the more tumultuous nations of contested Israel, Iraq and Syria, it’s long been considered one of the rare stable enclaves of the region; one replete with mind-blowing UNESCO World Heritage Sites and totemic cultural hotspots – not least of all the carved ancient Nabatean ruins of Petra and the very site where Jesus Christ is thought to have been baptized!

Add in a deep, deep history going back thousands of years to the times of the earliest humans (archeological findings have suggested that even Neanderthal roamed these parts), and Jordan also begins to reveal its crumbling Roman cities, its exquisite Ottoman charm, those Persian treasures and Egyptian relics from long gone dynasties.

Jordan isn’t all about touring the past though, and you’ll only have to look to the lively streets of Aqaba on the Red Sea for world-class diving, or the downtown areas of Amman – the capital – for a burgeoning nightlife scene and up-coming modern art to boot.

Lets explore the best places to visit in Jordan :

The undisputed piece de resistance of Jordan is a place totally unlike anywhere else in the country.

Set out between the red-hued desert escarpments in the southern heartlands of the country, it’s thought the site was first inhabited in the 4th century BC. It was the ancestral capital of the thriving Arabian Nabataean civilization, which managed to raise the rock-cut treasuries and temples here to one of the most important trading outposts in the region.

Today, the whole enchanting site is known for its roles in Hollywood blockbusters like Indiana Jones, and comes hidden between a series of winding siq (tunnels created by erosion) passageways that are a real treat to explore.

In short: Petra is not to be missed!

2. Al-Maghtas

Butting up to the Israel-Jordan border on the extreme eastern edge of the country, the dust-caked conglomeration of small dig sites and uncovered builds known as Al-Maghtas is arguably one of the most important biblical relics to be found on the entire courses of the Jordan River.

Tagged by UNESCO and slowly becoming a high-profile pilgrimage site for Christians (think papal visits aplenty in the last couple of decades), it’s thought to have been the original site of the baptism of Jesus.

Apart from that, the spot displays an interesting array of Jewish and Christian religious remains, Roman constructions, and Orthodox monasteries from the ages of the Ottomans and Mamluks.

Amman is a great place to feel the beating pulse of Arabia, and get a sense of the deep histories and cultural strands that inform Jordan as a whole.

Head to the warren of streets that weave and wind through the hectic center of the capital to see the mosaic of frenetic souks and echoing mosque minarets that make up the famous area of Balad.

Or, go to Abdali, where leafy boulevards give way to chic cafes and high-street boutiques.

There’s a clutch of must-see sights and landmarks to add to the menu too: that colossal Roman Theatre; the occasional remains of Ammonite fortifications; the medley of mosques and churches and palisades that make up the Jabal al-Qal’a citadel…

It’s a testimony to the sheer wealth of immersive history that still exists at the ruined city of Jerash that this site just north of Amman pulls in almost as many visitors as the legendary rock-cut temples at Petra.

Yep, this medley of towering colonnades and old forums, fascinating temples turned to Byzantine churches, and great plazas is hailed as perhaps the most amazing Roman provincial city still on the planet today.

You can come and stand where merchants from the Med would once have touted their goods, or imagine the hubbub of camel caravans arriving here straight from the dunes of the great Arabian sand sea.

5. Wadi Rum

Sun-scorched and glowing deep orange and red under the Arabian sun, the breathtaking reaches of the Wadi Rum of southern Jordan are surely one of the most awesome natural wonders in the region.

Carved from the rocky limestone escarpments that rise and fall dramatically on the eastern fringes of Aqaba, the famous valley is quintessential Jordanian backcountry.

Huge bluffs of rock-ribbed mountains loom on the horizon; mythic petroglyphs from ancient Nabatean peoples hide in the nooks and crannies; camels groan, and climbers swing tenuously from ropes around the hoodoos.

It’s hardly a surprise that this was chosen as the backdrop to one Lawrence of Arabia back in 1962!

6. Dead Sea

The Dead Sea carves its way through the heartlands of the Middle Eastern Levant.

The lowest and most salty of the world’s ocean water bodies, it’s encircled by rising mountains and ochre-hued sand dunes, all of which reflect majestically upon the surface as the Arabian sun beats down.

Today, the whole area on the Jordanian banks (the western side is over the border in Israel) comes dotted with beaches and resort hotels, while the south of the sea is taken over with interesting mineral evaporation pools, built for the harvesting of carnallite and potassium.

The favorite activity though? Well, that’s surely lazing on the surface of the water, where the high saline density keeps travelers afloat like logs!

Aqaba is Jordan’s gateway to the Red Sea.

It buts up to the out-and-out resort town of Eilat in Israel across the border, and crowns the tip of the salty water with a medley of palm-spotted promenades and yellow sand beaches.

Today, widespread redevelopment projects, and the raising of uber-luxurious resort hotels at Tala Bay just to the south, are converting Aqaba into the perfect seaside escape in the Middle East.

You can tour the ancient ruins of Tall Hujayrat Al-Ghuzlan, see the date trees of the Shatt Al-Ghandour, or do what most do: go underwater on a SCUBA excursion to see the multi-colored reefs that fringe the submarine beds all around.

8. Mujib Nature Reserve

This vast swathe of north-west Jordan promises some seriously breathtaking backcountry, complete with winding river valleys and dust-caked gorges, steep-sided valleys sculpted over the centuries and oodles of hidden walkways chiseled out of the rocks.

It’s known as the lowest nature reserve on the globe, and slopes down slowly to the saline waters of the Dead Sea.

Today, it’s taken over largely by adventure tourists and outdoors outfitters, who offer everything from intrepid hikes to heart-thumping rock climbing in the canyons to zip-lining through the dry and dusty air.

9. Dana Nature Reserve

Go back in time with a trip to the rugged lands of the Dana Nature Reserve.

This sweeping dash of carved valleys and rock-ribbed hills, scrub-dressed mountains and chiseled peaks topped with crumbling rocks, is not only Jordan’s largest protected area, but also offers a glimpse at the age-old lifestyles of the Middle Eastern folk who’ve made their home here.

You can bed down in drystone huts in the ancient villages, or opt to camp under the stars, all before days of hiking through the dusty canyons and spotting rare Nubian ibexes on the ridges.

It’s wonderful stuff for the outdoorsy traveler.

The old, old city of Madaba can be found clinging to the edge of the famous King’s Highway that weaves through the dusty desert hills and the very historic heart of Jordan.

Dominated by its glorious, gold-gilded mosque and collection of spiked minarets, the town also hides some awesome ancient mosaics that date from the Umayyad era.

There are wondrous Byzantine artworks lurking in the alcoves and chapels of the Orthodox Saint George Cathedral too, not to mention a clutch of old Roman ruins peppering the town.

You’ll also be able to sample spice-packed Jordanian mezze and smoky shisha in the fading Ottoman houses along the main drag.

Dominating the green and undulating hills of northern Jordan, the historic town of Ajloun is now just a smattering of individual villages and hamlets.

All of these smaller settlements are glued together by the soaring rises of the famous Ajloun Castle, which is by far the main reason most folk flock to these parts.

This mighty citadel of the Muslim dynasties of old sits in pride of place, on the ridges of Jabal Ajlun above the wadis that surround the peak.

It’s now possible to hike up to the old gateways and pass into the interior courtyards.

Within is a comprehensive exhibition that chronicles the many masters the castle has had over the centuries.

Irbid has thrived thanks to its hugely prestigious university – the acclaimed Yarmouk University – and a whole host of other well-known higher education facilities besides.

Consequently, the vibe here is undeniably lively and youthful, and the folk of this bustling northern city are proud of their forward-thinking, more off-the-wall reputation.

In recent years, theories that this was once the site of one of the ancient Decapoli (one of the great 10 cities in the Roman east) have gained traction too, and there’s plenty of fascinating relics and archaeological evidence to see in the local museum to support them.

Okay, so Zarqa hardly has the totemic archaeological ruins or the awesome historical monuments of the biblical proportions found elsewhere in Jordan, but there’s something else that attracts travelers to this down-to-earth exclave of Amman: a rough, lived-in feel that oozes the modern energy of the Middle East.

Over the years, the town of Zarqa has become subsumed by the growing tendrils of the capital, but it’s also managed to retain its blue-collar character, and there are now oodles of bazaars and markets, interesting little local food shops, teahouses and more to explore between the traffic-crammed alleys.

14. Ma’an

Another of the aged stopovers on the bends of the King’s Highway, Ma’an now straddles the divide between the old and the new.

To the south of the dusty, sun-scorched city in the desert that can be seen today, the remains of a much older settlement can still be found.

It’s thought that these date all the way back to the times of the Nabateans, and Ma’an formed an outpost away from Petra and the capital.

Ma’an also serves as a good stopover in the southern reaches of Jordan; perfect for travelers making their way through to Egypt, Israel and the Red Sea.

Surrounded by endless peaks and troughs of dry-mud hills, peppered with the occasional scraggy scrub and hardy acacia tree, the ancient ruins at Shobak are another spot perfect for the budding history buff traveling to Jordan.

Known – appropriately – as just the Shobak Castle, these great palisades and arched gates of old now stand crumbling and cracking on the edge of the beautiful Dana Reserve.

They aren’t much visited by tourists, but offer a unique insight into the fortification structures of the European crusaders of the 11th and 12th centuries.

Expect winding tunnels and hidden dungeons aplenty.

15 Best Places to Visit in Jordan:

• Mujib Nature Reserve
• Dana Nature Reserve

20 Epic Top Things To Do in Jordan

By Author Paulina

Posted on Published: October 12, 2019  - Last updated: January 25, 2024

A visual guide to the best things to do in Jordan, Middle East

If you’re looking for an awe-inspiring and unforgettable adventure, look no further than Jordan !

This diverse country is packed full of incredible attractions to explore, stunning vistas, rich culture, and some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet.

From the Dead Sea to Petra and beyond, it’s no wonder that Jordan is becoming one of the hottest tourist destinations in the world since there are soooo many things to do in Jordan.

Get ready for a journey unlike any other as we take you through an epic list of top things to do in this amazing country!

Practical Information for travel to Jordan

✈ Book cheap flights to Jordan with  Skyscanner  ✔ Book your tours in Jordan with GetYourGuide ➳ Find the best hotel deals in Jordan with Trivago ❖ Get the best car rental deals with DiscoverCars ☘ The best discounted outdoor gear (outlet) at REI.com ✎ Never leave without travel insurance. I get mine at HeyMondo . It’s easy to set up, cheap, and reliable. $ I withdraw money without hidden fees and avoid exchange rates with Wise ( you’ll get a free card on top ) ⚘ Get a travel guide in order to prepare your trip. I used the Lonely Planet Guide – Jordan

1. Watch the Sunrise in Amman Citadel

Many don’t see the capital of Jordan, Amman as a place that’s worth to be visited. However, the city should be a must on any Jordan itinerary for those who want to explore the less-touristy side of Jordan.

The most important sight of Amman is its Roman citadel from which you’ll enjoy breathtaking views over several neighborhoods of Amman.

The citadel is composed of several impressive historical buildings. All of them are witnesses of Jordan’s rich and multicultural past.

The Roman temple and the Umayyad Palace are only two of the most striking monuments and considered top places to visit in Jordan, Amman.

READ: Things To Do in Amman

I recommend visiting the Amman Citadel in the early morning at sunrise in order to enjoy the wake-up of Jordan’s capital at the chant of the mosques. The Amman citadel was one of my favorite places to visit in Jordan. 

Book here your Amman City Tour

2. Eat a Shawarma in Amman

The food in Jordan is some of the best you can get in the Middle East. There are plenty of dishes to choose from such as mansaf , hummus , kunafa pastry and all the fresh fruit juices you can buy at the food stalls in the streets of Aqaba and Amman.

When in Amman, you can’t leave without having tried mouth-watering shawarma . As a legacy of the Ottoman empire, shawarmas consist of rotating spits of sliced lamb, chicken or beef.

The meat is then served in warm pockets of pita bread and topped with everything from raw onions to za’atar and thick yogurt .

Other things to taste in Amman include falafel and Jordanian coffee. It’s a must and you can’t leave without having done these things to do in Amman Jordan .

Book here your Amman Food Tour

3. Mingle in bustling Amman Downtown

One of my favorite things to do in Amman was strolling to the vibrant downtown of the Jordanian capital.

It’s full of life and there are plenty of shops selling the most curious things and almost everything ranging from food, to gold, antiquities and colorful clothes.

Downtown Amman is composed by the following main streets: Prince Mohammad, King Talal, Quraysh, Al-Salt, Al-Hashemi, and Basman.

When in Amman downtown, you should definitely have a walk to Rainbow Street which is famous for its Bohemian vibe and food stalls. When looking for what to do in Amman Jordan, a walk downtown should definitely be included.

4. Travel to Roman Times in Jerash, North Jordan

Jerash was one of the most surprising things I visited in Jordan. Located in the North of Jordan, Jerash boasts one of the most well-preserved citadels in the Middle-East. Visiting this surprising place was like traveling back to Roman times and like feeling on a movie set of “Gladiator” or “Ben Hur”.

Can you imagine that you can see an almost integrate hippodrome and Forum Romanum ? They figure among the most spectacular things to see in Jordan.

The ruined city is packed with columns, arches, theaters, a magnificent forum, several temples, an authentic Roman street and much more. You can easily spend up to 4 hours (and more!) here.

All of the sights are in an amazing condition and it feels like the Romans just left yesterday. If you are wondering what to see in Jordan, then Jerash is a must!

Book here your day trip from Amman to Jerash

5. Take a Mud Bath in Dead Sea

Visiting the Dead Sea in Jordan without taking a mud bath wouldn’t be a visit to the Dead Sea. Not only do you want to get that funny photo where you are all covered in dark brown mud, but on top, the mud of the Dead Sea, Jordan has plenty of health benefits that you can’t ignore.

Indeed, even the Egyptian queens traveled to the Dead Sea in order to take advantage of the health benefits of the mud. And still, nowadays, it’s considered one of the top things to do in Jordan’s Dead Sea.

READ: Best Things To Do in Dead Sea, Jordan

Nowadays, the mud is sold via coveted Dead Sea beauty products that are shipped throughout the world. But when you’re already in Jordan, a mud bath is a must. However, it shouldn’t exceed 10-15 minutes.

When looking for Jordan top attractions, the Dead Sea should be very high on your list. On top, every time of the year is great to visit Jordan, Dead Sea .

Book here your tour to the Dead Sea

6. Float in Dead Sea

After and before taking a mud bath in the Dead Sea, you should always take a bath in the extremely salty lake.

Not only is it great fun to feel like a floating feather but you can also get one of the most coveted photos for travelers visiting Jordan, Middle East : reading the newspaper in the Dead Sea.

Taking a bath in the Dead Sea is part of any Dead Sea treatment but it shouldn’t take longer than 15 minutes. After putting on the bud, you’ll scrub it away with the salt of the Dead Sea.

Your skin will be as soft as it’s ever been and it’s definitely one of the best things to do in Jordan.

READ: Best Resorts and Hotels in Dead Sea, Jordan

7. Hike in Wadi Mujib

Wadi Mujib is not one of the most known attractions in Jordan. However, this natural sight is one of the reasons why Jordan is one of the most gorgeous places to visit on this planet.

The wadi is an awe-striking canyon that’s 70 km long and that has been shaped by the Mujib river floating into the Dead Sea.

The best way to explore Wadi Mujib is by hiking through the river. You’ll enjoy the unique flora and fauna and come across the Ma’an Hot Springs. There are several trails and all vary according to their difficulty and length. But without any doubt, the area hosts some of the best hiking trails in Jordan .

READ: 20 Photos That Will Make You Want To Visit Jordan

All these hikes need to be booked in advance. If you want to hike through the water, you should visit between April – October. During winter, there is only one trail open.

When looking for off-the-beaten-track Jordan places to visit, you should consider Wadi Mujib.

Book here your guided Wadi Mujib Hike

8. Crusader’s Castle Hopping

If you are wondering what to see in Jordan and you’re looking for something off the beaten track, I recommend hopping to crusader’s castles. Indeed, there are plenty of them in Jordan.

Even if in some cases only ruins of the castles are left, their locations are often strategic and offer fabulous views. The crusaders’ castles were often built in order to guard the important trade routes.

In case you wonder where to go in Jordan for crusader castle hopping:

• Karak – the most famous one and offering breathtaking views
• Shobak – its remote location and strategic position will make you feel like lost in time and space
• Aljoun Castle
• Qasr Al Azraq
• Vaux Moise near Petra
• Al-Habis near Petra

When looking for things to do in Jordan, Crusader’s castles are a great idea!

9. Soak up history and legends at Mount Nebo

The region around the Dead Sea, Jordan is full of breathtaking places that will make you fall in love with Jordan.

One of them is the legendary Mount Nebo. It is not only one of the highest mountains in Jordan, but it is also a place with a unique historic, biblical and symbolic value. It is said that it is from Mount Nebo where Moses saw the “ Promised Land ” for the first time.

From here, you’ll have a breathtaking panorama view and on clear days you can see Jericho in the West Bank and Jerusalem. There are several monuments at Mount Nebo with a large religious importance that can be visited such as Moses Spring, the Church of SS Lot & Procopius and the Moses Memorial Church. These monuments are considered as top Jordan points of interest.

It’s one of the top historical places in Jordan that you shouldn’t miss.

10. Be the First at Petra Treasury

Do you want to feel like the real Indiana Jones for a while? In Jordan, it’s perfectly possible!

Indeed, Petra also known as Pink City was the movie location of Indiana Jones. And who doesn’t remember the epic scene when our hero spots the Treasury for the first time?

Unfortunately, Petra is nowadays one of the most famous places to visit in Jordan. Visit Petra, Jordan basically stands on top of every visitor’s list. This means that you’ll be confronted with tons of people while visiting the historic city of the Nabateans.

In order to get the most intense experience and appreciate the Treasury in its full glory, I recommend being the first to enter the historical complex. I entered at 6am in the morning, it was snowing and freezing but the moment when I stood alone in front of the Treasury will stick with me forever.

Petra is on the top of any list of things to see in Jordan. Most tourists arrive at 8-10 am, thus I recommend booking a hotel in Wadi Musa, the village next to the historic complex.

Book here your Petra Tour

11. Have a scenic tea time in Petra

Some think that Petra is only about one monument: the Treasury! Well no, Petra is actually an entire city consisting of epic, historic monuments, several hiking trails, and restaurants.

I recommend taking at least a full day to explore the city of Petra. The must-see sights are the Treasury, several viewpoints, the monastery, the high place of Sacrifice and the Roman theatre.

If you want to make your visit to Petra unforgettable, I recommend having a tea-time at the highest bar of the Pink City. Follow the path to the High Place of Sacrifice, but instead of turning right, just continue straight ahead and climb up.

You’ll land at a wooden hut where they serve refreshing mint tea in summer and warming sage tea in winter. The bar is located on the plateau of the Pink City, thus you’ll have the town below you and enjoy amazing vistas over the mountains. It’s one of the best places in Jordan for nature and mountain lovers.

During our visit, they were snow-copped, thus it was particularly scenic. From here, you continue the trail and make a round-trip that finishes in front of the Treasury.

Buy here your Petra Tickets and Tours

12. Ride a Camel in Wadi Rum

The desert of Wadi Rum is a must on every Jordan travel itinerary. It’s completely different from all the other landscapes you can enjoy in Jordan.

The Wadi Rum has been a movie set for several legendary movies such as Aladdin, Lawrence of Arabia, the Martian and many more.

If you are, like me, a fan of slow travel, I recommend taking a camel ride. You can either depart from Wadi Rum village or from the Bedouin camp you’re staying at.

You can opt between a sunset or sunrise camel ride during which you’ll be taken to the most scenic spot to enjoy this natural highlight. The colors were so intense and it was pure bliss. When looking for things to do Jordan, a camel ride in Wadi Rum should be on the top of your list!

Book here your Wadi Rum tours

13. Sleep in a Bedouin Camp in Wadi Rum

If I would need to narrow down my trip to Jordan to one single experience that marked me the most, I would probably say the stay in a Bedouin Camp in Wadi Rum.

Of course, you can stay in Wadi Rum village or just visit Wadi Rum with a day trip from Petra or an excursion from Aqaba. However, you’ll miss an extraordinary experience.

The camps are managed by Bedouin families that have been living in the area for many generations. Their hospitality is simply legendary and during your stay, you’ll learn a lot about Bedouin culture.

READ: Things To Do in a Bedouin Camp, Wadi Rum

There are several types of camps in Wadi Rum. Some are very luxurious and can be considered as glamping experiences and others are managed by families that have been living in the desert for many generations and you’ll enjoy a unique insight in their nomadic lifestyle.

14. Take a Hike in Wadi Rum

Wadi Rum is a paradise for outdoor lovers. Whether you enjoy hiking or climbing, there will be something for you, dear nature lover.

People travel from all over the world to climb on the spectacular rocks of Wadi Rum. The landscapes are often just surreal and will let you feel like on planet Mars.

If you don’t want to climb up to the dazzling high rocks of Wadi Rum, I highly recommend opting for a hiking tour in Wadi Rum. There are plenty to choose from and they all vary according to their difficulty and length.

Some of the most popular treks are the “ Makharas Canyon Hike ”, the “ Jebel Rum Round Trip ” or the “ Rakhabat Canyon ”. When looking for unique places to go in Jordan, hiking in Wadi Rum is definitely a great idea!

15. Have a Bedouin Dinner in Wadi Rum

One of the highlights of visiting Wadi Rum is spending time in the main tent of any traditional, authentic Bedouin camp. It’s here where you’ll learn everything about Bedouin culture. That’s why I really recommend engaging conversation with the managing team of the camp…even if there’s WiFi!

A great occasion to live the Bedouin culture to the fullest is during dinner time.

The food is being prepared based upon traditional Bedouin recipes and methods. It’s slow-cooked for two hours under the earth. The chicken will melt in your mouth like butter and I can’t remember when I ate vegetables with such intense flavors.

I also want to make a big shout out to the food served at Wadi Rum Quiet Village. It was the best I’ve eaten on the entire Jordan trip. The guides really took care to explain to us the process in every detail and how the cooking methods changed over time. Book here your stay in Wadi Rum Quiet Village.

Another great experience in a Wadi Rum camp is tea-time. Basically, any time is tea time and thus a great opportunity to connect and learn about the Bedouin lifestyle and history. Gather in the main tent around a warming sage tea in winter (mint tea in summer) and make friendships that will make your stay unforgettable.

It’s definitely one of the best things to do in Jordan.

16. Go Stargazing in Wadi Rum

One of the most romantic things to do Jordan is definitely going on a stargazing tour in Wadi Rum.

Thanks to the extremely low light pollution, the milky way and major star constellations are clearly visible. The majestic rocks and the vast planes that separate them create a unique framing whose atmosphere you won’t forget.

The stargazing tours are often offered by the Bedouin camps but you can also book your tour at the entrance of Wadi Rum village.

17. Go Snorkeling and Diving in Aqaba

Did you know that Jordan is home to one of the best diving sites in the world? Aqaba, located at the shores of the Red Sea, is famous around the globe for its colorful underwater world. When looking for activities in Jordan, snorkeling in the Red Sea is a fabulous idea!

There are plenty of diving sites from which you can explore tanks, ships, and … planes! All of them underwater. However, it’s the gorgeous fauna and flora of the Red Sea that attracts diving aficionados. Let’s name only a few of them: the Hawksbill turtle, the Yellow-mouthed moray, cabbage coral, the Napoleon wrasse, and frogfishes! Many more are waiting for you!

READ: Things To Do in Aqaba

There are plenty of diving clubs located on the shore of the Red Sea in Aqaba Gulf. The choice is yours! For me, the reefs of the Aqaba Gulf were one of the prettiest places to see in Jordan.

18. Enjoy a Night out in Aqaba

Aqaba has this cosmopolitan vibe that is so characterizing for cities with a large port. It seems like the locals of such towns are used to new influences and visitors. That’s why I felt absolutely relaxed while visiting Aqaba. Sometimes, you could think that you’re almost in a European town.

The nights in Aqaba are extremely lively. People gather in the numerous bars and restaurants to celebrate life.

There is also the Souk by the Sea in the main street of Aqaba where you can buy artisan goods made by small, local producers. I loved to stock up here on Jordanian tea, spices, and hand-made jewelry.

If you are wondering what to do in Jordan, a night out in Aqaba is a must!

19. Go Shopping in Aqaba

I guess you didn’t think of Aqaba as a shopping paradise. Well, let me convince you of the opposite!

Not only does Aqaba benefit from special tax regulations which makes food, beverages, and many other items much cheaper than in Amman or the rest of Jordan. But on top, the city boasts a large variety of shops.

Whether you’re looking for traditional souvenirs, international brands, spices, herbs, shoes or jewelry, you’ll find it in Aqaba downtown!

My favorite thing to shop in Aqaba is the sweet pastries though! I recommend hopping from one shop to another and find your favorite Arab pastry. There are plenty of shops with things to buy in Jordan and it will be hard to make a choice. Indulging in sweet Arab pastry is thus one of the best things to do in Jordan.

Some of the most coveted spots for traditional sweets are Abu Gharbiya Sweets and Pistachio Sweets & Café. They are some of the top Jordan tourist places!

20. Get pampered in Aqaba or Dead Sea

If you want to add a luxurious touch to your holiday in Jordan or if you fancy adding some wellness experiences to your one week in Jordan, I recommend taking a look at the fabulous resorts in the Dead Sea and in Aqaba.

Only the best international brands have opened jaw-dropping resorts where you can get pampered and just relax. Whether you opt for a Dead Sea salt and mud massage or an afternoon on the golf court, you can do so in Aqaba or at the Dead Sea.

READ: The Best Dead Sea Resorts in Jordan

It’s thus absolutely worth spending more than only one night at these destinations. On top, they are great bases to explore Jordan tourist attractions by day trips.

If you are more of a luxury traveler, the spectacular resorts of Aqaba and the Dead Sea will be the best places to visit in Jordan for you.

Where to Stay in Jordan: The best Hotels

Jordan Tourist Map and Tourist Spots

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Before You Go: Top Tips for your Trip 

• You’ll snap a ton of photos and I love to take my  GoPro  in order to shoot even in extreme situations. 
• Make sure to wear comfortable  walking shoes  and  hiking sandals  when traveling to warm countries.  Get here the best deals on walking shoes + free shipping
• Sunscreen is key! I always take with me my  eco-friendly sunscreen by Thinksport.
• I always carry a  light rain jacket,  just in case.
• Travel insurance is essential! If you haven’t already obtained travel insurance for your trip, travel protected against all odds with  World Nomads.

To make the most of your Jordan trip, I recommend  Lonely Planet Jordan

Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀

Jordan Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth Jordan travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

Tucked between Israel, Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Syria is Jordan, the true hidden gem of the Middle East.

Jordan offers travelers an exciting mix of old and new with everything from Roman ruins to sprawling desert landscapes to cosmopolitan cities.

The country is also home to tons of truly unique experiences; I mean, where else can you camp in the desert with a Bedouin community, explore an ancient city, and soak in a tropical hot spring?

In short, if you’re ready to go on an action-packed adventure, Jordan is the place to be.

Additionally, hospitality is an important part of Jordanian culture.

In Wadi Rum, Jordan’s most famous desert, you can stay with a Bedouin community and learn all about this nomadic culture. You’ll get a chance to eat delicious food cooked in an underground pit, explore the desert in a truly unique way, and see the night sky like you never have before.

If camping isn’t really your style, there are lots of boutique Jordan hotels and unique accommodations throughout the country like the electricity-free Feynan Ecolodge in the Dana Biosphere Preserve.

You can even arrange to stay with a local family through the Jordan Tourism Board for a truly immersive experience.

One thing you’ll definitely want to consider when planning your trip to Jordan is purchasing a Jordan Pass.

Starting at $99 USD, this ticket gives you entry to 40 of Jordan’s top attractions, including many of the country’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Petra, Wadi Rum, Quesir Amra, and more.

The pass saves you time and money and helps you get around with a free digital Jordan guide.

Plus, if you purchase your pass before your trip and plan to stay for a minimum of three nights in the country, you’ll get your visa fee waived — a huge win for travelers on a budget!

Keep reading to dive into resources that will help you with planning a trip to Jordan in the Middle East.

Note: This ultimate guide to Jordan travel contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Use this Jordan travel map to begin planning your trip to this incredible country!

Click here for an interactive Google Map version of the above graphic.

Jordan Tourism Highlights

The following guides share Jordan highlights & travel experiences that you won’t want to miss!

Having Lunch With A Local Family In Jordan

Unexpected Highlights From My Journey Through Jordan

Adventures In The Middle East: Top Hikes In Jordan

Not Another Historical Petra Article: Hiking In Petra

Smoking Shisha In Jordan

The Dead Sea Like You’ve Never Seen It Before

How To See A Spectacular Desert Sunset In Jordan

Jordan Travel Advice

Plan the perfect trip with these Jordan travel tips !

6 Essential Jordan Travel Tips

5 Amazing Experiential Stays In Jordan

Guide For Experiencing Bedouin Culture In Jordan

Getting To Know The Many Personalities Of Jordan (Unique Jordan Travel Experiences Included!)

Solo Travel In Jordan: The Ultimate Guide (With Map!)

Best Jordan Tours

Explore local culture with an Jordan tour guide through these unique excursions:

• Wadi Mujib Siq Trail Hiking Experience from Amman
• Petra & Wadi Rum from Aqaba
• Private Tour Madaba, Mount Nebo, and Dead Sea Day Trip with Amman Sightseeing from Amman
• Bethany Baptism Jordan River Site and As-Salt City Visit from Amman
• Madaba, Mount Nebo, & the Dead Sea from Amman

Renting A Car In Jordan

Need a rental car for your Jordan trip?

Use Discover Cars to quickly compare your car rental options.

Jordan Hotels

Click here to browse the best Jordan travel hotels!

Prefer self-contained stays?

Click here to check out unique local rentals !

You can also use this map to search for local stays:

Jordan Travel Insurance

It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or with a group on a Jordan tour. When visiting Jordan — or any other country in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your Jordan travel itinerary.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Jordan Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling in Jordan .

Q: What are the best places to visit in Jordan?

One of the biggest highlights of any trip to Jordan is Petra , an ancient desert city rediscovered nearly 200 years ago.

Also known as the “Pink City” or the “Rose City,” Petra features the ruins of gorgeous buildings like a monastery and treasury built into the desert hills that are some of the best-preserved examples of the Hellenic style of architecture.

Petra offers a ton of opportunities for hikers and explorers of all kinds — so much so that many experts recommend spending two days in the city. Stay into the evening to experience the Petra Night Show, where the Siq and Treasury are illuminated by hundreds of candles.

Wadi Rum, or the Valley of the Moon, is also a top attraction for visitors to Jordan.

Once the filming location for the classic film Lawrence of Arabia , this gorgeous sandstone valley is the ultimate Middle Eastern experience. There are plenty of ways to explore Wadi Rum from camel rides to rock climbing to ATV tours.

For the full Wadi Rum experience, you can book a Bedouin camping tour where you can learn more about this nomadic Arab culture. And hit the hay too early — one of the best parts of camping in Wadi Rum is the incredible evening skyscape and you won’t want to miss it!

Of course, no trip to Jordan is complete without a float in the Dead Sea .

Here at the lowest point on Earth, you can enjoy the healing properties of this mineral-rich water or wade into the skin-softening Dead Sea mud at Amman Beach.

If you’re not ready to dip your toes into the water, just enjoy the gorgeous blue water and red mountains that look like a scene out of a painting.

Q: What do I need to know before going to Jordan?

As in many other Middle Eastern destinations, it’s important to be conscious of your wardrobe while traveling in Jordan. There are certain cultural expectations and norms for dress in Jordan for all genders and it’s best to be respectful and dress with these in mind.

Women should generally avoid wearing anything too revealing and stick to loose-fitting clothes. It’s also a good idea to carry a scarf or shawl as many religious sites may expect women to cover their hair or shoulders.

Men should avoid walking around topless and may want to wear long pants, particularly when visiting religious sites.

When traveling through Jordan, you’ll find that taxis are fairly inexpensive compared to other destinations. Taxi drivers may charge tourists double by faking a broken meter, though, so always ask your driver to turn on their meter so you know you’re getting the correct fare.

Also, don’t plan on finding a taxi in the afternoon as this is peak traffic time in Jordan. Taxis are scarce at this time and many drivers will refuse service to avoid traffic.

Jordan’s food is incredible but there are a few things to keep in mind before you go on a culinary tour.

For one, most Jordanian dishes include meat or some kind of animal product. While there are certainly vegetarian options throughout the country, particularly in the cities, the country’s traditional cuisine is not very vegetarian-friendly.

Of course, you can make a meal out of the “mezze” course, which consists of appetizers like salads, dips (like hummus!), and other small snacks.

Be aware, though:

Jordanians also enjoy sharing meals with guests and refusing a food offering is considered rude.

Q: Is it safe to travel to Jordan?

Despite what you may hear on the news, Jordan is one of the safest places to visit in the Middle East. Security is a constant presence throughout the country, particularly in areas popular with tourists.

That said, there are some safety tips to keep in mind when in Jordan:

Jordan shares borders with Syria to the north and Iraq to the northeast. It’s best to avoid these border areas as both countries are experiencing conflicts and violence.

Public demonstrations and protests are also common in Jordan, particularly in the capital of Amman. These protests are generally peaceful but it’s smart to keep an eye on the news to stay aware of any demonstrations and avoid large gatherings if possible.

Female travelers have also faced harassment in taxis in Jordan so it’s best to remain alert when taking a cab in the country.

Beyond these warnings, the general travel safety tips apply here: be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables close and out of view when exploring the area to avoid pickpockets .

Q: Is Jordan cheap or expensive?

Compared to other Middle Eastern destinations, Jordan is quite expensive. Hotel accommodations cost around $100 to $150 USD per night but prices vary depending on the city.

You can find deals in bigger cities with more accommodation options like Amman.

Food prices also vary depending on the destination and style of dining.

Though Jordan has an extensive bus system that’s fairly inexpensive, that’s more or less it when it comes to public transportation. If you’re looking to explore beyond the cities, you may want to consider renting a car.

Q: How many days should you spend in Jordan?

You can see most of Jordan’s major sites and attractions in a week-long trip. This will give you enough time to explore Petra, Wadi Rum, the Dead Sea and Amman.

Many of the must-see sights are easily accessible from Amman, so you can make the capital city your hub for a few days during your trip.

Q: What is the best month to visit Jordan?

Many agree that April is the best month to visit Jordan. The weather is perfect for being outdoors and you’ll have loads of activities to explore!

Q: How long can a tourist stay in Jordan?

Tourists from many countries — like the United States and Canada — can visit Jordan for up to 30 days without engaging in work activities.

Q: Do I need a Jordan travel visa?

Travelers from the United States, Canada, and several other countries do need a visa to visit Jordan, though it can be obtained upon arrival for a fee.

It’s recommended to view your country’s Jordan International Travel Information page for the most up-to-date information on entry and exit rules and Jordan Travel Requirements. You can also contact the Embassy of Jordan.

Q: Where is Jordan?

Jordan is located in the Middle East. It shares land borders with Syria (north), Iraq (east), Saudi Arabia (south/southeast), and Israel and the West Bank (west).

Q: Are credit cards accepted in Jordan?

Credit cards — particularly Visa and Mastercard — are widely accepted around Jordan at larger establishments, though it is always wise to carry some cash for smaller establishments and in case of emergency. Many smaller shops and eateries in Jordan prefer cash.

Q: Can you drink the tap water in Jordan?

The tap water is generally safe to drink in Jordan, though it is always best to double-check with your hotel to be safe.

Q: What is the local currency in Jordan?

The local currency in Jordan is the Jordanian dinar (ينار).

What would you add to this Jordan travel guide?

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Attractions

Umm El Jimal

The Dead Sea

Baptism/ Bethany beyond the Jordan/ Al-Maghtas

Desert Castles

Dana & Feynan

Lady of the mountain

Hill of Elijah

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25 Unforgettable Things to Do in Jordan

Home » Blog » Jordan » 25 Unforgettable Things to Do in Jordan

Full of scenic hikes and ancient wonders, we have put together an epic list of the best things to do in Jordan so you can plan the ultimate itinerary to this exciting Middle Eastern gem. 

Although expansive and diverse, the Middle East holds a tattered reputation due to decades of war and turmoil. What doesn’t make the news headlines for the Middle East are the hospitable locals, rich culture, and mesmerizing natural wonders.

One place to experience just a drop of this sea of intrigue, is the Kingdom of Jordan.

The Heshmite Kingdom of Jordan is bordered by Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Syria, Israel, and the Palestinian West Bank, an area known for it’s history of contention and conflict. From the outside looking in, it’s easy to assume Jordan to hold the same amount of tension and safety concerns, but in fact, it’s quite the opposite.

Throughout history, Jordan has remained stable and untouched by the political climates of the surrounding area, acting as an oasis for visitors coming to this part of the Middle East. From its vibrant capital city or Amman , to some pretty astounding ancient and natural wonders, Jordan is a country worthy of being explored. 

After having my fair share of thrill-seeking adventure, drool-worthy street food, and rich cultural history, I’m ready to dish out all the best things to do in Jordan so you can plan the perfect visit and experience the true essence of this adventure-packed travel destination. 

Article Contents

Best time to visit jordan, things to know before visiting jordan.

• The Jordan Pass
• How to get around

Things to do in Jordan

Though Jordan is truly a destination year round, there are some things to consider when planning your visit. The weather will get swelteringly hot in the summer months, and—contrary to what some may think of the Middle East— it actually gets quite cold and rainy in the wintertime.

The best time to visit Jordan is in late fall or early spring, ideally November or March, outside of peak tourist season and when temperatures are pleasant and rain is (mostly) at bay.

For an in-depth guide on the regional seasons, weather patterns and other factors, check out our complete guide on the best time to visit Jordan .

• Respect the local culture. Jordan is predominantly muslim with 95% of locals practicing the Sunni Islam religion. With this in mind, it’s important to know that Jordanians dress modestly, especially women. Aim to wear loose and breathable clothing that covers your shoulders, legs (below the knee) and chest, and mid section.
• You cannot drink the tap water. A reusable water bottle (bonus points if it’s filtered) will serve you well in Jordan. Bottled water is recommended, but note the country doesn’t have any recycling facilities or initiatives, so all plastic waste goes directly to the trash.
• Jordan is expensive. Although you’ll spend a bit more on a trip to Jordan than other budget-friendly destinations , it’s more than worth it. While it is pricey, you can save a good amount of money by eating local. In restaurants, you can expect to pay anywhere from $20-30 USD per person per meal on the lower end and $2-3 per meal at local food markets and street food stalls. 
• It is quite safe. Jordan is in the heart of a region that has had a long history of conflict, but Jordan remains a safe place to explore, even for solo travelers. Violent crime is rare and out of 135 countries, Jordan was ranked #9 for safety by Gallup’s Law and Order Report .
• Women should mind the male gaze. For women traveling in Jordan, the attention from men may not always feel as warm and welcoming as one would hope. You can expect a lot of stares, and getting honked at isn’t uncommon. It’s best to try to dress conservatively to blend in since wearing western styles will certainly attract unwanted attention. (See my note about safety in our Amman article.)
• Smoking shisha and cigarettes is common. This is a national pastime in Jordan, so expect to smell like smoke after a bit of roaming around. Restaurants and even Uber’s are quite smokey, so keep this in mind.
• Trash and plastic are a prevalent issue. The plastic-free movement hasn’t quite caught wind in Jordan yet, so you’ll notice excessive amounts of plastic used and lots of trash everywhere. Even driving on the side of the road in the middle of nowhere, you’ll likely see plastic caught in bushes and blowing around. See our list of eco-friendly travel products and learn how you can reduce your own plastic waste . 

Hot Tip: The Jordan Pass

Before you arrive in Jordan, you’ll want to know about the Jordan Pass. It’s a digital pass that grants you entry to over 40 tourist locations around Jordan, including Petra, and will waive your visa on arrival fee (around 40 JOD / $56 USD) as long as you qualify and purchase the pass before you enter the country.

This is a great way to save a lot of time and money while you’re in Jordan. We have an entire guide to the Jordan Pass that includes how it can save you a ton of money on your trip to Jordan, how to get it, how to use it once you arrive, and the included attractions you can visit with the pass.

How to get around Jordan

The entire country of Jordan is rather small, considering how much there is to see and do. You can drive the length of the country north to south in a matter of hours (about 6ish if you’re wondering).

There are a few good options for getting around, depending on your travel style and where you want to go.

Traveling by car in Jordan is the easiest way to get from place to place on your own schedule. The roads in Jordan, particularly the Desert and Kings Highways—two routes that connect the country north to south and hit most of the major attractions—are well-kept and easy to navigate. 

Renting a car in Jordan is pretty affordable, especially if you are traveling with a partner or small group to split costs. If you are looking for more information on this, we have an entire guide to getting a rental car in Jordan .

Outside the city of Amman, the traffic is minimal and driving is laidback. However, inside the city, driving gets a bit more chaotic as the traffic is much more of a factor and lanes seem to be more of a suggestion than a rule. 

Another great option for traveling around Jordan is by bus. The JETT bus company connects all of the major cities and travel destinations throughout the country. 

It’s very affordable and actually quite comfortable with air conditioning and power outlets. The best part is you can purchase your tickets online with 12go.Asia . (We love this service and have used it to purchase bus tickets all over Asia and the Middle East.)

Finally, using taxis and rideshare apps like Uber is a safe and easy way to get around each destination. Ubers are readily available in Amman, and you can arrange rides to nearby destinations like Wadi Mujib and the Dead Sea. And taxis operate in all the destinations you’re likely to want to visit in Jordan.  

Other resources to help you plan your trip

• Best Time to Visit Jordan: When to Go & When to Avoid!
• Jordan Pass: What is It & Do You Really Need It?
• How to Get From Amman to Petra
• How to Get From Petra to Wadi Rum
• Tips for Getting a Car Rental in Jordan

If you’re planning a trip to Jordan for your first time, here are our top recommendations for things to do in this adventure-packed country.

1. Take a free walking tour of Amman

If you’re planning a trip to Jordan, don’t skip Amman. 

Yep, you read that right. Most people use the capital city as a jumping off point to visit the better-known highlights of Jordan such as Petra and the Dead Sea, but with so many interesting things to do in Amman , I think it’s worth more than just a stopover. 

Taking a walking tour is one of the first things I like to do in a new city. I’ve taken free walking tours in cities all over the world, and consistently find that they are the best introductions to a new place. 

A walking tour gives you the opportunity to get the lay of the land in a new city, along with anecdotes and personal recommendations from a local. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other travelers. You might even make a new friend or two!

After doing a fair amount of research and coming up short, I was thrilled to find a free walking tour through GuruWalk . I was a bit nervous having never used the site before, but the reviews were fantastic so I took the plunge. 

It ended up being one of my favorite activities in Amman! Our guide, Mujallie, was friendly and super informative, offering up all sorts of little nuggets of history and personal advice about where to go, what to eat, and what to avoid.

2. Take a mud bath

The mineral-rich mud in the Dead Sea is the perfect way to experience its healing qualities. This spa-like ritual is essential on your visit to the Dead Sea because the mud has unique mineral properties that are amazing for your skin. Just one mud bath is said to assist the skin’s detoxification process, draw out excess oil, and firm your skin.

Covering yourself from head to toe in the mud is just as fun as it sounds. Snap a few selfies as you wait for the mud to dry completely before rinsing it off with a soak in the Dead Sea. 

If you’re going for the full Dead Sea ritual, after you soak the mud off, you’ll apply an exfoliating salt scrub made from—you guessed it—the Dead Sea salt. Then the final step is a rinse under a fresh water shower. 

3. Float in the Dead Sea

As you may have gathered, floating in the Dead Sea is a must when visiting Jordan. Extending over 400-miles down the Jordan Rift Valley, and dipping nearly 1,400 feet below sea level, the Dead Sea is one of the best things to do in Jordan for a variety of unique reasons.

Not only is the Dead Sea the lowest point on earth, but due to its hypersalinity (it’s about 9x as salty as the ocean!) you’ll float effortlessly in the water. And although the Dead Sea is known for being inhospitable to plants and animals, its mineral-rich waters and mud attract visitors and locals alike to soak in its healing properties. 

Before you plan your visit, we have a detailed guide to visiting the Dead Sea in Jordan complete with everything you need to know and bring before you go.

4. Visit the Treasury, but don’t stop there!

Known to be the crown jewel of Jordan, visiting Petra is one of the main reasons tourists flock to this country. And let me tell you, it is well worth the journey to one of the Seven New Wonders of the World.

Most tourists in the country come to visit Petra—it’s one of the top things to do in Jordan after all—making it crowded and confusing to navigate. How do you get there? Where do you buy tickets? And what exactly should you try to see inside Petra? That’s where we come in! We’ve put together the ultimate guide to visiting Petra , so you can go beyond the Treasury and take in all this ancient site has to offer. Our guide includes insider tips to help you avoid the crowds and save money, plus the times of day that’ll give you the best lighting for photography.

Tip: If you are starting your trip in the capital city, you’ll want to read our guide on how to get from Amman to Petra to help sort out your travel plans. 

5. Experience Petra at Night

To see the first rays of the morning sun light up the chiseled details of the Treasury is one thing, but experiencing Petra at Night is a whole different experience. You’ll be able to see Petra illuminated by hundreds of small candles, a truly magical experience.

There are a few things to keep in mind before planning your visit, mainly being that the night experience only runs on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, and is a separate ticket from your Petra entrance ticket (and not included in your Jordan Pass). You’ll have to pay an additional 17 JOD for this experience.

You can purchase a ticket at the Petra entrance ticket window, only on the days mentioned above. Show up to purchase your ticket at any time in the evening, or arrange for tickets ahead of time with your hotel. 

The night experience technically runs from 8:30-10:00 p.m., but we were still able to get tickets about a half hour after it was said to start. As long as you make it to the Treasury by 9:15 p.m., you’ll be able to see the show, but they clear everyone out by 10:00 p.m. 

For an experience like this, you definitely want to get some quality photos, which can be difficult given the extremely low lighting. To replicate all the beautiful photos you see on the internet you’ll need a tripod and a professional camera, but any of the newer phone models can get decent shots of the Treasury (as proof we took the photos above with an iPhone 12 and tripod).

Gather up your preferred photography gear and read up on our detailed guide to Petra at Night that you’ll definitely find useful for planning your late night venture.

6. Hike the Siq Trail through Wadi Mujib

One of the most thrilling and exciting adventures you can have in Jordan is hiking through Wadi Mujib canyon. The canyon is part of the Mujib Biosphere Reserve and is cleverly nicknamed “ the Grand Canyon of Jordan ”. 

The Siq Trail takes you through turquoise-colored water that carves steep and impressive canyon walls along the route. Not only is Wadi Mujib a beauty to behold, but the canyon is also a blast to explore. 

The entire trail only takes about one hour each way, and navigating the moving water is half the fun. Embarking on the Siq Trail is something like attempting an adult obstacle course in a natural water park. 

Luckily for you, we’ve created a detailed guide to hiking the Wadi Mujib Canyon , including how to get there without a tour, how much it costs, and what to pack.  

7. Take a cooking class and/or food tour

One of the most interesting aspects of Jordan cuisine is the variety of influences from neighboring countries and regions. You’ll discover that the climate and conditions of Jordan have influenced the food in intriguing ways, with some techniques dating back to ancient times.  

Not only will you learn about traditional Jordanian foods in a cooking class, but you may walk away with recipes you can replicate and to share your experience with friends and family back home. 

Beit Sitti Cooking School comes highly recommended, and if you’re looking for a more personalized experience, this Airbnb cooking experience with Shereen is at the top of our list!

If cooking isn’t your forte, food tours are one of the best outlets to get local knowledge of recipes, ingredients, and history from a different perspective. You’ll enjoy visiting restaurants and street stalls you may not have discovered otherwise and enjoy freshly made foods from the best stops in town.

This Food Crawl or this Street Food Tour would be our top picks. 

8. Eat like a local

Throughout history, Jordan has had a wide variety of influence on its cuisine from North Africa, the Middle East, Persia, and the Mediterranean. Here you’ll find traditional Jordanian dishes as well as dishes that originated elsewhere, but are still very popular in Jordan.

Lamb, rice, olives, bread, olive oil, tahini, garlic, za’atar, onions, pickles, mint, and sage, are just a handful of the flavors you’ll experience as you taste your way through Jordan. Note these staple Jordanian foods while exploring the country and wandering into local eateries:

• Mansaf: Widely considered to be the “national dish” of Jordan, this is one of the most beloved dishes in the kingdom consisting of rice, lamb, and jameeb (a fermented goats milk yogurt).
• Rashouf: In the winter months, Rashouf is one of the ultimate Jordanian comfort foods made with lentils, jameeb, wheat, and sour pickles.
• Hummus: One of the most well-known Middle Eastern foods that’s enjoyed around the world. Garbanzo beans, lemon, tahini, and olive oil combine to make it to the menu of almost every restaurant in Jordan.
• Zarb: This traditional Bedouin dish is made with a mix of meat, generally lamb or chicken, rice, onion, carrots, and are placed in the ground to cook. It’s most commonly enjoyed in the desert.
• Falafel: Word on the street is that Jordan has some of the best falafel in the Middle East. This common street food is a mix of garbanzo beans and spices that are deep fried to crispy perfection.
• Maqluba: This dish is both translated and served upside down. At the bottom is meat or chicken, then the rice is cooked on top with a variety of spices. The pot is flipped over onto a communal plate when served.
• Shawarma: Layers of thinly sliced meat are wrapped in a warm slice of bread with garlic sauce or tahini and pickled vegetables.
• Mezze: Meaning “to taste” this is a variety of small dishes served as an appetizer before the main dish. Dolmas, hummus, falafel, and kubbeh are popular options in mezze.
• Kanafeh: Prepared with a thin pastry called kataifi, kanafeh involves crispy noodle-like wisps of dough soaked in a sweet rosewater syrup and layered with cheese. AND. IT’S. DELICIOUS. 

Tip: Check out the Where to Eat section of our Amman article to find out where you can indulge in all of these local eats!

9. Stay in a bubble hotel or Bedouin camp in the desert

Bedouins are one of the main nomadic tribal groups in Jordan that stretched through the Middle East and into North Africa. Their culture is still very much alive today and one of the best ways to get a feel of the Bedouin lifestyle is by staying in one of their camps in the desert, most popularly in Wadi Rum.

There are over 200 different camps in Wadi Rum ranging from the martian-style bubble hotels to traditional Bedouin tents, so you can choose one that fits your travel style, but Wadi Rum Bedouin Camp and Captains Desert Camp are two great options for the complete Bedouin experience. 

For a more luxurious stay, spending the night in the private bubble hotel in Wadi Rum is one of the quintessential things to do in Jordan. 

Memories Aicha Luxury Camp is one of the most beautiful properties nestled between two dramatic cliff faces. I spent two nights here and had a fantastic experience. While it was a bit of a splurge, the experience was worth it. (Hint: climb up the cliffside behind the camp and you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the desert at sunset!)

Wadi Rum Bubble Luxotel is another place that comes highly recommended, but with an even higher price tag. For those on  a budget who still want the bubble experience, Sun City Camp is a bit more reasonable.  

10. Go on a 4×4 adventure through Wadi Rum

Wadi Rum, also known as the Valley of the Moon, is a picturesque desert valley that the Bedouins have inhabited for almost 12,000 years. Narrow gorges, skyscraper-like rock formations, and natural stone arches were carved into the granite and sandstone over millions of years, creating the largest wadi (or desert) in Jordan. 

Right up there with Petra, visiting Wadi Rum is one of the most unmissable things to do in Jordan.

One of the best ways to see everything Wadi Rum has to offer is on an adventurous 4×4 safari tour. Many tours are around two hours and cover the highlights, but you can book longer tours ranging from half day to a multi-day trips.

If you don’t have the extra time for a multi-day tour, I recommend spending at least one night in Wadi Rum so you can experience the sunrise and sunset in this magical otherworldly place.

Tip: It’s easy to get from Petra to Wadi Rum to add an extra day to your itinerary. 

11. Eat a traditional Zarb dinner

One of the most cherished delicacies of Bedouin culture, Zarb is traditionally prepared with chicken, goat, or sheep, and an array of veggies like carrots, potatoes, tomatoes, and onions. The meats and vegetables are served on large communal plates with rice, salads, and a variety of dips. 

For centuries, their food was cooked in an underground earth oven using stones, but it has since evolved just slightly to create the same flavorful meals but with metal barrels and foil.

With their ancient techniques, you’ll forget all about your cookouts at home once you taste and experience the flavors of a Bedouin barbeque.

12. Go scuba diving in the Red Sea

Nestled right in the southernmost corner of Jordan is Aqaba, a developing port overlooking a 17-mile stretch of coastline along the Red Sea. Scuba divers flock to Aqaba as a base camp to experience the world famous reefs, World War II shipwrecks, and colorful marine life that flourishes in the glittering sea.

There are a variety of different dive shops in Aqaba that can set you up for an amazing day, or days, of exploration. Many of the most popular dive sites run parallel to the shores of Jordan, making access to them pretty easy even for the recreational diver. 

I had a great experience with Deep Blue Dive Center , although the waters in the Red Sea in May were much colder than I was prepared for, and we came on a rare day where the visibility wasn’t great. 

13. Drive the King’s Highway 

The King’s Highway was an ancient trade route that connected Syria to the Gulf of Aqaba, through what is now the Kingdom of Jordan. This trade route dates all the way back to the Old Testament and is one of the oldest communication routes in the world still in use.  

Today, the route connects a variety of popular things to do in Jordan like Madaba, Mount Nebo, Wadi Mujib, Dana Nature Preserve, and even offers a more scenic drive from Amman to Petra . The King’s Highway acts as a gateway from Amman to all the best sights in the south of Jordan, so if you’re renting a car in Jordan , this will inevitably make it onto your itinerary.

When you put directions into your phone or GPS, it’s going to take you on the quickest route, Route 15. So make sure you opt for Route 35 (King’s Highway) instead, south from Amman or north from Aqaba. 

14. Explore the souks

There is no better way to connect with Jordanian locals than by practicing your haggling skills at one of the many souks in Amman. Haggling and bartering form a huge part of Middle Eastern culture, so grab your dinars and make your way through rows of colorful spices, gemstones, textiles, and anything else you can think of.

This is the perfect place to grab a souvenir and support the locals in Jordan. If your bartering skills aren’t sharpened, you can easily spend the day walking around and embracing the bustling energy of shoppers and owners as they banter back and forth.

15. Go for a hammam

After all the adventurous things to do in Jordan, there is no better way to slow things down than with a relaxing hammam experience. These are Turkish baths, that were and still are a prominent feature of the Islamic world. 

Most modern hammams are separated by gender. You’ll begin in a sauna-type room, sprawling out on a heated stone slab to relax and work up a sweat.

From there, a male or female staff member (they will match you with the same gender) will exfoliate and scrub you down from head to toe in a luxurious pillow of suds. It’s a very unique way to experience centuries old culture of this region of the world (and get that squeaky clean feeling!).

Though there are hammams spread across the Middle East, the baths in Jordan are some of the oldest known examples of Islamic bath houses, dating back to the 7th and 8th centuries. 

16. Drink Turkish coffee

Any coffee lover visiting Jordan should visit a local cafe to try a unique spin on traditional coffee. Turkish coffee is set apart from other coffees due to its grinding, roasting, and brewing techniques, and not just the source of the beans.

Water, coffee, and sugar are boiled together in a cezve, or ibrik. As soon as it’s boiled, and just before it foams over, it’s taken off the heat and served in small cups. Unlike many other coffee regions of the world, Turkish coffee is served with the grounds still in the cup, and often made with cardamom and other spices, making it a very unique coffee tasting experience.

Turkish coffee was added to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List in 2013, because of its special significance and techniques used to create the perfect cup. Though its origins are Turkish, the tradition of coffee has served as a symbol of friendship and hospitality for centuries, so it’s one of many ways to connect with the warm and inviting local culture in Jordan.

17. See the ancient mosaics of Madaba

The ancient Mosaics of Madaba will transport you back 1500 years to the height of the Byzantine period. This is the oldest known map in the world and introduces you to the cartography of the Holy Land during biblical times from Egypt all the way to Lebanon. 

Two million pieces of colored stones make up this map that was once lost, only to be rediscovered again in 1896. Today, it is on display in St George’s Greek Orthodox Church in Madaba, just 40 minutes south of Amman.

There are segments of the map that have been chipped away or lost, but the fundamental cities, hills and valleys of the Nile Delta and Jerusalem remain. And it is certainly a sight to behold. 

18. Discover the Roman ruins of Jerash 

Just 45-minutes north of Amman, the city of Jerash is famously known for its Roman ruins. After Petra, the Roman ruins of Jerash are the second most visited archaeological site in Jordan and the most well preserved sites of Roman architecture in the world outside of Italy. 

Ceremonial gates, hilltop temples, spacious public squares, and theaters are only a few of the ruins on display here. Most impressively, archaeologists have excavated the ruins and discovered proof of human occupation of the area for more than 6,500 years, dating back to the Neolithic Age.

You can easily spend half the day exploring Hadrian’s Gate, the temple of Artemis, and admiring the blend of Greco-Roman and Ancient Arab Orient influences. 

19. Visit Umm Qais 

Nestled in the hills above the Jordan Valley, just 2-hours north of Amman, is a diverse array of sights to see in the northwesternmost corner of Jordan. This site was famously known as the ruins of the Decapolis city of Gadara, but today it’s known as Umm Qais, meaning ‘ Mother of Qais ’. 

This site is divided into three main areas: the archaeological site of Gadara, the traditional Umm Qais village, and the modern town of Umm Qais. The variety of influence in this area plays a large part to the drastic juxtaposition you’ll see between an abandoned Ottoman-era village and ancient Roman ruins. 

Not only are the sites within Umm Qais unique, but its geographical location is equally as impressive. Because it sits on hill with an amazing vantage point , you’ll be able to see views over the Jordan River Valley encompassing Jordan, Syria, and the Israeli and Palestinian territorties in the north. 

20. Stay at the Feynan Eco-Lodge in Dana Biosphere Reserve

After visits through wadis and the vast desert landscape, you wouldn’t expect Jordan to have any form of nature reserve. However, the Dana Nature Reserve is about the size of Malta, and it’s one of the most important archaeological sites in Southern Jordan.

Home to rich biodiversity, history, natural beauty, and over 100 archaeological sites, it will take more than just a day trip to explore one of the best kept secrets in Jordan. And what better way to end your days immersing yourself in nature than at one of the top 25 ecolodges in the world, as hailed by National Geographic Traveler Magazine .

The Feynan Eco-Lodge is tucked away in Wadi Feynan, lit by hundreds of candles, solar-powered, and the perfect way to step away from crowds and indulge in local culture. Unfortunately, I didn’t get the chance to stay here on my trip to Jordan, but the sustainability factor was what really drew me in to this amazing stay in the heart of the reserve. 

So if you get the chance to experience this, you’ll have to let us know how it was!

21. Soak in the Ma’in hot springs

Local Jordanians have flocked to the mineral rich waters of Ma’in hot springs for centuries. With lush palm trees and dramatic travertine cliff sides, it’s easy to see how this lush canyon paradise became so popular among the vast, desert landscapes surrounding it.

Because the sixteen pools are located along a large fault and experience lava fissures frequently, the water in the hot springs is some of the hottest in Jordan, with temperatures staying between 140 – 180°F (60 – 82°C).  

To experience a more tranquil soak in Ma’in, consider staying at the Ma’in Hot Springs Resort, built right along the cascading waterfalls that fill the pools. Otherwise, this is a great stop to make before or after visiting the Dead Sea since it’s close by.

22. Climb Mount Nebo

Along the Abarim mountain range is one of the many sites rich with religious significance in Jordan, Mount Nebo. At over 2,000 feet above sea level, this peak is noted in the bible as being the place where Moses saw the promised land before his death at age 120.

The Book of Deuteronomy notes that Moses died on Mount Nebo and was buried in Moab shortly after. Nearing the fourth century, Egyptian monks built a small monastery on the mountain in memory of Moses that was later reconstructed into a basilica that still stands today. 

During a visit to Mount Nebo, you are able to enter the basilica and marvel at a fascinating collection of Byzantine mosaics and a number of other mosaics dating back to 530.  

Another feature of the mountain is the Brazen Serpent sculpture that has become the official symbol of Mount Nebo. After Moses built the brazen serpent to save people from the plague, it was said that one glimpse of the serpent would protect you from the deadly plaque. 

From the top, gaze at expansive views over the Jordan River Valley, Dead Sea, and the city of Jericho, Bethlehem. And on clear days, you can even spot Jerusalem in Israel. 

23. Hike through Wadi Numeira

Near the southern shores of the Dead Sea is one of many picturesque slot canyons in Jordan, Wadi Numeira. It is commonly nicknamed “Petra with water” or “Water Petra” by the local Bedouins. 

While there are numerous other slot canyons to explore in Jordan, more famously Wadi Mujib, you can explore Wadi Numeira independently without a guide, leave a lot of other tourists behind, and see remnants of the Bronze Age.

Along this 3.8-mile trail, you’ll start in one of the many springs flowing from Karak, see the popular hanging rock wedged between two cliffs, and enjoy the views hiking through narrow passages of carved sandstone. 

24. Hike the Wadi Ghuweir Trail

If there is one main takeaway from this list of the best things to do in Jordan, it’s to not neglect the wadis on your Jordan itinerary, especially one as picturesque as Wadi Ghuweir. This is the longest river valley in Jordan, stretching over 17-miles and filled with Jordan’s unique micro diverse landscapes.

This trail cannot be completed, or attempted, without a guide, so make sure you book a tour in advance to access this area safely. The hike can be divided into three main sections, each named differently by locals due to their difference in appearance. 

Wadi Ghuweir is the first portion of the trail where you’ll start in the valley and follow where the water descends into the canyon. You won’t be hiking in water for the entire portion, but expect to get wet. The next part of the trail is Wadi Al-Nakheel, meaning the valley of palm trees. You’ll follow magnificent canyon walls covered in green ferns and palm trees.

The final portion of the trail is Wadi Ushayqir, which is named for its beige, gray, and black stones. As you hike out of the wadi , the water will disappear, and the landscapes will open up to the beautiful Feynan Region.

The Wadi Ghuweir Trail, among many others, crown Dana as one of the most well-kept secrets of Jordan. Truly a hikers paradise, explore this place now and enjoy the solitude and unparalleled experience of this scenic wadi .

25. Visit the baptismal site of Jesus on the Jordan River

This baptism site, most commonly known as “Bethany beyond the Jordan,” is one of the most historically significant things to do in Jordan, regardless of religious belief. In 2015, this site was inscribed on the World Heritage List for Outstanding Universal Value as this is the place where Jesus was said to be baptized and Christianity began.

The actual baptsmal site is now dried up, since the course of the Jordan River has since diverted, but your guide will show you both the original site, and where the Jordan River flows currently. 

The tours to the site will talk briefly about the meaning of “Beyond the Jordan” as well as the land disputes between Jordan, Israel, and Palestine. So a visit to Bethany Beyond the Jordan packs a lot of interesting historical topics into one tour.

It’s important to note that a tour is required to visit this site. The tours run on the hour, and the guide will pick you up from the booth and take you to a handful of stops before arriving at the river. This can be a very interesting stop on anyone’s Jordan itinerary, but we totally understand if it’s not your cup of tea.

Are you planning a trip to Jordan?

We have lots of resources on travel in Jordan and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Jordan Travel Homepage  for everything you need to know, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• How to Visit Petra Like a Pro: Beyond the Treasury
• Fun Things to Do in Amman, Jordan
• Guide to Hiking Wadi Mujib Canyon in Jordan

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15 Best Things to Do in Jordan

By Tara Coughlin · Last updated on May 4, 2024

A contrasting mix of jaw-dropping landscapes, ancient ruins, and seaside escapes, Jordan will steal your heart from the second you set foot in this breathtaking nation. This relatively small country is packed full of history and adventure. Even if you have several weeks to explore Jordan’s tourist attractions, you’ll barely scratch the surface of what it has to offer.

From ancient Roman theaters to crumbling Crusader castles, Jordan has centuries worth of history to explore. Outdoor enthusiasts will also be overwhelmed by the sheer number of adventurous things to do in Jordan, whether it’s diving the Red Sea or trekking through the desert. Guaranteed to delight all types of travelers, Jordan is one country you need to add to your bucket list.

15. Dana Nature Reserve

Explore Jordan’s diverse landscapes with a trip to the Dana Nature Reserve. Starting at the historic Dana Village, the nature reserve spans across the Qadisiyah plateau into the Wadi Araba desert, crossing four different bio-geographical zones.

The Dana Nature Reserve is also home to the most diverse plant life in the country, with over 700 species in total. You can also find a number of rare mammals and birds, including the Nubian ibex, the caracal, and also the Syrian serin. The nature reserve is best explored on foot through one of the many hiking trails.

14. Ma’in Hot Springs

Located in between Madaba and the Dead Sea, the Ma’in Hot Springs is the perfect escape after a long day of sightseeing. Immerse yourself in the healing waters of the springs with the picture-perfect Ma’in Mountains as your backdrop. You’ll also have stunning views of the beautiful Ma’in waterfalls that cascade down the sides of the mountain cliffs.

There are over 63 springs in total, each one different in shape, size, and temperature. While some springs are a boiling 145 degrees, most of them hover around 95 degrees, which is ideal for a soothing soak. The waters are believed to have healing properties and are used as treatments for skin and circulatory diseases, as well as joint and muscular problems.

13. Wadi Mujib

Affectionately nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of Jordan,” the Wadi Mujib is more than just a spectacular landscape. This remarkable landmark is also believed to be the historical site of Arnon Valley, which once separated the Amorites from the Moabites.

The river that runs through the canyon empties into the Dead Sea and offers visitors a variety of outdoor experiences. The most popular activity is hiking through the Siq Trail. This strenuous 2.5-hour trek is best done with a guide and takes you bouldering across the rocks and navigating through the river and waterfalls.

12. Ajloun Castle

Perched on top of the Auf Mountains, Ajloun Castle looms over the sprawling Jordan Valley. This expansive fortress was built in the late 1100s as a way to defend against the Crusaders. Since then, it was partially destroyed by Mongol invaders and even two earthquakes in 1837 and 1927.

However, it’s still possible to tour the Ajloun Castle and see many of the rooms and features that have survived. You can climb up the watchtower, explore the castle walls, and even visit the on-site museum.

11. Roman Theater (Amman)

The grand Roman Theater in Amman is one of the most iconic Roman structures, not just in Jordan, but in the world. Built in the early 2nd-century, the theater has three tiers and is able to hold over 6000 spectators.

Over the past few years, major reconstruction was done on the theater to update and modernize its foundation. For this reason, it’s no longer a true representation of what the theater once was almost 2,000 years ago. However, it’s now used for cultural events and concerts, including the biannual Al-Balad Music Festival.

10. Madaba Mosaic Map

Take a peek inside the Church of Saint George in Madaba and feast your eyes upon the ancient Madaba Mosaic Map. This map is the oldest known floor mosaic in history, dating back over 1,500 years. It depicts the Middle East, including the area between Lebanon and Egypt, including the Dead Sea and the Moab Desert.

However, the most notable feature of the map is its detailed representation of Jerusalem. Not only can you see the outline of the old city, but you’ll also be able to spot recognizable buildings like the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the Damascus Gate.

9. Umm Qais

Take a step back in history and explore the preserved ruins of an ancient Decapolis city. Umm Qais was once called Gadara, which was one of the main Greek and Roman cultural cities during the rise of the Roman Empire. As you walk through the almost 2,000-year-old city, you’ll find ruins of shops, homes, temples, and even a theater.

Besides visiting the ruins, you can also enjoy sweeping views of the Sea of Galilee and the Yarmouk River Gorge. On clear days, you can also spot Golan Heights in Syria and Tiberias in Israel.

8. Scuba Diving in Aqaba

Despite having a small coastline, Jordan remains one of the best places for scuba diving in the Middle East. Located on the Gulf of Aqaba near the tip of the Red Sea, Aqaba has over 25 different dive spots. The colorful coral reefs and translucently clear waters are ideal for divers of all skill levels.

You’ll find a variety of marine life lurking beneath the waves of the ocean. Although you can encounter turtles, rays, and sharks, Aqaba is actually known for its smaller creatures. Frogfish, nudibranchs, and shrimp are just a few things you’ll see on your dive.

7. Desert Castles

Standing in the middle of the dry, dusty desert are a few of Jodan’s most spectacular architectural achievements. These desert castles are some of the earliest examples of Islamic art and architecture, many of which date back to the 7th-century. They are not real castles but were most likely used for trade centers or resting outposts.

Two of the most renowned castles are the Qasr Kharana and Qusayr Amra. Inside, you’ll be able to walk through the rooms and marvel at the preserved mosaics and frescoes that adorn the walls of the castles.

6. Mount Nebo

Retrace the footsteps of Moses while enjoying a panoramic view from the summit of Mount Nebo. This historically significant site is described in the Hebrew Bible as the place where Moses first viewed the promised land. With sweeping views of the Dead Sea, Jordan River valley, as well as Jericho and Bethlehem, Mount Nebo is one of the biggest pilgrimage sites in all of Jordan.

On the top of the mountain, you’ll find a stone that marks the entrance to Mount Nebo. It’s also a memorial tribute to Moses, whom many believe was also buried on the mountain.

5. Amman Citadel

Located in the heart of Jordan’s capital, the Amman Citadel has withstood the test of time. Pottery and other artifacts have been found from the Bronze Age, although most of the citadel’s significance is after 1200 BC.

Nestled on the highest hill overlooking the city, the Amman Citadel is home to many different buildings from the Roman, Byzantine and Umayyad periods. The most striking is the Temple of Hercules. A white, stone hand of Hercules is located nearby and is the only remaining piece of what’s left from his 40-foot statue.

4. Dead Sea

No trip to Jordan would be complete with a dip in the Dead Sea. Known for its mineral-rich salt water and mud, the Dead Sea attracts travelers from all over the world. Treat yourself to a nutrient mud bath or spend the day floating in the water.

Amman Beach is also a great destination for a day of sunbathing and relaxing. Although not as secluded as it once was, the Dead Sea is still a worthwhile visit during your trip to Jordan.

3. Jerash Ruins

Jordan is home to dozens of ancient Roman sites, but the Jerash Ruins are easily considered to be the most impressive. Its imposing city walls, tiered theaters, and towering columns are some of the best-preserved ruins outside Italy and offer a rare glimpse into a world dating back over 2,000 years.

Notable buildings include Hadrian’s Arch, the Temple of Zeus, and the Temple of Artemis. However, the highlight of the Jerash Ruins is the unusual oval forum, which is lined with 56 Roman columns.

2. Wadi Rum

The mountainous desert of Wadi Rum is known for its bright red sand, distinct jagged arches, and, most importantly, its isolation from the rest of modern civilization. Also known as the Valley of the Moon, Wadi Rum feels more like a different planet than anything else.

Make the most of your journey with a 4×4 tour of the different rock formations. You can also explore the desert on a camel, which offers a unique yet authentic insight into nomadic Bedouin life.

Petra is the star attraction of Jordan, and for a good reason. Carved into the sandstone cliffs, this ancient city of temples and tombs have been around since 300 BC. The city was destroyed after the Roman rule and sat abandoned for centuries until its discovery in 1812.

The Treasury is Petra’s most visited site. Carved into the side of the rock face, this ornate Greek-style temple is nestled between the narrow canyon walls and dry river beds. It was originally built as the tomb for the Nabataean King Aretas III. After marveling at the Treasury, continue your journey to the Siq gorge, the Street of Facades, and the Royal Tombs.

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• 50 Places to Visit in Jordan

Tourist Places in Jordan

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This is a breathtaking desert landscape known for its sandstone mountains and rich rock formation. It was featured as the backdrop in David Lean’s movie Lawrence of Arabia. This unspoiled wonder is also known as “The Valley of the Moon” because of its otherworldly views. Tourists especially visit here to view the dramatic sunset after having an adventurous off-road drive through the desert. There is also an option to spend a night in a tent here that will give a nomadic Bedouin feel.  Famous for: viewing the sunset, adventurous off-road trip

This is one of the best places to visit in Jordan, where both international, as well as the local tourists, come here to seek its mineral-rich mud that is known for its therapeutic properties. You’ll be amazed to know that this mud is also used while making cosmetics, and it is sold at huge prices due to its vivid benefits. The Dead Sea is located at the lowest part of dry land and is popular for its salty water. Strolling on the salt-crusted coast of this sea and playing with its buoyant water is an experience that the tourists cherish throughout their life.

Ajloun Castle

This historic castle is one of the most famous Jordan tourist attractions. It sits atop Mount Auf and was built by the nephew of Muslim military leader Saladin, mainly as a strategic link in the defence against the Crusaders. This castle offers the visitors an astonishing view of the Jordan Valley and its surrounding desert area. Its bewitching construction and design gives insights into Jordan’s historic essence. As you go inside, witness the glorious mosaics and historic armory in the museum here.  Famous for: museum, commercial trade routes

Karak Castle

This is yet another popular sightseeing place in Jordan that is a brilliant example of the finest military architecture. It was built in the mid 12th century AD and it lies at 1,300 meters elevation level from the ground. This castle is hailed as one of the largest castles in Jordan with immense fortifications,  dungeons,  dark chambers, and arched-roof stables to explore. It also has a museum inside its building that brings to life the struggles between sultan Saladin and the Crusaders. This castle is also extremely renowned for the carved inscriptions by the Mamluk soldiers.

Dana Nature Reserve

This is the largest nature reserve in Jordan that covers around 320 square kilometer of Wadis and spectacular mountains along the Great Rift Valley. It extends from the lowland desert of Wadi Araba to the topmost peak of the Wadi valley. It is home to a wide range of animals and plant species, and both non-guided and guided trails are present over here to assist you in your trip. It is also known for its stunning landscape that puts the visitors in complete amazement.  The distinct natural communities also live here in complete peace and tranquillity. This makes Dana Nature Reserve one of the best places to visit in Jordan.

The Gulf Of Aqaba

Gulf of Alba is the only seaport of Jordan that is booming as a major center of export for shells and phosphates. It also houses the Aqaba Flagpole, which is the third-largest in the entire world. This is the ultimate chill-out destination for tourists with picturesque mountains and azure blue water in the backdrop. It is considered to be one of the most photogenic spots in Jordan, where the tourists flock in huge numbers to capture beautiful memories in its serene environment. You can also try a number of thrilling water sports activities over here like jet-skiing, snorkeling, and boat trips.  Famous for: water sports activities like jet-skiing, snorkeling, and fishing

Wadi Bin Hammad

This is one of the most enthralling sightseeing places in Jordan with lush palm trees and hanging gardens. You can witness over here the natural beauty of Jordan as it is flushed with lush green trees and gorgeous streams. It is flanked with several impressive hikes where both beginners as well as experienced hikers, can test their hiking skills. You can reach the hike’s starting point by hired cabs and public transport.  Location: Kerak, Jordan Entry Fees: 5 JOD for the access,  10 JOD to climb down the waterfall Famous for: Hiking and sightseeing

This is a beautiful town that has sprung up near Petra and is known to be an assemblage of restaurants, shops, hotels, and houses. Wadi Musa is also known as the “New Wonder Of The World” as it has emerged as an unexplored destination that is full of fun and life with endless cafes, pubs, and shops. People especially love to take a Turkish bath in the spas here that offer ultimate rejuvenation. You can also explore here the sandstone canyon and marvel at the breathtaking tombs and facades.  Famous for: Obelisk tomb, Streets of Façade, The Treasury

Desert Castles

If you’re in Jordan, then visiting the desert castles should be the topmost priority in your list. This is one of the most renowned historical places in Jordan that you must visit. These castles form an important part of Umayyad Desert Castles that were built by the rulers of the Umayyad Dynasty. These desert castles are a magnificent example of early Islamic architecture and stand as a testament to the fascinating history of this country. They used to serve as caravan stations, and trade center units in the earlier times. Their fine frescoes, mosaics, stucco carvings, and illustrations are inspired by the  Greco – Roman and Persian traditions. Qasr Hallabat, Qasr Kharana, Qasr Tuba and Qusair Amra are a few desert castles that you must visit in Jordan . Famous for: Qasr Hallabat, Qasr Kharana, Qasr Tuba and Qusair Amra desert castle

Ruins at Umm Qais

This is one of the most popular historical places in Jordan flushed with awe-inspiring amphitheaters and pedestals. This town, located in northern Jordan, is known principally for its close proximity to the ruins of ancient Gadara. These ruins mark the period from the Ottomans to the Roman rulers and offer a breathtaking view of the Golan Heights, which is the tallest structure over here. The ruins also include a colonnaded street, a theatre, temples, Roman shops, and houses. Also, the main road here houses the basalt pillars and beautiful tombs. Famous for: colonnaded street, theatres, temples, Roman shops, and beautiful tombs

Shaumari Wildlife Reserve

This is a natural reserve that is touted as one of the best tourist places in Jordan . It serves as a home to the endangered species of animals that live in the desert wadis. It was established in the year 1975 as a breeding center for locally extinct species. This 22 square kilometer reserve is the best place to learn about the desert habitats and offers a protected environment to some of the rarest animal species. Shaumari's breeding enclosure also offers a small zoo to the visitors where you can spot various species of animals and birds. The visitors center has also been set up here to provide all the essential information to them about nature and wildlife.

The King’s Highway

This is the most popular trade route in Jordan that connects the Gulf of Aqaba to Syria. The King’s Highway dates back to 3000 years, and it runs between Desert Highway and the Dead Sea Highway down the central highland of Jordan. This ancient roadway is flanked with the natural wonders of the country which makes it one of the best tourist places in Jordan. You can also have a glimpse of the most astonishing historical sites over here. This scenic route is littered with speed bumps, and sometimes they can come out of nowhere. So it’s advisable to drive at a controlled speed on this roadway. You can also find several hotels and bathrooms along your way that are well maintained and totally hygienic.

Magnificently set amongst the fold of the hills arising from Jordan valley, Pella is one of the oldest Decapolis cities in Jordan. It is the favorite of the archeologists because of its exceptionally rich antiquities. Also known as Tabaqit Fahl, it is hailed as one of the best tourist places in Jordan . You will have to walk a lot here to get used to the sheer size of this ancient city. The main attractions here are the ruins of a fountain house, a theatre, and a few Roman baths. You can even explore the Islamic quarter ruins with a mosque and a courtyard. Pella is easily accessible from the capital city Amman and also the nearby city of Ibrid. Located above Jordan Valley, Pella provides an amazing view, especially during spring. i'm not sure with this information  Famous for: Archaeological ruins, Jordan valley view

Azraq Wetland Reserve

This is one of the best places to visit in Jordan for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers. It was created in 1978 for the preservation of the land and the protection of migratory birds in this area. You can also find here the ancient ruins of the Umayyad Aqueduct, which gives a glimpse of the rich history of this place. A small museum is also located on the premises of this sanctuary, which gives information regarding the thriving past of the wetlands in this area. This reserve not only aims to protect the environment and animals, but it also aims to educate the visitors about the implication of human interaction on nature . Famous for: Bird-watching, viewing the sunset.

The Baptism Site of Jesus Christ

This is one of the most popular tourist places in Jordan, where John the Baptist gave baptism to Jesus Christ, reviving the soul of the believers of Christianity and turning Jordan River into holy water. It is a popular pilgrimage site ever since a church was built here by the Byzantines in the 5th century .  You can see here the scattered ruins of churches, chapels, and monasteries. Several modern churches have also been built over here that belong to different traditions of the Christians. The nearby shrines and churches also attract the tourists here.

Ma’in Hot Springs

Ma’in Hot Springs consists of a series of waterfalls and mineral springs located between the Dead Sea and Madaba. These springs are located around 246 m below sea level and are considered to be one of the breathtaking desert oases in the entire world.   Thousands of visitors come here each year to enjoy the mineral-rich water of these thermal waterfalls. These falls primarily originate from the winter rainfall in the highlands of Jordan and feed around 63 cold and hot springs in this valley. Located in this fascinating spot is a giant hotel that offers professional services like shower and hydro jet bath , mud facial, and underwater massage to the tourists.  Famous for: thermal waterfall, Ma’in Hotel Spring

Places to Visit in Petra

Ad-Deir is one of the best Jordan tourist attractions where tourists gather in huge numbers every year to witness the beauty of this monumental building that was carved out of stone in the ancient era. This huge monument is 40.2 meters wide, and it is lit only through the light coming from the doorway. You’ll be completely amazed to see how well preserved this place is without a hint of damage to the monument. You can also enjoy the scrumptious delicacies and can engage in a great sightseeing experience here. For an extra dose of adventure, you can even hike to the Al-Deir Monastery that is a splendid place to visit in Petra. Location:  Ad-Deir, Jordan

This is yet another splendid attraction in Petra, often hailed as one of the best places to visit in Jordan . It was declared as a World Heritage Site in 1985 because of being the treasure spot of the most beautiful temples and monuments. It is also known as Treasury and you can find here the twin statues of Pollux and Greek demigods Castor located in the front area. It was also depicted in the movie Indiana Jones and the last crusade as a battlefield .  Location:  Al-Khazneh, Petra, Jordan Famous for: monuments, temples

This is one of the most popular places to visit in Jordan , and its mystical corridor leads the visitors to Petra. It was formed due to the breaking of the mountain due to tectonic forces. The visitors love to walk through this corridor where the high walls tower over their heads, and the burst of fresh air soothes the senses. It starts from the Dam and ends on the opposite side of the huge vault that is flanked by enormous cliffs. The walk through this corridor is extremely exciting not only because of the historical treasures that you unveil during your walk but also the unique geological landscapes that you witness at each point.

Great Temple

This is a beautiful monumental complex that was built by Aretas IV, who was the king of Nabataean. The eclectic architecture of this temple attracts thousands of tourists every year towards it and that certainly makes it one of the best places to visit in Jordan . The use of frescos, elephant heads, and white marbles are quite evident in the sculptures of this temple. It also boasts of having the biggest façade with the beautiful hexagonal pavement. A theatre has also been built over here to facilitate the seating of around 600 people. This temple underwent reconfiguration in the first century, and now the staircase of the temple has been blocked due to a severe earthquake. Famous for: theatre, sightseeing

Royal Tombs

This impressive burial spot is one of the most charming places in Petra with lush greenery and a magical spectacle of nature. It was originally the burial ground of Nabatean King Malichus II, but later this palace was converted into a church and then into a magnificent tomb. This place lost its charm completely during the medieval time due to erosion, but now it has been reconstructed and stands tall to the testament of time. It comprises stone chambers and vaulted roofs. You need to climb through several stairs to reach this spot as it is built on the mountainside. For all the adventure seekers and strong-hearted souls, this is one of the best places to visit in Jordan.

Qasr al-Bint

If you’re looking for one of the most magnificent temples to visit in Petra, then Qasr al-Bint should be a definite stop for you. It is a 23-meter tall structure that was excavated and restored in the late fifties by the British School of Archaeology and now continued by the Department of Antiquities of Jordan. This temple, surrounded by an enclosure wall and a peribolos, was built by the Nabataeans in 30 BCE. The northern facade of the temple is atetrastyle-in-antis and then connected to a magnificent marble stairway. The temple was dedicated to Dhu-Shara and his virgin mother al-Udda-Aphrodite In the central chapel, and the greek inscriptions and idols inside confirm the same. Location:  Qasr al-Bint, Petra, Jordan

Petra Museum

Are you intrigued to know about the rich history and culture of Petra? If yes, then the Petra museum will give you a chance to trace its root as you can find the greatest splendors of the past well preserved here. This is one of the most popular tourist places in Jordan. It has over 250 artifacts that showcase the history of this city and portray the life of the Nabataean that ruled Petra during the past. You can also find Nabataean coins, Nabataean potter, and elephant capitals on display over here, which makes it one of the best places to visit in Jordan. Location: Tourism St., Petra - Wadi Musa Jordan

Places to Visit in Amman

Roman theater.

This is the main highlight of Amman that was constructed in the 2nd century by cutting the northern edge of a hill. For the same, it is considered to be one of the best places to visit in Jordan . It is an extremely humongous amphitheater with a seating capacity of around 6000 people at one time. When the concerts or other stage shows are organized here, the theatre gets completely jam-packed with both local as well as international tourists. It underwent restoration in 1957, and now is in very good condition.  This theatre also serves as an impressive reminder of Roman Philadelphia. It will completely change your experience of visiting a theatre with a plasma sized screen and a huge seating arrangement. Location:  Taha Al Hashemi, Amman, Jordan

Amman Citadel

This citadel houses the ancient structures and architectural ruins that have been well preserved to make people aware of the history and culture of Amman. You can also find the ruins of the Temple of Hercules over here. Another striking sight here is the Umayyad palace that was constructed in the 8th century, and now it is in a completely ruined state. It also houses a Byzantine Church that dates back to around 5 th century AD and a National Archaeological Museum that houses an interesting collection of artifacts from the different eras of Jordan.  Location: K. Ali Bin Al-Hussein St. 146, Amman, Jordan Entry Fees: 0.25 JD for locals & 3 JD for foreigners

King Abdullah I Mosque

Touted as one of the most beautiful spots to visit in Amman, King Abdullah I Mosque is a splendid example of Islamic design. It was built between the period of 1982 and 1986 by King Hussein as his grandfather’s memorial. It has a magnificent blue dome under which more than 3,000 devotees can pray together. Today this mosque primarily serves as an art gallery where you can witness the incredible collection of pottery artifacts and the stunning pictures of King Abdullah I of Jordan. This is one of the most captivating attractions in Jordan that is often frequented by tourists.  Location:  Amman, Jordan

Qasr Al-Abd

Do you wish to step back into the royal era and spend a beautiful evening in a royal palace? If yes, then visit Qasr Al-Abd which is a Hellenistic palace packed with utmost luxury and extravagance. It is an architectural marvel that was built during the period of 182 and 175 BC. It lies in the middle of a serene lake, and in order to reach this spot, you’ll have to cross the dam and overgrown shrubs that lie on the roadside. The magnificence of this place is truly splendid, and it will make you feel like a prince and a princess. Address:  Near the village of Iraq al-Amir, Amman, Jordan

Jordan Archaeological Museum

If you’re interested in knowing about the rich history of Amman, then this museum will offer you the best knowledge about this small city that has witnessed great battles and natural disasters in the past. It displays extremely rustic Ain Ghazal statues that are believed to be the oldest statue of humans in the entire world. This museum was designed by British architect Austen Harrison who is known for his refined artistic skills. It is a must-visit for the people who wish to know more about the history and culture of Amman. Location:  The Jordan Museum? Ali Ben Abi Taleb St., Amman, Jordan Entry fees: 2 JD for foreigners and free for locals

Jordan National Gallery

If you’re the lover of contemporary art, then Jordan National Gallery should be a must-visit in your list. This is one of the best art museums located in the heart of the Middle East that recognizes the hard work and talents of the artists.  It includes a rich collection of the modern art of the budding as well as experienced painters and artists. It was established by the Royal Society of Fine Arts in the year 1980. The gallery is known for comprising over 2000 works of the most notable artists from around 50 countries.  Location: Amman, Jordan Entry Fee:  JOD 5

Royal Automobile Museum

This museum has been built to commemorate the huge interest of King Hussein in cars. It is an absolute haven for car enthusiasts and features a royal collection of King Hussain’s luxurious cars that he started receiving from 1916. It also has a huge collection of modern sports cars, and people especially gather over here to see the Rover that is used in popular Hollywood films. This is a giant storehouse of automobiles, and it displays more than seventy motorbikes and classic cars. Location: Amman, Jordan Entry Fees: 3 JD

Temple of Hercules

This beautiful temple is located at Citadel Hill’s peak, and it offers visitors a panoramic view of Amman. The most striking thing about this temple is that it has a giant mysterious hand of Hercules’s massive statue. This temple was built under the government of  Geminius Marcianus. Many statues of Hercules were destroyed over here during a battle in the past, and now you can find only one giant statue standing. If you want to know more about the past of Amman, then this temple should be the best place to stop by.  Location:  Museum St 132, Amman, Jordan

Places to Visit in Aqaba

Sharif hussein bin ali mosque.

This is one of the best tourist places in Jordan, where a large number of devotees flock in for a divine experience. It displays the most striking pieces of architecture and stands unique due to the luster and whiteness in the stones that have been inscribed on the walls. The mosque was named after the Sharif of Mecca Hussein bin Ali from 1908 until 1917. This is the most important place of worship in Aqaba, and it consists of beautiful minarets and a huge number of graceful arches.  Location: Al-Malik Husayn, Aqaba, Jordan Entry fees: Free

Aqaba Fortress

The Aqaba Fortress is also known as Mamluk Castle, and it was built in the 12th century. It offers a glimpse into the rich history of Aqaba as every corner of the castle recites a tale about its magnificence and grandeur. In earlier times it served as a pilgrimage stop, but now it’s a popular tourist site. The fort is designed in a rectangular shape, and two towers protrude from its corners. Also, on the northern side of the fort, there are two-towered guesthouses.  Location:   AlHafayer Park, Aqaba, Jordan

Aqaba Bird Observatory

This is a paradise for bird watchers as you can spot more than seventy bird species here. It is covered with wetlands and forests and is located close to the northern horizon of the Red Sea. It receives flocks of migratory birds from Asia, Europe, and America in every migration season. This bird observatory is open all through the year, but it is best to visit this spot during the autumn and spring. So get ready for the most awesome and thrilling date with nature by visiting this Bird observatory. Location: King Hussein Airport Street, Aqaba, Jordan

The Jordan Valley

This is a dramatic landscape located at around 400 m below sea level at the Dead Sea and is often touted as one of the best places to visit in Jordan due to its bewitching beauty. This expansive stretch of azure blue water is the meeting point of several rivers, including Jordan River. The valley has a narrow and long trough with an average width of 10 km. It forms the border between the West Bank and Israel to the West and Jordan to the East. The Jordan River forms a sweeping meander down the center of this valley, and it empties into the Dead Sea. This is often touted as the lowest valley in the entire world where you can have a picturesque view of the beautiful horizon of nature.

Aqaba Marine Park

Located in the southern region of Aqaba, this marine park aims to preserve the marine biosphere and encourages the people to protect the aquatic habitats and natural wonders. This park also offers excellent scuba diving opportunities as there are nineteen diving sites located within the coastline where the visitors can explore the different aquatic marvels. The coral gardens, crystal clear water, and the multicolored fishes that can be spotted in this marine park often draw the expert divers towards it. You can see interesting marine creatures on the coastal bench like flounder, lionfish, moray eels, and pufferfish.  Location: Aqaba, Jordan

Located in an area of 4.3 million square meters, Ayla Oasis is a waterfront development community situated along the Red Sea coast of Jordan. It offers access to the sea, and you can enjoy lots of interesting activities here like golf, table tennis, and badminton. This is a $1.4 billion development project, and it consists of a series of artificial lakes, 1700 hotel rooms, and 3000 residential units. It is a dynamic and well-balanced community that enriches the lives of people by offering them memorable experiences in the unparalleled seaside destination. It offers bike tours, climbing tours, pub and club tours, and many other interesting activities.  Location: Aqaba, Jordan Famous for: bike tours, climbing tours, pub, and club tours

Al Hafayer Beach

If you want to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, then Al Hafayer Beach should be your ideal destination. The beach also known as Palm Beach now, was once the original Aqaba Port and also the Royal Yacht Club was located here. It is lined with traditional cafes and shacks where you can wine and dine in peace. You can walk along the vegetable orchards and boulevards lined with trees and also enjoy the pleasant sunset and sunrise views along with some delicious coffee and tea.  Location: Aqaba, Jordan Famous for: swimming, fishing

Places to Visit in Jerash

Temple of artemis.

This temple is dedicated to Goddess Artemis who is known to be the goddess of fertility and hunting. It is located inside the courtyard of the sanctuary of Artemis and was built between 150-170 AD. This temple has a hexastyle portico with twelve pillars and three entrances that are decorated with Corinthian pilasters. At the backside of the temple, there is an adytum, which is also known as the inner shrine, where only the Roman Priest is permitted to enter. The entire temple is clad in white marble, and statues of Artemis are inscribed on the walls, which look truly magnificent. Location: Near archaeological Site of Jerash, Jordan

This is one of the most beautifully crafted plazas in Jerash that is surrounded by a colonnade and broad sidewalk. It measures 90mx80m and is segregated by two altars in the middle of the pavements. A fountain was further added to beautify the look of this plaza in the 7th Century. The intriguing oval-shaped public square of this plaza that has been framed by the standing columns further attracts the tourists towards it. It is also one of the most photographed sites of Jerash, so make sure to snap some stunning pictures while you’re over here. Location: 20 47, Jerash, Jordan

Arch of Hadrian

This is one of the most popular Jordan tourist attractions that captivate the visitors towards it with its stunning architecture and breathtaking design. Arch of Hadrian is an extremely beautiful Roman structure located in Jerash. It has a triple-arched gateway and wooden doors that give you the truest essence of the grandeur that prevailed in that era. It also features some of the most stunning Nabataean architectural highlights like acanthus bases. The arch was reconstructed in 2017 for a more refined look. It was built to honor Rome’s Emperor’s visit to Hadrian. Location: Wasi At-Tal, Jerash, Jordan

Temple of Zeus

If you’re on the lookout for solitude and want to seek the blessings of God, then this temple will offer you the truest sense of divinity and peace. This temple is dedicated to Greek God Zeus who is known to control the thunder and sky. The temple was built around 156 AD, and it is Romano-Syrian in design and style. The ambitious layout and tall columns of this temple makes it one of the largest temples in historical times. The temple suffered massive destruction over the centuries, but now it has been reconstructed to help it retain its original appeal. Location: 20 67, Jerash, Jordan

Roman Ruins

If you’re on the lookout for well preserved architectural splendors then the Roman Ruins of Jerash should be your ideal spot. The colonnaded avenues, theaters, temples, and ceremonial gates all speak up about the time when it was an extremely important imperial center. Even if you’re not a die-hard fan of archeology, you’re bound to enjoy your trip here. You can find here the ruins of the Temple of Artemis, the roman times theatre, and a magnificent Oval Plaza over here.

Dibeen Forest Reserve

Located at the southern end of the town of Jerash, this forest reserve covers 8.5 square kilometers of hills covered with oak and pine habitat. It was established in the year 2004 by the Royal Society for Conservation of Nature. This is a natural biodiversity hotspot where rare orchids and endangered species are protected in a safe environment. You can also find some hiking trails along with the hilly ranges of this forest reserve, where you can go for an adrenaline-rushing hiking experience. You can only visit the forest reserve by car as public transport is not allowed over here.

Jerash Museum

This is one of the best historical places in Jordan that you must visit. This museum was established in 1923 inside the vaults of the expansive courtyard of the Artemis Temple. It houses a huge collection of glass, metals, pottery, and coins along with stones, marbles, precious stones, and mosaics. In the garden area of the museum, Latin and Greek monumental inscriptions can be seen on the walls. The museum is dedicated solely to the greatest discoveries that occurred in the Jerash region. Location: Jerash, Jordan

Places to Visit in Madaba

This is an extremely popular tourist spot that offers a panoramic view of the city of Madaba as well as river Jordan. In the bible, it has been described to be a place where Moses was blessed to have an enthralling view of the promised land. This is an extremely popular spot for the photographers who especially come over here to capture the breathtaking view from the hilltop. From the top of the mountain, you can have a view of the serpentine cross sculpture, which is the incredible creation of Giovanni Fanton, a famous Italian artist .  Location:  15 minutes away from the city of Madaba

Church of the Beheading of John the Baptist

This is a famous Catholic church that was built in the 20th century. The façade of this church is made of antique stones, and if you descend towards the vault of the church, then you can find a Moab-era well that has been functioning for the last 3,000 years. The chapel of the church consists of the visitor center where you can see the ancient relics and arts inscribed on the walls. A mosaic painting has been placed near the main entrance of the ticket office, and after climbing a few stairs, you’ll see a huge observation deck overlooking the town of Madaba. Location: Prs. Haya St., Madaba, Jordan

Church of the Apostles

This is one of the most beautiful sightseeing places in Jordan and is dedicated to the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ. The architecture of this church is truly splendid, and you can find flowers, birds, animals, and cherubic faces inscribed on the walls here. Every year thousands of tourists visit this spot to seek solitude and the divine blessings of Jesus Christ. This church also offers the teachings of the Bible to the true followers of Jesus Christ.  Location: Madaba, Jordan

Madaba Mosaic Map

The Madaba Mosaic Map, also known as Madaba Map, is the world’s oldest map that gives you a glimpse of the biblical layout of the nations. This place also contains some of the oldest surviving cartographic designs of Jerusalem. Located near the Saint George Church in Madaba, this map shows the way people had the notion of the world in the ancient era. If you’re a history buff then this place should be the topmost destination in your list as it will unveil many secrets of how the entire world looked like in the biblical era. This is definitely one of the best sightseeing places in Jordan . Location: K. Talal St. 30, Madaba, Jordan

Madaba Archaeological Museum

This museum attracts a large number of tourists towards it due to its architectural splendor and the impressive display of the ancient ruins. Madaba Archaeological Museum gives a glimpse of the history of Madaba through the impressive collection of stone artifacts, pottery, lamps, mosaics, and precious stones. It came into existence in 1978 and is located in a courtyard at the southern end of a blind alley that branches from Balqa street. It is often touted as one of the best sightseeing places in Jordan.

People Also Ask About Jordan

Which are the best places to visit in jordan.

1. Petra - The ancient city of Petra is one of the most unique and fascinating places to visit in Jordan. It is listed in the New 7 Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some of the must-visit sites in Petra are the Theatre, the High Place of Sacrifice, the Monastery, the Treasury and the Colonnaded Street. While here do not miss out on the Petra Night Show. 2. Dead Sea - One of the most unique experiences you can try out in Jordan is floating in the Dead Sea. This is one of the most quintessential tourist places in Jordan. The Dead Sea is famous worldwide for its mineral-rich waters and the healing properties the Dead Sea sludge has for the skin. 3. Wadi Rum - Jordan is home to quite a few unique attractions in the world. Wadi Rum is one such place that should definitely be on your places to visit in Jordan list. Right from the Valley of the Moon to the Khazali Canyon you can spend a night glamping and also indulge in some spectacular stargazing.

What can we do in Jordan in 3 days?

1. Northern Jordan - If you are pressed for time then spend a day in Northern Jordan where you can explore Jerash, Ajloun and Umm Qais. Explore ancient Roman architecture in Jerash such as the Temple of Artemis and the Arch of Hadrian. Ajloun is a beautiful hilly region in Jordan and it is famous for the impressive ruins of the Ajloun Castle. Enjoy sweeping views of the Sea of Galilee from Umm Qais. 2. Dead Sea and nearby attractions - Next visit the Dead Sea and the attractions nearby. Madaba is one of the most fascinating ancient towns in Jordan and it is famous for the 6th century mosaic map which can be seen in the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George. While here also visit the La Storia Tourism Complex which showcases a variety of dioramas depicting historical and Biblical scenarios. 3. Petra and Wadi Rum - Spend your third day exploring the well-preserved ruins of Petra and the unique sandstone formations of Wadi Rum. Add a touch of adventure by ending your day with a stay in one of the martian tents in a desert camp.

Is Jordan expensive for tourists?

How to reach jordan.

By Air - Jordan’s capital city Amman handles most of the international flights from various countries around the world. The Queen Alia International Airport in Amman is well connected with all major cities globally. By Bus - Several long distance bus services are available for Jordan from various Middle Eastern countries near Jordan such as Tel Aviv, Damascus, etc. By Water - Jordan can also be reached by a water route and you can avail a speedboat or ferry services to the Port of Aqaba.

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Western travellers have been exploring the Middle East for well over a century, but Jordan is a relative newcomer to tourism, welcoming only a fraction of the numbers who visit neighbouring Egypt and Israel. Its popular image abroad encompasses not much more than camels and deserts, yet this is a country of mountains, beaches, castles and ancient churches, with an urbane people and a rich culture. It is safe, comfortable and welcoming – and by far the region’s most rewarding destination to travel.

Facts about Jordan

Where to go in jordan, jordan’s cultural heritage, jordanian identity, nationality, the next generation, jordan’s flag, pigeon-fancying, the royal botanic garden, the search for water, tailor-made travel itineraries for jordan, created by local experts.

6 days  / from 1333 USD

Discover Jordan

Jordan has it all: spectacular desert scenery; the Dead Sea, age-old cities, castles, monuments, and more. Discover the best of this welcoming country as you delve into the history of ancient civilizations and see one of the New Seven Wonders of the World up close.

8 days  / from 1665 USD

Treasures of Jordan

From the Dead Sea's restorative salty shores to Red Sea reefs teeming with aquatic life, Jordan is full of treasures. Get a taste of desert life and adventure in Wadi Rum; then fill up on culture in Petra and Amman, and maybe squeeze in a trip to Jerusalem, too.

6 days  / from 1080 USD

Highlights of Jordan

Explore the highlights of Jordan in this compact itinerary. Activities include stargazing in Wadi Rum, exploring Petra and spending a day at leisure at the Dead Sea. Your knowledgeable guide will share stories about history and culture and introduce the Bedouin lifestyle to you.

Jordan is about 85 percent desert, but this one plain word covers a multitude of scenes, from the dramatic red sands and towering cliffs of the far south to the vast stony plains of volcanic basalt in the east. The northern hills, rich with olive trees, teeter over the rift of the Jordan Valley, which in turn runs down to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth. The centre of the country is carpeted with tranquil fields of wheat, cut through by expansive canyons and bordered by arid, craggy mountains. At Jordan’s southernmost tip, beaches fringe the warm waters of the Red Sea, which harbours some of the most spectacular coral reefs in the world.

• The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan (Al Mamlakeh Al Urduniyyeh Al Hashmiyyeh, or Al Urdun for short) covers around 90,000 square kilometres – roughly the same area as Portugal or Indiana.
• Of the 6.7 million population, well over 90 percent are Muslim Arabs, with small minorities of Christian Arabs, as well as Muslim Circassians and Chechens.
• Life expectancy is just over 80 – slightly ahead of the UK and Luxembourg.
• Jordan is a constitutional monarchy, with universal suffrage over the age of 18. The king appoints the Prime Minister and together they appoint the Cabinet. The Senate is appointed by the king and the House of Representatives is voted in by proportional representation.
• Jordan’s per-capita GDP is under US$6000. It has virtually no oil. Key economic sectors are phosphate and potash production, and tourism.
• Jordanian workers are entitled to a minimum wage of JD190/month (US$265).
• King Abdullah’s father, King Hussein, and mother, Toni Gardiner (later Princess Muna), met on the set of Lawrence of Arabia in 1961.
• King Abdullah once appeared in a non-speaking role in Star Trek: Voyager.

There are many fascinating places to visit in Jordan, from ancient Nabataean cities to the world-famous salt lake, known as the Dead Sea. Here is a handful of the best places to go in Jordan:

Treasury at Petra, Jordan © trabantos/Shutterstock

Magnificent ancient city hidden away in the craggy mountains of the south – one of the world’s must-see attractions.

The Dead Sea

Enjoy spectacular sunsets at the lowest point on earth, floating effortlessly on this inland lake supported only by the density of the salty water.

Wadi Rum Protected Area

Experience the atmosphere of the open desert in the stunning company of sheer mountains, red dunes and vast, silent panoramas.

Amman midtown with the Jordan flag in the background © tenkl/Shutterstock

Roman columns and the ruins of an Islamic-era palace tower over Amman, gazing down on a huge Roman theatre in the heart of the city.

Head south for some of the Red Sea’s best-preserved coral reefs and greatest marine biodiversity.

Follow in the footsteps of Moses to this summit above the Dead Sea (named in Deuteronomy), to gaze out over the Promised Land.

The “Desert Castles”

Take a day to explore this fascinating string of early-Islamic forts, bathhouses and caravanserais east of Amman on a convenient, easy-to-navigate loop of roads.

Large South Theatre - in antique town Jerash © volkova natalia/Shutterstock

A spectacularly well-preserved Roman city, complete with colonnaded streets, grand temples, intimate marketplaces and mosaic-floored churches.

Discover more places in Jordan

• The eastern desert Travel Guide
• Jerash and the north Travel Guide
• The King’s Highway Travel Guide

Jordan is part of the land bridge linking Europe, Africa and Asia, and has seen countless armies come and go. Greeks, Romans, Muslims, Christian Crusaders and more have left evidence of their conquests, and there are literally thousands of archeological sites from all periods in every corner of the country. In addition, Israel and Palestine, Jordan’s neighbours to the west, have no monopoly on biblical history: it was in Jordan that Lot sought refuge from the fire and brimstone of the Lord; Moses, Aaron and John the Baptist all died in Jordan; and Jesus was almost certainly baptized here. Even the Prophet Muhammad passed through.

And yet the country is far from being stuck in the past. Amman is a thoroughly modern Arab capital, and poverty is the exception rather than the rule. The government, under head of state King Abdullah II, manages to be simultaneously pro-Western, pro-Arab, founded on a bedrock of Muslim authority and committed to peace with Israel. Women are better integrated into positions of power in government and business than almost anywhere else in the Middle East. Jordanians are also exceptionally highly educated: roughly four percent of the total population is enrolled at university, a proportion comparable to the UK. Traditions of hospitality are ingrained, and taking up some of the many invitations you’ll get to tea or a meal will expose you to an outlook among local people that is often as cosmopolitan and world-aware as anything at home. Domestic extremism is very rare.

Desert camp at Wadi Rum, Jordan © Ahmad A Atwah/Shutterstock

Most people take great pride in their ancestry, whether they’re present or former desert-dwellers (bedouin) or from a settled farming tradition (fellahin). Across the desert areas, people still live and work on their tribal lands, whether together in villages or apart in individual family units. Many town-dwellers, including substantial numbers of Ammanis, also claim tribal identity. Belonging to a tribe (an honour conferred by birth) means respecting the authority of a communal leader, or sheikh, and living in a culture of shared history, values and principles that often crosses national boundaries. Notions of honour and mutual defence are strong. Tribes also wield a great deal of institutional power: most members of Jordan’s lower house of parliament are elected for their tribal, rather than political, affiliation. The king, as sheikh of sheikhs, commands heartfelt loyalty among many people and respect among most of the rest.

National identity is a thorny issue in Jordan, which has taken in huge numbers of Palestinian refugees since the foundation of the State of Israel in 1948. Many people from tribes resident east of the River Jordan before 1948 resent this overbalancing of the country’s demography, as well as the fact that Palestinians, having developed an urbanized, entrepreneurial culture, dominate private-sector business. For their part, Jordanians of Palestinian origin – by some estimates comprising more than sixty percent of the population – often resent the “East Bank” Jordanians’ grip on power in government and the public sector. All are Jordanian citizens, but citizenship tends to mean less to many of Palestinian origin than their national identity, and less to many East Bankers than their tribal affiliation. Recent influxes of refugees from Iraq and Syria, plus large numbers of long-stay guest workers from Egypt, muddy the issue still further. “Where are you from?” – a simple enough question in many countries – is in Jordan the cue for a life story.

Top image: Ad Deir temple, Petra © tenkl/Shutterstock

Although Jordan has a homogeneous population, society is characterized by overlapping layers of identity . You’ll often come across expressions of religious and social sensibility that sound refreshingly unfamiliar to Western ears.

Almost Jordan’s entire population is Arab . This is an ethnic term, but also marks a pan-national identity, largely because nation-states are relatively new: many people in Jordan feel a much stronger cultural affinity with Arabs from nearby countries than, say, Britons might feel with Belgians. The bedouin add a deeper layer of meaning by often regarding themselves to be the only true, original Arabs. Jordan has tiny ethnic minorities of Circassians and Chechens (who are Muslim), Armenians (Christian) and Kurds (Muslim) – all of whom are closely bound into Jordanian society – as well as Dom gypsies (also Muslim).

Roughly 92 percent of Jordanians are Sunni Muslim , and the observance of Islam is a central part of daily life for most people across the country. The call to prayer sounds five times a day in every city, town and village. Jordan’s largest religious minority, totalling around six percent, are Christians , most of whom are Greek Orthodox, but also including Melkite Catholics, Roman Catholics, Syrian Orthodox, Armenian Orthodox, Coptic Orthodox, Maronites and some Protestants (Lutherans, Baptists, Episcopalians and others). There are also small communities of Shia Muslims , Druze and Bahai . Expats aside, there are no Jews in Jordan.

There persists a perceived difference between people whose origins lie in families long resident on the east bank of the River Jordan and people whose families originate on the west bank of the river. All are Jordanian citizens, yet Jordanians of Palestinian origin are estimated to number between half and three-quarters of the total population. Roughly seven percent of people in Jordan are expats, including guest workers – many of them Egyptian , Sri Lankan and Filipino – alongside a sizeable population of Iraqi refugees.

A tribe is an extended grouping of families who cultivate a distinctive tradition of history and folklore (mainly oral) and assert ownership of a particular territory. Not all tribes are desert-dwelling – there are many whose background is rural, and others who have become urbanized. Tribal territories, which predate nation-states, often extend across international borders. Some tribes are made up of clans and branches which have taken on tribe-like status; others have banded together in larger, often pan-national, tribal confederations. All these concepts are rather loose, but for a lot of Jordanians, tribal identity is at least as strong as religious or national identity.

Within tribal identity, many people make a distinction between two broad social traditions. The bedouin originate in families who are current or former desert-dwellers: they may once have been nomadic, but are almost all now settled. Some still live in tents in or near the desert, following traditional lifestyles, but many do not: a police officer in Amman or a marketing executive in Aqaba might be as bedouin as a camel-guide in Wadi Rum. By contrast the fellahin originate from a settled, rural, farming tradition, often in the north and west of Jordan. They frequently have strong historic links – often of family or tribe – to rural communities across the borders in Syria and Palestine.

More than a third of Jordanians are under 15 . This is one of the best-educated countries in the developing world: almost everyone you meet will be able to hold some sort of conversation in English (and possibly French, Spanish and German too). Students from all income groups and social backgrounds mix freely at the universities, where the traditional emphasis on engineering and the sciences – Jordan is a world leader in medical fields including ophthalmology and cardiology – is giving way to new technology. Aqaba’s Red Sea Institute of Cinematic Arts , backed by Steven Spielberg, is turning out directors and cinematographers of world-class standard. The heritage-style image of Jordan as a nation of simple tent-dwellers, scratching a living from the desert sands, bears little relation to reality.

Jordan’s flag is adapted from the revolutionary banner of the Great Arab Revolt of 1916–17, when Arab armies under the Hashemites – a noble dynasty, now led by King Abdullah II of Jordan, which traces its origins back to the Prophet Muhammad – overthrew the rule of the Ottoman Empire in the Middle East.

The flag has three equal horizontal bands. At the top is black , representing the Abbasid Caliphate that ruled from Baghdad in the eighth and ninth centuries; in the middle is white , representing the Umayyad Caliphate that ruled from Damascus in the seventh and eighth centuries; and at the bottom is green , representing the Fatimid Caliphate that ruled from Cairo in the tenth and eleventh centuries. On the hoist side is a red triangle representing the Great Arab Revolt of 1916–17. Within the triangle is a seven-pointed white star which symbolizes the seven verses of the opening sura (verse) of the Quran; the points represent faith in one God, humanity, national spirit, humility, social justice, virtue and hope.

At sunset in towns all across Jordan, you’ll see small, tight flocks of pigeons wheeling overhead. Pigeon-fancying is surprisingly popular, and has taken on something of a shady image, since the point of it is not to race the birds, but rather to kidnap prize specimens from other people’s flocks. In every neighbourhood, as the sun goes down, people emerge onto the flat rooftops and open up their ramshackle pigeon coops, sometimes twirling a lure on a length of rope to keep the flock dipping and swooping, sometimes holding a female bird up so that the males will circle around. Neighbours will often deliberately exercise their flocks at the same time, to try and persuade each other’s birds to defect; similarly, some well-trained flocks can be enticed to fly off to another part of town to bring back new individuals. Newspapers report that enthusiasts gain three or four new birds a week, yet lose roughly the same number. Many fanciers keep their identities secret, since – for obvious reasons – they’re popularly seen as being not entirely trustworthy.

Due to open in 2014, Jordan's Royal Botanic Garden is set to feature five local habitats (deciduous oak forest, pine forest, juniper forest, Jordan Valley and freshwater wadi), as well as themed gardens (medicinal, Islamic, the five senses, bees and more). Eventually there will be walks along 20km of scenic nature trails , birdwatching from concealed hides, a butterfly house, boat trips on the lake, a wholefood café-restaurant and ecolodge accommodation.

The site chosen for the garden is the hilly area of Tell Ar Rumman , to the west of the Amman–Jerash road about 25km north of the capital, overlooking the lake formed by the King Talal Dam. Because of the garden’s size (180 hectares, with more than 300m of elevation difference between mountain summits and the lakeshore) and its variety of habitats, most of Jordan’s native plant species can be grown onsite. It is intended to be a demonstration site, showcasing “sustainable living and environmentally compatible solutions that can be easily replicated by the average Jordanian”. For up-to-date information , call or check the website (06 541 3402, w royalbotanicgarden.org ).

Jordan is one of the five driest countries in the world. Annual consumption per capita (calculated as renewable water resources withdrawn) is about 170 cubic metres, compared with 630 as the world average, 800 across the Middle East/North Africa region – and 1,650 in North America. Almost a third of the water used in Jordan comes from non-sustainable or non-renewable sources. Three decades of pumping from the once-abundant Azraq oasis has brought it to the point of collapse. The River Yarmouk sports a large dam shared by Jordan and Syria, and all the major valleys leading down to the Dead Sea are now dammed in an effort to stop water draining into the salty lake – which has contributed to its rapid shrinking. Every winter the local newspapers publish reports tabulating levels of water storage in the country’s reservoirs, while Jordanians anxiously wait for rain. Water rationing is in place in Amman over the summer. A scheme to pipe water to Amman from desert aquifers at Disi is already under way, and plans are afoot for desalination plants on the Red Sea, possibly – and very controversially – to be powered by a nuclear plant.

Travel advice for Jordan

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Jordan

• Culture and Etiquette in Jordan
• Eating and drinking in Jordan
• How to get to Jordan
• Getting around Jordan: Transportation Tips
• Shopping tips for Jordan
• Travel Tips Jordan for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit Jordan

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10 Best Things to do in Amman, Jordan

With earth-colored cube houses that sprawl up on the hills, the capital of Jordan is one of the oldest cities in the world. Apart from excavations dating back to the Stone Age (7000 B.C.!), it has numerous archaeological sites and historical places to see, from Roman ruins to famous mosques. But it’s not all about history – you’ll also find many modern neighborhoods full of colorful markets, delicious food, and stunning art. Spend a day or two exploring the capital before touring elsewhere. Here are all the best things to do in Amman, Jordan .

Things to do in Amman, Jordan

Amman is more than just a place to use as a base for other things to do in Jordan. It’s a lively city with lots going on, though it never feels too chaotic. With bustling markets, shopping streets, cafes, and lots of street art in between, it makes a great starting point for your 7-day Jordan itinerary. Spend a day or two discovering famous historical sites, exploring the many art galleries, and trying out the country’s well-known falafel.

Here are all your hotel options in Amman.

1. The Duke’s Diwan

Perhaps one of the most unique things to do in Amman, Jordan, is take a peek into the Duke of Mukhaybeh’s house. This historic building is regarded as one of the oldest houses in Amman, offering a glimpse into the past. It is located in the heart of the city. As you explore the city, take a few minutes to roam around in the rooms decorated with antique furnishings, beautiful ornaments, and artwork. 

Hotels in Amman 😴

Enter through a small door on the main street and make your way up the staircase. Once upstairs, you’ll walk into a very traditional, well-preserved home. It’s said that it was initially used as a post office, later becoming the Ministry of Finance and a hotel. Now, it belongs to the Duke, who you’ll sometimes find on-site.

Note: The house museum is free to visit, and all the rooms are easily explored within 15 minutes.

2. Amman Citadel, Umayyad Palace

Amman is sprawled up and across over twenty hills, creating waves of beautiful cubed buildings. Atop one of the highest hills lies Amman’s Citadel, overlooking the entire city and Roman theater.

The view alone makes it a stunning place to visit. However, it is also home to several archaeological remnants, dating back as far as the Bronze Age (1800 B.C.). Wander around the open-air site, taking in the remains of the empires that ruled here, from the Assyrians, Greeks, and Babylonians to the Romans. 

One of the most interesting remains is the blue-domed Umayyad gateway, the entrance to the Umayyad Palace. This building was the site of power for the first Muslim dynasty that ruled Jordan from the 7th century. 

Also read Things to do in Wadi Rum, Jordan .

Getting there: From the Roman Theater, a set of stairs ( here’s the location ) leads up to the Citadel. Walk up through an old neighborhood, and you’ll eventually reach a road to the site entrance. You’ll find signs along the way, and the walk takes about 20 minutes. Alternatively, arrange a taxi to take you up the hill. 

Opening Times & Entrance Fee: The Citadel is open from 8 AM daily but closes at different hours depending on the season ( check opening times here ). Entrance costs 3JD (4,23 USD) for foreigners.

3. Roman Theater

Though expected in Europe , many Roman remains are found far beyond the continent’s borders. The Roman Theater, nestled in the heart of Amman, stands as a testament to this far-reaching influence of the Roman Empire. Back then, the city was known as Philadelphia. Now, the semi-circular marvel stands as it did nearly two millennia ago, making it a must-do in Amman, Jordan. 

As you explore its well-preserved steps and soak up the atmosphere, you’ll be transported back to a time of Roman entertainment. The construction boasts a capacity to host about 6,000 spectators for grand theater performances and spectacles. Climb all the way to the top for panoramic views over the site, as well as the beautiful surrounding buildings. 

Entrance to the Roman Theater in Amman is included in the Jordan Pass , including its two small museums. Without the pass, entry is 2JD (2.83 USD). 

See tickets and availability for a private city tour of Amman

4. Soak up the (Street) Art

Weave your way through the narrow alleys that move up and down the hills of Amman, soaking up the different sights as you go. During your stroll, you’ll quickly notice that besides its uniform-hued buildings, some pop out in various colors.

These beautiful contemporary murals sometimes rise several stories high, giving the ancient city a more modern feel. You’ll spot many as you walk around Amman; however, the most interesting pieces are found in neighborhoods further away from downtown. 

Join a guided graffiti tour in Amman to see some of the best artworks.

Art Galleries

Apart from street art, you’ll also find incredible gallery houses with curated collections of modern Middle Eastern art and sculptures. After diving into the city’s history, visiting one (or a couple) of art galleries is one of the best things to do in Jordan. Some of the best are: 

• Darat al Funun
• Jadal for Knowledge and Culture
• Nabad Art Gallery
• Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts
• Amman Panorama Art Gallery

Odora Mosaico

If you’re fascinated by Amman’s vibrant art scene, consider joining a mosaic workshop. Amidst the city’s bustling creativity, you’ll learn about the ancient art of mosaic-making. Here, colorful tiles come together to tell stories on walls and floors. 

Under the guidance of skilled artisans, you’ll learn to craft your own intricate masterpieces, leaving you with newfound skills and a deeper appreciation for the city’s rich artistic heritage.

Book your beginner mosaic workshop at Odora Mosaico . You’ll find them located here .

5. Rainbow Street 

With lots of bars, cafes, and restaurants, the lively area of Rainbow Street is quite possibly Amman’s most famous street. It’s known as a place where tourists and locals come to mingle or go for a night out, making it the perfect place if you’re looking for nightlife and entertainment. 

However, the kilometer-long street also houses some great food spots decorated with colorful lights, picturesque decors, and unique ornaments. Its central location intersects with some of the best things to do in Amman, allowing you to hop into the quieter side alleys for some delicious falafel or beautiful artwork. 

Food tip: Visit Sufra for lunch or dinner, with many yummy mezze (bites) to choose from.

6. King Abdullah Mosque (Blue Mosque)

Unlike other mosques, the King Abdullah Mosque welcomes tourists to take a look inside its beautiful building. With an impressive sky-blue dome that towers over the rooftops of Amman, it’s a must-see in the city. Marvel at the carefully crafted shape of the mosque, its colored ceiling, and detailed little windows. 

Also discover the Things to do at the Dead Sea of Jordan .

It’s not an ancient historical landmark, as it was completed in 1989 by the late King Hussein in honor of his grandfather. However, it’s a great way to glimpse the largest mosque in Amman and see how the locals practice their religion. Entrance to the blue mosque is timed and costs 2JD, only in cash.

Note: Women must cover their heads, arms, and legs to enter the mosque. You can get a free abaya (scarf) in the gift shop (the entrance). Men are recommended to wear long pants and no hats.

7. Old Signs of Amman Museum

Tucked in the charming streets of Amman, the ‘One Thousand and One Signs Museum’ is where a collection of old shop signs began nearly 40 years ago. It immerses you in the city’s history, boasting a stunning collection of vintage signs, each telling a story of Amman’s evolution. 

The purpose of this museum is to preserve an important part of Amman’s history, with the first sign dating back to 1986.

It’s a great place to take some photos because of its vintage vibe and cute photo booth. Run on a voluntary non-profit basis, the museum is free to enter and open Saturday through Thursday from 10 AM to 5 PM (closed on Fridays). 

8. Cooking Class: Beit Sitti

No matter where you are in the world, whether it’s Paris or Costa Rica , there’s probably an option to try delicious Middle Eastern cuisine. However, the very best is undoubtedly found in the region itself. Embark on a culinary adventure in Amman, Jordan, by joining a cooking class that delves into the rich gastronomy. 

Under the expert guidance of local chefs, you’ll knead the dough for fluffy falafels, savor freshly ground spices, and master the art of crafting delicious dishes like mansaf or maqluba. One of the best places to follow a class is at Beit Sitti, which translates to ‘Grandmother’s House’ and lies in one of Amman’s oldest neighborhoods. 

Run by three lovely ladies, you’ll learn how to cook the Jordan way, making traditional recipes that have been passed down through generations. For us, they adjusted their class to vegetarian. Learn to work with delicious ingredients and get a better understanding of Jordan’s vibrant culinary heritage. 

Book your cooking class for lunch or dinner

9. Jordan Museum

The Jordan Museum in Amman is a window into the country’s storied past, full of interesting archaeological treasures. Marvel at the inspiring Dead Sea Scrolls, explore the intricate exhibits of ancient artifacts, and gaze at the well-preserved remnants of Petra , one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. 

Also go: Canyoning in Wadi Mujib, Jordan

With immersive displays, the museum gives you insight into Jordan’s rich and long history, with exhibitions that showcase the different civilizations that have called this land home for millennia. It’s an interesting thing to do in Amman and a great review for the start of your 7-day Jordan itinerary.

10. Visit the Markets

Get lost in the Souks of Amman, where towers of local fruit stand tall next to one another, and the smell of fresh daily bread, coffee, tobacco, and sugary snacks flows through the narrow alleys. Visiting the vibrant local markets is one of the best things to do in Jordan . Nothing tops wandering through the bustling streets, taking in all the colors, noises and smells. 

Two of our favorites are Souk Jara and the Sugar Market (Souk Al-Sukar), full of delicious food and drink options and lots of unique artwork. Dip in and out of the daily market to soak up the atmosphere, grab some pictures, and try some new local foods. Some stalls are open from early in the morning, but most open around 10 or 11 AM till 10 PM. Make sure to stop here for some fresh juice as you browse the interconnected souks. 

Note: Bargaining is part of the culture here, and you’ll experience first-hand how locals shop in the souks. Please remember to always politely ask if you can take a picture of someone before doing so.

Travel Insurance Don't forget a travel insurance for your Jordan trip! Heymondo covers medical emergencies, theft, delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more, with 24/7 worldwide assistance and medical chat. As a Salt in our Hair reader, we've got you 5% off! Check Heymondo here

Best Cafes & Restaurants in Amman

Jordan’s flavors, textures, colors, and ingredients all give a glimpse into the country’s rich cuisine. From delicious falafels, a Middle Eastern staple, to fresh baba ganoush or maqluba, delve into Amman’s great food scene. Some of our favorite restaurants are: 

• Zghairon Cafe
• Byat Sara (vegan)
• Hashem Restaurant
• Yafa Coffee House
• Jordan Heritage
• Rouhi AlAqili

Tip: Though many Eastern delicacies have made their way to the Western hemisphere, there’s nothing better than trying them in their original countries. 

Where to Stay

In the heart of Amman, you’ll find many vibrant accommodation options near some of the best things to do in Jordan .

From luxurious boutique hotels overlooking the ancient citadel to cute guesthouses nestled in the bustling downtown, there’s something for every type of budget. We recommend staying in the center, around the colorful and lively Sugar Market area. 

How Many Days in Amman?

As most international flights to Jordan arrive and depart in the capital city, Amman, it makes a lovely destination to explore for at least one full day, either at the beginning or end of your 7-day Jordan itinerary. 

How to Visit Amman, Jordan

Conveniently located only 50 minutes from the historic center, Queen Alia International Airport is the main airport in Jordan and has many connecting flights with its surroundings, including Europe . 

Though many visitors often skip the capital city, it has a cool vibe worth exploring. The easiest way to get downtown is by taxi, which takes approximately 30 – 45 minutes. Expect to spend about 15JD (22 USD) for the journey. Alternatively, there are also shuttle buses that depart for the city about every half hour.

Book your airport transfer in advance online

Getting Around

The labyrinth of alleys and busy streets in Amman, Jordan, are best to explore on foot. Make your way past colorful neighborhoods, gradually climbing one of the city’s many hills. Up top, look out over the sea of cubed houses and stunning historic buildings. Another option to get around town is to arrange a taxi.

How Much Does Amman Cost?

You can travel to Amman in Jordan and savor the city’s rich culture and history without breaking the bank. There are plenty of affordable accommodations and local restaurants to choose from. Taxis usually don’t cost more than a few dollars, and many attractions have a small entrance fee or are included in the Jordan Pass . 

Costs of Traveling in Amman

Travel on a budget in Amman, from $280 − $400 USD weekly per person, mid-range $620 − $1270 USD, and high-end from $1200 − $1720 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $40 − $100 USD Check available hotels
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• Car Rental: $30 − $80 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $5 − $30 USD
• Activities: $5 − $10 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $10 − $20 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Jordan is during the spring and fall months. The weather is pleasantly mild during this time, with daytime temperatures between 20 and 30 °C. Because of this, it’s a great time to explore the beautiful red outdoors and cities without the desert heat of summer.

Summers in Amman can be very hot, with temperatures often exceeding 35 °C, making traveling in the desert quite challenging. Winters can be cold and rainy, closing many outdoor activities.

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Wadi Rum, Jordan: 7 Unmissable Things to do

Dead sea, jordan: 6 best things to do, things to do in petra, jordan: the lost city.

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13 Exciting Things to Do in Jordan To Make You Pack Your Bags

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: June 3, 2023

There are so many things to do in Jordan, you will want at least a couple of weeks to visit. From the thriving metropolis of Amman to the quiet retreat of the Feynan Ecolodge, there is something for everyone.

Jordan – The jewel of the Middle East. Surrounded by chaos and unrest, Jordan has remained a neutral destination and it is difficult to imagine the conflict that is happening outside its borders.

It’s advisable to stay away from the Syrian and Iraqi borders and be sure to steer clear of demonstrations in public places. But travel to Jordan feels no more insecure than anywhere else in the world these days and once you enter the country, you’ll feel the welcoming friendliness of locals.

Table of Contents

What to do in Jordan

We had the opportunity to visit much of the country and fell in love with its beauty, culture and hospitality. Jordan is a destination to remember. So these are our top 10 things to do in Jordan that will make you want to pack your bags right now.

• Get your Lonely Planet Travel Guide for Jordan

1. Ancient City of Petra

Petra is one of the great ancient cities of the world and it definitely lives up to the hype. With momentous buildings built into high cliffs, Petra will literally take your breath away as you step into the Treasury square after your 2km walk through the deep narrow gorge of the Siq.

Dating back more than 2000 years, Petra was an important part of the Silk Route to China and India but was abandoned at some time around the 12th century.

It was only known to locals for hundreds of years until it was rediscovered by the West in 1812. This legendary setting is so beautiful, Hollywood has since come a-knockin’ using Petra for filming locations in movies such as Transformers and Indian Jones. Read more about Petra here.

2. Petra by Night

Petra is an incredible place to visit by day , but going to Petra at night is magical. When the sun goes down, visitors follow candles lining the Siq all the way to the treasury where we watched a traditional Bedouin performance.

While the performance was only average, it was the setting that was breathtaking. Hundreds of candles lit up the treasury making for a night to remember.

For us, Petra was one of the greatest ancient cities blowing us away far beyond our visits to Machu Picchu, the Pyramids or even Anchor Wat.

• Where to stay : Movenpick   or Petra Marriott
• Get your Guide offers guided tours to Petra 

3. Little Petra

Of course, Petra is the top draw in Jordan, but while there be sure to have your guide take you a bit north to visit Little Petra also known as Siq al Barid.

Archaeologists believe it was a suburb of Petra. See, the ancient cities weren’t that much different than today! The draw here are the 2000 year old frescoes. Like Petra, entrance is through a narrow siq, albeit on a much smaller scale.

4. Float in the Dead Sea

The Dead Sea truly is filled with salt and you can float until your heart’s content. Book a hotel directly on the sea so you can enjoy a daily dip in the healing waters. People have been known to lay on their backs reading a newspaper in the Dead Sea and it’s true! You really float on top!

• Holiday Inn Dead Sea – We stayed at this hotel it was luxurious with great value located directly on the Dead Sea with a fantastic beach.
• Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea – we ate at this hotel and toured the amenities and it is pure heaven.

5. Take a Therapeutic Mud Bath

The minerals of the dead sea have healing qualities and many people book retreats to help with ailments. Take advantage of the spas utilizing the healing waters of the Dead Sea and enjoy a retreat into pure luxury. If you rub mud all over your skin, it will be as smooth as a baby’s bottom.

I found the salt to be very powerful however and it stung my skin. It was good to have a bucket of fresh water on hand.

• Where to Stay – Holiday Inn Dead Sea – We stayed at this hotel it was luxurious with great value.
• Where to Stay – Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea – we ate at this hotel and wished we stayed here. Pure heaven.
• Only in Jordan for a limited time? Day tours can be booked to the Dead Sea. 

6. Canyoning Wadi Mujib

One of our favorite activities in all of Jordan was splashing around in the waters of Wadi Mujib for a day. Wadi Mujib is easily reached from the Dead Sea and can be included during your stay there.

Canyoning in the warm waters of Jordan was a fantastic thrill beginning with a rappel down a waterfall into fast-flowing water. Wearing a PFD (life jacket) we swam through pools, plunged down natural waterslides and slid through narrow gorges. It was an amazing way to escape the heat and get our adventure on. Read all about it at our Canyoning Adventure in Jordan

7. Wadi Rum

Wadi Rum is an incredible desert valley filled with narrow gorges, towering cliffs and natural stone arches. It’s home to the Bedouins where the human race has inhabited this land for nearly 12,000 years. T.E. Lawrence began his journey through the Arabian desert here.

Lawrence of Arabia is so linked to Wadi Rum, that the beautiful rock formation known as the Seven Pillars of Wisdom was named after his autobiography.

8. Sleep in a Bedouin Camp

There are many things to do in Wadi Rum. We took a jeep tour deep into the desert and we went on a camel safari to fill out our very own Lawrence of Arabia fantasies.

Experience a true Bedouin experience as you camp in the middle of Wadi Rum in yurts made out of wool. Walk by candlelight, enjoy a Bedouin meal cooked in the earth and ride a camel at sunset. But the best part about visiting Wadi Rum was staying in a Bedouin Camp to have a true Bedouin Experience.

We ate dinner in a tented camp where they prepared our meal underground. We stayed in our own private camp and walked along the pathway by candlelight. It was amazing to sleep under the stars.

• Where to Stay – Captains Desert Camp  – We stayed here and had a great authentic experience and ate an incredible meal.

9. Feynan Eco-Lodge

The Feynan Eco-Lodge is a luxury retreat that makes protecting Jordan’s natural resources and wildlife a priority. Hire a local guide from the lodge to take you on a nature hike through the reserve to point out the ancient ruins, local flora, and fauna and to share personal stories of growing up in the area.

At night enjoy a completely light pollution-free view of the stars as you lay in silence on the roof of the lodge to enjoy the night skies while sipping fresh tea.

• Read more about this experience in Jordan at Feynan Eco-Lodge a Quiet Retreat in Jordan
• You can book and check availability on Trip Advisor

10. Dana Nature Reserve

The Dana Biosphere Reserve cuts through the Rift Valley leading all the way to the heart of Africa. The town of Dana is a 15th century stone village overlooking the great valley. Once a thriving town, it has now been turned into an artist and farming community.

Here you can explore the town and hike through the natural preserve seeing local life as it has been lived for centuries. There are multi-day hikes you can do through the Biosphere Reserve and one even takes you from the village of Dana to the Feynan Ecolodge. Jordan is fast becoming an eco-travel destination.

• Where to Stay: Dana Guesthouse. 

If you like Roman ruins, you will love Jerash. Jerash is the most well-preserved ancient Roman city outside of Italy. Jerash dates back 6500 years and was an important city on Rome’s ancient trade route.

Thanks to the dry climate, it laid untouched for centuries to understand waiting to be explored. Excavations began in 1925 and today it is one of the greatest examples of Roman architecture outside of Rome.  

• Jerash can be reached by a day trip from Amman. We stayed at the Four Seasons Amman and took a day tour from the city
• Get Your Guide offers day trips from Amman to Jerash .
• For more on Jerash, read our post on our time at Jerash

12. Mount Nebo

For a spiritual journey visit Mount Nebo known to be the spot where Moses saw the promised land before he died. Looking out over the valley, you too can witness spectacular views of the Holy land.

Mount Nebo houses an active monastery and Byzantium church that is a popular stop for pilgrimages. Be sure to check out the mosaics.

13. Explore Amman

Amman is a thriving metropolis that is worth spending a few days in. Enjoy a shisha at a local bar, shop at one of the many markets and be sure to visit The King Abdullah Mosque.

For some local flare make sure to enjoy a meal at the Hashem Restaurant an outdoor café located in an alleyway packed with patrons.

Things to do in Amman

• King Abdullah Mosque
• Eat Food. Amman has an amazing food scene from street food to 5-star dining. Foods to try are falafel, hummus, nuts, khunafa, shawarma.
• Al Balad – The heart of Amman for markets and shopping
• Amman Citadel
• Rainbow Street

Where to Stay in Amman :  Four Seasons Amman

As you can see, there are plenty of things to do in Jordan far beyond Petra. With excellent eco-adventures, rich history, and incredible landscapes, Jordan makes for a wonderful Middle East vacation destination.

If you are looking for something different in your travels this year, be sure to give Jordan a try. You won’t be disappointed.

Map of Jordan – Our Itinerary

Click here for your own interactive map of Jordan

Attractions like Mount Nebo, Jerash and even the Dead Sead (if you have limited time) can be done in day trips from Amman.

We suggest at least one night at the Dead Sea.

Wadi Rum and Petra need to be overnight trips to truly appreciate the experiences.

Dana and Feynan are also recommended to have an overnight trip.

Suggested Jordan 10 Day Itinerary

• Day 1 – 3: (2 nights) – Explore Amman (can include a day trip to Jerash on one day)
• Day 3/4 – Day 3 leave for Petra and enjoy Petra by Night before exploring Petra the following day. (2 nights)
• Day 5/6 – Wadi Rum (2 nights)
• Day 6 – Overnight Feynan Eco Lodge (1 night)
• Day 7 – Overnight Dana Nature Reserve
• Day 8/9 – Dead Sea (2 nights).
• Day 10 – Stop at Mount Nebo on the way back to Amman

Read More about Jordan:

• Etiquette in the Middle East
• Jerash – Welcome to the Ancient Roman City of Jordan
• Wadi Mujib Canyoning, Jordan, An Eco-Adventure Thrill Ride
• Petra Jordan – Tips for Exploring the Lost City
• Petra by Night in Photos
• Jordan Travel Guide
• Walking Amman – A Walking Tour of Jordan’s Capital City
• Feynan Eco Lodge, A Quiet Retreat in Jordan
• Visiting the Dead Sea of Jordan – Floating Baths and Healing Water

Enjoy all of these places to visit in Jordan? Save it to Pinterest for future travel planning.

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

Petra Jordan – Tips for Visiting and Things to See

Jerash – Welcome to the Ancient Roman City of Jordan

Walking Amman – A Walking Tour of Jordan’s Capital City

About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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16 thoughts on “13 Exciting Things to Do in Jordan To Make You Pack Your Bags”

My dream destination

I don’t know that Amman, Jordan is so beautiful. I will describe it as Classic Beauty. Thanks for writing and sharing this trip report.

Did you rent a car and drive yourselves?

Jordan is one of my favorite destinations in the world.wadi rum is the best place i love to visit again.Nice post ,thanks for sharing information.keep it up

I am hoping to be in Jordan from 4-7 May (unfortunately only three days). How can I best spend those precious moments?

You may want to book a tour. You can hire a private driver through Get Your Guide or Viator and they can take you to the highlights. I wouldn’t miss Petra or the Dead Sea. But if timed right, you may be able to fit in a night at Wadi Rum. Best of Luck! Here is a link to Get Your Guide 2 day tours. https://www.getyourguide.com/s/?q=jordan&customerSearch=1&searchSource=2?partner_id=DRH67LO&cmp=DL_Jordan – It’s an affiliate link where we get a percentage if you book, but it is no extra cost to you.

Hi I am planning my trip to Jordan in May first week. I am arriving in Amman and departing from Aqaba, I have total 7N to stay in Jordan and wish to explore as much as possible. Can anyone guide how I can spread my days across?

More great information! Thanks. Definitely taking your recommendations.

I was meant to travel to Israel and Jordan in September 2010. It was when I was still working in the field of human rights. I got invited for a job interview in London, with Amnesty International, to be held the day before traveling – and had to cancel the trip, lose some 400 euro worth of flights etc. And in the end, I didn’t even get the job. It came down to “we were undecided between you and another candidate, and we picked the other”. Oh well. I need to go to Jordan to celebrate my decision to abandon that career and do something I enjoy much more!

What a bummer! I can understand why you cancelled though. That would have been an incredible opportunity to pass up. Sorry you didn’t get it, but it sounds like things turned out well. Maybe it was the catalyst you needed to follow your heart? Are you doing your blog full time now? I am sure you will get to Jordan soon. Perhaps the next time will be for an amazing project with the tourism board!

Amazing post! thanks for the sharing.

Hi, Dave and Deb!

I’m planning to go to Jordan a few months from now, and I’d really like to visit all the ten places you listed in this article! May I know the itinerary you used? I will be there for just 5 days, and I’d really like to consider the travel time between the locations you mentioned.

Hoping for your quick response! It will be greatly appreciated!

Thank you! Great blog, by the way! Love it!

Jordan is a fairly small country. It’s just a couple of hours between places. Jerash is only an hour from Amman, Wadi Rum is the farthest away from Amman at 5 Hours. If you start at Wadi Rum, then go to Petra (3 1/2 hours from Amman) then on from the Dead Sea. The Canyoning is right by the Dead Sea. For five days I think that should be a good itinerary for you. A day at Wadi Rum with an overnight at a Bedouin Camp, then on to Petra for a tour and do Petra at night then move onto the Dead Sea. A day at the Dead sea with a half day of Canyoning and then back to Amman. I don’t think there’s time for the Feynan Eco Lodge or Dana Nature Preserve, but you could give it a shot if you want to spend less time in Amman. Have a great time! The link to day tours to Wadi Rum is https://www.getyourguide.com/amman-l1035/full-day-wadi-rum-discovery-tour-from-amman-t15920/?partner_id=DRH67LO&cmp=DL_TourWadiRum

Great list of things to do in Jordon….All seems interesting….

Jordan is truly incredible – barren and beautiful! I’m looking forward to experiencing it soon.

You will love it. It is an amazing country.

Maps & Merlot

10 Top Tourist Attractions in Jordan

Take it from me, Jordan is a truly special place to be. The country may conjure images of camels and endless deserts, but I’m here to let you know Jordan is so much more (but yes, also lots of camels and sand). Jordan was previously known to me only through the legendary photos of Petra that pop up everywhere from screensavers to Pinterest images, so planning this trip was such a fun experience…and the good news is, the trip lived up to my sky-high expectations!

I finally visited Jordan this year and had an absolutely magical time, so I wanted to pass along my knowledge of the 10 top tourist attractions in Jordan that you have to add to your Jordan bucket list.

Read on for a breakdown of your absolute must-see spots and how to make the most of your time in Jordan. It was such an amazing trip for me, so I hope this guide to the top tourist attractions in Jordan will help you to plan your own epic trip!

This post many contain affiliate links.

First up is Petra – when you think of Jordan, you’re probably dreaming up images of Petra and the Treasury . This was probably what I was most excited about for my whole trip, and oh my goodness, it proved me right. Petra is jaw-dropping and belongs on the list of the top tourist attractions in Jordan. We rolled up to Petra at 6 AM opening time and then spent about 9 hours exploring the site.

A few must-sees: the Treasury (duh!), but also make sure to hike up to get those Insta-perfect views of the Treasury. A trip up to the Monastery is also 100% worth it. You can’t see it without exerting some effort and hiking up some stairs. To give you an idea of my activity level that day, I ended the day with 42,000 steps and 150 flights of stairs (thanks Fitbit)!

Some tours just show you the Treasury, but please take my word when I say you NEED to spend more time exploring . Petra was the absolute highlight of my trip and definitely at first on my list of top tourist attractions in Jordan, hands down.

As far as how to get there, Jordan does not have reliable public transportation that will take you everywhere you want to go, so you can either take a day tour to Petra from Amman or you could spend the night in Petra (hire a driver to take you there) and go in bright and early. I will say that entering at 6 AM was an incredible experience—we got to walk in without anybody in front of us, which gave the whole experience a truly special feel. This experience is a must-do for your Jordan bucket list.

One thing to note—Petra has donkeys that you can ride. However, my guide warned us NOT to ride them since they’re treated really poorly. Hiking up the stairs on my own two feet wasn’t too hard, so I wanted to pass along the message to please be nice to the donkeys!

2. Wadi Rum

Another must-do for your Jordan bucket list is visiting Wadi Rum. Wadi Rum is the largest wadi (valley) in Jordan; the valley has been inhabited by a whole variety of cultures since prehistoric times. One of the coolest things we did was to take a Jeep Ride around the desert and see carvings and rock paintings from thousands of years ago. Going in to the trip, I didn’t know much about the history of Jordan, so it was interesting to learn about the early civilizations.

Our Jeep also brought us to the desert arches that you could climb (or take jumping picture underneath), whatever you fancy. Next up, we went to an overlook to watch the sun set over the desert, which was an experience like no other. Be forewarned though—as soon as that sun started setting, the temperatures dropped sooooo fast. Bring lots of layers!

Staying in Wadi Rum:

While you’re in Wadi Rum, you have some options of places to stay. If you’re shooting for luxury, go to the Bubble Luxotel , which is exactly as it sounds. It’s a bubble in the middle of the desert that gives you gorgeous views of Wadi Rum. If you’re looking to “rough it,” try Wadi Rum Moon Camp , which is the kind of place we stayed. These accommodations are tents, but come with cozy blankets, a shared bathroom, and buffet breakfast. When else can you say you camped in a desert in Jordan? Sometimes you just have to do it!

Another unmissable experience is a desert night walk. Go with a guide—the desert can be dark and scary at night! One of my favorite parts was making a fire in the middle of the desert to warm up our tea and then sipping under the stars. It sounds magical, and it truly is—you just can’t make this stuff up!

Last up—while you’re in Wadi Rum, make sure to stop by the Bedouin tents and buy some tea. It’s a Jordanian tradition, which is lucky for me, since I’m a tea lover! Plus, it’s really cool to see a culture so different from your own.

To see Wadi Rum, you’re going to want a guide. This tour is a 3 day tour to Wadi Rum, Petra, Aqaba, and the Dead Sea —which will give you a lot of Jordan’s highlights. You can also do day tours, week tours of Jordan, etc.

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Next up on my list of top tourist attractions in Jordan is Jerash. Now raise your hand if you thought Jordan has ancient Roman cities…now before this adventure, I would not have raised my hand, but you can learn a lot.

Take some time to wander the ancient site, which looks like it could be ripped from the pages of Italian history. I also loved how the new city sprang up all around the ancient ruins, which gives a unique dichotomy of old versus new.

Jerash has archaeological evidence showing it dated back to the Neolithic Age (aka something like 7000 years ago)!!! Plus, it preserves history from the times of the Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. Hop on this tour of Jerash and Bethany to combine your trip to Jerash with a visit to Bethany. Bethany is the site where Jesus was baptized and also where early pilgrimage routes took place.

4. The Dead Sea

Your Jordan bucket list isn’t complete without a day tour to the Dead Sea . Take some time to float—I promise, you will! I’m terrible at floating, and even I had an easy time of it. Honestly, it’s a very strange experience to feel that buoyant.

There are a number of day resorts on the Dead Sea that offer places to rinse off, and you’re going to want that because the Dead Sea is seriously salty. Make a day of it and relax by the pool after your float.

One thing to mention—if you have sensitive skin (I do!), keep an eye on how your skin feels while you’re playing in the Dead Sea. I felt a bit itchy when I got out, but it was nothing a little fresh water couldn’t fix!

5. The Citadel

The Amman Citadel is a historical site in the center of downtown Amman. Inhabitants arrived sometime between 2000 and 10,000 BCE, quite a large window, I know! What that means is that the Citadel has history from so many different eras of time.

Today, it’s one of the top tourist attractions in Jordan. Hop on this Amman private sightseeing tour , which runs all hours of the day. You can see the Citadel, plus tons of other attractions in Amman.

While you’re visiting the Citadel, make sure to hit up some of my faves: the Temple of Hercules, the Hand of Hercules, and the Umayyad Palace.

6. Little Petra

Little Petra definitely doesn’t get the credit it deserves, which is actually kind of convenient for you and me. It’s so much less crowded than Petra itself. We stopped by late afternoon on our way to Wadi Musa (where we spent the night before our early adventure to Petra).

Like Petra, you can see buildings carved into sandstone canyons. Though it’s much smaller, it’s still worth a visit if you have the time. For me, it definitely belongs on the list of the top tourist attractions in Jordan.

Also, if you see a sign that says something like “best views in the world” with an arrow pointing the way , they are pretty gorgeous views, though I’m not sure if they’re my all-time favorite ever. I’ll let you judge in the photo below.

7. The Red Sea

Not to be confused with the Dead Sea, the Red Sea is completely different and has much more normal levels of salinity. Note: I did NOT float here. In any case, at our little end of the Red Sea, we were within only miles of Israel, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia.

We went boating to take in the awesome snorkeling, and it was completely different from my expectations. The fish looked like they belonged in the Caribbean, so it really surpassed everything I hoped to see.

One thing to note: whether you’re on a boat with a captain or choose to captain your own boat, do not boat too close to Israel. Our captain told us that the boat has gotten close in the past (mind you, you can very clearly see Israel from even the dock where we launched), and the Israeli military boat let off a warning shot . I’d stick with a captain in this instance. If you’re up for it, check out this day tour from the Dead Sea to the Red Sea to make the most of your time. The Red Sea was on my my top tourist attractions in Jordan and such a wonderful surprise!

To get to the Red Sea in Jordan, you’re going to venture to Aqaba; Aqaba is about a 4.5 hour drive or a super short flight from Amman. This city is on the top tourist attractions in Jordan list because it’s the only coastal city in Jordan and offers awesome access to beaches, diving, and snorkeling!

Most importantly, Aqaba is duty-free, which is basically the magic word in Jordan, since alcohol is taxed super heavily. In fact, I think the only alcohol I drank in all of Jordan was in Aqaba.

In addition to the beaches and snorkeling, you can find shopping, resorts, and entertainment. After some dusty days in the desert, it felt quite nice to treat myself in Aqaba!

9. Karak Castle

Karak Castle is something like 900 years old, which compared to the rest of Jordan’s history, seems very new! It’s a large Crusader Castle located in Al-Karak and was built to defend against Saladin’s forces. Explore the underground passages and turrets—another excellent history opportunity!

The day we were there was incredibly cold for some reason, so please excuse my very quickly taken photos…I was trying not to get frostbite on my fingers!

This tour of Karak and Shobak Castles will also take you to the Crusader Castle of Shobak, which also has underground passageways aplenty to explore!

10. Camel Ride

I couldn’t end this article of top tourist attractions in Jordan without mentioning a camel ride, am I right? The Bedouins historically traveled via camel, and those living in and around the desert still keep camels today. Your best bet to arrange a camel ride is in Wadi Rum—we went with a local Bedouin the guide recommended. If you want the true experience to ride through the deserts as inhabitants here have been doing for millennia, look no further.

Fun story: it’s so hard to sit on a camel! I was on for maybe an hour, and my bum was very uncomfortable and sore afterward. You might have noticed, but those humps are not exactly conducive to sitting…not to mention when they stand up and sit down—you’re going to want to hold on tight!

However, a camel ride at sunrise is a pretty unforgettable experience and definitely something that needs to be on your Jordan bucket list!

Transportation for the Top Tourist Attractions in Jordan

A few questions to consider: will you use Amman as a home base and venture out on day trips each day or do you prefer to move every night? The other thing to consider is if you prefer to self-drive, hire a driver, do day tours, or join a group tour. The biggest note is that you’re not going to be able to rely on public transportation, so plan ahead!

Interested in doing the same tour I did? I would highly recommend check out this Jordan Tour with G Adventures!

If you’re more comfortable on an organized tour, I would highly recommend G Adventures – the company designs small group tours with expert guides that can truly give you a local experience. I had such an amazing experience and cannot recommend the Jordan tour I took enough.

Where to Stay in Jordan

Alright, you have a VERY wide range of options for where to stay in Jordan. The Red Sea/ Aqaba are too far for a day trip, so you’ll need at least one night in Aqaba. Without further ado, here are some of my hotel suggestions in Amman and Aqaba:

Amman: In Amman, if you’re going for luxury (which is only $200 a night!), make sure to check out the Fairmont Amman , which is 5 stars and worth the splurge. If you’re looking for more moderate prices, the Amman International Hotel is for you. The biggest thing for me was making sure there was security at the front door so I felt 100% safe. I was willing to spend a little more to check that box! Another thing to consider – make sure your hotel has WiFi – it was less common than I expected, so just make sure to read the reviews.

Aqaba: I have similar suggestions for Aqaba, with an emphasis on the security. For top of the line, you can’t go wrong with Al Manara , which has a private beach area. If you plan to go to the beach in Aqaba, a private beach is your best bet. As a tall, blonde female, I already got way more attention than I wanted; everyone I spoke with warned me away from public beaches. The Intercontinental Aqaba is another safe bet—say hello to a private beach, lagoon pool, and spa.

Cheap Flights to Jordan

I can’t say I loved my flight to Jordan since it involved a 10 hour layover in Germany…cue trying to stay awake after flying all night and then opting to drink German wine. These decisions may have resulted in a quality airport nap. However, if you’re looking for affordable flights, check out   eDreams – the site will scan 450+ airlines to find you the best deal! And now you all know my secret…Shhhhh. I personally ended up flying to Bucharest, Romania afterward. The flight was SOOO cheap, so if you find yourself in the same boat, check out my guide to 3 days in Bucharest.

One last thing—you can take public transport to your hotel, but if it’s super early and you can’t see straight yet, consider booking an airport transfer from Queen Alia airport in advance.  And that’s all for today—everything you need to know about my version of the 10 top tourist attractions in Jordan.

Let’s hear your opinion – what are some of your top things to do in Jordan? Anything else I should add to this Jordan bucket list?

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I’m pretty surprised by the pictures you managed to take. What camera do you use?

I use a mirror less camera – Sony alpha 5100 (I think) and absolutely love it! Also think there was a picture of two from my friends phone haha 🙂

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Jordan Tourist Attractions

Jordan tourist attractions are unlike anything you’re likely to see elsewhere. When you explore Jordan, you’re undertaking an unforgettable journey through time. Explore the stone carved Lost City of Petra; visit the site where Jesus was baptized; discover the vastness of desert canyons and enjoy wonderful hospitality every step of the way.

→  Egypt and Jordan Tours – Click to Find and Book Your Dream Tour Now

The Best Amman Tourist Attractions

Rose City Of Petra – A Striking Prehistoric Rock Carved City

Ancient City Of Jerash – One Of Jordan’s Most Intriguing Sites

Dead Sea In Jordan – Visiting The World’s Most Infamous Lake

Wadi Rum – Visiting Jordan’s Unspoiled Valley Of The Moon

Karak Castle – One Of The Largest Crusader Castles Ever Built

Roman Theatre In Amman – A Legacy Of The Roman Empire

Qasr Al-Abd – One of Jordan’s Most Mysterious Monuments

Mount Nebo In Jordan – One Of The Most Famous Pilgrimage Sites

Little Petra – The Second Lost City of the Nabateans

Montreal Crusader Castle in Jordan – The Fortress That Took 2 Years to Conquer

The Amman Citadel – One of Jordan’s Most Promising Archeological Discoveries

Qasr Al-Mshatta – The Winter Retreat of a Short Reigning Caliph

The Cave of the Seven Sleepers – An Often Overlooked Gem

Azraq Wetland Reserve – A Story of Demise and Rebirth

Dana Biosphere Reserve – Jordan’s Largest Nature Reserve

Ma’in Hot Springs – One of Jordan’s Best Kept Secrets

Ajloun Castle – A Famous Landmark Reminiscent Of A Complex Past

Madaba City Of Mosaics And St. George Greek Orthodox Church

Abu Darwish Mosque – A Gem on One of Amman’s 7 Mounts

Amman, Jordan – An Ancient City Inhabited Ever Since 7250 BC

Jordan Valley – An Exquisite Portrait Of Jordan’s Ancient Past

Umm Ar-Rasas – The Biblical Settlement of Mephaat

Qasr Azraq – The Blue Fortress that Outlived other Desert Castles

Qasr Amra – Possibly the Most Fascinating of Jordan’s Desert Castles

Mujib Nature Reserve – Possibly Jordan’s Most Beautiful Natural Attraction

Qasr Al-Kharana – Jordan’s Best-Preserved Desert Castle

Wadi Umm Ishrin – Ancient Inscriptions And Vast Sand Dunes

Lawrence’s Spring And The Amazing Unspoiled Beauty Of Wadi Rum

The King Abdullah Mosque in Amman – A Spectacular Jordanian Gem

Folklore Museum Amman And The Museum Of Popular Traditions

As-Salt, Jordan – An Ancient City Founded By Alexander The Great

Amman Archaeological Museum – A True Ancient Treasure Trove

Irbid Jordan – An Historical City Born During The Bronze Age

Click here to find a brief guide to the top Jordan tourist attractions

Jordan Tourist Attractions Are Historic And Breathtaking

If you watch movies, it is likely that you’ve seen some of the top Jordan tourist attractions. After all, spots like Petra, the Roman theater in Amman, the Dead Sea, and the Wadi Rum have all served as locations for some of the cinema’s top stories.

This proves that Jordan is a must-see destination, and that many of Jordan’s attractions will be without crowds of other tourists or travelers. In fact, many of them are simply stunning natural locations that are the result of eons of desert wind and sand, water erosion, and simple time.

So, whether you are thinking of visiting Jordan to see the top Jordan attractions or as part of a broader tour of the Middle East, you need to know some of the most impressive places to see in Jordan.

Learn About The Top Jordan Attractions

The list of the most appealing Jordan tourist attractions is actually quite long, but to make it easier to get a good understanding of them we’ll look at them thematically. Let’s start with those natural locations that are always worth the effort of reaching them.

Natural Tourist Sites In Jordan

The Dead Sea – The most famous lake in the world, this is also the most saline. Shared with Israel, this body of water is lined with mineral deposits that provide healing mud baths, and a float in the salty water is not to be missed.

The Valley of the Moon – Known officially as Wadi Rum, this is close to the city of Aqaba and is among the most popular of all Jordan tourist attractions. It is also home to prehistoric sites in addition to being impressive for its beauty.

Lawrence’s Spring – Close to Wadi Rum (and the archaeological site of Petra) is this all natural spring where the legendary Lawrence of Arabia was known to have bathed.

Jordan Valley – Massive and impressive, it stretches along through several different regions and includes desert as well as mountainous land. Stretches of ripe agricultural land as well as arid and barren regions are found here, and an entire journey could be dedicated to exploring this area.

These Jordan tourist attractions are the most frequently toured, and yet you rarely encounter fellow travelers. You will always want a guide when visiting these regions simply because they are so enormous and you could waste your precious time in Jordan in spots less scenic when a guide could ensure you see the very best locations.

Man-made Historical Places To See In Jordan

There are also many man-made attractions throughout Jordan, and a list of these top Jordan tourist attractions has to include:

Petra – The Rose City is so otherworldly that it is an official UNESCO World Heritage Site. Carved elaborately into the rocks of the desert it is hidden from plain sight and requires a special journey to explore it.

Jerash – The ruins of this ancient city are among some of the most haunting and mysterious you may encounter anywhere in the world. It is all that remains of a once proud civilization, and it was actually lost to time before rediscovery in the 1800s.

Amman – With its Roman theater, this ancient city has proven itself to be one of the most worthwhile of all Jordan tourist attractions simply because of its unbelievable age. Known to have been inhabited for almost ten thousand years, it is also the modern capital city.

Karak Castle – If Templar Knights and the Crusades are of interest, this enormous castle is for you.

Irbid – This Bronze Age city is a must see destination for history buffs, but it is also essential to anyone who appreciates architecture. Surprisingly located in one of the most populated locations in all of Jordan, this is a spot not to miss.

Madaba – Here you find the amazing City of Mosaics, as well as the St. George Orthodox Church. The latter is among the most treasured of historic sites and historians often identify it as crucial to their understanding of the region’s history.

Ajloun Castle – Built in the 1100s, it is one of the hottest of all Jordan tourist attractions because of its history and beauty.

As-Salt – Alexander the Great founded this ancient city, and it played a key role in the development of trade in the region.

Naturally, there is much more to see and do when in Jordan, and this is why we have strongly suggested booking a guided tour. Some of the best tour providers include Jordan in comprehensive tours of other areas in the Middle East, and many of these tours have a historic emphasis.

Choosing Your Egypt And Jordan Tour

As an example of this, EgyptToursPlus has a lot of experience in Jordan tours, offering visits to Petra, Aqaba, Wadi Rum, and many of the other popular Jordan tourist attractions. Covering a majority of the most appealing and popular tourist destinations, the tours offered ensure that visitors do more than just “skim the surface” of this fascinating destination. Stops at some of the most captivating natural and historic locations ensure that travelers go home feeling they have truly experienced and encountered this rich and diverse land. Visiting markets and museums in the cities, walking and exploring some of the remote and yet charming historical sites…this is what makes a dream holiday.

EgyptTousPlus is also a rare firm offering visitors the luxury of combining visits to Egypt and Jordan, and all in the company of experienced tour guides and providers. Imagine what it would be like to visit the pyramids of Giza and see the temples of Luxor and also walk the desert sands to see Petra and dip in the Dead Sea…this is possible with a combination tour of Jordan and Egypt . You can also find even broader packages that include locations like Turkey and Israel too.

If you have been dreaming of visiting the sights throughout Jordan, whether wildly popular or lesser known, book your tour with an experienced firm that will allow you to pay a visit to all of your must see Jordan tourist attractions . Be sure they include the familiar and famous spots, as well as some of those not so famous spots, too.

Last Updated on February 18, 2022

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Charter Flight Group, Jordan Brown facing $1.275 million lawsuit

A New Jersey travel agency is suing Jet Genius, Charter Flight Group, and Jordan Brown after allegedly failing to refund monies from a canceled charter flight.

By Doug Gollan , 4 hours ago

Jet Genius Holdings, Charter Flight Group, and its principal, Jordan Brown, are being sued for $1.275 million.

According to the lawsuit, filed last week in the Southern District of Florida, the plaintiff, New Jersey-based Plane Talk Travel, Inc., contracted with the Charter Flight Group , which also goes by CFG, for a charter flight from Tel Aviv to Newark.

The travel agency allegedly paid CFG $630,785 for the one-way flight aboard an Airbus A330, which never took place.

Its filing claims, “Pursuant to the terms of the agreement, having failed to provide the charter flight, CFG was obligated to return the entire charter price to PTT (Plane Talk Travel).”

It further states, “Despite the fact that Mr. Brown, on behalf of CFG, admitted in writing to PTT that CFG was obligated to return the entire charter price to PTT, CFG has refused to do so, instead returning only $205,785.00 of the charter price to PTT, leaving a balance of $425,000 of the charter price that remains due and owing to PTT, exclusive of interest and attorney’s fees.”

What’s next?

Brown tells Private Jet Card Comparisons, “We believe we owe Plane Talk Travel a certain monetary amount and look forward to a quick resolution.”

However, Maurice J. Baumgarten of Torricella Law, who filed the action, says, “We’ve been trying to get Jordan Brown and Charter Flight Group to pay the monies they admit they owe, and they have refused, leaving us no other choice but to proceed with this lawsuit. Now it’s going to cost them a lot more.”

The lawsuit seeks “treble damages in the amount of $1,275,000, pre-and post-judgment interest, expenses, attorney’s fees, court costs, and any and all such further relief as this Court deems just and proper.”

Baumgarten said his client was left scrambling after the cancelation and is out of pocket after having reimbursed its travel agency clients who paid for the flight.

READ: JetGenius May 2024 Lawsuit Filing

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• International

May 7, 2024 Israel-Hamas war

By Kathleen Magramo, Jessie Yeung, Rob Picheta, Angela Dewan, Christian Edwards, Tara John and Tori B. Powell, CNN

Our live coverage of  Israel's war in Gaza has moved here.

At least 27 people have been killed in Rafah since Monday. Here's what you should know

From CNN staff

At least 27 people , including six women and nine children, were killed in  Rafah since Monday evening, CNN confirmed through hospital sources in the southern Gaza city.

Israel's military has seized control of the Gazan side of the Rafah crossing , an Israeli military official said Tuesday. International pressure is growing against Israel following the seizure and after it refused to rule out a full-scale invasion in Rafah.

And on Tuesday, rockets were fired from the Rafah area in the Gaza Strip toward Kerem Shalom and the Re’im area of southern Israel, according to the Israel Defense Forces.

Here are other headlines you should know:

Rafah offensive and hospital crises:

• Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel’s military operation in  Rafah  serves the twin goals of returning the hostages held in Gaza and eliminating Hamas. Benny Gantz, a member of Israel’s war cabinet, said the Israeli military’s operations in  Rafah  will “ continue and expand as necessary.”
• The last remaining operational hospital in Rafah has issued a call for all available medical teams to help with the constant influx of injured patients arriving at the medical facility. 

The remaining field hospitals in the area of an eastern Rafah hospital that was evacuated Monday will only be able to provide less than one-third of its offered services, according to the hospital medical director.

Ceasefire negotiations:

• Hamas’ latest written response in ongoing  ceasefire negotiations  said the group intends to offer Israel the corpses of dead hostages in addition to hostages who are still alive, during the first phase of the truce, according to sources familiar with the talks. A senior representative of Hamas says the proposed deal it agreed to includes the “ withdrawal of the occupation from the Gaza Strip.”
• CIA Director Bill Burns returned to Cairo on Tuesday for more talks, a source familiar with the meetings told CNN, as the US and other mediators look to revive an effort to bring about a ceasefire-for-hostages deal.

Aid into Gaza:

• The US finished the offshore construction of the temporary humanitarian pier system, also known as JLOTS, meant to get aid into Gaza, according to the Defense Department.
• US National security spokesperson John Kirby stressed it is “ absolutely critical ” that Israel allow humanitarian aid into Gaza after Israel’s military seized control of crossings at Kerem Shalom and Rafah, blocking two vital points for aid into the Strip. According to State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, Israel “ has committed to reopen ” the  Kerem Shalom  crossing on Wednesday.

US President Joe Biden delivers speech on antisemitism:

• Biden on Tuesday opened a speech on antisemitism at the US Capitol honoring the victims of the Holocaust and warning that the memories of that genocide might be sliding from the public's perception.
• Biden drew connections between the Holocaust and the October 7 attack on Israel and pointed to a " ferocious surge " in antisemitism in the US since the October 7 attack, while offering a sweeping call for a return to the nation's values.

Ongoing campus protests:

• Students in the Spanish capital set up a pro-Palestinian protest encampment at the Complutense University of Madrid on Tuesday. Like many of their counterparts around the world , the several dozen students are asking the university to divest from Israel-linked businesses and entities, as well as requesting the Spanish government cut diplomatic and commercial ties with Israel, according to a CNN en Español team on the ground.

Rafah hospital director says closure will severely impact health care in the area

From CNN's Kareem Khadder

The evacuation to Kareem “happened against our will” after the Israel Defense Forces told people in eastern Rafah they must leave the area, according to Abu Yusuf Najjar Hospital medical director Marwan Al-Homss.

Al Homss confirmed the hospital is now out of service including care for nearly 400 kidney dialysis patients. He said after it closed, vandalism started that led to the theft of fuel that was running the generators.

Hospital crews didn't leave until all patients were evacuated, he said.

“They were afraid for their lives, and afraid of being killed because of previous instances where Israelis abuse the patients and medical crews,” Al-Homss said. “Now, with this hospital being out of service, the remaining field hospitals won't be able to account for 30% of the services Abu Yusuf Najjar provided.”

 Al-Homss said that over the past 48 hours, more than 56 people in the area had been killed, of whom 40% were children.

CNN is unable to confirm his estimate.

IDF says nearly 20 rockets fired from Rafah Tuesday

From CNN's Lauren Izso

Rockets were fired from the Rafah area in the Gaza Strip Tuesday toward Kerem Shalom and the Re’im area of southern Israel, according to the Israel Defense Forces.

Six projectiles were fired toward Kerem Shalom, the IDF said. 

“The projectiles that were fired toward the area of the Kerem Shalom Crossing are preventing the entry of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip. The IDF will continue to operate to enable the necessary security conditions to re-open the Kerem Shalom Crossing,” the IDF said.

The Kerem Shalom crossing, one of the main conduits for humanitarian aid into Gaza, was closed Sunday after a rocket attack nearby killed four Israeli soldiers. It is due to reopen Wednesday, according to the US State Department.

The IDF said about 12 projectiles were also identified crossing from the area of Rafah in southern Gaza into the area of Re'im earlier today. The IDF Aerial Defense Array successfully intercepted five of the projectiles and the rest fell in an open area. No injuries were reported.

“Within less than an hour, IAF aircraft struck the launcher that fired toward Israel.”

Analysis: Hamas has proposed a ceasefire deal. Here’s why it won’t bring an immediate end to the war

From CNN's Nadeen Ebrahim

When Hamas declared on Monday evening that it has “agreed” to a ceasefire deal, it caught many off guard. Israel was evidently not expecting it, and it was not even immediately clear what Hamas had agreed to.

Hamas’ announcement was initially met with jubilation in Gaza and cautious optimism by regional leaders after it was presented as an acceptance of an Israeli proposal. But Israel issued what looked like a holding position, saying that Hamas’ position was “far from” meeting its demands.

And it pressed on with a controversial military operation in Rafah, southern Gaza, conducting air strikes on Monday and seizing control of the Palestinian side of a border crossing with Egypt on Tuesday morning amid intense pressure from his hardline coalition to go all-in.

At the same time, Israel said that it would send a delegation to Cairo to assess Hamas’ position. The CIA director, Bill Burns, also arrived in Cairo on Tuesday morning.

So what’s going on? Find out here:

Hamas has proposed a ceasefire deal. Here's why that won't bring an immediate end to the war in Gaza | CNN

Us has completed humanitarian pier construction off gaza shore.

From CNN's Michael Conte and Natasha Bertrand

The US has finished the offshore construction of the temporary humanitarian pier system, also known as JLOTS, meant to get aid into Gaza, according to the Defense Department.

“As of today, the construction of the two portions of the JLOTS, the floating pier and the Trident pier, are complete and awaiting final movement offshore,” announced Pentagon Deputy Press Secretary Sabrina Singh at a briefing.

However, due to weather, the US military is unable to move the pier into position to be anchored ashore in Gaza, according to Singh.

“Today there are still forecasted high winds and high sea swells, which are causing unsafe conditions for the JLOTS components to be moved, so the pier sections and military vessels involved in its construction are still positioned at the Port of Ashdod,” said Singh.

But Singh added that the US is loading aid meant to be unloaded at the temporary pier on the ship MV Sagamore, which is currently in Cyprus. 

“The Sagamore is a cargo vessel that will use the JLOTS system, and will make trips between Cyprus and the offshore floating pier as USAID and other partners collect aid from around the world,” said Singh.

CNN first reported last week that the Sagamore will be the first vessel used to transport the aid from Cyprus to the pier, but US officials hope that aid groups will eventually begin contracting their own vessels to deliver the aid. 

Singh also said that while the pier's movement would depend on weather and security conditions, the Defense Department hopes to have it in position “later this week.” 

Hamas official says proposed deal includes Israeli withdrawal from Gaza

From CNN's Kareem Khadder and Tim Lister

A senior representative of Hamas says the proposed deal it agreed to includes the “withdrawal of the occupation from the Gaza Strip.”

Osama Hamdan, a member of Hamas’ political bureau, told a news conference in Beirut that the proposed deal would secure "the main issues of the demands of our people and our resistance in stopping the aggression permanently, the withdrawal of the occupation from the entire Gaza Strip, the free return of the displaced, relief, reconstruction, ending the siege, and achieving a real and serious exchange deal.”

Hamdan said the proposed deal's three phases would be continuously implemented, claiming that Israel wanted “to complete one stage, in which it would achieve the release of its prisoners held by the resistance, and then resume its aggression against the Gaza Strip.”

Referring to Egypt and Qatar, Hamdan said that “the mediator brothers, if their proposal is approved…will have a role in completing all stages of the agreement, and putting pressure on the occupation to adhere to its provisions and implement them.”

Israel has said there are significant gaps between what Hamas has agreed to and what was on the table in previous rounds of negotiations. In a statement Tuesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that the Hamas proposal “was designed to torpedo the entry of our forces into Rafah. That did not happen.”

Netanyahu said that “as the war cabinet unanimously determined, the Hamas proposal was very far from Israel's core demands.”

The White House said Tuesday that a close reading of Israel and Hamas’ separate negotiating positions on a hostage deal indicates the two sides should be able to strike an agreement.

National security spokesman John Kirby's comment was a fresh sign of optimism about the state of hostage talks after they appeared to stall Monday. CIA Director Bill Burns was in Cairo Tuesday for continued discussions.

US State Department walks back "prelude" comment on Israeli operation in Rafah

From CNN's Jennifer Hansler

US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller walked back his comment that Israel's seizure of the Rafah crossing looked like a "prelude" to a major military operation, saying, “we don’t know if it’s a prelude or not.”

He had earlier told a press conference that the seizure of the Rafah crossing between Egypt and Gaza looks like a "prelude" to a major military operation.

“They have described it as limited. It looks at this (point) to not be the major operation that you would see say, for example, if they entered the neighborhoods where they ordered the evacuations,” Miller said when asked about his earlier comments at the State Department briefing.

“They have made clear that they intend to launch a major military operation and we have made clear that we are opposed to that,” Miller added.

Satellite imagery shows a fire in eastern Rafah and border movements

By CNN's Paul P. Murphy

New satellite imagery from Maxar Technologies shows how the area near to the Egypt-Gaza Rafah crossing has changed in the hours since Israel's operation there. The images were taken this afternoon at 2:26 p.m. local time. 

One image shows a fire at the Arab Mall in eastern Rafah, just a mile north of the Egypt-Gaza crossing. It's unclear what started the fire, but there have been Israeli military strikes in the area. 

In northern Rafah, the area filled with tents from refugees appears to remain largely unchanged from days past. 

On the Egyptian side of the border, aid trucks that had gathered at the Egyptian border complex have since been moved into a buffer zone near the Gaza border. In recent months, Egypt worked to bulldoze the area and build a new wall along its Gaza border.

The roadway connecting the Egypt-Gaza border is also seen sealed on the Egyptian side by large cement walls. Egypt has periodically sealed this roadway section at the border since the start of the Israeli incursion into Gaza.  

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