jordan tour itinerary

5-7 Days in Jordan: Itinerary for an Unforgettable Adventure

There are so many things to love about visiting Jordan, from the majesty of Petra to the otherworldly landscape of Wadi Rum to the fact that with even 5 days in Jordan, you can craft a Jordan itinerary that you’ll never forget!

Jordan’s small size and ease of travel make it a fantastic introduction to the Middle East.

No matter how long you have to explore, you’ll no doubt leave some stones unturned… but have even more once-in-a-lifetime experiences along the way.

With less than a week in Jordan, you can visit a wide variety of the country’s iconic attractions, including floating in the Dead Sea, exploring some of the best-preserved Roman ruins outside of Italy, camping in Wadi Rum, riding a camel, and hiking through the Lost City of Petra.

… and that’s just the beginning.

If you’re short on time but hoping to plan an itinerary for Jordan that will leave you with cherished lifelong memories, this 5, 6, or 7 day Jordan itinerary will help!

Table of Contents

How We Structured This Jordan Itinerary

Renting a car for your jordan road trip (or not), don’t forget your jordan pass, the perfect 5 days in jordan itinerary, if you have 6 days in jordan…, if you have 7 days in jordan…, the best time to road trip jordan, what to pack for a week in jordan, 5-7 day jordan itinerary map.

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We designed this 5-7 day Jordan itinerary as a loop beginning and ending in Amman.

It is primarily intended as a road trip–and yes, you can absolutely road trip Jordan with relative ease!

However, if you don’t want to drive, through a combination of organized tours, public transportation, and/or private transfers, you can easily spend a week in Jordan without a car, as well.

This itinerary is intended for travelers enjoying their first trip to Jordan who are hoping to hit up the country’s biggest highlights in a very limited time.

And, since Jordan is such a small and easy-to-navigate country, that is quite doable!

If you drove this route straight through without detours, it would include a little over 12 hours of driving in the whole loop.

Taking a road trip in Jordan is an absolute delight, and this itinerary is perfect for doing so!

Jordan’s roads are well-marked and (outside of Amman), fairly simple to navigate.

When renting a car in Jordan, we recommend shopping for your rental car through  Discover Cars , which will allow you to sift through all your options and choose the right car for you based on price, the reputation of the company that is renting it, and the terms of the rental contract.

Prefer not to drive?

You can still have a fantastic time in Jordan!

While navigating this itinerary via public transportation alone would be cumbersome, guided tours can offer excellent value for money and keep your trip planning simple.

Basing yourself primarily in Amman and booking a multi-day tour like this to see Petra and Wadi Rum, and then supplementing with day trips like this to places like Jerash, is absolutely a valid way to have a fantastic Jordan vacation.

Shop rental cars and/or guided tours for your trip to Jordan today!

For virtually all travelers planning a trip to Jordan based on this itinerary, the Jordan Pass is a must-buy before you go!

The pass is organized by the Jordanian government and includes entrance fees to more than 40 of the top attractions in Jordan, including Petra, Wadi Rum, Jerash, and many more.

It also covers the cost of your visa on arrival!

The pricing of the pass is structured in such a way that once you account for the cost of your visa and entrance to Petra, the pass has already paid for itself, making it an easy win.

However, make sure that you purchase and download your pass before flying into Amman!

When we went through immigration, the family next to us in line ended up having to purchase a separate visa because they only screenshotted their pass confirmation and didn’t download it before arriving.

Day 1 in Jordan: Explore the ruins of Jerash and float in the Dead Sea.

If you’re trying to see Jordan in 5 days, you’ll want to hit the ground running as soon as you land in the country!

After getting your rental car in Amman, drive north to explore one of the best-preserved Roman cities outside of Italy.

Explore the Roman city of Jerash.

Stepping foot inside Jerash is an incredible experience, and it reminded me immediately of exploring Pompeii in Italy (but in Jordan, we got to start our visit with a freshly squeezed pomegranate juice in hand).

Don’t miss the magnificent South Theater (climb to the top for the full effect–the acoustics are incredible), Oval Plaza, or Cardo Maximus column-lined street.

You’ll also find beautiful temples, including ones dedicated to Zeus and Artemis, in Jerash.

Head to the Dead Sea to float your worries away.

Once you wrap up at Jerash, make your way to the Dead Sea, where you can float your worries away in one of the most unique landscapes on Earth!

Jordan’s side of the Dead Sea lends itself to luxurious resorts with private beaches that are more affordable than you might think.

… And, since the Dead Sea is shrinking every year, it’s worth a bit of a splurge.

This is one of those “experience-it-while-you-can” attractions!

Plus, floating in the Dead Sea, while iconic, doesn’t take very long, making it easy to fit into a 5 day Jordan itinerary.

Due to the salt content in the water, it’s recommended to only stay in the water for 15 minutes or so per visit.

We loved our stay at the gorgeous Dead Sea Marriot Resort and would be thrilled to stay again!

Check rates & book your stay at the Dead Sea Marriot Resort!

Day 2 in Jordan: Spend the night camping in Wadi Rum.

After waking up at the Dead Sea, enjoying the gigantic breakfast spread at the Dead Sea Marriot Resort , and possibly going for a morning float, it’s time to head south!

The final destination of your second day in Jordan is the otherworldly Wadi Rum, but consider making a quick detour before you go!

Wander through Kerak Castle.

Kerak Castle (often also written as Alkarak Castle) is one of the largest and best-preserved Crusader Castles in Jordan.

Dating to the 1100s, everything from the castle’s structures to the views here are incredible, and it’s a fascinating side stop during your road trip in Jordan.

Drive to the incredible Wadi Rum Protected Area.

After seeing the castle, make your way to Wadi Rum for one of the most memorable nights of your life!

The Wadi Rum Protected Area is, more or less, a desert landscape that looks like Mars crossed with Utah .

It’s the traditional home of Bedouin people, who host guests like us in their special landscape today.

It’s also a popular filming location (see: Lawrence of Arabia, Star Wars, Dune, and many more).

Wadi Rum is a magnificent destination and hands down one of the best places to visit in Jordan.

We’ve written an entire guide to Wadi Rum to help you plan your trip in detail, but here’s the short version: this afternoon, take either a camel or Jeep tour, and then spend the night at a Bedouin Camp.

Camps range from extremely basic to the famous and luxurious Bubble Luxotel .

We opted for the middle-of-the-road Candles Camp and had a fantastic time!

Check rates & book your stay in Wadi Rum today!

Day 3 in Jordan: Adventure across Wadi Rum and drive to Petra.

We go over this in more detail in our Wadi Rum guide , but essentially, your time in Wadi Rum should absolutely include both a Jeep tour and a camel ride!

The Jeep tour takes much longer and is a great option for this morning (however, you can also do a sunset Jeep tour and sunrise camel tour instead–it all depends on your exact schedule).

Once you wrap up exploring the majestic beauty of Wadi Rum, it’s time to drive to Petra!

The drive to Petra (or more specifically, Wadi Musa, the modern village outside of Petra) from Wadi Rum takes a couple of hours, give or take.

In other words, you can take your time enjoying Wadi Rum and plan to arrive in Wadi Musa to settle in for the next day, which will arguably be the busiest of your trip!

Day 4 in Jordan: Marvel at the Lost City of Petra.

The crown jewel of any trip to Jordan, the Lost City of Petra more than lived up to our sky-high expectations!

While the famous Treasury is just as incredible as described, the full experience of visiting Petra, from the Monastery to the Siq slot canyon to the lesser-known highlights like the Royal Tombs, is beyond words.

Like other incredible ruin sites around the world such as Pompeii , Angkor Wat , Becan , and more, part of the incredible appeal of Petra lies not just in its photogenic attractions but in the fact that you can truly feel the layout of the city as you explore.

While it would be very easy to spend several days exploring all that Petra has to offer, with only 5 days in Jordan to work with, it’s realistic to plan for one.

How to Structure Your Day in Petra, Jordan

In order to make the most of your one day in Petra, we highly recommend taking advantage of Petra’s lesser-used “back door”.

By using the back door, you’ll first hike to the Monastery (or Ad Dier) at the back of the park, and then walk to the main entrance in Wadi Musa throughout the day, passing by all of Petra’s highlights and saving the Treasury for the grand finale.

You’ll also be able to reverse the 800+ step climb to the Monastery and go down the steps instead!

This is an official entrance, though barely used compared to the crowded front gate.

We absolutely adored using this method and felt that we were able to make the most of our time in Petra without feeling rushed, since we knew we didn’t have to turn around and hike back out.

Your hotel can help you arrange transport to the back door–we stayed at Petra Aretas Hotel and they were great about arranging a ride for us, with a mini-tour on the way!

Petra Aretas Hotel also served a great breakfast and is located within walking distance of the main entrance of Petra.

We loved our stay and would be happy to check in again.

Check rates & book your stay at Petra Aretas Hotel!

Day 5 in Jordan: Make your way back to Amman (with sightseeing stops).

On the final day of your 5 day Jordan itinerary, it’s time to make your way back to Amman.

Assuming you have most of a day to work with, though, you’ll find plenty of incredible sightseeing opportunities as you road trip from Wadi Musa back to Amman!

Here are just a few sights to consider adding to your list of things to do in Jordan.

To appreciate a different side of Jordan’s impressive history, enjoy a quick stop in the charming city of Madaba.

While there are a handful of interesting sights and a shopping street to peruse, without a doubt Madaba’s top attraction is the intricate 6th-century mosaic map of the Holy Land, found on the floor of the Church of Saint George.

Known as the Madaba Map, this striking mosaic is considered to be the oldest surviving map of the Holy Land.

The Baptismal Site of Jesus Christ

Just north of the Dead Sea in Jordan, you’ll find the reported Baptism Site of Jesus Christ, which for thousands of years has been considered the location where John the Baptist baptized Jesus.

While the site is very popular (you can even be baptized there if you choose), it’s also highly managed and a bit–dare I say it–commercialized.

If you’d like to visit, you’ll need to join a group tour, and admission is not included in most Jordan Passes.

Mount Nebo is a highly significant site in the Abrahamic religions and is believed to be the place where Moses glimpsed the Holy Land before he died.

Today, you’ll find sweeping views, beautiful memorials, and art from several cultures on top of the mountain–and on a clear day, you can even see all the way to Jerusalem!

The Moses Memorial Church is a striking blend of extremely old (the church originally dates to the 4th century), and the extremely new, with a 21st-century building surrounding historic mosaics.

King’s Highway Viewpoints

There are two essential roads in Jordan that you’ll hear a lot about when planning a Jordan road trip: the Desert Highway (fast, efficient, but a bit dull), and the King’s Highway (which takes longer, but is also more scenic).

For this 5-7 day Jordan itinerary, we recommend driving part of the Desert Highway on your way to Wadi Rum (when your schedule is more packed) and then taking the King’s Highway all the way up as you head north.

You’ll come across plenty of striking viewpoints as you travel, so be sure to safely pull over and snap photos at a few!

We personally found the northern section of the King’s Highway more scenic than the southern section.

Where to Stay For Your Final Night in Jordan

If your experience is like ours (and for many of your guys flying back out of the region, it will be), your flight out of Jordan will leave very, very early in the morning.

To make life a little easier on ourselves, we checked into this peaceful hotel near the airport for the “night” (our wakeup call to head to the airport was at 1:00 AM).

The rooms were comfortable and the service excellent.

They were even able to call us a taxi and ensure that we were picked up on time, making our bleary-eyed final few hours in Jordan much less stressful.

Check rates & book your stay at The Opal Hotel!

Add a day in Amman.

With 6 days in Jordan, you should absolutely add a day in Amman!

Jordan’s lively capital city offers a chance to see a completely different side of the country than the wild country landscapes and archaeological sites do.

Tour the famous Amman Citadel (and soak in its incredible views), explore the Roman Theater (that is still used for performances!), and visit Rainbow Street.

The King Abdullah I Mosque is one of the only mosques in Jordan that non-Muslims can enter, and is also worth seeing.

If it fits into your schedule, the Jordan Museum is also well worth a visit–some of the Dead Sea Scrolls are on display there!

For cheap and delicious eats, don’t miss the famous falafel and hummus at Hashem Restaurant, or the delicious kunefe located just up the road at Habibah.

Slow down or add a day in Aqaba.

Our number one itinerary suggestion if you have a full week in Jordan to work with is simply to slow down!

This suggested route is incredibly packed, and while that’s sustainable for 5-6 days in order to pack in Jordan’s best sights with very limited time, you can’t keep it up forever.

A second day spent in Petra, Wadi Rum, or even the Dead Sea area can add a lot of depth to your trip without having to find yet another hotel to stay in.

If you’re feeling energized, though, a 7 day Jordan itinerary could also be expanded to include a day of scuba diving and/or snorkeling in Aqaba.

Other options include a hike in a slot canyon like Wadi Mujib, time spent in the Dana Biosphere Reserve, or a soak in the Ma’in Hot Springs.

For something more history-focused, visiting another one of Jordan’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Quesir Amra or Um er-Rasas are also very interesting options.

While you can absolutely enjoy a week in Jordan year-round, spring and fall are considered the optimal times to visit in order to balance crowds and weather.

Summer can be searing hot, however, it’s also the best time to go scuba diving down in Aqaba–if you’re a diver, you may choose to brave the heat inland in order to optimize your time at the Red Sea!

If you plan a winter trip to Jordan, don’t assume you’ll stay warm!

Winters in Jordan can definitely get cold, and you may even experience snow in Amman.

We took our Jordan road trip in March and enjoyed excellent, mild weather throughout our trip.

Here are a few essentials that you should definitely add to your packing list as you prepare for 5 days in Jordan (or more!).

Travel Insurance  — We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen, and a fast-paced road trip is definitely a case of better safe than sorry.

We use and recommend  Safety Wing  for trips to Jordan.

Travel Adaptors for Jordan — Unfortunately, Jordan uses several different kinds of plugs (we saw at least 3 kinds during our trip).

To cover most of your bases, you’ll definitely want both European-style adaptors and UK-style adaptors with you.

Many hotels will also supply adaptors in Jordan, as the situation is confusing, but not all do!

Pacsafe  — We can’t recommend our Pacsafe enough!

This travel safe is affordable, sturdy, easy to pack, and will help keep your valuables safe in your hotel room (not that you should need to worry much about theft in Jordan, but it’s better to be safe than sorry!).

Hands-Free Phone Mount  — This is especially important if you don’t have a reliable co-pilot: the last thing you want to do is be fumbling with the GPS on your phone during your road trip in Andalucia.

Pack a cell phone holder to attach to the car and you’ll be able to drive much more safely!

Jordan Pass — I already mentioned this above, but it bears repeating!

With this itinerary for Jordan, you will absolutely benefit from pre-purchasing a Jordan Pass.

Additional Car Insurance  — Whether you purchase a policy that covers car rental (only some do, so double-check!), purchase a policy through the rental car company, or something else, be sure you have coverage: it’s worth the peace of mind.

Portable USB Charger — Don’t stress about your phone dying when sightseeing or camping!

Our USB charger was a lifesaver during our night camping in Wadi Rum, as the plugs at our camp weren’t compatible with our devices.

Camera  — We absolutely adore our  Sony a7R III , but whatever camera you’re comfortable with works.

Just make sure you have something with you to preserve your memories!

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

6 thoughts on “5-7 Days in Jordan: Itinerary for an Unforgettable Adventure”

Lovely!! Very much interested on the trip. Please email me the itinerary with details. I am interested visiting August 5 2023. Thank you Mercedes

Hi Mercedes,

So glad you found our itinerary helpful! :-)

We’re not tour guides or travel agents, so we can’t plan or book tours for you. We do have some well-reviewed guided tours linked in the post under the section where I talk about options if you don’t want to drive in Jordan.

Hope you have a wonderful trip to Jordan!

My husband and I are planning to visit Jordan for 7 nights early March 2024. Our preferred stay would be 2 nights in Amman on arrival. 2 nights Petra / 1 night Dead Sea / 1 night Wadi Rum / Last night in Amman again. Would be grateful if you could please suggest an iterinary – not necessary the same sequence mentioned above (except Amman).

Thanks a ton.

Essentially with those stops, you’ll either want to make your way south slowly and then have your “long” driving day (not that the drive is too long in Jordan!) at the end of your trip, or vice versa–take the longest drive at the beginning of your trip and then slowly work your way back north.

With the first option, you’d want to go Amman – Dead Sea – Petra – Wadi Rum – Amman, the second option would be to reverse it: Amman – Wadi Rum – Petra – Dead Sea – Amman.

Personally, since you’re spending a couple nights in Amman to start, I’d tend to recommend the second option. That way, you’ll be doing the most active traveling earlier in your trip, and end with a final relaxing stop at the Dead Sea. :-)

Our flight arrive at Amman airport is late at night about 10pm, and departure time is early about 10am. Do you know if any car rental company would still be open for car pickup late at night , and car drop off early in the morning? Thanks

Not offhand, but I’d check the locations at the airport–they’ll likely have the most extended hours. Alternatively, if you’re spending the night in Amman, you could take a taxi into the city for your first night and then pickup a rental car at an in-town location the next morning (just make sure to confirm you want to drop off at the airport when you leave).

Have a great time in Jordan!

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Ultimate Jordan Itinerary for 5 Days, 7 Days or 10 Days

Putting together a Jordan itinerary doesn’t have to be a hard task. With a fantastic mix of desert landscapes, ancient archaeological sites and stunning coastline, there’s something for everyone.

To really see the best that Jordan has to offer, you’ll need a full 10 days. This will give you enough time to see all the top sights, such as Amman, Petra and Wadi Rum and still spend a few days unwinding on the beach too. 

If you don’t have that much time, we will outline shorter itinerary ideas for 5 days and 7 days too.

Even with a shorter amount of time, you can still tick off Amman, Petra, the Dead Sea and Wadi Rum, you just won’t have downtime on the Red Sea. 

Want to visit Jordan? We took this tour 8 Day Jordan Explorer

Putting Together a Jordan Itinerary

Table of Contents

Best Time to Visit Jordan

Jordan has two high seasons, when the weather is perfect for traveling, especially out into the desert. The first is between March and May when things get busy around Petra and Wadi Rum.

The second is September and October before things start to get cold in Amman, which is at high altitude. 

Aqaba can be visited all year round, but it becomes swelteringly hot in the summer months and busy with package holidaymakers from Europe. 

Still not sure when you want to go? Read Best Time to Visit Jordan: Month by Month Breakdown

Getting Around Jordan 

Jordan’s major cities and tourist destinations are well connected by public transport, however many of the smaller towns and historical sights are not easy to see without a car.

If you can afford to hire your own vehicle or join a multi-day tour, then your Jordan itinerary will be so much easier.

The King’s Highway, which connects Amman to Petra, takes you past old Crusader Castles and through desert landscapes, but it’s a trip that has to be done by car or through a tour company.

If you can hire a four-wheel drive, then you can head offroad into the wadis and desert for a real adventure. 

Costs and Budget

The Jordanian Dinar is the local currency, and you can easily exchange money at the airport, in Amman at tourist destinations.

ATMs are everywhere though, so you might well be better off withdrawing money using a bank card.

You can also pay directly on card in most parts of the country, unless you end up really remote, which might save you on hefty cash withdrawal fees. 

Jordan can be as expensive as you want to make it. If you’re on a budget, then you can get away with spending up to USD 50 a day and still have a great time.

Spend more than USD 100 a day and you can hire out luxury glamping tents in the desert and enjoy private tours or car hire. 

Safety in Jordan 

Jordan might have an unfortunate location in the center of the Middle East , surrounded by political hotspots such as Syria, Israel and Palestine, but it experiences very little unrest or terrorism in comparison to its neighbors. 

In fact, Jordan is a beacon of stability in an otherwise volatile region and the country itself is perfectly safe to travel around. Jordanians are welcoming to foreign tourists and are incredibly hospitable to their guests.

Crime is rare and punished heavily by Islamic law. Jordan is one of the safest countries we have visited in all of our travels.

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Jordan (Travel Guide)

Ideal 5 Days in Jordan Itinerary

While Jordan seems like a small country, many people are surprised at how spread out the best sites of the country are. This means that you need some time to see the best of Jordan.

If you’re combining your visit to Jordan with Egypt or Israel, chances are you will probably only spend 5 days in Jordan. This is the absolute least amount of time you need to hit the highlights.

5 Day Jordan Itinerary Overview:

• Day 1: Arrive in Amman
• Day 2: Petra
• Day 3: Dead Sea
• Day 4: Wadi Rum
• Day 5: Depart Amman

I will not lie, this is going to be a rushed and shallow overview of what Jordan has to offer. However, you will get a good taste of what Jordan is famous for.

Sadly, you won’t have time to see much of Amman, nor make the trip to Jerash. You will be able to see the famed Petra, float in the Dead Sea and spend a night camping in Wadi Rum.

Petra : 1 Night

The most famous site to add to your Jordan itinerary is Petra. This ancient city was carved by hand from the red rocks in the desert and today is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. 

Read more Inside Petra Jordan: Everything You Need to Know

DON’T MISS IN PETRA:

• Siq: The spectacular entranceway to Petra is known simply as the Siq. It’s a beautiful, hidden cack in the tall canyon that you have to walk through.
• The Treasury: Also called Al-Khaznah, the Treasury is the most famous temple in Petra. Carved from the rockface, this is the structure that was made famous by its appearance in Indian Jones. 
• Little Petra: Just up the road from Petra, you can find the much smaller but much quieter neighbor, Little Petra. 
• Petra by Night: This is something everyone visiting Petra must do. Petra by night is just simply magical . Just imagine the treasury lit up by candlelight with traditional music playing.

Tours we recommend in Petra, Jordan: Classic Turkish Bath in Petra

Hotels we recommend in Petra, Jordan:

• Petra Guest House Hotel
• Hidab Hotel
• Petra Moon Hotel

Dead Sea : 1 Night

The Dead Sea is one of the best places to include on your Jordan itinerary. This huge salt lake sits on the border with Israel and Palestine and is one of the lowest places on earth.

The lake sits 400 meters below sea level, making this a unique place to visit. 

The refreshing qualities of the saltwater and the mineral-rich mud that’s found here have been known for thousands of years and today, the Dead Sea continues to be a popular place to relax and unwind. 

There’s not much else to do but lie back in the buoyant water and float around, before smearing yourself in the mud!

The Dead Sea is enormous, and you can visit it as a day trip from many different locations in Jordan, with the most popular being from Amman or from Madaba.

Read more Swimming in the Dead Sea in Jorda n

Hotels we recommend on the Dead Sea, Jordan:

• Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea  
• Movenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea
• Dead Sea Marriott Resort & Spa

Wadi Rum : 1 Night

Wadi Rum is a must-see on every Jordan itinerary. This beautiful area is starkly rugged and spectacularly otherworldly, being home to a wide valley surrounded by rugged, red sandstone.

This is a special place for the Bedouin, who have passed through for centuries. 

Read more Wadi Rum in Jordan: Best Camps & Ultimate Planning Guide

DON’T MISS IN WADI RUM:

• Glamping: Camp out under the stars in style, by spending the night a Glamping site in the desert. 
• Four-Wheel Driving: Head off-road into the sand dunes and explore in a four-wheel drive. 
• Bedouin Experience: Learn first hand about the Bedouin way of life by joining guided tours through the wadi. You can camp and feast with the Bedouin and stay out under the stars.  

Tours we recommend in Wadi Rum, Jordan:

• Hiking Adventure through the Canyons of Wadi Rum
• Sunset Camel Ride in Wadi Rum Desert | 2 hours

Hotels we recommend in Wadi Rum, Jordan:

• Beyond Wadi Rum Camp
• Wadi Rum Bedouin Camp
• Wadi Rum Bubble Luxhotel & Campsite

7 Days in Jordan Itinerary

A 7 day Jordan itinerary is kind of the sweet spot for the country. While I would recommend you give it 10-14 days if you want to spend more time in places, you will see some great highlights with one week in Jordan.

I should mention, though, that I am outlining 7 nights for this itinerary, with you flying out the morning of day 8.

7 Day Jordan Itinerary Overview:

• Day 2: Amman
• Day 3: Madaba/Crusader Castles
• Day 4: Petra
• Day 5: Dead Sea
• Day 6: Aqaba
• Day 7: Wadi Rum
• Day 8: Depart Amman

You’re not going to have time to do any hiking on the Jordan trail, explore the corners of Wadi Rum or head to the Dana Biosphere Reserve with one week in Jordan.

My biggest tip for this 8 day/7 night plan is to book as many day tours as possible to maximize your experience.

Amman : 2 Days

Amman is the bustling capital city of Jordan and the gateway to the rest of the country.

Many travelers pass quickly through on their way to Petra or Wadi Rum, but if you have the time then you can easily spend 2 to 3 days exploring the city and using Amman as a base to reach some ancient cities too. 

Enjoy the great food and multicultural districts, and be amazed by the depth of history that’s waiting for you on every street corner. 

Read more 15 Interesting Things to Do in Amman (For First Time Visitors)

DON’T MISS IN AMMAN:

• Amman Citadel: Rising high above Amman, the Citadel is the first place you’ll see when you arrive in the city. This hilltop is where humans have lived for thousands of years and it’s one of the oldest, continually inhabited places in the world. Visit the Archeology Museum and the ancient Temple of Hercules, amongst many other ruins.
• Jordan Museum: When the Archeology Museum couldn’t fit any more artifacts, the Jordan Museum was built to house the wealth of objects collected across the country. The highlight of the museum is the Copper Dead Sea Scroll.
• Rainbow Street: Multicultural and historic Rainbow Street is where Amman comes to life, where old meets new and where you can find the best beers and the best falafel in the city.
• Jerash: Just one hour to the north of Amman, you can find the spectacular Roman-era city of Jerash. This is one of the best-preserved, ancient cities in the world, where you can take a stroll back in time through forums and temples.

Tours we recommend in Amman, Jordan:

• Private Jerash and Amman City Tour
• Amman City Tour & Food Tour Combo

Hotels we recommend in Amman, Jordan:

• The Boulevard Arjaan
• Movenpick Hotel Amman

Madaba : 1 Day

Located one hour from Amman, the biblical city of Madaba is usually the next stop on a Jordan itinerary heading south from the capital.

You can call in as you head along the famous King’s Highway towards Petra, but it’s worth spending at least one night here to really soak up the history. 

DON’T MISS IN MADABA:

• Madaba Mosaic Map: the most famous piece of history awaiting you in Madaba is the Mosaic Map. This ancient mosaic is perfectly preserved and dates back to the Byzantine era hundreds of years ago. The mosaic is a detailed map of the Holy Land, as it was in a long-gone century. 
• Mount Nebo: Not far from the city is the biblical peak of Mount Nebo at 800 meters high, the mountain offers spectacular views across the Dead Sea and deep into Israel and Palestine. It was here where Moses is said to have first laid eyes on the Holy Land.  
• Churches: Madaba is home to wonderfully preserved Christian churches, many dating back to the late Roman and Byzantine eras.  

Tours we recommend in Madaba, Jordan:

• Private Tour Madaba, Mount Nebo, and The Dead Sea Day Trip with Amman Sightseeing
• Private Day Tour from Amman to Bethany, the Dead Sea, Mt.Nebo and Madaba

Hotels we recommend in Madaba, Jordan:

• Mosaic City Hotel
• Mariam Hotel
• Ma’in Hot Springs

Aqaba : 1 to 2 Days

Located on the Red Sea, Aqaba is Jordan’s coastal resort city. This is the place for sun, sea and sand. Enjoy the beaches and resorts and dive or snorkel the underwater world.

With only 7 days in Jordan, you won’t have time to relax at a Red Sea resort, but don’t let this deter you from taking a snorkeling trip. The Red Sea has stunning coral reefs and is worth the effort.

Also, make sure to get out and walk around the city. It has a beautiful seaside promenade with local artisans and food carts. It’s a great atmosphere to explore in the evening.

Read more 15 Best Things to Do in Aqaba (For First Time Visitors)

DON’T MISS IN AQABA:

• Diving and Snorkelling: This is the main reason to visit Aqaba because the marine park here is brimming with coral, marine life and shipwrecks.
• Aqaba Bird Observatory: As well as underwater life, Aqaba is also a renowned bird-watching destination. At the Bird Observatory, you can see a huge array of different species as they stop here on migrations between Africa and Europe. 
• Aqaba Fortress: Learn about the history of Aqaba and its importance to nations and empires through history at the remarkably well preserved Aqaba Fortress. 

Tours we recommend in Aqaba, Jordan:

• Coral Viewing Glass Boat Cruise
• Aqaba Hooh Sweets Making Experience
• Pharaoh Island Tour in Aqaba

Hotels we recommend in Aqaba, Jordan:

• Movenpick Resort & Spa Tala Bay Aqaba
• Cedar Hotel
• Al Qidra Hotel & Suites Aqaba

10 Days in Jordan Itinerary

A 10 day Jordan itinerary will build on the classic 7 day route, adding in extra time in Wadi Rum and adding the Dana Biosphere Reserve. To be honest, if you’re going to look at 10 days, just push it to two weeks.

Then you can add more days in Amman and some relaxation in Aqaba, which compared to Sharm el Sheik in Egypt is quiet.

10 Day Jordan Itinerary Overview:

• Day 8: Wadi Rum/Dana
• Day 9: Dana
• Day 10: Depart Amman

Of course, this is a great plan if you want to see the highlights and head off the beaten path a little. Alternatively, you could spend some time hiking on the Jordan Trail too.

Dana Biosphere Reserve: 1 to 3 Days

Dana is a small, sleepy village in the Jordanian wilderness. It’s quiet and it’s peaceful, and the main reason to include Dana on your Jordan itinerary is to visit the excellent Dana Biosphere Reserve. 

Here you can enjoy hiking, canyoneering and wildlife viewing. It’s remote and sees few visitors when compared to other parts of the country.

DON’T MISS IN DANA:

• Dana Biosphere Reserve: This is the largest protected area in Jordan, and it’s home to a wonderful array of endangered animals that you might just be lucky enough to see.
• Shobak: Not far from Dana, you can find the historic Crusader Castle of Shobak, once one of the mightiest fortresses in the Holy Land.  

Tours we recommend in Dana, Jordan: Dana to Petra Trek (Voted one of the treks hikes in the world)

Hotels we recommend in Dana, Jordan:

• Dana Tower Hotel
• Al Nawatef Camp
• Wadi Dana Eco-Camp

Putting It All Together

The biggest thing is to make sure that you have given yourself enough time to truly see the best of Jordan. As I’ve pointed out, it can be done in 5 days, but 8 days is definitely the sweet spot.

Where you go and what you do will have a lot to do with how much time you have and your budget. It is possible to experience Jordan as a backpacker on a budget, in a high-end luxury way and everything in between.

Feel free to share your Jordan itinerary ideas and questions below!

More on Jordan:

• Is Jordan Safe to Visit?
• 21 Special Things to Do in Jordan
• 15 Places to Visit in Jordan (That May Surprise You)
• The Jordan Pass: Is It Worth It? Plus How to Maximize Your Ticket

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Travel planning resources, about david & lina stock.

Hi! We have been traveling together since 2001 and have visited all 7 continents, multiple times. We started traveling together while both working full time corporate jobs until 2013 when we decided to quit our jobs and travel full time for the next 4 years. We started this blog and a media business alongside it, which is now our full time jobs. We love traveling to every corner of the planet so that we can photograph and share the stories of this world with you. Doing this has made us both award-winning photographers and writers. We hope we're able to help you travel more, and inspire you to visit places you might not have had on your bucket list.

1 thought on “Ultimate Jordan Itinerary for 5 Days, 7 Days or 10 Days”

Thanks for the itinerary. I didn’t realize there was so much to do in Jordan. And I love the fast pace.

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The Right Jordan Itinerary For You

March 22, 2022

Plan your perfect Jordan itinerary and enter a world of swirling red sand, ancient cities, stargazing skies and stories that will last several lifetimes. Pull up a chair, grab some cardamom coffee and let’s walk you through our Jordan travel guide.

Table of Contents

Finding The Right Jordan Itinerary for You

I love travel in Jordan. There, I’ve said it. I love the swirling red desert sand, the stargazing at night, and the dates and pomegranates at open markets. I love the raspberry ripple stone canyons of Petra, the childlike joy of floating in the Dead Sea and the philosophical power punch of visiting holy sites from long ago. But most of all, I love the welcome from people.

Through tea, sumac and spice, I’ve enjoyed this Middle Eastern country so much that I go back time and again. 

But when planning my first trip to Jordan, I didn’t know where to start. Jordan’s position in the Middle East means that a little planning is required when putting together your Jordan itinerary.

So here’s my guide to do just that. You can find all the more atmospheric stories about visiting Jordan over here and a guide to visiting the best places in the Middle East here.

In the meantime, let’s plan your itinerary for Jordan.

Jordan Itinerary At a Glance

• Arrive Amman
• See Amman and Jerash
• Explore Wadi Rum
• Hike through Petra
• Visit Kerak Castle and the Dead Sea
• See Mt Nebo, the Madaba Mosaics and Bethany Beyond the Jordan
• Head back to Amman

Jordan Itinerary Google Map

Jordan: one of the most interesting countries on earth…

Disclosure – I have travelled to Jordan many times, now, in partnership with Visit Jordan and Globus Travel on occasion. As ever, as always, I keep the right to write what I like here on the Lab. Otherwise, what’s the point? Also, if you book or buy through any of the links on this page then I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Cheers!

Why Visit Jordan

Where do I begin?! Jordan has not one, not two, not three but many more world class places that stand head and shoulders above the highlights of many other countries. 

First, and perhaps most famously, there is Petra. This hidden city and UNESCO World Heritage Site, buried in the rocks, was “rediscovered” by the world in 1812 by Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt . But local Bedouin had known about it, of course, for all this time. The view of the Treasury may be the most famous image of Jordan, but the Nabatean city extends for miles behind that. 

Then there is the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth, with a saline concentration so high you can float on its waters. 

Jordan straddles part of the ancient Holy Land and so you can visit the site where Jesus was baptised, according to archaeologists and theologists alike, then conduct historical jigsaw puzzles with the mosaics of Madaba. 

Wadi Rum, though not as well known, carves deep red dunes into the camel stone of the desert. It is powerfully, poignantly beautiful. 

Then you have ancient Roman ruins, the oldest continuously inhabited city on earth, a range of fresh and flavoursome Jordanian food and a modern city with modern women running businesses from their home.

Phew. And do you know what else? I’m actually only getting started. Read about the best things to do in Jordan over here.

Now, let’s roll our sleeves up and get talking about practical travel tips for Jordan and work out how to plan the perfect Jordan itinerary for you!

How long do you need to visit Jordan?

You can comfortably hit the main sights with either a 7 day Jordan itinerary or a 10 day one. Of course, as a big supporter of slow travel and as someone who absolutely loves travel in Jordan, the longer the better if you can. More time will give you more opportunities to meet local people, hike off the beaten track and sample more of the food on offer.

But if time is tight, as it usually is, then you can still see a lot within a 7 day Jordan itinerary. 

Should you join a group or go it alone?

Should you travel independently or join a tour?

Ah, that’s a big question. Again, as a passionate supporter of independent travel in general, there are a few things to bear in mind about travel in Jordan. 

The first is the language barrier. In the popular tourist spots in the capital Amman and in the big resorts at the Dead Sea, Petra and Aqaba, you will find enough people who speak English to get by. 

However, in more rural areas, and even in other popular spots like Wadi Rum, you will find that without speaking Arabic, it’s going to be difficult to work out what to do. Even if you blunder through to success (another method I enjoy on occasion) you will miss out on conversations with people, and that’s a shame because meeting new people is one of the best things to do in the Middle East. 

With a tour, you will be travelling with a guide and interpreter and can learn much more about how Jordanian society works and interact with people more easily. 

The second issue to consider involves the borders with Jordan’s neighbours. Jordan borders Iraq, Syria, Israel and Saudi and these are all borders with geopolitical significance – and often military guards. While Jordan itself is a very safe country to travel through, a blunder onto the wrong side of a border with the wrong paperwork is not a safe situation to find yourself in. 

For these two reasons, I’d highly recommend travelling with a guide, at least outside the capital of Amman. 

Globus Jordan Escape group walking through downtown Amman

Should you join a group trip?

So, onto the next question. Should you hire a private guide and driver? Or join a group tour?

Let’s talk about the pros and cons of joining a group tour, based on my recent trip to Jordan with Globus Escapes.

• You save an enormous amount of time! Calculating drive times, checking opening times, coordinating permits and border permissions, booking hotels, comparing rates, looking for parking, checking visas, checking safety recommendations. Sheesh! When someone does all that for you, you save a lot of time. 
• You get company! Sure, you’re unlikely to become best friends with everyone, but in a group of more than about six people, you’re bound to find someone you like. I’ve made lifelong friendships from people I met travelling. Plus, even with more casual acquaintances, it’s nice to have people to meet at breakfast, to look after your bags and, well, in general look out for each other.   
• You get access to things that are difficult to arrange on your own.  This partly depends on the company (and I’ve travelled with some bad ones!) But Globus really made the effort to take us to places that would be difficult on your own. Sustainable travel places, like the Bait Khairat Souf and a family homestay meal in Wadi Musa. Not all of these excursions are included in the tour price but it was always clear in advance when that was the case. And they were all absolutely worth it.
• You get access to rich background information. Travel on your own and you’re with your own thoughts for the journey. Travel with Globus and you have a local guide filling you in on the background of the country, from how to tie the keffiyeh headscarf to deciphering marriage traditions, from bellydancing to mineral exports and everything in between. Do make sure this is the case, though. I have travelled with other tour companies where the guide is an enthusiastic fellow traveller just reading material from a worksheet. Globus always uses professional local guides.
• You get help if things go wrong. This is priceless. Especially during coronavirus times. Not only do you have access to someone who can speak the local language right in front of you but they also know the country and how it works. In our group alone, our guide tracked down lost electronics, sorted out health problems and provided advice for border crossings.
• Your interpreter can help you get to know people. One of the best things about the Middle East, or perhaps travel in general, is meeting people from different backgrounds to you. But that’s hard to do, sometimes, when you can’t speak the language. Having a Globus guide, for example, meant I could ask away and connect on a deeper level.
• You get off to the right start. I never fail to enjoy the treat of someone meeting me at the airport. In Jordan, with Globus, they meet you before you pass passport control and help with your visa application as well. Then, instead of haggling with waiting taxi drivers and wondering whether or not you’re being ripped off, you simply step into your waiting transport and are whisked off to your comfortable hotel. A great start to a journey. 
• It’s much less stressful. T his point really builds on all the others. But you know that if something goes wrong while on the trip, it’s not your problem alone to fix it. You know that you are travelling with professionals who know the area and the language. If you get caught up in traffic, they will know the short cut and be able to call ahead to say you’re running late. If something worse happens, well, again, you have backup. It’s liberating.
• You can have some down time. Shhh. This is a bit of a strange one but I’ll say it anyway. When you travel with a private guide, there’s often a social expectation that you are both chatting all the time, which can start to feel a little awkward. Sometimes, it’s nice to be able to give your mind a break or close your eyes on long journeys. When you travel on a group tour, you can drift in and out of conversations, giving your mind some much needed rest.
• The size of the group makes some thing difficult. The more people there are, the longer the toilet breaks take, and the same for shopping trips, photo stops, snacks and everything else. Groups can’t visit small eateries and it’s harder to initiate authentic interactions with local people with a group of 30 behind you. Plus, if decisions go to a vote, chances are you won’t get your first choice. That’s just the way democracy works!
• If you miss something, you miss it. T ravel on your own and if you feel unwell, you can often pause and try again the next day. With a group, there’s no chance for that. The group moves on and you have to rejoin them when you can. 

Having said all that, you can easily overcome many of the cons with a little initiative. You can peel off to arrange some meals on your own or leave the main tour to pick up a smaller one, if you wish. With Globus, we did this in Wadi Musa near Petra. A smaller group of us left the buffet one evening to dine in a family home. The next morning, we hired a guide to hike a different route into Petra. The key lies in good communication so that the rest of your group aren’t left confused and hanging around!

If you decide not to book through a group trip, then check out the Jordan Pass. I t may help you arrange your sightseeing.

Osama: fabulous guide

Travel in the off season, beat the crowds…

The Globus Escapes Concept

• Escapes by Globus have a genius idea: they take place during the off season. This way, you avoid temperature extremes, are less likely to be jostling nose to armpit with crowds of tourists and, yes, the tours cost less as prices are lower in the off season.
• This was my first experience of a Globus Tour but I found myself travelling with many, many people who had travelled with them before and who had booked this trip just as soon as they’d got home from their last Globus adventure.
• Our guide, Osama, was outstanding in his level of knowledge, degree of helpfulness and, crucially, sense of humour and joie de vivre.
• Our group was mostly 40 plus and for those travelling solo, they waive the single supplement.

Bookmark these Jordan travel itineraries and this Jordan travel guide on Pinterest to read later.

Your 7 day Jordan Itinerary

This Jordan itinerary is based on the Jordan Globus Escapes plan. I’ve mentioned some extras that you can add in along the way and at the end, I’ve offered some alternative 10, 8, 5 and 3 day Jordan itineraries. 

Day One – Jordan Itinerary

Arriving in Amman…

 Arrival into Amman

Amman is a bewitching city, with its ochre-white walls and calls to prayer mixing with trendy coffee shops, design, art and innovation. It’s not the most beautiful capital in the world but it is one of oldest: the Ghazal figures at the Citadel museum mark  the oldest representation of people in the world. 

If you arrive early and have time to spare, then you can find an easy introduction into life in Jordan by wandering along the coffee shops and restaurants on internationally minded Rainbow Street. But if you’ve had a long flight, take it easy on yourself on day one. Rest and save your energy for later.

Where to sleep : The Kempinski Hotel Amman

• Try a daytime meal at the eco-conscious Wild Jordan and enjoy the view across to the Citadel.

Day Two – Jordan Itinerary 

Amman & jerash.

Now we’re getting started! Spend the morning travelling back to the past in Amman. ( See also more ideas for Amman here. )

Remains of Hercules at the Amman Citadel

The Amman Citadel

If you want to feel young, head to the citadel. Perched on one of the seven hills or jabals in Amman, this dry and dusty place has seen civilisations come and go like waves on a shore. First was the Neolithic period, then the bronze age. The Ammonites, neo-Assyrians, neo-Babylonians, Ptolemies, and Seleucids roamed around and that’s all before the Romans arrived in around 100 BCE. 

The temple of Hercules is the site’s most famous set of ruins, the hand elbow and, er, other body part lying unceremoniously in the rust red earth. 

The unassuming museum houses artefacts from throughout time, including the Ghazal figures: mankind’s first artistic representation of himself (or herself, who knows?)

The Old Town

From the solitude and windswept stone of the citadel, head to the warmth and bustle of Amman’s Old Town. If you have your heart set on anything Aladdin-like then here’s your best shot. Piles of spices, hanging fruit, glittering gold in shop windows and fluttering fabric in the breeze. 

• Top tip: try some crumbling, hot and sinful knafeh at Habibah Sweets in the Old town. It’s one of the best things to do in Amman! If I ever start a Jordan travel blog, this will be the very first food entry…

Lunch: Bait Khairat Souf

Now, the Globus Jordan Escape team organised this lunch: it’s not a straightforward place to reach independently. But I’m writing about it here because of three important reasons:

• It disproved my idea that group meals on tours tend to be bland and divorced from local traditions
• The story behind Bhait Khairat is one that deserves to be heard
• The food tasted good!

Set in beautiful gardens, with flowering petals, small fountains and a canopy of green, the Bait Khairat Souf is a women’s cooperative supported by the Queen Al Noor foundation. Food is largely home grown and definitely home cooked and it provides options for local women to develop skills, friendships and economic independence.

There are Roman ruins. And there are Roman ruins. 

Forget the odd mosaic, baths or villa you might find lying around in the UK. Jerash is an entire city. Just 45 minutes from Amman, the columns and colonnades sprawl in a leisurely fashion from Hadrian’s Arch for mile after mile, making it one of the best preserved Greco-Roman ruins in the world. 

And just to make you wonder if you’re losing a grip on reality, you’re also likely to catch a bagpipe show in the amphitheatre. 

Yes, forget everything you ever knew. Bagpipes do actually originate from the Middle East, not Scotland. 

How’s that for an impressive and little known fact?!

Bagpipes: not from Scotland after all…

Nothing breaks through barriers faster than eating and drinking together

Learn to cook at Beit Sitti

Get to work for your evening dinner at the fabulous Beit Sitti cooking class, run in a home by the lovely Maria. I first met Maria ten years ago on one of my earliest assignments. Post Covid, I was thrilled to see that her business had survived and elated when she recognised me the moment I walked through the door. Read more about that story and her delicious Jordanian recipes here.

This experience isn’t part of the standard Globus tour (as all 30 people can’t fit in her house) but you can add it to your Jordan itinerary by heading directly to the Beit Sitti website.

Where to sleep: The Kempinski Hotel Amman

Day Three – Jordan Itinerary

Day three – wadi rum.

On the face of it, a visit to Wadi Rum doesn’t sound all that enticing. You go, you see the desert, you leave. 

Once you go and you see the desert, I’d bet eighteen camels you don’t want to leave. Because it is absurdly beautiful. Richly stunning. Imagine untouched ski slopes rising and falling around you, except replace white snow with burned red sand. Picture the sky a lavender blue and the wheels of the jeep gliding over the landscape, a breath, a sigh of wind in your hair. 

Imagine an undulating kaleidoscope of those blues and oranges and purples, rising and falling, shifting and drifting. Then stop for tea or cardamom coffee in a blood striped tent, the traditional way. 

Yeah. I know what you’re thinking…

Ride camels in Wadi Rum

Of course, you could go all out for tradition and hike your backside up onto a cantankerous camel. Those images may look serene but I can assure you that the reality is anything but (or butt.)

Yes, dear readers, after years of riding camels across the desert sands in many countries, I can tell you that those days are over. The lurch and swing, the projectile snot, the abrasive hide. 

But, you know. Try anything once etc.

Beyond the sand and the camels, you’ll also find yourself sifting through the complicated legacy of Lawrence of Arabia. Not just a Peter O’Toole movie, the real Lawrence (T.E Lawrence) did indeed exist, befriend the Bedouin and fight against the Turks. But the legacy beyond that is complicated, to say the least. Amid the conundrums, today’s Bedouin take you to see a somewhat questionable  carving of his likeness in the rock.

• Inside tip: make sure your legs are covered if you plan on riding a camel. Just saying…

Dinner in a Bedouin home

Now, depending on who you ask, Bedouin are people who live a nomadic life in the desert. Or those who did until recently but who now have a permanent home but who have maintained the traditions of their communities and people. 

And one of the most moving experiences of the trip was the invitation to dinner in Ameena’s home, with her children and their uncle, Sohaeb. More about that later!

Where to sleep:  the Mövenpick Resort Petra right by the entrance to Petra

The Monastery in Petra

Day Four – Jordan Itinerary 

Petra. This is the jewel in the crown, the sandwich in the picnic, the meat in the sandwich (sorry veggies.) Even before you know what it is, I’ll be you you’ve seen that image of Petra, the face of the Treasury peering between the raspberry ripple rocky gorge. 

Petra is simply outstanding. No matter how many times you visit, you’ll always find something new. It’s like London, only prettier. If a man is tired of London, he is tired of life. If a woman is tired of Petra, she needs to have a word with herself. Basically.

However you plan your itinerary through Jordan, whether through Globus, another tour or through someone else, I would highly recommend this: make sure you rise and fall with Petra. That is, arrive the night before and give your aching, hardworking, unsuspecting muscles the chance to recover by staying the night after as well. 

The site of Petra is huge. Vast. Enormous. Gigantic. In the words of my nursery age daughter, a million, billion years big. 

Even if all you do is walk from the entrance to the Treasury and turn back, you will have walked four kilometres. And missed the point, to be honest. 

The famous approach to the Treasury

Understanding Petra

Petra is an ancient city, built by the Nabateans and extending over 102 square miles. It has columns and colonnades, an amphitheatre, tombs, marketplaces, mysteries and the awe-inspiring Monastery. 

And it has been made more accessible over the years and over my visits. The rough stony approach to the Treasury is now a smooth concrete path. Golf buggies now buzz where horses used to roam. This is great for those with mobility issues. 

For those without, it’s worth pulling on the hiking boots, slapping on the sunscreen and dosing up on your mojo to hike at least to the Monastery. 

It’s hard to provide a sense of just how big the complex is. And it’s definitely worth visiting with a guide, to get a sense of who the Nabateans were.

Petra by night: serenity by candlelight.

Petra by Night

An optional extra to Petra is the evening experience known as Petra by night. Personally, I think it’s utterly beautiful, a constellation of stargazing, candlelight and folk music in front of the majestic Treasury of Petra itself. But for those who expect a blaring, glaring light and sound show, you’ll be disappointed. Read more about my thoughts over here: is Petra at night worth it?

• Inside Tip – When it comes to visiting Petra, Globus Escape has the right idea. When I visited during the summer heat, my lasting memory is of collapsing into bed with black dots battling with stars in my head. And I was ten years younger. Simply put, Petra is best visited in the off season.
• Where to sleep:  the Mövenpick Resort Petra  right by the entrance to Petra

Day Five – Jordan Itinerary

 kerak, wadi majib and the dead sea.

OK, OK. Today you can relax. After a hard day hiking through Petra, the fifth day of this Jordan itinerary sees you spend a recuperating amount of time on the road. (What some inspiration? Check out these fun road trip questions for grown ups. )

But in between watching camels slide by through the window and listening to your guide talk about the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, you will have a few key stops. 

Kerak castle

Everyone who’s heard of Robin Hood, Prince John and Richard the Lionheart has heard of the Crusades, albeit vaguely. But of course, these weren’t the background scene of a Nottingham legend but a real series of conflicts held around the Holy Land in the Middle Ages. 

Kerak Castle helps to put some context into the period, through its dungeons, windswept battlements, stables and broad views of the cream and russet countryside. It’s one of the largest and best preserved castles from the Crusader Period. Built in 1140, it changed hands several times in very many bloody, messy ways. Today, though, it’s a peaceful spot and the restaurant just outside serves beautiful refreshing mint and lemon drinks.

Wadi Majib (or Wadi Mujib) is a deep canyon cuts through rust red rock with a sense of passion and drama. It’s also a hotspot for adventure sports and canyoning (you can have a good laugh at a retro video of a younger me canyoning in Wadi Majib right here.)

On the Globus Jordan itinerary, though, you don’t have to splash yourself through that. You drive down, across, and up the gorge, stopping for photo spots but nothing more arduous.

Then it’s on to the lowest point on earth: the Dead Sea.

The Dead Sea

Glistening between Jordan and Israel, the Dead Sea sits at 427 metres below sea level and, well, is a lake rather than a sea. Despite the off-putting name (it’s the fish who can’t survive, not the people,) it’s become a popular place for spa resorts. Each weekend, Jordanians leave the capital of Amman and head to the Dead Sea, slathering themselves in mud for a youthful complexion and watching a bellydancer for, well, reasons unknown. 

Three times, now, I’ve been lucky enough to visit the Dead Sea and each time has been a blast. There’s something faintly ridiculous, no boldly ridiculous, about covering yourself in mud and bobbing about like a drunken penguin. The high salinity means you can’t sink but you sure as anything can’t swim either. 

Bluntly put, the Dead Sea is a wonder of the world and an absolute must on any Jordan itinerary.

• Where to sleep: the Mövenpick Dead Sea Resort and Spa
• Tip: don’t shave before getting into the Dead Sea. It will sting like crazy! Find out why and uncover some other interesting facts about the Dead Sea over here.

It’s a busy day – you need to move fast!

Day Six – Jordan Itinerary 

Mt nebo, madaba, bethany beyond the jordan.

Today is a busy day. One which spans thousands of years, scales a mountain, views the promised land and, well, puts your feet on the earth where world-changing events took place. 

Wherever you sit on the religious spectrum, there’s absolutely no denying that the events that took place here had monumental, far reaching consequences for the world at large. Consequences that continue to this day. 

Because in just a few square miles, you can stand on the spot where Jesus was baptised and also on the mountain where Moses saw the promised land of Israel. 

If you believe, the significance is obvious. If you don’t, it’s perhaps more powerful to stand and wonder why these places, why these stories achieved the global fame and far reaching consequences that they did. 

And in either case, to visit is to witness a striking contrast to what you see on the news: soldiers chatting in the sunshine on the West Bank. And Muslims and Jews paying to protect sites that matter to Christians. 

But enough chatting. Let’s talk about what you can see. 

His Excellency Rustom Mkhjian, Director of the Baptism Site

Powerful thoughts…

Bethany Beyond the Jordan

We arrived in Bethany Beyond the Jordan in an appropriately biblical downpour of rain. Greeted by the Director of the Baptism Site Commission , His Excellency Rustom Mkhjian, we walked through the archaeological ruins and remains that suggest that this area was the place of ministry for John the Baptist. 

Then you move to the baptism site itself. The place where historians tend to agree was the original baptism site of Jesus, and the pivotal moment where He began His teachings. 

A tiny stream trickles through a cross-shaped grave of mud and the noise sounds livelier and more energetic than it looks. In the Bible, Jesus is baptised in the River Jordan, which is not, of course, this. But experts agree that the river has changed course over the last two thousand years or so and other archaeological remains almost unanimously suggest that this is the place. 

But not entirely unanimously. Just a little way further along, you can visit the Jordan River, which separates Jordan from the West Bank. Various irrigation systems upstream have siphoned off the water, so what sounded like the Hudson or Thames in biblical times is now around the size of a country road.

Still, people attend on both sides for baptism and a beautiful church, resplendent in the breaks of sunshine between the clouds, also celebrates the site.

Madaba: famous for mosaics but there’s more to the story than that

Just along the road in Madaba, the word on the street is mosaics. In fact, the mosaics were the streets in Roman times which, of course, were also the times when Jesus and John the Baptist were roaming around. 

The most famous mosaic in Madaba is the 6th century depiction of the Holy Land in the Greek Orthodox Church of St George. It’s worth visiting, not only for the mosaic, but also to witness the practice of Christianity in a Muslim country. 

Just along the road is the Church of the Virgin Mary, which I missed on my first visit to Madaba (thanks again Globus for the heads up!) 

Inside, you’ll find mosaic after mosaic after mosaic, well, you get the picture. 

But it’s worth seeing them. See why the mosaics of Madaba matter more than you think here.

It gets cold and windy up here!

Sunlight marks the Promised Land…

From the peak of Mt Nebo, God showed Moses the Promised Land of Canaan. And standing on that peak, even amid the wind and rain, the whole idea makes sense. For while we stood battered and smattered by the elements, a golden expanse of sunshine seemed to breathe with ease over the land of today’s Israel. 

Beyond the viewpoint, you’ll find a memorial, a small museum and a covered selection of more mosaics. They are all interesting in their own right but it’s the view from the mountain itself that makes this a world class visit. 

The Dead Sea (again)

In the Globus Jordan itinerary, you head back to the Dead Sea spa for the night because, why not?! It’s fun!

Alternatives would involve travelling back to Amman to cram in a few more city sights before you fly.

• Inside tip: leave all your preconceptions behind. Respect and reverence and an open mind make for getting the best and the most out of this day.

Sad to say goodbye…

Day Seven – Jordan Itinerary

Leave from amman.

Depending on your flight time, you can either spend the day lazing by the side of the Dead Sea… or get up at the crack of dawn to hot foot it to the airport. 

That’s it! Your seven day Jordan itinerary has come to an end. Want more time? Check out the other Jordan itinerary suggestions below…

10 day Jordan Itinerary

With 10 days in Jordan, you can expand some of the stops on the 7 day Jordan itinerary but follow the same basic loop of the plan. Spend a night in Wadi Rum, two in Petra and in the warmer months, head further south to Aqaba.

• Explore Wadi Rum – stay overnight
• Hike through Petra and Little Petra – 2 nights in Petra
• Head to Aqaba
• Return via Kerak Castle and the Dead Sea

8 day Jordan Itinerary

For an 8 day Jordan itinerary, follow the outline above but spend one night in Wadi Rum or at the Dana Biosphere Reserve mid trip.

• Explore Wadi Rum 
• Stay in the Dana Biosphere Reserve

5 day Jordan Itinerary

With 5 days in Jordan, time is tight! I’d suggest cutting the Kerak Castle day and combine Petra and Wadi Rum into one day. It will be a squish but you can just about pull it off. 

• Explore Wadi Rum & Petra
• See the Dead Sea, Mt Nebo, the Madaba Mosaics and Bethany Beyond the Jordan

3 day Jordan Itinerary

With only three days in Jordan, instead of a week in Jordan, then something has to go. Head straight from Amman to Petra, then to Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea and then back to Amman to fly home.

• Arrive Amman and head straight to Petra
• See Petra and Wadi Rum
• Back to Amman via the Dead Sea

More options to add to your Jordan itinerary

With more time, you can see more! Here are more details about the activities mentioned above.

Stay overnight in Wadi Rum: Hot air balloon ride in the morning

Once you’ve seen Wadi Rum, you’ll want to stay. At night you can see the stars in a perfectly dark sky. And early in the morning, you can head into the air in a wicker basket, powered simply by raw fire. You can watch my hot air balloon ride in Wadi Rum on YouTube here.

Hit the coast in Aqaba in the south

Jordan may have a small sliver of a coastline but it likes to make the most of it. Aqaba in the south borders the Red Sea, with plenty of rainbow fish to keep snorkellers and divers happy. It’s also a good spot for windsurfing. Bear in mind that winters are cool, however, so plan to visit Aqaba during the warmer months.

Go stargazing in the Dana Nature Reserve 

Hidden in the Dana Biosphere Reserve is one of the most forward-thinking eco lodges in the world. Built on an abandoned archaeological site, you can stargaze at night in a pollution free sky. You can also hike through the reserve or take a driving tour through Roman mines and sit and have coffee and homemade bread with Bedouin people who live on the land. 

It’s a special place to visit and you can read my full account about the Feynan Ecolodge here.

Hike Little Petra

Little Petra, in virtually any other setting, would be big news. Somewhat overshadowed by nearby Big Petra, Little Petra also represents Nabatean city life set in a sandstone canyon. Its name in Arabic is Siq al-Barid, meaning the cold canyon, and it does offer plenty more shade than the bigger version.

Hike the off the beaten track routes in Petra

You could honestly spend a week hiking through the ancient city of Petra. And indeed, that’s what keen hikers do. 

But if you’re not in a position to spend another seven days away from the desk, you can spend one day exploring different parts of the site. You don’t have to join the crowds and walk straight from the visitor centre to the Treasury. With the right guide, you can hike straight to the Monastery, via the back route. Other options include four hour excursions to those stunning viewpoints seen on instagram.

• See also travel tips for how to get off the beaten path.

Fresh oranges and pomegranates hanging in Amman Old Town

Spend extra time in Amman

You could fill 3 days in Jordan with nothing but an Amman itinerary to soak in a sense of the country. In particular, I’d recommend the following highlights:

The Royal Automobile Museum

Car lovers will fall head over heels in love with the Royal Automobile Museum. But the rest of us? It’s more interesting than you may think. Amid the shiny metal and scent of rubber, you’ll find the whole history of the modern state of Jordan told through news archive and, well, automobiles. It’s the first time I’ve seen engineering history combined with humanities and, well, it’s a success!

Ride like a king!

When we left the Royal Automobile Museum, we couldn’t help but notice that our trusty tour bus had been replaced. By a fleet of vehicles from the King’s personal collection, complete with royal guards. They were assembled to take us back to our hotel!

Now, this isn’t something that you can arrange but I mention it because it reminds me of the joys of travel: you really never know what will happen in a day. 

The Iraq Al Amir Women’s Cooperative

Just 20km southwest of Amman, so perfect for a leisurely day trip, you’ll find the Iraq Al Amir Women’s Cooperative. Here, cooking and crafts workshops take place within ten renovated historic farmhouses. They in turn overlook the Qasr Al-Abd archaeological site which dates back to 200BC and the Hellenistic era of Hyrcanus the Tobiad.

This beautiful spot provides home-cooked meals and sells hand crafted ceramics and pressed flowers. 

Lina from Divergent Traveler in the Amman Art Gallery

The Jordan Gallery of Fine Arts

To get a sense of where a nation is right now, you can’t beat visiting a modern art gallery. The Jordan Gallery of Fine Arts curates work from across the Middle East in a series of white, light, beautiful exhibition spaces. It also has a wonderful multicolour balcony space that overlooks the neighbourhood outside (plus a cafe, always good to find coffee.)

As an extra Globus plus, we met with Suhail Baqueen, founder of the Darat Suhail Art Center where he runs the Scent of Color programme. There he pairs colours with scents (pink with rose, lemon with yellow, orange with, well, yes, orange and so on) allowing visually impaired students to create visual art.

Travel in Jordan makes you feel alive!

Frequently Asked Questions About Jordan

Whenever you’re planning a Jordan trip, it’s important to ask yourself the following questions:

When is the best time to visit Jordan?

Summers in Jordan are hot, hot, hot and that heat can feel crushing when you’re spending the day hiking through Petra or beneath the burning desert sun in Wadi Rum. 

Jordan’s most popular seasons, therefore, are spring and autumn: the months of March to May and September to November. During those months, Jordan’s heat has faded but the skies are still a sun kissed golden warm. 

However, there is another time to visit, as I discovered on my Globus Escape. Their Escape tours prioritise travel during the off season when prices are lower and crowds are thinner. And it worked. We saw the beautiful ruined cities of Petra and Jerash with few tourists for company. And the tour prices are, on average, 30% cheaper than during the high season. 

Of course, if you travel in the off season, you need to be aware that it can be cold. It’s unusual but possible for snow to fall on Petra, for example. And exposed places like the top of Mt Nebo and the Citadel in Amman, you will need to wrap up warm with the full works: hat, scarf, gloves, waterproof. 

It’s also a great season for seeing the more authentic side of Jordan. And with fewer tourists around, people are more relaxed and likely to stop and chat. 

What to eat in Jordan

Food is a big, feasting, sharing tradition in Jordan and it comes with plenty of fresh salads, hummus and flat breads. You can read more about Jordanian food here , including recipes, but expect plenty of cardamom coffee, baba ghanoush, rice and meat based dishes like mansaf and the hard white yoghurt of lebneh. 

Vegetarianism is still seen as a quirky curiosity across most of the country but it shouldn’t be too difficult to find meat free options. 

If you’re travelling on a Globus Tour, then most evening meals will involve a buffet in one of the four and five star hotels. This will offer plenty of local options but also some international food, in case the saffron and sumac is getting too much. 

On the other hand, if you’re feeling more adventurous, then you can ask your guide to arrange a home visit or cooking class for you (for an additional charge) in the evening. 

Lunchtimes are a mix between large restaurants that cater for large groups of tourists or off the beaten path co-ops that burst with local traditions and flavours.

If you’re travelling independently, of course, you can choose whichever you wish. Although, bear in mind that some of the cooking classes and home visits rely on personal introductions, often through tour companies, so you may find your options more limited than they first appear.

What about dietary restrictions in Jordan

In general, the Jordanian customs are extremely hospitable and people will try to cater for your needs. That said, it’s still not that common to present vegan, gluten free and lactose free options as a matter of routine. As always, travel with a translated version of what you need to ask about, remain calm and polite and bring your own snacks, just in case.

What to wear in Jordan

It’s natural to be slightly concerned about what to wear in Jordan – and in fact I’m going to write a whole new post about it. 

Certain parts of the country, particularly in the desert, are extremely conservative and there you will see women fully covered with a headscarf and burqa. In Amman, on the other hand, don’t be surprised to see women in skin tight leather trousers and slouchy sweaters with their hair loose. 

So what should you do?

In short, it’s best to wear loose clothes that go down to your wrists and ankles. Girls, it’s handy to have a scarf with you for visiting holy sites (and sheltering from the rain) but other than that, it’s rarely necessary. Keep shoulders and cleavage covered and avoid slits in skirts and dresses.

Is Jordan safe?

In short, yes. While nowhere is perfect, Jordan has had a stable government for many years. The main places that tourists will visit are far from the borders with places in conflict. The police presence is visible and the level of street harassment is very, very low, even from hawkers. As a solo female traveller , I’ve walked around Rainbow Street and Downtown Amman on my own with no trouble at all.

Is it a good idea to travel to Jordan with kids?

Yes and no. While I’m a passionate supporter of family travel and write about plenty of family travel itineraries, there are a few things to bear in mind about Jordan. Firstly, Petra is huge and is best enjoyed by walking around. Secondly, the Dead Sea isn’t fun to splash around in: all that salt hurts! Finally, the desert in Wadi Rum doesn’t have many facilities. It’s part of its beauty but it does make things harder if you’re travelling with very young children. 

If you’re travelling with teens, I would highly recommend a trip to Jordan for your family travel bucket list. But for children younger than 10-12, I would recommend waiting. You’d be fine but you’ll enjoy it a lot more (and so will they) when they are older.

What to pack for Jordan

Don’t fall for the myth that the Middle East is always hot. Even in the summer, temperatures plunge at night in the desert. 

I would recommend packing long sleeve, long legged trousers in cool linens, with some thermals and a lightweight jacket and warmer jacket as well. Make sure you have proper walking shoes of hiking boots for areas outside the city. 

It’s not essential for women to cover their hair but it is really useful to pack a scarf to protect yourself from the sand if it’s windy. 

Don’t forget to pack a travel adapter , your usual medication, chargers and so on. See our ultimate packing checklist here.

What is it like to travel solo in JOrdan?

If you join a group tour, it’s going to be a whole lot of fun. If you don’t speak Arabic and you’re travelling on your own, then it’s going to be intense and quite hard work. It’s a safe country, though, with a tradition of politeness and hospitality. Even the markets feel far calmer and safer than, say, Cairo or Marrakech.

Do you need a visa for Jordan?

Obviously, this depends to some extent on your own passport status. But in general, US and UK citizens can collect a tourist visa upon entry to Jordan and the process is straightforward. Always check properly in advance, though, with your own government. 

How to get to Jordan

Most visitors arrive into Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA) in Amman. Flights connect to most of the world’s major hubs, from London Heathrow to New York. The airport is around 45 minutes drive from downtown Amman. While not the most exciting airport in the world, it is clean and well equipped for shopping and eating.

From London, both British Airways and Royal Jordanian fly from London Heathrow. The fastest way to connect from Heathrow to central London is via the Heathrow Express to Paddington Station, the gateway to the west, southwest and Wales. Using the Heathrow Express website in advance, you can book tickets for as little as  £5.50. Plus, children 15 and under travel for free.

How to get around Jordan

The easiest way to get around Jordan, by far, is by car or coach with a dedicated driver. As mentioned above, given the border situation with neighbouring countries, it’s not the best place for a self drive. 

In Amman, you can walk or take a taxi or Uber pretty easily. Public transport options do exist but if your time is short and you’re trying to get through this 7 day Jordan itinerary, then your own wheels make the most sense. 

What currency do you need for Jordan?

Jordanians use the Jordanian Dinar, which equates to around 1 GBP or 0.8 USD. In main hotels and some tourist sites, you can pay in USD but it’s always a good idea to have some local currency on you just in case. ATMs are plentiful and straightforward to use in Amman.

More on Travel in Jordan

See our travel guide to the best things to do in Jordan and then browse through the articles below:

• Jordanian Food: the 21 dishes you need to know
• What is it like to visit Petra?
• Is Petra at night worth it?
• The ecolodge where you can spend a night with the Bedouin
• How the Madaba mosaics show the pathway to peace
• How to create your Jordan bucket list

You may also be interested in this article on the best places to visit in the Middle East.

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JORDAN , Middle East

Ultimate jordan itinerary: 7, 10 & 14 day trips.

Without question, Jordan is one of the safest, most stable and most delightful Middle Eastern countries to visit.

And for this reason, it’s an absolutely ideal country for first-time or solo travellers in the region.

From sensational ruins to incredible desertscapes, the famous ancient city of Petra to the amazing float-friendly Dead Sea, along with some of the most amazing hospitality I’ve ever experienced, there’s no question the small country of Jordan packs a big travel punch.

So, if you’re a keen traveller thinking of ticking this country off your list soon, here’s 3 fantastic Jordan itineraries that’ll get you all fired up and ready to hit up this awesome destination before you can even utter the words Middle East adventure!

Covering 1-2 weeks, they’re sure to help you plan the perfect trip.

Related Posts

• Solo Female Travel in the Middle East – What to Expect!
• 23 Amazing Things to Do in the Middle East
• 11 Items You Should Never Travel to the Middle East Without

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1 Week Jordan Itinerary

My 1 week Jordan itinerary is designed for those who only have a short trip planned.

7 days is going to give you just enough time to see the top highlights of this fabulous country, which you can definitely visit independently, or with guided tours, if you like.

Day 1: Amman

Start your time in Jordan’s capital Amman – this is likely to be where you’ll enter the country and makes for the perfect introduction.

Indeed this super relaxed capital honestly feels more like a town than a city and is the perfect place to stroll around in order to get acquainted with this friendly and welcoming country.

From falafel tastings to mosque visits, roman ruins to bustling souks, there’s loads of great things to see and do in Amman that will keep you more than entertained for at least one day.

Learn more in my list of the top 13 things to do in Amman and when it comes to good value accommodation in the capital, highly recommended is Jordan Towers , which boasts an amazing location in downtown Amman, some of the best free breakfasts I’ve ever tasted and super fast, free wifi.

With a roof terrace, as well as spotlessly clean dorms and private rooms, it’s a great place to base yourself in the capital.

Day 2: Jerash

One of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world, there’s absolutely no question that Jerash is a total must on any travel itinerary of Jordan.

Easily accessible from the capital Amman, I’d actually just recommend taking a day trip to Jerash and then returning to the capital to spend the night.

Not only is this less stressful, but the level and price of accommodation is better in Amman compared to Jerash too.

That said, you will need to allow a good few hours to see and experience everything at Jerash, because this place is seriously huge.

I’d certainly recommend an early start for your day trip, not least because the public minivans that run there can take a while to fill up and start moving!

Welcome to the Middle East!

Once you do get to Jerash, you don’t need to take a guide, because wandering around the ruins here with your Jordan Lonely Planet will totally suffice when it comes to marvelling at this huge and ancient city.

And don’t be put off by the awful souvenir shops at the entrance either… it gets better I promise!

Honestly, once you get into the city itself and start wandering this beautifully preserved and tout-free Roman town, you’ll forget all about them!

Remember to take a hat, sunscreen and water for your Jerash adventure and when you’re finished, it’s an easy minivan ride back to Amman.

For day trips to Jerash, look no further than these great offerings , which have some of the best prices around.

Day 3: Dead Sea

On Day 3 in Jordan, it’s time for another day trip out of the capital, this time to the incredible floating water world of the Dead Sea.

Honestly, I had no idea just how cool the sensation of being totally buoyant was going to be, so let me point out to you now that it’s actually way more fun than it sounds!

The downside about the Dead Sea in Jordan is the very limited public transport that goes there, but you can avoid taxi fees if you’re on a budget by taking one of Jordan Towers’ excellent backpacker-style tours.

These tours tend to run daily and generally bring 4 travellers together so that the cost of a driver and vehicle are shared.

In addition to the Dead Sea, the trip also includes panoramic lookouts, the Madaba Mosaics (which just happen to include the earliest map of Palestine ever found) and Mount Nebo – where Moses is supposed to have spotted the Promised Land.

A full day itinerary with a local driver who, although not an official guide, will be able to offer you a great insight into life in Jordan, I highly recommend Jordan Towers trip to the Dead Sea, especially if you’re a solo traveller looking to meet other adventurers like I was.

Day 4: Kings Highway Tour

After returning to spend the night in Amman following your Dead Sea trip, it’s up early to begin your journey to Petra, Jordan’s star attraction.

While you can travel straight to Petra from Amman either via local minibus or the slightly more luxurious Jett Bus, Jordan Towers actually offer another top day trip to Petra, which allows you to see some stunning sights on the way, which are otherwise totally impossible to get to without your own transport.

These include the Roman ruins of Umm ar-Rasas, the Mujib Valley, Karak Castle, the Dana Valley and Shobak Castle, all of which sit along the Kings Highway – a road that provides some of Jordan’s most stunning scenery too.

Because of how much you see (and how fab the views are), I highly recommend taking a day to experience the King’s Highway Tour – it makes for a far more exciting, scenic and interesting journey to Petra than the main road.

As a full day trip however, it does mean you won’t arrive into Wadi Musa – the town nearest to Petra – until about 6pm, so it’s a good idea to already have your accommodation here booked.

In my opinion, the great-value spot of Petra Gate Hoste l is hard to beat.

Day 5 & 6: Petra

And then enter the piece de resistance, Petra is absolutely worth 2 days of your Jordan itinerary.

The Red Rose City is far bigger and grander than every picture you’ve ever seen lets on, and from its walking trails to its monasteries, tombs, theatres and caves, you really will need a couple of days to get your head around the place… and you’ll need at least one empty memory card for your camera too!

An easy downhill walk from Petra Gate Hostel in Wadi Musa, the visitor centre at Petra is a great place to pick up a free map and plan your time in this ancient desert city too.

Must-sees at Petra include the famous Siq and Treasury, as well as the Theatre, Royal Tombs, the Monastery and you don’t miss the trail of the High Place of Sacrifice either!

Learn more about how to see Petra for less with this helpful article I wrote all about visiting this ancient city on the cheap!

Day 7: Wadi Rum

And with one last day in Jordan, there’s no question a night in the desert of Wadi Rum is the perfect way to end a jam-packed week in this country.

Easily accessible via public bus from Wadi Musa, Wadi Rum is a stunning desert landscape populated by the Bedouin People who offer incredible safari tours and camping under the stars in this remote and stark landscape.

I actually booked my Wadi Rum tour (because you have to take a tour) through Petra Gate Hostel and scored an excellent deal that included transport to and from Wadi Rum village, a full day safari jeep tour, a night in a beautiful Bedouin camp, plus breakfast, lunch and dinner.

A definite highlight of my time in Jordan, Wadi Rum will give you a very different, but still dazzling side of Jordan.

Learn more about what you should pack if you want to explore this desert region in my full guide about what to wear in Jordan .

10 Day Jordan Itinerary

If you’re lucky enough to have 10 days for your Jordan itinerary, then I’d highly recommend following the 7 day itinerary above, but giving yourself an extra night in Amman either at the start or end of your trip.

This will give you time to explore what is known as the country’s Desert Castles, which lie to the east of the capital, near the town of Azraq.

Again, although they can be difficult to see without your own transport, Jordan Towers offers day trips for budget travellers to see around 5 of these castles by pairing you with other backpackers, a driver and a vehicle.

For history buffs, this is a must-do trip that takes you through the desert towards the Iraqi border.

With 8 days of your Jordan itinerary then planned out, why not spend the remaining 2 days relaxing on the country’s coastline?

Aqaba is Jordan’s famous Red Sea resort and where the locals go to let their hair down.

From diving to partying, relaxing to snorkelling, there’s plenty to do here, almost all of which revolves around the sand, sea and sun.

As such, I’d actually avoid staying in the town of Aqaba itself, and instead book 2 nights at one of the many South Beach accommodation options instead.

Top of the list is Darna Village Beach Hostel , which continues to get rave reviews from travellers thanks to its top facilities, great location and friendly staff.

2 Week Jordan Itinerary

For your 2 week Jordan Itinerary, I’d highly suggest following the 10 day programme above and then combining this with an extra day in Petra.

With 3 full days in this ancient city you’re likely to be able to see it from every angle, as well as enjoy some very early morning and evening views after the crowds have dissipated.

Staying at the Infinity Lodge in Petra will also give you an extra special experience!

The best and cheapest way to access Petra for 3 days is to invest in the Jordan Expert Pass . Learn more about this by checking out my article everything you need to know about travelling in Jordan .

And then finally, with 3 days of your 2 week Jordan itinerary still remaining, some incredible opportunities for hiking in the Dana or Mujib Reserves await you.

The best way to get off the beaten track in Jordan, heading to one of these protected areas of natural beauty will provide you with some of Jordan’s best scenery and ecotourism experiences.

From the numerous trails you can explore with guides, to the hidden accommodation options that deliver solitude and seclusion, this is a Jordan experience you certainly won’t forget in a hurry.

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Jordan Mini Travel Guide

When to Visit Jordan?

No question in my mind that you should definitely visit Jordan during the spring and autumn seasons i.e. from April to May and September to October.

This will allow you to get the most from the country’s lovely historical and natural sites without being either too hot or too cold!

How to Get There?

Most people access Jordan by flying into the international airport in the capital Amman.

As always, I use Skyscanner to find the best prices.

If you are crossing into Amman overland from Jerusalem, check out this post that details all the ins and outs of crossing this border.

Top 5 Packing Items for Jordan

#1 Good Camera – You will be pretty much snapping non-stop during your time in Jordan and will need a good camera to do this gorgeous country justice. I highly recommend the Sony A6000 , which I use for all my travels and love, not least because it’s light, compact and robust!

#2 Good Walking Shoes – There will be a lot of sightseeing in Jordan, it’s as simple as that! Make sure your feet are comfortable therefore with a pair of New Balance Trainers . I love mine!

#3 Head Lamp – Great for taking into Roman ruins to get an even better look at the amazing engravings and for any power cuts you may experience in Jordan, I love my Black Diamond Storm , which served me super well in this country.

#4 Sun Hat – Trips to Roman ruins, crusader castles and Petra will mean many hours in the hot sun of Jordan. Do yourself a favour and bring a wide-brimmed hat to protect you. I love this Hello Sunshine design.

#5 Long Thin Trousers – While Jordan isn’t a super strict Muslim country, you’re unlikely to feel comfortable walking around in anything too short. As such a pair of long, thin cotton or linen trousers provides the perfect attire for this hot country.

Travel Insurance for Jordan

Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

SAVE THIS TO PINTEREST!

Despite being a tiny country, I think this Jordan itinerary makes clear exactly how much there is to do in this beauty of a Middle Eastern spot.

Ideal for both a short break or as part of wider Middle Eastern tour, there’s no question Jordan is a top up-and-coming destination.

Have you visited this amazing gem of a country?

Did you love it as much as me?

I’d love to hear from you in the comments box below…

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

14 thoughts on “ Ultimate Jordan Itinerary: 7, 10 & 14 Day Trips ”

Hi there, including prices would help out a bunch!!!

Hi Tien, thanks for your great suggestion – unfortunately prices change regularly and this makes it hard to keep posts accurate if I list amounts – especially as I blog about many different countries. Latest prices can always be found by going direct to the websites of the products I mention such as the Jordan pass, Jordan Visa, Accommodation Websites and Petra Visitor Website. If there is any prices you want in particular, please drop me a line and I will try my best to get the latest info for you. Thanks, Steph

Hi, roughly how much did that package of Wadi Rum cost?

Oh gosh Caroline, I’m not sure I can remember, but I’m guessing around $50 USD? Are you thinking of heading to Jordan soon?

Hi There. Planning to spend a week or so in amman. Very informative blog you have here! Helped me gain quick knowledge about so many things. I am an avid traveller too – always travel with my wife. Done america and europe and some more and now planning jordan and israel on separate trips. amman accommodation baffles me. The jordan hostel for a basic double ensuite room costs about INR 2500 plus 26 % taxes/charges. We are Seniors and do not wish to use shared baths.For similar amount I am getting a 3 star hotel in the city. But I want to use the hostel package tours which you say are cheap. So what do you recommend we do? Also can you tell me about the breakfast timings and what they serve at the hostel?

Hi there, thanks for your question and delighted to hear you are heading to the Middle East soon. If a 3 star hotel in the city suits you best, do that and then go to the hostel to book one of their tours. As far as I know, the tours are open to people not staying there too. Breakfast at Jordan Towers is amazing – I think it runs from 7am – 10am is a Middle Eastern feast – so hummus, olives, tomato and cucumber, plus eggs, tea / coffee, bread and normally some sort of cake too! There’s also ham and cheese on offer for those who eat it.

Hi Steph. You are a rockstar, a Robinhood of Travel Maniacs. 🙂 We are a couple travelling to Jordan and Egypt from 23 Dec 18-04 Jan 19, with a 10 year old daughter. Is it advisable to stay at Dead Sea and Wadi Rum Camps in the winters, or the day trips would be better? Also, will the weather allow us to do water sports at Red Sea? if yes, what is recommended, Aqaba or Dahab???

Ha ha brilliant! This comment made me smile and laugh from ear to ear! Having not travelled Egypt this time of year, I can’t talk about the Dead Sea and Wadi Rum camps with full certainty, but I do know December holidays are a busy time in this part of the world, so you would likely be ok to stay overnight there – probably just a few extra layers needed! I’d have to research more to be 100% certain however. Also staying overnight in Wadi Rum really is the highlight when all those stars come out and you get to camp in peace and the wilderness. When it comes to the Red Sea, I’d advise Dahab over Aqaba every time. Again, not been here this time of year and I know the sun disappears early, like Europe, as the shortest day of the year is just before your arrival, but I’m sure many do still visit at Christmas time. In terms of dive conditions, I’d recommend emailing a dive school there and asking. Not sure how warm the water would is the other concern!

I am glad I could make the diva smile. I meant every bit of it. Coming back to misery, how can one save on money with the guides in Amman, Jerash and Petra, considering visit to historical monuments without them would be meaningless.

I didn’t take guides in any of those places to be honest and found them all worthwhile even without it. Otherwise, probably haggling with guides in each specific location would get you the best deal. Still smiling! 🙂

Great itineraries! Looks like you had a wonderful visit!

Sure did! Jordan is epic!

Great Post!

Thanks David

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10 Days in Jordan [Best Jordan Itinerary]

By Author Paulina

Posted on Published: March 21, 2019  - Last updated: January 25, 2024

It has been a while since I discovered a new country that I haven’t visited before. I have this habit of returning often to the same places like Spain or Portugal in order to get to know them better.

However, I really missed the sensation of exploring a new country with all my senses: tasting exotic food, immersing in a new culture, listening to foreign music, and learning tidbits of an unknown language,…

That’s how my choice felt upon Jordan, a country that I barely knew anything about. With 10 days in Jordan at my disposal, I was ready to dive into Jordan, the land of Petra, Bedouins and the Dead Sea.

In this Jordan Itinerary for 10 days, I share with you the almost same itinerary that I did during my visit in February. I adjusted it a little bit in order to have an itinerary that I would do if I visit again.

For example, I wish I could have stayed longer in Petra and Wadi Rum.

Jordan was a trip of a lifetime and I am still blown away by the kindness of its people, the beauty of its nature and the striking variety of landscapes.

I particularly liked the variety of this 10-day itinerary: adventures, luxury experiences, deserts, bucket list items, culture, and history…

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Table of Contents

My 10-Day Jordan Itinerary

For every mentioned place, I recommend the hotels we stayed in and the restaurants that I particularly enjoyed. – Book here all your Jordan tours and activities

With most of the tourist attractions being in the South (also known as the Golden Triangle), this Jordan itinerary can be done in 5 days, 8 days in Jordan or more.

I visited Jordan with a rental car and I would do it again. More tips on renting a car in Jordan below. Check here the best prices of car rentals in Jordan.

1. Day in Jordan: Amman

Temple in amman citadel.

Amman, the capital of Jordan, is a great place to start your Jordan trip. I recommend taking at least one day in order to visit at your ease.

The Queen Alia airport is located at 1-hour drive from Amman city center, but you can book your airport transfer here.

If you have only one day in Amman , I highly recommend visiting the citadel, the Roman theatre, and the bazaar.

All of the sites are located close by, so you can easily walk from one to another. My favorite was definitely the Temple of Hercules in the citadel (free with Jordan Pass) which overlooks entire Amman.

The historic roots of this site go back to the Bronze Age and I was fascinated by the mix of architectural attractions.

Indeed, you’ll walk from a Roman temple to a Umayyad Palace and a Byzantine church within 10 minutes. All in front of a jaw-dropping background of bustling Amman .

Book here your Amman Walking Tour

Walking Tour in Amman

From here, you can walk down to the Roman theatre and explore Amman downtown area. The most famous street is Rainbow street where you can find countless restaurants and shops. I loved walking through the souk and spot potential souvenirs.

However, I recommend saving your money and purchase a souvenir that is made by the local community and where you support economic development like at Jordan River Designs.

In Amman, I made a super curious discovery! At least over 100 pigeon sellers gathering in Hashemi street, close to the Roman Nymphaeum! Apparently , pigeon training is the unofficial national sport of Jordan! 

Related: 15 Cool Things To Do in Amman

Where to stay in Amman

I recommend staying in Amman Pasha Hotel **, in front of the spectacular Roman theater.

It serves delicious food, comes with several complimentary services and the staff was so warm-hearted! Be ready to hear the enchanting prayers at the mosque close by.

Book here your stay in Amman Pasha Hotel ** Read more about where to stay in Jordan and the best hotels in Jordan .

2. Day in Jordan: Jerash via Mt. Nebo to the Dead Sea

Forum in jerash.

I absolutely wanted to visit Jerash, as I had heard so many things about its unique historical sites!

Indeed, the ruins dating 6500 years back are the best preserved Roman architectural site in the Middle East.

Located at 1 hour from Amman, Jerash is a great day trip from the capital. We decided to visit Jerash in the morning before heading to the Dead Sea via Mount Nebo.

My expectations on Jerash were high, but, man, the magnitude and the perfect condition of the ruins blew me away!

You always wanted to feel what it’s like to be in a perfect Ben Hur setting? Well, in Jerash you’ll stand in the middle of a hippodrome that could host up to 15.000 people!

Another highlight of Jerash, besides Hadrian’s Arch, was the South Theatre which could house up to 5000 people.

It is perfectly maintained and a band of Jordanian bagpipe and drummers are playing in the afternoon in order to showcase the perfect acoustic of the theatre.

You can easily spend one day in Jerash, but unfortunately, we were a little bit limited in time.

When visiting the ruins of Jerash, you can’t leave without visiting the Hippodrome , the forum, the Artemis and Hercules temple, and the Cardo Maximus.

Book here your day trip to Jerash from Amman

Visiting Jerash will give you the unique opportunity to feel like at Roman times as the top condition of the ruins is hard to beat.

If you want to learn more about the history behind all these impressive walls, I highly recommend hiring one of the local guides at the entrance.

From here, it is a 2 h drive to the Dead Sea via Mount Nebo, the place where Moses saw the Promised Land for the first time.

Moses is buried in the area of Mount Nebo where you can visit several religious sites like Moses’ Spring or Moses Memorial Church.

We were not very lucky with the weather, but apparently, on good days, you can see over to West Bank.

The road down from Mount Nebo to the Dead Sea ( lowest point on earth with -423 m below sea level) is an experience on its own and will give you a foretaste of the desert landscapes that are awaiting you in Wadi Rum.

Book here your Mount Nebo, Madaba – Dead Sea Tour from Amman

3. Day in Jordan: Dead Sea

View on the dead sea.

The Dead Sea was definitely one of the highlights of my Jordan trip. It’s not only a bucket list item for many, but it is also a natural attraction that you don’t want to miss.

First, I recommend visiting as long as you can, because the Dead Sea is dying! Indeed, every year, the “sea” (it’s actually a lake) level goes down.

There are no budget hotels on the Jordan side of the Dead Sea, so if you want to get pampered or enjoy a luxury experience in Jordan, then the Dead Sea area is the place.

Book here your day trip from Amman to the Dead Sea

It’s important to know that most beaches are private, thus they belong to one of the 4* or 5* hotels. Or you pay for your stay or you pay 20-25 JOD (= +/- 25-32 €) to enter.

The shore of the Dead Sea is rocky and has no easy access to the water. On top, I’m sure you’ll want to rinse off the salt after your “swim”.

When it comes to public beaches at the Dead Sea, you’ll want to visit Amman Beach which comes with showers. However, you’ll pay for mud (3 JOD, = +/- 4 €) and towels! Read more on how to visit Dead Sea Jordan on a budget. Read more about things to do in Dead Sea, Jordan.

READ: The Best Dead Sea Resort and Hotels in Jordan

Dancing in Hilton Dead Sea

Where to stay in dead sea, jordan.

I wanted to stay longer than only one afternoon at the Dead Sea and I really wanted to enjoy the spa treatments of the Dead Sea without any hustle. That’s why we decided to stay at the Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa ***** .

The Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa ***** was the best place to stay in Dead Sea, Jordan. Besides the staff going always the extra-mile, I loved the direct access to the beach and the heated pool.

The sunset from the Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa ***** infinity pool is probably one of the most memorable ones I’ve experienced so far.

The hotel comes with several dining options, but my favorite were “1312” with its delicious Lebanese cuisine and Bacchus, an Italian restaurant where we had enjoyable chats with the staff.

The welcoming atmosphere really made me feel at home and was the perfect place to fuel up before heading to Wadi Rum desert and Petra.

Read more about where to stay in Jordan and the best hotels in Jordan .

Sustainable aspects:

Considering the fact that the area is fairly arid and much of the sweet water comes from Wadi Mujib, I want to highlight the sustainable efforts of Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa ***** : the company is reducing water usage by 50 percent, soaps are recycled, all plastic straws are banned and the amount spent on local and minority-owned businesses doubled. 70% of the staff comes from Jordan.

Book here your stay at Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa

4. Day in Jordan: Wadi Mujib

Landscapes near wadi mujib.

Unfortunately, during our visit, Wadi Mujib was closed due to floods and rising water. The wet trail is the most popular one, but there are also several ones where you can keep dry.

Wadi Mujib is open for hikers from April to October.

Alternatively, you can visit the Dead Sea Panorama and the museum complex which is a 15 min drive away from the Dead Sea Highway.

The views from the restaurant are breathtaking! 

This is also a great place to start cycling in Jordan or to go hiking in Jordan since the area is famous for its numerous walking trails. 

Book here your guided Wadi Mujib hike

5. Day in Jordan: King’s Highway – Karak – Petra

View on dana reserve from king’s highway.

It’s time to leave the beautiful Dead Sea and hit the road to the most epic attraction of Jordan: Petra!

There are several ways to get there but we opted for a stop in Karak to visit the historic Crusader castle and to drive a considerable part on the King’s Highway which is famous for its cultural value and breathtaking views. The entire ride took us about 4 hours (no stop included).

Karak is well worth a visit if you are interested in castles and fortresses. Access is free with the Jordan Pass and I enjoyed the lovely views over the town. After a short stroll through the small town center, we hit the road to Petra.

Please avoid Kings Restaurant in front of the castle complex! This is a tourist trap and a total rip-off!

The King’s Highway leading to Petra is an attraction on its own and there will be many viewpoints with spectacular vistas above Dana Biosphere Reserve. It’s home to the famous Feynan Ecolodge .

6. Day in Jordan: Petra

Treasury at 6 am after it snow-rain. Still breathtaking.

Petra was the attraction where I had the highest expectations before traveling to Jordan.

I don’t want to say that I was disappointed, but I honestly didn’t expect such crowds (in low season), littering, witness animal mistreatment, being ripped off (5 JOD or 6 $/€ for an orange juice?!), daredevil Instagrammers looking for the perfect shot while risking their lives and countless souvenir shops selling souvenirs mostly “ Made in China .” Rant over.

With that being said, you cannot leave Jordan without having seen Petra! The magnitude of the site, the impressive sandstone carvings, and the natural landscape will definitely be unforgettable experience.

Book here your tour from Amman and Aqaba to Petra

I highly recommend being early if you want to escape the crowds, the site opens at 6 am and at 6.20 am, I was standing in front of the Treasury. Alone. That moment compensated for all the less enchanting experiences later on.

You’ll read soon more about how to visit Petra. Here a quick list of tips:

• Read about Petra before visiting, you’ll enjoy the visit more and the background of the Nabatean civilization is fascinating.
• Consider visiting in low season (October – March) in order to avoid the crowds and unbearable heat.
• Wear comfortable shoes: you’ll walk a lot! It takes 20 minutes to walk from the entrance to the Treasury and calculate 3 hours (including return) to visit the monastery accessible via 822 steps.
• Bring food and enough water (min 2 l), there are great places for picnics, but please don’t litter! Some hotels offer lunch packages.
• The viewpoints on the treasury are hard to reach and unless you’re a (very) independent traveler, they will be hard to find. We went without a guide following the steps to the High Place of Sacrifice, from here, up to the summit before hiking down a siq (canyon). The entire trail took us about 2 hours, there is a shortcut when you turn left from the Treasury. Many guides will offer their help to get to the viewpoint. As we went without and on a different trail, I cannot tell whether their services are useful or not.

Amra Palace International Hotel ***

Where to stay in petra.

All hotels are located in Wadi Musa from where you can drive or take a taxi to Petra Historical Site. The Mövenpick Resort Petra *****  is the closest you can get to Petra and one of the luxury hotels in Petra.

We stayed at Amra Palace International Hotel *** which has a shuttle to the Heritage Site, a spa with Turkish bath, massages and shisha bar. The hotel is fully renovated.

The hotel is managed by a local family, thus a great occasion to give back to the local community.

Book here your stay in Amra Palace International Hotel ***

7. Day in Jordan: Petra

At the monastery.

The second day in Petra is the day where you can get up really early in order to enjoy the site without the crowds.

It’s also the perfect opportunity to visit the places you couldn’t visit the day before like the Monastery, the High Place of Sacrifice, Little Petra,…

You may also consider Petra by Night, where you’ll enjoy the treasury in a unique atmosphere decorated with 1500 candles. During our stay, it was canceled due to the rain.

Petra by Night runs every Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday of each week and costs 17 JOD.

If you decide to spend 2 days in Petra, I recommend visiting Wadi Musa, the town (where people actually live and work). It was a great opportunity to get an insight in daily Jordan grind. Without the hassle of a major tourist site like Petra.

For dining in Wadi Musa I highly recommend Al-Wadi restaurant.

After your visit, hit the road to Wadi Rum (1h30 from Petra).

8. Day in Jordan: Wadi Rum

Going wild in the desert.

After arriving in Wadi Rum village, leave your car at the main parking and get picked up by your host. I absolutely recommend spending the night in a Bedouin camp.

It’s a unique experience where you’ll get a special insight into Bedouin culture and Wadi Rum desert.

I stayed at Wadi Rum Quiet Village , managed by Saleem and his family. Without any doubt, staying at the camp and getting to know Saleem’s family like Mohammed or Hussein definitely outperformed Petra as the highlight of my trip to Jordan.

Their kindness and knowledge about desert life will make your Jordan holiday simply unforgettable. – Book here your stay in Wadi Rum Quiet Village

After spending the first night in Wadi Rum, you’ll be ready to explore the breathtaking landscapes of this unique natural setting. You can book the tours right in the camp or book your full Wadi Rum Quiet Village package here.

We went for a Jeep Tour with Hussein and he showed us the most important rock formations in Wadi Rum. The tour was super diverse as it included some hiking parts, climbing on rocks, dancing in the sand dunes,…

Read more about things to do in Wadi Rum

View on Quiet Village Wadi Rum

The tour included the following Wadi Rum attractions :  Burdah Rock Bridge, Al Hasany Dunes, Jebel Rum, Lawrence Spring and House, Khazali Siq, Nabataean inscriptions,…

In the afternoon, we went for a sunset camel tour. I don’t have the words to describe the beautiful colors of the sunset. It was a magic moment.

Camels are used to the desert and bedouins work with them for several centuries. Unlike the camels in Petra, the camels of Saleem were very well-fed and tranquil . The tour took about 45 min and costs 20 JOD (= +/- 47 €).

I also want to make a big shoutout to the food served at Wadi Rum Quiet Village . It was the best I’ve eaten on the entire Jordan trip.

Food is being prepared based upon traditional Bedouin recipes and methods: it’s slow-cooked for 2 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.

Book here your stay in Wadi Rum Quiet Village

9. Day in Jordan: Wadi Rum – Aqaba

Setting of wadi rum quiet village.

After an adventurous day in Wadi Rum, it’s time to relax and unwind a bit. I recommend taking the time to interact with the Bedouins at the camp.

It really is a unique opportunity to learn about their lifestyle and traditions. (If you can’t avoid the wifi in the main tent) – Read more about things to do in Wadi Rum

The most common way to socialize is around a cup of tea (with sage in winter, with mint in summer). There’s always tea at your disposal in Wadi Rum Quiet Village and I loved getting to know more about Saleem and his family.

All the guys in Wadi Rum Quiet Village emitted such serenity and calm. You can truly feel their love for desert life and a sense of harmony with their natural surroundings.

Even though desert life is hard and comes with its very own challenges, the guys live and breathe positivity.

Unfortunately, we had to say goodbye in the afternoon in order to drive to the last destination of this Jordan itinerary: Aqaba

Book here your tour to Wadi Rum from Aqaba or Amman

10. Day in Jordan: Aqaba

The ride between 2 worlds, Wadi Rum and Aqaba , takes about 1 hour and the contrast couldn’t be bigger.

Whereas desert life is all about simplicity, pure nature, and total disconnection, Aqaba is the easy-going seaside resort with countless bars, restaurants and leisure options.

It really took me a while to “arrive” in Aqaba. The last day of your 10 Days Jordan Itinerary will be spent by relaxing at the beach and enjoying the good life.

Being the only coastal city in Jordan , Aqaba is known for being a low-tax, duty-free area. Together with Petra and Wadi Rum, it forms Jordan’s Golden Triangle.

Spending the last days of your Jordan holiday in Aqaba is a great idea as it’s a hub for beach lovers, water sports and diving enthusiasts.

Also, the town itself is great for souvenir shopping and enjoying traditional Jordanian food. It’s also the only place in Jordan where you can indulge in seafood.

Even though there’s a public beach in Aqaba , I cannot recommend it: it’s crowded, loud, dirty, and not suited for Western girls in their bikinis. If you still can’t resist a dip, please wear a shirt over your bikini.

Sustainable tourism: book here a snorkel activity for a cleaner ocean

Boasting warm temperatures even in winter, I’m sure you’ll want to spend some time on the beach .

For a perfect beach day in Aqaba, I recommend the Berenice Beach Club .

I spent 3 days in a row here, as it’s the closest you can get to paradise: crystal clear water, breathtaking views on Egypt’s mountains, great, tasty food, several swimming pools, a wide offer of water sports and animation…

The entry fee is 10 JOD (= +/- 13 €) and includes a towel, sun loungers, and discounts on the water sports. For 5 JOD (= +/- 6 €), you can rent a snorkel and the beach club comes even with its own diving center! Prices are thus really competitive!

The Berenice Beach Club has a shuttle that takes and brings you from Aqaba (15 min of a scenic drive).

Pure Bliss in Hyatt Regency Aqaba

Where to stay in aqaba.

I stayed in the Hyatt Regency Aqaba Ayla Resort ***** , and it was the perfect place to enjoy the last days in Jordan.

The scenic retreat is nestled amidst mountains and turquoise lagoons, the resort boasts a spa, a gorgeous infinity pool, a beach club and much more. They even offer sunset yoga free of charge!

Besides the breathtaking lobby and entrance gate, I loved the numerous dining options: indulge in a HUGE breakfast buffet, enjoy a cocktail with a sunset view at Cascades and enjoy the upbeat, bohemian atmosphere in La Plage , beach club.

I can tell, it was really hard to leave the Hyatt Regency Aqaba Ayla Resort *****.

Book here your stay in Hyatt Regency Aqaba Ayla Resort *****

Getting home

You can depart from Jordan via Aqaba or Amman airport. Both have international flights.

We drove back to Amman , which is about 4 hours drive. The quickest way to get to Amman is by Desert Highway.

However, you can also opt for the Dead Sea Highway and do some parts via the scenic King’s Highway.

So this was my 10 Day Itinerary to Jordan which can be reduced to 5 or 7 days, or even extended. I really hope you enjoyed the read and that I could transmit on to you my passion for this beautiful country.

Jordan Travel Tips

When to visit jordan.

I visited during February which is low season in Jordan. Although the temperatures can get close to 0°C at night, especially in Wadi Rum and Petra, I don’t regret visiting Jordan during the off-season.

Because even in low season, Petra was SUPER crowded and Jerash was well visited too.

Bearable temperatures range from February to May and October to mid-November. I recommend avoiding the suffocating heat from May – September.

Is it safe to Travel to Jordan?

Yes! I didn’t feel unsafe one single second during these 10 days in Jordan. Even though I was not traveling alone, I had some me-time where I was on my own and I didn’t feel uncomfortable at all. That being said, we never went out of the town centers.

Okay, yes, some Jordanians are flirty but with a firm “N o, thank you! ”, they get your point.

The extreme safety in Jordan, despite being surrounded by countries at war, is mostly due to the very severe penalties for those Jordanian citizens harming tourists.

So, yes, in retrospect, I would travel solo as a woman to Jordan.

Renting a car in Jordan

I visited Jordan with a rental car and absolutely recommend the experience. Doing in total 1000 km in 10 days, we had no bad experience. Of course, you need to be a bit more careful than on European roads, but Jordanians usually drive cautiously.

Be aware of forgotten indicators and for countless speed controls on the road.

Our rental car was from Arena Cars at Amman airport. Check here the best prices for renting a car in Jordan.

Travel Costs Jordan

Surprisingly, Jordan is quite an expensive country! Whether you come from the US or Europe, Jordan is not a cheap destination. The JOD has the equivalent value of the GBP, so estimate 2 JOD (= +/- 3 €) for a bottle of water and an average 8 JOD (= +/- 10 €) for lunch.

Entry Visa costs (40 JOD, = +/- 51 €), if you land in Amman . I’ve been told that no visa is required if you enter via Aqaba airport.

In order to save money, I highly recommend the Jordan Pass as it weaves VISA costs (40 JOD, = +/- 51 €)), and includes the entry to all major sites like Petra (50 JOD, = +/- 64 €), Jerash, Wadi Rum, Amman Citadel and many more.

You can get the pass online and it costs 70-80 JOD (= +/- 89-102 €). Make sure to purchase it in advance and show it at customs at arrivals.

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. Get here the best deals for action cameras + free shipping.
• 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. Buy here your eco-friendly sunscreen + free shipping.
• I always carry a light rain jacket, just in case. Get here the best deals on rain jackets + free shipping.
• 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

Disclaimer: I have been supported by Jordan Tourism. All my opinions, as always, are my own. This posts contains affiliate links. In case you purchase one of the items, I’ll receive a small commission. The price remains the same for you.

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! 🌍🚀

Wednesday 15th of July 2020

Hi Paulina, thank you for this useful trip description. I loved the detailed description of the places! Since I'm planning on visiting Jordan in early Nov(if the borders open), I would really appreciate you opinion on car rentals. I've read various blogs regarding car rental and most say it is not an option cause of the roads and crazy drivers Being from southern Europe, I'm really not that sure the roads are that bad. In your opinion, is it ok to rent a car and drive entire trip instead of taking a driver or taxi all the time?! We arrive to Aqaba and leave from there, so following your steps but backwards. Thank you in advance

Dear Olena, thank you so much for your kind comment! I really appreciate it a lot :) I did the entire 10-day tour by car...and we had NO issue at all! Ok, sometimes you need to be a bit careful, but that said, the main roads are great! On top, highlights such as the King's Highway are best discovered by car. Thus, yes yes yes to driving in Jordan. :) I booked my car with Discover Cars, they often have deals with up to -20% cheaper. (it's an affiliate link and I'll get a small commission if you book via it. it helps me to keep the blog running. thanks a million in advance)

mayuri patel

Friday 19th of April 2019

What a perfect itinerary! I’ve been wanting to visit Jordan for a long time and just love your shots. I love the idea of Petra by night and bookmarking this post for reference.Thank you for sharing.

Thank you so much for your sweet comment. Jordan is such a beautiful place to visit. When will you go? :)

Katie Diederichs

Saturday 23rd of March 2019

I've been itching to make it to Jordan for a while now, and this is one of the most comprehensive articles I've seen. Such great tips (and photos!). I'll be pinning this for when I start planning a trip there (hopefully soon!).

Monday 25th of March 2019

Thank you so much for your kind words! Jordan is an awesome place to visit all the landscapes are so diverse and there seems to be something for everybody: desert, wellness, watersports... you'll love it!

Super useful post Paulina! I'd love to follow your exact itinerary, thank you for all the info! I hope to make this dream happen someday soon!

Thank you so much for your kind words Diana! If you ll go someday, just let me know I would love to share some tips. Jordan is like made for you: full of the most scenic photo locations!

What a solid itinerary! I've been wanting to visit Jordan for a long time and just love some of these shots. Your cute dress also matched the scenery perfectly! I love the idea of Petra by night, never knew you could do that so thanks for sharing.

Thank you so much for your comment Natasha! I am so glad that you like the article, I really tried to share as much valuable information as possible. Petra must be a fairytale experience... unfortunately it was raining AND snowing when we visited, so we couldn't do that. One more reason to go back though ;)

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Timeless Jordan

“Tour was well organized. Thank you for a wonderful trip.” Pamela, traveled in April 2022

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year
• Explore ancient ruins in Jerash
• Discover Petra and ride through the Siq
• Camp under stars in Wadi Rum

Jordan Jewels - 5 Days (Breakfast & Dinner)

“Very well organized tour and the drivers were very nice, helpful and attentive.” Elisabete, traveled in October 2018

• Sightseeing
• Fall in love with the Greco-Roman ruins of Jerash
• Discover hidden treasures at the markets in Amman
• Gaze at the 'Promised Land' from Mount Nebo

Just Jordan - 6 Days

“Jordan is an amazing country with a unique culture and history. Even though it was Ramadan, the atmosphere was different from Egypt but still special.” Hsiao, traveled in April 2024

• Experience a night under the stars in Wadi Rum
• View the Roman amphitheatre and Citadel in Amman
• Discover the hidden treasures in the local bazaar

Jewels of Jordan - Group Tour By Locals

“Would have like more time at Petra.” Judith, traveled in October 2023

• Explore ancient ruins at Umm Qays
• Tour the Citadel and Roman Theatre in Amman
• Discover Petra and the iconic Al Khazneh

Highlights of Jordan

“It was a nice way to hit all the highlights in Jordan in eight days.” John, traveled in February 2024

• Explore ancient Jerash and float in the Dead Sea
• See Madaba mosaics and visit Karak Castle
• Tour the iconic Petra with a knowledgeable guide

Amazing tour Food was yummy Tour guide was so friendly, competent and helpful and very knowledgeable

Our guide driver guide Mustafa was super We had a great time thank you

Hsiao Tan and I both agree that our trip to Jordan with Vacations To Go Travel was a wonderful extension after our time in Egypt. It was a perfect combination, showcasing the best of the Middle East. Initially, we were a bit apprehensive due to the regional situation, but the team ensured our safety and comfort throughout. Jordan's unique culture and history added a special touch to our journey, , and we're grateful to Vacations To Go Travel for providing us with such a fantastic opportunity. Chia Jung

Immerse yourself in the ancient city of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Jordan. Wander through the Siq, marvel at the rose-colored Treasury, and hike to the Monastery. Enjoy the hospitality and culture of the local Bedouins.

Jordan’s Wadi rum, also known as “the Valley of the Moon,” might just be one of the most striking destinations in the world. Explore unique rock formations, traverse golden dunes, stay in Bedouin camps, and visit the ancient site of Petra.

Find the perfect tour for your family, catering to all ages with over 229 family tours available in Jordan.

Fully Guided

Select from our extensive range of 197 fully guided tours to enjoy a worry-free experience through Jordan with our expert guides leading the way.

Choose from over 183 cultural tours and explore historical sites, local traditions and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Jordan.

Embark on a thrilling journey in Jordan, packed with adventure. Experience the raw beauty of Wadi Rum desert on a 4x4 Jeep safari. Test your endurance hiking the trails of Dana Biosphere Reserve. Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Aqaba for an underwater spectacl and float in the Dead Sea.

More travel styles:

"Peter has provided outstanding leading in Egypt. He has rich knowledge of Egyptology and cultural understanding of the history and contemporary life in Egypt. He anticipates the needs of the group and safely navigated our travels throughout Egypt. He shared stories with enthusiasm and humour so we felt we were immersed in life in ancient times. We would highly recommend Peter as your Egypt guide.

Timeless Tours is an expert in:

"The experience in Egypt was incredible - meeting a local family and being invited to their home for “lunch at 5pm”. What more can I say. The tour guide was a great people person with so much knowledge- amazing and thank you!!! Jordan was incredible too. Just a word of advice - be extra careful when hiking around Petra’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. The contact and driver at Jordan was very helpful and supportive after my injury - thank you. Aya even came to visit me whilst in hospital - thank you too.

Vacations to go travel is an expert in:

"This was a packed tour and perfectly laid out. We got there a day early and had the company organize a trip for us to Jerash, Umm Qais and Ajloun. Our driver, Naser was fantastic from the moment we met him. He was very patient, gave us a lot of history along the way and we sang and chatted as well. Perfect company for 7 days! This was a bucket list trip and Jordan did not disappoint. I highly recommended the hot air balloon in Wadi Rum

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TourRadar recommends visiting:

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Jordan itinerary for 5 days full of natural wonders (2024)

This jordan itinerary shares how to have the best time in 5 days in jordan. it will tell you about places to visit in jordan, give you all the details you need for one day in amman, what to see in wadi rum, a day trip to petra on the way to the dead sea, visiting the dead sea and finishing with a half day trip to jerash. read on.

Millions of stars twinkle above us as the desert is enveloped in darkness. It looks like a painter lightly flicked a paintbrush across the sky to create a glittering streak that we call the Milky Way.

I’m sleeping on my back staring at the galaxy we call home, as the last embers of the campfire die out.

It’s shoulder season in Jordan and there are about 15 people in the Wadi Rum desert camp we’re staying for our first night out of our 5 days in Jordan..

People slowly head back to their tents while I keep my eyes peeled for shooting stars. My efforts pay off as I witness 2 shooting stars in an hour.

There must have been more as no matter which direction I turn in, the sky is sparkling!

It’s the second time in my lifetime, I’ve had the fortune to see the sky lit up like this. The last time I did so, was in The Philippines about 5 years ago.

I not only watched the Milky Way in Jordan but also read a newspaper on the Dead Sea while floating, and hiked through the Rose City of Petra. Jordan is full of once in a lifetime experiences, UNESCO Heritages sites, Nabataean structures created in times BC and has one of the 7 New Wonders of the World.

People don’t prioritize Jordan as they’re skeptical about safety here however I felt quite safe, (just like I did in Israel ) no matter which part of the country I was in at any time of day.

If you’re a first time visitor, travel fast and would like to get the most out of this country in 5 days, here’s a 5 day Jordan itinerary that will take you to some of the most fabulous spots in the country, some that will be included in the Jordan Pass too.

It will also give estimates for budgeting and suggest the best places to stay , things to do in Jordan , what to eat in Jordan and trips or activities that you should not miss out on.

5 days in Jordan

A jordan itinerary for 5 days, day 1 – amman, one day in amman.

HOW TO GET TO AMMAN – Amman has two international airports, Queen Alia International Airport in Amman and King Hussein International Airport in Aqaba.

Many visitors fly to Amman as it’s more convenient and has more connectivity. I flew to Amman with Royal Jordanian and they had great service. It takes about 5 hours from London with a direct flight.

It then takes about 45 minutes to get from the airport to Amman city. I’d highly suggest renting a car from the airport itself as it may cost about 25 – 40 JD (Jordanian Dirhams) to get to the city from the airport.

Hence you will need the day you get to Amman to rest, check-in and take a quick wander around the city.

Here’s an Amman itinerary for what you can do in Amman in a day. Depending on when you get to the city, visit the attractions mentioned accordingly. You may even want to split spending a day in Amman to only spending half a day over 2 days, the days you fly in and fly out.

It is worth spending at least 24 hours in Amman as the city will give you a feel of what to expect on your Jordan itinerary.

WHERE TO STAY IN AMMAN

We stayed near the 2nd circle which was a 5-minute walk from Rainbow street. We flew to Jordan and found great options in all of the cities via lastminute. Other localities that are good to stay in, are the Downtown area.

We spent about 3 nights in Amman and stayed out till late, and not once did we feel unsafe no matter which area we spent time in.

Here’s a #tripscreatedbyus guide on what to see in Amman in a day .

While speaking with the locals I was told that they usually tend to spend their free time at The Boulevard shopping center , however for visitors, your Amman city tour should start in Jabal Amman.

Amman is divided into ‘circles’ based on location and Jabal Amman is known as the 1st circle. It is becoming popular every passing day for its bohemian atmosphere and its mix of the old and new.

There’s cafes, book-stores and shops here waiting to be explored. Rainbow street is the most famous street in Jabal Amman and the busiest.

There are numerous street food stalls and restaurants here, serving not just local Jordanian food like fresh falafel at Al-Quds but also Egyptian fare like Feteer Meshaltet . There’s plenty of ice cream shops to choose from too!

While taking a walk in Jabal Amman, I noticed a great mix of quirky street art and graffiti. While most of them seemed quite melancholy, they were done quite well and showcased a different side to the city.

There are also a few illustrations on the road connecting Rainbow street and Downtown that passes next to the restaurant Sufra , which are worth a watch.

The lane right in front of Mr. Lollies is where you’ll find street art on Rainbow street and also the hanging lanterns.

Shisha, hookah or a ‘Hubbly Bubbly’ as its called here, is a favorite past-time for the locals irrespective of the time of day. You’ll find people smoking a hubbly-bubbly as early as 10 AM, sometimes as an accompaniment with breakfast!

I found Rainbow street to have many hookah establishments for a fair price ( 4 – 5 JD ). Many places will also serve tea for free once you’re done with your shisha. While it is black tea it is not the same as Moroccan tea which is more sweeter and minty.

It is a great activity to watch locals and tourists go about their chores while you smoke on your pipe.

The Downtown area sits in the middle of the surrounding seven hills and where Hashem restaurant, as well as Habiba, are located. It is the best place in Amman to get a taste of local life and commerce in the city.

Also called Al Balad , in addition to the numerous street food options here, you will also find souvenirs as well as other things you may need daily. I saw shops selling CDs, juices, shoes, leather goods to name a few.

You’ll find souvenirs at Al-Hashemi street and carpets and fabrics at King Talal Street.

You can also make your perfume made from essential oils, also called ‘Ittar’ or ‘Attar’ at one of the shops here. You may be surprised to find some of your favorite perfume brands here at a fraction of the price, but be wary that it may be a replica!

Hashem is where the King and Queen have dined in Amman and it is for a reason!

They have a fixed menu, it is vegetarian and we ended up paying 8 JD for a plate of freshly fried falafel, hummus, beans, fresh salad, pickled vegetables, pita bread, chips and a cup of mint tea!

It will be the most affordable and satisfying meal you will have in your whole 5 days in Jordan!

If you’d like to have something sweet to finish the meal, a minute’s walk away opposite Cafe Central is Habiba sweets where you can try Knafeh , the most well-liked Jordanian dessert. It is super sweet, delicious and costs about 1 – 2 JD per piece.

RESTAURANT HASHEM

Address: King Faisal Street Amman, Jordan

Timings: Open 24 hours

HABIBA SWEETS

Address: K. Hussein St., Amman, Jordan

Timings: 8 AM – 12 AM

The King Abdullah Mosque is the biggest and the most impressive mosque in all of Amman. It can be seen from a distance due to its distinct blue dome.

It is one of the only mosques open to non-Muslims and you can enter the mosque to see it from the inside. However, if you’d like to see it just from the outside the best view would be from Al Mamoun street. Getting a parking spot is tricky hence it is best to park a little away and then walk to the mosque if you’re driving around town.

There are tours conducted here for visitors who’d like to be shown around the mosque. Please dress appropriately if you plan on visiting or hire/buy an ‘abaya’, a robe-like cover-up at the souvenir stalls outside. Shoes need to be taken off before entering.

Another mosque you can visit is the Al Husseini mosque in the Downtown area on King Talal Street. Located near the spice souk ( Souq Al-Sukar) and the souvenir souk (Souk Bukharia) it is convenient to visit if you are in the Downtown area.

KING ABDULLAH MOSQUE

Address: Near Suliman Al Nabulsi Street, Amman

Timings: Please check timings locally when in the area as timings differ

Price: 2 JD, NOT included in the Jordan Pass

AL HUSSEINI MOSQUE

Address: K. Talal St. 1, Amman, Jordan

Timings: Not open to non-Muslim visitors

Located right in the middle of Amman is the Roman theater. If you’re visiting the citadel, there are stairs that you can take to get to the theater from the citadel.

The Roman theater has an interesting history. It dates back to Roman times when Amman was called Philadelphia and performances were held here regularly. The Roman theater is still in use and concerts and cultural activities are still held here, including the Amman book fair.

The theater seats about 6000 people and is located near the Nymphaeum , the elaborate partially preserved Roman public fountain and the Jordan Folklore museum which you can also pay a visit to, if you have time to spare.

Address: Taha Al Hashemi, Amman, Jordan

Timings: 8 AM – 10 PM

Entry: Free

Located in the center of Downtown Amman, the citadel is located on one of the seven hills that made Amman. It is one of the oldest continually inhabited places in the world dating back to the Neolithic period.

The major sites at the citadel are the Temple of Hercules , a Byzantine church, the Jordan Archaeological museum and the Umayyad Palace.

The gigantic columns is the temple of Hercules which is visible from almost everywhere in the city.

The Citadel in Amman is one of the places you must visit on your one day in Amman. It is culturally significant to Amman and has the best views of the city . It will help you understand how big Amman is and you will get some of the best pictures of the Amman skyline here!

There are a lot of steps to get to the top if you’re walking so either drive to the top (parking is free) or take a taxi which will cost about 1 – 2 JD depending on where you hire it from.

Address: K. Ali Ben Al-Hussein St. 146, Amman, Jordan

Timings: 8 AM – 7 AM Saturdays to Thursdays between April and September and 8 AM – 4 PM from October and March. 10 AM – 4 pm on Fridays throughout the year

Entry: 2 JD, free with the Jordan Pass

Amman is one of the best cities in Jordan to try local Jordanian food, some sugar cane juice and a Shawarma.

Shawarma is grilled, marinated meat, shaved from a vertical skewer mixed with salad and a yogurt dip, rolled into a loaf of pita bread.

Like Cyprus, if you’d first like to try what’s on offer, you should try Mezze , which is similar to tapas or small plates of appetizers.

Jordanian mezze consists of hummus, falafel, baba ghanoush, tabbouleh, pickles, fattoush served with pita bread. It is perfect, especially for vegetarians.

For drinks, alcohol isn’t served at most places in Amman and you have to check if the restaurant states it a ‘ restaurant and bar ’ if you’re looking to get some alcohol. However, almost all places will have a wide selection of juices.

You can get some sugarcane juice or a mint-lemon which were my favorites at all places. Downtown Amman has the most stalls selling juices.

If you’re someone who likes cooking, you can even take a cooking class here to learn how to make Jordanian food.

While not famous for its Turkish baths , Amman still has a few located around the city and if you’re a spa lover, it is worth indulging in the experience.

If you’re looking for a trendy spot in the city, definitely head to The Boulevard where you’ll also find a duty-free shop for tax-free shopping.

Amman also boasts about having a great nightlife, however, I spent most of my evenings eating away and hence can’t recommend places to party!

While many tend to stop in Amman only for a few hours before heading to one of the other cities in Jordan like Petra or the Dead Sea, these things to do in Amman will help you get a glimpse into the local way of life and hence it deserves at least a day to be spent here.

If you’re looking to spend more time in Amman, the city requires at least 4 days so that you can explore the various neighborhoods better.

DAY 2 – Wadi Rum

What to see in wadi rum.

GETTING TO WADI RUM – The next stop on our 5 day Jordan itinerary was Wadi Rum. Amman to Wadi Rum is about 5 hours away from Amman and is an easy drive. You may have to start early to get a complete day or you can split your time to two half days in Wadi Rum if you plan on spending only one day in Wadi Rum.

There are no bus services directly to Wadi Rum from Amman. You will have to take the bus from Amman to Aqaba and then take another bus from Aqaba to Wadi Rum. Jett is the most frequently used bus service and the schedule can be found here .

If you’re interested in knowing how driving in Jordan is, please refer to the section ‘ Driving in Jordan ’ at the bottom of the post.

To get to any lodge in Wadi Rum, you will have to pass through the Visitor Center where you will also have to register yourself . You will also find guides if you need, at the visitor center.

Once you have registered yourself, you then need to get to Wadi Rum village where you will need to park your vehicle irrespective of whether you’re here just for the day or staying overnight.

You will find basic facilities here like a restaurant and a washroom.

If you’re staying overnight, you may need to pack just the things you will need for the night in a smaller bag as sometimes if there’s more people on your tour, there are limited space for luggage in the 4×4.

OPTION 2 – If you’d rather not drive that far, you can also get from Amman to Petra first. The drive roughly takes about 3.5 hours and you can even get a bus from Amman to Petra if you plan on using public transport.

If you’re wondering what to do in Wadi Rum , there’s quite a few things to do in Wadi Rum , however, you will need to opt for a Wadi Rum jeep tour with a guide as the terrain is only suited for a 4×4.

Here’s a Wadi Rum itinerary for a few things you can do in Wadi Rum. If you choose to go on a private tour, you can let your guide know what you’d like to see from the list below. Else please compare the things you can do in Wadi Rum to the items mentioned here to check if you will get to see them on your tour.

Things to see in Wadi Rum

Once we were on our way I realized that the landscape in Wadi Rum was unlike any I’d ever seen before.

The circumstances that helped in the formation of Wadi Rum must have been extraordinary as even today you can see mountains that look like someone put a layer of icing over them. It won’t be incorrect to compare Wadi Rum to Mars on earth. Since almost none of us have been to Mars, getting to Wadi Rum is probably the closest you’ll get to being on Mars!

LAWRENCE SPRING

Our first stop on our Wadi Rum day tour itinerary was the Lawrence Spring . Also known as Ain Abu Aineh it will probably be the first stop on your itinerary too.

While many say that it isn’t the spring that T.E. Lawrence aka Lawrence of Arabia and Faisal used to water their camels before the attack on Aqaba during the Arab revolt, if you hike up the rocky slope, the views of Khazali Canyon and Wadi Rum are impressive.

Some say Ain Shalaaleh is the original spring as mentioned in his book ‘Seven Pillars of Wisdom’, however, both the locations are beautiful and have historical value.

There’s also a massive boulder at the bottom that has Nabataean inscriptions.

LAWRENCE HOUSE

Lawrence made Wadi Rum famous as he used the location as his military base and even stayed here for a while so expect a few locations in Wadi Rum to be dedicated to the time he spent here.

The Lawrence House is a Nabataean structure he used to store weapons during the Arab revolution and is a quick stop on the itinerary.

KHAZALI SIQ (CANYON)

Khazali canyon or siq as it is called here was the most interesting spot in the whole of Wadi Rum for me as ages ago Bedouins used this canyon while passing through the desert to rest, get a drink of water and even pitch tents and stay.

The Siq cuts through Jebel Khazali and there are ancient inscriptions and petroglyphs here aka engravings of feet, Orynx, elephants, etc. at various intervals on the walls of the canyon.

The first few feet are easily accessible and you can maybe hike in the canyon however due to the inscriptions, it isn’t encouraged.

AL HASANY RED SAND DUNES

The Wadi Rum desert isn’t brimming with dunes however every few miles you will come across a few dunes of red sand. These are ideal for sand-boarding!

If you haven’t tried sandboarding before, it is a lot of fun but it can get tiring trying to get to the top of a dune as if the sand is fine, you might find yourself in the same spot even after taking a few steps!

The views from the top are great too and you can even roll down the dunes if you wish!

The Al Hasany dunes are located quite close to Ain Abu Aineh.

ANFASHIEH INSCRIPTIONS

Another spot in Wadi Rum to see some rock petroglyphs from the Thamudic and Nabataean times is the Anfishieh jebel (range of hills). You’ll find many carvings of camels here.

UM FROUTH ARCH

Another stunning location to see in Wadi Rum is the Um Frouth Arch. A natural rock bridge, it is one of the three arches in Wadi Rum. You can climb to the top of the arch and even walk over it. It is a beautiful spot to get some pictures.

BURDAH ROCK BRIDGE

The biggest of the three arches in Wadi Rum, the Burdah rock bridge is the most popular for hikers as it is challenging and provides breathtaking views once you’re at the top.

It is also sought after for rock climbing. While the hike itself is moderately difficult, the final hike up to the Jebel Burdah Rock Arch is a little dangerous as the wind makes it difficult but it is worth it.

BARRAH CANYON

Barrah Canyon is ideal for hiking, sand boarding, rock climbing and to take a camel safari through the desert. We tried sandboarding here and the sand was so fine it was possible to try it out only once as it was quite demanding.

There’s a natural platform in the canyon that makes for a good spot to watch sunsets.

Jebel Rum has the most opportunities for hiking as this compact range of hills has several pathways from the Nabataean and Thamudic times that were used by the Bedouins to collect medicinal herbs and for hunting.

A guide is required to go hiking in these parts and you can hire one at the visitor center.

SEVEN PILLARS OF WISDOM

Named after the book by Lawrence, while Lawrence never referred to the mountain in his book, the mountain called Jabbal Al Mazmar is located right opposite to the visitor center. 5 pillars are visible while 2 are tucked around the corner of the mountain.

It is one of the most photographed locations in Wadi Rum.

Many of these attractions and activities in Wadi Rum will either be covered on a day in Wadi Rum or it could be split between 2 – 4 days depending on how much time is spent hiking in these locations.

Irrespective of how it is done, chances are you will be treated to a special Bedouin lunch during your trip.

Our guide had brought all the ingredients required with him to cook a meal and while we swapped stories with each other he cooked a really tasty mince gravy served with hummus, pita bread, salad, and sesame cookies. Once we were done eating we had a steaming cup of tea given to us to finish our meal.

Once it was time for sunset our guide took us to an elevation so that we could see an uninterrupted view of the sunset while he brewed another cup of tea for us.

Only visitors who are staying over for the night in a Wadi Rum desert camp are taken to see the sunset as it can get dark quick after.

While I believed the best part of the day was the incredible sunset, I was in for more surprises after having a dinner of ‘Zarb’ – the Bedouin version of a grill . Once the lights were switched off, we could see the Milky Way galaxy clearly with our eyes and even spotted a few shooting stars.

No matter which direction our heads turned, innumerable stars shone brightly and the constellations were visible clearly, making it the highlight of our 5 days in Jordan, we liked it better than Petra!

Wadi Rum is definitely worth spending at least a night here as it will leave you spell-bound.

Address: Wadi Rum Rd, Wadi Rum Village, Jordan

Timings: 8 AM – 4 PM every day

Price: Wadi rum entry fee – 5 JD, free with the Jordan Pass

OPTIONS TO EXTEND – Spend 2 -3 days in Wadi Rum by indulging in hikes around the area and staying in Bedouin camps. you can spend up to a week here and keep busy with all the hiking areas and activities on offer

DAY 3 – Petra

A day trip to petra.

GETTING TO PETRA – After a wonderful day in Wadi Rum, the next stop on the 5 day Jordan itinerary is the Rose City of Petra. The drive takes about 3 hours via the King’s highway and the road is quite deserted but goes through the mountains so expect many turns along the way.

You can also use the Jett bus service to get to Petra (Wadi Musa) from Wadi Rum or from Amman to Wadi Musa. There’s only one service per day and takes about 4 hours from Amman.

NAVIGATING AROUND PETRA – Entry to Petra is included in the Jordan Pass and the price of the pass changes depending on whether you choose to buy a 1/2/3 day entry to Petra.

It’s always safer to choose a 2 day entry as walking around Petra can be super tiring in just one day.

You will have to get tickets at the visitor center even if you have the Jordan Pass.

While there are donkeys and horses you can pay extra to ride to the Treasury, the way the animals were treated didn’t seem humane (although there was a sign that said they were) so we did not choose to do so. There are also camels and they seemed to be the only decent option to pick if needed.

The total distance from the Petra visitor center to the Monastery on the other end is about 6 kilometers one way so if you’re not keen to walk 12 kilometers, the best option is to get a taxi to the Monastery which costs about 20 – 30 JD for the whole vehicle .

Once there, you then have to hike down and walk back to the visitor center, while visiting the attractions on the way, which is easier.

Truth be told, Petra was the reason I wanted to visit Jordan right from the time I was a child as the image of the Treasury in Petra stuck with me after I’d seen it in a few movies and once I’d laid my eyes on the Treasury through the Siq, I knew my visit was worth it!

Just like Wadi Rum, Petra is massive and while you will get a map at the visitor center which mentions all the major attractions in Petra, numerous details around Petra are quite exciting to take a look at.

ATTRACTIONS IN PETRA – The first attraction on the route will be the Djin blocks and you may miss out on them if you’re after the Treasury! You will also come across many natural craters and rock formations along the way before you get to the Siq.

Unfortunately, you cannot enter the Treasury but you can enter most other attractions.

Here’s a list of the things to do in Petra that will also be marked on the map.

The Petra Treasury (Al-Khazneh)

The Royal Tombs (Urn Tomb, Silk Tomb, Corinthian Tomb and the Palace tomb)

The Petra Theater

Street of Facades

Colonnade street (last site before you have to leave the main trail and start hiking to get to the Monastery and the following sites)

Byzantine Church

The Winged Lion

The Al-Habees museum

Archaeological museum

The Petra Monastery

There is a network of routes that you can use to hike around Petra. Most of them are marked on the map. If you’re an avid hiker you can pick any (or all) of them to see Petra from different angles and levels.

There are signs showing where some of them start on the main route. More info can be found here .

Some of these hikes are to the Place of High Sacrifice and the Petra treasury overlook .

The sun lights up the Treasury only for 30 minutes every day between 8 – 9 AM and it’s a good time to visit if you’d rather not visit early or would like to stay or circle back to the Treasury to watch this.

Try as much as possible not to touch the sites as over time due to tourists and them touching or leaning on it, the sandstone has receded by almost 40mm.

PETRA BY NIGHT

The treasury faintly lit with the light of lanterns is another sight that draws people to Petra.

While many prioritize and time their visit to coincide with Petra by Night, I honestly believe that i t was not worth it for the price I paid.

More than a 1000 lanterns light the whole way, from the visitor center to the Treasury. Once you get to the Treasury, you will be entertained with some Bedouins playing the flute for about 40 minutes followed by a short story about the history of Petra.

You’re also given tea for free. Once this is done, the show is over!

The reason I didn’t find it worth it is because if you leave (or it’s your first day and the Petra by night show is your first visit) you’re walking at least 5 kilometers in total just for a show that lasts an hour or so and you pay 17 JD/24 USD/19 GBP per person for the same which does not justify the costs.

The Treasury isn’t as brightly lit as can be seen from the pictures as those pictures are taken with the help of a tripod and long exposure.

The best time to visit is when the visitor center opens up early morning . If that is too early and if you’re there on a day that the Petra by Night show takes place, (Monday, Wednesday and Thursday) then buy the ticket for the Petra by Night show at the ticket counter. It is not included in your Jordan Pass.

Then once Petra is shut for the day you can tell the officials you have a ticket for the Night Show when asked to show it and stay inside itself to see the attractions at peace without the crowds.

If you can only spare 1 day, try to break it into 2 half days if possible so that you don’t tire yourself out in a single day trip, however a Petra 2 day tour is recommended

Wear comfortable walking shoes, carry a scarf as it can get really hot and water as well

Bargain if you have to choose to take a ride but I wouldn’t recommend it as I’ve mentioned previously they aren’t well looked after

You don’t need a guide to visit Petra but if you still think you need one, hire one for half a day from the visitor center, so you have free time to check the sights on your own. Or you can book one in advance

There are 2 restaurants inside Petra near Colonnade street and it can get quite busy so I’d suggest carrying a sandwich or a small meal with you as well

Petra is something you should tick off your bucket list and while it may seem that a day isn’t enough, if done right you will be able to see quite a few sites in a day and while it may seem hectic, it can be done as a day trip from Amman too.

Petra by Day

Address: Tourism St, Wadi Musa, Jordan

Timings: Monday – Sunday 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Entry: 50 JD – 1 day, 55 JD – 2 days, 60 JD – 3 days. Children under 12 go free. Prices differ for visitors coming from Israel. Details can be found here

Petra by night

Timings: Monday, Wednesday and Thursday every week from 8.30 PM – 10.30 PM

Entry: 17 JD. You can only purchase in advance if you have a day ticket. Else ticket sales start at 7.30 PM – 8.30 PM. There are unlimited tickets but can be purchased only on the day

DAY 4 – The Dead Sea

Visiting the dead sea in jordan.

GETTING TO THE DEAD SEA – The drive to the Dead Sea from Petra takes about an hour and is very picturesque. It also takes about an hour to get from Amman to the Dead Sea .

There are quite a few stops you can take on your way to the area where the resorts are concentrated in the Sweimeh area. While it is all right to stop where possible, some signs say it isn’t safe to bathe in the area and it may be wise to exercise caution.

It may not be possible to get to the resorts in the Dead Sea area by public transport.

OPTION 2 – If you’d traveling in the opposite direction, Petra to Wadi Rum takes about 3 hours and there are also buses that operate between the two cities, once daily.

TIPS FOR VISITING THE DEAD SEA – There aren’t any public Dead Sea beaches in Jordan however there is a spot near Cafe Break Abadi that you can use to head into the water. However, unless you stay at any of the resorts, you will not find any freshwater to wash off.

It is advisable not to spend more than 20 minutes in the Dead Sea at a given time as prolonged immersion in water concentrated with those salt levels can cause issues like dehydration and electrolyte imbalance to name a few.

However, that should not keep you away as the benefits far outweigh the negatives.

As 20 minutes is all that’s needed, taking a dip anywhere is fine but it is fun to spend a whole day here as its difficult to find mud in public locations.

Once you’ve applied mud all over your body and let it dry, you can wash it off to complete the ritual!

There are a few things you need to keep in mind before you enter the Dead Sea. Here’s info about precautions to take before visiting the Dead Sea .

When at a resort, chances are they will have a spa and you can ask for a discount voucher at the reception for it. Most resorts provide one.

The spa, visits to the Dead Sea and relaxing by the Dead Sea should keep you busy for a whole day and give you ample time to relax after a busy few days.

Floating in the Dead Sea is unlike anything you’ll ever experience in your lifetime. I did try to read a book and even got through a few sentences! As long as you float on your back and do not let the water enter your eyes, it is fabulous. The mud works wonders on your skin too.

Many Dead Sea resorts provide live music and entertainment in the evening and have a couple of restaurants within the resort.

If you’re planning to visit a different restaurant in another of the resorts you will be asked for an exorbitant amount as a cover charge for entry and payment for food. So its best to stick to the resort you’re staying in. We stayed at the Dead Sea Spa resort which was budget friendly and had all the amenities required.

DAY 5 – Jerash, Amman

Getting from amman to jerash for a half day trip.

GETTING FROM AMMAN TO JERASH – Jerash is about 45 minutes away from Amman and is a quick drive if you’ve rented a car. The car park is the same location where the other tourist buses are parked and not at the visitor center.

You can also get a bus from Amman to Jerash from the Tabarbour Bus Station (North Bus Station) in Amman which costs about 1 JD for a one way trip. Its a quick walk from the bus stop to the Jerash ruins .

If you plan on using a taxi, keep in mind that it may be quite expensive depending on who you ask. The meters in some taxis are meddled with so they will not state the right fare. Negotiate in advance and depending on your skills expect to pay about 40 – 50 JD for a return trip where taxi drivers will wait for about 2-3 hours till you complete sightseeing.

You can also opt for a private day tour and ask for the same at your hotel or book in advance here

While Jerash can’t be compared to Petra, it is still an astonishing archaeological site and deserves a visit. If you’re not keen on spending time in Amman but have a couple of hours to spend here, I’d highly suggest visiting Jerash.

Jerash known in Greco-Roman times as Gerasa, and Ajloun castle which is also located on the way, together, make for a perfect day trip from Amman. The locations are well preserved and the scale and magnificence is extraordinary. It was one of my favorite things to do on my 5 day Jordan itinerary.

Here’s a list of all the things to do in Jerash in brief:

Hadrian’s Arch

The Hippodrome

The Oval Plaza

The temple of Zeus

The North Theater

The South Theater

The Nymphaeum

Colonnaded Street

The temple of Artemis

Even with the amount of tourists visiting the location is massive and you can expect to have sites within Jerash all to yourself in the evenings! Try to time your visit if possible during closing hours so you can see the sunset from one of the Theaters. It’ll be worth it as you’ll probably have the place all to yourself!

Dedicate at least 3 hours to see all the sites in Jerash.

Address: Jerash visitor center, Jerash, Jordan

Timings: Winter 8 AM – 4 PM, Summer 8 AM – 6.30 PM, April and May 8 AM – 5.30 PM, Month of Ramadan 8 AM – 3.30 PM

Entry: 12 JD including the archaeological museum, free with the Jordan Pass

Jordan will amaze in you in more ways than one and will undoubtedly leave you spell-bound! It is definitely the trip of a lifetime as the experiences here are one of a kind.

While the Jordanian Dinar is strong, if you visit during shoulder season (more details below) and sort your flights first this will help keep the costs low.

Push Jordan to the top of your travel plans, it’ll give you memories to last a lifetime.

Officially called the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, Jordan is a middle-eastern country located on the east bank of the River Jordan. The Dead Sea is located on its western border and it also has a short coastline on the Rea Sea in the south near Aqaba.

Shoulder season from September – November and February – April is the best and the most budget friendly duration to visit Jordan.

No matter when you visit, the country has pleasant weather however it can get colder during winter in the desert.

Peak season is during summer from May – August, temperatures can go beyond 35 degrees and it gets really hot. It is also expensive to visit during this time.

HIRING A CAR

The most convenient way of getting around Jordan is by hiring a rental car. The best way to do this is by getting one at the airport itself as you then don’t need to spend on getting to Amman, as the airport is about 30 minutes away from the city.

You can always rent even for a single day as needed and drop it off in a different city as well.

Taxi’s are easily available in Jordan however be aware that meters are tampered with and they do not display the right fare. Always ask for the price, before you get in the taxi and bargain too. Here’s a table with estimated fares

PUBLIC TRANSPORT

It is difficult to get public transport easily in Jordan and Google Maps do not specify the routes nor the timings. However, as mentioned above, Jett operates buses on a daily basis and info can be found here

Anywhere close to Downtown or the 1st or 2nd circle is a good location to stay in Amman. For Petra (Wadi Musa), try to stay close to the visitor center as your feet will thank you once you’re done visiting Petra.

For Wadi Rum, all Bedouin camps have decent accommodation and bathrooms are usually shared but clean. If you need an en-suite bathroom, you will have to opt to stay in a luxury camp.

All resorts near the Dead Sea are located in the Sweimeh area and there are only a handful that are budget-friendly. Most of them are luxurious but provide good amenities.

If you prefer to stay in a Airbnb, prices for a private place can be from about £20- £30. If you’re new to Airbnb, sign up using this link to get £30 off your first booking.

Award-winning Analyst, multi-nominated digital content creator and photographer Lavina Dsouza's words capture stories about culture and tradition mainly through its food and people. She has written and contributed to publications such as The Washington Post, Lonely Planet and Matador Network, to name a few. She is the editor of UntraditionalHumans.com, a non-profit created to share inspiring stories from women of colour who break free from traditions and choose happiness.

She's also a speaker passionate about DEI and champions solo travel. She has collaborated with numerous renowned brands such as Intrepid Travel, TripAdvisor, Travel and Leisure and Adobe, to name a few.

She can be found on Twitter and Instagram.

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One Week in Jordan: The Perfect Itinerary for First-Timers

Jordan is a true dream destination and one of the most diverse places I’ve ever visited. You can see lush green mountains, visit archeological sites, float in the sea and explore the desert, all within the same country! Are you excited yet? Here’s the perfect itinerary for spending one week in Jordan!

If this will be your first time in Jordan I recommend reading my Ultimate Jordan Travel Guide first. In this post, you can find all the basic information you need to know before visiting Jordan!

* Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link. *

Table of Contents

How to Spend One Week in Jordan

Jordan is not a huge country, so spending one week in Jordan is the perfect amount of time to discover all the main sites. If you are short on time you can squeeze everything into 4 days by skipping Aqaba and shortening some of the programs. However, if you don’t want to rush through the whole country, I would strongly recommend having one full week!

We arrived in Amman directly from Budapest and since we had our return flight from Amman as well, we did a circle road trip through Jordan on the following route: Amman – Petra – Aqaba – Wadi Rum – the Dead Sea – Jerash – Amman.

There is an airport in Aqaba as well so if you can catch a return flight from there you can visit all these sites in a one-way road trip from Amman to Aqaba. Alternatively, if you’re planning to arrive from Israel and leave Amman, you can also do it on a one-way trip.

Day 1: Driving from Amman to Petra

How to get to petra from amman.

If you arrive by plane you will land in the Queen Alia National Airport, located 25 km outside of Amman. Pick up your luggage and let’s head down straight to Petra!

We decided to rent a car at the airport but you can hop on a bus or hire a private driver as well. If you also plan to rent a car, you have two options regarding the direction.

Either you can take the Desert Highway (Route 15) which is the quickest road or you can take the more scenic, but definitely longer King’s Highway (Route 35).

The Desert Highway (as the name suggests) cuts through the desert without any interesting stops and it takes around 3 hours to get to Petra. If you are not in a rush and you are obsessed with dramatic landscapes, I’d suggest taking the famous King’s Highway.

This is slightly longer in distance but because of the winding roads and steep climbs, the tour takes much longer in time (approximately 5 hours without stops). There are numerous stops along the road so it can easily take up a full day if you want to stop at every interesting site.

If you’ve decided to take the King’s Highway, I would recommend stopping at at least two places. The first one is the Mujib Dam viewpoint where you can have a full panoramic view over the winding roads and the mountains.

The second one is Kerak Castle where you can also have an amazing view. Plus, if you have a Jordan Pass , it’s free to visit!

Where to stay in Petra

Wadi Musa is the closest town to the ancient city of Petra so I would recommend staying here for 2 nights. Since it takes a long time to get to Petra from Amman, chances are you will arrive late afternoon or early evening.

You will not be able to visit Petra on that day, therefore you will need to stay at Wadi Musa for at least one night. Visiting Petra will take up a full day so it’s better to stay for another night in Wadi Musa, get a good night’s sleep and start again fresh in the morning.

Although the town is pretty big with many options to choose from, it’s worth staying in a hotel which is close to the entrance of Petra. You can check all the accommodations in Wadi Musa here, or if you don’t want to spend time searching, check out my recommendations below!

• Luxury: Mövenpick Resort Petra
• Mid-Range: Infinity Lodge
• Budget: La Maison Hotel

Day 2: Exploring the Ancient City of Petra

What to expect in petra.

The rose-colored city of Petra is one of the New Seven Wonders of the Modern World. No Jordan itinerary is complete without visiting this magical place!

The most famous spot is the Treasury, which you most likely know from the Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade movie. But there are many more interesting sites in Petra, so be prepared for a full day of exploring!

In order to visit Petra, you have to purchase either an entrance ticket to Petra or a Jordan Pass . If you want to spend only one day in Petra the ticket costs 50 JD ($70 US) per person.

However, you are better off with a Jordan Pass, since it’s only 70 JD ($100 US) for one person and it already includes a one-day ticket to Petra and the mandatory visa for Jordan, which would cost 40 JD ($56 US) separately.

After passing through the Visitors Center, you will soon enter Petra through the Siq – a dim, narrow gorge created by natural rock formations. The gorge is approximately 2 km long and at the end of the trail it suddenly opens up and you will be rewarded with the most magnificent view: the Treasury!

Many people just want to visit the Treasury but I encourage you to explore more of Petra! It takes another 2.5 km to the end of the main trail and you will see many Nabatean ruins along the way. The path to the Monastery begins when the main trail ends. You have to climb up 800 stairs to reach the Monastery but it’s totally worth it!

Viewpoint of the Treasury from above

Apart from the main road, there are two amazing viewpoints where you can climb up if you want to see the Treasury from above. And believe me, you don’t want to miss out on that! The first viewpoint is only accessible with a local guide. Many bedouins will offer to take you up there, for money of course.

But there is another way! It’s a bit longer to get up there but it’s free and the view is incredible during the climb. We choose the second way and we didn’t regret it.

If you want to do the same, check out my detailed post about the best viewpoint in Petra where I shared the step-by-step directions on how to reach this amazing place. If you want to find some other great photography spots, read my guide about the most Instagrammable places in Jordan !

Petra by Night

If you visit Petra on a Monday, Wednesday, or Thursday, you can attend the Petra by Night event. The whole path through the Siq and the area in front of the Treasury is lit up by 1,500 candles, it’s really magical!

The show itself is not so special but the view is really one of a kind. Unfortunately, this event is not included in the standard ticket so if you would like to attend, you need to purchase another ticket for 17 JD ($24 US) per person.

Day 3: Snorkeling or Scuba Diving in Aqaba

How to get to aqaba from petra.

Yesterday was a really intense day, so you totally deserve a beach day today! Aqaba is the only coastal city in Jordan and if you have one week in Jordan I totally recommend putting it on your itinerary.

It’s an easy 2 hours drive from Petra on the highway. I suggest having an early breakfast and hitting the road again, so this way you can have almost a full day in Aqaba!

What to expect in Aqaba

To be honest, there is not so much sightseeing to do, but there are a lot of beach resorts where you can relax and take a dip or  dive in the Red Sea . And if there is one thing Aqaba is really famous for, it’s underwater life! The water is always warm and crystal clear which makes it the perfect place for snorkeling or scuba diving.

I’ve never tried any of that before but both of them were on my bucket list forever. And since snorkeling is one of the best things to do in Aqaba , it seemed like a perfect place to try it!

I decided to book a tour with Deep Blue Dive Center  which was absolutely wonderful. We opted for only snorkeling but they are organizing diving tours as well.

The tour included a 4-hour long boat trip with 3 different snorkeling spots, a delicious lunch, and soft drinks. We’ve seen many beautiful coral reefs with cute fishes, and there were even an airplane wreck and a tank down in the water! And while you are out on the sea you can see 4 countries at once: Egypt, Israel, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia. How cool is that?

Where to stay in Aqaba

Aqaba offers a wide selection of hotels and it’s generally much cheaper than Petra or Amman. You can check all the accommodations in Aqaba here , or if you don’t want to spend time searching, check out my recommendations below!

• Luxury: Mövenpick Resort & Residences Aqaba
• Mid-Range: Marina Plaza Tala Bay
• Budget: Hotel Prestige

Day 4: Jeep Tour and Overnight Stay in the Wadi Rum

How to get to the wadi rum from aqaba.

The Wadi Rum (also known as the Valley of the Moon) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the southern part of Jordan. This is a huge desert area with the most amazing landscapes you’ll ever see!

It was used as a filming location for many famous movies, like The Martian or the Lawrence of Arabia. Definitely a must-visit place in Jordan!

First, you need to arrive at the Wadi Rum Village, which is a one-hour drive from Aqaba. You can choose to hire a 4×4 and explore the area on your own, however, I strongly suggest booking a tour with a local guide!

We choose the Wadi Rum Nomads company as according to Tripadvisor they are one of the best. And they really lived up to the expectations!

What to expect at the Wadi Rum

As I mentioned before, I recommend choosing a tour with a local drive instead of driving around the Wadi Rum by yourself. The desert is huge and there is no mobile network in the area so wandering around on your own is not the best idea. Plus a local guide knows all the best places so you don’t need to plan anything!

You can choose from many tour types, there are multiple-day tours and only half-day tours as well. If you’re planning to spend one week in Jordan I recommend planning one full day and one night for experiencing a Wadi Rum. We did the same and we absolutely loved it!

The full-day tours usually begin at 9 am in wintertime or 10 am in the summertime. During the daytime, you will visit many famous sites like the Lawrence spring, the Khazali canyon, and the Burdah rock bridge.

There is a lot of time at each location to explore the area, take a million photographs and enjoy the view. Trust me, you will never forget all the beauty you’re going to see this day! Riding in a back of a jeep through these incredible sites is really a unique experience.

The last stop is in Um Sabatah where you can see the sunset behind the amazing rock formations. You can choose to spend the night in their Base Camp which I highly recommend!

After the sunset, they will drive you to the campsite where you can enjoy a traditional Bedouin dinner and learn about their culture.

The next day they will take you back to the Wadi Rum Village after a delicious breakfast and you can continue your journey towards your next destination.

Where to stay in the Wadi Rum

If your chosen tour company offers an overnight stay I think it’s best to stay with them. However not every company has their own camp and since they are usually really basic camps I totally understand if you don’t want to stay there.

Luckily there are many options to choose from, you can even go glamping in the Wadi Rum in luxurious bubble hotels and glamping tents!

You can check all the accommodations in the Wadi Rum here or if you’re not in the mood for searching, check out my recommendations below!

• Luxury: Wadi Rum Bubble Luxotel
• Mid-Range: Wadi Rum Bedouin Camp
• Budget: Bedouin Nights Camp

Day 5: Floating in the Dead Sea

How to get to the dead sea from wadi rum.

I bet you’ve seen a ton of pictures of people reading a newspaper while floating in the Dead Sea. This is a true bucket list experience! The Dead Sea is the lowest point on Earth and it is the deepest hypersaline lake in the world. It’s almost 10 times saltier than the ocean, therefore you will rather float than swim in the water.

It’s quite a long road from the Wadi Rum, it takes around 4.5 hours to reach the northern side of the Dead Sea where all the hotels are located.

The first part goes on the highway but after that, you need to drive through the mountains until you reach the southern part of the Dead Sea. There is not much traffic on these roads so it’s quite a relaxing driving experience.

What to expect at the Dead Sea

Although the hotels are located on the northern side and that’s the safest part of the Dead Sea for getting into the water, it’s not the most beautiful one.

If you want to find the gorgeous white salt formations along the sea, you need to stop around the Wadi Al Mujib.

If you are coming from the Wadi Rum Village you will reach the southern side of the Dead Sea first. Drive up in the direction of the Mujib Chalets , park the car at the Coral reefs (2 km south from the Mujib Chalets), and have a walk on the shore!

You will find many amazing salt formations along the way and the sparkling blue water is crystal clear. It kinda makes you feel that you are walking on a Caribbean island, except the white beach is made of salt, not sand.

You can get into the water here as well (if there are no signs saying otherwise) but since you will not be able to have a shower after, I don’t recommend it.

It’s important to rinse off your body with regular water as soon as you get out, otherwise, the salt will dry on your skin and you will not be able to stop scratching yourself.

There are a few other things like this that you need to know before you get into the water, check out my 10 tips for visiting the Dead Sea for more information!

Therefore I recommend stopping here only for the view and to take some photos, then continue your journey to the northern side. I think it’s best to stay at one of the hotels for one night so you can safely try floating in the Dead Sea and relax a little bit.

Where to stay at the Dead Sea

As I mentioned before, I totally recommend staying at least one night at the Dead Sea.

This way you can have immediate access to fresh water and towels after you’re done with your floating in the Dead Sea. Not to mention that getting into the water at the beach of a hotel is the safest option!

Unfortunately, you will not find any budget options around the Dead Sea so you need to extend your budget a little bit.

You can check out all the accommodations at the Dead Sea here or if you don’t want to spend your time searching, check out my recommendations below!

• Luxury: Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa
• Mid-Range: Dead Sea Spa Hotel

Day 6: Visiting Jerash and Arriving in Amman

How to get to jerash from the dead sea.

The ancient city of Jerash is the largest and most interesting Roman site in Jordan. The area is huge, and it is packed with many temples, amphitheaters, columns, and ruined buildings. Depending on how much you are into archeology, you can spend there a few hours or an entire day.

It takes around 1.5 hours to reach Jerash from the northern part of the Dead Sea. If you’re really interested in ruins and archeology I recommend having an early breakfast and hitting the road right away. Although if it’s enough for you to spend only a few hours in Jerash, you don’t need to rush and you can take things easier.

What to expect at Jerash

Jerash is not a public site, hence you have to buy a ticket to get in and there is an opening time. Actually, I didn’t know that and we arrived just around closing time so we didn’t have time to explore the area.

I was really upset about this, so make sure you check the opening hours before visiting! If you already bought the Jordan Pass , you can enter for free, otherwise, you need to pay 10 JD ($14 US) per person.

How to get to Amman from Jerash

After you finished the sightseeing in Jerash, it’s time to head down to Amman. It takes around 45-60 minutes to get to Amman, depending on the traffic and in which part of the city you’re going to stay.

Where to stay in Amman

Depending on when your flight leaves, I would recommend staying in Amman for 1 or 2 nights. I think you will need to have at least one full day to explore Amman so if your flight only leaves late in the night the next day, staying 1 night can be enough.

Otherwise, I would suggest booking 2 nights in one of the hotels. You can check all the accommodations in Amman here , or you can just check out my recommendations below.

• Luxury: Amman Rotana
• Mid-Range: Amman International Hotel
• Budget: The Cabin

Day 7: Exploring Amman

What to expect in amman.

Amman is the capital city of Jordan. It’s a very modern city with many ancient ruins so it’s definitely an interesting place to visit. Unfortunately, it is often overlooked by tourists but it’s worth spending at least a day there!

The most popular place is the historical site of the Citadel, located on top of a pretty steep hill. The major buildings at the site are the Temple of Hercules, the Byzantine church, and the Umayyad Palace.

Rainbow street is another must-visit place in Amman. The street is packed with shops, restaurants, and cafes, so it’s the perfect place to grab a bite and relax a bit.

Planning a trip to Jordan?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about Jordan. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

• The Ultimate Jordan Travel Guide for First Time Visitors
• The Perfect Itinerary for Spending One Week in Jordan
• Top 8 Most Instagrammable Places in Jordan
• How to Find the Best Viewpoint in Petra – Treasury From Above
• 10 Tips for Visiting the Dead Sea
• Hotel Review: Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa

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26 thoughts on “One Week in Jordan: The Perfect Itinerary for First-Timers”

Such a great guide! I´ve found lots of useful information! Jordan is on my bucket list – I´m mostly excited to visit Petra, to stay overnight in Wadi Rum, and to float in the Dead Sea… Was driving there fine?! I assume in Amman it might be stressful!

I’m so happy you found it useful! Jordan is a really amazing country, I hope you will have a wonderful time as well! Yeah you are right – driving in Amman is a nightmare.. Although if you can manage to avoid it, you are good to go! Driving through Jordan is not so stressful, basically there is not much traffic on the roads. But Amman is completely different.. We met with two other Hungarian girls on the road and they rented a car as well, but they returned it before going to Amman and used the public transportation there instead. I think it’s a really good choice if you are not a season driver!

This looks perfect! I have been wanting to go to Jordan for many years now, but then it became so popular suddenly, I lost ineterst ahha now I´m sorry I didn´t go. Oh well, fingers crossed for beter times soon. Loved your article, lovely pictures as always 🙂

Thank you so much Katja! Yeah Jordan definitely got popular over the years but it still didn’t feel so touristy 🙂

This looks absolutely magical! I went to Jordan but only to the Dead Sea. I am dying to go back and see more of that beautiful country!

I can only recommend! I loved Jordan so much, one of my favourite destinations ever 🙂

Oh wow your photos are absolutely stunning! Jordan has been on my wishlist for such a long time and this makes me even more eager to go. Saving this article! Thanks for all the tips 🙂

You are so welcome! Hope you will be able to visit Jordan once we can travel again!

Jordan seems amazing. The Dead Sea is on my bucket list.

It’s really an amazing country, I can only recommend visiting!

Jordan really is beautiful 🙂 And I’d love to go scuba diving in Aqaba! Btw, Petra doesn’t look too crowded from your pics – were you just lucky or it was off season when you were there? 🙂

The underwater life in the Red Sea is just wonderful! We only went to snorkeling but I enjoyed that day so much! We woke up very early and went to Petra for opening time so we could make some great pictures without the crowds. Oh, and I mastered my people removing skills in Photoshop, haha 🙂

Wow! The country just looks so diverse! I wish I was balls-y enough to hire a car like you. Foreign roads, and driving in general freaks me out haha.

I totally understand you, I don’t really drive either. Luckily my boyfriend does and he even likes it but I don’t know what I would have done without him haha 🙂

I have been to Jordan for a work convention and I was amazed by the places I have seen, especially Petra! Unfortunately I didn’t had time to visit the rest of the country. But your article makes me wanna go again for sure!

I can absolutely recommend traveling to Jordan, it’s one of my favourite travel destinations to this day!

This is so beautiful Kriszti! I have always wanted to visit Jordan so I totally loved reading this. Your pictures are really incredible and how cool does Petra look at night?

That’s such a great itenerary ,Jorden is in my bucket list .hope to visit someday

Thank you! Hope you will be able to visit soon! 🙂

Thank you so much Charu! Petra is really beautiful and when they lit up the whole place with candles during the night it’s just so magical!

Jordan is so high on my bucket list, and your guide is simple amazing and full of great information. I am saving it for when I finally get to travel to Jordan. Your pictures are phenomenal.

Aww thank you so much! I really enjoyed my Jordan trip and I hope you will be able to visit as well! 🙂

I would absolutely love to visit Jordan – what a stunning country. ? Your pictures are beautiful

Thank you Dani! I can only recommend visiting Jordan, loved it so much! 🙂

I was supposed to be in Jordan this week :/ I’ll definitely pin this for later!

Oh gosh I’m so sorry to hear that! I hope you will be able to visit once we can travel again!

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The Ultimate Jordan Itinerary with map (2023)

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A Jordan road trip is full to the brim of amazing historic sights, beautiful scenery and delicious food making it the perfect spot to take a road trip. From floating in the salty Dead Sea to marvelling at the iconic Petra, Jordan is definitely one of our most memorable trips! We loved our time spent exploring Jordan and, to help with your Jordan planning, we’ve put together our ultimate Jordan itinerary to help you plan your trip. From its unmissable historic sights to the best places to stay, this itinerary will help you make the most of your journey through Jordan!

Table of Contents

Planning a Jordan Road Trip

Arriving in jordan.

Amman is the main point of entry to Jordan whether it be on an international flight or by an overland crossing from Israel via the Allenby/King Hussein Bridge Crossing (you can read about  how to cross via the Allenby/King Hussein Bridge here ). From Eliat in Israel, the Yitzhak Rabin/Arava border is another popular entry point as it offers the opportunity to get a free Jordan visa for visitors from a number of countries.

Make sure to check the visa requirements prior to arrival. Some middle eastern countries are visa exempt while much of the Americas, Europe and Asia Pacific are subject to a visa on arrival. Most of Africa and a select number of other countries are required to obtain a pre approved visa.

Jordan itinerary tip:  visas on arrival are not granted at the Allenby/King Hussein Bridge Crossing so make sure you secure a visa prior to the crossing. We didn’t realise and had to make a last minute jaunt to the Jordanian Consulate in the Palestinian City of Ramallah in the West Bank. We really enjoyed seeing Ramallah (check out the details of getting a visa in Ramallah here ) but you might want to organise your visa in advance!

Where to Stay in Jordan

There is a good selection of hotels in Jordan and we opted for three bases during our stay: Amman, Dead Sea and Petra. Agaba is a great fourth base if you want a resort type stopover or want to enjoy some scuba diving. We used booking.com for our Jordan accommodation as it has an amazing range of options and offers the best prices we could find in Jordan– you can hotel prices on  booking.com here .

What to Wear in Jordan

Clothing is more relaxed in the more touristy resort and beach areas but it is considered respectful to cover up when out and about. 3/4 length pants and long-sleeved tops covering cleavage worked well for us.

Jordan Itinerary Route

Most Jordan road trips start and end in Amman and we used the city as an entry and exit point. If you are entering from Eliat, you can start your trip in Aqaba and still hit all the main stops from there so feel free to adjust the itinerary accordingly.

The route: (A)   Amman – (B) Day trips to Jerash and (C) Umm Qais – (D) Petra – (E) Wadi Rum –  Kings Highway – (F) Dead Sea – Aqaba – (A) Amman

Click here for the Google Map

How to Use This Google Map: Click on the grey star at the top of the map and this map will be added to your Google Maps account. You can then view it on your phone or computer in Google Maps by clicking on the menu button, going to “Your Places” and selecting this map. We use these maps all the time as you can set out your itinerary ahead of time and quickly reference the saved maps.

Getting around Jordan

A car is the best option for exploring Jordan, however it is also possible to see the main sights in the country from Amman via day and multi-day tours.

Renting a Car in Jordan

Renting a car in Jordan is the best way to explore the country plus driving is relatively easy in the country. The roads are very good quality and fuel is cheap. Having your own car gives you the flexibility to travel at your own pace a see places that are simply not possible on group tours or public transport – check out our tips for renting a car in Jordan for more information.

We’re huge fans of road trips and have driven rental cars in almost 50 countries so we have a lot of experience renting cars in foreign countries. Book your car now with RentalCars.com , where you will find the best rental car prices – click here to book now

Click here for the best rental car prices

Tours from Amman

It is also possible to visit many of the sites in Jordan from Amman via organised tours

Petra and Wadi Rum: This small group two-day tour departs Amman and includes Petra, the Dead Sea and Wadi Rum – check prices now!

Jerash and Umm Qais – This popular day trip tour from Amman and includes Jerash, Umm Qais and Ajloun Castle – check prices now!

Check out all the tours from Amman

Jordan Itinerary

1 | amman .

Jordan’s capital city is a heady mix of modern and ancient and is the perfect balance of chaotic and charming. Often used as a stopover en route to the rest of the country, it’s worth spending a few days exploring if you have some time. Amman is also a great base for taking a day trip north to the incredible ruins of Jerash and Umm Qais.

How long to stay in Amman

We recommend 3 nights in Amman, which will allow a day trip to Jerash and Umm Qais and time to explore the city.

Jordan itinerary tip:  Amman traffic is notorious so be prepared for traffic jams. As we arrived by taxi from the border we arranged our car rental to be delivered to our Amman hotel. This is a great option if you want to avoid the crazy city traffic.

Where to Stay in Amman

• Marriott Amman –  we opted for the Marriott Hotel in Amman. The hotel was modern, rooms well appointed and the swimming pool a welcome relief from the city heat –    Check prices now!
• Amman Pasha hotel  – an excellent budget option located across from the Roman Amphitheater with a lively cafe next door –  Check prices now!

Click here for the best Amman Hotel Prices

What to see in Amman

• The Citadel and its beautiful views of the city
• Souk Jara market for some local shopping
• The Roman Amphitheatre
• Rainbow Street and its plentiful souvenir shops

2 | Day trip from Amman to Jerash and Umm Qais

Amman is a great base for a day trip to both the incredible Roman ruins of Jerash (45 minutes north of Amman) and the hilltop settlement of Umm Qais (2 hours north of Jerash). The 12th Century Ajloun Castle, a hilltop castle, is an interesting stop between the two sites.

Jordan itinerary tip:  if you are combining Jerash and Umm Qais in a single day trip make sure you leave your hotel early in the morning as this will involve 6 hours of driving in total there and back. The roads north are good roads making it doable in a single day. An alternative, if you prefer shorter sightseeing days or wish to spend longer exploring the expansive Jerash, is to split the sites over two separate days. If you prefer to sit back and relax and take a tour, check out some options here .

The Roman ruins of Jerash are among the best preserved Roman ruins in the world. Highlights of Jerash include the hippodrome which once hosted chariot races watched by up to 15,000 spectators, cardo maximus, once the main thoroughfare through the city, and Hadrian’s Arch, built to commemorate a visit by Emperor Adrian. The site is so well preserved it’s easy to imagine the grandeur of this city that once was and the history of the site really comes alive.

A tour is a great option for visiting Jerash from Amman. There are a number of great day trips from Amman to Jerash, like this one – check prices now!

Book your tour to Jerash now

Jordan itinerary tip:  remember to bring sunscreen and water. The sites, especially Jerash, are vast and exposed to the blazing Jordanian sunshine .

On the border of Jordan, Israel, Palestine and Syria,   the ancient city of Umm Qais has sweeping views over the Sea of Galilee and Golan Heights. Originally known as the Decapolis city of Gadara, the present day Umm Quais represents the ruins of a Roman town built on an old Ottoman village. The ruins, while much less well preserved than Jerash, include a theatre, the main street and buildings once occupied by shops, temples and houses. Umm Qais is also touted as the site of a miracle where, according to the Bible, Jesus cast demons from men to pigs.

Jordan itinerary tip: Driving north to Umm Qais you will approach the border of Syria and Jordan and this means frequent checkpoints along the road. We were stopped at multiple checkpoints, where the police were very friendly and simply checked the car, our documents and my driving licence.

Jordan itinerary tip:  We enjoyed a delicious fattoush lunch (our favourite Jordanian salad) in the Resthouse Restaurant located within the ruins and both the food and the views of the surrounding countryside were incredible.

3 | Petra 

The quickest route from Amman to Petra is via Route 15 and the journey takes around 3 hours. Umm Ar-Rasas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its spectacular, perfectly preserved mosaic (the largest in Jordan) is an unmissable stop along the way.

The site hosts extensive Roman, Byzantine, and early Muslim ruins as well as the mosaic floor in the Church of Saint Stephen. The mosaic depicts the major cities of ancient Jordan as well as the hunting and fishing techniques of ancient times.

How long to stay in Petra?

This is a really common question we get as planning time at Petra can be tricky. Plan to spend at least two nights, ideally three, at Petra. Petra is a huge place with lots to see within the ancient site itself and outside. Exploring the site itself will take at least two visits ( early morning and evening) and we highly recommend going to Petra by night in addition to this. We stayed in the Marriot Petra which overlooks and visited the site 5 times over two days, two mornings, two evenings and Petra by night.

Jordan Itinerary tip: try to avoid being in Petra during the hottest part of the day. Hiking around during these temperatures is really hard so it’s best to chill back at your hotel for a few hours and visit during the cooler evening hours.

Where to stay in Petra

• Marriott Petra – We stayed at this fantastic hotel located just a few minutes drive from Petra and loved the panoramic views across the Petra Mountains. Our highlight of the stay was a traditional Jordanian meal served in a Bedouin tent overlooking the Petra Mountains – our meal was served over an incredible sunset accompanied by traditional Bedouin music – Check hotel prices here!
• Mövenpick Resort Petra – Located right at the entrance to Petra, the Movenpick Resort is an excellent choice for those without their own transport and boasts good rooms and an impressive breakfast spread – Check hotel prices here!
• Candles Hotel – a great budget friendly option just a few hundred metres from the entrance to Petra – Check hotel prices here!

Click here for the best Petra Hotel Prices

What to see in Petra

In addition to exploring Petra during the day we highly recommend Petra by night , a candlelit visit to the Treasury of Petra, was one of our favourite events and only runs on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. We visited Petra on four occasions: two sunrise hikes, a daytime visit and our evening at Petra by night. Little Petra , a much smaller and quieter version of the main Petra site, is also worth a visit.

• Check out our Petra by Night experience here

Jordan Itinerary tip: A visit to Petra is as stunning as it is exhausting. Vigorous hikes in unrelenting heat require lots of water and sunscreen and be sure you bring your hiking boots as the terrain can be rough at times.

4 | Wadi Rum 

Having experienced one of the New 7 Wonders of the World at Petra it’s time to experience the aptly named Valley of the Moon, otherwise known as the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Wadi Rum. Spending the night in a Wadi Rum desert camp is truly a once in lifetime experience and exploring the desert in a 4×4 during the daylight hours brings the magnificent landscape to life.

How Long to Stay in Wadi Rum

One night is enough time to explore the desert and experience Wadi Rum

Where to stay at Wadi Rum 

• Wadi Rum Luxury Night Camp:  if you want to experience the harsh desert conditions of Wadi Rum while still enjoying the luxury of beautiful tents and comfortable beds then this is the camp for you! For an extra special Wadi Rum experience book the Full of Stars tent and watch the stars sparkle from your bed – Check latest prices here
• Salman Zwaidh Camp:  for a more traditional camping experience this   authentic Bedouin camp lies within the protected area of Wadi Rum and is excellent value for money – Check latest prices here

Click here for the best Wadi Rum Hotel Prices

What to see Wadi Rum

• Lawrence’s Spring and the ruins of Lawrence’s House
• The Rock bridges/arches
• Khazali and Burrah Canyon
• Ancient rock drawings

5 | Aqaba

Jordan’s only coastal city, Aqaba is the perfect access point to the diving and snorkelling of the Red Sea. We skipped Aqaba as we weren’t planning on indulging in any diving or snorkelling but it’s one to add to your itinerary if you’re a fan!

How Long to Stay in Aqaba

We recommend 2 nights in Aqaba, giving enough time to explore the area and rest before the trip to the Dead Sea

Where to stay in Aqaba

• Kempinski Hotel Aqaba Red Sea: luxury 5 star hotel on the Red Sea with a private beach and a maze of pools – Check latest prices here!
• Costa Marina Hotel and Suites:  budget friendly and the perfect clean and modern base for an Aqaba diving trip – Check latest prices here!

Click here for the best Aqaba Hotel Prices

6 | The King’s High Way

The 280km King’s Highway is one of the Middle East’s most scenic drives and the winding road takes visitors through the ancient trade route which once connected vast amounts of the Middle East. It’s known as the longer and more scenic route between Amman and Petra. There is lots to see on the King’s Highway and we recommend splitting the journey and spending the night at the Dana Biosphere Reserve to indulge in some hikes in the incredibly beautiful surroundings.

Jordan itinerary tip:  we choose to incorporate the King’s Highway into our drive north to the Dead Sea. If you prefer, you can drive the King’s Highway en route from Amman to Petra.

Where to stay on the King’s Highway

• Dana Guesthouse:  an excellent option with cosy and clean rooms and excellent views, the guesthouse is located within the Dana Reserve – Check latest prices here!
• Dana Moon Hotel:  another great choice within the Dana Reserve, the hotel is well maintained, clean and reasonably priced – Check latest prices here!

Click here for the best Dana Hotel Prices

What to see on the King’s Highway

Day 1:  Aqaba to the Dana Biosphere Reserve

• Shobak Castle: a 12th Century Crusader Castle perched on the side of a rocky mountain in barren surroundings
• Dana Biosphere Reserve:  Jordan’s largest nature reserve sits along the face of the Great Rift Valley and boasts spectacular landscapes and hikes. Check out Dana Village, a stone village occupied since 4,000BC

Day 2:  Dana Biosphere Reserve to the Dead Sea

• Kerak Castle: t he largest and most well preserved of the Crusader Castles. The 12th Century Castle is perched atop a hilltop in the town of Kerak
• Wadi Mujib:  a spectacular river canyon known as Jordan’s Grand Canyon. The river enters the Dead Sea over 400 metres below sea level and Moses is believed to have once walked through
• Madaba Map: an incredible mosaic map of the Middle East created in the 6th Century located in the early Byzantine church of Saint George in the town of Madaba

7 | The Dead Sea

Swimming in the Dead Sea, Earth’s lowest elevation point, is a bucketlist moment in any Jordan itinerary. It’s aptly named the Dead Sea as the water is devoid of life and, with salt levels 4 times higher than the rest of the world’s oceans, it’s a case of floating rather than swimming! The water contains 35 minerals and these, together with the rich mud on its shoreline, make it a spa treat for the skin.

Jordan Itinerary tip: only float on your back and don’t try to swim in the Dead Sea, wear beach shoes to protect your feet from the rocks and don’t shave before entering the water as the salt will sting!

How Long to Spend at the Dead Sea

The Dead Sea is a great place to kick back and relax a little after a hectic trip around Jordan. While one night is enough to experience it, we recommend two nights at the Marriott Dead Sea Resort for some great relaxation!

Where to stay at the Dead Sea

• Marriott Dead Sea Resort:  on the shores of the Dead Sea we loved this resort style hotel where we had direct access to the Dead Sea. Our highlights were the fantastic evening happy hour, the views from our balcony and the resorts swimming pools – Check latest prices here!
• Crowne Plaza Jordan Dead Sea Resort and Spa:   another great option with direct access to the Dead Sea, the Crowne Plaza is the must budget friendly of the luxury options lining the Dead Sea – Check latest prices here!

Click here for the best Dead Sea Resort Prices

8 | Day trip to Mount Nebo and the Baptism Site of Jordan

Mount Nebo is, according to ancient tradition, the place from which Moses saw the Promised Land before he died and, at 700 metres above sea level, the views of the Holy Land and the Jordan Valley are spectacular. It’s the reported death and burial site of Moses and the church with the mosaic is a highlight of a visit.

The Baptism Site, Bethany Beyond the Jordan, is a relatively recent addition to the UNESCO World Heritage List and is considered to be the original location of the Baptism of Jesus and the site where John the Baptist resided. It’s surreal being beside the narrow waters separating Jordan and Israel and it’s common to see baptisms taking place on the Israel side of the site.

9 | Return to Amman

After leaving the Dead Sea we made our way back to Jordan where we were departing from the Queen Alia International Airport. If you have some extra time, Quseir Amra is an excellent stop about 70 minutes east of Amman. The well-preserved 8th Century desert castle built as a royal desert oasis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its incredible frescoes.

20 thoughts on “The Ultimate Jordan Itinerary with map (2023)”

What car rental company did you use??

Hi Zak, we used RentalCars.com We chose Hertz or Avis as they had a good price.

This was amazing! I will be utilizing this itinerary. I’m headed there next week as a solo-er and want to rent a car and take in the sites. Thank you all much! Everything on your list is where I desire to go.

Thanks! Have a great trip!

Excluding the hikes, which parts of this itinerary will involve a fair bit of walking which my 65-year old Dad will find difficult to do? He can easily walk 3-4 kms a day? Thanks in advance.

There’s a decent amount of walking in Petra but I believe those in need can utilise a horse and cart between the entrance and the Treasury although it may be at an additional cost.

I don’t remember any other places where excessive walking was required. In Wadi Rum for example, a jeep transported us around and we could walk as little or as far as we liked.

We are wanting to rent a car and road trip Jordan as well. I was just wondering if most of the hotels you stayed at charge extra for parking, or if there is a free lot included?

We didn’t pay for parking at any of our hotels, it was all complementary.

Awesome itinerary. Was it eight days long or were you there longer?

Hi Sandara, we spent 10 days in Jordan

Hello and thanks for your articles, they’re really helpful!

I’m gonna go to Jordan in September and can’t find any information about the parking spots. Are they secured? How did you do in-between hotels, did you travel and left the car with luggage in the booth? I’m worried that we get our things stolen and want to be sure 🙂

Thanks for your answer.

Hi Marie-Justine

Parking was easily available – there were car parks at hotels and tourist spots. We didn’t have anything valuable in the car (our cameras were always with us) but we’d no issue with security. We’ve had our car broken into twice (in the city we live in!) so we never leave our valuables in the car anymore no matter how secure it seems!

Looks like an amazing trip! How much would you recommend as a budget for a similar trip?

It wasn’t expensive – hotels were reasonable and fuel and car rental was cheap. I’m pretty sure we spent less than 100 usd a day and we stayed at lovely hotels.

great plan. have a doubt. though we rent a car for a week, during the three days stay in Petra is there a need for a car. or is it to be just parked in the hotel as most of the places will be covered by trekking

We used the car to drive to Little Petra but mostly parked at our hotel when we were there.

Hi there, Did you rent a 4×4 for the whole trip? It seems that most of the sites are reachable with basic cars, not sure about wadi rum though.

We had a standard car. Our only 4×4 was in wadi rum where someone drove us through the desert.

Great blog, got loads of ideas for my trip next month.

I’d like to camp in Wadi Rum but will only have a normal car. Im assuming the tours bring you around in 4x4s. How do you get to the campsites? Do they pick you up on the edge of the desert or how does it work?

Thanks, greetings from Ireland,

Hi Felix, we only had a normal car too. Everyone parks in Wadi Rum Village. From there the tours and camps take you into Wadi Rum in 4x4s. There’s no way you’d get in with a normal car, the sand is intense! Love your photography too, have fun in Jordan. It’s a stunning country, the Petra at night tour is a must for photos. We’re Irish too! Let us know if you have any other questions. David

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7-Day Jordan Itinerary: How To Spend 1 Week In Jordan

Posted on Last updated: May 6, 2020

If you’re looking for stunning desert landscapes, spectacular archaeological sites, good food and friendly locals, Jordan needs to feature on your travel bucket list.

Jordan had been on my list for quite sometime and being able to recently spend 7 days in Jordan was a dream come true for me.

In this post I’ve put together my Jordan itinerary with information on what to see, where to stay, travelling times between destinations and anything else you might need to know for your own Jordan 7-day itinerary.

So read on and start planning your Jordan itinerary!

• 1.1 When is the best time to visit Jordan?
• 1.2 Getting around Jordan
• 1.3 Cuisine in Jordan
• 1.4 Why you need the Jordan Pass
• 1.5 What to pack
• 2.1 Day 1: Fly into Amman
• 2.2 Day 2: Jerash & Dead Sea
• 2.3 Day 3: Kerak & Little Petra
• 2.4 Day 4: Petra
• 2.5 Day 5: Wadi Rum
• 2.6 Day 6: Aqaba
• 2.7 Day 7: Return to Amman & fly out

Admiring the Treasury of Petra, Jordan

Jordan itinerary planning: Essential things to know

Before jumping straight into my day-by-day Jordan itinerary I want to cover a few of the biggest questions I had before my Jordan trip, which I think you will find useful in planning your own time in Jordan.

When is the best time to visit Jordan?

Starting with the basics, when should you actually visit Jordan? The high season in Jordan is in spring, from March to May, when the temperatures are moderate and the days start getting longer.

I was there in December, which isn’t recommended since it can rain quite often and it gets very cold in the evenings, but I loved it since there weren’t as many people around, especially in the main tourist attractions like Petra.

I wouldn’t recommend visiting in summer since the temperatures can go up to 40°C in Aqaba and the Dead Sea.

Admiring the Wadi Rum desert in Jordan

Getting around Jordan

There are buses and coaches that travel around the country, however they are not very regular and only touch the big cities. The best way to get around Jordan is to rent a car and drive yourself.

If you’re not a comfortable driver you can also hire a driver with the car, this will obviously be more expensive but you will still have the freedom of going where you want and spending how long you want at each location.

You can also do an organised tour and sit back, relax, and have someone else take you around Jordan.

The colonnade of Jerash in Jordan

Cuisine in Jordan

The cuisine in Jordan is similar to that in other countries in the Middle East, with lots of rice based main dishes and traditional “mezzes” as starters.

Some of the most famous dishes are hummus, a puree of chickpeas, and falafel, deep fried chickpea balls.

One thing to note about eating out in Jordan is that Jordan is a Muslim country, meaning a lot of places don’t serve alcohol.

You will find alcohol in big five star hotels or liquor stores, but the average restaurant most likely won’t serve alcohol.

Little Petra in Jordan

Why you need the Jordan Pass

If you’re planning on spending more than 3 nights in Jordan I highly recommend you get the Jordan Pass . The Jordan Pass is an initiative of the Jordanian tourism authority to make it easier for tourists to travel around the country.

There are different packages, the most basic one costs 70 JOD (99 USD) and includes your tourist visa for Jordan, 1-day entry to Petra and entry to a lot of other attractions in Jordan.

If you calculate that just the tourist visa would be 40 JOD and 1-day entry to Petra would be 50 JOD, you’ve already saved money!

Camels in the Wadi Rum desert in Jordan

What to pack

What you should bring to Jordan massively depends on the time of year you’re visiting, however there are some essentials that you will need regardless of when you’re in Jordan.

Comfortable walking shoes : If you’re planning on following this Jordan itinerary (even if you’re not) you will probably find yourself walking a lot every day, make sure you’re comfortable doing so!

You don’t necessarily need trekking shoes, I only had a pair of trainers, just make sure to bring shoes you know you can walk in for long periods of time.  

The amphitheatre of Jerash in Jordan

Power bank : Yes I may be a little attached to my phone but especially when I’m travelling to a new country I like to make sure it’s always charged, you don’t want to be lost somewhere you don’t know without Google Maps handy!

Tank tops , t-shirts and long sleeved shirts : Dress in layers! More so than any other destination I found that the layer approach was necessary in Jordan.

The days started off very chilly, became fairly hot as the sun climbed and then it got cold again at night. If you wear a couple different layers you can strip and then dress up again as the day goes on.

Desert views in the Wadi Rum, Jordan

Swimsuit : Whether it’s in the Dead Sea or in the Red Sea you will most likely go for a swim in Jordan, don’t forget your swimsuit!

Water bottle : Save money and the planet by bringing your own reusable water bottle to refill, instead of buying new plastic ones every time!

The forum of the archaeological site of Jerash and the new city of Jerash in Jordan

7 days in Jordan itinerary

Day 1: fly into amman.

What better place to start your Jordan trip than in the capital city of Jordan? We flew into Amman early in the morning, which gave us a full day in the city. Even if you have the Jordan Pass it can take a while to get through passport control.

Add to that waiting for your luggage, changing money and organising a transfer into the city centre and it can be a while before you’re ready to hit the city.

There are lots of beautiful places to visit in Amman .

Depending on what time you land you can start your Jordan trip with a visit to the Roman Amphitheatre (just make sure to check the time, as this closes at 4PM in winter and 6PM in summer) or walking around the souks of Amman.

Entry at the Roman Amphitheatre is included in the Jordan Pass. You can end your first day in Jordan with a local Jordanian dinner at one of the trendy restaurants in Rainbow Street; my personal favourite was Sofra Restaurant .

We spent our first night in Jordan at the Shams Alweibdeh Hotel Apartments , a 20 minute walk from the centre of Amman.

Check out the latest prices and availability at Shams Alweidbeh Hotel Apartments

View over Amman and the Roman theatre from the citadel of Amman

Day 2: Jerash & Dead Sea

As soon as you wake up on day 2 it’s time to hit the road. You only have one week in Jordan and lots to see! Pick up your rental car and get ready for a 45-minute drive, enroute to Jerash.

Jerash is a city 52km north of Amman, where a huge Roman archaeological site can be found. Entry at Jerash is included in the Jordan Pass.

I was surprised to find that the archaeological site of Jerash is located in the middle of the modern city of Jerash (it can be confusing, I know).

On Google Maps search for “ Jerash Visitor Car Parking ”, not “Jerash Visitor Centre”, as this is the correct entrance and there is also plenty of space to park.

One of the theatres in Jerash, Jordan

Jerash archaeological site in Jordan

The nymphaeum in Jerash, Jordan

Jerash was a prosperous city until the mid-eighth century when a huge earthquake destroyed large parts of it. In the following centuries it was ruined by subsequent earthquakes and due to being the location of war efforts.

They started excavations on the ancient city in 1925 and are gradually bringing new parts of it to light. Today only 5% of the ancient city is actually above ground and visible.

The main areas of ancient Jerash that you should visit include the Amphipheatre, the temple of Zeus, the temple of Artemis, Hadrian’s Arch and the Forum.

The site is fairly big and it will take you at least 2 hours to visit it all. When you arrive at the entry local guides will come up to you offering to show you the site, the guide isn’t compulsory so it’s up to you whether you want one or not.

If you do get a guide just make sure to haggle on the price (like with everything else in Jordan)!

View over the Forum of Jerash in Jordan

The colonnade in Jerash, Jordan

Once you’re done visiting Jerash grab a quick wrap or sandwich to eat in the car since it’s time to hit the road again!

The stretch of the drive is much longer so make sure you have snacks and water with you, as there aren’t many shops along the road.

There are 88km from Jerash to the Dead Sea and it will take you at least 1 hour and 45 minutes to drive there, probably more if like us you get out at the wrong exit in a roundabout and get stuck in traffic.

The temple of Zeus in Jerash, Jordan

The temple of Artemis in Jerash, Jordan

The columns of the Jerash archaeological site in Jordan

The Dead Sea is a salt lake that is 430m below sea level, the lowest point on dry land on Earth. It has a salinity of 34.2%, which is 9.6 times saltier than the ocean and the 7 th saltiest lake in the world.

The high salinity prevents any plants and fish from living in it, hence the name Dead Sea . The salinity also makes it extremely easy to float, which turned it into a popular tourist attraction.

If you don’t take a photo floating in the Dead Sea with a book in hand, have you even really been there?

Floating in the Dead Sea, Jordan

You can try driving along the coast of the Dead Sea and just going for a dip anywhere you find, but I would highly recommend going to an equipped beach.

As soon as you step out of the Dead Sea the salt will dry off and get really itchy on your skin, you’ll really appreciate having a fresh water shower readily available.

Also if you’re visiting Jordan in autumn or winter, when the temperatures aren’t that high, it’s nice to have hot showers there. One of the cheapest beaches you can go to is Amman Beach, for 20 JOD per person.

What you get is very basic and not really worth the price in my opinion, but the alternative of having extremely dry and salty skin until you reach the closest shower made it worth it for me.

After floating around in the Dead Sea we waited for the sunset and then drove to Madaba, where we spent the night at the Delilah Hotel .

Check out the latest prices and availability at Delilah Hotel

Sunset over the Dead Sea in Jordan

Day 3: Kerak & Little Petra

You have one of the longest drives of the trip ahead of you today; a whole 213km from Madaba to Wadi Musa, approximately 3 hours of driving. If you want to break up the drive you can do a stop at Kerak Castle.

Kerak Castle is one of the largest crusader castles in the Middle East and it sits on top of a hill with epic views of the surrounding landscape.

The castle is very well preserved and you can explore the various rooms, tunnels and all the internal and external areas of the castle.

Access to Kerak Castle is included in the Jordan Pass. There are some local restaurants just outside Kerak Castle where you can grab lunch on the go before heading on to Little Petra.

The view from Kerak Castle, Jordan

The courtyard and surrounding views of Kerak Castle, Jordan

Inside Kerak Castle, Jordan

Little Petra is located just before Wadi Musa, and it’s the perfect site to visit prior to seeing Petra. It’s lso known as Siq el-Barid and it’s a Nabataen archaeological site, with buildings carved into the walls of the canyons.

It’s a much smaller site than Petra and while the buildings are less elaborate, the natural beauty of the location is what amazed me.

We walked through to the canyon and past the buildings, to a small rocky platform that overlooked the rocks and canyons.

From here you need to climb a bit over some rocks to reach a beautiful viewpoint where you can wait for the sunset. The path isn’t well marked though so I would ask one of the local guides to take you.

We paid 5 JOD per person for the whole visit to Little Petra, prices aren’t fixed and you can haggle when you’re there.

One of the buildings of Little Petra in Jordan

Hiking to the viewpoint of Little Petra in Jordan

View from Little Petra in Jordan

Walking through the canyons of Little Petra, Jordan

Canyon views in Little Petra, Jordan

Sunset in Little Petra, Jordan

After Little Petra we went to our hotel in Wadi Musa, the Peace Way Hotel , to shower and chill a bit, we had an early dinner in town and went straight back out to see Petra by Night.

Petra by Night is a show that is on every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 20:30 to 22:30.

During Petra by Night they light 1,500 candles all along the Siq and in front of the Treasury, where they play live music, serve complimentary tea and tell stories of the place.

Entry isn’t included in the Jordan Pass and costs 17 JOD, you can ask your hotel and they’ll get you tickets.

Make sure to get there early enough so you can enjoy it without too many people, seeing the Treasury lit up by thousands of candles is magical.

Discover the latest prices and availability at the Peace Way Hotel

Petra by Night

Day 4: Petra

I hope you’re ready for the highlight of your Jordan trip. Petra is one of the most famous attractions in Jordan and rightly so.

Petra is a 60 squared kilometre archaeological site, where stunning Roman and Nabataean ruins can be found on a red rock and canyon backdrop.

The Treasury and Monastery of Petra, with their well-preserved facades built into the rock are amongst the most iconic locations in Petra.

Make sure to get to Petra early in the morning, so that you can beat the crowds. A one-day entry ticket is included in the Jordan Pass.

Some people prefer to spend longer in Petra, I personally found that one day was enough to see everything I wanted to.

In one day we walked 20km and saw the Siq, the Treasury (both from below and the viewpoints above), the Royal Tombs, the theatre, the Colonnade and the Monastery.

Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and to bring water and snacks with you!

| READ MORE: 20 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING PETRA |

Admiring the Monastery of Petra

The Treasury of Petra, Jordan

Day 5: Wadi Rum

After the last two days you might think it’s impossible to top the beauty of Petra, and yet you will find that the Wadi Rum desert will give Petra a run for its money.

On the fifth day you can have a bit of a lie-in to recover from all the walking, but you should still set off fairly early in the morning as you have 112km and almost 2 hours of driving ahead of you.

We did a tour of the desert with Beyond Wadi Rum Camp . We parked our cars at the Wadi Rum Village where our guides were waiting for us with open back 4×4 jeeps. We set off for a full afternoon tour of the Wadi Rum desert.

Camels in the Wadi Rum desert, Jordan

The view from the top of Lawrence’s spring in the Wadi Rum desert

Red sand dunes in the Wadi Rum desert

Exploring the Wadi Rum desert in Jordan

The Wadi Rum desert is huge, but most tours will take you to see all the same main attractions. These include; the red sand dunes, Lawrence’s spring, the Khazali canyon, the house of Lawrence, Abu Khashaba canyon and Um Frouth Arch.

You won’t easily forget the natural beauty of the canyons, arches and views you will see today. It’s easy to see why the movie The Martian was filmed here!

The viewpoints at Lawrence’s spring and house aren’t well marked so you need to do a big of climbing to reach them, but they’re well worth it!

We ended the day at viewpoint that is also a popular sunset spot, where we watched the sinking sun turn the rocks and sand around us even more red.

Um Frouth Arch in the Wadi Rum desert

Khazali canyon in the Wadi Rum desert

Desert views in the Wadi Rum

Sunset in the Wadi Rum desert

I was in Jordan in December and the sun set at 16:30 and I was a bit worried about what we would actually do for the rest of the afternoon and evening.

After the sunset they drove us to the camp, where we had dinner in the big communal tent (they cook the food in the traditional Bedouin way under the sand and will take it out just before it’s time to eat!) and danced traditional dances.

Unfortunately it started raining while we were having dinner so we were unable to see the stars, but if you’re there on a clear night sky you will see the most incredible stars.

Maybe bring some card games with you so that if the weather is bad you have something to entertain yourself with for the evening.

| READ MORE: ULTIMATE GUIDE TO WADI RUM OVERNIGHT TOURS |

Desert views from the house of Lawrence in the Wadi Rum desert

Desert views from Lawrence’s spring in the Wadi Rum desert

Day 6: Aqaba

After a pretty packed week this is the relaxing day of this Jordan itinerary. Breakfast is served fairly early at the Beyond Wadi Rum Camp, so once you’re up its time to hit the road again.

The drive from the Wadi Rum desert to Aqaba is only 70km and will take around 1 hour.

Once you get there pop by your hotel (we stayed at the Dweik Hotel ) to drop off your bags, change into a swimsuit and you’re ready for the beach and the Red Sea!

Click here to book your stay at Dweik Hotel!

The Red Sea in Jordan

Similarly to the Dead Sea, I suggest visiting an organised beach since women aren’t allowed to be in a bikini in public beaches.

We went to Berenice Beach Club, a short 15-minute drive away from Aqaba. Entry is 10 JOD each and it’s a very well equipped beach.

There is a changing room with lockers, a pool, a beach bar, sun beds with beach umbrellas, a beach volley court and snorkelling gear you can rent.

You can snorkel by the beach and will be able to see lots of coral and fish, or you can do an organised 2-hour boat trip that will take you to snorkelling spots slightly further away.

Berenice Beach Bar serves alcohol so why not sit back on your sunbed, order a mojito and wait for the sun to set on your last full day in Jordan.

Sunset in Aqaba from Berenice Beach Bar

Day 7: Return to Amman & fly out

Your Jordan trip is coming to an end, time to head back to Amman and squeeze in some final sightseeing before you fly out.

Amman is 330km away from Aqaba, approximately a 4-hour drive depending on whether you do the more direct Desert Highway or the more scenic Kings Highway.

If you set off early enough in the morning you can make it to Amman in time for lunch. After a quick wrap on the go from the souk, head over to see the Amman Citadel (entry is included in the Jordan Pass).

This is archaeological site located on top of a hill in the centre of Amman and it’s a great combination of history and epic views, the perfect way to end your time in Jordan!

After this final sight seeing in Amman it’s time to head back to the airport and fly home, where you can start planning the next trip.

The citadel in Amman, Jordan

Have you been to Jordan before? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below! Visiting Petra and Jordan had been on my travel bucket list for a very long time and I was stoked to finally travel there.

For me 7 days were enough to see everything I wanted to, if you want to visit Petra more in depth or spend long relaxing by the Red Sea you can always shuffle around this itinerary or spend longer in Jordan.

I hope you find this 1-week Jordan itinerary useful in planning your own Jordan itinerary!

Enjoyed reading my 7 days in Jordan itinerary? Pin it!

Monday 30th of September 2019

Hi Greta, for Wadi Rum, do you think 4 hours is enough to see all the sights? x thanks

Hi Caitlin! Yes an afternoon should be enough to see all the main spots, that's more or less how long our tour lasted and then we went to the camp for the night. If you have the time though I would definitely stay a night in the desert, it's a really unique experience! x

Becca Talbot

Monday 20th of May 2019

I went to Jordan back in May 2017, and I had the best time! I did pretty much everything here on your list too. One thing you've not mentioned much of is the street art everywhere in Amman, which is definitely worth a look - can't wait to go back to Jordan! x

Monday 27th of May 2019

That's a good point, I saw some beautiful street art around Amman! :)

Wednesday 8th of May 2019

Did you have an opportunity to go to Wadi Mujib and where could you fit that into an itinerary like this?

Wednesday 29th of May 2019

Unfortunately I was in Jordan in December and I couldn't visit the Wadi Mujib. If I were to go back in summer I would probably swap it out with Jerash on day 2 or Kerak on day 3. Hope that helps! :)

Saturday 23rd of February 2019

Thanks for all of this great information. I am hoping to go to Jordan and Israel in May.

Monday 25th of February 2019

No problem, glad you found it useful! You're going to love Jordan, it's such a beautiful country!

Tuesday 8th of January 2019

Great post. You really captured the architecture well. This post reminded me of my trip to Israel last year, I got to visit the dead sea too. The highlight of being in that area was the food as well as that there's so much to see.

Thanks, glad you enjoyed my post! The Dead Sea really is an incredible place to visit, I loved the food there too!

The Perfect Jordan Itinerary and Best Things to Do in Jordan

Wadi Rum, Jordan

This is the Perfect Jordan Itinerary, Filled with All The Best Things to Do and Places to Stay While You’re in Jordan!

For my first international trip of 2021, I chose to visit the amazing country of Jordan. I had such a fantastic time and I couldn’t wait to share it with all of you, in full detail.

Best of all, I felt super safe in Jordan; enough so that I would be comfortable renting my own car next time I visit. 

If you were inspired by my Instagram stories and posts and want to plan your own trip to Jordan, I want to share my ultimate Jordan itinerary with you! If you want a place where adventure and luxury can come together in the most magnificent way...Jordan is it. 

I recommend spending at least ten days in Jordan, especially if you want to visit all of these places that I went to. There’s a lot to see, and you don’t want to rush. I spent six or seven days and I wish I had stayed longer!

Amman, Jordan has spectacular Roman ruins that you must add to your Jordan Itinerary!

Jordan Itinerary Part I: Amman

Amman is the capital city of Jordan, with a population of just over four million residents. It is a modern city built atop ancient Roman ruins, so there are many different types of things to see in Amman, from ancient to modern and everything in between. 

Best Things to Do in Amman

With so many great things to see in Amman, you really have to be efficient with your time and plan out your Amman itinerary meticulously. Better yet, hire a guide who can whisk you around to see as much as possible. These were a few of my favorite things to do in Amman, Jordan.

Visit the Amman Citadel which sits on a hill overlooking the city. It contains a Roman temple, a Byzantine church, and an Umayyad palace.

Shop for 21k gold jewelry at the market

Eat falafel

Take a day trip to Jerash, Jordan to see the walled Greco-Roman settlement which includes Hadrian’s Arch which dates back to the 2nd century.

Take a day trip to the Baptismal Site of Jesus , where you can visit the actual site on the Jordan River where Jesus was baptized. It’s definitely touristy, but a pretty important place in history.

Where to Stay in Amman

I stayed at the W Amman and it was amazing! I hadn’t stayed at a W Hotel in so long; I forgot how fun they are. Before you even get to the front desk, you’re already enveloped in the welcoming embrace of the W Amman. 

The entrance was inspired by the slot canyons of Petra and it feels very similar to walking through Arizona’s Antelope Canyons. 

The iconic entrance at the W Hotel Amman, Jordan is designed like the slots in Petra.

My room at the W Amman had gorgeous views over the city, and of course, easy access to the W’s Whatever/Whenever amenity. Yes, they will get you whatever you need, whenever you need it, as long as it’s not illegal! I used the service for a fast turnover of laundry; super useful service on a whirlwind trip like this!

Jordan Itinerary Part II: The Dead Sea

You can’t visit Jordan without a trip to the Dead Sea. Although you can easily visit the Dead Sea on a day trip from Amman, I wanted the full experience, so I stayed overnight at the Dead Sea. Floating in the Dead Sea is the therapy I didn’t know I needed. (even if I did break out from the mud later!) 

Visiting the Dead Sea is a must on an Jordan Itinerary!

The Dead Sea is bordered by Jordan, Israel, and the West Bank. This is where you come to relax and experience the unique feeling of floating in super salty water. The salt and minerals in the water make your skin super soft, although if you have any open cuts, it’s going to sting!

Where to Stay at the Dead Sea

One of my favorite properties on the planet— The Kempinski Ishtar at the Dead Sea in Jordan

I stayed at the Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea. I was really looking forward to this hotel, and when I arrived after dark, I couldn’t wait to wake up and see the whole resort! 

Inspired by the hanging gardens of Babylon, this hotel quickly became one of my all-time favorite hotel stays ever! My villa came with a huge soaking tub, and a large outdoor seating area so I could enjoy the poolside view. 

Floating in the Dead Sea is one of the best things to do in Jordan. It’s a must-do on any Jordan Itinerary!

The spa at the hotel is fabulous, too! This was hands-down one of the most relaxing properties I’ve ever stayed at. 

I definitely recommend you float in the dead sea and cover yourself with all of the mud. it will make your skin feel softer than ever before. If you have any cuts during your visit, the water is so salty it may sting a bit.

Jordan Itinerary Part III: Petra

The Treasury at Petra is the most recognizable sight you will see on your Jordan Itinerary

What to See in Petra

Petra is probably the most well-known destination in Jordan and, as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is a huge reason why many people visit this part of the Middle East. 

Petra is huge a bucket list item for most travelers, and let's be honest-- it's probably the reason you are reading this guide to Jordan!

While the Treasury is the most iconic scene of Petra, there’s way more to this ancient city. It would take days to explore is all, but you can see a lot in a one-day visit to Petra. However, be prepared for the massive size of Petra. 

People actually lived in the caves in Petra until the 1990s! The people from this area are called Bedouins and after 1985 when Petra was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, they were kind of forced to move out to a nearby area that was built for them. 

Many Bedouins are working in tourism now. My Petra tour guide actually lived in a cave until he was 14. At 14 his father decided to move the family to a nearby town.

Your Jordan Itinerary may have some surprises in store for you when visiting Petra. Petra has ancient Roman ruins!

Of course, the Treasury is the most well-known and awe-inspiring part of Petra. It is immensely beautiful and the craftsmanship is crazy impressive, especially once you realize it was all carved out of the rock. It’s all one piece; the columns were not carved and installed; they are actually part of the rock wall!

The Monastery is another impressive building in Petra. It’s much bigger than the treasury, and it’s much less crowded It’s a bit of a hike, which helps keep the crowds down.

Hike the Treasury Viewpoint trail for Instagrammable views of the Treasury from above. It’s a fairly steep 45-minute hike, but the views are totally worth it. If you’re not up for hiking, there are often donkeys you can hire to give you a lift around Petra.

Visit Little Petra , another settlement north of Petra with smaller buildings carved out of stone. It’s thought to have been an overnight stop for those traveling to Petra.

Grab a drink at the Cave Bar , which is just outside the entrance to Petra. Like the buildings of Petra, this one is also carved out of a rock wall.

Petra by night is another bucket list experience. On Monday and Wednesday nights Petra is lit up by candles and is an experience you must not miss on your visit. You will want to plan your Jordan itinerary accordingly to be in Petra on a Monday or Wednesday night!

Petra Travel Tips

There’s a lot to see in Petra, so it’s important to plan ahead and organize your day to get the most out of your visit. My tips for visiting Petra include:

Plan to spend a full day, if not two days, at Petra. Do not plan to rush in and rush out, as you’re going to want to linger at every building. As the light changes, you’re going to want to go back and revisit some buildings.

Get a guide. Especially one like mine who can speak to the area from personal experience.

Definitely wear hiking boots and layers because it goes from chilly to hot pretty quickly.

Light is better in the afternoon, buildings are more orange later in the day and more sun-washed in the morning.

Get there early. I was the first and only person there for over 2 hours... but that’s because I was there during a pandemic and I was the only foreign tourist everywhere I went. You can still have it to yourself if you get up before the sun comes up, however!

If you are getting up early and you’re someone like me who needs a coffee in the morning, make an arrangement with your hotel the night before, or find a canned iced coffee situation from the gas station the night before. The coffee they sell at Petra (at least by the Treasury) is pretty much undrinkable, it’s so bad.

Where to Stay in Petra 

Not to be confused with the famed Treasury, the Monastery is a little further of a hike but you shouldn’t miss it when you visit Jordan. Be sure to save this instagrammable spot in Petra for your trip to Jordan

For this leg of my Jordan trip, I stayed at the Marriott Petra. It was by far, one of my favorite Marriott hotels I’ve ever visited. I really felt like I was in Jordan, with the amazing design elements that incorporated local culture. 

This lush oasis sits just outside the entrance to Petra, making it easy to be one of the first travelers to arrive in the morning. The staff was amazing, and the mountain views were killer, especially at sunset! 

There isn't much to do in the surrounding city of Petra, so I recommend taking it easy and relaxing at the hotel for dinner, where there are still plenty of traditional Jordanian dishes to try.

Jordan Itinerary Part IV: Wadi Rum 

Besides Petra, a visit to Wadi Rum is probably the next most popular place to go in Jordan. The Wadi Rum desert is unlike anyplace you have ever been.

This valley in Southern Jordan was cut into the surrounding sandstone, leaving a magical landscape that looks like Mars. It’s even where The Martian was filmed! Star Wars, Aladdin, and Lawrence of Arabia were all filmed here, too. 

This place is definitely high on the list of most incredible places I’ve ever stayed, it's highly recommended to stay in a bubble tent at least once in the Wadi Rum desert!

Wadi Rum 4x4 Tour

Exploring Wadi Rum, Jordan

Visitors to Wadi Rum will typically stay in a Bedouin camp in the desert. It’s more of a wilderness experience, but totally unique to this area. 

I spent the day racing through sand dunes in the back of a 4x4. This jeep tour (or, it's actually more of a truck tour as it's more like sitting in the bed of a pickup on benches) was one of my favorite experiences in Jordan; It was so freeing to chase the golden sunset across the vast desert. 

This is easily arranged by the camp once you arrive. It’s not something you generally have to plan in advance. 

Although, I recommend sending an email about these things in advance just to double-check. Driving through Wadi Rum was the break I didn’t know I needed. It felt so free!

Camel rides are also a common part of visiting Wadi Rum; I wanted to do one, but sadly with the state of tourism at the moment, there were no camel rides to be found. 

Of course, the stargazing at night in the desert is beyond compare. I had the chance to visit Rum Sky Stargazing during my trip to Wadi Rum, and it was incredible. 

Without nearby light pollution, you can see so many stars with your own eyes. Of course, we also explored the night sky through telescopes. 

The experience was fun and educational. I learned so much about our stars, planets, and universe! We looked at some “new” stars in a nebula through the telescope.

Where to Stay in Wadi Rum

I stayed at the Sun City Camp in one of their Martian Domes. They also have traditional Bedouin tents, royal tents, and family suites. 

Staying in a Martian Tent at Sun City in wadi Rum was a highlight of my Jordan Itinerary

The Martian Domes are geodesic domes that offer the most incredible “glamping” experience. One side is clear material (with curtains for privacy) that allows you to look out at the night sky from your bed. 

Although it looks like a tent or a yurt, you do have a real bathroom and shower inside. It’s a little hard to regulate the temperature in the room because it is, after all, a tent! It comes with a heater/AC — but it’s not perfect. Still, it’s great for 1-2 nights.

On of the best and most unique experiences you can add to your Jordan Itinerary is a night in a bubble tent or Marian tent in Wadi Rum.

The tent allows you some epic views, and it’s super private (although, given the current climate of the world— I was LITERALLY the only traveler— they opened up just for me. The food for dinner and breakfast was excellent!

Jordan Itinerary Part V: Aqaba

One of the most marvelous places to stay in Jordan was right on the Red Sea in Aqaba. From the Penthouse terrace at the Al Manara Luxury Collection you can see 4 countries and the breathtaking blue hues of the Red Sea. A must on your Jordan Itinerary.

For the last stop on my Jordan itinerary, I headed to Aqaba on the Red Sea. Lined with beach resorts, this is a popular place for windsurfing, water sports, and SCUBA diving. I couldn’t travel all the way to Jordan without diving in the Red Sea!

This was my first dive in three years, but I was in great hands with Essam at the Sinbad Dive Center. He was amazing, my favorite dive master ever !

I can confidently say that diving in the Red Sea was the best dive of my life! I had previously been on 19 dives and only saw sea turtles once. I was diving all over the world and never encountered them; it started to feel like a cruel joke. 

One of the best things to do in Jordan is go for a dive in the Red Sea in Aqaba! Be sure to copy my experience for your own Jordan Itinerary!

I finally saw two on my 19th dive, but they were gone in a flash. Finally, on dive # 20, in the Red Sea, I got some quality swim time with a gorgeous sea turtle. She was as big as me, and totally relaxed swimming alongside me. 

We swam together for quite a while, and she wasn’t scared of me at all. It was the most incredible experience.

Where to Stay in Aqaba 

For my time in Aqaba, I stayed at the Al Manara Aqaba.

They gave me the penthouse suite, which had a beautiful balcony AND a private rooftop terrace overlooking the Red Sea. I had a view of four countries from my own private rooftop! Jordan, Egypt, Israel, and Saudi Arabia all sit on the Red Sea. 

Enjoying breakfast on the terrace was definitely the perfect way to end my trip to Jordan. 

Getting to Jordan

As you can imagine, getting to Jordan from the United States isn’t always fast, but that makes it all the more worthwhile!

There are some direct flights on Royal Jordanian, from certain cities, but not from Los Angeles, where I departed for my trip.

There are many ways to travel to Jordan from Los Angeles, but I chose the fastest route, on Qatar Airways, with a stop in Doha. It’s one of my favorite airlines, and the Qsuites are incredible!

Flying Qsuites on Qatar Airways is the best way to Jordan.

Another fast route is to take Turkish Airlines through Istanbul. I was in the air for about 24 hours, and all told, spend 30 hours in transit. However, the Qatar Airways Al Mourjan Business Lounge in Doha is a great spot for a layover!

Things to Know About Jordan

If you want to plan your own trip to Jordan or join one of my Trusted Travel Girl curated trips to Jordan, there are some things you might want to know ahead of time. 

As I mentioned, I felt very safe in Jordan and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it as a solo destination for other female travelers.

While you can book an entire tour of Jordan, including my tour, I chose to travel independently and book individual excursions from several different vendors.

You do need a visa to enter Jordan, but they are issued at the airport, so it’s not anything you need to do ahead of time.

The food in Jordan is extraordinary! I had hummus pretty much with every meal, several times a day. I had a lot of great falafel as well and enjoyed some traditional Jordan dishes as well.

Depending on where you stay, Jordan can actually be an affordable travel destination. I didn’t find the prices in Jordan to be outrageously expensive. Of course, accommodation in Jordan can run from a basic backpacker hostel to luxury suites, so it’s easy to plan a trip you can afford.

Hiring a driver is the best way to get around Jordan. It allows you to be more efficient with your time, and you will probably learn a lot from your driver.

Girl Eat World

A girl's adventure in food and travel around the world.

• Jordan Itinerary and Travel Guide: 8 Days trip of a lifetime!

Jordan is the first Arabic country I’ve ever set foot in, not counting all transits I’ve done through Dubai Airport. I went to Jordan as a guest of the Jordan Tourism Board. I visited quite a few places during the trip – Amman, As-Salt, The Dead Sea, Petra, and Wadi Rum.

My time in Jordan was absolutely amazing. It was everything I hoped it would be – I tried food I have never heard of, checked off two items from my travel bucket list (Petra and the Dead Sea), learned plenty about Bedouin culture, and gained insights into Arabic culture firsthand from locals.

So in this post, I’d like to impart that knowledge to you!

How to explore Jordan

The jordan pass: what is it and is it worth it, jordan travel tips, is jordan safe.

• What food should I eat in Jordan?

8 Days in Jordan Itinerary

What else can i do in jordan.

Normally I’m a fan of traveling on my own, but Jordan is a country where you will greatly benefit from a local’s insights, so I must recommend joining a tour while you’re here. There is so much cultural context you can learn by having a local with you.

I recommend booking the following tours, depending on how long you’re planning to stay in Jordan, all based in Amman:

• 2-Day Tour – if you have a limited time but want to see the essentials of Jordan
• 3-Day Private Tour
• 5-Day Private Tour
• 6-Day Private Tour
• Jordan Allure Tours is the one I personally used when I was in Jordan. The tour is run by Ramzi, my tour guide who is a native of Wadi Musa, the town where Petra is located. If you want a highly customized tour, you might want to try him.

Tip: Joining a Jordanian tour could also mean your tourist visa fee of 40 JOD will be waived if you’re holding a passport from a non-restricted country (those who can obtain a visa on arrival). You can check the visa fees and requirements here .

The Jordan Pass is a travel pass created by the Jordanian government that will grant you access to some of Jordan’s most popular attractions. If you are planning to visit Petra while you are in Jordan, this is a great way to save up.

The main draw of this pass is that your tourist visa fee (which normally costs 40 JOD) is also waived if you’ve purchased the pass before arrival in Jordan and if you’re planning to stay for at least 3 nights in the country. Based on this alone, the pass is likely worth it for most visitors to Jordan!

Here is the official link to buy The Jordan Pass , and here is a list of included attractions .

Even if you’re going with a tour, it’s still worth it to buy Jordan Pass because most tours do not include tickets to attractions or tourist visa costs.

Buy a prepaid SIM card at the airport or in town – You definitely want to stay connected throughout your trip in Jordan. Zain is the major telco in Jordan. Their data plan is affordable and SIM cards can be easily purchased at any Zain store. You can check the price list here. Keep in mind you need an unlocked phone for this SIM to work. In my experience, the Zain SIM card worked flawlessly when I was there.

Dress appropriately – although Jordan is not a super conservative country, it is still important to cover up and dress respectfully while you’re here. You don’t have to cover up from head to toe, just use common sense. Don’t wear very short shorts, short skirts, crop tops or sleeveless tops.

If you are visiting on a Friday , some traditional markets and shops might be closed during prayer time, as Friday is a holy day in the Muslim religion. However, big tourist destinations should still remain open so it will not affect your visit as much.

Getting out from Airport – to make things easier, you might prefer having someone pick you up – you can pre-book an airport transfer here . Otherwise, a taxi to Amman is a fixed price of JOD 22 – about US$31.

Short answer: yes, absolutely!

Jordan borders Syria and Iraq, probably the two most antagonized countries in the 21st century. But, Jordan itself has always been a peaceful kingdom.

When I received an invitation from the Jordan Tourism Board, I personally did not hesitate to go. I did hide it from my family though – I told them I was flying alone to Jordan mere hours before the flight was scheduled to take off. That conversation did not go well, but I went on the trip anyway, and… spoiler alert, I was fine!

I can honestly say I have never felt threatened in my entire time in Jordan, even as I was walking by myself or walking around the city (jetlag hit me hard, so I went on a morning walk in Amman). There had been a few small-scale terrorist attacks in Jordan since 2016. I say you would run the same risk visiting major cities like London or Paris, which had also been subjected to terrorist attacks in recent years.

Exercise common sense and always be vigilant. Chances are you’ll be fine.

What to eat in Jordan

I’m glad you asked because I have a whole post on food in Jordan here . Expect to have delicious falafels, hummus, tender meat with amazing spices, and more!

Okay, now that we got the important stuff out of the way – here is what I did during the 8 days I was in Jordan. You can take this as an example and build your own itinerary based on what you’re interested in.

• Day 1 : Arrive in Amman
• Day 2 : Explore Amman
• Day 3 : As-Salt – Day Trip from Amman
• Day 4 : Go to the dead sea
• Day 5 : Dana Nature Reserve
• Day 6 : Petra, The Rose City
• Day 7 : Wadi Rum, The Desert of Jordan
• Day 8 : Drive back to Amman and fly out

Day 1: Arrive in Amman

On the first day, arrive in Amman and settle down at your accommodation. Since this is your first day in Jordan, I recommend taking it easy. The area I would highly recommend exploring today is Jabal (mountain) Amman, a heritage district in Amman located on top of a hill that can be explored on foot.

1. Rainbow Street

Rainbow Street is a very nice area to walk around in the historic area of Jabal Amman. This street is filled with cafes, restaurants, and pubs.

I recommend checking out Al Quds Falafel for the BEST falafel sandwich you’d ever have, which is also the only item on the menu of this small stall. I wasn’t even feeling too hungry and I told Ramzi (my guide) that I was only going to eat half, but once I tasted the falafel sandwich, I knew I had to finish it.

I also recommend trying Gerard Ice Cream down the street if you still have some space. I recommend trying the Arabic flavor if they have it, which consists of crumbled pistachio and gum arabic made from acacia tree sap. The pistachio gave an amazing texture that really compliments the fragrance of gum arabic.

You can also visit Souk Jara , if you are there on a Friday. Souk Jara is an open-air flea market where you can find local products made by local artists. Another option is Trinitae , where you can find handmade soaps and dead sea mud beauty products – perfect for souvenirs.

2. Wild Jordan Center

From Rainbow Street, Wild Jordan Center is just a short walk away. Wild Jordan is a cultural center that doubles as a restaurant, but the best part of this place is that it’s perched on top of a cliff, and from the roof, you get a really nice overview of the Amman Citadel!

3. Dinner at Fakhreldin

Fakhreldin serves Lebanese cuisine in a very cozy yet elegant restaurant. If you feel like you’re stepping into someone’s house, that’s because you are! The restaurant ground used to be a house. It was originally built and constructed during the mid-20th century’s golden era by one of the Prime Ministers of Jordan before being turned into a restaurant in 1997.

At Fakhreldin, I had the Mezze appetizer and mixed grill as mains. Mezze consists of small dishes to taste, sort of like tapas in Spain, and I basically tasted everything that was put in front of me, including a really creamy Hummus and a dish of chicken liver with molasses – my personal fav.

By the way, I love the concept of Mezze so much that I had to write a dedicated post about it .

Where to stay in Amman

La Locanda Boutique Hotel is a great option for Amman. I stayed here for the entire 3 days that I was in Amman. The hotel is conveniently located, breakfast was great and there is a convenience store down the street. Also, their breakfast was delicious!

Day 2: Explore Amman City

Today, we will take the time to explore more of Amman! You’ll see all the sights, cultural centers, and museums in the capital of Jordan.

1. Breakfast at Shams El Balad or Hashem Restaurant

Start your day off with breakfast at Shams El Balad or Hashem . Both are vegetarian restaurants serving traditional Jordanian fare that is well-loved by locals.

Shams El Balad feels more modern and upscale with its trendy location, whereas Hashem feels a bit more modest. But don’t be fooled – Hashem is the oldest restaurant in Jordan. The restaurant is loved by the Jordanian royalties as well.

2. Amman Citadel

After breakfast, make your way to the Amman Citadel, a historic site located in the center of downtown Amman.

You might not be expecting to see Roman structures here, at least I wasn’t, but that’s exactly what you’ll find here at the Amman Citadel.

The Citadel dated back to the days of Roman occupation over Amman in 162AD. You can explore the Temple of Hercules ruins, which includes some impressive Roman columns and a marble remnant of the hand of Hercules, and Ummayad Place. From the size of Hercules’ hand, it is speculated the statue once stood at 13m, making it one of the largest marble statues known to man.

Amman Citadel has been inhabited by many different cultures, including the Byzantine or Eastern Roman Empire, evidenced by the ruins of a Byzantine Church that was built in 550 AD.

You’ll also get to explore Ummayad Palace , a large palace complex built over the Roman structure, which is thought to have been built in 724-743 AD during the reign of Umayyad Caliph Hisham.

If you are interested more in artifacts and archeological sites found in Jordan, you can also go to Jordan Archaeological Museum , which is included with your Citadel entrance fee.

3. Roman Theater

At the foot of the Citadel is an impressive Roman Theater, yet another remnant of the Roman period in Amman. This theater was built in the 2nd century when the city was known as Philadelphia and seats about 6,000 people. Nowadays, the amphitheater is still used for concerts and other musical events.

4. Al Balad / Downtown Amman

From the Theater / Citadel area, you can walk to downtown Amman, the traditional market area in Amman where you can find anything. If you are visiting on a Friday though, shops might be closed during prayer time.

I recommend visiting Gold Souq , where you’ll find rows and rows of gold jewelry, and Habibah Sweets (try their Knafeh!)

5. Dinner at Shawarma Street

Shawarma Wrap is yet another Middle Eastern cuisine that is so delicious that it has been adopted all over the world. Shawarma is made by stacking slices of meat and fat onto a vertical spit, which will rotate and grill the meat for long hours – sometimes even an entire day. Once it is ready, the meat is shaved off with a large knife and collected at the bottom of the spit, before being made into a delicious wrap with onion, fresh vegetables, and Tahini sauce.

The Shawarma Street at Al-Fadl Ben Al-Hasan St on the 7th circle is popular among locals. It takes a bit of work to get there, about 20 minutes by car from downtown Amman, but if you want to see a real local scene then it’s worth it. This street consists of tiny shawarma stalls, with the most popular being Reem and Bashka .

6. Nafisa Sweets at 7th Circle

If you decide to come out to Shawarma street, then make sure you stop by Nafisa too! Nafisa is a famous Arabic sweet shop, and the one thing to get here is Knafeh, a Syrian dessert made with cheese and ground cashew, and pistachio. This one is a real show-stopper, especially if you happen to catch a fresh batch. They are baked daily on the spot.

There are clear windows where you can watch all the action in the kitchen from outside of the shop, so it makes the trip super fun.

Day 3: Day Trip from Amman to As-Salt or Jerash

Now that we’ve explored Amman, it’s time to get out of the city for a bit. For a day trip, I recommend visiting either As-Salt or Jerash. If you loved the Roman ruins at the citadel, you’ll want to check out Jerash. But if you want to see more markets and Jordanian culture, you can head to As-Salt.

I went to As-Salt to explore the markets. As-Salt, sometimes referred to as just Salt, is an ancient city just an hour away from Amman. It used to be the regional capital during the days of the Ottoman Empire, serving as the trading hub. Nowadays, you can enjoy visiting the traditional souks (markets) for some food, shopping, and handicrafts. It’s very doable to make this a day trip from Jordan.

You can visit Abu Jaber Museum to learn about the history of As-Salt. It is a small museum, so it won’t take you long to get through. From there, the Hammam Street Market is within walking distance, where you can get lost and wander around for a few hours.

Day 4: The Dead Sea

You cannot visit Jordan without dipping your feet in The Dead Sea. The beach area accessible to tourists is only an hour away from Amman by car.

Most of the beach is lined up by five-star resorts, but if you don’t want to stay in these resorts, you can go to one of the public beaches. They charge an entrance fee of 8-20 JOD per person. However, I’ve read mixed reviews about the public beaches as it tends to be dirty and the facilities are not great. If you are only planning to stay for a few hours, then the public beach is probably ok, but if you’re planning to stay for an entire day, then booking a resort might be your best bet.

Whichever option you choose, here are some tips and what to expect at the dead sea:

• The feeling of floating on the ocean was a strange feeling, but great! You don’t have to try very hard to stay afloat and it feels like you are lying on top of pool floaties .
• You probably won’t be staying in the water too long, since the water is extremely salty. For me, I found that my skin started getting tingly and itchy after about 5 minutes so I had to get out.
• If you are at the resort, they might have the dead sea mud ready for you to apply to your skin. Try this! The minerals contained in the mud are supposed to be very beneficial for your skin.
• Wash off right after you get out before using the towels, or else you’ll find salt in your towel later on.
• Don’t wear light colored swimsuit. The sand is very fine and might get stuck in the suit.

Where to stay in The Dead Sea

I stayed at Kempinski Ishtar Dead Sea , which was such an amazing (and massive!) resort. There are multiple pools, luxurious spas, and a private section to the Dead Sea just for resort guests. And of course, their facilities are top-notch. It was so well worth it!

Day 5: Dana Biosphere Nature Reserve

From the Dead Sea, continue your way down south. We made a slight detour into the mountains to visit Dana Biosphere Reserve, Jordan’s biggest nature reserve at 308 square kilometers. Dana stands out as it houses a large diversity of plants, birds, and mammals.

If you love nature, you’re in for a treat. We stayed in Dana for camping – although personally, I would call this “glamping” since the camps are already built and there are even beds inside. You can hike around the nature reserve or visit Dana Village, which is said to have been occupied since 4000 BC.

Where to stay in Dana

Rummana Campsite is where I stayed in Dana Nature Reserve in the mountains. Both the nature reserve and the drive up there were absolutely beautiful! You cannot park your car near the camps as it is inside the nature reserve, but you can leave it at the visitor center. The staff of the campsite will pick you up from there.

Day 6: Petra, the Rose City

Finally, the site of what Jordan is best known for – Petra the Rose City. The Nabatean ancient city Petra has become the ultimate symbol of Jordan, and it’s really no surprise why – everything there was majestic. It looked like I was on a set of an Indiana Jones movie! Well, actually, I wasn’t too far off – Indiana Jones and The Last Crusade were filmed here!

I checked off my second Jordan bucket list here, which is to see The Treasury (Al-Khazneh). To get here, you first walk the 1.2km long Siq , a narrow gorge that serves as the entrance to Petra. I was brimming with anticipation, and at about 20 minutes in I started to wonder if we were ever going to get there.

But Ramzi, my tour guide, was one hell of a guide and he knew how to build up the excitement. That reveal of The Treasury at the end of the Siq was magical! This is why I recommend going with him at Jordan Allure Tours . The walk would have been just another regular walk if it wasn’t for him.

Another must-see at Petra is The Monastery (Ad Deir). This one takes a bit more work to get to as it’s located almost at the end of the city, but it’s worth it! It’s a LOT larger than the treasury. You can see the scale of it from this photo below – I’m somewhere in the photo in case you didn’t notice!

I recommend spending two days here because the place is massive and there is so much to see in Petra.

Petra is only open from 6 am and closes at 6 pm. However, you can come back and visit Petra by Night for a view of the treasury, lit by candlelight. Petra by Night is held every Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 8:30 to 10:30 PM. The ticket costs 17 JOD.

Where to stay in Petra

Petra is located near a town called Wadi Musa , and that is where all the accommodations and restaurants are located. Staying overnight inside the Petra area itself is illegal , so please do not attempt that. It would be a very silly way to get yourself into trouble in a foreign country.

Mövenpick Resort Petra was where I stayed and it really doesn’t get any better than this hotel in terms of location. It is literally right across the entrance of Petra, which makes it very convenient if you plan to come back and see Petra at night.

Day 7: Wadi Rum

Wadi Rum is a desert filled with sandstones that are taller than some of the skyscrapers in Singapore. Due to the extreme terrain that makes it look extraterrestrial, it was chosen to be the set for movies like The Martian and Lawrence of Arabia.

In Wadi Rum, you can take a desert tour which takes you on a 4WD around the desert. I highly recommend this, since it’s not really possible to see the desert otherwise – you definitely cannot walk or take a regular vehicle.

One of the stops at the tour was a Camel camp, and I was so amused as it was only the second time I had ever seen a camel (the first time being at Uluru, Australia )

I also highly recommend going on a camel ride to see the sunset. The sunset in the desert was absolutely beautiful. Be careful when going on a camel ride though, make sure you maintain your balance so you don’t get thrown off the camel. I, fortunately, did not get thrown off but there were moments where I felt like I could have fallen off too!

Where to stay in Wadi Rum

Captain’s Desert Camp is such a cool accommodation. You get to stay in a traditional Bedouin-style camp in the middle of the desert. They also do BBQ at night, and even cooked Zarb , a Bedouin BBQ cooked underground, which was one of my most memorable meals in Jordan.

Day 8: Drive Back to Amman and fly out

And finally, your stay in Jordan has come to an end. The drive back to Amman from Wadi Rum took approximately 4 hours, so keep this in mind when booking your flight.

My flight was at midnight, so I stayed at a hotel near the airport for a little while before flying out. I had a terrible experience at the hotel though, so I am not going to recommend staying there. If you have more time before your flight like me, I suggest visiting Amman again to see anything you might have missed.

Will 8 days be enough in Jordan? It could be. I personally wish I had more time in Jordan. I mean, I did get to see the best of Jordan in the 8 days that I was there, but it felt rushed and I missed out on things like Jerash and visiting the Red Sea.

If I were to have a do-over, I would have extended my stay to at least 12 days. Here are some places I would visit, in addition to the itinerary above:

• Aqaba (1 day) – I love diving and I have heard so much about the red sea, so this is definitely on my bucket list.
• Jerash (1 day) – This historical city houses the best-preserved Roman ruins outside of Italy
• Wadi Mujib (1 day) – This site is best known for canyoning and water sports. Totally right up my alley! It’s too bad I had no time, even though we stopped by to see the entrance to the canyoning site. It looked amazing.
• One more day in Petra – I would allocate 2 days in Petra since the site is spread apart and there is just so much to see there.
• Jerusalem and Bethlehem – It’s possible to do a day trip to see Jerusalem and Bethlehem from Amman. However, be mindful that they are located in a different country than Jordan and you need to have obtained a specific Jordanian visa to be able to do the border crossing. Please check with your tour guide!

Looking to learn more about Jordan?

Check out my other posts on Jordan:

• Mezze Experience in Jordan
• Jordanian Food Guide: 16 Traditional Middle Eastern Food You Must Try in Jordan

29 Comments

• April 5, 2024

Hi Melissa Wow thank you so much for the information.. I’m going to Jordan end of April on my own .. I will be there for 9 days .. I will take your advice and use the tour agent you recommended.. they will help with of the days?? Transportation and accommodation?

Bless you thank you again Salwa

Hey Salwa, yes typically the tours will organise everything for you including food, temptations and hotels

• January 29, 2024

Hi Melissa – great post! Did you use Jordan Allure tours for your entire stay in Jordan? Did they drive you from one place to another?

Hey Gary, yes they arranged from start to finish including transport.

• October 9, 2023

Hi Melissa,

This post is so informative for my Jordan Trip. Was wondering did you get any Jordan Dinar in Malaysia before flying to Amman? If yes, where did you get it? If not, do you only get it upon reaching Amman?

Hey Adrian, I live in Singapore. Was not able to find it here, so I brought USD and exchanged in Amman.

• June 19, 2023

Wonderful review and super helpful for our family planning to Jordan. Thank you for sharing

Have fun in Jordan, fellow Melissa!

• June 8, 2023

Thank you for your post. It will help me a lot to plan my travel. I only have one question if you could help me with that. Is that place ok to travel for Senior citizen? I am planning to take my mother, so want to know if there are any provisions for them as they definitely won’t be able to walk too much.

• June 10, 2023

Hey Pompa, if you hired a tour, it should be fine. But in places like Petra it might be difficult since it does require a lot of walking. You could ride a donkey so that could be an option for her?

• April 6, 2023

I came across your post at the perfect timing. I am planning a trip to Jordan in October and wasn’t sure how many days will suffice, but after reading your blog, I am going to book 14 days. The fact that you posted this was recently updated, made me even more excited and eager to book my trip. Thank you for sharing your insights and recommendations – especially the Jordan Pass details. 🙂

• October 3, 2022

This is an awesome review that is going to help me plan my Jordan trip in 2 weeks. Nicely covered from all angles.

• June 27, 2022

Really loved your review and the detail of your visit in Jordan. Can you please suggest the exact night accommodations as per this 8 days schedule? Is it like Day 1,2,3: Amman Day 4: Red Sea Day 5: Dana Day 6,7: Petra Day: fly off

please correct me if I have missed anything. thanks again for your great review. much appreciated

• June 28, 2022

Hey Shawkat, yes this is correct!

• January 18, 2022

Hi, I just want to ask what month did you go to Jordan and what’s the best time to go to Jordan. Thank you.

Hi, I went in May and it was perfect!

• December 9, 2021

I am visiting Jordan in 10 days and this post is going to help me plan things and make my life easier 🙂

• March 4, 2021

Hello Melissa! That’s a great post! I am really happy to have booked a trip to Jordan next may 🙂

I would like to ask you something: how did you get around in Amman? By taxi or on foot?

And how did you ger from Amman to Dead Sea and so on? Did you pay a transfer?

Thank you very much! I will definitely follow your food tips hehehe

Hi Andre, Amman downtown you can get around by foot, but you do need to take a taxi sometimes since the area is big. From Amman to Dead Sea, you do need to pay a transfer. I got a private driver since I had limited time in Jordan!

• November 3, 2022

Hi Melissa may I have your contact of the private driver. BTW how much is it? Tks again

• April 10, 2020

Hey, your blog post has just blown me away. I am a student and would love to travel to Jordan, too! Can you tell me what kind of travel expenses I can expect – considering I would want to do a trip similar to yours? Thanks in Advance!

• September 20, 2019

Hi there, Thanks for the guide. Just a question, how can I get a reliable tour guide / driver? I’m going to travel Jordan next month with my family. Thanks, Toan,

Hi Toan, I’ve put a tour guide recommendation above: https://www.facebook.com/jordanalluretours/

• July 21, 2019

Just wanted to say that yours was the best, most relevant and informative blog post I found about travelling in Jordan. Super helpful, big thumbs up from me.

• July 22, 2019

Hey Andrea, I am glad it was useful!!

• July 16, 2019

SabaH al-khayr Thanks for yourr interesting Blog Report. I am a freguent traveler to Jordan and I am not sure I agree with some statements. I don’t think all Palestinians in Jordan would agree the Knuafe originates from Syria, but from Nablus in Palestine. The photo decribing the road to Wadi Rum is not correct. The road om the photo is located in Little Petra / Beidha, another interesting place to visit 3km north of Petra. Last comment, the photo mentioning the beduin dish is probably not zarb. I do not they serve rice with zarb. The photo, to me, would be mansaf.

Many thanks for your information om Jordan, which I agree is a safe and friendly country.

Thanks Irene for the information! I can confirm the dish is definitely Zarb, or at least that’s what I’ve been told by the people in the camp.

• August 28, 2019

You are definitely right Melissa, it is Zarb. I’m Jordanian I assume I would know both dishes since we eat both of them at least once a week ;). But in regard to the Kunafa, I agree that it originally is a Palestinian desert, and it’s full name is Kunafa Nabulseyya, meaning from Nablus, a city in Palestine. Thank you very much for the informative post. Keep up the good work.

• March 18, 2019

Awesome!!! I love ur post and photo. I hope that I can be traveller like u hehehe.

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A 10 day Jordan Itinerary that's guaranteed to wow you

Jordan is one of those country's that is small enough to cover in a pretty short time. Whilst we'd recommend at least two weeks if possible, you can cover the major sights in just ten days.

Starting in the capital, you'll see a mix of ancient history and incredible natural wonders. We loved our month in Jordan and would highly recommended it as a great place to get acquainted with Middle Eastern travel. 

The people are incredibly friendly, the scenery is breathtaking, and Petra is worth the trip alone. We left this county completely wowed and still can't stop talking about it months later. Get there before the rest of the world wakes up to the fact Jordan is a safe country for travel, right now tourist numbers are down and it's the perfect time to travel. 

How our itinerary is different

Unlike the majority of itineraries out there, ours includes stops at places that very few people visit. The majority of tourists and travellers focus on just the big ticket stops - Amman, Dead Sea, Petra and Wadi Rum.

However, if you spend a few days more you will see Jordan’s Grand Canyon in Dana, the incredible Feynan Eco Resort in the middle of the desert and the Crusader Fortress. By stretching your trip to 10 days as well, you will get more of a feeling for the culture away from the places which have become more touristy in recent years.

10 Day Jordan Itinerary

Here’s a perfect 10 day Jordan itinerary:

Day 1: Amman Day 2: Wadi Mujib Day 3: Dana Day 4: Feynan Day 5: Wadi Rum Day 6 : Wadi Rum Day 7: Petra Day 8 : Petra Day 9: Kerak Day 10: Madaba

You can access a google maps version by clicking on this link .

Day 1 - Amman

It's likely that you will fly into Queen Alia International, so head into Jordan’s capital city - Amman - after landing.

AM - The Citadel

After checking in to your hotel, head to the Citadel.

The ruins are the perfect place to start your trip to Jordan , giving you a glimpse of the country's diverse history.

As the Citadel was built on the top of one of the highest hills, you'll also get a great view of Amman city. We loved taking in the the city from up here and seeing how houses and shops were built into the steep hills. 

If you are a photography lover, switch the Citadel with the Amphitheatre so that you arrive at the Citadel late afternoon and you can stay and photograph the ruins at sunset (not possible during Ramadan when the Citadel closes early). 

After taking in the Citadel, you can either grab a taxi or walk down to the Amphitheatre, which will take around 20 minutes. 

PM - The Roman Amphitheatre

The Roman Amphitheatre in Amman is another impressive remnant of Roman rule in Jordan.

Whilst it isn't quite the Colosseum, it's an interesting place to take in for an hour or so.

You can also visit the strange museums that are in the Amphitheatre, that showcase Jordanian history with creepy wax figures.

We loved that there were no crowds and you could get the whole place to yourself, now that's definitely not like the Colosseum! 

Dinner - Hashem's

Our favourite restaurant in the whole of Jordan was Hashem's. This local place serves up amazing falafel, hummous, flat bread and all kinds of other Middle Eastern staples for incredibly cheap prices!

We visited during Ramadan and experienced Iftar where people break the day's fast together. It had a really festive feel, and we loved having the chance to share in this experience. 

Getting to Amman from the Airport

You can either hop on a bus that leaves every half an hour ($3.50 USD) or book an airport transfer.

Airport Transfers

Getting from QAIA to Amman can be a pain. The airport buses are infrequent and the airport is a bit of a distance from the centre of Amman. Click here to check out Get Your Guide's airport transfers.

Where to stay in Amman

Gallery guesthouse.

We stayed at the Gallery Guest House ,  the best budget to mid-range choice you can get in Amman. For $40 USD a night we had a comfortable en-suite room on a quiet street with air-con. Breakfast is included in the price and is served on the roof terrace overlooking the city.

It is walking distance to many of the city attractions and we can't recommend this place highly enough. It was probably the best value stay we had in Jordan and after looking for ages online and seeing lots of horror stories about the cheaper hotels we were really pleased with this find. The guys that run it are lovely too. There isn't a lift though so check in advance where your room will be if stairs are an issue.

Check the latest prices for Gallery Guesthouse on:

Day 2 - The Dead Sea

Am - wadi mujib.

It's time to head into one of the most popular parts of Jordan: the Dead Sea. The journey from Amman can take up to two hours in a hire car and is a pretty straightforward drive (just look out for the speed bumps, even Jordanian motorways have them!).

Start by heading to the Siq Trail in Wadi Mujib. This hike through a canyon was one of our favourite things to do in the whole of Jordan and is said to be the easiest of all the canyon trails. The walk starts in ankle deep water and you can go as far as you choose. The entire trail takes around one hour each way if you don't stop too much. 

The canyon is absolutely breathtaking and wading through it was one of the most incredible walks we have ever done.

Check out our blog on the Siq Trail for more information on how to do this.

Don't have a car?

Then you can take a tour to Wadi Mujib and the Dead Sea with Get Your Guide. Click on the following to check out the tours from Amman or Aqaba .

PM - Mud up and float in the Dead Sea

The perfect way to spend the afternoon in the Dead Sea is to head to the water! If you are staying in one of the luxury hotels, all offer free and easy access to the Dead Sea for guests. 

However there are also public beaches you can go to as an alternative (for a fee).

Most hotels will also offer free Dead Sea mud so you can give yourself a bit of a spa day. 

The mud and Dead Sea itself are reported to have health benefits, especially for those who suffer from skin ailments such as psoriasis. If you go at sunset, you'll miss the crowds and also be able to float at the coolest part of the day (and won't have to worry about sunburn). So head down to the shore, cover yourself in mud and then float while the sun goes down.

If you think you can squeeze a bit more in, then check out the other things to do around the Dead Sea .

Where to stay in the Dead Sea

The movenpick.

We loved our stay at the Movenpick, a beautiful hotel with its own private beach on the Dead Sea. The hotel looks like a Middle Eastern town as the rooms are set in traditional buildings designed to keep the interiors cool. The resort has two infinity pools and one of the best spas in the Middle East. 

The rooms are really comfortable and are the perfect retreat from the heat of the Dead Sea.

Check the latest prices on:

Day 3 - Dana Biosphere Reserve

Am - dana hike.

After floating in the Dead Sea, head two hours south to the Dana Biosphere Reserve, one of Jordan's best kept secrets. You'll feel the air get cooler as you wind your way up through the mountains and you'll see the stunning views on the drive.

To start, head to Rumana Village. This camp site is the start of several short, but beautiful walking trails that offer views of the canyon below.

It is best to go as early as possible as the whole area has virtually no shade, making the middle of the day a pretty sweaty affair in the warmer months. 

You can find out more about the individual walks on our blog all about Dana .

PM - Exploring Dana Village

A pleasant way to spend the afternoon is to explore the gorgeous Dana Village. This old sandstone settlement is perched on the top of a hill and has the best views of the Wadi Dana, a magnificent canyon.

Whilst walking the streets you'll bump into the occasional donkey as well! It truly feels like stepping back in time. Make sure you don't miss sunset! 

Where to stay in Dana

Dana guesthouse.

We stayed at the stunning Dana Guesthouse . It has the best views in town and all of the rooms have balconies facing the canyon. The rooms are really comfortable and clean and the views even extend to the shower! It may be a little expensive, but it is by far the best choice in Dana and the wifi was the best we had in Jordan. 

It was a real relief to find as we had originally booked to stay at the Dana Hotel. If you value cleanliness don't make the same mistake we did. The Dana Hotel was filthy and despite the fact we've stayed in many $4 hotels in Nepal and India, we just couldn't stay in this one! 

Day 4 - Feynan Eco Lodge

Am - wadi dana hike.

The Wadi Dana Hike is one of the best things to do in Dana Biosphere Reserve and the perfect way to explore the area. The trail starts from Dana village and immediately heads down hill into the barren valley.

You'll pass through this stunning canyon whilst also meeting local bedouins and huge flocks of goats along the way. It is one of the few times where you can easily get out of the tourist areas in Jordan without a guide and see a bit of rural Jordan.

The 14km walk takes between 4 - 6 hours and we'd recommend leaving early. Wadi Dana gets very hot during the day and the walk offers virtually no shade. Take a lot of water and food, and enjoy the walk!

PM - Feynan Eco Lodge & Sunset Hike

When you arrive at Feynan, you feel a long way from anywhere, and it's a truly magical experience. 

The Eco Lodge is situated in the middle of a dried up river bed and is completely off the grid.

It generates its own power, harvests a local water source and does everything possible to reduce it's carbon footprint and waste.

Even though we'd walked for over four hours to get to Feynan, we chose to do the sunset hike as well! It took us to a beautiful look out where we could see the sky turn orange as the sun set through the desert haze. Partner this with some Bedouin tea and you have a perfect evening. Read this for more thoughts on Feynan Eco Lodge . 

Day 5 - Wadi Rum

Wadi Rum is the home to many famous stories and it's hard not to get carried away when you visit this incredible place.

Whether you choose to be Lawrence of Arabia or Matt Damon in The Martian, it's hard not to feel like you've strayed on to a movie set, a million miles away from western civilization.

A trip to Wadi Rum will be one you remember for the rest of your life and we recommend spending at least one night as it is one of the unmissable things to do in Jordan .

The majority of the morning will be taken up with the journey to Wadi Rum. You will need a taxi from Feynan to your car in Dana (this takes up to three hours) and then it's another two hours to Wadi Rum.

Before you arrive, organise a tour (sadly this is the only way to explore Wadi Rum unless you are highly skilled in map reading and 4x4 driving) and plan to meet up in the afternoon. Make sure you put in a request to be taken to a sunset view if you're camp doesn't have one, the view is spectacular as the sun turns the desert a dark red.

The night sky in Wadi Rum is also stunning, so try to stay up as late as you can. Snag a camp site that is far from Wadi Rum Village's light pollution and stare in awe as you see hundreds of stars appear. Most camps will offer the option to sleep outside if you like. 

Day 6 - Wadi Rum

Am - sunrise on a rock bridge.

There's no rest for the wicked, so get up early to see a beautiful desert sunrise.

This is the best time of day to be out exploring as the air is blissfully cool.

We chose to watch the sunrise at Little Bridge, a small rock arch, which offered a stunning view across the desert. It is one of the most Instagrammable places in Jordan .

After this it's time to explore the many sights in Wadi Rum. We enjoyed seeing the ancient enscriptions on the Kharzali Canyon and the many viewpoints around the desert.

Make sure that you clearly communicate with your tour the kind of things you want to do unless you are totally happy to have them lead. Although we enjoyed seeing Wadi Rum, we tried to organise a walking tour which was underwhelming. Before booking your trip, make sure you read our blog all about organising your trip to Wadi Rum .

Day 7 - Petra

Am - the treasury.

It's time for the showstopper: Petra. Can you visit Jordan without exploring this incredible city?

We had wanted to see the Treasury in Petra for decades and were blown away as soon as we saw it.

It is one of those places which lives up to the hype and more.

It takes two hours to get to Petra from Wadi Rum by car. Head straight to the Treasury to get that 5 star view. The best way to see it for the first time is to walk from the Visitors Centre down the stunning Siq (a huge canyon) and wait to be awed as it opens out to this iconic place.

After taking it in from every angle on the ground, why not head up to the top to see the Treasury from above. You'll need a guide, but there's plenty of people who will be trying to sell their services in front of the Treasury. 

The climb up is pretty precarious and not for the faint hearted. The path is carved out of rocks and will require some clambering but is very short at only 10-15 minutes. Once you're at the top, the view will blow you away. 

Note: This itinerary is based on limited time in Jordan, ideally we would recommend that you visit The Treasury first thing in the morning (sunrise) to avoid the crowds, so if you have the luxury of a bit more time then aim for this. Here are some tips on how to avoid the crowds at Petra . 

PM - The High Place of Sacrifice

After a hectic morning, if you're staying nearby we recommend heading back to your hotel for a few hours and avoiding the busiest time of day.

After a break head back in to Petra via the Treasury (any excuse to see this icon 😉).

Walk round to the Why Not Cafe and find the stairs leading up to the High Place of Sacrifice.  

As the sun goes down and the temperature drops, there is no better place to be in Petra. The views from the High Place of Sacrifice are stunning, especially for sunset.

It takes about 30 minutes to climb up to the top (and the path is virtually all uphill), but is worth the effort. If you want to read more about the walk up (or any other part of Petra), then check out our guide to planning the perfect trip to Petra .

Where to stay in Petra

You'll be doing a lot of walking and a lot of going in and out, so the Movenpick is a great choice!

Firstly, it is directly opposite the main gate (tick). This means you'll not have to add even more distance to your walk. 

Secondly, it is the best choice in Wadi Musa for style and comfort. The breakfasts were delicious and great fuel for exploring, we were able to recharge after each visit to Petra so we could keep exploring!

Day 8 - Petra

Am - little petra to petra walk.

The best way to see the Monastery (a must do in Petra) and avoid the crowds is the Little Petra to Petra Walk .

This 8km hike takes you from the beautiful Little Petra to Petra, the back way, allowing you to see a side of Petra that very few others do.

There are uphill sections, but it is a walk that most people of a modest fitness can do.

We recommend starting early to walk in the cooler weather and you should ideally finish by about midday.

PM - Petra By Night

Petra By Night is a magical experience, especially if you do it during low season. Seeing the Treasury and the Siq lit up by candlelight with live Jordanian music playing was very special.

It is only on three nights per week, so make sure you plan your trip to Petra to coincide with a Monday, Tuesday or Thursday to see this spectacle. 

To ensure you get the most out of Petra By Night, check our guide all about making the most of your experience .

You can now purchase your tickets in advance for Petra By Night with Get Your Guide . This includes hotel pick up, meaning all you have to do is turn up! You can check availability and prices by clicking the button below.

Day 9 - Road trip 

Am - kerak castle.

After Petra, drive 2.5 hours north on the King's Highway to Kerak. In the centre of the town, you'll find Kerak Castle, one of the largest crusader castles, which is an interesting place to explore for an hour or so.

It was besieged twice before Saladin finally took this important stronghold.

There isn't too much of it left, but walking around the walls will show you why this was an important place to capture. From the walls, you can see for miles in all directions as the castle is perched on the top of a very steep hill. You'll get more out of the visit if you have read up about it ahead of time.

PM - Stop off at the upper part of Wadi Mujib

Continuing north, you'll soon reach the northern end of Wadi Mujib.

The views of Jordan's answer to the Grand Canyon are breathtaking and well worth pausing for some photos.

Just before the dam is an obvious viewpoint. If you stop here you will no doubt meet Sam, an eccentric but super friendly man who has set up a stunning tea lounge with an epic view.

He's also developing accommodation (which will be listed on Airbnb) so that you can stay here if you choose, waking up to this epic view every morning. You'll probably find you stop for far longer than you planned but it will definitely be memorable. 

Day 10 - Madaba

Am - st george's church.

The final stop in Jordan is Madaba, the mosaic city.

Here you'll find some of Jordan's Christian History and an interesting change to what you have seen elsewhere.

The best place to start is St George's Church which is in the centre of Madaba.

This church is home to one of the most detailed and oldest maps of Palestine in existence. You'll need to cover your legs or wear one of their gowns to enter the church. 

It is worth going to the visitor's centre to understand the map in more detail as we struggled to understand what we were looking at first time round!

PM - Church of the beheading of St John The Baptist

After St George's head 10 minutes down the road to the Church of the Beheading of St John the Baptist.

This church has some old photographs of Madaba throughout the years as well as information about Christian settlement.

You can also go to the foundations and explore some of the older parts of the church.

The final part of your visit it up the bell tower to get a terrific view over the city. You will have to climb some staircases and ladders amongst the bells to get up there! 

Where to stay in Madaba

The mosaic city hotel.

A comfortable and good value option in Madaba is the Mosaic City Hotel. It is centrally placed and the rooms are clean, comfortable and quiet. It also has free parking and includes breakfast.

Know before you go

Best time to go.

Jordan is predominantly a desert country and goes from very cold to very hot within a short time! The best temperatures are between March and May, and October and November. However, we strongly advise visiting Jordan outside of major holidays (Easter and school holidays) to avoid the crowds. We visited in May and saw barely anyone else. This also could have been because it was Ramadan, which also put other people off.

Visa and Costs

Jordan is an expensive country, so check out our guide to the costs of visiting Jordan before you go.

We’d recommend getting the Jordan Pass before you arrive as it makes entry to the major sights a lot cheaper (plus it includes the price of the Visa).

Car Rentals in Jordan 

Apart from the strangely placed speed bumps on highways, Jordan is actually a remarkably safe and easy place to drive.

The roads aren’t busy and other drivers are cautious and considerate. It is the way we recommend travelling around Jordan as you can go at your own pace and it isn’t too expensive.

We used RentalCars.com (which we always use) to snag a bargain! You can see their prices by clicking below.

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, that we will earn a small commission if you click through and decide to make a purchase. This helps towards the costs of running our website. :-)

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4 Days in Jordan: A Short but Unforgettable Itinerary

Jordan is a country of many wonders: the lost city of Petra , the Martian-like landscape of Wadi Rum , and the otherworldly Dead Sea are chief among them. And if you can believe it, you can fit all of these incredible sights into an itinerary for 4 days in Jordan. In this post, I’ll share how to fit it all in.

I’ll be honest: four days is a really short amount of time in Jordan. To visit the top sights, you’re going to have to pack a lot in each day, and spend a lot of time traveling between them. But don’t worry – it is possible! I recommend renting a car and driving yourself in Jordan to help make the most of your short time.

So since you’re short on time, let’s get right to it. Here’s my suggested four-day itinerary for Jordan!

Table of Contents

Day 1: Amman & Petra

This is your first full day in Jordan! As you can imagine, spending only 4 days in Jordan is not enough to discover the wonders of this Middle Eastern country. Nonetheless, we’ll make each of these days count! 

Start with a hearty breakfast at your hotel. Then, drive or walk to your first stop, Amman Citadel. Perched on the top of Jebel Al Qala’a, a hill in Amman, is Citadel, a complex of Roman ruins dating back to the Bronze Age. The place is quite compact and offers several sites to visit. The most famous ones are The Temple of Hercules and Umayyad Palace, whose ancient buildings are the best-preserved structure at the Amman Citadel. You’ll see there are plenty of information boards around, so you won’t need a guide. 

Admission to the Citadel is 2JOD, and it’s open daily. It takes most people 2-3 hours to explore the site, so you’ll finish in time for lunch. The best place to grab a bite is Jabal Amman, the historic neighborhood.

Now that your belly is full again is time to head to our next landmark in this 4-day Jordan itinerary: Petra.

To go from Amman to Petra , you’ll have to drive almost three hours south to the town of Petra, the ancient capital of the Nabataean Kingdom. The Rose City is located west of the town of Petra, where there are several high-quality hotels you can stay in.

In the evening, head to the Petra visitor center and book a ticket for the Petra-by-Night experience as it is not included in your Jordan Pass, in case you have one, or your Petra entrance ticket. As soon as the night hits, you’ll walk along the candle-lit Siq – a natural chasm–and enter the magical Rose City, where you’ll be welcomed by the stunning beauty of the Treasury building. There, Jordanian guides will teach you the history of this city and the Nabateans as you take in the beauty of the stars and candlelight-filled space. 

What a way to finish the first day of this Jordan itinerary for 4 days! Now it’s time to head back to your hotel and get some good rest.

Resources for Day 1:

• You don’t need to purchase Petra-by-Night tickets in advance, but be sure to purchase a  two-day ticket  to access Petra so you can go in for the night event and again tomorrow morning.
• Petra Moon Hotel  has a rooftop pool and nicely sized rooms; this is where I stayed on my first trip. Rooms start from $54/night; book on  Booking.com  or  Hotels.com .
• Petra Guest House  is another great option, even closer to the entrance of the Petra site; we’re staying here on our 2022 tour. Rooms start from $93/night; book on  Booking.com  or  Hotels.com .

Day 2: Petra & Wadi Rum

I hope you’ve had a good night of sleep because on your second day you’ll have to rise early and do lots of walking. 

Today, you’ll head up to Petra again to explore the city. The best way to know the sites comprising Petra is to hike. There are several trails you can follow, each taking you to different sites. The first trail starts in the visitors center and is a 1.3-mile walk to The Treasury. From there, you can choose where to go next; some popular options are The Monastery, Temple of Dushares, and Renaissance Tomb. Bring comfortable shoes and a bottle of water, for the heat and the sun, are unforgiving to those who visit Petra. 

Once you’ve explored Petra, return to your hotel and check out. Try to have lunch in Wadi Musa before hitting the road again. Wadi Rum is a two-hour drive away, and there’s no need to arrive too early.

After arriving in Wadi Rum, head to your camp and check in. If you arrive early in the afternoon, you can enjoy a cup of tea in the common area. When you see the sunset is approaching, take a 4×4 Wadi Rum tour. Your guide will show you the dramatic landscape full of rock formations, canyons, and valleys. Then, he’ll choose a beautiful spot to enjoy the sunset.

Back at your camp, it’s time to grab something to eat. Many camps offer a traditional Bedouin Zarb dinner; it’s an underground barbecue featuring lamb, vegetables, and rice. After enjoying dinner, if you still have some energy, you can enjoy a little stargazing before calling it a day. 

Resources for Day 2:

• Be sure to bring lots of water for your Petra hike!
• Book your sunset 4×4 tour in advance with your Wadi Rum camp.
• Speaking of Wadi Rum camps , my top recommendation is  Sun City Camp . They have traditional Bedouin tents with modern amenities inside plus ~*Martian Domes*~ (this is also where we’re staying for my 2022 tour!). Rooms start from $129/night; book on  Booking.com  or  Hotels.com .

Day 3: Wadi Rum & Dead Sea

Yes, today you’ll have to get up early, too. In fact, you’ll start day 3 by getting up before sunrise to take a camel ride out into the Wadi Rum desert. But hey, we already said we’d make each of the 4 days in Jordan count!

You can arrange camel tours through your Wadi Rum accommodation since most camps offer this as another tour excursion (in addition to the sunset 4×4 tour you did yesterday). Camel rides take roughly 60-90 minutes, so once you’re back at your camp in Wadi Rum, you’ll still have time to enjoy breakfast before packing up. 

A drive from Wadi Rum to the Dead Sea takes roughly 4.5 hours, so it’s important you’re en route to the Dead Sea as early as possible. There are two routes you can take:

• Desert Highway/Route 15 – an inland route that’s a little bit shorter but offers scenic views
• Jordan Valley Highway/Route 36 – a route that works northbound through the Jordan Valley and along the shores of the Dead Sea

Once you reach the Dead Sea, head to your resort and check in. Most resorts in the Dead Sea fall on the high end, with spas, private beaches, spacious rooms, balconies, on-site restaurants, bars, pools, and more. So, once you’ve left your luggage in the room, head out to explore the amenities your resort offers, or get ahead and float in the salty waters of the Dead Sea.

Resources for Day 3:

• Book your sunrise camel tour in advance with your Wadi Rum camp.
• For lunch, you may want to stop at a roadside stand or small restaurant between Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea. There are lots of options as I don’t have a specific recommendation and it depends on your route.
• Holiday Inn Resort Dead Sea  has a private beach and tons of ammenities; this is where we’re staying for my 2022 tour! Rooms start from $90/night; book on  Booking.com  or  Hotels.com .
• Ramada Resort by Wyndham Dead Sea  is where I stayed on my first trip to Jordan. It has beach access (that’s a bit of a walk) and a nice on-site pool. Rooms start from $62/night; book on  Booking.com  or  Hotels.com .

Day 4: Dead Sea & Departure

On your final day, how much time you have to spend at the Dead Sea depends on the time for your departure flight. 

It’s best if you rise early to soak up in the waters of the Dead Sea one last time. This way, you’ll also be able to start the day enjoying sunrise views while floating on the salty waters. 

After your last dip, it’s time to get going. Head back to your hotel to pack your suitcase, check out, and drive back to Amman. The estimated drive time to get from the Dead Sea to Amman is only 56 minutes. However, schedule your drive so that you have at least two hours to make it from your resort to the capital. Traffic can often be a bit chaotic in Jordan.

Once you’ve reached Amman, it’s time to make it to the airport and return home. 

While 4 days in Jordan isn’t enough to explore all the wonders this Kingdom has to offer, it is still enough time to visit the main landmarks (mostly, in a fast-paced way, as you can see.) If there’s something on this itinerary you would like to change, make sure to explore different options. Jordan has gorgeous sites all over the country. All you have to do is pick one that suits your interests. 

But one thing is for certain: as soon as you leave Jordan, you’ll already be planning your second trip!

Resources for Day 4:

• Arrange a late check out at your Day 4 hotel if needed.
• No hotels needed tonight due to departure.
• Use my guide for getting between  Amman and the Dead Sea  to see your trasport options.

While it’s a short time, your four days in Jordan will be unforgettable. Have any questions about this four-day Jordan itinerary? Let me know in the comments!

I fell in love with Jordan after my first visit in 2016; now I love returning to explore more – and writing guides to help you do the same.

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17 comments.

Claudia Padilla

Pls. Advise pricing for trip beginning March 5, 2023 for two adults

Thanks for reading, Claudia! This post is not about a tour. You will need to arrange your own trip or reach out to a tour company if you want to do this itinerary in Jordan.

Hi Valerie, Great blog and great itineraries and tips. Could you please recommend any local tour companies. We are a group of 10 ranging in age from 10 – 85 yrs wanting to spend 4-5 days in Dec 2022. Any assistance would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

Thanks for reading, Imtiaz! Check out Experience Jordan: https://www.experiencejordan.com/ If you contact them, ask for Tala and tell them Valerie sent you :)

Hi we are travelling with 2 kids who are 16 and 11 years. The above 4 day tour is it better to do as a package with a tour agent? Is it too much hassle to organise ourselves or manageable?. We are on a budget holiday no doubt but does the above need us to drive on our own and be lost about tours, etc.

I personally would choose a tour company/guide for that short of time. It’ll just take a lot of logistics and personally I’d just let someone else cover all that and enjoy the trip!

Hi Valerie, Can you help me. We don’t even have four full days. We have 5 but in these 5 days there must be also the flight to and from Amman which take approx 4,5 to 5 hours each The main goal is Petra , Wadi Rum and the Dead sea. Would that be possible ? I also prefer someone to drive us. Whom should you request ? Hope to hear from you Kind regards Nicoline

Thanks for reading, Nicoline. If you don’t have four full days, you will not be able to do everything that you want in that time. I recommend checking out this post, which will help you make the most of the three days you have: https://jordantraveler.com/3-days-in-jordan/

Also, I do not have a recommended driver, sorry.

My travel plan for Jordan in July:

-> 8/7 Arriving into Aqaba around 3:30 PM, rent a car then Drive to Wadi Rum and take a sunset tour and spend the night in a camp

-> 9/7 The next morning take a sunrise camel ride out into the Wadi Rum desert and then Drive to Petra arriving around 12 PM and tour Petra city(The Treasury, The Monastery, Al-Siq etc)

Question : (Since Petra by night is not available on a Saturday, I’d like to drive to Dead Sea from Petra on 9th. Do you think this it is possible or is it better to spend the night at Petra and drive the next morning?)

-> 10/7 (Option 1) if driving from Petra, arrive in Dead Sea by 12 PM and tour Dead Sea beach. Spend the night in a Dead Sea resort (OR) -> 10/7 (Option 2) Arrive in Dead Sea by 12 PM and tour Dead Sea beach, drive to Amman and spend the night in Amman

Q: How long does it take to tour and enjoy a dip in the dead sea?

-> 11/7 Tour Amman, return the car and fly out at 2:30 PM

Q. Do you recommend getting a Jordan Pass?

Could you please suggest if the itinerary looks good or would you recommend any changes?

Is it safe to visit Jordan alone with my child? How much would the 4 days tour -private tour cost-?

Manuela, hi, thanks for reading. I am not sure as I haven’t traveled with a child and don’t know how old your child is. Regarding private tour, I am not certain. I recommend reaching out to a tour company to inquire directly.

Shraddha Dhodiya

Hey.. i am planning a trip in nov during thanksgiving.. we are a group of 4.. would you suggest cab rentals with driver? Or some self drive cars?? Also does Indian drivinf license work in Jordon?

I have no idea about drivers licenses – you will need to research that through the official authorities. As for driving, it’s up to you if you are allowed to drive and want to navigate the roads directly; I prefer to have a driver so I can enjoy the ride.

Great post, thanks

I was hoping you may know in your travels wheather I would be able to hire a car in Isreal and bring it over to Jordan?

Thanks Nicole

Great question, Nicole – I’m honestly not sure. Google says no, and I’d probably lean on the conservative side in planning and assume the answer is no…

Karen Miller

Nicole – we will be in Dubai for Christmas and NY’s – thinking we may try a trip to Jordan while we are there. How is the weather in Jordan Mid-December through Mid-January? I realize the dead sea might be cold, but wondering if Petra is too cold or gets snow? Kind Regards – Karen

Karen, hi, please check this page as I cover every month: https://jordantraveler.com/category/seasonal/

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10 Day UAE & Jordan Tour Package

Availability

Important details.

Our 10 Day UAE & Jordan Tour Package will whisk you away on an enchanting journey of modern marvels and ancient treasures. Let the futuristic city of Dubai be the first stop of your adventure. Take an evening cruise along the Dubai Marina and marvel at the opulent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi. Then, head into the Lahbab Desert for a thrilling safari experience, where you’ll ride camels, bash the dunes, and go sandboarding. Afterward, fly to Jordan and feel like one of the locals in the vibrant capital city of Amman. Discover the ancient ruins of Jerash and the beauty of Mount Nebo. Enjoy a night at the Dead Sea hotel and immerse yourself in the rich waters. For more desert dreamscapes, head to Wadi Rum and take in the otherworldly landscape. Lastly, get lost in the magic of Petra, the rose-red city carved into stone.

Travelers seeking authentic desert experiences and real Arabian nights must join our 10 Day UAE & Jordan Tour Package . This immersive tour includes 9 nights of accommodations, expert local guides, safari tours, and a flight to Jordan from Dubai. Enjoy the perfect balance of adventure and vacation fun, from the Lahbab Desert to Petra. Reserve your tour now!

• Go on a Lahbab Desert safari of dune bashing and sandboarding
• Explore the Blue Mosque and Old Dubai like a local
• Discover the highlights of Abu Dhabi
• Enjoy an inclusive flight to Amman
• Explore Amman’s attractions and the ancient ruins of Jerash
• Visit Mount Nebo and take in breathtaking views over the Jordan Valley
• Enjoy expertly led tours and 9 nights of accommodation
• Experience a sunset Jeep safari and authentic Bedouin dinner in Wadi Rum
• Tour the iconic Petra Treasury and Al Siq with expert guidance
• Optional airport transfer
• Overnight in Dubai
• Begin at The Pointe, admiring views overlooking Palm Jumeirah
• Take photos of the iconic Burj Al Arab
• Explore the Blue Mosque, inspired by Istanbul’s Sultan Ahmed Mosque
• Cross the Creek in an Abra water taxi and explore Old Dubai
• Wander Al Fahidi Historical District and visit Al Khayma Heritage House
• Discover the evolution of Emirati architecture at Al Khayma
• In the evening, enjoy a relaxing hour-long boat cruise
• Explore Dubai Marina and see Ain Dubai, the world’s largest Ferris wheel
• Take in stunning night views of Dubai’s illuminated skyline
• Visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and explore the marbled halls, Swarovski chandeliers, and the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet
• Photo stop at the Louvre Museum on Saadiyat Island
• Drive along the Abu Dhabi Corniche, enjoying views of the Arabian Gulf and skyline
• Visit the Etihad Towers witnessing the 360-degree views from the 74th floor
• Tour Qasr Al Watan, the presidential palace, and the cultural site
• Head to the remote Lahbab Desert
• Learn about Dubai’s history, culture, and cuisine
• Enjoy a camel ride or pose for photos with camels during a short break
• Experience dune bashing on a 4x4
• Go sandboarding across the desert
• Airport transfer to Dubai airport
• Flight to Queen Alia Airport, Amman (included)
• Airport transfer to your hotel
• Overnight in Amman
• Discover the ancient ruins of Jerash
• Eat lunch in the ancient city
• Tour Amman's sites: Temple of Hercules, the Roman Theater, and King Abdullah Mosque
• Explore the modern-day capital of Jordan
• Tour Mount Nebo, the place where it is believed that Moses is buried
• Take in the breathtaking views over the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea
• Gaze out at Jericho on the other side of the border
• Continue to Madaba to admire the Byzantine & Umayyad mosaics
• Visit St. George's Church
• Overnight at the Dead Sea
• Transfer to Wadi Rum
• Relax and unwind (optional activities can be arranged, like hiking or camel riding)
• Jeep Safari tour in Wadi Rum at sunset
• Authentic Jordanian Dinner of Zarb (Bedouin barbeque), spreads, salads, and more
• Overnight in Wadi Rum
• Breakfast at campsite
• Transfer to Petra (including a view of Mount Haroun en route)
• Tour Al Siq, the Petra Treasury, the Obelisk Tomb, Jabal Madbach, and more
• Lunch at a local restaurant
• Free time to explore on your own

Available dates are shown in green along with the starting price for that date based on recent searches. Click on a date to move to the next step and customize your trip such as adding airport transfers, choosing your hotel, and adding extra nights.

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