If you’re wondering about the Top 10 Places to Visit in Jordan, this article has been written just for you. I know Jordan well, and I’ve spent a lot of time there. I want to share with you what I know.
Jordan has a rare mix of ancient history, wild landscapes, and a culture that’s genuinely alive. From the rock-cut facades of Petra to the endless desert of Wadi Rum, every place shows off a different side of the country’s story. It also has some of the friendliest people you’ll meet anywhere.
Top 10 Places to Visit in Jordan
The top 10 places to visit in Jordan bring together archaeological wonders, natural beauty, and cultural moments that work for just about any traveller.
You can float in the salty waters of the Dead Sea, stroll through Roman streets in Jerash, or dive into coral reefs near Aqaba. Amman and Madaba blend city life with old traditions, while the Dana Biosphere Reserve gives you a quiet escape into rugged nature.
Petra: The Rose City
Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in southern Jordan, stands out for its rock-carved buildings and deep archaeological roots. People call it the Rose City because of the pink sandstone cliffs, and it’s a place where you feel the Nabataean legacy.
The Siq Entrance
The Siq is this narrow, winding gorge that leads you into Petra. It stretches about 1.2 kilometres, with cliffs soaring up to 80 meters overhead.
Along the way, you’ll spot old carvings and niches tucked into the walls, remnants of ancient rituals. The shadows and tight turns build up the suspense as you head deeper.
Then, suddenly, the Treasury appears at the end of the gorge. That first glimpse is unforgettable, and it sets the mood for the rest of your Petra adventure.
The Treasury (Al-Khazneh)
The Treasury, or Al-Khazneh, is Petra’s superstar. Carved right into the rock, its massive façade stands about 39 meters high, covered with columns and ornate details.
Most historians think it dates back to the 1st century AD, probably as a royal tomb. The precision here is mind-blowing—those Nabataean stonemasons knew what they were doing.
Early morning or late afternoon light makes the rose-red stone glow. Most folks view the Treasury from the ground, but if you’re up for a hike, nearby trails give you a new angle on this icon in the best places to visit in Jordan.
The Monastery (Ad Deir)
Ad Deir, or the Monastery, is one of Petra’s biggest monuments. It’s about 47 meters wide and 48 meters tall. It’s less ornate than the Treasury but just as imposing.
Getting there means climbing over 800 steps carved into the rock. The hike gives you killer views of the mountains and valleys around.
At the top, there’s a big open space where you can finally catch your breath and soak it all in. The Monastery feels remote, and its scale makes it a must-see place to visit in Jordan.
Wadi Rum: Valley of the Moon
Wadi Rum, the Valley of the Moon, is a protected desert in southern Jordan. It’s famous for huge sandstone mountains, narrow canyons, and endless red sand, plus the chance to hang out with Bedouins in their own backyard.
Desert Landscapes and Rock Formations
This desert covers more than 700 square kilometres, with cliffs that shoot straight up from the sand. Wind has shaped the rock into arches, domes, and pillars over centuries.
Jebel Umm ad Dami, the country’s highest peak, and the Burdah Rock Bridge are standouts. Both spots are favourites for hikers and climbers.
The colours out here change all day, deep orange at sunrise, then soft pink as the sun sets. Some folks follow the Jordan Trail through Wadi Rum, linking it with other significant sights.
Adventure Activities and Camel Rides
Wadi Rum’s got something for every adventurer. 4×4 jeep tours zip you around fast, stopping at viewpoints and sites like the old Hejaz Railway station.
If you want to slow down, camel rides are classic. They are helpful for quick hops or longer, more immersive journeys. The camels are surprisingly chill.
Rock climbing is big here, with routes for both newbies and pros. Sandboarding down the dunes is a blast, even if you end up with sand everywhere.
Bedouin Culture and Desert Camps
Bedouins have called Wadi Rum home for generations. These days, many run tours and desert camps, sharing meals, music, and stories passed down over centuries.
You can stay in anything from traditional tents to modern domes with glass ceilings for stargazing. Bedouin tea, which is sweet and made with sage, is a staple at camp.
Some camps offer night walks or telescopes for stargazing. The clear desert skies make the Milky Way pop like nowhere else.
Dead Sea: Natural Wonder
The Dead Sea sits in the Jordan Valley and is honestly one of the country’s weirdest, coolest spots. The salt content is off the charts, so you float without even trying. The mud and mineral water are supposed to be great for your skin, too.
Floating Experience and Lowest Point on Earth
The Dead Sea is about 430 meters below sea level. It’s the lowest place on Earth you can visit. With salt levels more than eight times higher than the ocean, floating is effortless.
Most people use public beaches or resort areas along the Jordanian side. Don’t spend too long in the water, though. Ten to 15 minutes is usually enough.
Keep the water out of your eyes and mouth; it stings like crazy. Luckily, there are freshwater showers nearby for a quick rinse.
It’s an easy day trip from Amman or Madaba, less than an hour away. The Dead Sea resort area has safe entry points and plenty of extras for travellers.
Mineral-Rich Mud and Spa Treatments
Along the shore, you’ll find dark, mineral-rich mud that’s famous for its skin benefits. It’s packed with magnesium, sodium, potassium, and calcium, and supposedly great for hydration and circulation.
Most people slather on the mud, let it dry, then rinse off in the sea. Resorts here offer spa packages with mud wraps, massages, and thermal pools.
Some spas use water straight from the Dead Sea for baths and treatments. Wellness seekers and anyone with skin issues seem to love it.
Shops near the beach sell Dead Sea mud and salt so that you can take a little piece of the experience home.
I can tell you that Dead Sea soap is beneficial in managing eczema. If you’re a sufferer, I can recommend it, highly.
Jerash: Ancient Roman City
Jerash, up in northern Jordan, is packed with some of the best-preserved Roman ruins outside Italy. Walking its streets, you get a real sense of what life was like back in the day.
Grand avenues, temples, and theaters all show off the Romans’ love of order and design. The craftsmanship is something else.
Colonnaded Streets and Temples
The Colonnaded Street (Cardo Maximus) runs nearly 800 meters through Jerash. Stone columns line the way, and you can still spot the grooves from ancient cart wheels in the paving stones.
Major religious sites line this street. The Temple of Artemis stands out, with its tall Corinthian columns and detailed carvings. From up there, you get a great view of the ruins.
The Temple of Zeus sits on a high terrace, reached by a wide staircase. It once looked out over the main plaza and hosted big ceremonies. These temples blend Roman know-how with local style.
Theatres and Roman Ruins
Jerash has two main theatres. The South Theatre, built in the 1st century AD, could seat over 3,000 people. Its design lets sound carry perfectly—even to the back row.
The North Theatre is smaller and was primarily used for meetings rather than performances. Both are in great shape, with seating and stage areas still visible.
You’ll also find the Arch of Hadrian, built for the emperor’s visit in 129 AD, and the Oval Plaza, a unique open space surrounded by columns. These spots show how Jerash was a big deal in Roman Jordan.
Amman: Capital of Contrasts
Amman is a city of layers, where ancient ruins sit alongside buzzing neighbourhoods. You can wander through history one minute, then grab coffee or haggle at a market the next. The city sprawls across hills, so the views are constantly changing.
The Citadel and Roman Theatre
The Citadel sits on Jabal al-Qala’a, the highest hill in Amman, and gives you sweeping views of the city. Ruins from the Roman, Byzantine, and Umayyad eras are scattered around, including the Temple of Hercules and the Umayyad Palace.
The Jordan Archaeological Museum is right there, showing off artefacts from all over Jordan, even some prehistoric finds. The open spaces make it easy to wander and take your time.
Down below is the Roman Theatre, a 6,000-seat amphitheatre from the 2nd century AD. It’s still used for concerts and events, which is pretty wild if you think about it.
Both sites are close together so that you can see them in one outing.
Modern Culture and Historic Districts
Amman’s cultural life thrives in areas like Rainbow Street. This spot is packed with cafes, art galleries, and street murals.
Locals and visitors flock here in the evenings. There’s always a buzz, and you can feel the city’s creative pulse.
Nearby, Jabal Al Lweibdeh has a quieter vibe. You’ll find small museums, bookshops, and buildings with traditional architecture.
Artists and students hang out here, which gives the district a creative, slightly laid-back feel. It’s a nice break from the city’s busier corners.
Downtown markets, or souks, sell everything from spices to textiles and fresh produce. These markets sit near historic mosques and Ottoman-era buildings.
It’s a pretty wild mix of eras, all within a walkable area.
Aqaba: Gateway to the Red Sea
Aqaba sits at Jordan’s southern tip, right on the Red Sea. The warm waters and marine life here are a big draw.
You can explore colourful coral reefs and historic shipwrecks. Water activities are available year-round thanks to calm conditions and clear visibility.
Coral Reefs and Snorkeling
Aqaba’s coastline has some of the healthiest coral reefs in the region. Sites like the Japanese Gardens and Seven Sisters show off massive coral formations and a variety of fish.
Snorkelers often spot parrotfish, angelfish, and sometimes sea turtles. The reefs are close to shore, so you don’t need a boat to get there.
Public spots such as South Beach are free to enter. Still, many people choose private beach clubs for better facilities.
Places like Berenice Beach Club rent out gear and offer loungers and shade. Not a bad way to spend an afternoon between swims.
Water clarity often tops 20 meters, unless it’s windy. For safety and to protect the reefs, wear water shoes and don’t touch the coral.
Diving and Water Sports
Aqaba is a big name in diving circles, offering both shore and boat dives.
Popular sites include the Cedar Pride shipwreck, the Tristar plane wreck, and the Underwater Military Museum, where tanks and vehicles were sunk to create artificial reefs.
Dive depths range from shallow 10-meter spots for beginners to 30-meter wrecks for experienced divers. Operators like Aqaba Adventure Divers provide rentals, guides, and training.
If diving’s not your thing, you can try parasailing, jet skiing, or glass-bottom boat tours to see marine life without getting wet. The sea is usually calm, so most water sports are a breeze.
Dana Biosphere Reserve: Nature and Adventure
Dana Biosphere Reserve is Jordan’s largest protected area, spanning over 300 square kilometres. Here, you’ll find rugged mountains, deep valleys, and desert plains.
It’s not just nature. There’s a rich mix of ecological diversity and local culture. The landscapes change as you move through the reserve.
Hiking Trails and Scenic Views
The reserve has several marked trails for all fitness levels. The Dana to Feynan Trail is a favourite, stretching about 14 kilometres from the green highlands to the dry desert.
Shorter routes like the Rummana Mountain Trail offer sweeping views of sandstone cliffs and Wadi Dana. The Wadi Dana Trail follows the valley floor and is great for spring and autumn hikes.
Many trails link up with the Jordan Trail, a long-distance route that runs the length of the country. Guided hikes give you local insight into geology, plants, and history.
Spring brings wildflowers and mild temperatures. In autumn, the weather is cooler and the skies are usually clear.
Bring good shoes, water, and sun protection on any hike. The terrain can be challenging, so come prepared.
Wildlife and Conservation
Dana Biosphere Reserve is home to over 800 plant species and more than 200 kinds of birds, like the Syrian serin and Griffon vulture. Mammals such as the Nubian ibex, sand cat, and caracal live in these varied habitats.
The area protects rare and endemic species, making it a key spot for biodiversity in the Middle East. Conservation here focuses on habitat protection and sustainable tourism.
Guided wildlife tours help you spot elusive animals. Birdwatching is best early in the morning or late in the day when birds are most active.
Local Bedouin communities help with conservation by keeping up traditional practices that support the ecosystem. There’s a real blend of culture and environmental care here.
Madaba: City of Mosaics
Madaba in central Jordan is famous for its detailed Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics. The city is also a centre for early Christian art.
Visitors come for both historic religious landmarks and the city’s lively cultural scene. There’s a lot to see for art and history fans.
Ancient Mosaics and St. George’s Church
Madaba is home to the Madaba Mosaic Map, a 6th-century floor mosaic that shows the oldest known map of the Holy Land. You’ll find it inside St. George’s Church, a Greek Orthodox building constructed in the late 19th century over older ruins.
The map’s details include Jerusalem, the Dead Sea, and other biblical sites. People value it for both its artistry and historical accuracy.
Other churches and the Madaba Archaeological Park also display mosaics. These works use tiny colored stone tiles to create geometric patterns, plants, and animals.
If you’re curious about history, the city’s mosaics offer valuable insights into religious life and craftsmanship in the eastern Mediterranean over 1,400 years ago.
Cultural Heritage and Local Art
Madaba has one of Jordan’s largest Christian communities, which has helped keep religious and artistic traditions alive. Many families pass down mosaic-making skills through generations.
Workshops in the city centre let you watch artisans cut and place stone tiles by hand. Some even offer short classes where you can make your own mosaic to take home.
The Madaba Museum and local galleries show off both ancient finds and modern works inspired by traditional designs. You’ll see wall panels, tables, and decorative plates.
Markets in the old town sell handmade crafts, embroidery, ceramics, and mosaics. It’s a great place to support local artisans.
Mount Nebo: Biblical Significance
Mount Nebo stands out for its deep ties to biblical history and well-preserved archaeological sites. Here, you can see landscapes tied to ancient scripture and explore ruins that reflect centuries of religious heritage.
View of the Promised Land
From the summit, you get sweeping views of the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea, and, on clear days, even parts of Jerusalem. This is the spot where, according to the Bible, Moses looked out over the Promised Land before his death.
At over 700 meters high, the mountain offers clear panoramas that attract both religious pilgrims and history buffs. The scenery changes with the seasons, and spring or autumn is usually best for visibility and comfort.
Informational plaques and viewing platforms help you pick out key landmarks in the distance. Many guided tours explain the history and significance of what you’re seeing.
Moses Memorial and Historical Sites
At the top, the Memorial Church of Moses honours the prophet. The church stands on the remains of a 4th-century Byzantine basilica and holds some of the best-preserved mosaics in Jordan.
These mosaics show hunting scenes, animals, and geometric patterns, offering a glimpse into early Christian art. The site also has ancient walls and columns that hint at its long history as a place of worship.
A small museum displays artefacts found on Mount Nebo. There’s also a gift shop nearby selling locally made crafts and religious items.
Ajloun Castle and Umm Qais
These two sites in northern Jordan offer a direct look into different eras. One is a medieval fortress, the other, an expansive set of Greco-Roman ruins with dramatic views.
Ajloun Castle: Medieval Fortress
Ajloun Castle, or Qal’at ar-Rabad, was built in the late 12th century by a general of Saladin. Its main job was to guard the region from Crusader forces and control trade routes.
The fortress sits on a hilltop about an hour north of Amman. From its towers, you get wide views over the Jordan Valley and surrounding hills.
Inside, thick stone walls enclose vaulted rooms, narrow corridors, and defensive towers. Restored areas let you explore living quarters, storage rooms, and water cisterns that kept the garrison going during sieges.
A small museum displays pottery, coins, and weapons from different eras in Jordan’s history.
Umm Qais (Gadara): Archaeological Highlights
Umm Qais, once called Gadara, was part of the Decapolis, a group of ten Greco-Roman cities. It’s northwest of Ajloun, near the borders with Israel and Syria.
The site features a Roman theatre built from black basalt, collonaded streets, and remains of churches and baths. These structures date mainly from the 2nd century AD.
From the ruins, you can see the Sea of Galilee, the Golan Heights, and the Jordan Valley. The mix of ancient remains and natural views makes it a memorable stop.
The site’s history covers Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Jordan offers a mix of ancient ruins, desert landscapes, and lively cities. You can explore archaeological wonders, enjoy outdoor adventures, and get a taste of local traditions.
From Roman theatres to colourful souks, the country has something for history lovers, nature fans, and shoppers. There’s always something to do.
What are the top historical sites to see in Jordan?
Travellers often head to Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rock-cut architecture and the Siq pathway leading to the Treasury.
The ancient Roman city of Jerash has well-preserved collonaded streets, theatres, and temples. Mount Nebo, important in religious history, offers panoramic views and Byzantine mosaics.
Which family-friendly attractions should we visit in Jordan?
Families love floating in the Dead Sea’s salty waters or exploring Amman’s Children’s Museum.
The Aqaba coastline is excellent for safe swimming and glass-bottom boat rides. Wadi Rum offers jeep tours that work for all ages.
What are the most beautiful natural landscapes to explore in Jordan?
The desert scenery of Wadi Rum features sandstone mountains. Broad valleys stretch out in every direction, making it feel almost otherworldly.
The Dana Biosphere Reserve has hiking trails that twist through canyons and along dramatic cliffs. If you’re after something soothing, the Ma’in Hot Springs invite you in with mineral-rich waterfalls and steamy pools.
What unique cultural experiences can travellers find in Jordan?
Visitors can share tea with Bedouin hosts in Wadi Rum. You might also wander through traditional craft workshops tucked away in Madaba.
The Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts brings music, dance, and theatre to ancient ruins. It’s a lively mix of past and present and worth catching if you’re around.
Where are the best shopping destinations in Jordan for traditional goods?
The souks of Amman sell spices that fill the air, colourful textiles, and handmade jewellery. It’s easy to get swept up in the energy there.
Madaba stands out for its mosaic workshops. Down in Aqaba, markets brim with locally made soaps and crafts, perfect for souvenirs or gifts.
When is the ideal season to plan a trip to Jordan?
Spring, from March to May, usually brings mild temperatures and clear skies. It’s a great time for sightseeing if you ask me.
Autumn, between September and November, offers similar weather. You’ll find it’s comfortable for exploring.
Summer gets pretty hot, especially out in the desert. Winter’s cooler, and the north sometimes sees a bit of rain.
Jordan Awaits. Book your trip now:
Now, dear reader, has this article whetted your appetite for visiting the wonderful Kingdom of Jordan and experiencing all it has to offer?
Jordan is a unique experience you can’t put off.
Petra is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Floating in the Dead Sea is an experience like no other.
Sleeping under the stars in Wadi Rum is an experience you will never forget.
Snorkelling in the Red Sea, with its clear waters, abundant and vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life, would be another memorable experience.
And you can enjoy it all for less than a European getaway.
Jordan is calling you, so answer that call now. Yes, you say, someday I will.
Well, dear reader, don’t wait until someday. That day will never arrive. Start working on reducing your bucket list.
Check it out, now!
At least look at what it would cost you. It may be less than you think. There are packages to suit every pocket.
Book it now, and I’m confident that you won’t regret it.
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About the author:
Roy Sutton is a writer, content creator, digital entrepreneur, and international traveller. Formerly, a CEO, corporate business executive, management consultant, and electronic systems engineer with a background in telecommunications and IT. His blog aims to both inspire readers to achieve their best lives and entertain them with the humour we all crave.
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