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Places to Visit in Jordan: Complete Guide

TeamAckoFeb 15, 2024

Jordan is a beautiful country in the heart of the Middle East. It has a strategic location at the crossroads of Asia, Africa, and Europe, so you can imagine it's had some serious cultural mashups over the centuries. It’s a country full of interesting history and architecture, with influences from the various civilizations that have called this land home. Petra resembles a scene from an Indiana Jones film, and then there is Wadi Rum, a place that is so mind-bogglingly unique that it could be on another planet. Wadi Rum looks out of this world. No wonder they shot the movie Martian here and made it look like planet Mars.

Jordan’s got something for everyone – history buffs, thrill-seekers, and nature lovers. Plus, the people here are super welcoming and hospitable. So, if you're into history, adventure, or just soaking up gorgeous scenery, Jordan's got you covered. There are many amazing places to visit in Jordan. Let's take you on a virtual tour of Jordan and explore some of the best places to visit in Jordan.

Contents

List of places to visit in Jordan
Conclusion

List of places to visit in Jordan

Jordan has something to offer all its visitors. If you want to plan to visit Jordan, then here is our list of places to visit in Jordan.

Petra

Petra is a very special place in Jordan, and no visit to Jordan is complete without exploring this ancient city. It's like a city carved into the rocks! People often call it the "Rose City" because of the pinkish hue of the rock from which it was carved. Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. This archaeological marvel is really old and dates back to the 4th century BC. It was the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom.

The complex is huge, so it is recommended that you visit it for a minimum of two days. When you visit Petra, you'll walk through a narrow path called the Siq. It's like a magical entrance to the city. At the end of the Siq, you'll see the famous Treasury building (Al-Khazneh). That’s the building you see all over social media. It’s incredibly beautiful, and you might also recognise it from movies like Indiana Jones.

Inside Petra, there are many more breathtaking buildings carved into the rocks. You can explore temples, tombs, and even a well-preserved Roman-style theatre. If you're up for a hike, don't miss the monastery (Ad Deir). It's a bit of a climb, but the panoramic views of the surrounding desert are worth the climb.

Ticket Prices

Children under 12 years – Free entry
Locals, residents, and students in Jordan – 1 JOR OR INR 117

If you are staying in Jordan for a minimum of one night, you are eligible to buy an accommodated visitor pass

Overnight or accommodated visitor 1-day pass – 50 JOD or INR 5850
Overnight or accommodated visitor 2-day pass – 55 JOD or INR 6500
Overnight or accommodated visitor 3-day pass – 60 JOD OR INR 7000

If you are not staying overnight in Jordan, then you have to buy a visitor or non-accommodated visitor pass

1-Day Visitor or Non-accommodated Visitor – 90 JOD or INR 10500

Timings

6:00 am – 6:00 pm during the summer

6:00 am – 4:00 pm during the winter

Distance of Petra from Amman

232 km

Best Time To Visit Petra

The best time to visit Petra is during the cooler months of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is pleasant for exploring the archaeological site.

Major Sites To Visit In Petra

Al-Khazneh (The Treasury)
Monastery (Ad-Deir)
Royal Tombs
Siq
Roman Theatre
Street of Facades
High Place of Sacrifice
Petra Archaeological Museum

Best ways to reach Petra from Amman

By Car: It takes about 3-4 hours to drive, the route is well-marked, and you can use GPS for navigation.
By Bus: Several bus companies operate daily services from Amman's Abdali Bus Station to Petra. The journey takes around 3-4 hours.
By Tour: Many tour operators in Amman offer guided tours to Petra. This option includes transportation, a guide, and sometimes additional stops at other attractions along the way.

Also Read: Best time to visit Jordan

Wadi Rum

Wadi Rum is like a desert from another planet. It's often called the Valley of the Moon because it looks so strange and unique. It's a protected desert in the south of Jordan. The landscape is full of tall red sandstone mountains, wide dunes, and deep canyons. Its unique topography made it the perfect location to showcase the planet Mars in the movie - The Martian.

One of the best ways to explore Wadi Rum is by taking a Jeep tour. You'll ride over the sandy hills and visit ancient drawings on the rocks. And don't forget to watch the sunset—it's breathtaking! For a more immersive experience, consider camping under the starlit desert sky in traditional Bedouin-style tents. Complete your visit to Wade Rum with delicious Jordanian cuisine and storytelling around a campfire.

Ticket Prices

Children under 12 years – Free entry
Adults - 5 JOD or INR 580
Entry fee for 4WD cars - 25 JOD or INR 2900
Entry fee for normal cars - Free entry

Timings

Open 24 hours

Distance of Wadi Rum from Amman

308 km

Best Time To Visit Wadi Rum

The best time to visit Wadi Rum is during the cooler months of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). The weather is pleasant for outdoor activities, so enjoy the stunning desert landscapes.

Major sites to visit in Wadi Rum

Lawrence's Spring (Ain Lawrence)
Khazali Canyon
The Seven Pillars of Wisdom
Um Fruth Rock Bridge
Burdah Rock Bridge
Wadi Rum Village

Best ways to reach Wadi Rum from Amman

By Car: The drive from Amman to Wadi Rum takes about 4-5 hours. Take the Desert Highway (Route 15) southward, and then follow signs to Wadi Rum.
By Bus: JETT (Jordan Express Tourist Transportation) operates a daily bus service from Amman to Wadi Rum. The bus departs from Abdali Bus Station in Amman and takes around 5-6 hours to reach Wadi Rum Visitor Centre.
By Tour: Many tour operators in Amman offer guided tours to Wadi Rum, which can be a convenient option.

Amman

Amman, Jordan's capital city, is a lively place with a mix of old and new. It's like a city of contrasts. While modern skyscrapers dominate the skyline, you'll also find historical treasures and vibrant markets within its ancient core.

One must-visit spot in Amman is the Citadel. It's on a hill, and from there, you can see the whole city. You'll find old ruins like the Temple of Hercules and the Umayyad Palace.

The Roman Theatre is another cool place in Amman. It's a huge amphitheatre where about six thousand people could watch shows at a time.

The bustling streets of downtown Amman are filled with traditional souks, aromatic spice shops, and mouth-watering street food stalls. Don’t forget to sample some of the Jordanian specialties like falafel and shawarma when in Amman.

Best Time To Visit Amman

The best time to visit Amman is during the cooler months of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).

Major sites to visit in Amman

Amman Citadel (Jabal al-Qala'a)
Roman Theatre
Rainbow Street
Jordan Museum
Royal Automobile Museum
King Abdullah Mosque
Downtown Amman (Al-Balad)
Amman Beach
Martyrs' Memorial and Park
Souk Jara
Darat al-Funun

The Dead Sea

The Dead Sea is like no other place on Earth. Located at Earth's lowest point, it has a high concentration of salt. It is super salty, so when you swim, you float effortlessly on the water! People love it for its unique feeling. It's impossible to drown in the Dead Sea. So you can enjoy it even if you can’t swim.

But that's not all. The mud in the Dead Sea is good for your skin and is rich in minerals like magnesium and potassium. Mud therapy, anyone! Many resorts offer mud treatments and relaxing spa experiences. And while you're there, you can enjoy the beautiful views of the Dead Sea and the surrounding mountains. Look for the Moab Mountains to the east and the Judean Desert to the west.

Ticket Prices

20 - 40 JOD (INR 2300 - 4600) per person for hotel day pass

Timings

6.30 am till sunset

Distance of the Dead Sea from Amman

60 km

Best Time To Visit the Dead Sea

The best time to visit the Dead Sea is during the cooler months of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).

Major sites to visit in the Dead Sea

Dead Sea Beaches
Masada National Park
Ein Gedi Nature Reserve
Qumran Caves
Dead Sea Panoramic Complex
Spa and Wellness Centres
Dead Sea Museum
Zara Cliff

Best ways to reach the Dead Sea from Amman

By Car: The journey takes around 45 minutes to an hour. You can take the Dead Sea Highway (Route 65) directly to the Dead Sea.
By Taxi: You can hire a taxi for a one-way or return trip to the Dead Sea.
By Bus: Public buses operate between Amman and the towns of Sweimah and Ein Bokek.
By Tour: The most convenient option for tourists is to opt for a day trip. Most tours include transportation, access to a resort or beach, and sometimes meals and spa treatments.

Jerash

Travel a little north of Jordan and discover this Roman archaeological gem. Jerash is a city that takes you back in time to ancient Rome. It's one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world. You'll find streets lined with columns, theatres, temples, and arches. No wonder it is often referred to as the Pompeii of the East.

The Oval Plaza in Jerash is impressive, and the Temple of Artemis is a sight to behold, showcasing the city's former splendour. You can explore the city's history by wandering through its ancient alleyways. Sometimes, they even reenact Roman life, which is fun to watch.

Ticket Prices

For Locals 0.5 JOD or INR 60
For Foreigners 10 JOD or INR 1170
Jerash Sound & Light Programme tickets for locals are 0.25 JOD or INR 30
Jerash Sound & Light Programme tickets for foreigners 2 JOD or INR 230

Timings

Winter months (November to April): 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Summer months: 8:00 am - 6:30 pm
April and May: 8:00 am - 5:30 pm
Ramadan month: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

Distance of Jerash from Amman

55 km

Best Time To Visit Jerash

The best time to visit Jerash is during the spring months, from March to May.

Major sites to visit in Jerash

Hadrian’s Gate
Hippodrome
Oval Plaza (Forum)
South Theatre
Zeus Temple (Jupiter Temple)
Temple of Artemis (Artemis Temple)
Byzantine Churches
North Theatre
Nymphaeum
Colonnaded Street

Best ways to reach Jerash from Amman

By Car: The journey takes about 45 minutes to an hour via Route 35. The road is well-maintained and well-marked.
By Bus: Public buses operated by the Jordanian Transport Authority (JTA), run between Amman and Jerash. You can catch a bus from the North Terminal in Amman to Jerash. The journey takes around 1 to 1.5 hours.
By Tour: Many tour operators in Amman offer guided day trips to Jerash, often combined with visits to other nearby attractions like Ajloun Castle or Umm Qais.

Aqaba

Aqaba is Jordan's only coastal city by the Red Sea. If you love the sea and sun, then this is the place for you. Located on the northern tip of the Red Sea, Aqaba boasts pristine beaches and a thriving underwater world. The Red Sea is known for its colourful coral reefs and amazing marine life.

It is a paradise for divers and snorkelers. You can go snorkelling and see fish and corals up close. If you're a scuba diver, there are even shipwrecks (Cedar Pride) to explore! Aqaba's mild climate and luxurious resorts provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation after a day of aquatic exploration.

Distance of Aqaba from Amman

290 km

Best Time To Visit Aqaba

The peak seasons to visit Aqaba are April to June and September to November.

Major sites to visit in Aqaba

Aqaba Marine Park
Aqaba Fort (Aqaba Castle)
Aqaba Archaeological Museum
South Beach
Ayla Oasis
The Coral Garden
Aqaba Bird Observatory
Aqaba Aquarium
Aqaba Flagpole
Marsa Zayed
Dhow Cruises
Sharif Hussein Bin Ali Mosque

Best ways to reach Aqaba from Amman

By Car: The journey takes about 4-5 hours via the Desert Highway (Route 15). The road is well-maintained and offers scenic views.
By Bus: Public buses and private bus companies operate daily services from Amman to Aqaba. The bus journey takes around 4-5 hours.
By Domestic Flight: You can fly from Amman to Aqaba via King Hussein International Airport. The flight takes approximately 1 hour, and several airlines operate this route

Madaba

Madaba is famous for its mosaics. Visit this charming town located in the south of Amman. It's like an open-air museum of art! These are beautiful pictures made by putting small coloured tiles together. The most famous mosaic in Madaba is the Madaba Map. It is a 6th-century mosaic that is the oldest surviving map of the Holy Land. You can see this special intricate mosaic in the Saint George Church. If you are a history enthusiast, you can’t miss seeing this masterpiece in Jordan.

In addition to the Madaba Map, the town is filled with other beautifully preserved mosaics, including those in private homes and public buildings. You can explore the Archaeological Park, which contains a wealth of mosaics unearthed during excavations. Madaba's rich history and artistic heritage make it a fascinating stop for those interested in ancient art and culture.

Ticket Prices

Madaba Archaeological Park & Museum tickets for locals are 0.25 JOD or INR 30

Madaba Archaeological Park & Museum for forgeries 3 JOD OR INR 350

Timings

Winter months (November to April): 8:00 am - 4:00 pm

Summer months: 8:00 am - 6:30 pm

April and May: 8:00 am - 5:30 pm

Ramadan month: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

Distance of Madaba from Amman

31 km

Best Time To Visit Madaba

The best time to visit Madaba is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).

Major sites to visit in Madaba

Saint George's Church
Madaba Archaeological Park
Madaba Mosaic School
Madaba Visitors Centre
Madaba's Historic Centre
Madaba Archaeological Museum
Madaba Plains Project
The Apostles Church (Madaba Church)

Best ways to reach Madaba from Amman

By Car: The journey takes about 30-40 minutes via the Airport Road (Route 35) or the Desert Highway (Route 15).
By Bus: Public buses depart from the Mujaharin Bus Station in Amman and take approximately 45 minutes to an hour to reach Madaba.
By Shared Minibus (Service Taxi): You can find them at Abdali Bus Station or other transportation hubs.
By Tour: Some tour operators offer day trips to Madaba, often combined with visits to other nearby attractions like Mount Nebo or the Dead Sea.

Mount Nebo

Mount Nebo is a place that holds immense significance in religious history. According to stories, it's where Moses saw the Promised Land before he passed away. This biblical connection makes Mount Nebo a sacred site for Christians and Jews.

When you visit Mount Nebo, you'll enjoy the amazing panoramic view. You can see the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea, and far-off hills. The Memorial Church of Moses, built atop the mountain, houses a collection of mosaics that depict scenes from the Bible. The serene atmosphere and historical importance of Mount Nebo make it a place of reflection and contemplation.

Ticket Prices

Mount Nebo tickets for locals are 0.25 JOD or INR 30

Mount Nebo for forgeries 3 JOD OR INR 350

Timings

April to October: 5:00 am - 7:00 pm

November to March: 7:00 am - 7:00 pm

Distance of Mount Nebo from Amman

37 km

Best Time To Visit Mount Nebo

Visit Mount Nebo between May and October, when the weather is pleasant outdoors, and the humidity levels are moderate. Humid.

Major sites to visit in Mount Nebo

Moses Memorial Church
Viewpoint Terrace
Serpentine Cross
Mount Nebo Archaeological Park
Museum
St. John the Baptist Church

Best ways to reach Mount Nebo from Amman

By Car: The journey takes about 30-40 minutes via the Airport Road (Route 35) and Route 828.
By Tour: Guided tours from Amman to Mount Nebo, often combined with visits to other nearby attractions like Madaba or the Dead Sea. Tours mostly include transportation, guided services, and a structured itinerary.
By Shared Minibus (Service Taxi): You can find them at Abdali Bus Station or other transportation hubs.

Dana Biosphere Reserve

The Dana Biosphere Reserve is a dream for nature lovers and eco-conscious travellers. It's a hidden gem in the southern part of Jordan and has many different types of rugged landscapes. This protected area spans diverse ecosystems, from rocky mountains to desert plains and lush valleys.

The Dana Reserve offers numerous hiking trails for you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region. You can spot all kinds of animals, like ibex, hyenas, and eagles. There are also rare plants to discover. Dana Village, perched on the edge of the reserve, offers a glimpse into traditional Bedouin life and provides an ideal base for exploring the area.

Ticket Prices

Dana Biosphere Reserve for locals 2 JOD or INR 235

Dana Biosphere Reserve for residents 5 JOD or INR 590

Dana Biosphere Reserve for forgeries 10 JOD OR INR 1170

Timings

8:00 am to 3:00 pm

Distance of Dana Biosphere Reserve from Amman

190 km

Best Time To Visit Dana Biosphere Reserve

The best time to visit Dana Biosphere Reserve is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).

Major sites to visit in Dana Biosphere Reserve

Dana Village
Dana Nature Reserve Visitor Centre
Dana Village Guesthouses
Dana Valley
Rummana Campsite
Wadi Ghuweir
Feynan Eco Lodge
Ancient Ruins

Best ways to reach Dana Biosphere Reserve from Amman

By Car: The journey takes approximately 3.5 to 4.5 hours, depending on the route you take. The most common route is via the Desert Highway (Route 15), which offers scenic views along the way.
By Bus: Take a public bus to Tafilah, a nearby city, and then arrange for local transportation to the reserve.
By Tour: Some tour operators in Amman offer guided tours to the Dana Biosphere Reserve.
By Shared Minibus (Service Taxi): Take a shared minibus for Tafilah or Dana Village and then separate transport for the reserve.

The Desert Castles

Jordan's Desert Castles, scattered across the eastern desert, provide a fascinating window into the country's Umayyad architectural heritage. These ancient structures served as hunting lodges, caravanserais, and agricultural complexes during the Umayyad period in the 7th and 8th centuries.

Some of the most notable desert castles include Qasr Amra, known for its exquisite frescoes and bathhouse, and Qasr Kharana, a massive fortress-like structure with mysterious origins. Exploring these castles offers insight into the historical and cultural richness of Jordan and its role as a crossroads for ancient civilizations.

Ticket Prices

The Desert Castles tickets for locals are 0.25 JOD or INR 30
The Desert Castles tickets for forgeries are 3 JOD OR INR 350

Timings

Winter months (November to April): 8:00 am - 4:00 pm

Summer months: 8:00 am - 6:30 pm

April and May: 8:00 am - 5:30 pm

Ramadan month: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

Distance of the Desert Castles from Amman

100 km

Best Time To Visit the Desert Castles

To avoid the heat, the best time to visit is during the winter months.

Major sites to visit in the Desert Castles

Qasr Amra
Qasr Kharana
Qasr Azraq
Qasr Mushatta
Qasr Hallabat
Qasr Tuba
Qasr Al-Muwaqqar
Qasr Al-Hallabat
Qasr Hammam As-Sarh
Qusayr Amra Archaeological Site

Best ways to reach the Desert Castles from Amman

By Car: The desert castles are scattered across the desert landscape. So plan your route and rent a car or hire a private driver for the trip.
By Tour: Some tour operators in Amman offer guided tours to the Desert Castles.

Conclusion

Jordan is like a magical mix of old and new, nature and culture. You've got the ancient vibes in Petra, the chill vibes by the Dead Sea, and the jaw-dropping scenes in Wadi Rum. This place is full of surprises, with a crazy history and friendly locals. Whether you're an adventure junkie, a history nerd, a nature geek, or just up for something different, Jordan's a destination to visit. So, if you are planning to visit Jordan, then get ready for an epic adventure through the heart of the Middle East. Jordan is waiting for you to discover its wonders!

Before you leave for Jordan, don’t forget to buy travel insurance online. ACKO has got your back, right from medical emergencies to travel mishaps. Enjoy Jordan without any worries, knowing your trip is insured!

Below are some of the frequently asked Questions about Places to Visit in Jordan

What are the must-visit places to visit in Jordan?

Petra, Wadi Rum, the Dead Sea, Amman, Jerash, and Aqaba are some of the must-visit places to visit in Jordan.

Is Petra worth visiting?

Yes, Petra is a must-visit place when in Jordan. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic archaeological sites globally.

I don’t know how to swim; can I float in the Dead Sea?

Yes, you can effortlessly float in the Dead Sea due to its high salt concentration. It's a unique and buoyant experience that doesn’t require swimming skills.