Jordan, an Arab nation on the east bank of the Jordan River, is known for its unique historical sites and inspiring desert landscapes. 

Jordan is home to the famed archaeological site of Petra and the lunar-like valley of Wadi Rum.

But there’s much more to Jordan than Petra and Wadi Rum. Its delicious cuisine, Jordanian hospitality, and seaside resorts are among other reasons why tourists flock to Jordan.

Thanks to cheap flights from many European cities Jordan has become one of the top travel destinations lately. 

Sounds enticing? So, do you want to come and explore Jordan?

But what to see in Jordan? 

There are plenty of interesting places to visit and amazing things to do in Jordan.

To help you prepare for your trip, we have created this list of some of the best things to do in Jordan. 

7 best places to visit in Jordan

1. Petra

Have you ever dreamed of visiting a lost city? Head to Petra for this kind of experience!

Undoubtedly, Petra is the most treasured tourist attraction in Jordan. It is drawing more and more crowds every year and with good reason.

Petra is a historical and archaeological city in southern Jordan. It has a unique architecture chiseled out of pink-hued sandstone cliffs. Because of the hue of these sandstone cliffs, Petra is often called the “Rose City”.

Petra is a mysterious place. What is striking is just how little is known about its history. Archaeologists have uncovered just 15 percent of the city, but the rest is still underground.

Home to more than 800 tombs, Petra is one of the New 7 Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

2. The Dead Sea & Wadi al Mujib

A swim in the Dead Sea is an unforgettable experience. Actually, you can’t really swim in it. It is soooo salty, you float! Also, it’s impossible to sink in the Dead Sea.

Despite its name, the Dead Sea is actually a lake. And – it’s the lowest lake in the world at that! At approx. 400 meters below sea level, it’s also the lowest point on land.

The water in the lake is 10 times saltier than in an ocean, but it’s not the saltiest body of water on the planet.

Salt crystallizes along the shores of the Dead Sea, and in some places, you’ll see unique salt formations. The desolate, yet enchanting landscape makes this place even more special.

The majority of Dead Sea minerals (including calcium and magnesium) are good for our bodies.

Another great thing to do in the area is to visit Wadi Mujib. It’s a river canyon that enters the Dead Sea approximately 420 meters below sea level. 

Canyoning in Wadi al Mujib is one of the best things to do in Jordan. Climbing and swimming through the breathtaking sandstone canyons of Wadi Mujib is an unforgettable experience.

3. Jerash

Are you fascinated by ruins and ancient cities? Then Jerash is the place for you!

Inhabited since the Bronze Age (3200 BC – 1200 BC), Jerash is home to Roman ruins which are amongst the best-preserved on the planet.

The ruins of walled Greco-Roman settlement of Gerasa are located just outside the modern city. Access to the remains of this walled city is through Hadrian’s Gate or the Arch of Triumph.

The Jerash Nymphaeum, the Colonnaded Street, the Forum and the Arch of Triumph are the most popular sights in Jerash.

4. Wadi Rum

Wadi Rum, with its burnished sandstone cliffs and vivid-colored dunes, is one of the best places to visit in Jordan.

Wadi Rum is a valley cut into the sandstone and granite rock in southern Jordan. It is the largest valley in Jordan. Wadi Rum Protected Area is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Exploring the lunar-like landscape and sandstone formations in bright shades of burnished red is an out-of-this-world experience.

The area has been used as a background setting in a number of films, including “The Martian”, “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker” and “Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen”.

Bedouin traditions are still alive in Wadi Rum. To get a glimpse of the traditional way of life, stay in one of the Beduin camps scattered across the desert.

5. Amman

Amman is the capital of Jordan and a place where many tourists start their journey in Jordan.

Amman is a modern city with numerous ancient ruins — a blend of old and new.

Some of the best things to do in Amman:

• Visit the Roman Theatre which is Amman’s most spectacular ancient monument.
• Explore the ruins and visit the museum of the ancient Citadel.
• Learn more about Jordanian history at the Jordan Museum. It is the largest museum in Jordan and hosts the country’s most important archaeological findings.

6. Aqaba & the Red Sea

Aqaba is a city on the coast of the Red Sea. With a backdrop of mountains in the background and access to the Red Sea, Aqaba is among the most beautiful and most visited places in Jordan.

Aqaba is Jordan’s gateway to the Red Sea — home to some of the most beautiful underwater seascapes in the world.

Because of its pristine reefs, shipwrecks and stunning coral gardens, the Red Sea is very popular among divers.

Snorkeling and diving among fish, turtles and other sea creatures is a memorable experience and one of the best things to do in Jordan.

7. Mount Nebo

Mount Nebo is a place of pilgrimage for many. 

The mountain is considered to be where Moses saw the promised land before he died.

Even if you are not a religious person, a visit to Mount Nebo is a must. Looking out over the valley, you can witness spectacular views of the area.

Jordan travel tips

1. Visas are required by all visitors. Visas are issued on arrival at the immigration desks in the international airports and most of Jordan’s land borders.
2. Jordan Pass. Purchase a Jordan Pass before you arrive in Jordan. The Jordan Pass is a tourist pass that covers the cost of your visa and entry to most of the main attractions in Jordan.
3. When to go? The best time to visit Jordan is during March, April, and May when days are warm, and the nights are cool. It is the high season, though. If you are traveling during this time, book accommodation well in advance. Another great time to visit Jordan is mid-September – early November.
4. Read Sea. September – February is the best time to visit the Red Sea. Prices in and around Aqaba then rise accordingly.
5. Summers are super hot! Avoid traveling to Jordan during summer (June – August) when temperatures are stifling.
6. Dress modestly. Especially in the places of worship! Pack clothes that cover your knees and shoulders. Lightweight loose-fitting trousers and shirts are the best, both for male and female travelers. At the Dead Sea and Aqaba resorts and beaches, western beach clothing is acceptable.
7. Transport in Jordan. Air-conditioned buses operate on a regular schedule to popular destinations. But for flexibility rental car is the best option.