Jordan is an incredible destination for travelers of all kinds, offering a variety of attractions and activities. From the ancient city of Petra to the natural beauty of Mount Nebo. Visitors can explore Jordan’s fascinating history, culture, and landscapes. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Jordan has it all!
The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is a country with an abundance of cultural and historical sites, breathtaking natural beauty, and plenty of adventure. From the ancient ruins of Petra to the modernity of Amman. There is something for everyone in this Middle Eastern wonderland.
Here are 18 of the best places to visit in Jordan that you shouldn’t miss on your next visit to this ancient land. Get ready for an unforgettable experience!
1. Petra
A historical and archaeological city in southern Jordan. It is renowned for its rock-cut architecture and water conduit system. Established possibly as early as 312 BC as the capital city of the Nabataean Kingdom, it was an important crossroads between Arabia, Egypt, and Syria.
Its structures are carved into pink sandstone cliffs and include the iconic treasury, temples, tombs, sacrificial altars, streets, and water channels. Petra served as an important trading hub in antiquity and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.
Address: 28 Wadi Mousa – Jordan
Phone: +962 3 215 6060
Email: [email protected]
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
2. Wadi Rum
A desert valley in southern Jordan, located within the larger Jordanian Desert. It is known for its red sandstone mountains and canyons, as well as for its ancient inscriptions and monasteries.
This protected area is especially popular with hikers, climbers, photographers, and campers. In fact, it has been used as a backdrop for many films, most famously Lawrence of Arabia. Wadi Rum was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011.
Address: قرية وادي رم, Jordan
Phone: +962 3 209 0600
Email: [email protected]
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
3. Jerash
An ancient city in northern Jordan, located about 48 km north of Amman. It is famous for its well-preserved ruins of the Greco-Roman era, making it one of the largest and most complete sites of Roman architecture in the world.
Jerash’s structures include a colonnaded street, a forum, temples, theaters, and baths. The city’s landmark is the Triumphal Arch of Hadrian, which dates back to 129 AD. Jerash was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002.
Navigate here to see the location’s actual view.
4. Amman
The capital and most populous city of Jordan. It is a modern metropolis that mixes old-world charm with contemporary architecture. Its downtown area features several Roman ruins, such as columns from the Temple of Hercules and the Odeon Theater.
Other attractions include Citadel Hill, Jabal al-Lweibdeh, and King Abdullah Mosque. Amman is a major cultural and economic hub in the Middle East, with many universities, companies, and shopping centers.
Navigate here to see the location’s actual view.
5. Dead Sea
A salt lake located in the Jordan Rift Valley, between Israel and Jordan. It is known for its high salinity and mineral-rich mud, which are said to have healing properties. The Dead Sea has long been associated with spiritual practices from different religions, including Judaism and Christianity.
Visitors can take part in activities such as swimming, floating, yoga, and kayaking. There are also many resorts around the Dead Sea that offer amenities such as beauty treatments and spa facilities.
Navigate here to see the location’s actual view.
6. Madaba
An ancient city located in central Jordan. It has been inhabited since the Bronze Age and is known for its Byzantine mosaics, particularly the 6th century AD Madaba Map. This map depicts Jerusalem and other Biblical sites in great detail and was discovered on the floor of a Greek Orthodox Church in 1884.
Madaba also features several religious sites, such as the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George and the Roman-Byzantine Church of the Virgin Mary. Furthermore, Madaba is home to a vibrant market with many craft shops that offer handmade souvenirs. It was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2019.
Navigate here to see the location’s actual view.
7. Aqaba
A coastal city located in southern Jordan, at the northern tip of the Red Sea. It is known for its clear waters and coral reefs, which make it an ideal destination for snorkeling and diving.
Aqaba also features several historical sites dating back to the Hellenistic times, such as Ayla, the ancient port city. Additionally, there are many modern attractions in Aqaba, such as beaches and resorts, golf courses and water parks.
Navigate here to see the location’s actual view.
8. Dana Biosphere Reserve
A protected area in central Jordan. It is part of the larger Great Rift Valley, stretching from Syria to Mozambique. The reserve includes five ecological zones and many different species of plants and animals.
Activities available include hiking, bird watching, and camping. Visitors can also stay at one of the lodges located in the reserve and take part in guided tours. The Dana Biosphere Reserve was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011.
Address: محمية ضانا, Dana, Jordan
Hours Open: Sunday – Saturday 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Phone: +962 7 9091 1063
9. Karak Castle
A Crusader castle located in southern Jordan. It was built by the Knights Hospitaller during the 12th century and later served as the headquarters of Izz ad-Din Usama, ruler of the region in the 13th century.
The castle’s main features include its tall towers, inner courtyards, and Islamic-style decorations. Karak Castle is a popular tourist destination and was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2004.
Address: شارع القلعة الكرك, Kerak 61110, Jordan
Opening Hours:
- Saturday – Monday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday – Friday 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Phone: +962 6 567 8295
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
10. Baptism Site of Jesus Christ (Bethany Beyond the Jordan)
Also known as Bethany Beyond the Jordan, is a holy site located in southern Jordan. It marks the place where John the Baptist is believed to have baptized Jesus Christ. The site includes ruins from Byzantine and Islamic times, such as churches and shrines.
Visitors can take part in guided tours and visit the nearby Wadi Al-Kharrar, where Jesus and his disciples are said to have crossed the Jordan River. The Baptism Site of Jesus Christ was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015.
Address: RHP2+V4M, Juwafat al-Kafrayn, Jordan
Hours Open: Sunday – Saturday 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Phone: +962 79082 5345 / +962 79595 8960
Email: [email protected] / [email protected]
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
11. Mount Nebo
A mountain located in western Jordan. It is believed to be the place where Moses saw the Promised Land for the first time, making it one of the most important religious sites in Christianity.
On its summit stands a Byzantine-era church and a commemorative monument dedicated to Moses. Mount Nebo offers great views of the Dead Sea, the Jordan Valley, and Jerusalem. It was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2011.
Navigate here to see the location’s actual view.
12. Wadi Mujib Nature Reserve
A protected area in southern Jordan. It is known for its canyons, gorges, and seasonal waterfalls. The reserve also features several species of birds, mammals, and reptiles.
Activities available include swimming, hiking, rappelling, and canyoning. Wadi Mujib has been recognized as a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance since 2015.
Navigate here to see the location’s actual view.
13. Azraq Wetland Reserve
The Azraq Wetland Reserve is a protected area located in eastern Jordan. It features several species of birds, mammals, and reptiles. The reserve is especially known for its population of endangered Syrian zebras, as well as its conservation efforts to protect other endangered species such as the common ostrich and white-headed duck. Visitors can take part in guided tours and visit the nearby Azraq Oasis, which contains palm trees and other vegetation.
Address: الأزرق الجنوبي, Azraq, Jordan
Hours Open: Sunday – Saturday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Phone: +962 5 383 5017
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
14. The King’s Highway
One of the most historic routes in Jordan. It has been used since ancient times and is mentioned in the Bible. The King’s Highway stretches from Aqaba to Damascus, passing through several important sites such as Petra, Madaba, and Kerak Castle.
The highway also passes along several other interesting places such as Dana Biosphere Reserve, Wadi Mujib Nature Reserve, and Azraq Wetland Reserve. Visitors can take part in guided tours of the King’s Highway to learn about its history and explore its natural beauty.
Navigate here to see the location’s actual view.
15. Umm Qais
A town located in northern Jordan. It features several ruins from the Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine times, such as an amphitheater and the Temple of Zeus. Umm Qais is also known for its views of Lake Tiberias, the Golan Heights and Mount Hermon. The town has recently become a popular tourist destination due to its archaeological sites and stunning scenery.
Navigate here to see the location’s actual view.
16. Shobak Castle
A Crusader castle located in southern Jordan. It was built by the Knights Hospitaller during the 12th century and later served as the headquarters of Izz ad-Din Usama, ruler of the region in the 13th century.
The castle’s main features include its tall towers, inner courtyards and Islamic-style decorations. Shobak Castle is a popular tourist attraction and was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2004.
Address: GHJ6+H84, Shobak, Jordan
Opening Hours:
- Monday – Tuesday 24 hours
- Wednesday – Sunday 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
17. Amman Citadel
An archaeological site located in the center of Jordan’s capital city. It contains ruins from different civilizations, such as the Umayyad and Byzantine eras. The citadel also includes several religious sites, such as the Temple of Hercules, the Great Mosque and the Roman Theatre. Additionally, it offers great views of Amman and its surroundings. The Amman Citadel was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1985.
Address: K. Ali Ben Al-Hussein St. 146, Amman, Jordan
Hours Open: Sunday – Saturday 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Phone: +962 6 463 8795
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
18. Ajloun Castle
A fortress located in northern Jordan. It was built by the Ayyubids in the 12th century and later served as a base for Izz ad-Din Usama, ruler of the region. The castle’s main features include its tall towers, inner courtyards and Islamic-style decorations. Visitors can take part in guided tours and enjoy the views of Ajloun from its summit.
Address: قلعة عجلون, Ajloun, Jordan
Hours Open: Sunday – Saturday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Phone: +1 (929) 323 2112
Email: [email protected]
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
In conclusion
Jordan is a diverse country with an abundance of attractions and activities to explore. From the historical sites of Petra and Jerash to the natural beauty of Wadi Mujib Nature Reserve and Mount Nebo, there is something for everyone in this amazing country.
Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Jordan has it all. So, take the opportunity to visit this beautiful country and discover its hidden gems!
