Places to Visit in Jordan

Arguably the most famous site in Jordan, Petra is an ancient Nabatean city carved into the rose-red cliffs of southern Jordan.

Known as the “Rose City” due to the color of the stone, Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

The Treasury (Al-Khazneh) is the most iconic landmark, but the city also boasts other remarkable structures, including the Monastery (Ad-Deir) and the Roman-style theater.

It’s recommended to spend a full day or more exploring Petra’s many trails and hidden gems.

Known as the “Valley of the Moon,” Wadi Rum is a breathtaking desert landscape of towering sandstone mountains, narrow canyons, and striking rock formations. This otherworldly environment has been the backdrop for several films, including Lawrence of Arabia and The Martian.

Visitors can explore Wadi Rum by jeep, camel, or on foot, and experience the tranquility of the desert by staying overnight in a traditional Bedouin camp under the stars. It’s an ideal destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers

The Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth, is famous for its ultra-salty water that allows you to float effortlessly.

The high salt concentration and mineral-rich mud also make the Dead Sea an excellent place for skin treatments and relaxation.

While the Dead Sea’s shores offer beach resorts and wellness spas, the surrounding area is rich in history, including the biblical site of Mount Nebo, from where Moses is said to have viewed the Promised Land before his death.

Located just north of Amman, Jerash is one of the best-preserved Roman cities outside of Italy.

The ancient city boasts impressive ruins, including the Oval Plaza, the Temple of Artemis, the Hadrian’s Arch, and the Roman Theater, which is still used for performances today.

Jerash offers visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of Roman civilization and is a must-see for history buffs.

Jordan’s capital, Amman, is a modern city with a rich history.

It’s a blend of ancient ruins and contemporary culture.

Top sites include the Amman Citadel, which offers panoramic views of the city, and the Roman Theater, which dates back to the 2nd century AD.

The Royal Automobile Museum and the Jordan Museum are excellent for those interested in learning more about the country’s heritage.

The bustling Rainbow Street is great for shopping, dining, and people-watching.

Jordan’s only coastal city, Aqaba, is located on the Red Sea and offers a mix of relaxation and adventure.

Aqaba is famous for its vibrant coral reefs, making it an ideal spot for diving and snorkeling.

The nearby Aqaba Marine Park is home to diverse marine life, while the city itself offers beaches, resorts, and a laid-back atmosphere.

Aqaba is also a gateway to visit Petra from the south.

Located near Madaba, Mount Nebo holds religious significance as the place where Moses is said to have seen the Promised Land before his death.

The site offers sweeping views over the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea, and even Jerusalem on clear days.

The Moses Memorial Church on the mount houses ancient mosaics and is a popular pilgrimage site for Christians.

Madaba, known as the “City of Mosaics,” is famous for its incredible Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics, most notably the Madaba Map, a 6th-century mosaic that is the oldest surviving map of the Holy Land.

The town is a great place to explore ancient Christian art, and it’s located near Mount Nebo, making it easy to visit both in one trip.

For nature lovers and adventure seekers, Wadi Mujib is a must-visit. Known as the “Jordanian Grand Canyon,” this deep valley is home to stunning landscapes and offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, canyoning, and water trails.

The Mujib Nature Reserve is a UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve, and the Mujib Gorge is especially popular for its river trail, where visitors can hike through water.

Located on the banks of the Jordan River, the Baptism Site is believed to be the location where John the Baptist baptized Jesus.

This sacred site is significant for Christians and is a popular pilgrimage destination. Visitors can explore the ancient church ruins, baptismal pools, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere by the river.

The Dana Biosphere Reserve is Jordan’s largest nature reserve and a haven for hiking, wildlife watching, and eco-tourism. It’s home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, and its rugged landscapes range from sandstone cliffs to deep valleys.

There are several well-marked hiking trails, and visitors can stay in eco-lodges or camp under the stars.

Located in southern Jordan, Al-Karak Castle is a large Crusader-era fortress that offers a glimpse into the region’s medieval history.

The castle was built in the 12th century and is a key historical site in the King’s Highway region. Visitors can explore the castle’s chambers, towers, and extensive underground passages while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Similar to Al-Karak, Shobak Castle is another Crusader-era fortress located along the King’s Highway.

Although less well-preserved than Karak, it’s still a fascinating place to visit, with ruins that date back to the 12th century. The castle sits atop a hill and offers stunning views of the desert landscape.

The castle commands views of the Jordan Valley and three wadis leading into it, making it an important strategic link in the defensive chain against the Crusaders and a counterpoint to the Crusader Belvoir Fort on the Sea of Galilee in present-day Israel and the Palestinian Territories.

Located in the far north of Jordan, Umm Qais is an ancient Greco-Roman site with stunning views over the Sea of Galilee and the Golan Heights.

Visitors can explore the ruins of a Roman city, including a theater, basilica, and colonnaded street, while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding area.

It’s a lesser-known gem that offers a peaceful and scenic atmosphere.