Attractions and Places To See in Jordan - Top 20

Beyond Petra, Jordan offers a wealth of historical sites. Explore the remarkably preserved Roman city of Jerash, featuring temples, an arch, and a colonnade. The Amman Citadel provides panoramic views of the capital and houses ancient ruins like the Temple of Hercules. You can also visit Mount Nebo, believed to be where Moses saw the Promised Land, and the ancient mosaics of Madaba.

Jordan is home to diverse natural wonders. Experience the unique sensation of floating effortlessly in the hypersaline waters of the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth. Discover the stunning desert landscapes of Wadi Rum, known as the 'Valley of the Moon,' perfect for jeep safaris and stargazing. For adventure, explore the canyons of Wadi Mujib, or visit the Dana Biosphere Reserve for diverse ecosystems and hiking opportunities.

Yes, Jordan offers numerous outdoor activities. You can find various hiking trails, from easy to difficult, across the country. For example, near Petra, there are challenging hikes like the Petra Theater – Al-Deir (The Monastery) loop. The Dana Biosphere Reserve is also a popular hiking destination. For those interested in gravel biking, there are routes like the Ein Moda Natural Spring – Basalt Canyon Waterfall loop. You can also find waterfall hikes, such as those in the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve.

Jordan holds several important religious sites. Mount Nebo is revered as the place where Moses viewed the Promised Land and features a church with ancient mosaics. Bethany Beyond the Jordan (Al-Maghtas) is believed to be the site of Jesus' baptism by John the Baptist. In Madaba, St. George's Church houses the famous Madaba Map, an ancient mosaic map of the Holy Land.

The best time to visit Jordan is generally during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is pleasant, with comfortable temperatures for exploring historical sites like Petra and Jerash, and for outdoor activities in Wadi Rum or Dana. Summers can be very hot, especially in desert areas, while winters can be cool with occasional rain.

Many of Jordan's attractions can be enjoyed by families. The historical site of Jerash, with its grand Roman ruins including Hadrian's Arch, offers an engaging experience for all ages. Floating in the Dead Sea is a unique and fun activity for families. Exploring Wadi Rum on a jeep safari also provides an exciting adventure for children and adults alike.

Public transport to major attractions like Petra and Jerash is available, often via buses from Amman. However, within sites like Petra, you'll primarily explore on foot, or with options like donkeys or golf carts for specific sections. Parking is generally available at visitor centers for these sites. For Wadi Rum, public transport from Amman is possible, and parking is available at the visitor center before entering the protected area, where local Bedouin guides provide transport.

For unique cultural experiences, consider visiting the Desert Castles, such as Qasr Amra, which showcase early Islamic art and architecture. Staying in a Bedouin camp in Wadi Rum offers an immersive experience into traditional desert life and hospitality. Exploring the mosaic city of Madaba provides insight into ancient craftsmanship and religious history. The King Abdullah I Mosque in Amman is also a significant modern cultural landmark.

Jordan offers several breathtaking viewpoints. The Amman Citadel provides panoramic views of the capital city. From Mount Nebo, you can see vast landscapes, including the Jordan Valley and, on a clear day, parts of the Dead Sea and the West Bank. Within Petra, viewpoints above Al-Deir (The Monastery) offer stunning perspectives of the ancient city and surrounding mountains. Wadi Rum also features numerous elevated spots for dramatic desert vistas.

The Siq is a narrow, 1.2 km long gorge that serves as the main entrance to the ancient city of Petra. This dramatic natural formation, carved into sandstone, builds anticipation as you walk through it. At its end, the iconic facade of Al-Khazneh (The Treasury) dramatically appears, making the journey through The Siq an integral part of the Petra experience.

Yes, Jordan has several hidden gems. The Dana Biosphere Reserve, while known for hiking, is less frequented than Petra or Wadi Rum, offering a tranquil natural escape. Umm el-Jimal is an ancient archaeological site with well-preserved structures from various periods, providing a glimpse into nearly 2000 years of history away from the main tourist routes. The Azraq Wetland Reserve is a unique oasis in the eastern desert, crucial for migratory birds and a peaceful spot for nature lovers.

Near major attractions like Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea, you'll find a range of accommodation and dining options. Petra (Wadi Musa) offers hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants catering to various budgets. In Wadi Rum, Bedouin camps provide unique overnight stays, often including traditional meals. Dead Sea resorts offer luxury hotels with spa facilities and diverse dining. In cities like Amman and near Jerash, you'll find everything from international cuisine to local Jordanian eateries and cafes.