15 Best Places You Need to See in Jordan
Jordan is an absolutely fascinating country rich in historical and cultural treasures. As a result, there are a high number of unique places to see in Jordan.
From the bustling city of Amman to the silent desert of Wadi Rum – the country offers a diverse range of experiences, each more captivating than the last.
With so many incredible sights and activities to enjoy, planning the perfect Jordan itinerary can be quite a challenge. After all, who wouldn’t want to explore as much of this amazing country as they can?
Despite spending 11 days in the country with my partner, we couldn’t tick off everything from our bucket list. That’s why I reached out to fellow travel bloggers to share their insights on their favorite must-visit places in Jordan.
The result? This comprehensive list of the 15 best places to visit in Jordan, designed to assist you in compiling your ideal itinerary and/or providing inspiration for your future adventures!
(This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a certain percentage of a sale if you purchase after clicking.)
Best Places to See in Amman
1. Amman Citadel
Recommended by me
Undoubtedly, one of the best places to visit in Jordan and the main attraction of its capital city is the Amman Citadel.
Perched atop a hill overlooking Amman, this ancient site offers not only an interesting journey through the country’s history but stunning views as well.
Dating back thousands of years, the citadel has seen many different civilizations come and go, starting from the Bronze Age and continuing through the Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic eras.
While wandering its ruins, you’ll be able to feel the echoes of time, making it one of the best things to do in Amman.
Getting to the citadel is relatively straightforward as it’s only 15 minutes by foot from the downtown area and the Roman Theater.
In summer, the site is open from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm whereas in winter, from October to March, it closes at 4:00 pm. Make sure to go there right at its 8:00 am opening time to avoid crowds.
If you haven’t bought the Jordan Pass you’ll need to pay an entrance fee of JOD 3, roughly equivalent to $4.
Check out: Your Perfect Guide to Visiting The Amman Citadel
Tours you might find interesting:
2. King Abdullah Mosque
Recommended by me
Another place not to miss in Amman is the stunning King Abdullah Mosque.
This architectural marvel, known for its beautiful blue mosaic dome and intricate Islamic designs, was built in the 1980s and is the only mosque in Amman open to non-Muslim visitors.
The mosque boasts a beautiful courtyard capable of accommodating up to 3,000 worshippers, alongside a spacious main prayer hall with the capacity for an additional 7,000 worshippers.
For visitors, the mosque is open from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm on Saturdays to Thursdays between April and September and until 4:00 pm between October and March.
To enter, you need to pay a small entrance fee of JOD 2 (around $2.80).
Similar to any mosque, it’s essential to dress appropriately. Men are required to wear long pants, while women should wear attire covering their arms, legs, and head.
If you arrive without proper attire, don’t worry. Headscarves and abayas (black full-length dresses) can be borrowed free of charge.
3. Ancient Roman Theater
Recommended by Lavina of Continent Hop
In the middle of Amman, in Jordan’s Roman Theater, the country’s past and culture are shown.
Antoninus Pius built this lovely amphitheater in the year 2 AD and its location on the city’s northern hillside showcases Roman architecture.
One of the best-preserved Roman ruins outside of Italy, this edifice holds 6,000 people, illustrating ancient Amman (then Philadelphia)’s importance.
The Roman Theater is important historically and now utilized for concerts and plays, connecting the past and present. The little entrance fee of JOD 2 lets anyone see this construction masterpiece.
To accommodate tourists, the facility is open from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm in winter and until 7:00 pm in summer.
It simply takes an hour or two to experience the theatre’s magnificence and visit the Jordan Folklore Museum and Museum of Popular Traditions, which teach about Roman and Jordanian culture.
After seeing the Roman Theater’s ancient grandeur, you can add to your trip to Jordan by swimming in the Dead Sea and enjoying its unique buoyancy and healing mud.
Make sure to pack comfortable shoes and a camera to capture the breathtaking views of Amman from the upper floors.
4. Rainbow Street
Recommended by Alex of Adventure to Every Country
Rainbow Street is a famous street in Jordan’s capital Amman. It is best known for its vast array of cafés, restaurants, and shops that sell plenty of traditional Jordanian and Middle Eastern goods.
Shisha and Arabian coffee can be found in abundance around here, with restaurants serving local favorites such as falafel and shawarma. It’s also possible to pick up many Jordanian souvenirs along the way.
The colorful lanterns and surroundings are what really give Rainbow Street its charm.
Originally an upscale residential district, the area has now transformed into a popular tourist spot. Its undeniable charm has garnered lots of attention and even the Jordanian Royal Family has visited it in recent times.
Two hours would be an appropriate amount of time to spend on Rainbow Street. This allows plenty of time to see the main shops and vibrant decorations before stopping for lunch.
Rainbow Street is suitable for children and adults of all ages. It can be a steep walk up from downtown (where most hotels are in Amman), therefore taking a taxi is advisable for anyone with mobility issues.
Most Iconic Places to Visit in Jordan
5. Petra
Recommended by me
When thinking of Jordan, the rose city of Petra is mostly the first place that comes into mind. No wonder, after all, it’s one of the Seven Wonders of The World and holds immense historical significance.
The ancient site is located in a town called Wadi Musa in the southern part of the country. Covering an area of 264 square kilometers, Petra is home to a vast array of tombs, temples, and other structures that are carved into the rose-red cliffs
Among the most famous ruins are the Treasury, the Royal Tombs, and the Monastery at the very end of the main trail.
If you don’t just want to follow the main route but also want to discover Petra off the beaten track, it’s recommended to plan more than one day.
For the best and most authentic experience in Petra, it’s crucial to arrive early – very early. To avoid the tourist masses, be there at 6:00 am when the visitor center opens.
If you don’t carry the Jordan Pass, the entrance fee is JOD 55 for one day, JOD 55 for two days, and JOD 60 for three days. Tickets can be bought at the visitor center right before the entrance.
Check out:
12 Important & Useful Tips For Visiting Petra, Jordan
Top 10 Places & Ruins to See in Petra, Jordan
Where to Stay in Petra – Mövenpick Resort Petra
Tours you might find interesting:
6. Roman Ruins of Jerash
Recommended by me
Less than an hour’s ride from Amman you’ll find the Roman Ruins of Jerash.
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the ancient city of Jerash is – besides the Amman Citadel and Petra – one of the best places to learn about the country’s history.
Colonnaded streets and monumental temples will give you the feeling as if you just traveled back in time. On an area of 200 acres, you can admire some of the most impressive ruins such as Hadrian’s Arch, the Nymphaeum, and the Temple of Zeus.
The easiest way to get to Jerash is by taking a taxi or joining a guided tour from Amman.
During the winter months, from November to April, the place can be accessed between 8:00 am and 4:00 pm. In summer, it’s open longer meaning you can explore it until 6:30 pm.
The entrance to the site is covered by the Jordan Pass. If you don’t carry one, you need to pay a small entrance fee of JOD 12, roughly equivalent to $17.
Check out: Visiting The Roman Ruins of Jerash – a Complete Guide
Tours you might find interesting:
7. Dead Sea
Recommended by me
A trip to Jordan couldn’t be complete without swimming in the Dead Sea, the lowest place on Earth. It’s located approximately 50 kilometers from Amman, around a 45 to 60-minute drive.
You can book a taxi to get there, use a rental car, or join a guided tour from Amman to the Dead Sea.
Because of its exceptional salt-rich water, the coolest thing to do at the Dead Sea is to float on its surface which is an experience unlike any other! Just make sure you’re free of any wounds or cuts as contact with the saltwater causes intense stinging.
Many people come to the Dead Sea to relax and indulge in spa treatments offered by surrounding hotels, as the mud from the Dead Sea is renowned for its beneficial effects on the skin.
Additionally, the stunning scenery of mountains and deserts all around adds to the allure of this amazing place.
Check out: Is This The Best Hotel at The Dead Sea in Jordan?
Tours you might find interesting:
8. Wadi Rum
Recommended by me
Think of sandstone mountains, narrow canyons, and vast, wavelike dunes – welcome to Wadi Rum, one of the most otherworldly places to see in Jordan!
Wadi Rum, also known as the Valley of the Moon, is a mesmerizing desert wilderness located in the southern part of Jordan. It’s listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is renowned for its surreal landscapes.
Besides its fascinating landscape, one of the most captivating features of Wadi Rum is its rich historical significance.
Prehistoric rock carvings, ancient inscriptions, and archaeological remnants dating back to the Nabatean era are scattered throughout the entire area.
Wadi Rum is also known to be one of the filming locations for the iconic movie “Lawrence of Arabia”.
There are different ways to reach Wadi Rum. If you’re seeking convenience you might consider opting for a guided tour. Such tours are available from major Jordanian cities and provide a hassle-free experience with knowledgeable guides.
For the most authentic experience, consider staying overnight at one of the numerous camps for at least one or two nights.
Check out: A Complete Guide to Visiting Wadi Rum, Jordan
Tours you might find interesting:
9. Madaba
Recommended by V Kay of Travel Addicted Unicorn
Madaba is a city located in central Jordan, approximately 40 kilometers southwest of the capital, Amman. It is known as the “City of Mosaics” for its well-preserved mosaic art found in its churches and archaeological sites.
One of the most famous attractions in Madaba is the Madaba Map, a 6th-century Byzantine mosaic located in the Saint George Church (19th-century Greek Orthodox).
This mosaic is a floor map of the Holy Land (Jerusalem) and is considered one of the oldest surviving cartographic representations of the region.
The church is open every day from 8 :00 am to 5:30 pm except Friday from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm and Sunday from 10:30 am to 5:30 pm. The entrance fee for Saint George Church is JOD 1 which is about USD 1.50 per person.
You can purchase your ticket from the ticket office beside the church where you will also find a large picture of the Map that shows all its details and additional information.
Other than the Madaba Map, the city is home to several other churches, archaeological sites, and historical buildings where you can see its rich history dating back to ancient times.
Also, keep in mind that modest clothes are recommended, especially when visiting religious sites.
You would need about 30 minutes to see the Saint George Church and in terms of Madaba, you could certainly spend the whole day exploring it.
Tours you might find interesting:
10. Red Sea at Aqaba
Recommended by Suzanne of Meandering Wild
Diving in the Red Sea at Aqaba offers a unique and memorable experience for all levels of snorkeling and diving.
Known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life, the Red Sea’s warm waters provide ideal conditions for diving year-round, with visibility often exceeding 30 meters (100 feet).
Divers can explore a variety of dive sites, including the famous Cedar Pride wreck, submerged artificial reefs, and colorful coral gardens teeming with tropical fish.
Aqaba’s marine ecosystem is home to an array of marine species, including reef sharks, moray eels, and colorful reef fish.
For those seeking guided dives, numerous dive centers in Aqaba offer professional services and experienced instructors. Popular options include Dive Aqaba, Aqaba International Dive Center, and Deep Blue Dive Center.
These centers cater to divers of all levels, from beginners to experienced professionals.
Most of the snorkeling and diving is from the shore and the dive centers will take you and your kit to the entry point where the dive guide will escort you for the dive, showing you the main points of interest and identifying the fish and corals that you may see.
Tours you might find interesting:
Other Amazing Places to See in Jordan
11. Dana Biosphere Reserve
Recommended by Audrey of The Backpacker
The Dana Biosphere Reserve is located in south-central Jordan just west of Dana Village and it’s the largest nature reserve in the country.
What makes this place unique is that it’s an area of diverse geographic landscapes where the elevation ranges from 150 meters below sea level in the Wadi Araba Desert to 1,500 meters above sea level in the Rummana Mountains.
That means varied landscapes, climates, and wildlife!
The reserve is also home to several archaeological sites and evidence suggests it’s been inhabited since 4000 BC.
Today, traditional Bedouin communities still live within the Dana Biosphere Reserve, and their knowledge of the land is an integral part of conservation efforts.
For a unique stay in the Dana Biosphere Reserve, you may want to consider Feynan Ecolodge. The eco-lodge has a strong focus on sustainable tourism and works closely with the local community, meaning guests can learn firsthand about the Bedouin way of life.
It’s worth spending at least two days here so you can truly unwind and enjoy the scenery.
The admission fee to the Dana Biosphere Reserve is JOD 10 ($14) for foreigners. Additionally, you can book numerous hikes led by local guides for an additional fee.
Tours you might find interesting:
12. Shobak Castle
Recommended by Claudia of My Adventures Across The World
Shobak Castle is located in the small town of Shobak, one of the places you walk through when you hike the Jordan Trail from Dana to Petra.
The village used to be named Mont Real, or simply Montreal – which translates as Royal Mountain. The castle, perched on a hill overlooking the village, was built around 1115 AD by the Crusader King Baldwin I.
Inside, there are tunnels that lead to the village and the surrounding areas. They were meant to allow the people inside to escape in case of an attack.
The castle suffered several attacks from Saladin, sultan of Egypt and Syria, who led the Muslim troops during the Third Crusade.
Eventually, after a siege that lasted 18 months, the castle succumbed in 1189. Afterward, it was occupied by the Mamluks in the 14th century.
Shobak Castle is one of the most interesting places to visit in the country. Consider joining a guided tour to learn more about its history and secrets.
Guides usually take you around the castle and also show you the surrounding areas where you can spot the exit of the secret tunnels.
Tours you might find interesting:
13. Wadi Mujib Slot Canyon
Recommended by Ben of Ticket 4 Two Please
While Petra and Wadi Rum are often cited as the best places to see in Jordan, Wadi Mujib is criminally overlooked.
This magnificent slot canyon is found in the heart of Wadi Mujib Nature Reserve on the banks of the Dead Sea, roughly an hour’s drive south of the capital city of Amman.
Wadi Mujib is the world’s lowest nature reserve, standing at an impressive 410m below sea level.
Seeing the Wadi Mujib slot canyon is notable, but the real adventure begins once you start traversing, climbing, and swimming through the canyon. Canyoning in Wadi Mujib is one of the most unforgettable adventure activities in Jordan, and for good reason.
Beginning at the Wadi Mujib Adventure Center, the Siq Trail Canyoning Experience is completely unguided and allows you to explore the canyon at your own pace by following a series of ropes and steps.
Entry to the canyon costs roughly JOD 21 ($30) per person and life jackets and dry bags can be rented at the entrance. Plus, there are lockers to ensure you don’t lose any valuables along the way.
It is worth noting that canyoning at Wadi Mujib is only possible from around April 1st – October 31st each year, depending on the water levels at any given time.
Tours you might find interesting:
14. Qasr al-Azraq
Recommended by Anwar of Beyond my Door
Located in the city of Azraq, Qasr al-Azraq is one of the most beautiful and most famous of the “desert castles” of Jordan.
The castle is most well known as the place where Lawrence of Arabia wintered over (1917-1918) while planning the Arab revolt in Jordan.
Even without the Lawrence connection, the fortress is an amazing building with a history that dates back to the 3rd century. The fortress was first a stone structure built by the Romans and then continued to be built by the Byzantines, Umayyad, and the Ottomans.
The fortress along with other sites in the area is one of the best places to see in Jordan. And for those who are more adventurous it’s a great starting point to visit other desert castles, many more remote and just as incredible too.
The castle is open daily from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and only costs JOD 1 for entrance. The easiest way to visit is via private car but there are options for taxis for those in Azraq.
Most visitors spend an hour or so in the castle. You can climb up and see some great views of the walls and castle and even visit Lawrence’s room, a historic mosque, a prison, and more.
Tours you might find interesting:
15. Baptism Site
Recommended by Pete of The Backpacking Family
If you’re looking for a fascinating and unique attraction in Jordan, check out the Baptism Site, also called “Bethany Beyond the Jordan”.
It’s the location where Jesus was baptized and a great way to connect with the rich religious history of Jordan. It can be found on the east bank of the Jordan River, just a bit north of the Dead Sea.
Once you arrive you need to go to the reception desk and buy a ticket. Wait for a tour to depart as you’re not allowed to walk around the area on your own.
The tour includes several attractions; Jesus’ baptism site, a section where you can enter the river (you need to buy a robe for JOD 10), a stop at St John the Baptist Orthodox monastery, and The Baptism Site museum.
Tickets on arrival cost JOD 12 ($15). You can save money by purchasing the Jordan Pass, as it reduces the ticket price to JOD 8 ($10). The ticket includes the cost of entry and the tour.
You can visit the Baptism Site as a day trip from Amman (allow at least 3 – 4 hours including travel time).
The best way to reach the Baptism Site is by renting a car or making a deal with a local taxi driver in Amman. JOD 40 ($45) for a round trip is a fair price including waiting time.
Tours you might find interesting:
Check out:
A Complete Guide to Visiting Wadi Rum, Jordan
12 Important & Useful Tips For Visiting Petra, Jordan
Top 10 Places & Ruins to See in Petra, Jordan
Your Perfect Guide to Visiting The Amman Citadel
8 Best Things to do in Amman For 1-2 Days
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