This is a bit of a toughie, narrowing down Jordan’s top attractions to a top ten “must see and do in Jordan” list. But, here it is, our attempt at bringing you the best of the Hashemite Kingdom in one ultimate checklist – these are things that you really should see and do in Jordan, no matter if you’re here for a quick hop over the border from Israel or a month.
In no particular order…
Visit the Lost City of Petra
Float in the Dead Sea
Lookout from The Citadel in Amman
Snorkel in the Red Sea
Enjoy the stunning desert landscapes of Wadi Rum
Wine and dine in Aqaba
Explore the Roman ruins of Jerash
Climb Mount Nebo
Visit the site where Jesus was baptized
Hike the wet & wild Wadi Mujib
Visit the Lost City of Petra
The amazing Lost City of Petra (lost to the world for centuries until it was rediscovered by a curious Swiss explorer in 1812) is one of the world’s true wonders, and surely the must-see on any visit to Jordan. Be prepared for that moment when you finally come face-to-face with this stunning structure…we were left speechless! For more details about this amazing site, read here.
Note that if you’re coming from Israel to visit Petra, this is a must-read.
Float in the Dead Sea
For the ultimate chillout moment, a float in the Dead Sea is right up there with the best of the best. Thanks to very high levels of salt (over 33% of the sea is in fact salt – compared with most seas which are around 3-6%!) and a superb climate almost all-year round, the Dead Sea is picture postcard perfect – and yes, you really can grab that postcard moment of floating on your back reading a newspaper! The Dead Sea is perfect for a day trip from either Amman or Aqaba, or for a longer spell if you’ve got the time and budget! For more details, click here.
Lookout from The Citadel in Amman
The city of Amman is probably not on too many “must see before you die” lists, but take it from us, the capital of Jordan is an amazingly interesting and electrifying city! And if you don’t have time to take in all of Amman’s charms, at least head up to The Citadel for some amazing Roman ruins and some outstanding views out across the city! Read more about The Citadel here.
Snorkel in the Red Sea
We’ve enjoyed many a Red Sea snorkel, and if you love being wowed by some truly stunning underwater wonders, head to Aqaba for the ultimate snorkel or scuba session! There are plenty of dive schools and places to rent snorkel equipment (some of which are included in our guide to Aqaba), but thanks to a far lighter volume of dives than those of neighboring Eilat and the Sinai, the coral here is still in excellent condition. For a taster of what to expect, watch the video below…
Enjoy the stunning desert landscapes of Wadi Rum
If you’re looking to experience some truly desert stunning landscapes, you won’t be disappointed by the vistas in Wadi Rum. Whether you’re here for just a few hours or a few days, expect to be enchanted by stunning desert life and locals, and tales of Sir Lawrence of Arabia. And don’t be surprised by the number of movies that have been filmed here! Read our full guide to Wadi Rum here.
Wine and dine in Aqaba
Aqaba, on the Red Sea coast and located opposite the Israeli tourist town of Eilat, is the southernmost point in Jordan. Aqaba has grown fast over the last decade or so and seen a rapid rise in investment, hence the rise in tourism here, and the accompanying explosion in waterside hotels, dive schools and restaurants. An almost all-year-round season means there are plenty of great spots to eat out at, check out some of our recommendations here.
Explore the Roman ruins of Jerash
The Roman ruins of Jerash are one of Jordan’s true hidden secrets. It’s a place that might not be on everybody’s itinerary thanks to its more northern location, but seriously, this place might just knock your socks off. From the impressive Hadrian’s Arch to the Temple of Zeus, this site is full of ancient wonders! Read our full guide to Jerash here.
Climb Mount Nebo
The magnificent Mount Nebo is a Jordan must-see, if only for its magnificent views out across Jordan and into Israel (on a clear day you can see Jerusalem). Of course, this elevated site – some 817 meters above sea level – is primarily known as the location where Moses was granted a view of the Promised Land. Don’t miss our full guide to Mount Nebo and how to visit this amazing site – in the meantime, the picture below will give you a taste of what views to expect…
Visit the site where Jesus was baptized
It might not be the prettiest site you’ll come across in Jordan, but it may well be the most spiritual. There’s not a lot to see here, but as it’s just a short ride from Amman, it’s well worth a visit. The site itself is believed to be the place where Jesus was baptized and has been kept largely plain and decommercialized, and yes, you can even take a dip in the holy waters yourself. For more details, click here.
Hike the wet & wild Wadi Mujib
If hiking is your game, the hike of Wadi Mujib (also known as the River Arnon) near the Dead Sea is one of the best hikes you’ll ever trek! Expect to get wet, but also expect to have an amazing time – read more here. In the meantime, check out the video below for a taste of what to expect…
Below are some excellent tour options we can recommend…
And if you need an infographic to sum it all up for you…
