Day 1: Arrival in Amman
Welcome to Jordan! Once you land in Amman, Jordan’s capital, take it easy. Today, you’re just settling in and getting your bearings. Travel’s exhausting, so the only thing on the agenda is a slow walk around the city outskirts, close to your hotel. Maybe grab a quick bite at a local café and enjoy your first taste of Jordanian cuisine—expect plenty of delicious hummus, falafel, and warm flatbread.
If you’ve got more energy than you expected, consider checking out the Amman Citadel. It sits on top of Jabal al-Qala’a, one of Amman’s seven hills. Here, you’ll have some great views and see historical ruins, including the Temple of Hercules and the Umayyad Palace. It’s one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the world, so you’ll immediately connect with the city’s past.
Day 2: Full Day in Amman
Today, it’s time to get to know Amman properly. Start with a visit to the Roman Theater, right in the heart of the city. It’s massive—you can already imagine how it looked back when it was packed with thousands of spectators. Afterward, take a walk through Downtown Amman, known locally as “Al-Balad”. The old part of the city is filled with narrow streets, markets, and street food stalls, so take your time wandering through.
Head to Rainbow Street in the afternoon for a slower-paced experience. It’s a popular area with cafés, boutiques, and great local shops. Grab something sweet—perhaps some kanafeh, a traditional dessert made with pastry, cheese, and syrup. You can also sit down at a café, watch the world go by, and relax.
Day 3: Jerash & Ajloun Castle
Hop out of the city today and take a day trip to Jerash, about 45 minutes from Amman. It’s the best-preserved Roman city outside of Italy. As you walk through the sprawling ruins, you’ll explore colonnaded streets, towering temples, and impressive theaters. Most travelers don’t expect to experience Roman history in Jordan, but Jerash will pleasantly surprise you!
After that, head to Ajloun Castle, about 30 minutes away. The hilltop castle was built in the 12th century to defend the area from Crusaders. It offers stunning views of the Jordan Valley and is less crowded than other spots, making it a nice break from the busier tourist sites. You’ll be back in Amman by evening for some downtime—perhaps enjoy a laid-back dinner at Hashem Restaurant, one of the oldest establishments in the city.
Day 4: Madaba & Mount Nebo
It’s time to temporarily leave Amman behind and head south! On the way, stop by Madaba, a small city just 45 minutes from Amman, known for its stunning mosaics. The most famous one? The 6th-century Mosaic Map of the Holy Land at St. George’s Church. From here, take a short drive to Mount Nebo, where Moses is said to have seen the Promised Land. The panoramic views are stunning—you might even spot Jerusalem on a clear day.
After a day of exploring, head to the Dead Sea, where you’ll stay the night. Check into a dead sea resort, and take it slow. Float in the salty waters, cover yourself in mineral-rich mud, and unwind. This is one of the best spots to end a day of sightseeing, and your skin will thank you!
Day 5: Floating in the Dead Sea
Today is all about relaxation! You can spend the day at the Dead Sea beach or poolside at your resort. If you’d like a bit more activity, consider a spa treatment. The Dead Sea minerals are famous for their healing properties, and many resorts offer wellness options.
In the late afternoon, if you’re up for a little adventure, wander along the shore and enjoy watching the shifting colors as the sun sets over the water. This is a peaceful day to recharge and get ready for the rest of your trip.
Day 6: Mounting South to Petra via King’s Highway
Today, you’re continuing your journey south on the King’s Highway, one of the most scenic drives in the country. Along the way, you’ll pass deep valleys and rolling hills. Take a break at Kerak Castle, a striking Crusader fortress with impressive views.
If you have time, stop at Dana Biosphere Reserve as well. It’s perfect for a short hike or just stretching your legs—plus, the stone houses make for beautiful photos. Finish the day by arriving in Petra, where you’ll settle into your accommodation just outside the city.
Day 7: Petra – The Rose-Red City
This is one of the most exciting days of your trip! Today, you’ll spend it exploring Petra, the famous archaeological city carved into rock. Start early to beat the heat and the crowds. Walk through the Siq, a narrow gorge, that leads to the Treasury (Al-Khazneh). Seeing it appear as you turn the corner is guaranteed to take your breath away.
Beyond the Treasury, there’s so much more to discover in Petra. Make your way to the Monastery (Al-Deir), which is larger but just as breathtaking. It’s a bit of a hike, but the path is lovely, and the views are worth it. You should plan to spend your whole day exploring Petra—it’s a massive site with tombs, temples, and ancient streets to explore.
Day 8: Little Petra & Wadi Rum
If you’re still craving some ancient sites, start the morning with a visit to Little Petra, just a short drive away. It’s smaller and much quieter than Petra, making it an interesting contrast. You can still see ancient Nabatean rock carvings, and it gives you a different perspective on the Petra region.
Afterward, it’s time for a complete change of pace. Head further south to Wadi Rum, the desert valley famous for its otherworldly landscapes. You’ll likely feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet—it’s no wonder it’s been used as a filming location for sci-fi movies. Plan to stay overnight in a Bedouin camp to fully immerse yourself in the desert experience. Enjoy a traditional meal under the stars, and don’t miss the sunrise—it’s pure magic.
Day 9: Wadi Rum Adventures
Today is all about experiencing the desert! Start the day with a Jeep tour of Wadi Rum. You’ll visit rock formations, ancient petroglyphs, and seemingly endless red sand dunes. If you’re feeling adventurous, try camel riding or even a little sandboarding.
The landscape here constantly shifts—and while it’s stunning in the day, it’s just as beautiful at night. Spend another peaceful night in the desert, enjoying the unpolluted skies and star-filled views. This is quiet time to unwind before heading back to civilization.
Day 10: Return to Amman
It’s time to head back to Amman. If you leave early, you’ll have a little extra time in the city before your flight or the end of your trip. If you’re still up for activities, stop by the Royal Automobile Museum for a fun, unexpected attraction—it showcases old cars owned by Jordan’s kings, all beautifully displayed.
Otherwise, this is a good day to relax before you catch your flight, grabbing some final souvenirs from local shops or a last taste of Jordanian food. Reflect on your incredible 10-day journey—you’ve experienced stunning landscapes, rich history, and friendly hospitality. Jordan will stay in your heart long after you leave.
Leave a reply