Day 1: Arrive in Amman
Start your trip by arriving in Amman, the capital of Jordan. Get settled in and take some time to explore the bustling atmosphere of downtown Amman. Walk around the old streets, try local street food like falafel and shawarma, and visit Rainbow Street for a relaxed evening. This is a good introduction to Jordan’s vibrant culture.
Where to Stay
There are many budget-friendly options in downtown Amman. If you’re looking for something upscale, head towards the city center where you’ll find international hotels.
Day 2: Explore Amman
Today, you’ll dive deeper into Amman. Start your morning with a visit to the Citadel, which gives you panoramic views of the city and a glimpse into its ancient history. Don’t miss the Umayyad Palace and the Temple of Hercules.
Afterward, head to the Roman Theater, an impressive structure that hosted performances back in the day. In the afternoon, consider visiting the Jordan Museum to understand more about the country’s history, including the renowned Dead Sea Scrolls.
Pro Tip
Head into downtown for a traditional Jordanian lunch like mansaf, a dish made with lamb, rice, and fermented yogurt.
Day 3: Jerash and Ajloun Castle
Rent a car or join a tour to head north of Amman for a day trip to Jerash. This site is one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world. Spend your morning wandering through ancient streets lined with columns, temples, and theaters.
In the afternoon, visit Ajloun Castle, a medieval castle built by the Ayyubids. It sits on a hill and is surrounded by rolling green hills—a stark contrast to Jordan’s desert landscapes.
Head back to Amman in the evening.
Day 4: Madaba and Mount Nebo
Today, drive or take a guided tour to Madaba, a city known for its stunning Byzantine mosaics. Check out the Church of St. George, where you’ll find the famous mosaic map of Jerusalem and the Holy Land.
Then head to Mount Nebo, where Moses is said to have seen the Promised Land. The views over the Jordan Valley and towards Israel are breathtaking.
Spend the night in Madaba or drive back to Amman, depending on your schedule.
Day 5: Bethany Beyond the Jordan and the Dead Sea
Today is for a more relaxing day, but full of history. Start with visiting Bethany Beyond the Jordan, believed to be the site where Jesus was baptized. Even if you’re not religious, the location’s historical and cultural importance is fascinating.
After a few hours here, head to the Dead Sea for some downtime. Float in the salty waters and cover yourself with the famous mineral-rich mud. Spend half the day floating and sunbathing by the water.
Where to Stay
There are numerous resort options around the Dead Sea if you want to stay in the area, or you can drive back to Amman to continue your trip.
Day 6: Drive to Petra
Get ready for an exciting road trip to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World: Petra. It’s a 3-4 hour drive from Amman; you can either rent a car or use the Jett bus service.
Arrive mid-afternoon and check into a hotel in Wadi Musa, the town that serves as the gateway to Petra. Rest up or visit Petra by Night (if it’s a Monday, Wednesday, or Thursday), where you’ll walk through the Siq to the Treasury, lit entirely by candles.
Day 7: Explore Petra
Today is a big day. Start early to explore Petra properly. Walk through the Siq again, and when you reach the Treasury, take in the breathtaking sight.
As you venture further into Petra, you’ll come across tombs, caves, and intricate carvings in the rock. Don’t miss the Monastery, one of the largest monuments. If you’re up for it, hike to the High Place of Sacrifice for panoramic views of the ancient city.
Pro Tip
Wear comfortable shoes; you’ll be walking a lot. Also, bring water and snacks because it’s a long but rewarding day.
Day 8: Petra (2nd Day) and Little Petra
If you didn’t have enough time to see everything, you can spend your second day in Petra visiting areas you might have missed. Alternatively, you can take it easy and visit Little Petra, a smaller but fascinating archaeological site that is free to enter.
This is a more relaxed day, allowing you to catch your breath after a full day in Petra.
Day 9: Wadi Rum
Today, head to the desert landscapes of Wadi Rum. You can either drive or book a tour to get there. Wadi Rum is famous for its moon-like, red-sand landscapes, and was one of the locations for movies like “The Martian.”
Join a 4×4 tour to explore the desert, stopping at spots like the Khazali Canyon and the Um Fruth Rock Bridge. You can even choose to ride camels through the sands for a more traditional experience.
In the evening, stay in a Bedouin camp and enjoy dinner under the stars.
Day 10: Wadi Rum Activities
Spend your second day enjoying the activities Wadi Rum has to offer. You can go hiking in the desert mountains, try sandboarding, or go on another 4×4 tour. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a hot-air balloon ride for a spectacular view of the desert.
Another night at the camp will leave you with peaceful desert memories before heading to the next destination.
Day 11: Aqaba
After your time in Wadi Rum, drive or take a taxi to Aqaba, Jordan’s coastal city on the Red Sea. Today is a more relaxed day. Spend your time snorkeling or diving to explore the vibrant coral reefs just off the coast. If you’re not into snorkeling, spend the afternoon lounging on the beaches.
Stroll around the city center in the evening and enjoy fresh seafood by the water.
Day 12: More Aqaba and Leisure Time
You have a second day to enjoy Aqaba at your own pace. Go for a morning dive or take a glass-bottom boat tour to view marine life without having to get wet. You can also check out Aqaba Fort and the nearby museum for a bit of history.
Spend your evening relaxing in one of Aqaba’s rooftop cafes overlooking the Red Sea.
Day 13: Drive Back to Amman
It’s time to journey back to Amman. It’s about a 4-hour drive, so you can take your time. Along the way, stop at Kerak Castle, one of the largest Crusader castles in the Middle East. It’s an impressive structure set high above the surrounding area.
Arrive in Amman by evening, and enjoy your final night in the city with a nice dinner at one of Amman’s local restaurants.
Day 14: Departure
Today is your final day. Take it easy in the morning, do some last-minute souvenir shopping, or visit a few places you may have missed like the King Abdullah Mosque or Darat al Funun art gallery.
Make your way to the airport and prepare for your flight home, with wonderful memories of Jordan to carry with you!
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