Ultimate Jordan Bucket List: 17 Best Things to Do in Jordan
Wondering what the best things to do in Jordan are? Great! You’re in the right place. In this article, you can discover 17 essential things that need to be on your Jordan bucket list!
Jordan is an outstanding country filled with a diverse history, beautiful landscapes, and of course tons of ancient ruins. If you’re not sure what to do in Jordan this article is for you!
I spent a few weeks, travelling around solo around the country. It was a phenomenal adventure – during my trip to Jordan, I found no shortage of amazing things to do. Whether you are looking for adventure, culture, nature, or relaxation, I guarantee you’ll find it here!
From exploring the ancient city of Petra to floating in the Dead Sea or camping under the stars in the Wadi Rum desert, this list is filled with everything you must see in Jordan. Let’s go!
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The Ultimate Jordan Bucket List
If you’re looking for the best of Jordan, you’ve come to the right place.
Below is the shortlist of the top 10 things to see in Jordan that should definitely be on your Jordan bucket list.
10 Things to Do in Jordan
- Explore Petra
- Take a 4×4 Jeep Tour of Wadi Rum
- Explore Jerash – Pompeii of the East
- Float in the Dead Sea
- Camp Overnight In the Wadi Rum Desert
- Discover Little Petra
- Visit the Amman Citadel
- Go Scuba Diving in the Red Sea
- Take In the Seaside Vibe of Aqaba
Best Things to Do in Jordan
Jordan is a country full of wonders – from ancient ruins to stunning landscapes. Here are some of the places to visit in Jordan that you don’t want to miss:
1. Explore Petra
If you’re looking for the number 1 Jordan bucket list destination that will blow your mind, look no further than Petra – the most renowned archaeological tourist attraction in Jordan.
If you were ever wondering what is Jordan famous for, this is it.
Petra is an ancient city, carved into rose-red cliffs by the Nabateans over 2,000 years ago. It’s a true testament to human ingenuity and holds huge historical significance to this ancient tribe.
The city’s most iconic structure, the Treasury, greets visitors as they pass through the narrow Siq, a natural rock fissure you walk down to access the archaeological park. As you venture deeper into Petra, you’ll uncover impressive tombs, temples, and amphitheatres carved into the rock, reflecting the Nabateans’ architectural prowess.
📍You could opt to visit Petra by yourself, or if you prefer, then go on a guided tour with transportation included 📍
This was the top thing I’d wanted to see in Jordan, and it didn’t disappoint. It’s every bit as outstanding as I hoped it would be. I bought the two days in Petra pass which gave me plenty of time to explore everything that’s here. The site is huge!
I also had the additional experience of going back at night time to see the Treasury lit up. You’ll follow a trail of candles down the Siq which lead out to the Treasury, illuminated in subtle shades of blue and pink as you sit and listen to traditional music. It’s quite an experience!
📍 To experience the Treasury in a whole different light, visit Petra by night 📍
Read Next: 26 Things To See at Petra
2. Take a 4×4 Jeep Tour of Wadi Rum
One of the most exciting things to do in Jordan is the 4×4 Jeep tour of Wadi Rum. This stunning desert feels like a different planet, with huge sandstone mountains, deep canyons, and endless plains.
A 4×4 Jeep tour lets you explore Wadi Rum’s incredible scenery, guided by knowledgeable Bedouin drivers who know the area like the back of their hand. They’ll take you to hidden spots, iconic landmarks, and amazing views that you won’t see on foot.
You’ll also see ancient rock art carved by the desert tribes, wander at the changing colours of the desert as the sun moves across the sky, and enjoy a delicious Bedouin meal in the middle of nowhere. To finish it off, you’ll be able to see a blanket of stars in the sky above if you decide to stay in the Wadi Rum desert.
Wadi Rum also has so much to offer for thrill-seekers, like rock climbing, and sandboarding. You can even book hot air balloon experiences!
For the full experience, I highly recommend booking a 4×4 Jeep tour of the desert. This is undeniably the best way to experience the beauty and magic of this desert wonderland. Hanging off the back of a truck, with the warm desert air rushing through my tangled tresses will be a memory I never forget!
📍 The best way to experience the Wadi Rum Desert is on a 4×4 Jeep Tour with a Bedouin Guide 📍
3. Explore Jerash – Pompeii of the East
Jerash is known as the “Pompeii of the East”. It’s home to some of the most amazing Roman ruins in the world. It draws plenty of parallels to the actual Pompeii in Italy (aside from the ashen bodies). You’ll find collonaded streets, a huge forum and plenty of temples.
Jerash has so many incredible sights to see, from the gigantic Oval Plaza, where you can admire the columns and arches, to the stunning South Theater, where you can imagine the performances that once entertained the crowds.
You’ll also see the impressive Hadrian’s Arch, which was built to honour the emperor’s visit. And don’t forget to walk along Cardo Maximus, the ancient city’s high street – this would once have been the bustling hub of this city and would have been lined with shops and markets.
Jerash is one of the best things to see in Jordan, especially if you’re a huge fan of temples and ruin sites. I spent hours here exploring everything in depth, taking it all in.
📍 Jerash is an easy to get to from Amman. Either take the collectivo-style public bus or share a taxi with other travellers – this is what I did. 📍
Alternatively, book a full-day tour with transportation included for the hassle-free option.
Related Article: Visiting Jerash Ruins of Jordan
4. Float in the Dead Sea, Jordan
Bobbing about in the Dead Sea will be one of the most amazing and unique experiences on your Jordan bucket list – Before I went, I didn’t realise just how buoyant the water is, it was the most bizarre feeling – it’s pretty much impossible to flip onto your stomach and swim.
The Dead Sea is a natural wonder that lies between Jordan and Israel – you can access it from either country. It’s famous for its super salty water, which makes you float like a cork. You don’t have to swim or even move; you just lie back and relax on the water.
But that’s not all. The Dead Sea also has healing mud that you can slather on your skin. It’s packed with minerals that help rejuvenate your body. Bake yourself in the sun, and then go in the water to wash off. This is a fully natural spa and I 100% recommend at least a day here during your Jordan vacation.
Read Next: The Complete Guide to 10 Days in Jordan
5. Camp Overnight In the Wadi Rum Desert
If you want to find the best stargazing in Jordan, you can’t miss camping overnight in the Wadi Rum Desert. This is one of the most amazing landscapes on earth that should definitely be on your Jordan bucket list.
Wadi Rum, also known as the “Valley of the Moon,” is a stunning terrain of golden sand dunes, majestic rock formations, and endless silence. As the sun goes down, the desert changes colours – it glows in shades of red, orange, yellow and every colour in between.
And when the night comes, you’ll be amazed by the clear and starry sky. There is no light pollution here making it one of the best places in Jordan to see things like the Milky Way and countless constellations. I lost track of how much time I spent just sitting in the cool evening air watching the stars.
You’ll also have the chance to learn about the Bedouin culture and history and listen to stories and music around the nightly campfires while sharing a shisha and sipping on sage tea. It’s a great way to relax at the end of a busy day exploring the desert.
There are several accommodation options in Wadi Rum ranging from traditional, yet basic Bedouin-style camps to luxury ‘moon capsules’. Whichever accommodation you choose, you can guarantee Bedouin hospitality – expect a warm welcome, delicious food, and one of the most relaxing nights’ sleep you’ve ever had.
📍 Not sure where to stay in Wadi Rum? 📍
Check out these 13 Best Wadi Rum Desert Camps
Read Also: What to Expect at a Wadi Rum Beduin Camp
6. Discover Little Petra
Little Petra, or “Siq al-Barid” as it’s also called, is a stunning archaeological site that showcases the rock-cut architecture and culture of the Nabateans.
You can get to Little Petra by a short drive from Petra, like the main Petra archaeological site, which is built within the rocks and surrounded by narrow canyons.
One of the most impressive things to see here is the Painted Biclinium, also known as the Painted House. This well well-preserved building has colourful frescoes. The frescoes show scenes from mythology, leaves, animals and birds.
Little Petra may not be as big as Petra, but it’s one of the best places to go in Jordan to see the ancient artwork of the Nabeateans. It’s also a much more quiet and more intimate ancient site compared to Petra’s archaeological park.
7. Visit the Amman Citadel
This citadel of Amman is one of the most incredible Jordan sites to see, and it’s right in the centre of the capital city. Step back in time as you explore the hilltop ancient ruins.
The thing I learned quickly in Amman is that it’s incredibly hilly. The Citadel can be seen from most places in the city from its vantage point. I walked up, from the amphitheatres. It’s steep with lots of steps but the ruins are worth it (you could also get a taxi, which is by far the easiest option).
The most iconic landmark here is the huge Roman Temple of Hercules, which stands tall and proud on the hilltop. You’ll also get to see the Umayyad Palace, a beautiful building with its signature domed light blue roof. The main building was once part of a large palace complex, you’ll be able to see how big it is when you explore the wall ruins surrounding it.
Because of the hilltop location, you’ll have fantastic views of Amman from the Citadel. You’ll see how the modern city contrasts with the old ruins, with things like the amphitheatres nestled between the newer buildings.
On the site, you’ll also find the Jordan Archaeological Museum. As far as other archaeological museums go – I found this one is a bit lacking. However, this small museum does give some nice insights into the history and culture of ancient Jordan.
Read Also: Best Things to do in Amman in One Day
8. Go Scuba Diving in the Red Sea
You can’t miss scuba diving in the Red Sea – it’s one of the top activities to do in Jordan for a good reason. The Red Sea is home to a stunning underwater world, full of colourful coral reefs and marine life.
You can do this in the warm waters along the coast of Aqaba, Jordan’s only coastal city. There is no shortage of dive shops here!
No matter what your level of diving experience is, you’ll find suitable dive sites in the Red Sea. There are plenty of options for beginners and experts alike, each with its unique features and attractions. I opted for dive sites that included wrecks – one of them was of a sunken plane – which is where I completed my 100th dive!
Some of the most famous dive sites here include the Japanese Garden and the Cedar Pride Wreck. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to see an abundance of marine life including colourful corals and fish.
9. Shop in the Souks of Amman
If you’re visiting Jordan, and looking for authentic souvenirs, don’t miss out on visiting the souks of Amman. These are the traditional markets where you can find everything from spices and clothes to jewellery and antiques.
The souks are full of life, colour, and culture, and they’re the best way to get to know the real Jordan and see how regular people live. Each souk has a different purpose, each with its own charm and speciality.
The Gold Souk was established in 1948 and is located between the Al-Hussein Mosque and the Roman Citadel. This is where you’ll find the best gold in the city.
Souk Jara is more recent and opened in 2005, this outdoor market is close to Rainbow Street in Jabal Amman. Here you’ll find local handicrafts, antiques and traditional products from Jordan.
Related Article: What To Wear In Jordan and Packing List
10. Take In the Seaside Vibe of Aqaba
Aqaba is a beautiful city on the Red Sea coast. In fact, it’s the only coastal city in Jordan. Here you’ll find the mix of beaches and a pleasant mix of east meets west – I found Aqaba to be the most westernised city out of everywhere I visited in Jordan.
Aqaba’s is the place to go for beach relaxation – however, the public beaches in the main town aren’t all that. Either head outside the town for more privacy or use one of the private beaches from the hotels.
There are plenty of water-based sports here, the main ones being snorkelling and scuba diving. The Red Sea is filled with an abundance of marine life – especially if you take a boat to head away from the shoreline.
You’ll also love walking along the Corniche, the city’s waterfront street, where you can find cafes, restaurants, and shops. You can taste delicious seafood, watch the sunset, and feel the sea breeze on your face.
I also had a great time walking around the food markets here – as a vegetarian, Jordan is a dream destination – there are so many delicious things to be tempted with.
If you’re after your history fix, then visit the Aqaba Fortress and the Aqaba Archaeological Museum to learn more about the history of the city.
11. Climb Mount Nebo
If you’re looking for an experience that combines history, spirituality, and adventure, then definitely consider climbing Mount Nebo. Legend says this is the place where Moses saw the Promised Land before he died, and it’s one of the most sacred sites in the world!
From the top of Mount Nebo, you can enjoy stunning views of the Jordan Valley, the Jordan River, the Dead Sea, and even Jerusalem on a clear day. You’ll feel like you’re on top of the world, literally and figuratively!
The climb itself is not too difficult. You’ll pass by the Memorial Church of Moses, where beautiful mosaics depict scenes from the Bible. People come here to feel a sense of peace and reverence as they walk in the footsteps of Moses and other prophets.
12. Eat Your Way Around the Country
If you love food as much as I do, you’ll want to eat your way around the country. Jordan is a paradise for vegetarians and one of the easiest destinations I’ve visited with such an abundance of naturally veggie-friendly dishes.
With so many delicious dishes to try – and all of them, were top quality – I certainly needed my stretchy pants here. Here are some of my favourites that I 100% recommend checking out.
- Hummus: This is a smooth and creamy dip made from mashed chickpeas, tahini, lemon, and garlic. It’s perfect for dipping bread, veggies, or falafel.
- Falafel: These are crunchy balls of fried chickpea or fava bean dough, seasoned with herbs and spices. They’re great for stuffing in pita bread with salad and sauce.
- Baba Ghanoush: My mouth waters just thinking about this! Baba Ghanoush was by far my favourite thing here. This is a smoky and silky dip made from roasted eggplant, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice. You eat it similar to hummus – by dipping it in bread, but it has a distinct flavour and texture.
- Tabbouleh: This is a fresh and colourful salad made from chopped parsley, tomatoes, onions, and bulgur wheat. It’s dressed with olive oil and lemon juice and has a tangy and refreshing taste.
13. Share a Shisha and Drink Sage Tea With the Locals
Unlike in the West where we head out for cocktails or a glass of wine to be social, drinking isn’t a big thing in Jordan. As a visitor to the country, you can find alcohol served in tourist places but don’t expect it everywhere.
Jordan is a predominantly Muslim country. Alcohol isn’t part of the culture. However, unlike other countries in the Middle East, it’s not as taboo here. If you go out for any evening entertainment in Jordan – don’t be surprised to see a shisha menu in place of a cocktail menu.
Shisha culture is a big part of Jordanian social life, and it’s how people socialise in Jordan. You’ll find shisha cafes all over the place – if you’re staying at a Bedouin camp, you’ll often be welcomed and included in sharing a shisha with them.
You’ll get to enjoy the delicious flavours of shisha which range from fruity to minty.
Sage tea, or “atai,” is another beloved drink in Jordan. It’s made from fresh sage leaves, and it has a wonderful aroma and taste. You can have it plain or with sugar and mint, depending on your preference. It’s the perfect accompaniment to the shisha.
Don’t be surprised if random strangers offer you a cup of sage tea – the first time this happened to me in Jordan I was a bit wary, but after several times of this happening, I began to realise it’s totally normal. Part of the Jordanian culture is to show generosity and hospitality to visitors.
14. Go Canyoning in Dana Bioshpere Reserve
If you’re looking for fun things to do in Jordan, then head to Dana Biosphere Reserve, and go canyoning.
This exciting adventure will take you through narrow canyons, down waterfalls, and into clear pools of water. Experience one of the most beautiful places in Jordan as you navigate the rugged terrain.
The Dana Biosphere Reserve is home to a stunning wilderness area that protects diverse ecosystems and landscapes. It gained UNESCO status in 2007.
Canyoning is a great way to see the geology of the area which has been shaped by the elements. If canyoning is too extreme, you can of course explore the area by foot on the hiking trails here.
15. See the Mosaics in Madaba
Included in this list of what to see in Jordan are the mosaics in Madaba. You can find these colourful and intricate designs decorating the city’s churches, homes, and public spaces.
One of the most famous mosaics in Madaba is the Madaba Map, a sixth-century masterpiece that shows the Holy Land in incredible detail. You’ll find it on the floor of St. George’s Church. It is the oldest known surviving map that depicts Jerusalem and its surroundings. It really is a window into the past, revealing the geography and architecture of the time.
But that’s not all. Madaba has many more mosaics, each one with its own story and style. You’ll see scenes from daily life, mythology, and religious stories, all made with coloured stones, glass, and ceramics.
16. Explore the Desert Castles
Exploring the Desert Castles is one of the lesser-explored in Jordan things to do. It can be achieved in just a day – the easiest way to join a tour from Amman or go by yourself with a rental car.
The Desert Castle Circle will lead you on a bit of a treasure hunt with spots like Qasr Mshatta, Qasr Kharana, Qasr Al Amra, Qasr Azraq, and Qasr Hallabat.
Start your journey heading south of Amman. Your first stop is around 35km south of the capital. Then visit them in this order.
- Qasr Mshatta – a ruin of an Umayyad winter palace
- Qasr Kharana – one of the best-known of the desert castles
- Qasr Al Amra – features some vibrant frescoes
- Qasr Azraq – large fortress ruins with a strategic location
- Qasr Hallabat – an Umayyad desert castle with a bathhouse
17. Road Trip the King’s Highway
If you’re looking for exciting things to do in Jordan, one of the best is to rent a car and take a road trip along the King’s Highway. This ancient road connects Amman and Petra, and it’s full of plenty of interesting stop-offs along the way.
You’ll drive through the heart of Jordan, where you’ll see historical wonders like Mount Nebo, and Madaba, famous for its beautiful mosaics. You’ll also enjoy the stunning scenery of the Dana Biosphere Reserve, before arriving at Petra.
You could plan your whole Jordan itinerary based on this road trip – spending several days driving the route stopping off for a day at the various points of interest along the way.
Related Article: How to get from Amman to Petra
Must See in Jordan – FAQs
Now you’ve learnt what things should be on your Jordan bucket list, this section will help with your planning.
If you’re planning a trip to the beautiful country of Jordan, this section provides answers to frequently asked questions.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Jordan?
The best time to visit Jordan is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for exploring attractions like Petra and enjoying outdoor activities.
How Many Days Do You Need for Jordan?
To experience all of Jordan’s best attractions, I recommend spending between 7 to 10 days in Jordan. This will give you plenty of time to explore landmarks like Petra, Wadi Rum, Amman, and the Dead Sea while also enjoying cultural experiences and taking in the stunning landscapes that the country has to offer.
What Is the Most Important Thing in Jordan?
One of the most important and iconic attractions in Jordan is Petra. This ancient city, carved into rose-red cliffs by the Nabateans, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is often considered the crown jewel of Jordan’s historical and architectural treasures, drawing visitors from around the world.
What Are the Top Things for My Jordan Bucket List?
Your Jordan bucket list should include exploring Petra’s ancient city, camping in Wadi Rum’s desert, floating in the Dead Sea, immersing in Amman’s culture, visiting historical sites like Jerash and Madaba, road tripping along the King’s Highway, and diving in the Red Sea.
How Safe Is Jordan to Travel?
Jordan is generally considered safe for travel. The country has a stable political environment and is known for its warm hospitality. However, as with any destination, I recommended reading up on any travel advisories and following local guidelines before your trip.
What Should Women Wear in Jordan?
In Jordan, modest attire is appreciated out of respect for local customs and culture. Women are advised to dress conservatively, with tops covering shoulders and skirts or pants covering knees. Head coverings aren’t necessary, however, you might want to carry a scarf or shawls in case you’re entering any religious sites.
Can You Drink Tap Water in Jordan?
Yes, tap water in Jordan is safe to drink. However, it might not be to your taste. It’s a personal choice if you want to drink bottled or not.
Is the Jordan Pass Worth It?
Yes, the Jordan Pass is often considered worth it for travellers planning to visit major attractions like Petra. It includes entry fees to many sites, waives the visa fee, and can save time by allowing expedited entry. You need to buy the Jordan Pass before you enter the country.
Still, Wondering What to Do in Jordan?
Although there is a lot more to see in this fascinating country, this article has showcased the very best things to do in Jordan. How many are you excited to do?
I had a great time ticking off things from my Jordan bucket list. It’s an outstanding country and I’d visit it again in an instant.
If you don’t have time to do all 17 things I’ve listed here, then stick with the top 10 must see in Jordan list at the top – you won’t regret it!
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