Jordan really is a bucket list destination and is an amazing country to experience. Check out our tips for how to spend the perfect week in Jordan.
Why Visit Jordan
With a deep history starting since dawn of civilization, Jordan really will leave you awestruck.
Jordan is known as the jewel of the Middle East and is very safe for tourists looking to experience its many wonders, contrary to what those statements above might indicate. As a religious mecca and historically rich region, this country offers many scenic vistas and holy spots.
But Jordan also caters to those looking for alternative types of diversions, be it floating in the Dead Sea or lounging in local bars. Jordan is also great value for money especially compared to similar destinations in the Middle East.
Getting to Jordan
Jordan is easier and cheaper to get to than you might think. Airlines like British Airways, Royal Jordanian, TUI and easyJet all fly direct to Jordan from the UK and the average flight time from London is 5 hours.
When to Visit Jordan
Jordan is an all year round destination and although there is no specific best time to visit, we recommend booking to visit in the spring. It’s not as hot as in the summer but not cold as winter. Whatever month you visit
Getting Around
When it comes to actually getting around, driving is the best option. Although this might sound like a scary prospect, it is a lot easier than you think.
There are taxis and buses in the main metropolitan areas, but they’re fairly unreliable. If driving isn’t a good option, then consider hiring a driver. You might also want to check out Jordan tours where you will travel in a group and get an experienced guide to take you to the best spots in the country.
If you have any concerns about safety, or even travelling independently, booking a tour is recommended as you will get an experience guide and travel in a group with other travellers from all over the world.
Accommodation
Most International travellers choose to stay in hotels or Airbnbs.
There are big proponents of both sides of the coin, but each option, obviously, has its merits and downsides. Hotels are pretty much the same everywhere, and those looking for an impersonal but relaxing stay should stick to them.
Airbnbs, on the other hand, help people meet and integrate with the locals – plus, they’re generally cheaper too. There are some great Airbnbs in Jordan, especially in Amman, so don’t rule them out. That said, hotels usually offer better amenities and security.
Safety
Jordan sits smack in the middle of two countries that are beset by war and civil unrest, Syria to the North and Iraq to the West. But the reality is, Jordan is one of the most stable territories in the Middle East with a thriving tourism industry.
Millions of tourists visit Jordan every year and very few international visitors encounter any problems due to the low levels of crime.
But, like travelling in any country you should be aware of yourself and your belongings at all times. Read up and latest news before departing and ask locals for recommendations on arrival. Local people are very friendly and will be more than happy to answer any questions you have.
You might like to learn some local words and phrases, which will impress locals and also give you the chance to interact with people in their own language.
One thing to be aware of is the government in Jordan has a tight grip on what local media outlets can say and also restrict viewing to some websites. To access websites, like international news publications, connect to a VPN server, to make sure that any vital information isn’t being blocked on your mobile, tablet or computer.
Be sure to buy travel insurance before departing too.
Ultimate Jordan Travel Itinerary & Essential Places to Visit
There’s a lot to see and do in Jordan, but it’s not a huge country. A week should be enough to experience most of the best things that this amazing country has to offer.
If you want to do the trip independently, here’s a weeklong travel itinerary that allows you to get the most out of Jordan and see some of the best must-visit spots in the country.
Day 1: Amman
Arrive in Amman. Depending on the hour and jet lag, get out and see the city for a bit. Amman is gorgeous both in the day and the night, and there’s a lot on offer – from beautiful markets to quaint cafes. For a great dinner, try out the Living Room (the Loft) or walk down Rainbow Street and try the various fare on offer there.
Day 2: Jerash
Jerash is only a short trip from Amman, making it the perfect place for a first excursion. This archeological site sits smack dab in the middle of Jerash city, 52km from Amman.
This is one of the most impressive places to see in the Middle East and the Amphitheater is a fine place to start. There’s also the Nymphaeum and temples of Artemis, Zeus, and Hercules.
The Roman ruins in Jerash are incredible, and up there with some of the best in the world. Most people think of Greece for ancient ruins, but Jerash will leave you spellbound.
Once you have finished seeing the ruins head back to Amman for food, nightlife and entertainment. The Blue Fig on Irbid Street with its restaurant and multiple bars is a must-visit location.
Day 3: The Dead Sea + Kerak
About an hour’s drive from Amman lies the Dead Sea. There are no restrictions on where people can swim in the Dead Sea, but the official beaches are better. If only for the freshwater showers that wash away all that salt after the swim. They do charge around 20 JOD per person, though.
Then it’s off to Kerak. Kerak Castle dominates this town and has some rich history of its own. For really good local food, visit the Adel-Halabi or Kir Heres Restaurant. Then find a comfortable hotel for the night – Cairwan Hotel and Karak House are both good options.
Day 4: Wadi Musa
Wadi Musa is a town located in southern Jordan and is a popular destination as it is the nearest town to the incredible archaeological site of Petra.
Petra sits just outside this little town full of friendly locals and charming inns. But Wadi Musa is a long drive from Kerak, so make sure to take plenty of water and snacks along. You can also visit Little Petra before entering Wadi Musa.
Day 5: Petra
Petra is one of the seven wonders of the world, and easily one of the most amazing places to visit in the Middle East.
The ‘Lost City’ of Petra in Jordan is well known for its striking rose-coloured stone and rock-cut architecture. The city was in place as early as 312 BC but remained undiscovered until 1812 when a Swiss explorer stumbled across it. Jordan’s most-visited tourist attraction, you should expect the area to be especially busy during peak tourist season.
Thousands of people travel here every year and it really is somewhere you must visit once in your life. This is usually the highlight of most trips to Jordan and offers amazing photo ops to boot. If it’s on, make sure to visit Petra at Night too (it costs extra) but is well worth it to see Petra in lights.
Check out this article with tips to know before visiting Petra.
Day 6 & 7: Aqaba
The big trip is almost over, but there is still time to relax in the resort town of Aqaba. This port city on the Red Sea's Gulf has been inhabited since 4000 B.C. Aqaba is a great way to relax, you can lounge at the hotel pools, check out the local cafes and bars, and perfect that tan. Make sure to visit the Red Sea as well – there are incredible beaches, sports, rentable snorkeling gear, and world-class scuba diving.
Plan a Week Break to Jordan
Jordan is packed with breathtaking historical sites and fun activities. It’s fully possible to see most of the highlights on a 7-day trip.
So book those tickets and get going to experience Jordan for yourself. Or if you have more time free, why not combine experiences and book an Egypt tour too, some include both countries in the same itinerary.
If you have ever been to Jordan and have any recommendations to share, let us know in the comments section below.
