Overview of “Best Things to Do in Jordan”

Jordan is a country for hikers and historians, scientists and artists, foodies and yoga lovers, offering endless best things to do in Jordan for every kind of traveler. Whatever your passion, you’ll find kindred spirits here. This destination belongs on your bucket list—a place where adventure, history, and culture come together in unforgettable ways.

When it comes to the best things to do in Jordan, the list is endless. From exploring ancient cities carved into rose-red rock to floating effortlessly in the Dead Sea, every corner offers something extraordinary. Many of Jordan’s landmarks gained fame through pop culture and the stories shared by travelers returning home.

Jordan offers bucket-list experiences, with natural beauty, timeless heritage, and warm hospitality that make every moment unforgettable.

In this article, we will cover the following:

1. 15 Best Things to Do in Jordan
2. Accommodations in Jordan: Comfort and Authenticity Across the Kingdom
3. Explore Amman with Amman Local Guide: Discover the City’s Cultural Treasures
4. Explore with a Jordan Local Guide: Discover the Must-See Attractions in Jordan
5. Must Try Food in Jordan: A Taste of Tradition and Hospitality
6. FAQ: Your Questions About the Best things to do in Jordan

Ready to explore All the best things to do in Jordan? Book your adventure now through Simsem app.

15 Best Things to Do in Jordan

1. Explore the Amman Citadel

Discover the ancient heart of Amman atop Jabal Al-Qal’a, home to ruins spanning thousands of years. An Amman citadel local guide helps you uncover the stories behind the Temple of Hercules, Umayyad Palace, and sweeping views.

2. Walk the Amman Walking Trail

This trail leads you through downtown markets, heritage streets, and cultural landmarks full of local character. Walking with a local guide turns every stop into a meaningful story.

3. Visit the Roman Theater

This 6,000-seat Roman masterpiece remains one of Amman’s most iconic attractions. A guided visit reveals how it shaped social and cultural life in ancient times.

4. Discover Al Salt City

Al Salt’s warm atmosphere, yellow-stone architecture, and UNESCO-listed heritage make it a must-visit. Exploring its alleys with a guide uncovers stories of coexistence and community spirit.

5. Enter the Ancient World of Petra

Petra’s carved facades, dramatic canyons, and Nabataean history create an unforgettable journey. A local guide enriches your visit with deeper historical understanding.

6. Sleep Under the Stars in Wadi Rum

Wadi Rum’s desert landscapes offer serenity, Bedouin hospitality, and starlit night skies. Staying with locals lets you experience Jordan’s nomadic traditions authentically.

7. Float Effortlessly at the Dead Sea

Relax in mineral-rich waters and enjoy the therapeutic mud at the lowest point on Earth. The calm atmosphere makes it perfect for slow-paced wellness moments.

8. Dive into Red Sea Adventures in Aqaba

Aqaba offers beaches, marine life, water sports, and a lively local culture. Exploring with a guide helps you discover the city’s heritage and culinary gems.

9. Find Peace on Mount Nebo

Mount Nebo offers inspiring views toward Jerusalem and the Jordan Valley. Its mosaics and biblical history make it one of Jordan’s most meaningful spiritual sites.

10. Taste Must Try Food in Jordan

From mansaf to zarb, Jordan’s cuisine reflects deep traditions and community values. A local food guide reveals the stories and techniques behind each dish.

11. Join a Bedouin Cultural Experience in Wadi Rum

Sharing tea and stories with Bedouin hosts connects you to Jordan’s desert traditions. These encounters highlight hospitality, storytelling, and cultural identity.

12. Hike Through Dana Biosphere Reserve

Dana offers rugged cliffs, wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes ideal for nature lovers. Guided hikes reveal hidden trails and showcase the reserve’s biodiversity.

13. Travel Back in Time in Jerash

Jerash’s streets, temples, and theaters form one of the world’s best-preserved Roman cities. Exploring with a guide helps you imagine life in ancient Jordan.

14. Enjoy Sunset on Rainbow Street

Rainbow Street is perfect for relaxed evenings filled with cafés, rooftops, and local vibes. It’s one of Amman’s most popular cultural and social hubs.

15. Stay at Top Accommodations in Jordan

From luxury hotels to desert camps, Jordan offers memorable stays across the country. Each accommodation blends comfort with authentic cultural experiences.

Your Jordan local guide starts here. Download Simsem app to discover 15 best things to do in Jordan. 

Accommodations in Jordan: Comfort and Authenticity Across the Kingdom

Finding the right place to stay can make all the difference when exploring Jordan’s breathtaking landscapes and historical treasures. Accommodations in Jordan range from luxury resorts to boutique stays, offering comfort, culture, and authentic hospitality.

In Amman, travelers enjoy luxury at Fairmont Amman or the stylish Amman Rotana, both offering excellent service and beautiful city views. Their central locations make it easy to access the city’s main attractions, vibrant restaurants, and cultural landmarks.

Down south in Petra, visitors can unwind after a day of exploring the ancient rose-red city at the Mövenpick Resort Petra, located just steps from the main gate, or enjoy a more intimate atmosphere at Petra Moon Hotel, known for its warm service and panoramic rooftop views.

Along the shores of the Dead Sea, comfort and relaxation await at the Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea, famous for its luxurious spa, or the Dead Sea Marriott Resort & Spa, which combines modern elegance with breathtaking views of the lowest point on Earth.

For those seeking adventure under the stars, Wadi Rum offers unforgettable desert stays. Guests can experience Bedouin-style hospitality at the Memories Aicha Luxury Camp, or embrace a more immersive desert experience at the Wadi Rum Bubble Luxotel, where transparent domes allow you to sleep beneath a sky full of stars.

No matter where you choose to stay, accommodations in Jordan offer more than just a place to rest—they provide a true connection to the country’s culture, landscapes, and legendary warmth.

With Simsem app you will know the best Accommodations in Jordan. 

Explore Amman with Amman Local Guide: Discover the City’s Cultural Treasures,

Amman, Jordan offers a captivating blend of ancient landmarks, cultural treasures, and lively neighborhoods. From archaeological wonders to modern attractions, exploring the capital with an Amman local guide brings the city’s vibrant history and character to life.

• The Royal Automobile Museum

Located beside Al Hussein Public Park, this museum is a highlight of any Amman tour. It houses the late King Hussein’s extraordinary car collection, showcasing vehicles and motorcycles dating from 1886 to the 1940s. Among its prized exhibits is the rover featured in The Martian, filmed in Jordan’s UNESCO World Heritage site, Wadi Rum. The rover was gifted to Jordan in gratitude and now stands proudly as a symbol of national pride.

An Amman local guide shares stories about King Hussein’s passion for cars and Jordan’s modern history, adding a personal touch.

• The Jordan Archaeological Museum

Situated atop the Amman Citadel, this museum offers an in-depth look into Jordan’s long and layered past. Its collections span from prehistoric times to the 15th century, featuring pottery, jewelry, coins, and ancient relics. Whether you’re starting your Amman adventure or concluding your journey through Jordan, exploring the museum with an Amman local guide allows you to understand the artifacts within their historical context and appreciate how they shaped Jordan’s identity.

• King Abdullah Mosque

Built in 1989 by the late King Hussein in memory of his grandfather, the King Abdullah Mosque is one of Amman’s most iconic landmarks. Welcoming both Muslim and non-Muslim visitors, it accommodates up to 7,000 worshippers and includes a section dedicated to women. Inside, you’ll find an Islamic Museum displaying historical photographs, personal belongings of the late king, and significant religious artifacts.

• Amman Citadel

Perched high on Jabal Al-Qal’a, the Amman Citadel is one of the capital’s most iconic landmarks, offering breathtaking views and an extraordinary window into Jordan’s layered past. This ancient hilltop has been continuously inhabited for thousands of years, with ruins that reflect civilizations such as the Romans, Byzantines, and Umayyads. Visitors can wander among the grand columns of the Temple of Hercules, the elegant Umayyad Palace complex, and centuries-old fortification walls that once protected the city. Inside the Jordan Archaeological Museum — located at the heart of the Citadel — you’ll find artifacts that trace Jordan’s story from prehistoric times to the Islamic era.

Exploring the Amman Citadel with an Amman local guide brings these remnants to life, offering cultural insights, historical context, and stories that reveal how this hill shaped the city’s identity across generations.

Visiting with an Amman local guide enriches the experience — they can explain the mosque’s architectural symbolism, cultural importance, and the role it plays in daily Jordanian life.

Exploring the capital with an Amman local guide is more than just sightseeing; it’s an opportunity to connect deeply with Jordan’s culture, people, and spirit. From the hilltops of the Citadel to the modern heart of the city, Amman welcomes travelers with open arms and stories waiting to be shared.

Explore the capital of Jordan with Simsem app and book your Amman local guide.

Explore with a Jordan Local Guide: Discover the Must-See Attractions in Jordan

Jordan is a land of timeless beauty, diverse landscapes, and deep cultural roots. Exploring with a Jordan local guide transforms each journey into a personal story—one that connects you to the heart of the country’s history, people, and spirit. From ancient towns to coastal cities and sacred mountains, here are three must-see attractions in Jordan that showcase its incredible heritage and hospitality.

• Al Salt City

Located about 40 minutes west of Amman, Al Salt City is one of Jordan’s most remarkable destinations, celebrated for its history, charm, and warm community spirit. Built over three hills, the city offers breathtaking views and traditional architecture that reflect a rich past stretching back to the Iron Age. Walking through its narrow alleys and yellow-stone buildings with a Jordan local guide reveals hidden stories of coexistence and heritage that earned Al Salt a place on UNESCO’s World Heritage List as “The Place of Tolerance and Urban Hospitality.” A guided visit reveals living history, where every street whispers stories of peace, faith, and lasting friendship.

• Aqaba

Nestled on the Red Sea, Aqaba is Jordan’s radiant coastal gem and a gateway to adventure. Known for its vibrant blend of heritage, hospitality, and marine beauty, the city welcomes travelers with open arms. With a Jordan local guide, you can uncover the city’s rich history—from Nabataean and Roman influences to Ottoman heritage—while exploring bustling souks, local cafes, and ancient ruins. Aqaba is also home to some of the most spectacular diving and snorkeling spots in the region, making it one of the must-see attractions in Jordan for beach lovers and thrill-seekers alike. Beyond its natural beauty, Aqaba’s charm lies in its people, whose warmth and simplicity make every encounter memorable.

• Mount Nebo

Rising high above the Jordan Valley, Mount Nebo is one of Jordan’s most spiritually significant sites. According to tradition, this is where the prophet Moses viewed the Promised Land before his passing. A Jordan local guide can help visitors understand the deep religious and historical importance of the site while admiring the panoramic views stretching across the Dead Sea to Jerusalem and Bethlehem. The Memorial Church of Moses, with its preserved mosaics and ancient foundations, adds a reflective depth to this sacred hilltop. Mount Nebo offers serenity and inspiration, blending faith, history, and stunning scenery as one of the must-see attractions in Jordan.

Your Jordan local guide starts here. Download Simsem app to discover must see attractions in Jordan. 

Must Try Food in Jordan: A Taste of Tradition and Hospitality

Food is at the heart of Jordanian culture, reflecting the warmth, generosity, and heritage of its people. Exploring must-try food in Jordan with a Jordanian food guide connects you to the country’s traditions and authentic flavors. From the Bedouin deserts to the northern hills, each dish tells a story of family, community, and pride.

• Mansaf

If you ask any Jordanian which dish you absolutely must try, chances are they’ll say mansaf. This national dish of Jordan is made with rice, lamb, and a unique yogurt-based sauce called jameed. Beyond its rich flavor, mansaf carries deep cultural significance—it’s a meal that symbolizes Jordan itself. Traditionally served at family gatherings, celebrations, and festivals, mansaf represents unity and generosity. A Jordanian food guide will tell you how mansaf has even been used to resolve disputes and bring peace among tribes.

The traditional platter features rice, lamb, jameed sauce, nuts, and shrak, a thin bread that completes the dish. With every bite, you’re not just tasting food—you’re sharing in Jordan’s identity and heritage. Thus, trying mansaf is one of the most authentic best things to do in Jordan.

• Zarb

For an unforgettable experience of Bedouin culture, try zarb, also known as the Bedouin barbecue. This centuries-old cooking method involves roasting meat and vegetables in underground pits filled with hot coals. The food—often chicken, goat, or lamb, along with carrots, onions, potatoes, and tomatoes—is sealed underground and slow-cooked to smoky perfection. When unearthed, the meal is served on large communal platters with rice, salads, and dips.

A Jordanian food guide explains how desert nomads perfected this method to create flavorful meals with minimal tools. Zarb isn’t just one of the must try foods in Jordan; it’s an immersive experience that connects you directly with Bedouin hospitality and the rhythm of desert life. Thus, trying zarb is one of the most authentic best things to do in Jordan.

• Makmoura

In northern Jordan, particularly in Irbid and Jerash, locals take pride in makmoura, a beloved dish whose name means “buried.” True to its name, makmoura layers dough with meat—usually lamb or chicken—caramelized onions, and spices like cumin and sumac before being slow-cooked until golden and aromatic. The result is a savory pie with a crisp crust and soft, flavorful interior. Sharing makmoura among family and friends reflects patience, hospitality, and community spirit.

With a Jordanian food guide, visitors discover its preparation traditions and how the dish has been passed down through generations. More than just a meal, makmoura captures the comforting essence of home-style cooking and the soul of northern Jordan. So, trying makmours is one of the most authentic best things to do in Jordan.

Whether you’re savoring mansaf in Amman, enjoying zarb under Wadi Rum’s stars, or tasting makmoura in Irbid’s countryside, exploring the must try food in Jordan with a Jordanian food guide promises an authentic, heartwarming journey through the flavors that define the nation.

Explore must try food in Jordan with Simsem app and immerse yourself with this tasty dishes.

FAQ: Your Questions About the Best Things to Do in Jordan

• What are the must-see attractions in Jordan?

Jordan is full of incredible sights, from Petra and Wadi Rum to the Dead Sea, Al Salt, Aqaba, and Mount Nebo. Visiting these destinations with a Jordan local guide enhances the experience, providing historical context and cultural insight.

• Which cities should I visit with a Jordan local guide?

Key cities to explore include Amman, Petra, Aqaba, and Al Salt City. Each offers unique experiences—from museums, mosques, and bustling markets in Amman, to the rose-red wonders of Petra, coastal adventures in Aqaba, and historic charm in Al Salt.

• What types of accommodations are available in Jordan?

Jordan offers a range of accommodations for every traveler, including luxury hotels, boutique stays, and desert camps. Popular options include Fairmont Amman, Mövenpick Resort Petra, Kempinski Dead Sea, and Wadi Rum Bubble Luxotel. Staying in convenient locations allows you to enjoy both comfort and cultural immersion.

• What are the must-try foods in Jordan?

When visiting, don’t miss traditional dishes like mansaf, zarb, and makmoura. Each dish reflects Jordanian heritage, hospitality, and local traditions. A Jordanian food guide reveals each dish’s preparation, cultural meaning, and the stories behind its traditional flavors. So, trying Jordanian food is one of the most authentic best things to do in Jordan.

• Why should I hire a local guide in Jordan?

A Jordan local guide enriches your visit by offering expert knowledge, historical context, and cultural insight. Guides can lead you through must-see attractions in Jordan, introduce you to authentic experiences like local food, and help you navigate cities and landmarks, making your trip more meaningful and memorable.

Experience authentic best things to do in Jordan when you booking directly with Simsem app .