I am a verified local guide in Jordan, and I highly recommend such adventures as hiking through the valleys of Petra, strolling through the lush forests of Ajloun, or being surprised by the healing properties of the Dead Sea. Jordan has something for everyone.

You will definitely be pampered with things to do and see for all travelers, thanks to the perfect weather for year-round visits.

In this article, we’ll guide you through Things to Do and See in Jordan, hidden gems, and must-see attractions, helping you plan your trip to Jordan. You’ll also discover the best places to eat, from local treasures in Amman restaurants to hidden spots across the country. Dive in and uncover all the wonders that make Jordan an unforgettable destination.

• Petra: The Jewel of Jordan

No visit to Jordan is complete without seeing Petra, the UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Carved into rose-red cliffs, Petra is an archaeological wonder that dates back to the Nabataean kingdom. Before you plan your itinerary, consider paying a visit to the Treasury, the Monastery, and countless tombs scattered throughout the site. To truly experience all the leading and important spots in Petra and impress yourself with the grand old art, you’ll need two days of exploring. However, if you can’t walk long distances, the trip to the Treasury is still accessible.

Important Guide Before You Go

You can book a golf cart from the visitor center:

• Petra Entrance to the Treasury (one-way): USD 22 per person for a maximum of 5 passengers.
• Petra Entrance to the Treasury and back to the Entrance (round trip): USD 36 per person, also with a capacity of 5 passengers.

Donkey or horse rentals are available for those wishing to visit the Byzantine Church and the Royal Tombs while keeping the journey simpler.

In Petra, you’ll find the Basin Restaurant, an ideal spot for scenic views that are full of ancient surroundings and wonders. Located near the base of the Monastery trail, this restaurant is nestled in the heart of the archaeological site, offering a convenient stop after exploring some of Petra’s iconic landmarks. Run by the Crowne Plaza, 

The Basin Restaurant serves a buffet-style lunch with a variety of local and international dishes, perfect for recharging before continuing your journey. With shaded outdoor seating and a scenic backdrop, it’s an excellent place to unwind and take in Petra’s beauty.

• Amman Citadel and the Royal Automobile Museum

Amman, the capital of Jordan, is a must-visit for travelers. At the heart of the city, the Amman Citadel is perched on one of the highest hills, offering stunning views and a look into Jordan’s rich history. Here, you can wander through ancient ruins, including the Temple of Hercules and the Umayyad Palace.

Important Guide Before You Go

The Citadel is open from 8 AM to 7 PM in summer and 8 AM to 4 PM in winter. The entrance fee for foreigners is 3 JD (4 USD), and it’s free for Jordanian residents.

Just a short distance away, the Royal Automobile Museum showcases King Hussein’s car collection, providing a fascinating glimpse into Jordan’s modern history. The museum features a range of vehicles, from vintage cars to contemporary classics, including iconic models like the 1952 Aston Martin DB2, one of King Hussein’s favorites, and the classic 1916 Cadillac used by King Abdullah I. The museum is open Saturday to Thursday from 10 AM to 7 PM and Friday from 11 AM to 7 PM. Ticket prices are 3 JD (4 USD) for foreigners, 1 JD for Jordanians, and free for children under 12.

If you want to visit any sites around Amman, taking a taxi or using Uber are the most common and convenient options. Taxis are easy to find, and Uber provides an app-based alternative for easy booking and fare estimates.

Alternatively, renting a car is a great option, especially if you plan to visit multiple sites or enjoy a panoramic tour around the city. A sedan car rental typically costs around 25 JD (approximately USD 35) for one day. With a rental car, you can explore at your own pace, make spontaneous stops, and even meet up with friends if you’re traveling with a group. This option often turns out to be more affordable if you plan on covering several locations in a day.

For travelers interested in culture and history, Amman has no shortage of things to do and see in Jordan.

• Al-Maghtas and the Dead Sea

Another significant UNESCO site is Al-Maghtas, the baptism site of Jesus Christ. Located along the Jordan River. There is a 12 JOD (approximately USD 17) entrance fee to visit the site. The annual Christian pilgrimage to Al-Maghtas happens every January during the feast of the Epiphany, during which pilgrims from around the world gather to commemorate the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist. The site holds great religious importance, and visitors can witness special ceremonies and blessings during this time.

After exploring the historical ruins, you can relax at the nearby Dead Sea, famous for its therapeutic waters, salt, and mineral-rich mud. The high concentration of minerals, such as magnesium and potassium, in the water is known to improve skin health, reduce inflammation, and ease joint pain. The mud is often used in treatments to rejuvenate the skin, making a dip in the Dead Sea both relaxing and healing. Floating effortlessly in its salty waters is one of the best things to do and see in Jordan.

Important Guide Before You Go

How to Reach the Dead Sea:

1. By Car: From Amman, it’s a scenic 1-hour drive along the Dead Sea Highway. Renting a car gives you flexibility and the chance to stop along the way to enjoy the views.

1. By Taxi or Private Transfer: For a more personalized and direct option, you can take a taxi or arrange a private transfer from Amman to the Dead Sea. The cost generally ranges from 25 to 40 JOD (approximately $35 to USD 56) one-way, depending on your pickup location and choice of vehicle. This option provides comfort and flexibility, allowing you to stop and explore along the way if desired.
2. Book a Tour with a Tour Company: Many tour companies offer guided trips to the Dead Sea from Amman, often including transportation, entrance fees, and sometimes lunch or spa access. This option is great if you want a hassle-free experience and the guidance of a knowledgeable tour guide. Prices vary depending on the company and the services included.

If you are looking for a luxurious stay, there are several upscale hotels along the Dead Sea shore. The Kempinski Dead Sea Hotel offers a serene experience with stunning views and world-class spa treatments. The Mövenpick Dead Sea Hotel is known for its traditional architecture, lush gardens, and excellent wellness services. If you are looking for a combination of comfort and luxury, Crowne Plaza Dead Sea offers modern amenities with direct access to the beach, making it ideal for relaxation.

• Wadi Rum: Mars on Earth

If you’re looking for a desert adventure, Wadi Rum offers stunning scenery and a range of activities you shouldn’t miss. Known as the “Valley of the Moon,” Wadi Rum is a vast desert with sandstone mountains, unique rock formations, and wide-open spaces. Access to the protected area requires a 7 JOD (approximately USD 10D) entrance fee.

One of the best ways to experience its beauty is through a hot air balloon ride, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the desert landscape. For those who prefer an up-close adventure, Jeep tours are available, taking you through the dramatic terrains of Wadi Rum. Each Jeep tour lasts at least 2 hours and costs 35 JOD per Jeep (approximately USD 49), guided by local experts who know the area intimately and can show you the most stunning landscapes and hidden gems.

Stargazing is another must-do activity in Wadi Rum. The best time to experience it is on clear nights, between March and May or September and November, when the skies are crystal clear, and the desert silence adds to the magic.

Wadi Rum has also been a popular location for filmmakers. Iconic movies like Lawrence of Arabia, The Martian, and Dune have all been filmed here, capturing the mystical beauty of the desert.

Important Guide Before You Go

How to Reach Wadi Rum

By Car:

• From Amman: A scenic 3.5-hour drive, costing around $30-$50.
• From Aqaba: A shorter, 1-hour drive, also costing about $30-$50.

The roads are well-maintained, offering breathtaking views of the Jordanian countryside.

Hiring a Driver:

• From Amman: A private driver will cost around $100-$150 one way for a comfortable ride.
• From Aqaba: A more affordable option at $50-$70 one way.

Public Transportation:

• From Amman to Aqaba: Catch a Jett bus for a scenic 4-hour journey, costing $10-$15. Buses run several times daily from Jett bus offices.
• From Aqaba to Wadi Rum: Take a taxi for an additional 1-hour drive, costing around $30-$50.

Whether you’d like to fly above the desert in a hot air balloon, explore by Jeep, or marvel at the stars, Wadi Rum offers thrilling trips in Jordan, guided by local guides who will make your experience unforgettable.

• Aqaba: where the desert meets the sea

If you’re looking to add a touch of adventure and relaxation to your trip, head to Aqaba, Jordan’s only coastal city. Located along the shores of the Red Sea. 

Aqaba is not just a coastal city; it’s a hub of excitement and unique experiences on the shores of the Red Sea. For the adventurous, the Aqaba Underwater Military Museum offers an extraordinary diving experience. Here, you can explore sunken military relics such as tanks, an ambulance, and an army crane, all transformed into artificial reefs. It’s a one-of-a-kind dive, combining history with marine life.

When you’re ready to explore the city, don’t miss Pizza Street—Aqaba’s most vibrant and attractive street. Lined with a variety of restaurants, cozy cafes, pastry shops, and hotels, it’s the perfect place to relax after a day of adventure. Whether you’re craving local flavors or international dishes, this street has something for every palate.

Nearby, the Arab Revolt Plaza is a must-see, not only for its historical significance but also for its modern appeal. The government has recently opened a bustling fish market here, surrounded by new restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood with stunning views of the Red Sea.

Aqaba is the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and local culture, making it a must-visit destination on any trip to Jordan and one of the best things to do and see in Jordan.

Important Guide Before You Go

To reach Aqaba, you have several convenient options:

1. By Car: If you’re looking for flexibility, renting a car is a fantastic option. The drive from Amman to Aqaba takes about 4 hours via the Desert Highway, offering scenic views of Jordan’s landscapes along the way. Having your vehicle also gives you the freedom to explore nearby sites such as Wadi Rum and Petra at your own pace. 

1. BY JETT Bus offers an affordable and convenient option for traveling between Amman and Aqaba. A one-way ticket costs 10 JOD (approximately USD 14), and the journey takes around 4 hours. This price provides a comfortable ride with amenities like air conditioning and Wi-Fi, making it a budget-friendly choice for exploring Jordan.

1. By Domestic Flight: If you’re short on time, Royal Jordanian offers flights from Amman’s Queen Alia International Airport to Aqaba’s King Hussein International Airport. The flight takes only about an hour, allowing you to maximize your time in Aqaba. Tickets cost around 35 JOD (approximately USD 49), and it’s recommended to arrive at the airport 2 hours before your flight for check-in and security clearance.

1. By Taxi or Private Transfer: For a more personalized option, you can arrange a private taxi or transfer from Amman to Aqaba. This is ideal for travelers who prefer a direct route and a bit more comfort. The cost typically ranges from 70 to 100 JOD (approximately $98 to USD 140) for a one-way trip. Although more expensive, this option offers flexibility, allowing you to make stops or detours along the way to explore other sites.

With so many ways to reach Aqaba, it’s easy to add this beautiful Red Sea city to your Jordan itinerary.

Why Choose Simsem for Your Jordanian Adventure?

Booking through Simsem ensures that you experience Jordan like a local to make the most of your trip. Simsem offers a variety of trips in Jordan, from historical tours to adventure-packed desert safaris. Every tour is led by a verified local guide providing flexible schedules and personalized itineraries. At Simsem, our goal is to give travelers the opportunity to immerse themselves in Jordanian culture while creating lasting memories.

Whether you’re visiting iconic landmarks like Petra and the Amman Citadel, relaxing by the Dead Sea, or exploring the deserts of Wadi Rum, Simsem’s local guides will ensure you enjoy a truly authentic Jordanian experience.

Simsem: Your Gateway to Trips in Jordan – Tours Led by Locals

Make your Trip to Jordan unforgettable by downloading the Simsem travel app, the perfect Jordan tour guide crafted by travelers and locals. Simsem is the world’s first app that connects travelers with Middle Eastern locals, offering authentic Jordanian experiences through local tours. Whether you are passionate about history, food, or cultural immersion, Simsem provides unique opportunities to fully immerse yourself in Jordan’s rich local culture. Start enjoying and book your tour now.