Jordan seriously exceeded all my expectations. After spending two weeks exploring this Middle Eastern marvel, I’m still buzzing about everything I experienced – from floating in the Dead Sea at sunset to standing speechless in front of Petra’s Treasury. And trust me, photos don’t do this country justice at all!
Let me share the most beautiful places to visit in Jordan that left me completely awestruck. From the raw beauty of Wadi Rum’s red desert (where I slept under more stars than I’ve ever seen) to the hidden canyons of Dana, here are my 12 favorite spots that made this trip unforgettable.
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👉 My Favorite Tour in Jordan
#1 tip to save money on your trip to Jordan
Let’s first cover some quick tips that will save you time and money on your Jordanian adventure.
- FLYING: If you haven’t already, I HIGHLY recommend signing up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going). Last spring, I flew to Amman for just $400 roundtrip thanks to their email alerts. The premium and elite version are even better!
- Food: Skip the tourist restaurants in Petra and try the local spots in Wadi Musa where plates of mansaf cost half the price. In Amman, head to downtown’s Hashem Restaurant. It’s where locals eat and serves the best falafel for a fraction of hotel prices. For Dead Sea trips, pack a lunch from Amman’s supermarkets – resorts charge premium prices
- Transport: I recommend looking into the Jordan Pass before your trip. It covers your visa and entry to Petra, Wadi Rum, and other sites. For getting between cities, JETT buses cost significantly less than private drivers. Within Amman, use ride-share apps like Careem instead of regular taxis for better rates.
Jordan may have a reputation for bucket-list sights, such as Petra. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to experience its incredible history and desert landscapes on a budget. Now, without further ado, let’s jump into the best places to visit in Jordan!
The Prettiest Places to Visit in Jordan
I still remember the first time I saw Petra lit up by candlelight, and let me tell you – it’s just the beginning of what makes Jordan incredible. From ancient cities carved in rock to starlit nights in the desert, let me show you why this place will blow your mind.
1. Petra
- 📍 Location: Petra, Ma’an Governorate, Jordan
- 🏆 Best For: 🏛️ History buffs, 🥾 adventurous hikers, 📷 bucket list travelers
- 📸 Top Experiences: Walking through the Siq, seeing the Treasury at sunrise, hiking to the Monastery
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May for mild temperatures and fewer crowds 🌤️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Petra Guest House Hotel – Stone-built lodge just steps from the Petra entrance with mountain views
Petra is the kind of place that completely resets your expectations. The journey begins with a walk through the narrow Siq, a winding sandstone gorge that sets the stage for the big reveal. When the Treasury finally comes into view, glowing in soft red hues, it feels like something out of a movie.
Beyond the famous façade, Petra stretches out for miles. You’ll find tombs carved into cliffs, ancient temples, and viewpoints with sweeping desert panoramas. The climb to the Monastery is worth every step and offers some of the best views in the entire site.
To get the most out of your visit, plan to explore early in the morning and stay until late afternoon. That way, you can avoid peak crowds and see the changing colors of the rocks throughout the day. A solid pair of walking shoes and plenty of water are essential.
- Read next: Top UNESCO World Heritage Sites
2. Wadi Rum
- 📍 Location: Wadi Rum, Aqaba Governorate, Jordan
- 🏆 Best For: 🏜️ Desert explorers, 🌌 stargazers, 🐪 cultural travelers
- 📸 Top Experiences: Jeep tour through the red dunes, overnight stay in a Bedouin camp, climbing rock bridges
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May for cooler nights and clear skies 🌄
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Memories Aicha Luxury Camp – Desert retreat with dome tents and views of the surrounding cliffs
Wadi Rum is a surreal mix of wide-open desert, towering sandstone mountains, and endless sky. Known as the Valley of the Moon, this protected area has a unique landscape that feels otherworldly. It’s a favorite for both filmmakers and travelers seeking a taste of raw, natural beauty.
A guided jeep tour is the easiest way to explore the region. You’ll stop by sand dunes, hidden canyons, and ancient petroglyphs carved into the rock. Some camps also offer camel rides or guided hikes for those who want a slower, closer look at the desert terrain.
At night, everything changes. The silence is deep and the sky fills with stars. Bedouin-style camps provide dinner, tea, and traditional music around the fire. It’s one of the most immersive experiences in Jordan and a perfect break from city travel.
3. Dead Sea
- 📍 Location: Eastern shore of the Dead Sea, Jordan
- 🏆 Best For: 🧖 Wellness seekers, 🧂 novelty floaters, 🌅 sunset watchers
- 📸 Top Experiences: Floating on the salty water, applying mineral-rich mud, watching sunset over the sea
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: October to April for comfortable weather and fewer crowds 🌞
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Mövenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea – Beachfront property with infinity pools and spa treatments
The Dead Sea is one of Jordan’s most iconic natural wonders. Sitting at the lowest point on Earth, the lake’s salt concentration is so high that floating becomes effortless. It’s an unusual feeling but one that’s relaxing and surprisingly fun.
Many visitors take a dip and then apply the mineral-rich black mud found along the shore. Locals say it has healing properties for the skin, and most resorts nearby offer spa services that use these natural ingredients.
Sunset here is especially beautiful. The light reflects off the calm water, turning the entire scene into a glowing pastel palette. It’s a great place to slow down and unwind after visiting more adventurous parts of the country.
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It’s free, and I honestly check it more than Google Flights. For a limited time only, they are offering 25% off on Premium and Elite to readers of my website, using my special code: JON25)
Plan a day trip or stay overnight if you want to enjoy the pools, views, and peace. Just don’t shave right before you go as the salt will sting more than you’d expect.
4. Amman
- 📍 Location: Amman, Amman Governorate, Jordan
- 🏆 Best For: 🏙️ Urban explorers, 🍽️ food lovers, 🏛️ culture fans
- 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting the Amman Citadel, shopping at Rainbow Street, dining at Hashem Restaurant
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May for warm days and lively street life 🌸
- 🏨 Where to Stay: The House Boutique Suites – Central hotel with rooftop pool and spacious rooms near downtown
Amman is a fascinating mix of old and new. You can walk through ancient Roman ruins in the morning, then sip Arabic coffee at a modern café in the afternoon. The Amman Citadel, perched on a hilltop, gives sweeping views of the city and holds artifacts dating back thousands of years.
Just down the hill is the Roman Theater, still used for performances today. Downtown Amman buzzes with markets, falafel stalls, and colorful storefronts. Grab a bite at Hashem Restaurant, one of the city’s most beloved local spots.
In the newer districts, you’ll find galleries, bookstores, and rooftop bars with great views of the hilly skyline. Amman may be your entry point to Jordan, but it’s more than just a stopover. It’s a vibrant capital where history and daily life blend naturally.
5. Jerash
- 📍 Location: Jerash, Jerash Governorate, Jordan
- 🏆 Best For: 🏛️ Ancient history lovers, 🏺 archaeology fans, 🎭 Roman reenactment watchers
- 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring the Oval Plaza, walking the Cardo Maximus, visiting the Temple of Artemis
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May for blooming wildflowers and mild weather 🌼
- 🏨 Where to Stay: The Olive Branch Hotel – Hilltop hotel with countryside views near the ruins of Jerash
Jerash is one of the most impressive Roman sites outside of Italy. The ancient city, once known as Gerasa, is packed with massive stone structures, colonnaded streets, and detailed carvings that have stood for nearly two thousand years.
Begin at the Hadrian’s Arch, then move through the Oval Plaza, where tall columns circle an open space once used for gatherings and markets. As you continue down the Cardo Maximus, you’ll see chariot wheel marks still etched into the stone roads.
Other highlights include the Temple of Artemis and the large North and South Theaters, both incredibly well-preserved. The site is easy to navigate and feels like a living museum where you can truly imagine life in Roman times. Jerash is a top choice for anyone interested in ancient civilizations and architectural grandeur.
6. Madaba
- 📍 Location: Madaba, Madaba Governorate, Jordan
- 🏆 Best For: 🎨 Art lovers, ⛪ religious travelers, 🧭 history buffs
- 📸 Top Experiences: Viewing the mosaic map in St. George’s Church, exploring the Archaeological Park, shopping for handmade mosaics
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May for sunny weather and colorful city scenes ☀️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Mount Nebo Hotel & Restaurant – Relaxed boutique stay near Madaba’s main attractions and local markets
Madaba is known as the City of Mosaics, and it earns that name at every corner. The town is filled with colorful artwork made from thousands of small tiles, many dating back to the Byzantine period. The most famous mosaic is found in St. George’s Church—a detailed 6th-century map of the Holy Land that still impresses historians today.
A short walk away, the Madaba Archaeological Park displays more beautifully preserved mosaics from churches and ancient homes. You can take your time wandering through and learning about the city’s Christian heritage.
Beyond the history, Madaba also has a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Local shops sell handmade mosaic pieces and ceramics, and cafés serve traditional Jordanian dishes in cozy courtyards. It’s an ideal day trip from Amman or a quiet base for exploring nearby Mount Nebo and the Dead Sea.
7. Umm Qais
- 📍 Location: Umm Qais, Irbid Governorate, Jordan
- 🏆 Best For: 🏛️ Ancient ruin lovers, 🌄 view seekers, 🎨 culture fans
- 📸 Top Experiences: Touring the Greco-Roman ruins, seeing views of the Sea of Galilee, visiting the Umm Qais Museum
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June for clear skies and green landscapes 🌿
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Beit Al Baraka – Restored guesthouse with garden terraces and local food workshops
Umm Qais is a hidden gem in northern Jordan. Once part of the Roman Decapolis under the name Gadara, this hilltop site offers sweeping views of the Sea of Galilee, the Golan Heights, and the Yarmouk River gorge. It’s the combination of history and scenery that makes this place special.
The ruins include basalt stone theaters, colonnaded streets, and old churches that seem to take you back in time. The contrast between the dark stone and the surrounding greenery gives the site a unique look compared to other Roman cities in Jordan.
Today, Umm Qais also has a growing creative scene. Artists, musicians, and chefs use the town’s cultural spaces to host small events and exhibitions. A visit here blends history with present-day creativity, offering a refreshing experience far from the crowds of Jordan’s southern sites.
8. Dana Biosphere Reserve
- 📍 Location: Dana, Tafila Governorate, Jordan
- 🏆 Best For: 🌿 Eco-travelers, 🥾 hikers, 🐾 wildlife watchers
- 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking the Wadi Dana Trail, spotting rare animals, staying in eco-lodges
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May for cool weather and blooming wildflowers 🌸
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Dana Guest House – Rustic cliffside lodge with panoramic views and sustainable design
Dana Biosphere Reserve is Jordan’s largest nature reserve and one of its most biodiverse areas. Stretching from high plateaus to the lowlands of Wadi Araba, the reserve offers a wide range of ecosystems and landscapes that feel untouched and wild.
Hiking is the main draw here, especially the Wadi Dana Trail, which descends from the old village down into desert valleys. Along the way, you might see Nubian ibex, eagles, or even the rare Syrian wolf. The trails vary in difficulty and can be done with or without a guide.
The atmosphere is calm and remote, perfect for travelers who want to disconnect from the modern world. Eco-lodges in the area focus on sustainability and often work closely with local communities. Dana is not just about nature. It’s about learning how people and wildlife coexist in one of Jordan’s most scenic regions.
9. Aqaba
- 📍 Location: Aqaba, Aqaba Governorate, Jordan
- 🏆 Best For: 🐠 Divers and snorkelers, 🏖️ beach lovers, 🕌 history fans
- 📸 Top Experiences: Diving the coral reefs, visiting Aqaba Fortress, strolling the beach promenade
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: October to April for warm sun and great visibility underwater 🌊
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Lacosta Hotel – Stylish city-center hotel with easy access to the beach and shops
Aqaba is Jordan’s window to the Red Sea and the country’s only coastal city. Known for its warm waters and vibrant coral reefs, it’s a top destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. Sites like the Japanese Garden and the Cedar Pride shipwreck offer incredible marine life and crystal-clear visibility.
On land, Aqaba Fortress gives a glimpse into the city’s history, dating back to the Crusader and Islamic periods. There are also nearby ruins of the ancient city of Ayla, where you can see the foundations of one of the earliest Islamic settlements.
The town has a laid-back vibe with beachfront cafés, local markets, and plenty of fresh seafood. Whether you’re into water sports or just want to relax by the sea, Aqaba delivers a completely different side of Jordan. It’s a great place to unwind before or after exploring the country’s deserts and ruins.
10. Mount Nebo
- 📍 Location: Near Madaba, Madaba Governorate, Jordan
- 🏆 Best For: ⛪ Pilgrims, 🌄 view seekers, 🏺 biblical history fans
- 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting the Church of Moses, viewing ancient mosaics, seeing panoramic views of the Holy Land
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May for clear skies and a peaceful atmosphere 🌤️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Grand Hotel Madaba – Comfortable base with easy access to Mount Nebo and Madaba attractions
Mount Nebo holds deep significance for religious travelers and history lovers alike. According to tradition, this is the site where Moses first glimpsed the Promised Land. On a clear day, the views stretch across the Jordan Valley and even as far as Jerusalem and the Dead Sea.
The summit is home to the Church of Moses, where well-preserved floor mosaics depict scenes of nature, animals, and spiritual life. These mosaics are part of what makes Mount Nebo feel both sacred and artistically rich.
There’s a calm energy here, with plenty of space for quiet reflection or thoughtful exploration. The open-air setting and soft mountain breeze make it an ideal place to pause on your journey through Jordan. It’s an easy day trip from Amman or Madaba and adds spiritual depth to your itinerary.
11. Al-Karak
- 📍 Location: Al-Karak, Karak Governorate, Jordan
- 🏆 Best For: 🏰 Castle explorers, ⚔️ medieval history fans, 🌄 scenic overlook seekers
- 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring Al-Karak Castle, walking through underground passageways, enjoying views of the valley
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May for pleasant weather and clearer views 🌞
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Cairwan Hotel – Simple hilltop stay with castle views and easy city access
Al-Karak is best known for its massive Crusader castle that dominates the surrounding landscape. The fortress dates back to the 12th century and played a major role during the Crusades. Today, you can walk through its dark corridors, arched halls, and defensive towers that still stand strong.
Inside the castle, history feels close. Narrow tunnels and vaulted ceilings tell stories of battles, strategy, and survival. Many rooms lead to windows that open up to sweeping views of the Wadi Karak valley far below.
Outside the castle walls, the town of Al-Karak has a lively market and a few small cafés where you can rest and refuel. It’s a lesser-known stop on many Jordan itineraries, but the combination of epic views and historic architecture makes it a worthwhile detour. The castle alone is reason enough to visit.
12. Ajloun Castle
- 📍 Location: Ajloun, Ajloun Governorate, Jordan
- 🏆 Best For: 🏰 Fortress lovers, 🌲 nature enthusiasts, 🕋 Islamic history fans
- 📸 Top Experiences: Touring Ajloun Castle, hiking nearby forest trails, viewing the Jordan Valley from the ramparts
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June for green hills and cool mountain air 🌳
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Al Jabal Castle Hotel – Mountainside hotel with forest views and quick access to the castle
Ajloun Castle is perched high in the green hills of northern Jordan and offers a powerful mix of history and scenery. Built in the 12th century by one of Saladin’s generals, the fortress was designed to protect the region from Crusader invasions. Its strategic location allowed for control of key trade routes.
As you explore its thick stone walls, arrow slits, and circular towers, you get a real sense of the castle’s defensive strength. The museum inside showcases Islamic artifacts and gives context to the region’s medieval history. From the rooftop, the views of the Jordan Valley are expansive and especially striking at sunset.
The surrounding area is full of forested trails and picnic spots, perfect for a slower afternoon. Ajloun Castle is more than just a historical stop. It offers a refreshing contrast to Jordan’s desert landscapes and adds variety to any trip through the country.
