Jordan is a country filled to the brim with incredible culture and outstanding natural beauty – think incredible desert landscapes, rich history and great food, as well as the famous Treasury at Petra! Our Jordan 7-day itinerary has been designed to incorporate all the best bits, as well as some hidden gems, to ensure you have the trip of a lifetime!
Essential tips
Before we jump in to the ultimate itinerary, these are the essential things to know:
When should I visit Jordan?
Spring (March to May) is one of the best times to visit Jordan. The weather is mild and pleasant! It is also ideal for outdoor activities like exploring Wadi Rum and Petra.
Autumn (September to November) is also a good time to visit as the weather is also milder as the summer comes to an end.
Summer (June to August) can be extremely hot, especially in July and August with temperatures over 40ºC (104ºF). If you can handle the heat, the popular attractions will be less crowded.
Winter (December to February) is generally mild in the daytime, however temperatures can get extremely cold at night time, especially in the desert regions.
Ramadan: keep in mind that during Ramadan some restaurants and attractions may have altered schedules and it is important to be respectful of local customs.
We were in Jordan during Ramadan and, although some restaurants and shops in the cities were closed during the day, many attractions were still open.
What should I wear?
As a tourist, and especially for women, it is advisable to dress modestly, especially in towns and cities. Jordan is relatively liberal compared to many other countries in the region, however it is important to remain respectful.
We would suggest wearing long trousers, dresses and skirts and long sleeves especially in towns and cities. In the deserts and whilst doing more adventurous activities we (male and female) both wore shorts and felt comfortable. When at the beach or in pools it is acceptable to wear swimwear but it is sensible to cover up when out of water.
It is not mandatory to wear a headscarf, however carrying a lightweight scarf can be useful. You can use it to cover your head and shoulders when entering religious sites or in more conservative areas. It is also great for protecting your head from the sun on hotter days.
Please be aware that these are general recommendations and you should also be aware of specific dress code requirements at religious sites or other places you might visit. It’s always a good idea to observe what locals are wearing and adjust your clothing accordingly.
Food and drink in Jordan
We both like an occasional drink but had assumed that we wouldn’t be drinking during our time in Jordan. However you can drink alcohol in Jordan, but it can be very expensive and some Muslim-owned restaurants/cafes might not serve it at all.
It is important that you are mindful of your behaviour, especially during religious events or in more conservative areas.
Most places cater to vegetarians and Halal requirements. You will have to search a little further for vegan-friendly options. A lot of Jordanian food contains nuts, so be careful if you have nut allergies.
The Ultimate 7-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Amman
Amman is the perfect place to start your Jordanian journey. The capital is known as the City of Seven Hills – so be prepared for a lot of steps up and down, but it is a vibrant city filled with great things to see.
Rainbow Street: Wander along Rainbow Street, with its mass of shops, cafes and restaurants. Rainbow Street is also a popular nightlife hub!
Amman Citadel (Jabal al-Qal’a): Explore the ancient Citadel, which houses the Temple of Hercules, the Umayyad Palace, and the Jordan Archaeological Museum. The site provides amazing panoramic views of the city.
Roman Theatre: Discover the well-preserved Roman Theater, a 2nd-century amphitheatre that once accommodated up to 6,000 spectators. It is still used for cultural events today.
Hiking in the Hills: For a different perspective of the city, consider hiking in the hills surrounding Amman. The Jordan Trail offers various hiking opportunities.
Accommodation
We stayed at Hotel Philosophy for 2 nights which was a modern hotel. Our room included a Jordanian breakfast. The rooms were clean and it was in a good location. However if you’re looking for something a bit more authentic or more luxury check out these:
Day 2: Travel to Madaba
Madaba is known as the City of Mosaics and is great to stop by on the way to the Dead Sea! Read our full guide on visiting the ancient city here.
Madaba Mosaics: Explore the city’s numerous Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics. The most famous is the Madaba Map, a 6th-century mosaic map of Jerusalem and the Holy Land located in the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George.
Church of St George: Visit the Church of St. George, where the Madaba Map is housed. The church also has other impressive mosaics on display.
Church of the Beheading of John the Baptist: We stumbled across this church on the outskirts of Madaba but it had a very interesting exhibition of photographs and by far the most interesting acropolis museum which sits underneath the church. It even has an operational well dating 3000 years!
Local shops: with streets lined with shops in the centre containing mosaics and other artwork, you’re bound to find something to pick up!
Day 3: Dead Sea and the Dana Biosphere
Dead Sea
You can’t go to Jordan without taking a dip in the Dead Sea – honestly one of the strangest feelings in the world, but it’s a must to visit the lowest place on Earth!
There are a few places you can go to to swim in the dead sea. There is public access at Amman Beach and costs 25 JOD to enter – note that this is one of the more popular beaches so it can get very busy.
We went to the Holiday Inn Resort and got a day pass. The Swim and Lunch Day Pass gives you access to the beautiful pools, the Dead Sea Beach and a lunch at their restaurant.
We went first thing in the morning and it quickly got warm. Definitely first float in the sea and then come out and cover yourself in mineral rich mud. The mud is believed to have therapeutic properties and is known for its benefits for the skin. Allow the mud to dry on your skin before rinsing it off in the sea.
Make sure to properly wash off all the salt after your experience and for more information check out our full Dead Sea Guide!
Dana Biosphere Reserve
The Dana Biosphere Reserve, located in Jordan, is a diverse and ecologically rich area known for its unique landscapes and biodiversity.
You can explore the various hiking trails that wander the reserve. Dana offers a range of trails suitable for different fitness levels, providing opportunities to experience the diverse ecosystems, from high mountain plateaus to desert landscapes.
Visit the traditional village of Dana, which is perched on the edge of the reserve. The village offers a glimpse into traditional Jordanian life, with its stone houses and narrow alleyways.
Bird watching and stargazing are also great activities to take part in whilst you’re here!
Accommodation
We stayed at the Dana Guesthouse which we would 100% recommend. It is a sustainable accommodation option which provides an authentic experience. You can enjoy traditional meals and hospitality whilst supporting the local community.
Day 4: Petra!
The day you have probably been waiting for! Today you get to see one of the modern Wonders of the World – woo! So Petra is the name of the area and the big wonder of the world is actually The Treasury at Petra.
From the visitors centre just outside the town of Petra and you can walk the canyon straight to the Treasury, however we walked ‘The Back Door to Petra’ which we would recommend way more than the standard route. You’ll have fewer crowds, a unique experience and an amazing adventure to tell – you can read all about it here.
If coming from the visitors centre, make sure (if you are able) to walk the steps to the Monastery – it’s a bit of a walk but well worth it.
Please if you can, do not make use of the donkeys or camels to take you up and down – they are not looked after well at all.
Experience Petra By Night if you have the opportunity. The Siq and Treasury are illuminated by candlelight, creating a magical atmosphere.
We ate that evening at ‘My Mom’s Recipe’ restaurant which served the most delicious Jordanian food.
Accommodation
We stayed that night in Petra at the Petra Palace, which was a perfect location.
Day 5: Wadi Rum
Wadi Rum, also known as the Valley of the Moon, is a stunning desert wilderness in southern Jordan. Known for its dramatic sandstone mountains and unique rock formations, Wadi Rum offers a range of activities for adventure seekers and those looking to experience the beauty of the desert.
Jeep Tours: Explore the vast landscapes of Wadi Rum on a jeep tour. Local Bedouin guides often lead these tours, taking you through narrow canyons, towering cliffs, and panoramic viewpoints.
Camel Trekking: Experience the traditional mode of desert transportation by going on a camel trek. Time it for sunset to get great views and elongated shadows of the camels!
Hiking and Trekking: Wadi Rum offers numerous hiking trails for varying skill levels. Consider trekking to viewpoints like Lawrence’s Spring or to the top of some of the mountains for breathtaking vistas.
Rock Climbing: For adventure enthusiasts, Wadi Rum is a rock climbing paradise. The unique sandstone cliffs and mountains provide excellent opportunities for climbers of different skill levels.
Hot Air Balloon Ride: Enjoy a unique perspective of Wadi Rum by taking a hot air balloon ride. This allows you to see the vast desert landscape from above.
Stargazing: Wadi Rum is renowned for its clear skies, making it an ideal location for stargazing. Spend an evening under the stars and witness the beauty of the desert night sky.
Bedouin Camp Experience: Stay overnight in a traditional Bedouin camp to experience the hospitality and culture of the local Bedouin people. Enjoy traditional meals, music, and storytelling around the campfire.
Stay in a Martian Dome
For an unforgettable experience, you must stay in a Martian dome overnight. Nothing quite compares to sleeping with the curtains wide open, watching the beautiful night-sky as you drift off to sleep and awaken with the sunrise over the Mars-like orange sand.
We stayed at Sun City Camp – the domes were high quality and clean, and the food in the main (ginormous) dome was amazing. The staff can even arrange for a sunrise hot air balloon or nighttime stargazing experience in the desert.
Day 6: Aqaba
Aqaba, located on the Red Sea in the southern part of Jordan, is a vibrant city known for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and historical sites. Here are some things to do in Aqaba:
Boat tour: Take a boat tour to discover the Red Sea from a different perspective. Some tours may include snorkelling, diving, or simply cruising along the coastline.
Diving/snorkelling: Explore the colourful coral reefs and marine life in the Red Sea. Aqaba is renowned for its excellent diving opportunities. Popular sites include the Japanese Gardens and the Cedar Pride wreck and you can even dive in and around a sunken aircraft!
Aqaba Castle (Mamluk Castle): Explore the historic Aqaba Castle, also known as the Mamluk Castle. The castle dates back to the 16th century and offers panoramic views of the city.
Day 7: Jerash
After spending some time in Aqaba, travel back to Amman and just 45 minutes away, you can take a day trip to Jerash. Located in northern Jordan, Jerash is known for its well-preserved ancient ruins, particularly from the Roman period.
Explore the Roman Ruins: Visit the archaeological site of Jerash, often referred to as the “Pompeii of the East.” Explore the well-preserved ruins of the Roman city, including the Oval Plaza, Hadrian’s Arch, and the Cardo Maximus (main street). Make sure you check out Hadrian’s Arch, the North and South Theatre, the Temple of Artemis and the Hippodrome!
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