Things To Do
in Jordan
Jordan is a Middle Eastern country located at the crossroads of Asia, Africa, and Europe, bordered by Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Syria, and Israel. Its capital, Amman, is a modern city sitting atop ancient ruins, reflecting the country’s rich history and cultural heritage. Jordan is home to iconic historical sites such as Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the vast desert of Wadi Rum, known for its stunning landscapes and archaeological significance.
The country is also recognized for its hospitality, diverse landscapes ranging from the Jordan Valley to the rocky hills, and a blend of traditions from various cultures.
- "Marhaba" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Afwan" - You're welcome
- "Inshallah" - God willing
- "Ahlan wa sahlan" - Welcome
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $25 - $75
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic Citadel, where you can explore ancient ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Afterward, stroll down to the Roman Theater and immerse yourself in its rich history.
Visit the Jordan Museum to learn about the country's heritage and then take a leisurely walk in Rainbow Street for some local shopping and cafe experiences. Grab lunch at a traditional Jordanian restaurant and savor authentic local dishes.
As night falls, enjoy a vibrant dinner at a local eatery in Amman, sampling the famous mansaf. Soak in the local atmosphere and perhaps enjoy some live music.
Travel to Jerash and explore one of the best-preserved Roman ruins outside of Italy. Walk through the North Gate, and admire the Temple of Artemis and the impressive colonnaded streets.
Continue exploring the site, taking in the grandeur of the Oval Plaza and the South Theater. Enjoy a packed lunch among the ruins to keep the energy up for your tour.
Return to Amman, and enjoy a relaxed dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of the city. Reflect on the day while sampling traditional Jordanian desserts.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and historical sites, such as Petra and Jerash.
- Stunning natural landscapes, including the Dead Sea and Wadi Rum.
- A relatively safe destination in the Middle East for travelers.
- Hospitality of the Jordanian people, who are known for their friendliness.
- Delicious and diverse cuisine, influenced by Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors.
- Limited public transportation options, making travel within the country challenging.
- High temperatures during summer months can be uncomfortable for some travelers.
- Cost of living and tourism can be relatively high compared to neighboring countries.
- Political instability in the region may cause concerns for some visitors.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options in certain areas.
Best Activities in Jordan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning desert landscapes and rock formations of Wadi Rum on foot with guided hiking tours.
Enjoy the vibrant marine life and crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea with snorkeling excursions in Aqaba.
Experience the beauty of Jordan's nature by camping in the Dana Biosphere Reserve, known for its diverse ecosystems and wildlife.
Witness the breathtaking panoramic views of Wadi Rum from a hot air balloon, offering a unique perspective of the desert terrain.
Tours
Uncover the best of Jordan with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Jordan
Visit one of these nice places.
The ancient city of Petra offers stunning views of the Treasury, the Monastery, and the surrounding rock formations.
The desert landscape of Wadi Rum provides unique photo opportunities with its dramatic rock formations and vast sand dunes.
The Amman Citadel provides panoramic views of the city of Amman and is a great spot for capturing the skyline and historic ruins.
The Dead Sea offers a one-of-a-kind photo opportunity with its calm, reflective waters and the surrounding desert landscape.
Food in Jordan
Jordan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
One of Jordan's national dishes, Mansaf consists of tender lamb cooked in a fermented yogurt sauce, served on a bed of rice with almonds and pine nuts. To experience this traditional dish at its best, visit Reem Al-Bawadi in Amman.
Must-Try!
A popular street food, these crispy and flavorful chickpea fritters are often stuffed into pita bread with salads and tahini. Al Quds Falafel in Amman is renowned for its delectable falafel.
A fragrant dish layered with rice, vegetables, and either chicken or lamb, Maqluba is a culinary masterpiece. Try this dish at Sufra Restaurant in Amman for an authentic taste.
A beloved dessert, Knafeh comprises sweet cheese topped with shredded filo pastry and drenched in sugar syrup. Habibah Sweets in Amman is legendary for its Knafeh.
A creamy dip made from roasted eggplant, tahini, and garlic, Moutabbal is a staple in Jordanian cuisine. For a superb version, head to Hashem Restaurant in Amman.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Jordan better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The bustling market in downtown Amman is a treasure trove for street food lovers, offering an array of Jordanian delicacies like falafel, shawarma, and local sweets.
A vibrant market in Amman, Souk Jara is a haven for street food enthusiasts. You can savor an assortment of Jordanian street food while immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere.
This renowned street in Amman features numerous food stalls and small eateries offering delectable street food delights like falafel, shawarma, and local desserts.
A famous eatery in Amman, Hashem is an excellent spot to relish authentic Jordanian street food such as falafel, hummus, and fresh bread.
This legendary falafel joint in Amman is a must-visit for its exceptional falafel sandwiches and other traditional delights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Jordan, it's customary to greet people with a handshake and a friendly 'As-salamu alaykum' (peace be upon you). It's important to use formal titles and show respect, especially when addressing older individuals or those in positions of authority.
When visiting religious sites or conservative areas, both men and women should dress modestly. For example, women should avoid wearing revealing clothing, while men should avoid wearing shorts. It's important to be respectful of local customs and traditions regarding dress.
Hospitality is highly valued in Jordanian culture. If invited to someone's home, it's polite to bring a small gift as a gesture of appreciation. Additionally, when dining with Jordanians, it's customary to leave a little food on your plate to indicate that your host has provided you with an ample meal.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Jordan with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Jordan
Ensure a smooth experience
In Jordan, tipping is generally expected in restaurants, hotels, and for various services. A customary tip is around 10% of the total bill. However, some restaurants may include a service charge in the bill, in which case additional tipping may not be necessary.
Cash is the most commonly used form of payment in Jordan, especially for smaller transactions. Credit and debit cards are also accepted in many establishments, particularly in larger cities and tourist areas. It's advisable to have cash on hand for transactions in more remote or rural areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Jordan.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Jordan as the weather is mild and the landscapes are adorned with colorful flowers. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the ancient ruins without the scorching heat.
Autumn offers pleasant temperatures and is another favorable time to visit Jordan. The weather is ideal for exploring the attractions, hiking in the nature reserves, and enjoying the vibrant cultural events and festivals.
Summer can be extremely hot in Jordan, especially in the desert regions. However, it's a good time to visit the coastal areas and enjoy water activities. Keep in mind that some historical sites may be crowded during this time.
Winter in Jordan can bring cooler temperatures and occasional rainfall. It's a less crowded time to visit, making it a good option for exploring the historical sites and taking part in adventure activities like trekking and camping.
Jordan at Night
Hiking in Jordan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A rich biosphere reserve known for its stunning canyons and scenic views, perfect for adventure hikes and nature enthusiasts.
This reserve features beautiful oak and pine forests with various hiking trails, offering picturesque landscapes and wildlife spotting.
A significant historical site offering hiking trails with breathtaking views of the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea.
Jordan's largest nature reserve encompasses a variety of ecosystems and offers various hiking trails with diverse flora and fauna.
Famous for its archaeological sites, Petra also features numerous hiking trails that lead through stunning rock formations and ancient ruins.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Jordan through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Jordan by plane.
Located in Amman, Jordan, Queen Alia International Airport is the main international airport serving the country.
Located near Tel Aviv, Israel, Ben Gurion Airport is the main international airport in Israel and one of the busiest in the region.
Situated in Cairo, Egypt, this is the primary airport serving Egypt and one of the largest airports in Africa.
Located in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, King Khalid International Airport serves as a significant international gateway to Saudi Arabia.
Istanbul Airport, located in Istanbul, Turkey, is one of the largest airports in the world and serves as a major transit hub.
Located in Damascus, Syria, this airport is the main international airport in the country.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Jordan, comprising about 98% of the population. They are primarily descendants of the various Arab tribes that settled in the region.
A significant demographic group in Jordan, many of whom migrated during the Arab-Israeli conflict and currently make up a large portion of the population.
A small ethnic minority in Jordan, descended from Circassian exiles who were resettled in the region during the 19th century.
Another ethnic minority, Chechens were also resettled in Jordan during the 19th century and have maintained their cultural identity.
A smaller ethnic community in Jordan, particularly concentrated in Amman and other urban areas, primarily descended from Armenians who fled the Armenian Genocide.
This includes various other groups such as Assyrians, Kurds, and others, who together make up a small percentage of the population.
The Soul of Jordan
Discover the essence of Jordan through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Jordan, with a strong following and numerous local clubs. The Jordan national football team has also participated in international competitions.
Basketball enjoys significant popularity in Jordan, supported by both local leagues and the national team. The sport is prevalent in schools and universities.
Cricket is growing in popularity in Jordan, with leagues and teams emerging, especially among expatriate communities.
Volleyball is popular in Jordan, played widely in schools and at a recreational level. The national team competes in regional tournaments.
Athletics is a prominent sport in Jordan, with various events and competitions held at different levels. Jordan has produced notable athletes in track and field.
Martial arts, including judo and karate, are popular in Jordan, with many clubs and training facilities available for young athletes.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Jordanian cuisine is meat-centric, many restaurants and cafes in tourist areas such as Amman and Petra offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, including falafel, hummus, and assorted mezze.
Though bread is a staple in Jordanian cuisine, some eateries in urban centers are accommodating to gluten-free dietary preferences, offering rice-based dishes and gluten-free bread or wraps.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Jordan with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Jordan.