From the moment I set foot in Jordan, I knew this trip would be one of the most meaningful adventures of my life. This was my second trip to the country, and when I left the first time, I knew I had to come back to see more! Over the course of 9 plus days, I experienced the perfect blend of history, culture, natural beauty, great food, and warm hospitality that make Jordan such a captivating destination. From wandering through ancient Roman ruins to stargazing in Wadi Rum, and exploring the rose-red city of Petra, this journey revealed the many sides of Jordan that continue to inspire me and travelers worldwide.
I wanted to share a little about the history, then the itinerary for exploring this ancient country.
Read more: A Week Exploring Jordan From North To South: From Umm Qais to Petra To The Red Sea*Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. This means that if you make a purchase or booking, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.Travels of Sarah Fay is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designaed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to amazon.com and affiliated sites at no cost to you. All views are my own and honest opinion of my experiences. This was a press trip with Visit Jordan. All views are my own and an honest opinion of traveling here.
A Brief History of Jordan
Nestled at the crossroads of Asia, Africa, and Europe, Jordan is a land of ancient civilizations, layered histories, delectable dishes and natural wonders. From the ancient Nabataeans who carved the rose-red city of Petra, to Roman legions that built cities like Jerash, to early Christian and Islamic heritage that flourished here, Jordan is a country where every stone tells a story.
Today, it is not only a modern nation but also a guardian of some of the world’s most important archaeological treasures and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, making it an extraordinary destination for travelers.
Jordan is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited in the world. Today, Jordan is an Arab country of 11.6 million people, while its capital Amman’s urban area has close to 2.3 million. It is projected to continue to grow. With over 7 UNESCO World Heritage areas, it is a grand place to explore and I hope this itinerary gives you ideas on what to explore.
A Day-by-Day Itinerary of this Jordan Exploration
The journey would start in Amman, the capital. I flew in on Royal Jordanian and I stayed in Amman for the first few nights since many of the places I would visit were nearby.
Day 1: Arrival in Amman
My Jordan adventure began in the capital city, Amman, a vibrant blend of ancient ruins and modern energy. After settling into the luxurious Ritz-Carlton Amman, I explored the city’s highlights including the Amman Citadel and the Roman Theatre, both showcasing Jordan’s Greco-Roman past. I settled into the beautiful suite overlooking the city of Amman from above. The room was spacious and luxurious with a beautiful bathtub, balcony, and sitting area perfect for resting after a long-haul flight.
I began with a Turkish coffee downstairs before heading to dinner at Sufra Restaurant. Sufra is located in a beautiful 20th century villa, serving Levantine dishes and Bedouin food with a modern twist. It was by far the perfect show of Jordanian hospitality for our first night. This is located close by to Rainbow Street so I definitely recommend visiting at night to see the lanterns on Rainbow street illuminated.
Day 2: Jerash & Ajloun- A Perfect Day Trip To The North
If you are looking to make Amman a base, it is perfectly fine because while you can travel slow through Jordan and stay in the cities I mention and totally recommend, sometimes you may find your strapped on time and Amman is so central to get to see many amazing sites including Jerash and Ajloun. The second morning began with a decadent breakfast at Ambros, the restaurant at the Ritz. This has to be one of the most over the top, but worth it buffets. I am talking local breakfast favorites like maneesh (a flatbread with za’atar on top), shakshuka, but other western style breakfast to cook items as well. They even had a chocolate fountain that was quite the display.
Jerash (30 Miles North of Amman/ 45 min to 1 hr)
After breakfast we packed into the car to head to Jerash. Jerash, one of the best-preserved Roman cities outside of Italy and a true open-air museum that encompasses 200 acres. Jerash is about 31 miles north of Amman. Walking through Hadrian’s Arch and the Oval Plaza felt like stepping back in time. The Hippodrome alone could hold 15000 spectators. I stood there imagining the chariots racing by and the crowd roaring. There were also numerous Byzantine error churches as well here so it was unique to see the layers of history here.
Jerash is called the Pompeii of the east, interestingly enough as the sand covered and preserved the ruins impeccably. After enjoying the guided tour of Jerash, we headed to lunch at Dar Ne’meh.
Dar Ne’meh
Dar Ne’meh is a project that supports women, is run by women, and teaches women business through crafts and food at its’ restaurant. This supports women in pursuing their passions while gaining economic independence.
Ajloun Castle
Later, we continued to Ajloun Castle, a 12th-century fortress built by Sultan Saladin’s army. The castle sits on a hilltop offering sweeping views of olive groves and valleys below. Catching this at Golden Hour was by far the highlight of my day. That night, I returned to Amman and enjoyed dinner at Jasmine Restaurant. Tucked away in a 1950s villa in the historic Jabal Weibdeh neighbourhood of Amman, Jasmine House offers a beautifully curated blend of Italian cuisine and Jordanian hospitality. The carpaccio, the pasta, and the food here were fresh and a perfect complement to the evening.
Day 3:Exploring Amman, Jordan
After enjoying another amazing breakfast at the hotel, I headed to explore the city. I have been here once before and did some things like Amman Food Tour, visiting the mosque, as well as different neighborhoods and museums. However, this trip I decided to try some unique experiential experiences.
Tiraz Center
The first stop, the Tiraz Center is an important center of culture and history where you can see traditional dresses of Jordan. It is open Wednesday and Thursday 10 am- 4 pm, and Saturday 11 am- 5 pm. Adults 3 JD and students for 2 JD.
Alazaat Studio
Next, we headed to learn about the art of calligraphy from the esteemed artist Hussein Halzeet. This was such a pleasure to learn the art of calligraphy and see how Hussein uses his studio to share the Arabian identity in design and art as well as share his experience. He has quite the expertise in designing the Jordanian currency and the calligraphy for the World Cup Qatar soccer ball.
Cooking at Beit Sitti
As it was time to get lunch we headed to Beit Sitti to take part in a cooking class and eat. Cooking at Beit Sitti feels like being welcomed into a warm Jordanian home, where stories and recipes are passed down with love. As you chop herbs and stir bubbling pots alongside your “teta,” the aromas of spices and freshly baked bread fill the air, wrapping you in the essence of genuine Arabic hospitality. Sitting down to enjoy the meal you’ve helped create, you taste not just the food—but the heart and heritage of Amman itself.
The Citadel Amman
After enjoying an excellent meal, head to learn more about the ancient communities of Amman at the Citadel. Visiting the Amman Citadel is like stepping into layers of history that stretch back to the Bronze Age, set atop the city’s highest hill with sweeping views of modern Amman below. Wandering among the ruins of the Temple of Hercules and the old palace complex, you can feel the weight of millennia in the stones and the wind-swept panorama. This is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is truly worth the entrance fee for non-Jordanian visitors of 3 JD.
Visiting Local Eats in Amman
This is also located not to far from the old city, where you can visit the local food market. One of the best local food markets to explore in Amman is Souk Al‑Sukar (also known as the “Sugar Market”) in the heart of downtown. It is amazing to wander through seeing the vibrant culture of the market come to life. There are so many food options here nearby, you will definitely leave with a full stomach. My favorite thing to eat in this area is falafel. My first visit to Jordan I headed to Hashem Restaurant. It is a beloved local spot in downtown Amman, famous for its crispy falafel, creamy hummus, and other classic Jordanian snacks. Its casual, bustling atmosphere makes it the perfect place to grab an authentic, quick bite after exploring the nearby market.
Where to stay in Amman, Jordan?
I have stayed in two extremely nice properties in Amman both times I visted. The first time I stayed in Amman was at the Intercontinental Amman and the second time at the Ritz Carlton.
Staying at The Ritz-Carlton, Amman is like slipping into a world where modern Jordanian elegance meets cosmopolitan ease. From the marble-clad lobby scented faintly of jasmine to the panoramic views from the restaurant and bar on the 20th floor, every corner feels designed for quiet awe. Mornings begin at Ambros Bistro, where sunlight spills across tables laid with flaky pastries, local honey, and Arabic coffee strong enough to wake me up from my jet lag.
Dinner at Kenz brings a whisper of Lebanon to Amman. As evening descends, the rooftop bar becomes a scene of golden light, cocktails, and the hum of the city below, and they have a DJ on some nights. The rooms are hushed sanctuaries dressed in neutral tones, with marble bathrooms so pristine and spa-like that even a simple bath feels ceremonial. It’s not just a stay- it’s a study in how luxury can feel both grand and still make you feel at home.
Day 4 Umm Qais in Northern Jordan (2 hr drive from Amman)
Tucked away in Jordan’s lush north, about a two-hour drive (roughly 120 km) from Amman, Umm Qais feels like stepping into a dream woven from history and horizon. The ancient city of Gadara crowns a hilltop overlooking the Sea of Galilee and the Golan Heights, where the ruins whisper stories of Roman poets and forgotten empires. I wandered through basalt streets and weathered colonnades, the scent of wild thyme carried on the wind, before heading a few minutes down the road to Al Baraka Destinations– a community-based haven where slow travel takes root. There, I joined locals for a farm-to-table meal, watched olive oil pressed fresh from the grove, and learned how tourism can nurture both people and place. It’s not just a trip north; it’s a journey into the soul of Jordan’s countryside.
Al Baraka Destinations offers experiences like visiting Yousef’s honey where you can how he makes local products, and honey with his beehives. There are also experiences nearby the Umm Qais archeological site where you can learn about basket weaving and the stone masonry with Roman tools.
It truly makes for a unique experience to connect with locals that have called Umm Qais home. Umm Qais has a small but fascinating archaeological museum housed in a restored 19th-century Ottoman home, Beit Al-Rousan, perched right on the ancient acropolis. Inside, visitors can explore Roman statues, mosaics, pottery, and basalt relics unearthed from Gadara, while the courtyard displays sarcophagi and carved columns overlooking breathtaking views of the Jordan Valley.Its opening hours vary by season: for example summer hours 08:00-19:00, winter roughly 08:00-16:00.
Day 5 Mount Nebo, Mount Nebo, and Petra By Night
The day began with a road trip to Mount Nebo to see the Church of Moses. It is about 6 miles north of Madaba, where we headed next. Mount Nebo interpretive center is located where Moses is believed to have seen the Promised Land that he could not enter. The mountain is significant in terms of culture and religions (Christians, Jews, Muslims). It was amazing to explore.
Next, we headed to Madaba, known for its ancient mosaics, including the famous 6th-century mosaic map of the Holy Land inside St. George’s Church (Greek Orthodox. The Archaeological Park Madaba has marvelous ancient mosaics to explore. It was quite impressive to see the mosaic map and explore the area.
I also visited the women-run Madaba Arts And Handicraft Center, where female artisans create intricate mosaics and jewelry, supporting their families and keeping traditions alive.
After visiting Madaba, it was time to drive to Petra. We checked into the Movenpick Petra and then it was time to eat dinner before heading to Petra by Night. Petra by Night occurs on Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 8:30 PM to 10:30 PM. The experience includes a candlelit walk through the Siq and a projection show on the Treasury, with shows starting at 8:30 PM and ends around 10:30 pm. It currently costs around 30 JD.
Where to stay in Petra?
Staying at Mövenpick Resort Petra is a traveler’s dream, sitting just steps away from the entrance to the ancient Nabatean city- you can literally walk to Petra’s gate in minutes. The hotel blends Swiss hospitality with Jordanian warmth, offering elegant rooms, a rooftop terrace with sunset views, and a lavish breakfast buffet perfect for early explorers. After a long day wandering through the rose-red city, nothing beats returning to its tranquil courtyard and sipping mint tea under carved wood ceilings and soft lantern light.
Day 5: Petra by Day and Wadi Rum by Night
Few places in the world rival Petra (Visit Petra), the iconic rose-red city carved by the Nabataeans. Entering through the Siq and witnessing the Treasury emerge was nothing short of magical. Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, left me speechless. My guide, part of a Bedouin cooperative, shared how his family has lived in and around Petra for generations. I woke up early to explore and hike to the place of High Sacrifice. I had done a traditional tour the first time I visited Petra. You can read more about that here where I hiked the Jordan Trail.
Hike to the Place of High Sacrifice
- Trail overview: The trail begins near the main path past the Theatre and climbs steeply via carved stone steps to one of Petra’s highest accessible points.
- Length & difficulty: Around 2.5 km round-trip (1.5 miles) and takes 1.5–2 hours depending on pace; it’s a moderately challenging climb with rewarding views.
- Highlights: At the summit are two large obelisks and a ceremonial platform once used for Nabataean religious rituals. From here, you get a panoramic view of the royal tombs, the main valley, and the distant mountains of Edom.
- Insider tip: Start early in the morning to avoid the heat, and don’t miss the quieter back trail that descends past the Garden Tomb and Lion Monument.
I recommend having a guide here, but you can also use AllTrails.
After enjoying Petra, I headed back to the Movenpick Petra to freshen up and head to Chocolate Hour before heading to Wadi Rum. Wadi Rum was about a three hour drive from Petra. I arrived to the entrance of the National Park, and got picked up by 4×4 jeeps to take me to the Bubble Luxotel.
Day 6: Hot Air Ballooning over Wadi Rum and Bedouin Lunch in the Desert
Waking up early before sunrise is not everyone’s cup of tea, but waking up for a hot airballoon ride over Wadi Rum made me an early morning person. This was a once in a life time experience, and I was so excited.
The morning began at 4:45 am and we headed into the desert in a 4×4 to have coffee and snacks in the desert as we waited for the balloon to be set up. Floating in a hot air balloon over Wadi Rum feels like drifting through a living painting- endless red sands, sculpted cliffs, and the quiet hush of the desert below. As the sun rises, the landscape glows in shades of gold and crimson, revealing why this place is called the “Valley of the Moon.” It’s a breathtaking way to see Jordan’s wild beauty from above.
After landing we headed back to the hotel to have breakfast and relax before another jeep adventure tour through Wadi Rum. The hotel truly organizes everything here so you do not have to worry much. Next, we headed for lunch in the desert cooked by Bedouins. If you find yourself here be sure to try sandboarding on some of the largest sand dunes in Jordan.
Finally, I had some tea, took in an epic sunset over Wadi Rum, then went back for dinner before enjoying some stargazing.
Day 7: Aqaba & Red Sea
Waking up to a relaxing morning at the Bubble Luxotel was much needed after exploring so much the prior day. It was time to pack up after breakfast, and head to Aqaba. Aqaba was just 2 hours away and it is right on the Red Sea.
I reached Aqaba, Jordan’s gateway to the Red Sea. The Red Sea is known for its coral reefs and vibrant marine life, it’s a diver’s paradise and the most southern city on Jordan’s part of the Dead Sea. On this trip I decided to take a cruise on the water to go snorkelling. But just so you know you can go diving and there are various diving schools like, Aqaba Adventure Divers. While I didn’t dive this visit, I hope to in the future. Aqaba provided a relaxing balance after days of historical immersion. This night the group I was with stayed at the Hyatt Regency Aqaba Ayla, while I had to leave early to head to Amman. I got to experience the pool, beach, and experience a taste of what it is like to stay here.
Day 8: Return to Amman and Fly Home
Jordan is a land that lingers in your heart long after you’ve left- a place where history, hospitality, and breathtaking landscapes come together in unforgettable ways. Whether you’re tracing the steps of ancient civilizations in Petra, floating in the Dead Sea, or sipping tea with locals in the desert, every moment feels like a story waiting to be told. Traveling here isn’t just about seeing the sights; it’s about connecting with people, culture, and purpose – a journey that stays with you, and one you’ll find yourself longing to repeat..
Other Places to Consider
I planned to stop at the Dead Sea on this journey (I had to cut my trip short), but I had been to the Dead Sea the year before. It is a fascinating place and you may love floating so easily.. You can see my article from my prior trip by clicking this link; A Guide To A Day Or Two To Visiting The Dead Sea In Jordan.
Below are some hotels to consider on this magnificent trip!
- Ritz-Carlton Amman – This 5-star hotel offers 228 guest rooms and suites, multiple restaurants, a luxurious spa, a rooftop pool, and a state-of-the-art fitness center. The Ritz had a great number of eating options and I loved my stay here. It is a great jumping off point for places near Amman.
- Mövenpick Resort Petra – Steps from the Petra entrance, this hotel features 183 rooms, a rooftop garden, fitness center, and relaxing pool.
- Wadi Rum Luxotel – Camp – Desert stargazing experience with Bedouin family-run hospitality, featuring traditional Bedouin tents upgraded with modern comforts, dining areas, and outdoor fire pits.This is truly a unique experience below the starry night.
- Kempinski Hotel Aqaba – A 5-star beachfront hotel with 200 rooms, infinity pool overlooking the Red Sea, spa services, and a full-service gym.
- Mövenpick Dead Sea Resort & Spa – A resort with over 300 rooms, multiple swimming pools, a wellness spa, and direct access to the Dead Sea shoreline. Read my guide to the Dead Sea here.
Best Time to Visit Jordan and Average Temperatures
The best times to visit Jordan are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when temperatures are mild, averaging 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Summers can be hot, often hitting 100°F (38°C), especially in the Jordan Valley and desert areas, while winters are cooler and sometimes rainy, with Petra and Amman dipping into the 40s°F (5°C to 9°C). I tend to travel to hotter locations during the shoulder seasons to make sightseeing and outdoor adventures much more comfortable.
Is Jordan safe to visit?
I addressed if Jordan is safe to visit in the caption of this reel on Instagram.After visiting twice I can say the people as well as the country is relatively secure, and I always felt welcomed.
Get Travel Insurance and Coverage for Your Journey To Jordan
When I visited Jordan I used Safetywing as it was easy for me as a digital nomad to set up. I would look into travel insurance or if you are looking for something to start while you are on the road Safetywing.
Packing Tips for Jordan
When preparing for Jordan, I suggest dressing conservatively to respect cultural norms (especially for women). Lightweight, breathable fabrics are ideal for daytime exploring, while a scarf or shawl is useful for covering shoulders or visiting religious sites. Women may also find it practical to bring a skirt or loose pants, while comfortable walking shoes are essential for Petra and Jerash. Generally, it may be helpful to have an outfit that covers your knees if you also plan to be near holy sites. Last, don’t forget a swimsuit for the Dead Sea and Red Sea, and a light jacket for cooler evenings in the desert.
The Journey Through Jordan was Awesome!
A journey through Jordan combines history, culture, adventure, great cuisine and relaxation. I stood where prophets once walked, explored the rose-red city of Petra, flew in a hot air balloon and gazed at galaxies from the Wadi Rum desert. With so many historic sites like Petra, Wadi Rum, Bethany Beyond the Jordan, and Quseir Amra, Jordan is a destination that blends spirituality and wonder with warm hospitality.
What made this trip truly special was the chance to meet local women entrepreneurs, artisans, and guides, while learning more about Jordan’s culture. From mosaic makers in Madaba to Bedouin jewelry cooperatives in Little Petra, were great examples of some of the local artistry. Jordan has been one of the longest occupied ancient cities and its treasures are there to explore. In the end, there is so much in ancient sites to explore and I will likely return again. While I went on my own to Jordan, I felt comfortable bringing my mother on the next adventure to Jordan!
As I always say, enjoy the journey!
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