Are you planning a trip to Jordan and wondering how to make the most of your 10 days? This detailed 10 day itinerary for Jordan ensures you experience the country’s diverse landscapes, historical sites, and cultural highlights.
From the bustling capital of Amman to the ancient ruins of Petra and the serene Wadi Rum desert, this guide covers everything you need for an unforgettable adventure.
Key Takeaways
- Start your Jordan adventure in Amman, exploring key cultural sites like the King Abdullah I Mosque and the Roman Theatre, while utilizing affordable transportation options like Uber.
- Don’t miss Petra and Wadi Rum, where you can experience breathtaking archaeological sites and stunning desert landscapes; guided tours are recommended for a deeper understanding.
- For a seamless journey, consider getting a Jordan Pass for attraction access, and use the JETT bus service or rental cars for convenient travel between cities.
- Book with Wadi Tribe, to get an all-inclusive and worry-free experience of Wadi Rum along with a free Jordan Digital Guide.
- Key Takeaways
- 3 Things to Consider before Starting your 10 Day Jordan Trip
- What to Do in 10 Days in Jordan
- 7 Off-the-Beaten-Path Activities to Add to Your Jordan Itinerary
- The Bottom Line
- FAQs
3 Things to Consider before Starting your 10 Day Jordan Trip
Before you make your way to Jordan just yet, consider these three things. These are three things we wish we would have known before travelling to Jordan for the first time:
- Get Your Hands on the Jordan Pass: To make the most of your 10 days in Jordan itinerary, consider purchasing a Jordan Pass. This pass waives the visa fee and provides entry to many attractions, including Petra and Wadi Rum, plus a free historic train ride.
- Take Advantage of JETT Bus: Using the JETT bus service is a convenient and affordable way to get around, with good connectivity to key cities and attractions. Within cities, use ridesharing apps for hassle-free transfers. For more flexibility, get familiar with local mini buses.
- Save Money on Bookings: For the best experience in Wadi Rum, book an all-inclusive package beforehand, as it can save you a lot of time and money.
What to Do in 10 Days in Jordan
In 2023, we spent a full month travelling Jordan from Wadi Rum all the way up to Amman. After exploring the country from the magical desert to the bustling capital city, these are the things we would day, when coming back for a 10 day Jordan trip:
Day 1-2: Explore Amman Citadel and Jordan’s Capital
Your 10 day Jordan itinerary begins as you touch down at Queen Alia International Airport in Amman. Download one of the international ridesharing apps that also operate in Jordan to ensure a cheap and seamless transfer to the center. Generally, we can recommend ridesharing apps to navigate Amman as they are easy to use and quite cheap.
For our stay in Jordan’s capital city, we opted for The Cabin Hostel, which provided a cozy and budget-friendly place to rest and adjust to jet lag before diving into our Jordan itinerary. If you are not into hostels, however, there is plenty of other options in Amman. Rest up and get ready for the first day of your Jordan itinerary.
Explore Downtown Amman
Downtown Amman is a treasure trove of history and culture, and it’s all within walking distance. Start your exploration at the Amman Citadel, where ancient Roman ruins give you a glimpse into ancient Amman. On the same hilltop, you will also find an ancient Roman temple of Hercules, ruins of a Byzantine church and an Umayyad palace from the 8th century.
The Roman Theater, dating back to the 2nd century AD, is another must-visit landmark that can seat 6,000 spectators. This theater is located in Downtown Amman and just a short walk from most central hotels including The Cabin Hostel. From there, take the chance to pop by the market area in the center where you can buy fresh produce, tasty shawarma, tempting desserts and cardamom coffee.
Make sure to visit some of Amman’s staple restaurants to end your Amman day, such as Habibah’s. Habibah Sweets is one of the – if not the – most iconic food spots of Amman, renowned for its Nabulsi Kunafah. For the best falafel in Amman, we recommend paying a visit to Hashem’s across the street from Habibah’s.
Hidden Gem: Book a free walking tour of Downtown Amman to learn more about the city’s history, culture and food. We took a city tour and not only learned a bunch, but also got the chance to try Jordanian food on the market. 10/10, would recommend!
Get to Know Modern Amman
On your second day, give your perspective of Amman a little spin as you steer away from historical monuments. Take a stroll down Rainbow Street, the heart of stylish dining, shopping, and nightlife in Amman.
Visit the numerous Palestinian businesses and along Rainbow Street for quirky souvenirs, pop by The Good Bookshop, a mix of bookshop and coffee shop, to sip a coffee and learn about the Middle East and secure some second-hand grails at Authentage.
Talking about second-hand clothing, there is another gem waiting for you in Amman. Every Friday, the fittingly-named Friday Market takes place in Amman, boasting a wide array of second-hand clothing, antiques and other useful goods. Make sure to pop by the Friday Market, if you happen to be in Amman in a Friday.
Day 3: Make a Day Trip to the Ancient City of Jerash and Ajloun Castle
On Day 3, embark on a day trip to Jerash and Ajloun Castle. The journey from Amman to Jerash is a scenic 45-minute drive, which can be easily arranged via taxi or a collective bus from the North Bus Station of Amman. Alternatively, consider booking a full-day tour that includes transportation and guided visits to both sites.
Ancient Roman Ruins & Ajloun Castle
Jerash, often referred to as the Pompeii of the East, is one of the best-preserved Roman provincial cities in the Middle East.
As you wander through the stone streets of the ancient city, you’ll encounter ancient ruins like The Forum, the Temple of Artemis, and Hadrian’s Arch, which stands at an impressive 42 feet tall. The colonnaded streets, grand theatres, and oval plaza are a testament to the city’s vibrant culture.
Moreover, Ajloun Castle, built in the 12th century, served as a strategic stronghold against Crusader attacks. This crusader castle is located only 30 minutes from Jerash a great stop, if you are doing a day trip in your own car or joining a tour.
Day 4-5: Explore the Lost City of Petra
No visit to Jordan is complete without exploring Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Wonders of the World. Therefore, on Day 4 of your Jordan itinerary, it is time to start heading South.
Book a JETT Bus online and make your way to the modern-day settlement of Wadi Musa, which serves as the gateway to the Rose City of Petra. If you are travelling by rental car or taxi, we recommend you to make a stop at Dana Biosphere Reserve, Jordan’s largest nature reserve, before making your way to Petra.
Visit the Petra Archaeological Park
Petra, also known as the Rose City, is an ancient Nabataean city that served as a major trading hub in antiquity. After being practically abandoned, the city of Petra was lost to Western knowledge, until a Swiss explorer ‘re-discovered’ it with the help of local Bedouins. In 1985, Petra was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Later, it started competing in popularity with other famous sites such as the Great Pyramids of Giza in Egypt.
Today, Petra is famous for its breathtaking archaeological sites. The stunning archaeological sites carved from rose-red sandstone cliffs, including a treasury, a monastery, a temple, a Roman amphitheater and various royal tombs, are what make Petra so alluring.
Allocate 8 to 10 hours for a single-day visit to cover all the highlights, including The Treasury and the Monastery. As the whole complex stretches over several kilometres, we recommend you to wear comfortable shoes and to bring enough water along with some snacks. It’s best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds. A single-day ticket costs 50 JD, and the gates open at 6 am, allowing for an early start.
However, we strongly recommend booking the Jordan Pass before starting your trip to save on visa fees and attractions. The Jordan Pass already includes your entrance to the archaeological site of Petra. Just make sure to present your pass at the Petra Visitor Center
Experience Petra by Night
Petra by Night is a magical experience where The Treasury is illuminated by over 1,500 candles. This event takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, featuring traditional music and cultural performances. If you have time and energy left after a long day of exploring, this is another must-see.
The Petra By Night experience is not included in the Jordan Pass, however. Make sure to book tickets to the experience online or at the ticket counters at Petra Visitor Center.
Beyond the Monuments
Petra is not only nice to look at. In fact, it is the sight of a rich history unlike many others on this planet. Once upon a time, Petra was inhabited by the so-called Nabataeans, a semi-nomadic civilisations predating the Bedouins.
Visit the Petra Museum to learn about the Nabataeans and their fascinating history. For visitors of the Petra Archaeological Site, the entry to the Petra Museum is free. The whole visit should take you about an hour.
After that, it is time to check out of your hotel and move on to your next destination, Amman. If you are travelling by bus, make sure to catch the 5 p.m. connection between Petra and Aqaba, to continue your journey. If you are travelling by rental car or taxi, you are looking at a two hour drive.
Day 6: Scuba-Dive in Aqaba and the Red Sea
Aqaba, a resort town on the Red Sea, offers a variety of activities, including diving, snorkeling, and exploring local markets just two hours South of the arid gorges of Petra. Known for its world-class diving sites and vibrant coral reefs, Aqaba is a haven for water enthusiasts.
Aqaba is the perfect half-way point in your 10-day Jordan itinerary to relax and refuel your batteries before heading into the desert. Accommodations in Aqaba range from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts, ensuring there’s something to suit every traveler’s needs.
Boutique Hotels & Beach Resorts
Take a chance in Aqaba and treat yourself to a relaxing hotel stay for one night. Luxury hotels in Aqaba offer exclusive access to private beaches and premium amenities. High-end beach resorts often offer a private beach and various water sports, ensuring a fun-filled day by the Red Sea.
We opted for Bratus Hotel Aqaba located further away from the beach. This boutique hotel stands out with elegant rooms, incredible service and a fantastic breakfast in the adjacent restaurant. Get a good night’s sleep and wake up to Eggs Royale and a wide array of Middle Eastern classics along with delicious Arabian black tea.
Depending on which types of activities you enjoy, Aqaba will be your perfect chance to go for a dive in the Red Sea and explore Jordan’s only sea access or to learn even more about the country’s history by paying a visit to Aqaba Castle.
Day 7-8: Explore the Wadi Rum Desert
After your exquisite Aqaba breakfast, it is time to catch yet another bus. Venture into the Wadi Rum desert, a UNESCO-recognized site spanning approximately 74,000 hectares.
To get to Wadi Rum, take the daily JETT Bus from Aqaba to Wadi Rum Village at 8 a.m. or make your way there by rental car or taxi. For more advice on the transfer, consult our guide “How to Get to Wadi Rum from Aqaba”.
Getting to Wadi Rum will take just shy of one hour with any given mode of transport. Your journey will end in a small town called Wadi Rum Village, at Wadi Rum Rest House, where any buses stop and private cars are parked.
Note: On the way, you will have to stop at Wadi Rum Visitor Center to pay the entrance fee to Wadi Rum. If you hold a Jordan pass, present it to have the fee waived. For more details about the stop at the Visitor Center, consult our “Comprehensive Guide of Wadi Rum Visitor Center”.
Go on a Red Desert Jeep Tour
When visiting Wadi Rum, we strongly suggest booking a tour and a camp stay upfront. Wadi Rum is a vast open desert with many interesting sights and hidden-away desert camps. Booking an all-inclusive tour will allow you to enjoy all parts of it without worrying about transfers and such.
On your first day, your Bedouin guide will pick you up at Wadi Rum Rest House and introduce you to what lays beyond Wadi Rum Village – the red desert.
Take part in a jeep tour to explore the stunning landscapes, including rock arches, ancient petroglyphs, and large dunes of the red desert. To make the most of your jeep tour, wear sunglasses and use a lightweight scarf to protect yourself from the sand.
History buffs will get the chance to get up close with the story of Lawrence of Arabia by visiting Lawrence Spring and Lawrence’s House – a stone-made outpost erected by the Ottomans.
Movie enthusiast, on the other hands, will get the unique chance to revisit filming locations of Hollywood blockbusters such as The Martian, Dune and Star Wars.
Stay in a Traditional Bedouin Camp
On top of that, staying at a traditional Bedouin camp offers an authentic cultural experience. Bedouins have called the desert home for centuries. Their unique lifestyle and customs have allowed them to thrive where little life survives.
Today, Bedouins continue to withstand the challenges of an ever-changing world, and offer touristic experiences to spread the word about their home, culture and cuisine. Savour a star of authentic Middle Eastern cuisine, Zarb, a meal of slow-roasted meat and vegetables, and engage in Bedouin camp life as the sun dips below the horizon.
As your first day in Wadi Rum comes to a close, enjoy some of the best night skies you will witness in your entire life, before crawling into your private Bedouin tent to rest up for your next day of activities.
Go Hiking and Rock Climbing in Wadi Rum
For Day 8 of your 10-day Jordan itinerary, choose your activity for the best way to explore Wadi Rum. Go on a hike or opt for rock climbing to get to know Wadi Rum with your own hands and feet.
At Wadi Tribe, you can book all-inclusive two-day trips including a Jeep Tour, a camp stay and a hike in Wadi Rum, to make the best of your time in the desert and save money along the way.
You’re not an adrenaline junkie? Fortunately, Wadi Rum has lots more to offer besides sweaty hikes and risky climbs. How about a sunrise camel ride, for example? Camels are held in high esteem by Bedouins, making Wadi Rum one of the best places to ride a camel.
Or how about a Hot Air Ballon Ride? Fly over the desert and get stunning views of Jordan and even get a glimpse of Saudi Arabia to the South and the West Bank to the West. Both can be book individually through Wadi Tribe.
Day 9: Enjoy a Relaxed Dead Sea Day
As your time in Wadi Rum comes to an end, you will be transferred back to Wadi Rum Village. From there, you will make your way to the last destination of your Jordan vacation; the Dead Sea. For information about the transfer between Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea, have a look at our long-form transfer guide.
The Dead Sea is situated at 430 meters below sea level, making it the lowest point on Earth. It’s well-known for its salty waters that make you float like a wooden plank. Enjoy a relaxing day at the Dead Sea, where you can spend a day enjoying its unique waters and therapeutic properties such as the Dead Sea mud.
Begin your Dead Sea Day, by floating in the Dead Sea, with its remarkable salinity. To access the Deas Sea, either visit one of the free public beaches or book a day pass at one of the resort hotels on the shores of the Dead Sea.
Apply Dead Sea mud to your skin to enjoy its supposedly rejuvenating and definitely relaxing properties and kick back in one of the Dead Sea’s high-end resorts. We recommend limiting your time in the water to avoid skin irritation. Also, try not to get the salty water into your eyes (we’re speaking from experience here). If you are visiting a public beach, make sure to bring bottled water to rinse off the salt after your swim. There are no showers on the public beaches.
Depending on your budget, you can either book a day pass at one of the resorts to use their facilities orc house to spend a whole night on the Dead Sea before returning to Amman. From the Dead Sea, a short one-hour bus ride separates you from Amman, where you will most likely catch your flight home.
Day 10: Return to Amman
On the final day of your 10-day Jordan itinerary, return to Amman for some last-minute sightseeing and souvenir shopping. Strolling through the bustling souks, you can pick up spices, teas, and fabrics to take a piece of Jordan home with you.
Visit any missed attractions such as the Jordan Museum, take one last stroll of the old city or enjoy a self-guided walking tour to cover additional sights. End your visit to Jordan with a farewell dinner at one of Amman’s top restaurants, such as Al Quds, Sufra, or Fakhreldin, savoring the flavors of traditional Jordanian cuisine.
7 Off-the-Beaten-Path Activities to Add to Your Jordan Itinerary
Have you seen some of the sites on our itinerary already or are you just looking for some lesser-known activities in Jordan? These are some off-the-beaten-path activities for your Jordan trip:
- Dana Biosphere Reserve: Jordan’s largest nature reserve, offering stunning hiking trails through diverse landscapes and rich biodiversity, perfect for nature lovers.
- Little Petra: Got time to spare in Petra? Venture out to Little Petra to explore the city’s lesser frequented smaller brother.
- Wadi Mujib Siq Trail: A thrilling water hike through a canyon with waterfalls and pools, requiring water shoes; a fantastic adventure for active travelers.
- Ajloun Forest Reserve: A lush green area with walking trails and wildlife, providing a refreshing contrast to Jordan’s desert landscapes.
- Al-Maghtas (Bethany Beyond the Jordan): The baptism site of Jesus on the Jordan River, a sacred and peaceful place with archaeological remains and spiritual importance. Jordan Pass holders get a discount.
- Karak Castle: A large Crusader castle with fewer tourists than Ajloun, rich in history and offering impressive medieval architecture.
- Al-Khubtha Trail: Do an extra little hike in Petra to get a bird’s eye view of the Roman theater and Petra. Just make sure not to get scammed on the way.
The Bottom Line
In summary, this Jordan itinerary offers a perfect blend of adventure, history, and relaxation for 10 days in Jordan. From exploring the bustling streets of Amman and the ancient ruins of Jerash to the awe-inspiring beauty of Petra and the serene waters of the Dead Sea, Jordan promises an unforgettable journey.
Book your Wadi Rum trip with Wadi Tribe to make the most of your time in the desert and receive a Jordan itinerary map for easier planning in return. We can’t wait for you to explore the incredible natural wonders and ancient history Jordan has to offer. See you soon!
FAQs
What is the best time of year to visit Jordan?
The best times to visit Jordan are spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). In between, temperatures either reach extreme heat or drop below zero in some places. Trust me, you’ll enjoy your trip a lot more with those mild and pleasant temperatures!
How do I get around Jordan?
Getting around Jordan is best done by renting a car for flexibility, but you can also use public transport such as JETT bus, taxis, or join guided tours if you prefer. This way, you can explore at your own pace and visit those off-the-beaten-path gems!
What should I pack for a trip to Jordan?
You should definitely pack comfortable clothing for the warm weather, sturdy walking shoes, sunscreen, and a hat for protection. Don’t forget swimwear for the Dead Sea and a lightweight scarf for those desert tours!
Is the Jordan Pass worth it?
Absolutely, the Jordan Pass is worth it! It saves you the visa fee and grants you access to top attractions like Petra and Wadi Rum, making it a great deal for your trip.
What are the must-see attractions in Jordan?
You really can’t miss Petra, Wadi Rum, the Dead Sea, Jerash, Ajloun Castle, and the beautiful Red Sea in Aqaba when you visit Jordan. Each spot offers a unique glimpse into the country’s rich history and stunning landscapes!
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