7 Tourist Sites Worth Visiting in Jordan
- +
- -
With its historical ruins, rich culture, and unique natural wonders—including Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World—Jordan stands out as a top tourist destination in the Middle East.اضافة اعلان
Jordan’s diverse attractions, including the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth, attract millions of tourists each year. According to the Jordanian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, 6.4 million tourists visited the country in 2023, with tourism revenue increasing by 27% to reach 5.3 billion Jordanian dinars (around $7.4 billion) compared to the previous year.
The future of tourism in Jordan looks promising, bolstered by economic and administrative reforms, an updated tourism law, and ongoing efforts to modernize historical and tourist sites, according to Amjad Al-Musalmani, former head of the parliamentary tourism and antiquities committee, in a statement to Al Jazeera Net.
Estimated Cost for a Week in Jordan
A one-week vacation in Jordan for two people costs approximately $2,130 (1,510 JOD). This estimate includes accommodation, meals, transportation, and visits to popular sites like Petra and Wadi Rum, according to Budget Your Trip.
Here's how daily expenses typically break down:
$37 (26 JOD) for meals (three meals a day)
$23 (16 JOD) for transportation (taxis + local transit)
$110 (78 JOD) for hotel accommodation
Budget tip: You can significantly reduce costs by eating at local restaurants, using public transport, and staying in 2-star or budget hotels.
Top 7 Must-Visit Tourist Destinations in Jordan
(As recommended by “Visit Jordan,” the official tourism platform)
1. The Rose City – Petra
Carved by the Nabataeans over 2,000 years ago, Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (since 1985) and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Famous for its intricate rock-cut architecture, water conduit systems, and rich cultural heritage, Petra was once a center of trade and knowledge, showcasing the brilliance of ancient civilizations.
2. Wadi Rum – The Valley of the Moon
Known as the Valley of the Moon, Wadi Rum is one of Jordan’s natural wonders. Its surreal, Martian-like landscape is a favorite filming location for Hollywood. Home to nomadic Bedouin tribes, this desert valley offers a sense of serenity, stargazing opportunities, and breathtaking views—an ideal spot for adventure and cultural experiences.
3. Amman – City of Seven Hills
The capital of Jordan, Amman, dates back over 9,000 years and has hosted numerous civilizations, notably the Ammonites, who gave the city its name. Today, it’s a blend of ancient ruins and modern life, with historical sites like the Roman Theater, contemporary art galleries, traditional coffee shops, and stylish restaurants spread across its seven hills.
4. The Dead Sea – Natural Wonder of the World
At 427 meters below sea level, the Dead Sea is the lowest point on Earth. Known for its healing minerals, therapeutic mud, and unique floating experience, it is a hub for both leisure tourism and wellness retreats. A perfect destination to relax while benefiting from the natural resources.
5. Madaba – The City of Mosaics
Madaba is renowned for its Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics, some of which are still crafted locally. It was a key city in the ancient Moabite Kingdom, and its history dates back to the Moabite King Mesha in 1180 BCE.
Top attractions in Madaba:
Mount Nebo: A site of religious significance where Prophet Moses (Musa) is believed to be buried, offering panoramic views of Jerusalem and the Holy Land.
Madaba Mosaic Map: Located in the Church of St. George, it's the oldest known map of the Holy Land, featuring ancient streets and landmarks.
Church of St. John the Baptist: One of the oldest Latin Catholic churches in the region, founded in 1883.
Umm ar-Rasas: A UNESCO World Heritage Site visited by Christian pilgrims, famous for the mosaic floor of St. Stephen’s Church, dating back to 785 CE—the largest preserved mosaic in Jordan.
6. Aqaba – Red Sea Gateway
Located on the northern tip of the Red Sea, Aqaba is a historic city that served as a key trade link for the ancient world. The Edomites and Canaanites were among its earliest settlers over 3,000 years ago.
Popular activities in Aqaba:
Swimming & Diving: Warm waters and vibrant coral reefs make it a hotspot for diving.
Glass-bottom boat tours: Great for viewing marine life without getting wet.
Ayla B12 Beach Club: A modern beach resort offering water sports, volleyball, and more.
7. Bethany Beyond the Jordan – The Baptism Site
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is believed to be the location where Jesus (Isa) was baptized by John the Baptist (Yahya). Located near ancient cities mentioned in the Bible like Sodom, Gomorrah, and Zoar, it is a major pilgrimage site for Christians.
Highlights of the site:
The cave of Prophet Lot: Where he and his daughters sought refuge.
Ancient churches and baptismal pools: Dating back to the Byzantine and Ayyubid eras.
Spiritual and historical experience: At the heart of Biblical history.
Jordan truly is a living museum—rich in heritage, faith, and nature. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or spiritual connection, Jordan offers a journey like no other.
Jordan’s diverse attractions, including the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth, attract millions of tourists each year. According to the Jordanian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, 6.4 million tourists visited the country in 2023, with tourism revenue increasing by 27% to reach 5.3 billion Jordanian dinars (around $7.4 billion) compared to the previous year.
The future of tourism in Jordan looks promising, bolstered by economic and administrative reforms, an updated tourism law, and ongoing efforts to modernize historical and tourist sites, according to Amjad Al-Musalmani, former head of the parliamentary tourism and antiquities committee, in a statement to Al Jazeera Net.
Estimated Cost for a Week in Jordan
A one-week vacation in Jordan for two people costs approximately $2,130 (1,510 JOD). This estimate includes accommodation, meals, transportation, and visits to popular sites like Petra and Wadi Rum, according to Budget Your Trip.
Here's how daily expenses typically break down:
$37 (26 JOD) for meals (three meals a day)
$23 (16 JOD) for transportation (taxis + local transit)
$110 (78 JOD) for hotel accommodation
Budget tip: You can significantly reduce costs by eating at local restaurants, using public transport, and staying in 2-star or budget hotels.
Top 7 Must-Visit Tourist Destinations in Jordan
(As recommended by “Visit Jordan,” the official tourism platform)
1. The Rose City – Petra
Carved by the Nabataeans over 2,000 years ago, Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (since 1985) and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Famous for its intricate rock-cut architecture, water conduit systems, and rich cultural heritage, Petra was once a center of trade and knowledge, showcasing the brilliance of ancient civilizations.
2. Wadi Rum – The Valley of the Moon
Known as the Valley of the Moon, Wadi Rum is one of Jordan’s natural wonders. Its surreal, Martian-like landscape is a favorite filming location for Hollywood. Home to nomadic Bedouin tribes, this desert valley offers a sense of serenity, stargazing opportunities, and breathtaking views—an ideal spot for adventure and cultural experiences.
3. Amman – City of Seven Hills
The capital of Jordan, Amman, dates back over 9,000 years and has hosted numerous civilizations, notably the Ammonites, who gave the city its name. Today, it’s a blend of ancient ruins and modern life, with historical sites like the Roman Theater, contemporary art galleries, traditional coffee shops, and stylish restaurants spread across its seven hills.
4. The Dead Sea – Natural Wonder of the World
At 427 meters below sea level, the Dead Sea is the lowest point on Earth. Known for its healing minerals, therapeutic mud, and unique floating experience, it is a hub for both leisure tourism and wellness retreats. A perfect destination to relax while benefiting from the natural resources.
5. Madaba – The City of Mosaics
Madaba is renowned for its Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics, some of which are still crafted locally. It was a key city in the ancient Moabite Kingdom, and its history dates back to the Moabite King Mesha in 1180 BCE.
Top attractions in Madaba:
Mount Nebo: A site of religious significance where Prophet Moses (Musa) is believed to be buried, offering panoramic views of Jerusalem and the Holy Land.
Madaba Mosaic Map: Located in the Church of St. George, it's the oldest known map of the Holy Land, featuring ancient streets and landmarks.
Church of St. John the Baptist: One of the oldest Latin Catholic churches in the region, founded in 1883.
Umm ar-Rasas: A UNESCO World Heritage Site visited by Christian pilgrims, famous for the mosaic floor of St. Stephen’s Church, dating back to 785 CE—the largest preserved mosaic in Jordan.
6. Aqaba – Red Sea Gateway
Located on the northern tip of the Red Sea, Aqaba is a historic city that served as a key trade link for the ancient world. The Edomites and Canaanites were among its earliest settlers over 3,000 years ago.
Popular activities in Aqaba:
Swimming & Diving: Warm waters and vibrant coral reefs make it a hotspot for diving.
Glass-bottom boat tours: Great for viewing marine life without getting wet.
Ayla B12 Beach Club: A modern beach resort offering water sports, volleyball, and more.
7. Bethany Beyond the Jordan – The Baptism Site
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is believed to be the location where Jesus (Isa) was baptized by John the Baptist (Yahya). Located near ancient cities mentioned in the Bible like Sodom, Gomorrah, and Zoar, it is a major pilgrimage site for Christians.
Highlights of the site:
The cave of Prophet Lot: Where he and his daughters sought refuge.
Ancient churches and baptismal pools: Dating back to the Byzantine and Ayyubid eras.
Spiritual and historical experience: At the heart of Biblical history.
Jordan truly is a living museum—rich in heritage, faith, and nature. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or spiritual connection, Jordan offers a journey like no other.
NEWS RELATED TO