Jordan is a land of ancient wonders, breathtaking landscapes, and deep-rooted traditions. It’s a place where history whispers through stone-carved cities, deserts glow under star-filled skies, and hospitality welcomes you at every turn. Whether you’re fascinated by archaeology, drawn to nature, or love immersing yourself in new cultures, Jordan offers something unforgettable.

For travelers seeking inspiration, here is a carefully curated list of the best things to do in Jordan. Each experience brings you closer to the heart of the country and highlights why traveling to Jordan is such a rewarding journey.

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1. Visit the “Lost City” of Petra

Petra is Jordan’s crown jewel and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Hidden for centuries and rediscovered in the 19th century, this city, carved into rose-red cliffs, leaves every traveler in awe. Walking through the Siq, a narrow gorge that leads to Petra’s Treasury, is one of the most breathtaking moments you’ll ever experience.

2. Hike to the Monastery

The Monastery (Ad-Deir) is one of Petra’s grandest monuments, even larger than the Treasury. Reaching it requires climbing about 800 stone steps, but every step offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. At the top, you’re rewarded with a monumental facade that dwarfs the crowds, a perfect spot for photos and reflection.

3. See Petra by Night

Petra by Night transforms the ancient city into a magical dreamscape. As you walk the Siq illuminated by candles, the atmosphere becomes almost mystical. At the Treasury, hundreds of lanterns flicker while Bedouin musicians play traditional songs, creating an unforgettable experience that reveals Petra’s spiritual and timeless side.

4. Explore Little Petra

Often overshadowed by its larger neighbor, Little Petra (Siq al-Barid) is a hidden treasure. This archaeological site was likely a trading suburb of Petra and offers fascinating rock-cut structures without the same level of crowds. Wandering through its narrow passageways and caves gives you a quieter, more intimate glimpse into Nabataean life.

5. Float in the Dead Sea

The Dead Sea, Earth’s lowest point at 430 meters below sea level, is unlike anywhere else. Its high salt concentration makes it impossible to sink, so you can float effortlessly on the surface. Smearing yourself with mineral-rich mud is not only fun but also believed to have healing and skin-nourishing benefits. Nearby resorts offer spa treatments that make the experience even more relaxing.

6. Go Wild in Wadi Rum

Wadi Rum, known as the Valley of the Moon, is one of the most striking deserts in the world. Towering sandstone cliffs, endless dunes, and natural arches create a surreal landscape. Its beauty is so unique that filmmakers often use it as a stand-in for Mars and otherworldly places.

7. Take a 4×4 Tour to Enjoy Sunset Among the Red Rocks

Exploring Wadi Rum by jeep allows you to cover vast distances while stopping at hidden canyons, ancient rock carvings, and scenic viewpoints. Sunset here is pure magic—the golden light washes over the red desert, casting dramatic shadows that photographers dream of capturing.

8. See Jordan’s Famous Film Locations

If you’re a movie lover, you’ll recognize Wadi Rum from epic films such as Lawrence of Arabia, The Martian, and Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker. Standing in these locations gives you the sense of stepping right into cinematic history.

Experience Epic Stargazing

With minimal light pollution, Wadi Rum is a stargazer’s paradise. Spend the night in a Bedouin camp, and you’ll witness the Milky Way stretching across the sky. Some camps even offer telescopes and guided stargazing experiences for an even deeper connection with the night sky.

Ride a Camel at Sunrise

Begin your day with a camel ride through the desert as the first light of dawn paints the landscape in soft pinks and oranges. The stillness of the desert at sunrise is deeply moving and a moment you’ll remember long after your trip ends.

10. Explore the Ruins in Jerash

Often called the “Pompeii of the East,” Jerash is one of the best-preserved Roman cities outside Italy. Walking along its colonnaded streets and entering its enormous theaters brings history to life. The Hippodrome once hosted thrilling chariot races, while the Oval Plaza remains a marvel of Roman urban planning. Visiting Jerash offers a vivid reminder of the empire’s reach into the Middle East.

11. Visit the Citadel in Amman

Perched on one of Amman’s seven hills, the Citadel combines breathtaking city views with layers of history. The Temple of Hercules, Roman walls, and Umayyad Palace ruins tell stories of empires that once thrived here. The small Archaeological Museum adds depth with artifacts spanning thousands of years. Sunset at the Citadel, with the city bathed in golden light, is especially memorable.

13. Be Awestruck by the Mosaics in Madaba

Madaba is famous for its mosaics, the most celebrated being the 6th-century mosaic map in St. George’s Church. This detailed artwork depicts Jerusalem and the Holy Land, offering both artistic beauty and historical insight. Beyond this, the town has many mosaic workshops where you can watch artisans practice this ancient craft and even purchase a piece to take home.

14. View the Promised Land from Mount Nebo

Mount Nebo holds profound religious significance as the place where Moses is said to have viewed the Promised Land. On clear days, you can see across the Jordan Valley to the Dead Sea and Jerusalem. A church and memorial at the summit house mosaics and artifacts that honor the site’s biblical importance.

15. Experience Bedouin Lifestyle

Hospitality is central to Bedouin culture, and spending time with Bedouins is one of the most enriching experiences in Jordan. Whether you’re drinking sweet tea in a goat-hair tent, listening to stories around the fire, or tasting freshly baked bread from a sand oven, you’ll gain insight into a lifestyle that values simplicity, tradition, and community.

16. Relive the Revolt in Lawrence of Arabia

The Arab Revolt during World War I, famously portrayed in *Lawrence of Arabia*, left its mark on Wadi Rum. Today, you can visit sites linked to T.E. Lawrence and imagine the battles and alliances that shaped modern Middle Eastern history. The desert itself becomes a living backdrop to this remarkable story.

17. Hear the Call to Prayer

When traveling to Jordan, one of the most memorable cultural moments is hearing the call to prayer. Five times a day, mosques broadcast this spiritual chant across cities, towns, and even remote villages. Pausing to listen, whether in Amman’s bustling streets or Wadi Rum’s silence, creates a moment of reflection and connection.

18. Marvel at the Beauty of King Abdullah Mosque

Amman’s King Abdullah I Mosque, with its striking blue dome and intricate Islamic design, is both a religious site and a cultural landmark. It’s one of the few mosques in Jordan open to non-Muslim visitors, allowing travelers to appreciate its artistry while learning about Islamic traditions and practices.

19. Explore the History of Christianity at the Baptismal Site of Jesus Christ

Bethany Beyond the Jordan, located near the Dead Sea, is recognized as the site where John the Baptist baptized Jesus. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it attracts pilgrims and travelers alike. Walking among ancient ruins, churches, and baptismal pools connects you with one of Christianity’s most sacred moments.

20. Scuba Dive in the Red Sea near Aqaba

Jordan may be known for deserts and ruins, but Aqaba adds a seaside surprise. Its Red Sea coastline is perfect for snorkeling and diving. Colorful coral reefs, schools of tropical fish, and shipwrecks like the Cedar Pride make it a must for underwater enthusiasts. Clear, warm waters make it ideal year-round.

21. Hike in the Jordanian Wilderness in Dana Biosphere Reserve

Dana Biosphere Reserve is Jordan’s largest nature reserve, protecting a dramatic mix of ecosystems. Hiking here can take you through rugged cliffs, lush valleys, and remote desert plateaus. The reserve is home to rare species like the Nubian ibex, and eco-lodges within the area give you a chance to stay close to nature.

22. Immerse Yourself in Jordan’s Landscape at Feynan Eco-Lodge

Hidden in the Dana Biosphere Reserve, Feynan Eco-Lodge is a model of sustainable tourism. Powered entirely by solar energy, it blends eco-friendly practices with local Bedouin traditions. Candlelit dinners, stargazing from the rooftop, and guided nature walks make it one of the most unique places to stay in Jordan.

23. Hike or Bike the Jordan Trail

Stretching over 650 kilometers, the Jordan Trail is an epic adventure crossing the entire country. While completing the whole route takes weeks, even shorter sections offer incredible scenery, from forests in the north to deserts in the south. Hiking or biking this trail is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in Jordan’s natural beauty.

24. Go Canyoneering in Wadi Mujib

Wadi Mujib, often called Jordan’s Grand Canyon, is a paradise for adventure lovers. Here, you can trek through water-filled gorges, scramble over rocks, and slide down waterfalls. It’s challenging yet rewarding, offering both adrenaline and breathtaking scenery in a protected nature reserve.

25. Soak it all in at Ma’in Hot Springs

Ma’in Hot Springs, located near the Dead Sea, are a natural oasis where warm mineral waters cascade into therapeutic pools. Surrounded by rugged mountains, the setting is as beautiful as it is relaxing. Many travelers stop here after exploring Jordan’s major sites, making it the perfect way to unwind.

26. Practice the Art of Haggling at Amman Souks

No trip to Jordan is complete without wandering the lively souks of Amman. Stalls overflow with spices, textiles, jewelry, and handmade crafts. Bargaining isn’t just expected—it’s part of the experience. Chatting with vendors gives you insight into local life while letting you take home a special piece of Jordan.

27. Stroll down Rainbow Street

Rainbow Street is Amman’s most vibrant boulevard, filled with cafes, art galleries, and boutique shops. It’s the perfect place to relax after sightseeing, sample local food, or enjoy the city’s youthful energy. In the evenings, the street comes alive with music and nightlife, making it a must for every visitor.

28. Sample Jordanian Foods Across the Country

Jordanian cuisine is a journey of its own. Try mansaf, the national dish of lamb cooked with yogurt sauce and served over rice. Savor falafel and hummus from street vendors, enjoy mezze spreads, and don’t miss kanafeh, a sweet pastry layered with cheese and syrup. Food is more than a meal here—it’s a way of experiencing Jordanian culture.

Final Thoughts

This expanded list of the best things to do in Jordan shows just how much the country offers. From world-renowned landmarks like Petra to hidden gems in nature reserves and local souks, Jordan blends history, adventure, and hospitality in a way few countries can. For those traveling to Jordan, every moment is an opportunity to discover something extraordinary.

Whether you’re gazing at mosaics in Madaba, stargazing in Wadi Rum, or floating in the Dead Sea, Jordan will capture your heart and leave you with stories you’ll carry forever.