- Petra, Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea are the big three, and a week covers them
- Buy the Jordan Pass before you go to cover your visa and Petra entry
- Spring and autumn are ideal; winter is cold and can be wet in the north
- Royal Jordanian flies direct from London to Amman in around five hours
- Airports
- Amman Queen Alia (AMM), Aqaba King Hussein (AQJ)
- Flight time
- about 5h direct from London to Amman
- Best time to go
- March-May and September-November; November-March for Aqaba winter sun
- Currency
- Jordanian dinar (JOD)
Jordan is small, but it has one of the greatest concentrations of sights in the Middle East. The rock-cut city of Petra is the reason most people come, and it deserves at least two days, but the desert landscapes of Wadi Rum, the salty float of the Dead Sea, the Roman ruins of Jerash and the coral reefs off Aqaba make it far more than a one-sight trip. Distances are short, so a week covers the highlights.
It is also one of the most welcoming countries in the region, with good roads, a well-run tourist industry and hospitality you'll remember. This guide, one of our Middle East guides, covers where to go, when, entry rules and costs.
Where to go in Jordan
Amman
The capital, Amman, is a sprawling city of white stone spread over many hills. Its Citadel and Roman Theatre are worth a day, and it is the natural base for day trips to Jerash, Madaba's mosaics and Mount Nebo.
Petra
Petra, the Nabataean city carved into rose-red sandstone, is one of the world's great archaeological sites. Walk the narrow Siq to the Treasury, then keep going: the Monastery, the High Place of Sacrifice and the Royal Tombs are just as memorable. Stay in Wadi Musa, the town at the gate.
Wadi Rum
The desert of Wadi Rum is all towering sandstone mountains, red dunes and rock bridges. Take a jeep tour with a local Bedouin guide and spend a night at a desert camp under the stars.
The Dead Sea
At around 430 metres below sea level, the Dead Sea is the lowest point on land. The water is so salty you float effortlessly. Resort hotels on the Jordanian shore are under an hour from Amman.
Aqaba and the Red Sea
Jordan's only coastal town has warm water and coral reefs ideal for snorkelling and diving, and makes a relaxed end to a trip. It is also a winter-sun option in its own right, with direct charter flights from the UK in some seasons.
Jerash, Dana and the north
Jerash is one of the best-preserved Roman cities outside Italy. Dana Biosphere Reserve offers hiking and an eco-lodge, while the long-distance Jordan Trail runs the length of the country.
Best time to visit Jordan
| Season | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Spring (March-May) | Warm days and wildflowers; ideal for Petra and hiking, and the busiest season |
| Summer (June-August) | Very hot in Petra, Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea; start early and rest at midday |
| Autumn (September-November) | Warm, settled weather and good conditions for the desert |
| Winter (December-February) | Cool to cold in Amman and Petra, with occasional rain or snow; mild and sunny in Aqaba |
Getting to Jordan from the UK
Royal Jordanian flies direct from London Heathrow to Amman, taking around five hours. Low-cost direct routes from the UK to Amman and Aqaba have been added and dropped in recent years, so check what is running for your dates. One-stop routes via Istanbul or Gulf hubs are also common. Jordan is two hours ahead of the UK in winter and summer.
Entry requirements
British passport holders need a visa, which can be bought on arrival at Amman or Aqaba. Most visitors instead buy the Jordan Pass online before travelling: it waives the visa fee if you stay at least three nights and includes entry to Petra, Wadi Rum, Jerash and dozens of other sites. Your passport must be valid for at least six months. Given the wider regional situation, read the GOV.UK foreign travel advice for Jordan before booking and again before you fly, as rules and advice can change.
Getting around
Hiring a car is the most flexible option: the Desert Highway and the slower, more scenic King's Highway link Amman with Petra and Aqaba, and driving is straightforward outside Amman's traffic. Many visitors use a private driver or join a small-group tour instead. JETT buses run between Amman, Petra and Aqaba.
Money and costs
The Jordanian dinar is one of the world's stronger currencies, so Jordan is not cheap by regional standards. Budget travellers spend around £50-70 a day, mid-range around £100-150, and Petra entry is a significant cost on its own unless covered by the Jordan Pass. Cards are accepted in hotels and larger restaurants; carry cash for taxis and small shops. A tip of around 10% is customary in restaurants, and guides and drivers expect tips too.
Top attractions in Jordan
Historic sitePetra
The rose-red Nabataean city carved into Jordan's sandstone cliffs, best seen over two days.
NatureWadi Rum
Jordan's dramatic red desert of sandstone mountains and dunes, best experienced with a night at a Bedouin camp.
Jordan on the map
Frequently asked questions
How many days do you need in Jordan?
A week covers Amman, Petra, Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea. With ten days you can add Jerash, Dana and a couple of days snorkelling in Aqaba.
Is the Jordan Pass worth it?
For most visitors, yes. If you stay three nights or more and visit Petra, it covers the visa fee and Petra entry for less than paying separately.
Is Jordan safe to visit?
Jordan has long been one of the more stable countries in the region and welcomes millions of visitors. Check the GOV.UK foreign travel advice before you go, as it reflects the latest situation.
What should I wear in Jordan?
Lightweight clothes that cover shoulders and knees are respectful, especially outside Amman and tourist resorts. Bring good walking shoes for Petra and a warm layer for desert nights.
Written by
Thomas Ski, mountains & expeditions editor
Thomas is happiest above the tree line or below the Antarctic Circle. He writes our ski, mountain and polar expedition guides.
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