Just a short three-hour flight from Dubai lies the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan — a land that takes you on a journey spanning over 200,000 years of human history. Jordan isn’t just a country; it’s one of humanity’s greatest stories carved in stone, whispered in desert winds, and preserved in ancient ruins.
From the hospitality of its people to the sacred lands and awe-inspiring natural wonders, Jordan invites travelers to connect deeply with both history and heart.
1. Amman: A City of Layers
Highlights: Citadel Hill, Roman Theatre, Royal Automobile Museum, local souks
Begin your adventure in Amman, a city that fuses ancient legacy with modern charm. Once known as Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love, Amman’s skyline is crowned by the Citadel Hill, home to the ancient Temple of Hercules and ruins that echo millennia of stories.
Explore the Roman Theatre, a 6,000-seat marvel still hosting performances today. For a different perspective, head to the Royal Automobile Museum to trace Jordan’s modern transformation. Take time to wander through Duke’s Diwan — a preserved 1940s residence — and enjoy street food from vendors who cook with tradition and pride.
Travel Tip: Visit the souks in downtown Amman for authentic souvenirs and try a cup of local cardamom coffee.
2. Jerash: The Pompeii of the East
Highlights: Hadrian’s Arch, Temple of Zeus, Oval Forum, Roman streets
Venture 50 km north to Jerash, one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the Middle East. Enter through Hadrian’s Arch, and let your imagination run wild as you walk along the ancient Cardo Maximus.
Marvel at the Temple of Zeus, the Southern Theatre, and the remarkable Oval Plaza, once the site of bustling festivals and intense gladiator battles. These ruins offer a vivid look into life during the Roman Empire.
Photo Spot: Snap a panoramic view from the Temple of Zeus overlooking Jerash’s ancient city.
3. Ajloun Castle: A Fortress of Resistance
Highlights: 12th-century Islamic architecture, views of the Jordan Valley
Just 30 minutes from Jerash, Ajloun Castle rises against the skyline — a fortress commissioned by Saladin to repel Crusader invasions. Wander through its well-preserved corridors and imagine the fierce battles that once raged here.
Why Visit: The castle’s location offers one of the best views of Jordan’s lush northern highlands.
4. Desert Castles Trail: Stories in Stone
Highlights: Qasr Al-Kharanah, Qusayr Amra, Qasr al-Azraq
Travel east into the stark beauty of Jordan’s Eastern Desert, where you’ll find the mysterious Desert Castles. Qasr Al-Kharanah was likely a caravanserai, while Qusayr Amra – with its stunning frescoes – is a UNESCO site.
Stop by Qasr al-Azraq, once the base of T.E. Lawrence during the Arab Revolt. History lives in the basalt walls and echoes in the silent desert.
Travel Tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon to beat the heat and capture dramatic desert lighting.
5. Madaba & Mount Nebo: Mosaic Trails
Highlights: Madaba Map, Mount Nebo, Moses Memorial Church
Southwest of Amman lies Madaba, famous for its intricate mosaics. The Madaba Map, housed in St. George’s Church, is the oldest surviving cartographic depiction of the Holy Land.
Nearby Mount Nebo is where Moses is believed to have glimpsed the Promised Land. From the summit, gaze across the Dead Sea towards Israel and the West Bank.
Cultural Tip: Visit local mosaic workshops to learn this ancient art and support local artisans.
6. The Dead Sea: Float in the Lowest Point on Earth
Highlights: Floating experience, therapeutic mud, wellness resorts
Descend to the Dead Sea, Earth’s lowest point at 430 meters below sea level. The hyper-saline waters make floating effortless, and the mineral-rich mud is believed to have healing properties.
Relax at luxury resorts, soak in infinity pools, and watch the sun set behind the Judean Hills.
Health Tip: The mud and minerals are great for your skin — indulge in a full-body mud treatment.
7. Petra: The Lost Rose City
Highlights: The Siq, Al-Khazneh (The Treasury), Royal Tombs, Monastery
A true wonder of the world, Petra is an ancient Nabataean city carved into rose-red cliffs. Walk through the narrow Siq and behold Al-Khazneh, the Treasury — immortalized by Indiana Jones.
Beyond lies the Street of Facades, Royal Tombs, and the majestic Monastery. To truly experience Petra, spend a full day and return at night for Petra by Night, an unforgettable candlelit experience.
Adventure Tip: Hike the Al-Khubtha Trail for panoramic views over the Treasury.
8. Wadi Rum: Mars on Earth
Highlights: Desert camping, stargazing, red sand dunes, rock bridges
End your journey in the surreal landscape of Wadi Rum. Known as the Valley of the Moon, this red desert has been the backdrop for films like The Martian and Lawrence of Arabia.
Take a jeep tour, ride camels with local Bedouins, and camp under the stars. At sunrise, climb a dune or rock arch for an unforgettable view.
Eco Tip: Choose eco-friendly camps that support Bedouin communities.
Bonus: Why Visit Jordan?
History: From Stone Age caves to Roman theaters and Islamic castles.
Adventure: Hiking, diving, desert safaris, and more.
Culture: Bedouin hospitality, traditional cuisine, ancient crafts.
Spiritual Significance: Biblical landmarks and pilgrimage sites.
Accessibility: Visa-on-arrival for many nationalities and modern infrastructure.
Final Thoughts
Jordan is more than a destination — it’s a spiritual, historical, and cultural pilgrimage. It’s where ancient prophets walked, empires clashed, and nature dazzles. From floating in the Dead Sea to wandering the lost city of Petra, your journey here will stay with you forever.
Let Jordan change you. Let its timeless beauty guide your next adventure.
Have you explored Jordan? Share your experience in the comments below or tag us @tunetravels on social media!
