Jordan Travel Guide — Best Cities, Food & Tips

Good to know

Best time to visit

The best time to visit is spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) when temperatures are mild and festivals and outdoor sites are most enjoyable; winters can be chilly and summers very hot, especially in Aqaba and Wadi Rum.

Currency

Jordanian dinar (JOD); carry some cash for markets and taxis, but cards are widely accepted in hotels and larger restaurants

Language

Arabic is the official language; English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants

Getting around

Domestic travel is easiest by renting a car or using private drivers for flexibility—roads are in good condition and distances are short; there are also reliable bus services (e.g., JETT, CTM) and shared taxis between major towns. For Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea, organized day trips and local guides are highly recommended.

Culture & etiquette

Dress modestly in towns and religious sites (cover shoulders and knees); ask permission before photographing people, and accept hospitality politely—Jordanian hosts are generous and direct greetings are customary.

Country highlights

Petra

The UNESCO World Heritage site featuring the famous Treasury and vast Nabatean archaeological complex carved into rose-red sandstone.

Wadi Rum

A spectacular desert of sandstone mountains and red dunes offering jeep tours, camel treks, and overnight stays in Bedouin camps.

Dead Sea

The lowest point on Earth where visitors float in highly saline water and enjoy mineral-rich mud treatments at resort spas.

Amman

Jordan’s capital with a lively mix of ancient ruins like the Citadel, modern cafés, and bustling souks in downtown Rainbow Street.

Aqaba

Red Sea coastal city known for snorkeling and diving on coral reefs, plus a relaxed seaside atmosphere and water activities.

Jerash

One of the best-preserved Roman provincial towns, featuring impressive colonnaded streets, a theatre, and grand temples.

What to eat

Mansaf

Jordan’s national dish of lamb cooked in a fermented yogurt sauce served over rice and flatbread—ideal for sharing.

Falafel

Crisp deep-fried chickpea patties served in pita with salad and tahini, ubiquitous as street food.

Hummus

Creamy blended chickpea dip often enjoyed with warm flatbread as an appetizer or side.

Maqluba

A layered rice, vegetable and meat casserole flipped upside down for dramatic presentation and rich flavors.

Knafeh

A sweet cheese pastry soaked in syrup and topped with pistachios, popular across Jordan for dessert.

Insider tips

Carry a refillable water bottle and use filtered water at hotels; bottled water is widely available.
Respect prayer times and avoid entering mosques unless invited; non-Muslim access is limited at some sites.
Tipping is customary: around 10% in restaurants if service isn’t included, small tips for drivers and guides.
Obtain a Jordan Pass before arrival to save on visa fees and entry to many attractions including Petra if eligible.
Dress in layers for desert nights—temperatures can drop sharply after sunset, even in summer.

Cities in Jordan

Amman🇯🇴 Jordan

Ancient stones, modern hospitality, desert gateways

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Aqaba🇯🇴 Jordan

Red sea reefs, desert history, warm hospitality

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Petra🇯🇴 Jordan

Rose-red city carved from stone

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Good to know — FAQ

Do I need a visa to enter Jordan?

Many nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival, but the Jordan Pass (purchased in advance) waives the visa fee for eligible visitors and includes entry to sites like Petra—check the latest entry rules for your nationality.

Is Jordan safe for solo travelers?

Jordan is generally safe; normal precautions apply—stick to well-traveled areas, register with your embassy if desired, and use reputable guides and transport providers.

Can I use English to get by?

Yes—English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants, and signage at major sites is often bilingual.

How should I get between Petra and Wadi Rum?

The most convenient options are a private transfer, a shared driver arranged by your hotel, or a short domestic bus/taxi ride via Aqaba or Ma’an; many travelers combine both with prearranged tours.

Good to know

Country highlights

What to eat

Insider tips

Cities in Jordan

Good to know — FAQ

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