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7-Day Jordan Itinerary: Jordan Self-Drive Road Trip + Map

ByZara Aitken

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When you think of Jordan, I’m sure you think of Petra and the Wadi Rum desert. After all, Petra is one of the Seven Wonders of the World and is the reason most people travel to Jordan in the first place.

But when I was researching and planning my 7 days in Jordan, I was surprised to learn about many incredible places that I’d never even heard of.

This included the magnificent scenery and hiking trails of Dana Biosphere Reserve, the Roman ruins in Jerash, which are the largest and best preserved Roman ruins outside Italy, and the beautiful beach resort of Aqaba, located on the Red Sea.

Naturally, I was struggling to decide which places deserved a space on my 7-day Jordan itinerary. So, I was thrilled when I teamed up with Visit Jordan. They offered to plan my itinerary to ensure all the best places to visit, and the best things to see and do in Jordan were included.

In this blog post, I will provide an easy-to-follow itinerary for Jordan based on my own trip, with a few tweaks based on what I’d do differently next time.

This itinerary delivers an action-packed 7 days in this fabulous country, complete with recommendations for where to stay in each place, and the best things to see and do along the way, including how to meet locals and experience the real Jordanian culture and hospitality.

Read on for my recommendations for how to see the real, authentic Jordan beyond the tourist resorts!

A view of Dana Biosphere Reserve in Jordan, showing the rugged cliffs and valleys of the Wadi Dana Trail. Sparse vegetation and winding dirt paths stretch across the arid landscape. The reserve is considered one of the best places to see in Jordan for its natural beauty and hiking routes.
A Bedouin guide leads a group of camels across the sandy terrain of Wadi Rum, with towering rock formations in the background. The desert landscape is dotted with small shrubs, and a faint track is visible in the sand. Wadi Rum is a key destination in a 7-day Jordan itinerary for its desert scenery and Bedouin culture.

Summary Itinerary for 7 Days in Jordan

If you’re looking for a quick-fire itinerary to plan your Jordan trip, here’s a summary.

Day 1 – Arrival in Amman, stay in Amman

Day 2 – Petra, Petra Kitchen

Day 3 – Aqaba – scuba-diving, snorkelling, boat trips on the Red Sea

Day 4 – Wadi Rum – desert jeep tour, sunset camel ride, night in a Bedouin camp

Day 5 – Dana Biosphere Reserve – hiking, lunch with a local family

Day 6 – Dead Sea – swim in the Dead Sea, and relax!

Day 7 – Jerash – Roman Ruins, Amman Citadel, Jordanian Kitchen, Amman Downtown

A close-up of a white camel in Wadi Rum, wearing a harness and saddle with red and orange fabric. Another camel is partially visible in the background, along with reddish rock formations. The camel's face is framed by chains, and its large eyes and nostrils are prominent.
Rainbow Street in Amman, Jordan, lined with parked cars and covered with colorful woven basket lanterns hanging overhead. Neon signs, string lights, and greenery decorate the area, with restaurants and shops visible on the right. Rainbow Street is considered one of the best places to see in Amman for its nightlife and vibrant atmosphere.

Day 1 – Arrival in Amman, Stay in Amman

On our first day, we arrived in Amman at Queen Alia International Airport at around 5 pm. As we were travelling with Visit Jordan, we were provided with a driver and a guide, the amazing Emad and Abdullah, who met us at the airport and took us to our hotel.

Depending on when you arrive in Amman, you may have some time to explore the city in the afternoon. If so, I highly recommend heading straight to Amman’s historic Citadel to enjoy incredible sweeping views over the city and learn about the history of Amman.

The ruins of Hercules Temple at Amman Citadel, featuring several standing stone columns with a view of Amman’s cityscape in the background. Broken columns and stone structures are scattered across the archaeological site. A few visitors are seen near the temple, exploring the historic ruins.

Amman Accommodation

On our first night in Amman, we stayed at the Corp Amman Hotel. The 4-star hotel was beautiful and very reasonably priced at around £77 for one night. This didn’t include breakfast (we paid extra for that the next morning), but it does include access to the spa and swimming pool facilities.

The dinner served at the Corp Amman Hotel was fantastic and consisted of a large buffet with plenty of choice for a range of diets. The buffet included salads, stews and curries, rice, flatbreads, baba ghanoush and hummus, as well as kebabs, koftas and shawarma chicken, all freshly prepared in front of you. There was also a generous selection of desserts with many Arabic sweets to try.

If your flight arrives late in the afternoon or evening, Corp Amman is a great choice. If you arrive earlier in the day and want to spend time in Downtown Amman, I would recommend a hotel located closer to the downtown area, such as Hotel Philosophy or Nu Fifty Two.

A buffet at Corp Amman Hotel in Jordan, featuring a variety of Middle Eastern dishes served in clay and ceramic bowls. The spread includes olives, pickled vegetables, fresh salads, and dips, arranged on a chilled counter. A chef is visible in the background preparing food in the kitchen during dinner service.
A twin room at Corp Amman Hotel in Jordan, featuring two single beds with white linens and blue runners. The room includes a wooden headboard, a bedside table with a telephone, and a seating area with two chairs and a round table. Beige curtains cover the window, and warm lighting highlights the yellow patterned wallpaper.

Day 2 – Petra, Petra Kitchen, Petra by Night

On our second day in Jordan, we travelled 5 hours by car down to Aqaba, but to avoid the long drive on your first full day, I recommend driving to Petra instead, which is about a 3-hour drive from Amman. This will break up the journey before heading on to Aqaba the next day.

Our day in Petra was truly amazing. From the first magical glimpse of the iconic treasury as you walk through The Siq, to the stunning and other-worldly landscapes and canyons surrounding Petra, the whole experience blew us away.

A narrow sandstone gorge at The Siq in Petra, Jordan, with towering red rock formations on both sides. A carved stone monument with a decorative facade stands along the pathway, enclosed by a metal fence. The winding canyon serves as the main entrance to the ancient Nabatean city.
A section of The Siq at Petra, Jordan, with towering sandstone cliffs and a sunlit cobbled pathway. Two men in traditional clothing stand near the rock face, one sitting and the other gesturing. The narrow gorge serves as the main entrance to the ancient Nabatean city.

Our tour guide, Abdullah, was so knowledgeable and pointed out things that we would have easily missed without a guide. This really enhanced our experience, so I highly recommend hiring a local guide to provide context, history and point out things you’d otherwise walk straight past.

The Petra site is huge – don’t underestimate how much time you need to see it all. The walk down to The Treasury through The Siq is 2km alone, and the rest of the site needs at least 1-2 days to explore fully, especially if you want to hike to The Monastery.

I also highly recommend paying the 10 JOD to walk up to the viewpoint over The Treasury, as you get incredible views and the chance to take photos without the crowds.

A Bedouin man wearing a long coat and a red-and-white keffiyeh stands at a Petra viewpoint overlooking The Treasury. The carved sandstone facade of The Treasury, with its detailed columns and sculptures, is partially visible behind him. The rocky terrain around the viewpoint is covered in warm-hued sandstone.
Zara sits on a rocky ledge at a Petra viewpoint, looking at The Treasury below. She wears a light-colored shirt, khaki pants, hiking boots, and a dark blue scarf draped over her shoulders. The carved sandstone facade of The Treasury, featuring columns and detailed sculptures, is visible in the background.

In the afternoon, after we’d spent a few hours exploring Petra, I enjoyed a cooking class with the Petra Kitchen. The class was very comprehensive, providing a 2-hour experience in which I learned to cook a variety of Jordanian dishes such as lentil soup, Fattoush salad, tahini salad, baba ghanoush, Mutabal, and Kafta Bi Bandora. And the best part? I got to eat all of the food I’d made at the end of the class.

A meal at Petra Kitchen featuring a large metal tray of Siniyah, a baked dish with minced meat, tomatoes, and potatoes in a tomato sauce. Small bowls of appetizers, including baba ghanoush and fresh salad, are arranged on the table. A man in a dark shirt sits behind the meal, gesturing as he speaks.

Finally, we finished our day with the Petra by Night experience, which was worth every penny. I can’t explain how magical this experience was. From walking 2km through The Siq by candlelight to seeing The Treasury lit up by candles and the moonlight, it was absolutely breathtaking. It wasn’t until we arrived that we realised there was also a live music show.

The Petra by Night experience only happens on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday nights, so be sure to plan your trip accordingly.

The gates open at 8:15 pm, and the show starts around 8:30 pm. The show finishes between 9:30 and 10 pm, after which you will need to walk back up the hill, through the canyon, to the entrance.

A close-up of a glowing orange lantern in the foreground, with The Treasury at Petra softly lit in blue in the background. Additional lanterns dot the ground, creating a path toward the monument. Silhouettes of people can be seen in the distance during the Petra by Night event.
A person stands in front of The Treasury at Petra by night, holding a glowing orange lantern. The monument's intricate stone columns and carvings are illuminated in blue light. Small lanterns are placed on the ground leading toward the entrance.
A dining area at Elan Restaurant in Wadi Musa, near Petra, with wooden tables set with placemats, glasses, and cutlery. Two people sit at a table near the large windows, which offer a view of the surrounding town and hills. Traditional hanging lanterns decorate the ceiling.

For dinner in Wadi Musa, the town where Petra is located, I highly recommend Elan Restaurant. We had great food and service here and even got to see the chef making fresh flatbreads. I highly recommend the Mansaf – a lamb dish cooked in yoghurt.

Petra Accommodation

For our one night in Petra, we stayed at the Esperanza Hotel. This hotel was great value at only £45 per night, which also included breakfast for two people. The owner of the hotel was so friendly, welcoming and accommodating. I will definitely stay here again next time I visit Petra.

Esperanza Hotel has a fantastic view from the terrace at the top of the hotel, where you’ll eat breakfast and is also in a great location, only a 10-minute walk to the Petra Visitor Centre. This meant we could walk to and from Petra from the hotel, without needing to take a taxi.

The Treasury at Petra is partially framed by the surrounding sandstone cliffs as seen from The Siq. The monument’s detailed facade with columns and carvings is illuminated by sunlight. A group of visitors stands in the open space in front of the entrance.
A camel with a colorful saddle rests on the ground in front of The Treasury at Petra. The sandstone facade of the monument, featuring carved columns and sculptures, stands in the background. The camel's harness and decorative fabric contrast with the neutral tones of the desert surroundings.

Day 3 – Aqaba, Scuba Diving in the Red Sea, Snorkelling, Boat Trips

On day three, you’ll drive from Wadi Musa/Petra to Aqaba, a beautiful coastal town on the Red Sea. The drive will take around 2 hours, so leave early to make the most of your day in Aqaba.

So many people visit Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh to dive and snorkel in the Red Sea, but you can also dive in the Red Sea in Jordan.

After checking into our hotel (we stayed in the Nice View Hotel on the beachfront), we headed to Berenice Beach Club for a 2-hour diving experience. Our guide, Rashed, was so helpful and patient when we both got a little anxious about diving.

Zara scuba dives near an underwater structure in the Red Sea in Aqaba. She moves past vertical metal beams covered in coral and marine growth. Sunlight filters through the water, illuminating the sandy ocean floor.
Zara scuba dives in the Red Sea near Aqaba, swimming above a coral reef. A clownfish swims near a sea anemone in the foreground. The clear blue water reveals rocky formations and marine life in the background.

I’d never tried scuba diving as it has always scared me a little, but I told myself I had to do it. I just couldn’t miss this opportunity, and I’m so glad I did. After calming my nerves, I went for it and am happy to say it was one of the most incredible experiences of my life.

The diving experience only costs 35 JOD, so it’s a great opportunity to try diving without having to spend a fortune. If scuba diving doesn’t sound appealing, you can try snorkelling, take a boat trip out onto the Red Sea, or simply relax on the beach.

While in Aqaba, stop by The House of Roses Ladies Association, also known as Bait Alward, for a range of local experiences, Jordanian handcrafts and great food with women from the local community. I also highly recommend Captain’s Restaurant in Aqaba for delicious seafood.

Zara's mum Sue stands inside the House of Roses Ladies Association in Aqaba, looking at a display of traditional crafts on a blue wall. The wall features woven baskets, beaded decorations, Arabic calligraphy, and colorful textiles. A wooden ladder with embroidered scarves and a small table with handmade items are also visible.
A seating area inside the House of Roses Ladies Association in Aqaba, decorated with traditional red and black striped cushions. A patterned wooden screen with geometric designs separates the space. The low seating arrangement and rugs reflect a classic Jordanian interior style.

Aqaba Accommodation

We stayed in the Nice View Hotel, which was a great budget option with a fantastic view over the Red Sea. The hotel is located right on the beachfront and is very close to restaurants and shops. The hotel is simple, but the view really won us over, and for only £30 per night for two people, it was a great choice.

Zara stands under a thatched beach umbrella at Aqaba Beach, holding onto a weathered wooden post. She wears sunglasses, a scarf, and loose-fitting pants while looking up toward the sky. The Red Sea, boats, and Aqaba’s cityscape with mountains in the background are visible.
Two wooden boats with canopies rest on the shoreline at Aqaba Beach. One boat has painted eyes on the front, and both have colorful details and flotation buoys attached. The Red Sea stretches into the distance, with mountains visible on the horizon.

Day 4 – Wadi Rum, Camel Ride, Jeep Tour and Bedouin Camp

My time in Wadi Rum was my favourite part of the trip. I have never seen scenery like it – it’s completely different to any other place I have ever seen on this planet. It’s very clear why Wadi Rum was used as a film location for Hollywood films such as Dune and The Martian. You feel like you’re on another planet!

We booked a desert jeep tour, which started from the Wadi Rum Visitor Centre. We ventured into the desert, marvelling at the epic scenery and rock formations, before stopping for a simple but delicious lunchtime picnic and a short hike in the desert.

We also paid a visit to a Bedouin camp in Lawrence Canyon, where we were offered free tea and the chance to buy some souvenirs that support the local Bedouin communities.

Zara stands on a rocky outcrop in Wadi Rum, surrounded by towering sandstone mountains and red desert sand. She wears a scarf and sunglasses, with her arms raised slightly. A blue off-road vehicle is visible in the distance, parked on the sand below.

We then ventured to Sun City Camp, a large desert camp with Bedouin-style chalets and Martian bubble domes. At Sun City Camp, we enjoyed an incredible sunset camel ride and a fantastic dinner, consisting of a large and varied buffet and a Zarb – food cooked under the sand for 3 hours!

After sunset, we watched the chefs dig the food out from the sand and present it to the crowd of hungry diners. It smelled amazing! The meat was so tender and juicy, and the rest of the buffet was colourful and delicious.

The outdoor seating area at Sun City Camp in Wadi Rum, featuring woven lounge chairs and benches with red and white patterned cushions. A large dome with a transparent front serves as the camp’s dining area. The desert landscape with rocky mountains stretches into the background under a clear blue sky.
A camel in Wadi Rum sits on the sand at sunset, wearing a colorful harness and saddle. Another camel rests nearby, with desert mountains in the background. The warm light casts long shadows across the sand.
A Bedouin man tends to two camels outside Sun City Camp in Wadi Rum. One camel stands in the foreground with a harness and saddle, while the second camel looks on from behind. The desert landscape with rock formations stretches into the distance.

Wadi Rum Accommodation

After dinner, we headed off to the camp that we’d booked for the night – Rum Under the Star Camp. All I can say is wow! The friendly reception we received from the owners and the local Bedouin community was incredible.

We sat around the fire for hours laughing and chatting, not wanting the evening to end. We felt so welcome and at home. My only regret is not spending longer at this camp. For my next trip to Jordan, I’ll definitely be staying for at least 2 nights, if not more.

Four Bedouin men sit around a fire inside a tent at Rum Under the Stars Camp in Wadi Rum. The tent is decorated with red and black woven fabric, traditional rugs, and a central fireplace with a chimney. Logs, a kettle, and embers are visible in the fire pit as the men talk and drink tea.

If you have 10-14 days in Jordan, I’d highly recommend you stay at Rum Under the Stars Camp for at least 2 nights. However, if you only have 7 days in Jordan and want to experience more of the country, one night at the camp would suffice to give you a taster.

The Rum Under the Stars Camp offers a variety of tours and experiences that you can pay extra for. You can choose from the following tours, which include a tour of the desert to famous places such as Lawrence Canyon and some lesser-known places:

  • 2-hour tour – 20 JOD
  • 4-hour tour – 35 JOD
  • 6-hour tour with lunch – 45 JOD
Zara and her mum, Sue, stand between two Bedouin men inside a traditional desert tent in Wadi Rum. Both women are dressed in black abayas and headscarves, while the men wear traditional Jordanian clothing. The interior features woven rugs, cushions, and a stone wall in the background.
Two Bedouin men sit around a fire in a traditional desert camp, enjoying tea. One man, dressed in a grey robe with a headscarf, smiles while holding a metal cup, while the other, in a beige quilted jacket and red-and-white keffiyeh, grins as they chat. Behind them, a black stove with a chimney sits on a stone hearth, and the tent is lined with red and black woven fabric.
Zara stands barefoot on a rocky outcrop in Wadi Rum, gazing over the vast desert landscape with towering rock formations in the background. The sky is clear and blue, and the sand stretches far into the distance.

They also offer sunrise and sunset tours, a stargazing night tour, camel rides, hiking tours, a hot air balloon ride, and a full-day tour which includes a 2-hour hike to the summit of Jordan’s highest peak, Jabal Umm ad-Dumi.

If you want something a little more on the luxurious side, I would recommend Sun City Camp. I personally loved the simplicity and authenticity of Rum Under the Stars Camp, but if you’d like to stay in one of the Martian bubble pods, Sun City Camp would be a great option.

A desert landscape with towering rock formations in the background. A white pickup truck is parked on the reddish sand, with tire tracks visible around it. Small shrubs are scattered across the sand dunes.

Day 5 – Dana Biosphere Reserve, Hiking and Community Lunch

I’m willing to bet that you’d never heard of the Dana Biosphere Reserve until you started researching your trip to Jordan. I certainly hadn’t. But since visiting Dana, I have no idea why this beautiful place isn’t more widely known.

Not only is the area rich with diverse wildlife, but you’ll also find a huge variety of hiking trails through staggeringly beautiful scenery, mountains, canyons and rustic villages.

A man wearing a green patterned headscarf and a beige vest sits on the ground near a small fire. He stirs the fire with a stick, with a black kettle resting on a makeshift stone stove. A blue backpack and a water bottle are placed beside him.
Zara sits on a large rock overlooking a rugged valley with mountain ridges in Dana Biosphere Reserve in Jordan. She wears a blue headscarf, a white long-sleeve shirt, and khaki pants. The landscape features dry, rocky terrain with scattered vegetation.

Starting from the Dana Visitor Centre, we embarked on a short hike on the Wadi Dana trail. Our guide Kaled spent time explaining the history of the region and showing us a variety of plants and trees, including pomegranate, olive, date and almond trees. He even showed us how the locals use the flesh of wild onions as a natural superglue.

We stopped halfway for a freshly brewed Bedouin tea cooked over a small fire while enjoying the incredible views through the valley and canyon. Once we’d finished our tea, we headed back to the village, where Kaled’s wife cooked us an incredible lunch in their home.

You can book this hiking and lunch experience with Kaled through the Dana Visitor Centre for only 10 JOD. It was 100% worth it and one of my favourite parts of the trip.

Zara stands at a metal railing overlooking a vast canyon with layered rock formations. She wears a blue patterned shawl, a white long-sleeve shirt, and khaki pants. The sky is partly cloudy with soft, wispy clouds. This is one of the best hidden gems to add to your 7-day Jordan itinerary.
A man wearing a green headscarf and a blue backpack walks along a rocky path. He is dressed in a blue long-sleeve shirt, a beige vest, and camouflage pants. In the background, there are stone buildings and a dry, mountainous landscape in Dana Biosphere Reserve in Jordan.

Dana Biosphere Reserve Accommodation

After leaving Kaled’s house, we departed Dana for our accommodation that night – Feynan Eco Lodge. Feynan Eco Lodge is a 26-room lodge that centres around eco-friendly and sustainable principles. The lodge is run by the local community, with all proceeds going back into the community to support local people.

The lodge is powered by solar energy, and to be as environmentally friendly as possible, it is lit by candles at night with no electricity, except in very limited areas. The candlelight made for an enchanting atmosphere surrounded by rugged mountains and rustic scenery.

To get to the Eco Lodge, you must park at the Reception Centre in the nearby village of Feynan and take a pickup truck off-road to the lodge. This in itself was a fun experience.

The entrance of Feynan Ecolodge features a beige mud-brick facade with wooden beams protruding from the walls. A set of wooden double doors stands open, flanked by two torch stands. The ground outside is a mix of dirt and scattered rocks.
Inside Feynan Ecolodge, a worn wooden piano with missing keys sits against a beige wall. A framed architectural drawing hangs above it, along with smaller framed pictures. A patterned rug lies on the floor in front of the piano.

While the lodge may seem pricey at first glance (starting from 152 JOD per night), the cost includes all of your meals and drinks, a variety of activities and excursions such as a sunrise hike, a sunset hike, stargazing and other experiences with the local community, so once you factor this in, the price is very reasonable.

The lodge only serves vegetarian food due to sustainability principles. The food was really tasty, and there was enough variety for it to be interesting without there being excess waste.

If you’d prefer to stay closer to the Wadi Dana Trail, I recommend Dana Luxury Huts. Located close to the Visitor Centre, the huts have the most incredible view.

The lounge area at Feynan Ecolodge features wooden-framed sofas with beige and red-striped cushions. Red curtains with white embroidery cover the windows, complementing the warm-toned walls. A large metal chandelier hangs from the ceiling, and framed artwork decorates the space.
The rooftop terrace at Feynan Ecolodge has beige tile flooring and a low metal railing. White cushions are arranged on the ground for seating, facing a rocky desert landscape. A chimney structure stands on one side, with mountains in the background.

Day 6 – Dead Sea, Floating in the Dead Sea and Mud Experience

After a crazy but incredible few days, you’ll need some downtime! I know I certainly did. A day at the Dead Sea, relaxing on the beach, floating in the salty sea and enjoying some much-needed spa treatments was exactly what we needed.

Before checking into our hotel, we paid a visit to the alleged Baptism Site of Jesus Christ at Bethany Beyond the Jordan, which is only a 20-minute drive from the majority of the Dead Sea resort hotels.

The entrance fee to the Baptism Site is 12 JOD. You’ll hop on a minibus which will take you a short distance into the military zone on the border of the West Bank – don’t worry, it’s perfectly safe.

Once you’re dropped off, you’ll need to walk around 5-10 minutes to get to the alleged baptism site. You’ll also get to see the Jordan River, which was quite special due to the history of the area.

A wooden entrance structure leads to the Jordan River at the Jesus Baptism Site. A stone sign with Arabic and English text marks the location. Several visitors walk along the wooden walkway, surrounded by greenery.
A stone church with a bell tower stands at the Jesus Baptism Site. The arched entrance has decorative gold star patterns on the ceiling, and a man in a light blue shirt walks down the steps. The building is made of beige-colored stone with a cross on the roof.

After the Baptism Site, we headed to the Crowne Plaza Hotel for an incredible lunch which included all the usual Jordanian culinary delights, a mixed grill and the most delicious dessert – Mahalabia. The restaurant at the Crowne Plaza overlooks the Dead Sea, so we had a fantastic view for our lunch.

After checking into our hotel, we headed down to the beach to relax and soak in the Dead Sea. It’s recommended that you only spend 15 minutes in the Dead Sea, as it can be so dehydrating due to the high salt content.

We enjoyed some time relaxing before coating ourselves in the thick mud and washing it off in the sea. There are showers on the beach that you can use to rinse yourself off to get the salt off you.

We then sat and watched the sunset over the Palestinian mountains on the other side of the Dead Sea. A truly amazing experience and a beautiful evening.

Zara floats on her back in the Dead Sea near the private beach of the Dead Sea Spa Hotel. The calm, blue water reflects the clear sky, with a rocky shoreline in the background. A second person is also floating nearby.
Zara's mum Sue leans back in the water, her arms spread wide and legs raised slightly. The shoreline is visible with sandy and rocky terrain leading to hotel buildings in the background. The water is still, with gentle ripples around her.

Dead Sea Accommodation

We stayed at the Dead Sea Spa Resort, which we loved. The hotel is huge and encompasses a range of restaurants and a coffee bar (which was closed when we visited, unfortunately). The hotel has a private beach, a swimming pool and a beach bar. We ate dinner in the restaurant that night and really enjoyed the food.

Our room was huge and had a fantastic view over the Dead Sea. The hotel also has a spa with a sauna, steam room and the option to book spa treatments.

The sun sets over the Dead Sea, casting a golden glow across the water. A reflection of the sun stretches in a straight line on the calm surface. Distant mountains form a dark silhouette against the sky.

Day 7 – Amman/Jerash

After enjoying some relaxation time, you’ll be all ready for your next adventure, a day in Amman and Jerash. On day 7, you’ll start your day with a visit to the incredible and expansive Roman ruins in Jerash – the largest and best-preserved Roman ruins outside Italy!

You’ll need at least 2 hours to properly explore the Roman ruins, so start early from the Dead Sea, as it’s about a 1.5-hour drive.

Before heading to the Roman Ruins, we stopped off for an amazing lunch at the renowned Lebanese restaurant, Um Khalil in Jerash. The food was incredible, and the restaurant was beautiful. I highly recommend stopping here during your time in Jerash for a hearty lunch!

Zara sits on stone steps at the Temple of Artemis in Jerash. Behind her, tall Corinthian columns stand against a clear blue sky. The ruins include scattered stone blocks and partially preserved walls.
The Roman amphitheater in Jerash features curved stone seating surrounding a central stage. The structure has arched entrances and remnants of decorative carvings. In the background, modern buildings are visible beyond the ruins.

The entrance fee to the Roman Ruins is 12 JOD and is absolutely worth the money. The site is huge and really gives you a feel for what a bustling Roman town would have been like. The way the site has been preserved is incredible.

Our guide, Abdullah, was very knowledgeable about the ruins as Jerash is his hometown. I highly recommend hiring a local guide, as you gain so much from the information they impart. Abdullah pointed out things we would have missed and gave us interesting facts that enhanced the experience.

The ruins of ancient Jerash feature a colonnaded temple on a raised platform. Stone arches, scattered columns, and remnants of buildings stretch across the site. In the background, the modern city of Jerash extends into the hills.

Once you’ve explored the Roman Ruins of Jerash, head back to Amman to explore the Citadel and Roman Amphitheatre. While not as large as the ruins in Jerash, the views from the Citadel over the city are spectacular. The entrance fee for the Citadel is only 3 JOD and includes a small archaeological museum.

For your last night in Jordan, I highly recommend checking out Downtown Amman, including Rainbow Street. The city is buzzing at night.

Zara stands on a rocky ledge overlooking the city of Amman. The densely packed buildings stretch across the hills, with the Roman Amphitheater visible below. She wears a floral shirt and a burgundy scarf.
Two towering columns with a horizontal stone slab form part of the ruins at the Amman Citadel. A few broken columns and scattered stones lie on the ground. Zara stands in the distance, wearing a headscarf and sunglasses.

Make sure you pay a visit to the famous Habibah Sweets Shop and the sweet shop to the left of Newton Coffee (on the corner). Both come highly recommended by Abdullah and other locals.

If you have time, I also recommend a visit to The Jordanian Kitchen, where you’ll learn to cook (and eat!) typical Jordanian recipes.

We had a fabulous time at The Jordanian Kitchen and learnt so much about Jordanian food and culture. I can’t wait to try the recipes for my friends and family at home.

A busy street in downtown Amman is lined with shops, cafes, and market stalls. Yellow taxis, cars, and pedestrians fill the road, with a mosque's minaret visible in the background. Store signs in Arabic and English advertise various businesses.

Amman Accommodation

Having stayed at the Corp Amman Hotel for the first night, it makes sense to finish where you started. After all, the Corp Amman is a beautiful hotel in a quiet part of town, with a gorgeous rooftop terrace and amazing food! If you’d prefer to stay closer to downtown Amman amidst the hustle and bustle, I recommend Hotel Philosophy or Nu Fifty Two.

More Things To Do in Jordan

If you have extra days to fill, or simply don’t fancy some of the items on this list, here are a few extra places to add to your 7-day Jordan itinerary.

  • Mount Nebo – If you’re Christian or just interested in history, Mount Nebo is a great location to visit. Mount Nebo is known in the Bible as the place where Moses was buried on the Israelites’ route to the Promised Land. The exact location of Moses’ tomb is unknown, but there are some great hiking trails in the area and epic views across the region.
  • Madaba – Known as the Mosaic City, Madaba is absolutely gorgeous. Known for its slower pace, it can be a good alternative to Amman if big, chaotic cities aren’t your thing.
Zara stands near the rock-carved amphitheater in Petra, wearing a blue headscarf and khaki pants. The theater is carved into the sandstone cliffs, with rows of seating and carved openings in the background. A few standing columns remain near the stage area.
  • Shaumari Wildlife Reserve – A 22 sq km wildlife reserve that was created to reintroduce wildlife such as the Arabian Oryx. You can also see ostriches in the reserve. I’ve been on safari in Africa three times and seen Oryx before, so I was comfortable with missing this off the Jordan itinerary, but if you’re keen to see Oryx in the wild, this would be a great addition to your plan.
  • Wadi Mujib – The Mujib Biosphere Reserve is the lowest nature reserve on earth. Starting from the Mujib Adventure Centre, there are a variety of trails through incredible canyons such as the Siq Trail, Canyon Trail, Malaqi Trail and others. Some trails are only open at certain times of the year due to water level, so it’s worth checking with the Adventure Centre before you make a trip there.
  • Ma-in Hot Springs – Very close to Wadi Mujib, you’ll find the Ma-in Hot Springs, which consists of thermal mineral hot springs and waterfalls. It is said that Herod the Great bathed in the medicinal waters here. You can stay in the Ma’in Hot Springs Resort & Spa or simply visit for the day, as it’s not far from Madaba.
A view of the Dead Sea in Jordan shows a shoreline with salt formations and turquoise water. A stretch of cultivated land with rows of palm trees lines the opposite shore. Rocky hills and desert terrain extend into the background.

Transportation – How to Get Around Jordan

The easiest way to get around Jordan is to hire a car and enjoy a self-guided road trip. Outside the main cities, driving in Jordan is easy. The roads tend to be long and straight with incredible views to keep you company.

Although we had a driver and a guide on this occasion, the next time I visit Jordan, I’d be happy to hire a car and plan a self-drive road trip.

The roads feel safe, although it can be a bit hectic driving in Amman. The good news is that, while there are some long journeys in this itinerary, the time flies by as you spend the journey marvelling at the incredible landscapes!

I recommend checking Discover Cars for competitive car rental. Discover Cars is a comparison engine that allows you to compare prices across various car rental companies. I have used them many times myself and always find that they offer the best price.

A view from inside a car shows a road trip through Jordan, with rugged mountains lining the highway. The driver and a passenger are partially visible in the foreground. A few cars can be seen in the distance on the open road.

If you don’t want to drive, another alternative would be to book a guided group tour, although this gives you a lot less flexibility for your itinerary. Here are some tours I recommend:

From Amman: Petra, Wadi Rum and Dead Spa 2-Day Tour – depart from Amman on a guided tour of Jordan’s most famous sites! The tour includes a night in a Bedouin camp in Wadi Rum. Also includes a jeep tour, dinner and breakfast.

Half-Day Tour to Jerash from Amman – If you don’t have a hire car and want to explore Jerash, this is a great alternative. The private tour leaves from Amman and provides private transportation and an English-speaking guide.

From Amman: Madaba, Nebo, Petra, Wadi Rum, & Dead Sea 4-Day Tour – Includes transfers to and from your hotel, 1 night in a Bedouin-style camp with dinner and a Zarb, accommodation in Petra, Amman and Wadi Rum.

A Bedouin guide rides a camel while leading a group of saddled camels through the desert in Wadi Rum. The sandy terrain stretches toward distant rock formations and mountains. The camels are adorned with colorful blankets and harnesses.

Eating and Drinking in Jordan

Jordanian food is incredible! I absolutely loved the freshly prepared salads, hummus, baba ghanoush, grilled meats and Jordanian dishes such as Maqluba and Mansaf.

On this trip, I travelled with my mum, who is vegetarian. She had absolutely no problem with finding vegetarian options. Many of the meals in Jordan start with colourful fresh salads, such as Fatoush salad, flatbreads, humus, mutabal and baba ghanoush.

Zara sits at a table in Um Khalil Restaurant, a renowned Lebanese eatery in Jerash. The table is adorned with various traditional dishes, including hummus, tabbouleh, and grilled meats. Behind her, the restaurant's elegant interior features stone walls and arched doorways.​

We also enjoyed lentil soup and many vegetarian side dishes. We were blown away by the huge variety of fresh fruit juices and smoothies, and the selection of Arabic sweets and desserts – my favourites being Umm Ali and Mahalabia.

Alcohol isn’t available in shops, restaurants or bars. Some of the more touristy hotels and resorts sell alcohol, but all of the budget hotels we stayed in did not sell alcohol. Instead, you can try a range of fresh juices and smoothies. I loved the lemon mint juice sold in most places.

Zara's mum Sue wears a blue patterned blouse and prepares to eat a fresh fattoush salad at a restaurant overlooking the Dead Sea. The table has a spread of olives, pickles, and warm pita bread. Large windows in the background provide a view of the coastline.
A Jordanian cooking class setup displays traditional dishes on a countertop. Bowls of hummus, tabbouleh, and other local specialties are arranged in colorful ceramic and clay dishes. The kitchen features wooden shelves stocked with plates and cooking utensils.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to visit Jordan?

The best time of year to visit Jordan is undoubtedly in the Spring or Autumn. Summers get incredibly hot, so many people avoid the summer months of June to August.

I visited in mid-March. We had sunshine and blue skies every day. The temperature in March varied from 22-30°C. Locals also told us that September and October are very nice months to visit Jordan.

Zara's mum Sue walks barefoot up a steep sand dune in Wadi Rum. The reddish sand is marked by footprints, leading toward a rock formation at the top. The sky is clear and blue, with no clouds visible.
A beautiful sunny swimming pool framed by parasols and bright pink bougainvillea flowers overlooks the serene Red Sea in Aqaba Jordan.

Is Jordan safe for solo female travellers?

After spending 8 days in Jordan, I can confidently say I would happily travel solo in Jordan. Many people are worried about travelling to Jordan due to the various issues being experienced in the surrounding countries, such as Syria, Israel and Iraq, but Jordan feels a million miles away from these problems.

I was comfortable walking around late at night. There were women and children out on the street late at night, and there was a very family-friendly atmosphere everywhere I went.

Jordanian people are extremely welcoming, hospitable and friendly. We were blown away by their friendliness, with so many people stopping to talk to us and warmly welcoming us to their country.

Of course, as with any kind of travel, you should always follow sensible safety precautions, but on the whole, I felt very safe and would recommend Jordan as one of the best places for a solo trip!

An incredible sunset over Amman in Jordan. The cityscape is silhouetted against the golden sunset with a mosque minaret standing out against the skyline.

Is Jordan safe for families with children?

I saw many families travelling with young children during my 7 days in Jordan. There were women and very young children out on the street late at night. There is a very family-friendly atmosphere everywhere you go, with a big focus on family in Jordanian culture.

As I said above, you should also practice sensible safety precautions, but on the whole, I would consider Jordan to be a family-friendly destination.

A huge range of burial tombs in Petra, Jordan. The red sandstone rock is lit up by sunlight providing an impressive archaelogical backdrop.

Is it safe to travel to Jordan at the moment, given the problems in surrounding countries?

While Jordan is surrounded by many nations that are experiencing current or past problems, such as the conflict in Gaza, Jordan feels a million miles away from other problems in the Middle East.

Jordan is a very peaceful country with no wars or problems for several decades. Its people are welcoming and hospitable. Unfortunately, many tourists have mistakenly assumed that Jordan is unsafe due to the problems in surrounding countries, but it’s simply not the case. Now is as good a time as any to visit Jordan, so book that trip!

Two bedouin men sit around a fireplace inside a bedouin tent in Wadi Rum. The tent is located at the Rum Under the Stars Camp. One of the men is laughing while drinking a cup of tea.
A Bedouin male sits on the sandy ground in front of a colourful rug. He is pointing at an array of delicious food laid out on the rug. He is wearing a grey fleece and sand coloured hiking trousers.

How much spending money will I need?

We found we needed much more cash than we originally thought. Many places in Jordan, especially places outside major cities, do not accept cards, so take more cash than you think you’ll need. Also bear in mind that many people expect a tip for their service, including hotel doormen, drivers, and guides.

We started with 250 JOD each, but needed to draw more money out of the ATM. Of course, it depends on what you plan to do during your time in Jordan. But we found a total of 400-500 JOD to be about right for one week in Jordan.

However, we did pack a lot into our 7 days in Jordan, so if you plan to schedule fewer activities, 250-300 JOD should be enough.

Three colourful wooden boats are moored on the sandy beach in Aqaba, Jordan. It's a bright clear sunny day and there is a large red and black tanker ship in the distance.

How expensive is it to travel around Jordan?

Accommodation in Jordan is very reasonably priced. I booked mid-range 3-star hotels for £30-40 per night, splurging on a couple of 4-star hotels at £70-80 per night. Most of these included breakfast at the hotel, and some even included dinner!

Food and drink costs are around the same as in the UK. You can buy a main meal for 10-20 JOD, depending on what you order. Portion sizes are usually quite big.

Alcohol is mostly not available unless you stay in very touristy resorts. In the Dead Sea Spa Resort, a small glass of wine was 5 JOD, which is around the same price as in the UK. Alcohol was not available in the other hotels we stayed at, which wasn’t an issue for us.

Tours and experiences were very reasonably priced, ranging from 10-40 JOD depending on the length of the tour and type of experience, but you should also factor in the price of a tip for the tour guide or instructor.

A white pick-up truck speeds through the desert at sunset. The truck is kicking up sand as it moves which is highlighted against a beautiful sunset creating a sense of movement in the image.

How many days do you need in Jordan?

I would strongly recommend spending at least 7 days in Jordan. There is so much to see and do that any less time would mean you miss out on huge areas.

If you’re mainly interested in visiting Petra and Wadi Rum, you could plan 3 or 4 days in Jordan, but 7-10 days would be the optimum amount of time to really experience the authentic side of Jordan and see more than just the usual tourist spots.

For my next visit (yes, I am already planning it!!), I hope to spend two weeks in Jordan with more nights in Aqaba, Wadi Rum, Dana Biosphere Reserve and Petra. I also hope to add Mount Nebo, Wadi Mujib and Madaba to my Jordan itinerary.

Towering pillars of sandstone in the Wadi Rum desert are framed against a clear blue sky. In the foreground, you can see small shrubs and bushes.
A large steam train sits on a deserted railway track in the middle of the Wadi Rum desert. It's a bright sunny day and the desert stretches out into the distance.

Should I buy the Jordan Pass?

The Jordan Pass provides entry to over 40 of Jordan’s main tourist attractions, including Petra, Jerash, Wadi Rum, and much more. My mum purchased the Jordan Pass for 70 JOD for this trip, and it definitely saved money as it also covers your visa fee.

Entrance to Petra for one day is 50 JOD, and the visa is 40 JOD so you automatically save 20 JOD just by having the Jordan Pass. She was also able to enter Amman Citadel for free, Wadi Rum (usually a 5 JOD entrance fee) and a couple of other sites for free.

Large ancient pillars frame a sandy walkway in Jerash. The pillars can be found at the Roman Ruins in the city of Jerash. This is one of the best things to add to your 7 day Jordan itinerary.

What should I pack and wear as a woman in Jordan?

Jordan is a conservative Muslim country, and women should dress modestly in Jordan, covering up as much skin as possible to show respect for the Jordanian culture.

I wore loose linen trousers and chinos most days, as well as loose-fitting tops. I wore a scarf most days so I could cover up my chest, and this also served very well as a head covering on hot days where I wanted to keep the sun off my head.

Women should take care to cover their shoulders and chest, and take care not to show cleavage. You can wear bikinis on the beach and around the pool.

Lightweight loose-fitting clothing is great in hot weather as it keeps you cool and prevents sunburn.

Zara's guide, Abdullah, stands at the top of an opening which overlooks an ancient Roman amphitheatre. He is looking down through the doorway while the sunstreams through.
Zara's mum Sue stands in the doorway of an ancient mosque in the Roman Ruins of Jerash. The sunshine streams through the door lighting her up with a golden glow.

My Travel Essentials for Safe and Affordable Travel

After spending the last 10 years travelling the world, I have picked up a few trusted tools and tips along the way to ensure my solo trips are safe and affordable. Here are the tools that I recommend for safe, budget-friendly solo female travel.

Travel Insurance – I recommend Safety Wing Travel Insurance. More info on that below.

Car Rental – I use Discover Cars to compare prices across multiple car rental companies in one go. I’ve always found they offer the best prices and deals.

eSIM – It’s important to be connected when travelling solo to ensure you can access help if needed and stay in touch with family and friends. I recommend Sim Local as they offer eSIMs for over 200 countries at very competitive rates. I always use Sim Local and have found their coverage and customer service to be excellent. You can purchase your eSIM on Sim Local’s website. Use the code PASSPORTLIVING for 5% off your purchase.

VPN – I have recently purchased a VPN for my devices to keep my data secure when using public WiFi in hotels, cafes, and other public spaces. I recommend Nord VPN as they have great offers for the first two years when you subscribe.

You can read about other tools I swear by on my Travel Essentials page.

Promotional Pinterest image showing a collage of 4 images of Jordan. The images include photos of the Wadi Rum desert, the ancient city of Petra and the Roman Ruins at Jerash.
Promotional Pinterest image showing a collage of 4 images of Jordan. The images include photos of the Wadi Rum desert, the ancient city of Petra and the Roman Ruins at Jerash.
Promotional Pinterest image showing a collage of 4 images of Jordan. The images include photos of the Wadi Rum desert, the ancient city of Petra and the Roman Ruins at Jerash.

If you have any questions about travelling to Jordan or this 7-day Jordan itinerary, please get in touch via the contact form, and I’ll do my best to help.

Zara Aitken is a UK-based travel blogger and the founder of Passport for Living. While sharing her travel stories, hiking guides and travel inspiration online since 2015, she has travelled to over 25 countries and is still counting. She's on a mission to help others travel solo on a budget, promoting adventure travel and authentic cultural experiences along the way.