Jordan is in Middle East. Its capital is Amman. It ranks #69 among the world's most-visited countries. It draws about ~5.3 million visitors a year. Below: top cities, experiences, seasons, food and entry rules.
Every figure links to its source.
Jordan holds the rose-red city of Petra. Desert, sea and history meet here. The Dead Sea is its lowest point. Amman is a modern Arab capital.
Jordan sits in Middle East, with Amman as its capital. It suits first-time visitors and repeat travellers alike. You can mix famous sights with quieter corners. This guide covers cities, experiences, seasons, food and visas.
A quick framework before the details.
Start by choosing your season and trip length. Most first trips run about one to two weeks. Base yourself in Amman first, then branch out. Add Petra (Wadi Musa) and for variety and contrast. Book flights and any visa well ahead. Leave slow days to simply wander and rest.
The best places to base a trip.
Beyond the cities — the sights worth planning around.
These sights anchor most Jordan itineraries. Pick a few and build your route around them.
Where the country's variety lies.
| Region | Known for |
|---|---|
| Amman | The hilly capital. |
| Petra & the South | The ancient rock city. |
| Wadi Rum | A red-sand desert. |
| The Dead Sea | The world's lowest shore. |
Each region has its own scenery, food and pace. Mixing two or three gives the fullest picture.
Easy routes built from the cities above.
Adjust nights to your pace and interests. Fewer stops usually means a richer trip.
Visit March to May or September to November. Summers are very hot in the desert.
| Season | Typically | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 🌸 Spring | Mild, fewer crowds | Often a sweet spot |
| ☀️ Summer | Peak & warmest | Busy and pricier |
| 🍂 Autumn | Cooler, colourful | Great value shoulder |
| ❄️ Winter | Coldest / off-peak | Quiet; some sights close |
Tourism data: UN Tourism.
Trains, transit and the open road.
Cities usually have metros, buses or trams. Trains link many regions comfortably and scenically. Domestic flights save time over long distances. Car hire opens up the countryside and small towns.
Dishes worth seeking out.
Food is a highlight of any Jordan trip. Try local markets, cafes and family-run spots.
| Dish | What it is |
|---|---|
| Mansaf | Lamb with yoghurt and rice. |
| Falafel | Fried chickpea fritters. |
| Maqluba | An upside-down rice dish. |
| Hummus | A chickpea-and-tahini dip. |
| Knafeh | A sweet cheese pastry. |
Time a trip around these.
| Festival | When | About |
|---|---|---|
| Jerash Festival | Jul–Aug | Arts among Roman ruins. |
| Distant Heat | Summer | A desert music event. |
| Independence Day | May | National celebrations. |
Festivals book out hotels early. Plan and reserve well in advance.
Small courtesies that go a long way.
A friendly greeting is always appreciated. Dress modestly at temples, churches and shrines. Learn a few words of Arabic before you go. Tipping norms vary, so check locally.
Most visitors arrive by air. Confirm visa rules before booking.
🛂 For Indian passport holders: Indians can get a visa on arrival or e-visa; the Jordan Pass helps. See the official source: Jordan Pass.
Also check the IATA Travel Centre.
Base yourself in Amman or Petra (Wadi Musa). Each has stays from hostels to five-star hotels. A mid-range hotel runs about $45–75 a night. Book early in peak season and near the main sights.
Search hotels in Amman, Petra (Wadi Musa). Browse all stays on Booking.com or Airbnb.
Approximate daily costs per person, excluding flights.
| Style | Approx. per day | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| 🎒 Budget | $40–55 | Hostels, street food, public transport |
| 🧳 Mid-range | $80–130 | Comfortable hotels, cafes, some taxis |
| 🛎️ Luxury | $130–220 / night+ | Five-star hotels, fine dining, private guides |
A comfortable mid-range hotel runs about $45–75 a night. Meals add around $25–40 a day. Cities cost more than towns and villages. Travelling off-peak stretches your budget further.
Souvenirs and local specialities.
Little things that smooth a trip.
| Topic | What to know |
|---|---|
| 💵 Money | The currency is Jordanian dinar (JOD). |
| 📱 Connectivity | Buy a local or eSIM on arrival. |
| 🔌 Power | Carry a universal travel adapter. |
| 🩺 Health | Check vaccines and travel insurance. |
| 🗣️ Language | The main language is Arabic. |
Leave places better than you find them.
A little Arabic goes a long way.
The main language is Arabic. English is common in tourist areas and hotels. Learn hello, please and thank you first. A translation app helps with menus and signs.
Cards, cash and everyday spending.
The currency is Jordanian dinar (JOD). Cards work widely in cities and hotels. Carry some cash for markets and small vendors. ATMs are easy to find in towns. Tell your bank before you travel abroad.
A mid-range hotel costs about $45–75 a night. Five-star stays run roughly $130–220. Food adds around $25–40 a day. Budget days cost about $40–55; mid-range about $80–130.
What to bring for Jordan's climate and culture.
Pack light sun cover for hot days. Bring a warm layer for nights. Dress modestly and cover shoulders and knees. Carry a scarf for holy sites. Add comfortable walking shoes and a travel adapter. Bring personal medicines. Carry copies of your passport and visa.
Odds and ends worth knowing.
A little extra background.
Jordan is safe, warm and welcoming. Petra is its world-famous highlight. Wadi Rum offers desert camps. The Dead Sea lets you float easily. The dinar is a strong currency. The Jordan Pass bundles visa and sites. Spring and autumn are ideal. Distances between sights are short. Arabic is the language; English is common. Hospitality to guests runs deep.
Jordan is in Middle East. Its capital is Amman.
Visit March to May or September to November. Summers are very hot in the desert.
A mid-range hotel costs about $45–75 a night. Five-star stays run roughly $130–220. Meals add around $25–40 a day. Backpackers manage on about $40–55 daily. A mid-range trip costs about $80–130 a day. That excludes international flights.
Plan about 6-9 days for Jordan. That covers the highlights without rushing. Add more days for a slower pace.
Pack light sun cover for hot days. Bring a warm layer for nights. Dress modestly and cover shoulders and knees. Carry a scarf for holy sites. Add comfortable walking shoes and a travel adapter. Bring personal medicines. Carry copies of your passport and visa.
The top cities are Amman, Petra (Wadi Musa). Base yourself in Amman first. Then branch out to the others.
Indians can get a visa on arrival or e-visa; the Jordan Pass helps.
Buses and domestic flights link the main regions. Trains help in some countries. Hire cars suit rural areas. City taxis cover short trips. Ride-hailing apps work in big cities.
Jordan uses the Jordanian dinar (JOD). Carry some cash; cards work in cities and hotels.
The official language is Arabic. English is common in tourist areas and hotels.
About ~5.3 million international visitors.
Try Mansaf, Falafel and Maqluba. Street stalls and family-run spots are the best value.
Yes. Jordan is welcoming and easy for first-time visitors. Especially in tourist areas.
Another top spot in Middle East.
Another top spot in Middle East.
Another top spot in Middle East.
Browse the full list of destinations.
Our deepest country guide.