Are you planning a trip to Jordan and wondering where to go? This article is your guide to the best cities to visit in Jordan. From ancient wonders to stunning natural landscapes, Jordan offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
The Best Cities to Visit in Jordan: Ancient Wonders & Historical Sites
Jordan is a country steeped in history, offering some of the world’s most incredible archaeological sites. It truly is one of the best cities to visit in Jordan for history lovers.
Petra
Known as the “Rose City,” Petra is an ancient city carved into pink sandstone cliffs. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a new wonder of the world. You enter through a narrow canyon called the Siq, which builds suspense before you see the magnificent Treasury (Al-Khazneh). Other highlights include the Monastery, the Roman Theater, and the Royal Tombs.
Jerash
This is one of the best-preserved Roman cities outside of Italy. The Jerash archaeological site features a grand Hadrian’s Arch. It has a distinctive Oval Plaza, and the famous Colonnaded Street (Cardo Maximus). You can also explore the two amphitheaters. The South Theater and the North Theater still host events today. These include the famous Jerash Festival for Culture & Arts. The South Theater, in particular, has remarkable acoustics, allowing a speaker on the stage to be heard throughout the entire auditorium.
Umm Qais
This ancient city, formerly known as Gadara, sits on a hilltop. It offers incredible views of the Sea of Galilee and the Golan Heights. You can explore its Roman ruins, including the West Theatre and the Ottoman Village. This provides a unique blend of cultures.
Madaba
Known as the “City of Mosaics,” Madaba is famous for its Byzantine mosaics. You can see the famous 6th-century map of the Holy Land in the Church of St. George.
Karak
This city is home to the impressive Karak Castle. It’s a large crusader fortress that stands as a testament to the region’s turbulent medieval history. The castle has a prominent role in the history of the Crusades and Mamluk-Ottoman periods.
Nature and Adventure Destinations
For those seeking adventure, Jordan has some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in the Middle East.
Wadi Rum
Often called the “Valley of the Moon,” Wadi Rum is a protected desert wilderness. It has towering sandstone mountains, red sand dunes, and stunning rock formations. Here, you can go on a desert safari by jeep, ride a camel, and spend a night stargazing in a Bedouin camp.
The Dead Sea
The Dead Sea is the lowest point on Earth. Its incredibly high salt content makes floating effortless, offering a unique and relaxing experience. The mineral-rich mud is also famous for its therapeutic properties, and many resorts offer spa treatments.
Ajloun Forest Reserve
This reserve is a green oasis in the north of Jordan. It features a beautiful forest of oak and pistachio trees. Here, you can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and learning about local traditions. The reserve is also home to a captive breeding program for the locally extinct roe deer.
Azraq Wetland Reserve
A beautiful oasis in the Eastern Desert. Azraq Wetland Reserve is an important stop for up to half a million migratory birds each year. You can explore the wetlands and see a variety of wildlife, including the rare Azraq Killifish, the only endemic vertebrate in Jordan.
Modern Cities & Thematic Routes
Amman
The capital city of Jordan, Amman is a modern and vibrant city built on and around rolling hills. It is a great starting point for any trip, offering a mix of modern cafes and ancient sites like the Roman Theater and the Citadel, which provides a stunning view of the city.
Irbid
Known as the “Bride of the North,” Irbid is a bustling city with a large student population. This gives it a lively and youthful atmosphere.
King’s Highway
This is an ancient trade route. It connects the north of Jordan to the south. You can drive along it to see many of the country’s most beautiful landscapes and historical sites, including crusader castles and nature reserves like Dana.
Conclusion
Jordan is a country that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and nature. From the ancient city of Petra to the deserts of Wadi Rum and the bustling streets of Amman, each destination offers a unique experience. We hope this guide helps you plan your journey through this incredible country. For more insights into Arab culture and to master the language, be sure to download the Kaleela Arabic learning app today!
