Highlights of Jordan
As a travel destination, the Arab Kingdom of Jordan punches well above its weight. Travellers here can revel in the unique culture of the country's capital,
Amman, discover the astonishing man-made marvels of Petra and visit ancient Biblical sites, such as Mount Nebo. Follow in Lawrence of Arabia's footsteps to experience spectacular desert scenery, float in the therapeutic waters of the world-famous Dead Sea or even explore coral reefs on a Red Sea diving trip. What's more, the country's diminutive size means you can explore its highlights in one exciting and all-encompassing Jordan holiday.
Ideal for a cultural break, an active adventure holiday, a relaxing holiday beside the sea or a combination of all three, the best places to stay in Jordan include Amman,
Petra, the Dead Sea and Aqaba.
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Ancient wonders
Hidden amid the mountain passes of south-western Jordan for thousands of years, the awe-inspiring city of Petra is as close as you can get to a real Indiana Jones-style experience. In fact, this rock-hewn ‘rose-red city' is so astonishing that the Treasury's facade was featured in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. A Unesco World Heritage Site and named one of the new Seven Wonders of the World, it easily rivals Egypt's antiquities for mystery and magic and is a must-see sight on any trip to the Middle East. Though many visitors only spend a day here, Petra's antiquities are spread out over a vast area and the area rewards exploration. To reach the impressive Al Dier Monastery, for example, requires an hour's climb up a steep mountain-side. Don't miss the evening candle-lit vigil outside the city's treasury – this majestic place is even more magical by candlelight.
Desert discovery
Follow in the footsteps of Lawrence of Arabia into the dramatic lunar-like landscapes of the Valley of the Moon. Learn about the local Bedouin's way of life, go on a camel safari and camp out under the stars in Wadi Rum. Made famous more than fifty years ago by David Lean's epic film, these rust-red landscapes feel as if they have changed little since the dawn of time. Set in southern Jordan, Wadi Rum's desert valley tracts are full of strange and wonderful sandstone and granite rock formations, such as the so-called Seven Pillars of Wisdom. As a Unesco World Heritage Site, Wadi Rum is a protected area with its own visitor centre. Excursions to the valley can be easily arranged from most tourist hubs in the country.
Biblical and classical sites
Visit the well-preserved ancient Greco-Roman city of Jerash, situated in northern Jordan, founded by Alexander the Great and considered one of the most important classical cities in the Middle East. Extensive excavations have uncovered a vast oval forum surrounded by an almost-intact colonnade, massive temples dedicated to the Roman gods and a long colonnaded street, as well as countless other buildings. Jordan also has more than its fair share of iconic biblical sites: enjoy a stop-off at Mount Nebo where the Prophet Moses viewed the Promised Land, explore crusader castles, and view the extraordinary byzantine mosaics in the central Jordanian city of Madaba, including a huge Byzantine map of the Holy Land dating back to the 6th century.
Cultural capital
Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Jordan's lively capital,
Amman, with a bevy of bustling souks and ancient ruins waiting to be discovered. History buffs should head straight for the grand Roman Theatre, built into a hillside with steep tiers that once seated up to 6,000 spectators. The Amman Citadel, a set of ruins on Citadel Hill, is also well worth a look. The jumbled ruins, including the Temple of Hercules, take visitors on a passage through time at one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited sites. To experience the culture of modern day Amman, a stroll along Rainbow Street is hard to beat. Here, travellers can experience buzzing city life and watch the world go by in one of the many excellent cafes.
Aquatic adventures
To experience the beauty of the underwater world,
Aqaba, set beside the Red Sea on Jordan's southernmost tip is an ideal destination. Less busy than many other Red Sea resorts, Aqaba is blessed with long golden beaches and crystal-clear waters, with many high-end hotels set right on the seafront. The Red Sea's subtropical gardens are filled with colourful corals and an array of marine animals including sea turtles and rays. Visitors will not have to look far to find a good dive centre. Alternatively, many of the area's shallow reefs can be discovered with a simple snorkel, mask and fins.
Rest and relaxation
The world-famous Dead Sea is the lowest point on earth and its shores are dotted with luxurious spa resorts capitalising on the Sea's therapeutic reputation. In fact, some might say that this is the world's oldest spa destination, with visitors coming here to luxuriate in its buoyant mineral-rich waters and slather themselves with its curative mud since ancient times.
Equally, travellers can find a peaceful golden stretch of sand to soak up the sun and swim in clear, azure waters at Jordan's only Red Sea resort of Aqaba. This low-key and relaxed holiday hotspot has all the facilities of a typical beach resort and is the ideal place to relax at the end of your journey through Jordan.
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