Jordan was my country #101 on my journey around the world, it is a land of memorable deserts, ancient wonders, and welcoming culture, making it a dream destination for traveler. Whether you’re wanting to visit mysterious the Rose City of Petra, floating in the Dead Sea, or stargazing in the Wadi Rum desert, this 5 days in Jordan itinerary will help you make the most of your visit. From bustling Amman to the serene desert landscapes, each day offers a unique experience in this Middle Eastern gem.
Amman, the capital of Jordan, is a vibrant city where modernity meets ancient history. Known for its bustling markets, contemporary art scene, and historical landmarks, Amman offers a unique blend of old and new. Visitors can explore ancient ruins such as the Amman Citadel, shop for handicrafts in the souks, or relax in one of the city’s many rooftop cafes with panoramic views. The city’s welcoming atmosphere and diverse culinary scene make it an essential starting point for any Jordanian adventure.
Know Before You Go to Jordan
Why you should go: Jordan is home to iconic landmarks, rich history, and warm hospitality. Don’t miss the chance to explore Petra, experience the magic of Wadi Rum, and rejuvenate in the healing waters of the Dead Sea.
Don’t miss: Petra’s Treasury, a jeep safari in Wadi Rum, and the buoyant experience of floating in the Dead Sea.
Best way to get around: Renting a car provides the most flexibility, but I don’t drive so guided tours and taxis are great options and it went just fine.
Best time to go: Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities.
Insider tip: Purchase the Jordan Pass in advance for free access to many attractions and a waived visa fee.
Itinerary highlights: Amman city tour, Dead Sea relaxation, Petra exploration, Wadi Rum adventure, and unforgettable dining experiences.
Currency Exchange: Are in the airport or use ATMs there too.
Download: Google Translator and offline maps on google maps prior
How to go from Airport to town?
The easiest way to get from Queen Alia International Airport to downtown Amman is by using Uber or Careem, which are both widely available in Jordan. Alternatively, you can take the affordable Sariyah Express Bus. The bus ticket station is located just outside of arrivals, and it offers direct routes to key points like the Abdali or 7th Circle in Amman. Once you reach the 7th Circle, you can hail a local taxi to your final destination, whether it’s your hotel or hostel. This combination is both convenient and budget-friendly. Tickets purchased are from their offices at the North Station and Queen Alia International Airport, or directly from the bus driver. The ticket price is JOD (3.30) in cash per person, and there is no prior reservation.
For accommodation, I recommend using booking.com and sorting with price, then consider the ones with highest reviews plus within 1km of center. Below I have researched and named the best ones with this filter (at the time of writing)
For tours, I recommend using get your guide and walking tours available in most places. During Jordan trip, I visited all independently apart from Wadi Rum with Wild Wadi Rum. (details below)
Where to stay in Amman?
Amman offers a variety of accommodations, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. For backpackers or solo travellers, Carob Hostel in the city center is an excellent choice with clean dorms and a social atmosphere. For mid-range options, consider The House Boutique Suites, which features modern amenities and a central location near Rainbow Street. If you’re looking for luxury, The St. Regis Amman delivers a blend of opulence and top-notch service. Staying near the downtown area ensures easy access to major landmarks like the Amman Citadel and the Roman Theater.
How to go from Amman to Dead Sea?
The Jett Bus provides a convenient option to travel between Petra and the Dead Sea. The bus follows a route from Amman to the Dead Sea and back daily, departing Petra in the morning. Tickets can be purchased online or at the Jett offices, and prices are reasonable, making it an ideal choice for budget travelers. Alternatively, you can opt for a private taxi or self-drive for more flexibility, especially if you want to stop at sights like Mount Nebo or the Mujib Biosphere Reserve along the way. The journey typically takes about 3.5 hours by road.
How to go from Amman to Petra?
The most convenient way to travel from Amman to Petra is by taking the Jett Bus, a reliable and comfortable option for tourists. The bus departs daily from Abdali Jett Bus Station in Amman and arrives directly at Petra’s Visitor Center. Tickets can be booked in advance online or purchased at the station, and the journey takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours. Alternatively, you can hire a private taxi or drive yourself if you prefer more flexibility in your schedule.
Where to stay in Petra?
For visiting Petra, staying near the entrance to the archaeological site is ideal. Petra Cabin Hostel offers comfortable clean dorms just a short walk from the main gate, along with a huge lounge area and bus information to get to wadi rum. Budget-conscious travelers can opt for Valentine Inn, a popular hostel that provides shuttles to the Petra entrance and serves hearty Bedouin-style meals. For a luxurious experience, Mövenpick Resort Petra is unbeatable, located directly opposite the site with exceptional facilities, including a spa and multiple dining options.
How to go from Petra to Wadi Rum?
The easiest and most budget-friendly way to travel from Petra to Wadi Rum is via local minibuses. These are often organized through your hostel or hotel in Wadi Musa, departing in the morning (my pickup was 6am for example and paid 20 JD) and taking about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach Wadi Rum. Since schedules may vary, it’s best to confirm departure times the day before.
For more flexibility, you can also arrange a private taxi, which can be shared with other travelers to split the cost. Alternatively, some guided tours include transfers between Petra and Wadi Rum, combining convenience with the opportunity to explore the desert with an expert guide. Once you arrive at the Wadi Rum Visitor Center, your Bedouin camp typically organizes transportation to your accommodation.
Where to stay in Wadi Rum?
Wadi Rum’s magic is best experienced by staying at a Bedouin-style desert camp. After researching for a while, I decided to go with Wild Wadi Rum, they offered a traditional experience with cozy tents, clean blankets, modern toilets, hot showers and authentic delicious Bedouin meals, along with opportunities for stargazing, stunning views of the desert and cultural activities. I highly recommend them purely because I had a great experience of Wadi Rum with them. Salman and their whole family are welcoming and you can read their story on their website. Alternatively, Aicha Luxury Camp provides an upscale glamping experience with domed tents, en-suite bathrooms, and stunning views of the desert.
5 day Jordan itinerary
Day 1: Explore Amman
Morning
Start with breakfast at a local café
Begin your Jordanian adventure with a hearty breakfast at a local spot like Hashem Restaurant. Indulge in a traditional spread of falafel, hummus, foul (fava bean stew), and freshly baked bread.
Visit the Amman Citadel and Roman Theater
Dive into Jordan’s history at the Amman Citadel, an archaeological site with sweeping city views and ancient ruins. A short walk away is the Roman Theater, a beautifully preserved amphitheater showcasing Jordan’s rich past.
Afternoon
Stroll Rainbow Street
Enjoy a leisurely walk along Rainbow Street, lined with boutique shops, cafes, and vibrant street art. Stop for lunch at Sufra, where you can savor traditional Jordanian dishes.
Evening
Try Jordanian cuisine for dinner
Wrap up your first day with dinner at Reem al-Bawadi or Kan Zaman. Don’t miss dishes like mansaf (lamb with rice and yogurt sauce) and maqluba (upside-down rice dish). For dessert a must try & local’s favourite is Kunafa at any branch of Habibah Sweets – Downtown – Next to AlAraby Bank.
Day 2: Visit the Dead Sea and Stay Overnight in Petra
Morning
Relax at the Dead Sea
For a day trip to Dead Sea, either book a Jett bus or drive to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth. Float effortlessly in its salty waters and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of the mineral-rich mud. If you book Jett bus, you can either book a one way or return.
Afternoon
Drive to Petra
After lunch by the Dead Sea, embark on a scenic drive or bus ride to Petra. Along the way, you can stop at Mount Nebo or Madaba to explore religious and historical sites if self driving.
Evening
Overnight in Petra
Settle into your accommodation near Petra. Consider staying at Petra Cabin Hostel for its close proximity to the site or above recommended places. Have an early dinner and rest up for an exciting day ahead.
Day 3: Explore Petra
Morning
Enter the Rose City
Wake up early to experience Petra without the crowds. Walk through the Siq to the iconic Treasury, then continue exploring the Street of Facades, the Royal Tombs, and the Monastery (Ad-Deir). At the start of the Monastery hike and sometimes along the way, there were people hassling me to take a horse or donkey or pressing me to buy something which was frustrating but once I got over those, the hike itself was pretty good. Once you are done with the hike and back at the starting point, walk another roughly 1-2KM for a shuttle bus station which can drop you off at the gate so you don’t have to walk all the way back but there are cut off times so check/beware of it beforehand. I was told 4pm was the last shuttle but there were some more shuttles.
Afternoon
Have lunch at the Basin Restaurant
Take a break and enjoy lunch at the Basin Restaurant, conveniently located within Petra or bring your own food.
Evening
Petra by Night
If you are there on the right days, experience the magical “Petra by Night” event, where the Treasury is illuminated by candlelight, accompanied by traditional Bedouin music. If not, the Petra museum was open till 8 which I enjoyed and town itself has many restaurants and shops to keep you occupied. Also, after walking all day probably just want to grab nice dinner and relax.
Day 4: Adventure in Wadi Rum
Morning
Jeep Safari in the Desert
How to go from Petra to Wadi Rum above also known as the Valley of the Moon. I had read about few girls having bad experience visiting wadi rum so I was concerned and careful in my selection of the tour company. After doing tons of research, I found my perfect match – Wild Wadi Rum.
Afternoon
Explore Wadi Rum
I was short on time but lucky to collaborate with Wild Wadi Rum, and it exceeded my expectations. Salman and his family welcomed me with warm tea, living up to their glowing reviews and heartfelt story on their website. What initially drew me to their camp was their authentic connection to the land and culture. I even had the privilege of meeting Salman’s father and brothers, learning about their way of life in the desert, and hearing stories about their family’s deep roots in Wadi Rum.
During my stay, I met a friendly couple from the US, and together, under the guidance of Salman’s father, we set off on a jeep safari. The tour revealed Wadi Rum’s breathtaking landscapes, rolling sand dunes, ancient rock carvings, and iconic film locations. A highlight for me was visiting the four famous rock bridges, with Um Frouth Rock Arch standing out as my favorite.
Wild Wadi Rum offers more than just a stay; it’s a complete experience. Their cozy tents come with clean blankets, modern bathrooms, hot showers, and delicious, authentic Bedouin meals. Evenings were magical, spent stargazing under one of the clearest skies I’ve ever seen, accompanied by cultural insights and warm hospitality. I wholeheartedly recommend Wild Wadi Rum for an unforgettable desert adventure, and I hope to return one day to explore even more deeply.
Evening
Zarb and Stargazing in Wadi Rum
While exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Wadi Rum, Salman surprised us with a traditional Bedouin feast at the camp. The meal featured dishes like zarb, a flavorful combination of slow-cooked meat and vegetables prepared underground. After dinner, we settled in for the night, surrounded by the serenity of the desert. Sleeping under the stars in a Bedouin camp was an unforgettable experience—Wadi Rum’s crystal-clear skies are renowned for offering some of the best stargazing in the world. It was a magical way to end the day.
Day 5: Return to Amman
Morning
Visit Little Petra (Triclinium)
Before leaving Wadi Rum, stop by Little Petra (Siq al-Barid) to see its charming rock-cut architecture. But if you are tight on time, get on the first bus to Amman in the morning. There was no Jett bus from Wadi to Petra or Amman so, either I had to book the same minibus that I came with to Petra then get on Jett bus from Petra to Amman but the local minibus only left once a day at 6AM and Jett bus from Petra to Amman was leaving at 5 PM so eta in Amman around 8PM but I was to spend the whole day in Petra.
Alternate solution was offered by the minibus man- that he can put me in direct local bus to Amman and I would arrive earlier in Amman ard 2PM. I cancelled my ticket with Jett bus and went with his option. It was a local bus as in there were people smoking IN THE BUS! Plus the bus dropped me off at a different spot than what I was told and finally I arrived in Amman around 4pm. All in all I saved 4 hours arriving early still not sure if it was worth all the smoke in the bus!
Afternoon
Return to Amman
Arrive back to Amman and enjoy a relaxed afternoon shopping for souvenirs at the city’s bustling souks.
Evening
Farewell Dinner
End your trip with a farewell dinner at Fakhreldin Restaurant, known for its exquisite Levantine cuisine.
Let me know in the comments:
If you have any questions about this 5 days in Jordan itinerary
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