2 Weeks in Jordan: The Perfect 14 Day Itinerary

Looking for the perfect 2 week Jordan itinerary? This is the route we followed on our own two-week trip through the country.

We travelled through Jordan in 2017, starting in Amman and making our way from the north of the country right down to Aqaba on the Red Sea.

Along the way we visited the big bucket-list sights – including Petra, Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea – but also had time for places that don’t make it onto every Jordan itinerary.

Two weeks might sound like a long time for a relatively small country, but I loved having the extra time.

We weren’t rushing from one major attraction to the next, and some of the less famous stops added just as much to the trip.

I’ve updated the practical information in this guide to help you plan a trip today, while the experiences and opinions are based on our travels in 2017.

This article may contain affiliate links. This means that if you make a purchase after clicking on a link, I may receive a small commission. Read the full disclaimer here.

2 Weeks in Jordan

I think two weeks is a fantastic amount of time to spend in Jordan.

This 14-day Jordan itinerary takes you from Amman to Jerash, the Dead Sea, Petra, Wadi Rum, Aqaba and the Dana Biosphere Reserve before returning to Amman.

Even with two weeks, there were places we didn’t get to see, so I’ve included some additional ideas and shorter itinerary options later in this guide.

Planning Your 2 Week Jordan Itinerary

Before getting into the day-by-day itinerary, there are a few things worth knowing.

When is the Best Time to Visit Jordan?

Spring and autumn are generally the most comfortable times to travel around Jordan, particularly if you’re planning plenty of outdoor sightseeing.

We visited in late October 2017, and I thought it was a great time to be there. Petra was still surprisingly warm once we’d been walking for a few hours.

Summer can be extremely hot, particularly around Petra, Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea, while winter can be cold – and Amman can even see snow.

Jordan also has very different elevations and climates, so don’t assume the weather in Amman will be the same as the Dead Sea or Aqaba.

How to Get Around Jordan

We used a mixture of public buses and private drivers.

It worked, but if I were planning the same trip today, I’d seriously consider hiring a car. It gives you much more flexibility for places such as Madaba, Mount Nebo and the King’s Highway.

The one place I wouldn’t be particularly keen to drive is central Amman. If possible, I’d arrange your hire car so you don’t need it while exploring the city.

If you don’t want to drive, you can still travel independently using buses, private transfers and organised day trips.

Do You Need the Jordan Pass?

If you’re planning to visit Petra and several other attractions, investigate the Jordan Pass before you arrive.

There are three versions, giving you one, two or three consecutive days at Petra, and the pass includes entry to more than 40 attractions around Jordan.

Depending on your nationality and length of stay, it may also mean your tourist visa fee is waived. Visa rules and conditions can change, so check the official information before purchasing.

Read my guide: Is the Jordan Pass Worth It?

Check the Current Travel Advice

Check the latest government travel advice before booking and again before you leave.

At the time of this update, in September 2026, Smartraveller advises Australians to reconsider their need to travel to Jordan because of the unpredictable security situation in Jordan and the wider region.

Conditions can change quickly and may affect flights, airspace and land border crossings.

Check the latest Smartraveller advice for Jordan

Day One – Arrive in Jordan

Most international visitors flying into Jordan arrive at Queen Alia International Airport, around 30 kilometres south of central Amman.

Before you arrive, check the current visa requirements for your nationality and make sure you’ve investigated the Jordan Pass.

Getting from Queen Alia Airport to Amman

Options for getting into Amman include airport taxis, buses, transport apps and private transfers.

Check prices for a private transfer from Queen Alia Airport to Amman

Once you’ve checked into your accommodation, I wouldn’t plan too much for the rest of the day.

After a long international flight, particularly if you’re coming from Australia, use the time to settle in, explore around your hotel and find somewhere nearby for your first Jordanian meal.

There’s plenty coming over the next two weeks.

Where to Stay in Amman

We were mostly travelling on a budget and stayed at the Amman Pasha Hotel.

It’s in a fantastic location in Downtown Amman, right near the Roman Theatre. When we stayed, it had a bit of a hostel feel despite being a hotel, with communal spaces where we could meet other travellers.

The accommodation itself was fairly basic, but it suited our budget and what we needed at the time.

The hotel is still operating, although recent reviews are mixed, so I’d read the latest feedback before booking rather than relying solely on my 2017 experience.

Check the latest prices and reviews for the Amman Pasha Hotel

If you’re staying elsewhere, I’d look for somewhere in or close to Downtown Amman. For a first visit, being able to walk to restaurants, markets and some of the main sights is more important to me than having a fancy hotel.

Day Two – Explore Amman

Spend your first full day getting to know Amman.

We started with a walking tour organised through our hotel – but that one no longer exists.

I love doing a walking tour early in a trip because it helps me get my bearings while learning some of the history and stories behind what I’m seeing.

Find another free walking tour in Amman (there’s even a free food tour which looks fabulous!)

Afterwards, explore some of Amman’s main sights.

I’d make the Amman Citadel a priority. Sitting high above Downtown Amman, it’s home to the Temple of Hercules, the Umayyad Palace complex and a Byzantine church, as well as fantastic views across the city.

Down below is the Roman Theatre, dating from the second century and once able to hold around 6,000 people.

Depending on your interests, you could also visit:

• The Jordan Museum
• King Abdullah I Mosque
• The Royal Automobile Museum
• The souks and streets of Downtown Amman

Don’t try to squeeze everything in. Amman is worth wandering rather than simply ticking attractions off a list.

What to Eat in Amman

For dinner, head to Hashem Restaurant in Downtown Amman.

Almost everyone seemed to recommend Hashem to us, and it became one of my favourite food experiences in Jordan.

Don’t expect anything fancy. This is the place for simple Middle Eastern food such as falafel, hummus, beans, salad and pita bread, washed down with tea.

I still remember the hummus. I think I’d even go so far as to say it was the best I’ve had anywhere.

After dinner, walk to Habibah Sweets for knafeh.

Knafeh is made with cheese, topped with pastry and soaked in sweet syrup, often with pistachios scattered over the top.

It’s rich, sweet and definitely something to try at least once while you’re in Jordan.

Day Three – Umm Qais, Ajloun and Jerash

Head north of Amman for a full-day trip to Umm Qais, Ajloun Castle and Jerash.

We visited all three in one day. It’s a big day, but a great way to see a different part of Jordan.

Umm Qais

Start at Umm Qais, the site of the ancient city of Gadara, one of the cities of the Roman Decapolis.

As well as Roman ruins, a colonnaded street and theatres, its hilltop location gives you views across the Jordan Valley towards the Sea of Galilee.

Ajloun Castle

Continue to Ajloun Castle, dramatically positioned on a hill overlooking northern Jordan.

The castle was originally built in the 12th century by one of Saladin’s generals and helped protect important routes through the region.

Jerash

Finish at Jerash, which was the highlight of the three stops for me.

Once the Roman city of Gerasa, Jerash contains some incredibly well-preserved Roman ruins.

It’s a huge archaeological site, so allow plenty of time. Look out for Hadrian’s Arch, the Hippodrome, Oval Plaza, theatres and the long Cardo Maximus lined with columns.

Entry is included in the Jordan Pass.

Afterwards, return to Amman. If you still have some energy, head to Rainbow Street for dinner and a wander.

Check prices and availability for a northern Jordan day trip to Umm Qais, Ajloun and Jerash

Day Four – Madaba, Mount Nebo and the Dead Sea

Today it’s time to leave Amman and start making your way south.

We hired a private driver to take us to the Dead Sea, stopping at Madaba and Mount Nebo along the way.

Madaba

Our driver suggested adding Madaba, and I’m glad he did.

Madaba is famous for its mosaics, particularly the sixth-century Madaba Map inside St George’s Church, which depicts the Holy Land, including Jerusalem.

You don’t need a huge amount of time here if you’re continuing to the Dead Sea, but it’s an easy and worthwhile stop.

Mount Nebo

Continue to Mount Nebo, where, according to the Bible, Moses looked out across the Promised Land before his death.

Today you can visit the Memorial Church of Moses, see its mosaics and look out across the Jordan Valley and Dead Sea.

Spend the Afternoon at the Dead Sea

Aim to reach your Dead Sea accommodation around lunchtime or early afternoon.

Floating in the Dead Sea was completely surreal. The water is so salty that you really do just bob around on the surface.

We also covered ourselves in the famous Dead Sea mud before rinsing it off in the water.

A few practical tips: don’t shave immediately before going in, keep the water out of your eyes and expect any tiny cuts or scratches to sting!

I’d stay overnight rather than simply stopping for a quick photo. After three busy sightseeing days, an afternoon floating in the Dead Sea and relaxing at a resort is very welcome.

And stick around for sunset.

Where to Stay at the Dead Sea

Accommodation around the Dead Sea tends to be more expensive than elsewhere in Jordan, so we decided this was the place to splurge.

We stayed at the Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa, which had only been open for a few months when we visited.

After mostly travelling on a budget, it felt incredibly luxurious. Best of all, we could simply walk down from the hotel for a float in the Dead Sea.

Most resorts here aren’t in the middle of a town, so check what facilities and dining options your accommodation provides.

I’d also consider paying a little more for somewhere with private Dead Sea access. It makes the whole experience much easier.

See more accommodation options at the Dead Sea

Day Five – Travel to Wadi Musa

Today, make your way south to Wadi Musa, the town beside Petra and your base for the next three nights.

We arranged a private driver through our accommodation. If you’re hiring a car, you can easily do this independently.

The direct drive takes around three hours, but you could stop at Karak Castle or incorporate part of the King’s Highway into the journey.

Arriving in Wadi Musa

If you’re planning to see Petra by Night, check the current schedule before finalising your itinerary. You might want to do it tonight or tomorrow night.

The experience has changed since our visit. It was revamped in 2025 and now combines the candlelit walk through the Siq with projections, light, sound and narration at the Treasury.

At the time of writing, it runs Sunday to Thursday from 8:30pm to around 10:30pm. It requires a separate ticket and isn’t included in the Jordan Pass.

Currently tickets can only be purchased in person on the day of your visit from our office at the Petra Visitor Center.

Otherwise, enjoy a slower start at the Dead Sea and get an early night in Wadi Musa.

You’ll want plenty of energy tomorrow.

Read my guide to spending two days at Petra

Where to Stay in Wadi Musa

We stayed at the Petra Gate Hotel.

It was basic but very cheap and had everything we needed. The downside was that it was a reasonable distance from Petra.

After spending all day walking, the last thing you want is another long walk back to your hotel!

If I were choosing now, I’d prioritise location and stay as close to the Petra Visitor Centre as my budget allowed.

The Petra Guest House Hotel is only a few steps from the entrance, and there are plenty of other hotels within a short walk.

See more accommodation in Wadi Musa

Day Six – Your First Day at Petra

Today is the day you’ve probably been waiting for – Petra.

My biggest tip is simple: get up early.

The Petra Visitor Centre currently opens at 6am, and it’s worth getting there as close to opening time as you reasonably can.

We visited in late October and even then it was getting warm by late morning. Starting early also gave us some quieter time before the larger tour groups arrived.

And then there’s that first walk through the Siq.

Nothing really prepares you for reaching the end of the narrow gorge and suddenly seeing the Treasury appear between the rock walls.

But don’t make the mistake of thinking the Treasury is Petra. It’s really just the beginning.

Continue deeper into the site to see some of the tombs, temples and other remains of this enormous ancient city.

How much you do will depend on the weather, your fitness and the trails you choose. There’s no prize for seeing everything on the first day.

Once you’ve had enough, head back to Wadi Musa and put your feet up.

Day Seven – Explore More of Petra

Head back into Petra early for your second day.

This is your opportunity to venture beyond the main route and explore some of the trails and lesser-visited parts of the site.

Some of the most beautiful and interesting things we saw were away from the main path.

One of the big walks is the trail to Ad Deir – the Monastery. Getting there involves plenty of steps, so allow enough time and take plenty of water.

There are also trails to viewpoints and other parts of the archaeological site, so choose what appeals to you rather than trying to cover every possible route.

Over our time at Petra, we walked around 42 kilometres – but a good portion of that was walking to and from our accommodation.

That’s one reason I recommend two days. Petra isn’t somewhere you should rush through just so you can say you’ve seen the Treasury.

Day Eight – Wadi Rum

After two big days at Petra, swap ancient ruins for the desert landscapes of Wadi Rum.

We took a local bus from Wadi Musa, with our accommodation helping us organise it the day before.

If you’re driving, arrange with your camp where to meet them. If you’re relying on public transport or transfers, I’d organise this journey in advance.

Exploring Wadi Rum

Wadi Rum is huge, so you’ll need a local guide and 4WD to properly explore the desert.

Most camps can organise tours ranging from a few hours to full-day experiences.

We spent the afternoon exploring with our guide, stopping at different rock formations and viewpoints along the way.

Stay Overnight in the Desert

I definitely recommend spending a night in Wadi Rum.

We stayed with Bedouin Roads, and our package included our desert tour, accommodation and a traditional evening meal.

Our tent wasn’t one of the luxury bubble tents you see all over Instagram today. It was a much simpler Bedouin-style camp, but the bed was comfortable, the food was tasty and we were very happy with the experience.

Once the sun goes down, head outside and look up. Away from the city lights, Wadi Rum is a fantastic place for stargazing.

See current Wadi Rum desert camps and other experiences

Day Nine – Wadi Rum to Aqaba

Wake up in the desert before making your way south to Aqaba on the Red Sea.

Our final Wadi Rum experience was a camel ride through the desert back towards the village. Our tour company had also organised a driver to take us to Aqaba.

If you’re staying at a desert camp, ask them about onward transport when you book.

A Relaxed Afternoon in Aqaba

Once you’ve arrived and checked into your hotel, don’t plan too much.

After a night in the desert – and in our case, a long camel ride – you’ll probably appreciate a shower, clean clothes and a slower afternoon.

Aqaba is Jordan’s only coastal city and feels very different from the rest of this itinerary.

Wander around town, browse the shops and markets, walk along the waterfront or simply find somewhere with a view of the water.

If you want to do some sightseeing, take a look at Aqaba Castle, Arab Revolt Plaza or Sharif Hussein bin Ali Mosque.

Where to Stay in Aqaba

We stayed at the Golden Rose Hotel, a fairly standard three-star hotel that gave us everything we needed.

If you’re mainly here to snorkel and explore, a well-located hotel in town may be enough. I

f you’re looking for some downtime after Petra and Wadi Rum, consider spending a little more for somewhere with direct beach access.

See current accommodation options in Aqaba

Day Ten – Snorkelling in the Red Sea

Today is all about the Red Sea – or at least, that was our plan!

We had intended to spend the day snorkelling, but after our long camel ride in Wadi Rum the day before, we woke up far too sore to contemplate it.

If I were planning the itinerary again, though, I’d absolutely keep a day in Aqaba for snorkelling (and not ride that camel!).

Since our visit, the Aqaba Marine Reserve has been established along seven kilometres of coastline south of the city, protecting coral reefs, seagrass beds and marine life.

You can join a snorkelling boat trip or visit sites accessible from shore.

One popular area is Japanese Garden, where the coral is relatively shallow and snorkellers can see colourful fish and perhaps even a hawksbill turtle.

If you’re a scuba diver, you may want to spend more time in Aqaba. There are more than 30 dive sites in the marine reserve, including reefs and deliberately submerged wrecks.

Whether you’re snorkelling or diving, don’t touch or stand on the coral, don’t collect anything and give marine life plenty of space.

And if your whole body is protesting after Wadi Rum like ours were? Take the day off, enjoy Aqaba and at least make sure you catch sunset over the Red Sea.

See current snorkelling experiences here

Day Eleven – Aqaba to Feynan Ecolodge

Today, leave Aqaba and head north to Feynan Ecolodge in the Dana Biosphere Reserve.

We travelled there by local bus. It was certainly an experience and considerably cheaper than a private transfer, but it took most of the day.

If I were doing it now, I’d make the journey simpler.

Feynan is around two hours from Aqaba by car, but the final eight kilometres are along an unpaved track.

Unless you have a suitable vehicle, you can leave your car at the Feynan reception centre and arrange a transfer with a local Bedouin driver.

Why Stay at Feynan Ecolodge?

Feynan isn’t just somewhere to sleep. Staying here is part of the experience.

The lodge isn’t connected to the electricity grid and generates its electricity using solar power. Much of it is illuminated by candles after dark.

Meals are vegetarian and inspired by local Jordanian food, while many of the activities involve exploring the Dana Biosphere Reserve or learning about local Bedouin culture.

What I particularly enjoyed was the opportunity to spend time with local people and talk about their lives and culture.

It’s not a cheap addition to the itinerary, but for me it added something completely different.

Check current rates and availability at Feynan Ecolodge

Day Twelve – Explore Around Feynan

Today you don’t need to go anywhere.

Spend the day enjoying Feynan and the Dana Biosphere Reserve.

The lodge offers guided and self-guided walks, but I wouldn’t spend the whole day hiking.

Depending on what’s available, you might learn how to make Arabic coffee or traditional bread, spend time with a local family, join a cooking experience or learn about the area’s history.

Later, consider a sunset walk before returning to the lodge for dinner.

Then head outside again after dark. With very little artificial light around Feynan, it’s a fantastic place for stargazing.

Most importantly, don’t feel you have to fill every minute.

After Amman, Jerash, the Dead Sea, Petra, Wadi Rum and Aqaba, a slower day is very welcome.

Day Thirteen – Return to Amman

It’s time to leave Feynan and make your way back to Amman for your final night.

Depending on your transport arrangements, you may have time for another short walk, a lodge activity or simply a leisurely breakfast before leaving.

Once you’re back in Amman, keep your final evening flexible.

If you missed the Amman Citadel earlier, this could be a good opportunity to visit, provided the opening hours work with your arrival time.

Otherwise, wander around Downtown Amman, pick up any last-minute souvenirs and enjoy one final Jordanian meal.

And if you loved Hashem as much as I did, I wouldn’t blame you for going back for another plate of hummus and falafel.

Day Fourteen – Going Home

And just like that, your two weeks in Jordan are over.

Make your way back to Queen Alia International Airport for your flight home.

If you have a late flight, you could enjoy one last wander around Amman or a leisurely Jordanian lunch, but I wouldn’t plan anything too ambitious.

Give yourself plenty of time to reach the airport, particularly if you’re returning a hire car.

And start thinking about which Jordanian dish you’re going to try to recreate when you get home.

Other Places to Add to Your Jordan Itinerary

Even with two weeks, we didn’t manage to see everything.

If you have more time or want to swap something out, consider:

Bethany Beyond the Jordan

Bethany Beyond the Jordan, or Al-Maghtas, is the UNESCO-listed archaeological site traditionally identified as the place where John the Baptist baptised Jesus.

Its location north of the Dead Sea means it could be added to your journey from Amman.

Wadi Mujib

For more adventure, consider Wadi Mujib near the Dead Sea.

The famous Siq Trail involves wading and swimming through a narrow gorge and negotiating waterfalls with ropes and ladders.

It’s seasonal, generally operating from April to October, so check current conditions before planning your trip around it.

Azraq Wetland Reserve and the Desert Castles

East of Amman, Azraq Wetland Reserve is an oasis and important stopping point for migratory birds.

Combine it with Jordan’s Desert Castles, including Qasr Al-Kharanah, Qasr Azraq and UNESCO-listed Quseir Amra.

The King’s Highway

If you’re hiring a car, consider spending more time on the historic King’s Highway, including stops at Karak Castle and Shobak Castle on the way south.

Ma’in Hot Springs

Near Madaba and the Dead Sea, Ma’in Hot Springs is another option if you want to add some relaxation to your itinerary.

Umm ar-Rasas

Umm ar-Rasas is a UNESCO World Heritage Site south of Madaba with Roman, Byzantine and Early Islamic remains, particularly known for its mosaic floors.

What if You Don’t Have Two Weeks in Jordan?

If you have less time, I’d concentrate on fewer places rather than trying to squeeze the entire route into a shorter trip.

4 Days in Jordan

With four days, I’d focus on Amman, the Dead Sea, Petra and Wadi Rum.

Day 1: Explore Amman before travelling to the Dead Sea, stopping at Madaba and Mount Nebo if time allows.

Day 2: Travel early to Wadi Musa and spend the day exploring Petra.

Day 3: Spend a few more hours at Petra before travelling to Wadi Rum for a desert tour and overnight camp.

Day 4: Enjoy your final morning in Wadi Rum before returning to Amman.

Four days is fast. If possible, I’d stay another night in Amman rather than trying to combine the return drive with an international flight.

5 Days in Jordan

With five days, I’d use the extra day either to give Petra more time or stay longer in Amman and take a day trip to Jerash.

Which option you choose depends on what interests you most.

One Week in Jordan

A week gives you much more breathing room.

I’d spend a couple of days based in Amman, including a day trip to Jerash, before travelling via Madaba and Mount Nebo to the Dead Sea.

From there, continue south for two days at Petra, followed by an overnight stay in Wadi Rum.

If snorkelling or diving in the Red Sea is important to you, add Aqaba – but something else will need to give.

I’d rather choose fewer places and have time to enjoy them than spend the entire trip packing bags and sitting in a car.

Is Two Weeks in Jordan Worth It?

Absolutely.

When we travelled through Jordan in 2017, two weeks initially felt like a generous amount of time for such a small country. By the end, I still had a list of places I would have liked to see.

Of course, Petra was incredible. Floating in the Dead Sea and spending a night in Wadi Rum were every bit as memorable as I’d hoped.

But some of my favourite parts came from having enough time to go beyond those big-name attractions – staying at Feynan Ecolodge, exploring Jerash and simply spending time talking to local people along the way.

If you can give Jordan two weeks, do it.

You’ll have time to slow down, explore a little further and see much more of the country.

And if you only have a week – or even four or five days – choose the places that interest you most and leave the rest for another trip.

Because if there’s one thing our two weeks in Jordan taught me, it’s that there’s far more to this little country than Petra.

Booking soon? Use the information below to get started

Found this post useful? Share with your friends and pin for later