Jordan, a fascinating country in the Middle East, is known for its rich history and diverse landscapes. It’s home to a number of wonderful attractions, including the stunning ancient city of Petra, the breathtaking Wadi Rum desert, and the incredible Dead Sea. Visitors can explore historical ruins, go on desert adventures, or float effortlessly in mineral-rich waters. Jordan has a dry, warm climate, with scorching summers and mild winters, making it ideal to visit year-round.

There are plenty of fascinating places waiting to be explored in Jordan. Petra, known as the “Rose City”, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning rock-cut architecture, including the famous Treasury. Wadi Rum, often called the “Valley of the Moon”, has dramatic sandstone mountains and huge red dunes, making it perfect for jeep tours and stargazing. The Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth, lets visitors float effortlessly in its salty, therapeutic waters. The varied landscape means there are plenty of things to see and do throughout Jordan.

Jordan is a fantastic destination for all types of travellers. History buffs will love exploring all the ruins and ancient landmarks dotted around the country, while adrenaline junkies can set off on jeep safaris through the desert. Anyone looking for a cultural holiday is in for a treat, as Jordan offers plenty of opportunities to explore its traditions and customs. There's something for every type of traveller to discover in Jordan.

There are currently no direct flights from Ireland to Jordan but a number of airlines offer many connecting flights per week.

To learn more about things to do in Jordan, the best time to go and local info see here.

Things to Do in Jordan

Attractions 

• Petra is a breathtaking ancient city carved into rose-red cliffs, famous for the iconic Treasury and rich Nabatean history.
• Wadi Rum is a stunning desert landscape with towering sandstone mountains and red dunes. It has been the setting for many films.
• The Dead Sea is the lowest point on Earth, where visitors can float effortlessly in its salty waters.
• Jerash is one of the best-preserved Roman cities, featuring grand colonnaded streets and an impressive amphitheatre.

Nightlife

Jordan’s nightlife offers a mix of modern and traditional experiences. Amman has trendy rooftop bars, lively nightclubs, and stylish lounges, especially in areas like Rainbow Street and Abdoun. Aqaba’s beach resorts offer seaside parties, while Wadi Rum provides unforgettable Bedouin-style nights under the stars with music, storytelling and campfires.

Dining out

Dining out in Jordan is a fantastic experience with a rich blend of Middle Eastern flavours. Popular dishes include mansaf (lamb with rice and yogurt), falafel, and hummus. Amman has a thriving food scene, offering everything from street food stalls to upscale restaurants, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.

For Families 

Jordan offers a range of family-friendly activities, from exploring the ancient city of Petra to visiting the Roman ruins of Jerash. Families can float in the Dead Sea, enjoy a desert adventure in Wadi Rum, or take part in Bedouin cultural experiences, providing a mix of history, fun, and relaxation.

Shopping

Shopping in Jordan combines traditional and modern experiences. Amman’s bustling souks offer handcrafted goods like pottery, textiles, and spices, perfect for souvenir hunting. The markets around Petra also feature unique local crafts. For a more contemporary shopping experience, malls such as City Mall and Mecca Mall offer a variety of international brands, local boutiques and dining options.

Best Time to Go 

The best time to visit Jordan is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant, making it perfect for sightseeing. Summers can be extremely hot, especially in desert areas, while winters can be cold, particularly in high altitude areas like Petra and Amman.

Local Info

Currency 

The currency used in Jordan is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD).

Time Zone

Jordan is 2 hours ahead of Ireland. When Ireland is on daylight saving time, the difference is 3 hours.

Getting around 

Getting around Jordan is relatively easy with various transport options available. Taxis and services like Uber are widely available in cities. For longer distances, buses and minibuses connect major towns and cities. Renting a car is also a popular choice, especially for exploring remote areas.