Jordan is a feast for all the senses, from treks through swirling sands and candlelit visits to the Nabatean city of Petra to camping under the stars in Wadi Rum and days spent floating in the Dead Sea. Yet, while most visitors make a beeline for the big attractions, the best things to do in Jordan don’t always involve traveling far and wide. Many can be found much closer to the capital, Amman, which boasts bustling streets that hide Roman ruins, colorful markets, and a treasure trove of culinary delights.
Jordan is most popular in the spring and fall, when days are sunny and warm and evenings are pleasantly cool. Temperatures hover around 77°F (25°C) during these seasons, offering ideal conditions for exploring archaeological sites (including Petra) and nature reserves. Big annual events such as the Aqaba Traditional Arts Festival in February—a celebration of Bedouin culture and crafts—also attract visitors.
Jordan’s public transportation is pretty limited. In Amman, use the metered green-and-yellow cabs or ride-sharing apps. To travel between cities, you can take public buses—which leave when they’re full—or shared service taxis. Alternatively, book a seat with a private bus company like JETT buses, which also offers long-distance routes around the country. For a more comfortable trip (and more flexibility), you can rent a car or—if you’re a nervous driver—hire a driver or book private tours. If you’re traveling between Amman and Aqaba, you can also take a domestic flight.
If you’re taking a cab anywhere in Jordan, be aware that women shouldn’t sit in the passenger front seat next to a male driver—it’s considered impolite. Also, try to avoid cab trips (or any driving) during the morning or evening rush hours. Congestion at these times can be nightmarish and chaotic, and you’ll likely encounter long delays with the meter ticking and lot of stress (whether you’re riding in a cab or driving a rental car).
