Al-Khazneh
AsiaCultureHistoryUrban

Amman

Hills, markets, and a base for the Levant

Plan with AISee the 2 itinerariesPhoto: Susanahajer, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Best timeMarch-May or September-November for mild weather
Typical trip length3–7 days
On travli2 itineraries
Getting aroundDrive or hire a car between Amman, Petra and Wadi Rum
CurrencyJordanian dinar (JOD)

About Amman

Amman is the capital of Jordan, built across a series of steep hills with limestone houses stacked along their slopes. The Citadel on Jabal al-Qal'a holds the Temple of Hercules and the Umayyad Palace. Below it sits the Roman Theatre, cut into the hillside downtown.

Downtown lanes around the King Hussein Mosque are full of spice shops, sweet stalls, and falafel counters. Rainbow Street in Jabal Amman has cafes and older villas. The city is a practical base for day trips to Jerash, the Dead Sea, and Madaba, and for longer routes south to Petra and Wadi Rum.

Why travelers love it

Top attractions

2 Amman itineraries

Amman questions

Is 3 days enough for Amman, Petra and Wadi Rum?

Three days works if you limit time in Amman and move on the same day. Book a driver for the Amman to Petra leg in advance to keep the schedule tight.

Do I need to book Petra tickets ahead?

Tickets are sold at the visitor centre. One-day entry is 50 dinars if you stay at least one night in Jordan. The Jordan Pass covers Petra entry and the visa fee and often saves money.

How do I get from Amman to Petra?

Hire a private driver or take the JETT bus from Amman to Petra, a three-hour trip. Reserve transport the day before departure.

Do I need a guide for Wadi Rum?

A licensed guide or jeep tour is required to enter the Wadi Rum protected area. Book the tour in advance through an official operator.

How many days do you need in Petra?

Two full days cover the main trail, the Monastery and the High Place of Sacrifice. Enter at 6:30am to beat the heat and crowds.

Do you need a guide for Wadi Rum?

A licensed guide or jeep tour is required to enter the protected area. Book through a Petra hotel for 50-80 USD per person.