One of the best ways to explore Jordan is by car. With a well-maintained network of roads, it’s easy to travel from one place to another, and you can enjoy the freedom to stop and explore wherever you like. In this blog post, we will guide you through a one-week itinerary for Jordan by car, including things to do, travel times between stops, where to eat, and where to sleep.
Day 1: Amman
Your journey in Jordan will most likely start in the capital city of Amman, which is located in the north of the country. After arriving at Queen Alia International Airport, you can rent a car and start your adventure.
Amman is a city of contrasts, with modern skyscrapers and ancient ruins coexisting side by side. Spend your first day exploring the city’s landmarks, including the Roman Theatre, the Citadel, and the Royal Automobile Museum. If you have time, make a stop at the Jordan Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Jordan’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Where to eat: For a taste of authentic Jordanian cuisine, head to Al-Quds Restaurant in downtown Amman. The restaurant is known for its delicious hummus, falafel, and shawarma, as well as its friendly atmosphere and reasonable prices.
Where to sleep: Amman has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. If you’re looking for a luxury stay, check out the Four Seasons Hotel Amman, which offers panoramic views of the city and a range of amenities, including a spa, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool. For a more affordable option, consider staying at the Art Hotel Downtown, which is located in the heart of the city and offers stylish and comfortable rooms.
Day 2-3: Jerash and Ajloun
On day two, it’s time to hit the road and head north to the ancient city of Jerash. The journey will take you about an hour and a half, depending on traffic. Jerash is one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world and is home to some of the most impressive ancient ruins in Jordan.
Spend a few hours exploring the ruins, including the Temple of Artemis, the Hippodrome, and the Oval Plaza. Make sure to also visit the Jerash Archaeological Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the history of the city.
After Jerash, continue your journey to the nearby town of Ajloun, which is known for its stunning views of the Jordan Valley and its famous castle. The Ajloun Castle was built in the 12th century and was used to defend the region against the Crusaders. Take a tour of the castle and enjoy the panoramic views from its top.
Where to eat: For a taste of traditional Jordanian cuisine, stop by the Haret Jdoudna Restaurant in Ajloun. The restaurant is located in a restored 19th-century house and offers a range of local dishes, including mansaf, kofta, and makloubeh.
Where to sleep: Ajloun has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. If you’re looking for a luxurious stay, check out the Ajloun Hotel, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and a range of amenities, including a spa, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool. For a more budget-friendly option, consider staying at the Ajloun Cabins, which offer cozy and comfortable accommodation in a peaceful setting.
Jerash
Day 4-5: Petra
On day four, it’s time to head south to the ancient city of Petra, which is one of the most iconic sights in Jordan. The journey from Ajloun to Petra will take you around 3-4 hours, depending on traffic.
Petra is an ancient city that was carved into the red rock cliffs by the Nabataean people over 2000 years ago. Spend two full days exploring the city and its many sights, including the Treasury, the Monastery, and the High Place of Sacrifice.
Don’t miss the chance to take a guided tour of Petra, which will give you a deeper insight into the history and culture of this fascinating city. You can also take a camel or horseback ride to explore the city in a unique way.
Where to eat: Petra has a range of restaurants and cafes to suit all tastes and budgets. For a quick and affordable meal, head to Aladdin’s Restaurant, which offers a range of Middle Eastern dishes, including falafel, hummus, and shawarma. For a more upscale dining experience, try the Basin Restaurant, which serves a range of international and Jordanian cuisine.
Where to sleep: Petra has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. If you’re looking for a luxurious stay, check out the Petra Marriott Hotel, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and a range of amenities, including a spa, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool. For a more budget-friendly option, consider staying at the Petra Moon Hotel, which offers comfortable and convenient accommodation just a few minutes’ walk from the entrance to Petra.
Day 6-7: Wadi Rum
On day six, it’s time to head to the desert and explore the stunning landscape of Wadi Rum. The journey from Petra to Wadi Rum will take you around an hour and a half.
Wadi Rum is a desert valley that is known for its dramatic rock formations, stunning landscapes, and rich history. Spend two days exploring the desert and its many sights, including the Seven Pillars of Wisdom, the Lawrence Spring, and the Khazali Canyon.
Take a guided tour of Wadi Rum to learn more about the history and culture of the region, and don’t miss the chance to go on a camel or jeep safari to explore the desert in a unique way.
Where to eat: Wadi Rum has a range of Bedouin-style camps and restaurants that offer traditional Jordanian cuisine. For a unique dining experience, try the Zarb, which is a Bedouin-style barbecue that is cooked in a pit in the ground and includes meat, vegetables, and rice.
Where to sleep: Wadi Rum has a range of Bedouin-style camps and lodges that offer comfortable and convenient accommodation in the desert. For a luxurious stay, check out the Sun City Camp, which offers stylish and comfortable tents with stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape. For a more budget-friendly option, consider staying at the Bedouin Meditation Camp, which offers simple but comfortable accommodation and a range of activities, including camel rides and hiking.
Wadi Rum
Conclusion
Jordan is a country that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, and exploring it by car is one of the best ways to experience everything it has to offer. With this one-week itinerary, you can explore the best sights in Jordan, including Amman, Jerash, Ajloun, Petra, and Wadi Rum, while also enjoying delicious Jordanian cuisine and comfortable accommodation. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker, or a foodie, Jordan has something for everyone, and this itinerary will give you a taste of everything the country has to offer.
When exploring Jordan by car, it’s important to be prepared and take the necessary precautions. Make sure you have a valid driver’s license and insurance, and be prepared for some bumpy roads and challenging terrain in some areas. It’s also important to respect local customs and traditions and dress modestly when visiting religious sites or conservative areas.
Overall, a week in Jordan by car is an unforgettable experience that will leave you with memories that last a lifetime. From the bustling streets of Amman to the ancient ruins of Jerash, the stunning landscapes of Wadi Rum, and the awe-inspiring sights of Petra, Jordan is a country that is sure to capture your heart and leave you wanting more.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your Jordanian adventure today and get ready to embark on the trip of a lifetime!
