Being rewarded with gorgeous views over Wadi Rum, after climbing a sand dune.
When I started planning my trip to Jordan, I quickly realised there wasn't one "perfect" itinerary.
Some guides rushed travellers through Petra in a few hours. Others skipped Wadi Rum altogether. Many tried to cram too much into too little time.
After spending a week exploring Jordan, I came away feeling there was a much better way to experience this remarkable country.
Jordan is full of magical moments… It's sitting in front of the Treasury before the crowds arrive… drinking sweet Bedouin tea while watching the sun disappear behind mountains in Wadi Rum… . laughing as you unsuccessfully try to stand up in the Dead Sea.
This itinerary combines Jordan's iconic sights with enough flexibility to actually enjoy them. If it's your first visit, I genuinely think this is the perfect introduction.
At a Glance
Day 1: Arrive in Amman, stay in Amman.
Day 2: Jerash, Madaba, Mount Nebo, Dead Sea. Stay near the Dead Sea.
Day 3: Dead Sea to Petra. Stay in Wadi Musa.
Day 4: Petra. Stay in Wadi Musa.
Day 5: Petra, Little Petra, Wadi Rum. Stay in Wadi Rum.
Day 6: Wadi Rum, Aqaba. Stay in Aqaba.
Day 7: Return to Amman. Departure.
Before You Go
Before arriving in Jordan I recommend:
Purchasing the Jordan Pass
Hiring a rental car if you're comfortable driving
Downloading offline Google Maps
Booking Petra accommodation close to the Visitor Centre
Staying overnight in Wadi Rum
Packing layers for the desert
Day 1 - Arrive in Amman
After landing at Queen Alia International Airport, collect your hire car (or arrange your transfer) and head into Amman. Rather than trying to fit in sightseeing immediately, use today to ease into Jordanian life. Check into your hotel and head out for a relaxed afternoon exploring the capital.
Afternoon
Visit:
Rainbow Street
Downtown Amman
Roman Theatre
Local cafés
If time allows, wander through the bustling streets and soak up your first impressions of Jordan. You'll notice the city's white limestone buildings cascading across the surrounding hills, creating one of the Middle East's most distinctive skylines.
Dinner
Jordanian food is one of the highlights of travelling here.
Try a selection of mezze including:
hummus
baba ganoush
falafel
tabbouleh
fresh flatbread
If you're vegan like me, you'll find plenty of naturally plant-based dishes.
Stay
I recommend staying around Rainbow Street or central Amman so you can easily explore on foot.
Day 2 - Jerash, Madaba, Mount Nebo & the Dead Sea
Driving Time: Approximately 3.5-4.5 hours total
Today is packed with history. Leave Amman early and head north to Jerash before working your way south towards the Dead Sea.
Morning - Jerash
Jerash completely exceeded my expectations. Many visitors overlook it because Petra receives all the attention, but Jerash is one of the best-preserved Roman cities anywhere in the world.
Spend around three hours exploring:
Hadrian's Arch
Oval Plaza
Temple of Artemis
South Theatre
Cardo Maximus
Walking along the ancient stone streets, it's surprisingly easy to imagine what life looked like here nearly 2,000 years ago.
Optional Stop – Ajloun Castle
If you have extra time, continue another 30 minutes north to Ajloun Castle. Perched high on a hilltop, this 12th-century Islamic fortress offers sweeping views over northern Jordan. If you're short on time, you can comfortably skip this stop.
Afternoon – Madaba
Drive south towards Madaba.
Often called the City of Mosaics, Madaba is best known for the remarkable sixth-century mosaic map housed inside St George's Church. The town itself has a much slower pace than Amman and makes an enjoyable stop for lunch.
Mount Nebo
Just ten minutes from Madaba lies Mount Nebo.
According to tradition, this is where Moses viewed the Promised Land. Whether you're religious or not, the panoramic views across the Jordan Valley and towards the Dead Sea are spectacular. On a clear day, you can even see Jerusalem in the distance.
Sunset at the Dead Sea
Finish the day by checking into your Dead Sea resort. If time allows, head straight down to the water before sunset. Watching the colours change across the surrounding mountains while floating effortlessly is an unforgettable way to end the day.
Tonight is all about slowing down. Enjoy dinner overlooking the water and prepare for another early start tomorrow.
Stay: Dead Sea Resort
Day 3 - Float in the Dead Sea Before Driving to Petra
Driving Time: Approximately 3 hours (Dead Sea to Wadi Musa)
Today is one of my favourite days on the itinerary because it combines one of the world's most unique natural experiences with one of its greatest archaeological wonders.
My biggest recommendation? Get up early. The Dead Sea is far quieter first thing in the morning, the temperatures are cooler, and you'll have a much more peaceful experience before tour buses begin arriving.
Sunrise at the Dead Sea
There's something incredibly calming about the Dead Sea at sunrise.
The water is almost perfectly still, the surrounding mountains glow in the soft morning light, and the atmosphere feels worlds away from the busy resorts later in the day. If you didn't float yesterday afternoon, now's your chance. Even if you did, it's worth getting back in. The feeling never gets old.
If you've seen the classic photo of someone floating while reading a newspaper, this is the perfect opportunity to recreate it. Just be prepared… it takes a little more balance than Instagram would have you believe!
Traveller Tip
Before getting into the water:
Remove any jewellery.
Cover fresh cuts or scratches if possible.
Keep your head above the water.
Bring water shoes to protect your feet from sharp salt crystals.
Shower immediately afterwards.
For a full guide, including what it really feels like to float and the mistakes to avoid, read my guide: Visiting the Dead Sea in Jordan (What It's Really Like)
Drive to Petra
After breakfast, begin the drive south to Wadi Musa, the gateway to Petra.
This drive is surprisingly scenic. The landscape changes constantly as you leave the Jordan Valley and climb into rugged mountain terrain.
Take your time and stop at viewpoints if something catches your eye. One of the joys of hiring a car in Jordan is the freedom to pull over whenever the scenery demands it. Aim to arrive in Wadi Musa around lunchtime.
Check Into Your Hotel
Spend the next two nights in Wadi Musa. I can't stress enough how worthwhile it is to stay close to the Petra Visitor Centre. After walking 20-30 kilometres across two days, you'll be incredibly grateful not to have a long commute back to your accommodation.
Recommended Hotels
Mövenpick Resort Petra
Petra Moon Luxury Hotel
Petra Guest House Hotel
Afternoon: First Visit to Petra
Many itineraries suggest spending just one day in Petra. I disagree. Petra is enormous.
We walked approximately 26 kilometres over two days, and even then we felt like we'd only scratched the surface.
This afternoon isn't about trying to see everything. It's about soaking up the atmosphere and beginning your journey through one of the world's most extraordinary archaeological sites.
Walk through the Siq at your own pace. The towering sandstone walls close in around you before suddenly revealing Petra's most famous landmark... The Treasury. Even though I'd seen countless photos beforehand, nothing prepared me for that first glimpse. It genuinely stopped me in my tracks.
Spend the afternoon exploring:
The Treasury
Street of Facades
Royal Tombs
Roman Theatre
Colonnaded Street
Rather than rushing, take your time. Duck into caves. Look up at the sandstone cliffs. Imagine the bustling Nabataean city that once existed here.
Evening
After a full afternoon exploring, enjoy dinner in Wadi Musa and have an early night. Trust me... Tomorrow starts before sunrise.
A bucket list experience floating in the Dead Sea.
Day 4 - Petra at Sunrise & The Monastery
Today is the highlight of the entire itinerary. If there's one piece of advice I give everyone travelling to Jordan, it's this: Arrive before Petra opens.
Be First Through the Gates
Set your alarm early… really early. Arrive before opening time and line up at the entrance.
As soon as the gates open, walk quickly through the Siq. Okay... We may have run. And I'd do it again in a heartbeat.
The reward?
Having the Treasury almost entirely to ourselves. For around ten magical minutes, there were virtually no other visitors. No crowds. No noise. Just us standing in front of one of the world's greatest wonders.
It remains one of my favourite travel memories of all time.
Continue Exploring Petra
Once the crowds begin arriving, continue exploring the rest of the ancient city.
Highlights include:
The High Place of Sacrifice
A rewarding hike offering panoramic views across Petra.
The Royal Tombs
Magnificent facades carved into colourful sandstone cliffs.
The Great Temple
One of Petra's largest archaeological sites.
Colonnaded Street
Imagine the bustling marketplace that once connected the city.
Hike to the Monastery
By late morning or early afternoon, begin the climb to the Monastery. Yes... there are around 800 steps. Yes... it's worth every single one.
The Monastery is even larger than the Treasury and attracts far fewer visitors. Standing in front of it, surrounded by towering sandstone cliffs and relative silence, feels incredibly special. This became one of my favourite places in Petra.
If you're lucky, you'll even manage photos without anyone else in the frame.
Stay Until Closing
As the afternoon wears on, most tour groups begin leaving.
I recommend doing the opposite. Stay as late as possible. The softer light transforms Petra into a rich palette of reds, oranges and golds. It feels calmer. Quieter. Almost like the city is slowly returning to itself after a busy day.
Should You Do Petra by Night?
Many people ask whether Petra by Night is worth it. Personally... I'd skip it. After two long days of walking, we were exhausted. The lantern-lit Siq is beautiful, but for us, being first at the Treasury at sunrise was a far more memorable experience. If you have limited time or energy, prioritise sunrise instead.
Photography Tip
Today's best photo opportunities:
Treasury at sunrise
Royal Tombs in the morning light
The Monastery in the afternoon
Sandstone textures throughout the Siq
Wide-angle shots from elevated viewpoints
For more detailed advice, including ethical travel tips and avoiding the crowds, read: Guide to Visiting Petra, Jordan: How to Experience the Rose City Without the Crowds
It’s hard to beat the views over the Treasury in Petra.
Day 5 - Little Petra & Wadi Rum
Driving Time: Approximately 2 hours
After two unforgettable days in Petra, it's time to head into one of Jordan's most spectacular landscapes. But before leaving Wadi Musa, make one final stop.
Little Petra (Siq al-Barid)
Located around 15 minutes from Petra, Little Petra is often overlooked. That's exactly why it's worth visiting. While much smaller than Petra, it offers a fascinating glimpse into Nabataean life without the crowds.
You'll find:
narrow sandstone passageways
carved rooms
ancient dining spaces
impressive rock formations
Allow around an hour to explore.
Drive to Wadi Rum
The drive south gradually becomes more dramatic. Mountains rise from the desert. The landscape becomes redder. Bigger. More rugged. Then suddenly... You're surrounded by one of the most extraordinary deserts on Earth. Wadi Rum.
Afternoon Jeep Tour
Most camps include a guided Jeep tour after check-in. This was one of the highlights of my entire Jordan trip.
We bounced across the desert in the back of a ute, stopping to:
climb towering sand dunes
explore canyons
drink traditional Bedouin tea
admire ancient rock formations
watch camels wander through the landscape
One of the things I appreciated most was simply sitting in silence. Wadi Rum doesn't need entertainment. The landscape does all the work.
Sunset in the Desert
As the sun begins to set, climb one of the surrounding dunes. The colours change almost minute by minute. Deep reds become orange… orange becomes gold… and the desert slowly cools. It's impossible not to stop and simply take it all in.
Overnight in a Bedouin Camp
Tonight is one of the most memorable nights of the trip.
Most camps include:
traditional Jordanian dinner
Bedouin music
storytelling
stargazing
comfortable tents
We stayed in a traditional Bedouin camp, and while it wasn't luxurious, it was authentic, welcoming and one of my favourite accommodation experiences in Jordan.
If your budget allows, you might choose a luxury bubble tent instead. Either way... don't rush back to civilisation. Stay overnight. It's what transforms Wadi Rum from a great day trip into an unforgettable experience.
The Wadi Rum desert was a highlight of my trip.
Day 6 - Sunrise in Wadi Rum, Desert Adventures & Aqaba
Driving Time: Approximately 2 hours from Wadi Rum to Aqaba
If there is one morning in Jordan where you should set your alarm, it is this one. Wake before sunrise. Trust me.
Sunrise in Wadi Rum
Before visiting Jordan, I knew Wadi Rum would be beautiful. I didn’t realise how powerful the silence would be.
Walking out into the desert before sunrise was one of those rare travel moments where everything slows down. No traffic. No crowds. No notifications. Just endless sand, towering sandstone mountains and the changing colours of the sky.
As the first light appeared, the desert transformed. The rocks shifted from deep shadows into glowing reds and oranges. The landscape seemed to wake up around us.
We even had an unexpected adventure when we encountered a pack of wild dogs tracking us through the desert before sunrise. Thankfully, a local Bedouin guide passing with his camels helped create enough distance for us to safely return. It was one of those unpredictable travel moments that you never plan for… but somehow become part of the story you tell forever.
Travel tip: Always explore remote landscapes with awareness. Even places that feel peaceful and untouched are still wild environments.
Breakfast at Camp
Return to camp for breakfast before checking out. This is the perfect time to slow down, enjoy the hospitality of your hosts and take in your final moments in this incredible landscape.
If you have additional time, you can extend your Wadi Rum experience with:
extra hiking
rock climbing
sandboarding
longer Jeep tours
stargazing experiences
Drive to Aqaba
After leaving Wadi Rum, continue south towards Aqaba. This is where Jordan changes personality again. After ancient ruins and desert landscapes, Aqaba offers a completely different experience: The Red Sea. The pace slows. The landscape softens. And suddenly, you have the opportunity to relax.
Aqaba: Jordan’s Red Sea Escape
Aqaba is Jordan’s only coastal city and has been an important trading port for thousands of years.
Today, it is best known for:
crystal-clear waters
coral reefs
diving
snorkelling
beach resorts
relaxed restaurants
For travellers completing a fast-paced Jordan itinerary, Aqaba provides a welcome chance to recharge.
Things to Do in Aqaba
Snorkel or Dive the Red Sea
The Red Sea is one of the world’s most famous diving destinations.
The warm waters and healthy coral reefs make it ideal for:
beginner snorkellers
experienced divers
underwater photography
Popular sites include:
Japanese Garden
Cedar Pride Shipwreck
South Beach
Relax at the Beach
After several days of walking through Petra and exploring deserts, a slower afternoon is well deserved. Many visitors choose a beach club or resort where they can swim, relax and enjoy the sunshine.
Explore Aqaba Town
Spend some time wandering through:
local markets
cafés
the waterfront
Aqaba Fort
It offers a different perspective of Jordanian life compared with Amman and Petra.
Where to Stay in Aqaba
Recommended options:
Luxury
Kempinski Hotel Aqaba Red Sea: A beachfront luxury hotel with beautiful Red Sea views and excellent facilities.
Resort Experience
Al Manara, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Saraya Aqaba: A stylish beachfront resort offering a relaxing final night in Jordan.
Mid-Range
Lacosta Hotel Aqaba: A comfortable option close to restaurants and the waterfront.
Day 7 - Aqaba to Amman & Departure
Driving Time: Approximately 4 hours
Your final day depends on your flight schedule. If you have an evening flight, you can enjoy a relaxed morning in Aqaba before driving back to Amman. If your flight departs early, consider staying your final night in Amman instead.
Option 1: Drive Back Via the Desert Highway
The quickest route is via the Desert Highway. It’s straightforward and efficient.
Option 2: Take the Scenic King’s Highway
If you have extra time and your schedule allows, the King’s Highway is one of Jordan’s most beautiful drives.
Stops can include:
Kerak Castle
viewpoints over the valleys
local villages
ancient churches
This route takes longer but offers a much richer experience.
If You Have Extra Time: Extend Your Jordan Trip
While seven days is enough to experience Jordan’s highlights, this country rewards slow travel.
If you can extend your trip, consider adding:
Dana Biosphere Reserve
Perfect for:
hiking
nature lovers
escaping crowds
Aqaba Extra Nights
Ideal if you want:
diving
snorkelling
resort relaxation
More Time in Petra
Two days is excellent.
Three days allows:
additional hiking trails
quieter viewpoints
deeper exploration
Alternative 7-Day Jordan Itinerary Options
Not every traveller wants the same experience. Here are a few ways to adjust this itinerary.
For History Lovers
Add more time to:
Jerash
Madaba
Mount Nebo
Petra
Consider reducing Aqaba.
For Adventure Travellers
Prioritise:
Wadi Rum
Dana Biosphere Reserve
Petra hiking trails
For Relaxation
Add:
extra Dead Sea nights
Aqaba resort time
Jordan Packing List for a 7-Day Trip
The biggest mistake travellers make when packing for Jordan, is packing only for heat. Jordan has dramatic temperature changes. You need layers.
Clothing
Lightweight shirts
Comfortable pants
Walking shoes
Warm jumper or jacket
Scarf
Hat
Sunglasses
Swimwear
Petra Essentials
Supportive shoes
Small backpack
Water bottle
Sunscreen
Portable charger
Wadi Rum Essentials
Warm layers
Thermal clothing (especially winter)
Power bank
Final Jordan Travel Tips
Start Early
This is my number one recommendation. The best experiences happen when you beat the crowds.
Especially:
Petra
Wadi Rum
Jerash
Don't Underestimate Distances
Jordan is compact, but sightseeing takes time. A "short visit" to Petra can easily become a full-day adventure.
Build in Breathing Room
Don't fill every hour. Some of my favourite memories came from simply sitting and taking in the surroundings.
Respect Local Culture
Jordan is welcoming, but it is also culturally different from Australia.
Small gestures go a long way:
dress respectfully
greet locals
learn basic Arabic phrases
ask before photographing people
Frequently Asked Questions: 7-Day Jordan Itinerary
Is 7 days enough for Jordan?
Yes. A week is the perfect introduction for first-time visitors.
You can experience:
Amman
Jerash
Dead Sea
Petra
Wadi Rum
Aqaba
without feeling completely rushed.
Should I rent a car in Jordan?
For this itinerary, I would.
Having a car gives you flexibility and makes it much easier to stop at viewpoints and smaller attractions. If you're not comfortable driving overseas, private drivers and tours are also excellent options.
What is the best month to visit Jordan?
The best months are:
March
April
May
September
October
November
These offer the best balance of weather and crowds.
Is Jordan safe?
Yes. Jordan is one of the safest countries in the Middle East for travellers. Use normal travel precautions, stay aware of your surroundings and follow local advice.
Your Jordan Adventure Awaits
Jordan is one of those rare destinations where the reality is somehow better than the photos.
It is the feeling of standing beneath the Treasury after walking through the Siq… the silence of Wadi Rum before sunrise… the ridiculous joy of floating in the Dead Sea… the kindness of strangers sharing stories over tea.
A week in Jordan won't allow you to see everything, but it will give you memories that last forever. Take your time, stay curious, say yes to experiences, and allow Jordan to surprise you… because it will.
