Best Places in Jordan's Coastal Towns and Villages
There are several amazing towns and villages around the Jordanian coast, each with its unique charm. These coastal communities have a relaxed feel, with narrow alleys lined with shops and cafes. If you’re looking for things to do beyond hiking, camel riding, or other more adventurous activities, these coastal towns offer quieter activities that are suitable for families and couples alike. Here are our favorite places to explore in Jordan’s coastal towns and villages.
Aqaba
Aqaba is the perfect place to kick off your Jordan trip. The town lies on the Red Sea and is surrounded by desert. This makes Aqaba a great place to relax and get in touch with your inner artist or traveler. This town is known for its rich history and cultural heritage, as well as its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can explore the ancient city of Ayla, which dates back to the 6th century BC or visit the Aqaba Fort, which dates back to the 15th century.
Petra
Petra is the most famous town in Jordan and perhaps the world. It is a must-see place in Jordan with its incredible rock-cut architecture, ancient temples, and swirling red water. Soak up the sights of Petra from the desert landscape, or get up close to the ancient monuments with a guidebook in hand. Photographers will be mesmerized by the shifting hues of the desert and the ancient rock formations. Once you’ve soaked up all the sights of Petra, head to Wadi Musa for swimming in the blue grotto pools. There’s also a swing bridge that takes you to an overlook point with a great view of Petra. Once you’ve seen Petra, head to Petra’s southern desert for a day trip. There are numerous Bedouin camps to visit, or a visit to Wadi Rum could be rewarding.
Wadi Rum
Wadi Rum is one of the most famous places in Jordan. It is a desert oasis that is home to some of Jordan’s most famous archaeological sites. Wadi Rum is famous for its rock formations, dunes, and ancient history. You can enjoy sunset views of the desert while you relax in the campsites. There are several ways to explore Wadi Rum. The easiest is to hire a driver and a 4x4. You can also visit Wadi Rum by jeep tour, or if you’d prefer a more leisurely experience, you can visit by camel. Wadi Rum is also a great place to go hiking. The desert landscape is dotted with ancient ruins, and you can hike to different ruins and explore the landscape.
Ajloun
Ajloun is a beautiful town on Jordan’s north coast. The town features plenty of pine trees and has a relaxed feel that is perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of the big cities. Ajloun is also well known for its rock-hewn churches and monastery. Inside the churches, you can find some of the oldest frescoes in Jordan. Next, explore Ajloun’s beaches and fishing villages. Ajloun’s wind-laid cobblestone streets and traditional wooden houses are a nice contrast to the bustling cities nearby.
Zarqa – The Queen of the Jordan Valley
Zarqa is one of Jordan’s most well-known and visited towns. The town is located in the Jordan Valley, which is one of Jordan’s most fertile regions. If you’re visiting Jordan during the autumn or winter, visit Zarqa to explore its winter sports. Several nearby hills have skiing and snowboarding facilities. The Jordan Valley is a great place to visit in Jordan, and Zarqa is the perfect place to start. You can explore the town and visit nearby archaeological sites, or take a tour of the area’s wineries. Visit Petra or Aqaba on your way out of Jordan to break up your trip. You can also visit Petra and Aqaba on a day trip.
Conclusion
The coast of Jordan is one of the most beautiful places you’ll find in the Middle East. It’s a great place to enjoy the outdoors and visit some of the area’s most well-known sites. While the coastal towns and villages of Jordan are beautiful in their own right, some of the most intriguing sights are found far from the coast. If you’re looking for an immersive and cultural experience, look no further than Wadi Rum and Petra. If you’d rather relax and take in the beauty of nature, head to the Jordan Valley and visit Wadi Rum. The best part about all of these places is that they are all easily accessible by plane, and you can explore them with a proper itinerary.
