Jordan in Seven Days: Expert-Guided Itinerary for a Perfect Week
Jordan in Seven Days: Expert-Guided Itinerary for a Perfect Week
Is Jordan on your bucket list?
If so, follow in the footsteps of our Travel Specialist, Susanne, who has just returned from an enriching week in this breathtaking Middle Eastern gem. From floating in the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea to stargazing in a remote Wadi Rum desert camp, Susanne's first-hand experience offers the perfect balance of cultural immersion, historical exploration, and desert adventure.
This seven-day Jordan itinerary is based entirely on her personal journey - driven by a private guide, powered by a flexible route, and packed with highlights like the ancient city of Petra (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Roman Theatre in downtown Amman, and unforgettable moments like sipping tea with Bedouins beneath the stars.
Whether you're looking to explore Jordan in a single week or are planning a longer trip with added nights at a Dead Sea resort or a traditional Wadi Rum village, this article captures all the sights in one seamless and richly layered, one-week Jordan itinerary.
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Susanne Muskita
Product & Travel Specialist
“It was incredible to return to the Middle East and feel that warm Jordanian hospitality again - there’s truly nothing like it. From floating in the Dead Sea to standing in awe before the Monastery in Petra, every moment felt both humbling and unforgettable."
Day 1: Monday 31 March
- Flying to Amman
- Arrival in Amman
- House Boutique Hotel
Flying to Amman
Flying with Royal Jordanian
I was pleased to discover that Royal Jordanian now offers three convenient weekly flights from Manchester - on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays - which made planning my journey a lot easier. The flight departs from Terminal 3, and I found the online check-in process straightforward, which is always a relief when travelling.
Onboard, the crew were friendly and attentive, and I enjoyed a well-prepared meal that catered nicely to my vegetarian preference - it's clear the airline is making strides in offering more thoughtful options. While there was a lively atmosphere around me with families travelling for Eid, it added to the sense of excitement as we all headed towards the beautiful and historic landscapes of Jordan. Despite a slight delay, I appreciated having that time to relax and mentally prepare for the adventures ahead.
Arrival
View over Amman and the ancient Roman Theatre
As we touched down, we were warmly greeted by Nur from Discovery Circle Tours, who kindly guided us through the immigration process. DCT ensures a smooth welcome with a dedicated team - Nur, Amer, and Mohammed - rotating to meet guests as they arrive, which really adds a personal touch.
Compared to neighbouring Israel, I found the immigration experience here refreshingly straightforward. After a quick passport check, Nur took care of getting our second stamp while we waited for our luggage, making the whole process seamless.
Queen Alia International Airport itself is impressive - completely transformed in 2013 into a spacious, modern space inspired by Bedouin architecture, featuring over 100 distinctive concrete domes that celebrate Jordan’s heritage.
Once outside, Nur contacted our driver and escort, Wasfi, who took us on a smooth 35-minute drive to our hotel. Thankfully, since most clients arrive late evening - between 10:30pm and midnight - the traffic was light, making the journey relaxing. Plus, all the cars come equipped with Wi-Fi, so there’s no escaping connectivity even on the road!
House Boutique Hotel
Cosy suite in House Boutique Hotel
Our base in Amman was the charming House Boutique Hotel, where Anton from client services gave us a warm welcome. We quickly arranged our pick-up time with Wasfi for the next morning, and Anton personally escorted us to our room, taking extra care to make sure we were settled and letting us know he’d be nearby in the lobby should we have any questions.
Situated near Circle 2 and adjacent to the Turkish Embassy, the hotel is a beautiful, modern property with 92 suites spread over seven floors, opened in 2014. Our fifth-floor suite was wonderfully comfortable, featuring a kitchen, a sofa, and a choice of king-size or twin beds, with spectacular views to enjoy. Breakfast each morning in the ground floor dining room was a highlight - varied, plentiful, and easily the best meal of the trip to start the day right.
Day 2: Tuesday 1 April
- Amman sightseeing
- Dinner with a local family
- Savouring local cuisine
Exploring Amman
Amman Citadel
After breakfast, we stepped outside to find Wasfi, our driver and guide, already waiting for us - cigarette in hand.
Since it was Eid, the roads were unusually quiet in the morning, creating a peaceful start to the day. As the afternoon approached, the city became more animated, with families heading out to visit loved ones.
Our first destination was the ancient Amman Citadel, perched on one of Amman’s highest hills. Wasfi handled the tickets for us, and we had about an hour to explore. While guides are available, we opted to wander freely, taking in the incredible panoramic views over the city and the Roman Amphitheatre. The site is well signposted with informative boards, which made for a fulfilling self-guided experience.
From there, we explored the Old Town. While many shops were closed due to the holiday, there was still a vibrant charm to the area. I picked up some local spices - always one of my favourite travel souvenirs. For lunch, we stopped at the legendary Hashem Restaurant, a beloved local institution famous for serving what many consider the best falafel in Jordan. The flavours were incredible - crispy, warm, and freshly prepared.
As a sweet finale, Wasfi introduced us to knafeh, a traditional Levantine dessert. It was rich and delicious - though I still think the version from Nablus (in Palestine) is hard to beat! But it was a treat nonetheless and a lovely insight into the culinary culture here.
Dining with a local family
Traditional Jordan meal with a local family
After a short break back at the hotel, we set off again for one of the most memorable moments of the trip - dinner with a local family. Manal, her husband, and daughter welcomed us warmly into their apartment, where they regularly host both guests and international students. It was an incredible opportunity to experience Jordanian hospitality firsthand.
Wasfi joined us as well, and the evening felt more like a family gathering than a formal dinner. We began with Turkish coffee and biscuits, followed by a homemade meal that was both delicious and heartwarming. While their son didn’t join us, we learned that both of their children have full-time jobs and still live at home, which is quite typical here. We chatted about everything from travel (they’ve been to Spain, Italy, and the US) to everyday life in Amman.
We ended the evening with tea and sugared almonds, and I felt genuinely touched by the generosity and openness of our hosts. It was a special experience that I’d recommend to anyone wanting to go beyond the usual tourist trail.
Day 3: Wednesday 2 April
- Jerash
- Ajloun Castle
- Salt
Discovering Jordan's northern hills: Jerash, Ajloun Castle and Salt
Ancient Roman city remains in Jerash
After breakfast, Wasfi picked us up at 9:00am for a day of exploring the northern hills of Jordan. With little traffic on the roads, we reached Jerash in just under an hour. The drive itself offered scenic glimpses of the countryside, with rolling hills and olive groves stretching into the distance.
We parked near the old visitor centre and walked over to the newly built one, where Wasfi kindly took care of the entrance tickets and organised a local guide for us. Our guide, Nader, was fantastic - his fluent English and deep historical knowledge brought the ancient Roman city to life. After an informative hour with him, we had time to explore on our own. I was especially struck by the grandeur of the Colonnaded Street, the expansive Forum, and the beautifully preserved Temple of Artemis.
From Jerash, we made a spontaneous change to our itinerary. Instead of returning to Amman to visit the Jordan Museum, we drove to Ajloun Castle - a site I’d heard about from clients but hadn’t yet seen myself. It turned out to be a worthwhile detour. Perched high above the surrounding valleys, the castle offers sweeping views and a fascinating glimpse into Jordan’s medieval history.
Our final stop of the day was Salt, a town utterly charming, with its well-preserved Ottoman architecture and lively, lived-in feel. It felt like walking through a living museum, and I’m already planning to include it in future cultural tours.
Dinner & conversations on Rainbow Street
Rainbow Street at night
At 7:00pm, we headed to Sufra, a lovely restaurant on Rainbow Street, to meet with Jack (DCT’s Managing Director) and Mohammad Al-Dabbas (Incoming Manager). It was great to reconnect with Jack, whom I’d last seen at WTM, and to finally meet Mohammad - despite him looking a little tired from all the Eid celebrations and family visits! Over a delicious Jordanian dinner, we discussed itinerary updates, new opportunities in Saudi Arabia, and exchanged stories from the road.
Day 4: Thursday 3 April
- Madaba
- Mt Nebo
- Petra
Madaba and Mt Nebo
Mt Nebo, Jordan
We left Amman at 09:00 and headed straight to Madaba for a scheduled hotel inspection at 10:00. Afterwards, we made our way to Mount Nebo, a significant pilgrimage site traditionally believed to be where Moses saw the Promised Land. The road leading up the mountain is now beautifully paved - much different from the steep, narrow track I remember from 30 years ago.
Unfortunately, the haze meant we couldn’t glimpse the Golden Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem this time, but the visit was still worthwhile. The small museum on-site displays some fascinating mosaics and archaeological artefacts.
On the way back into Madaba, we stopped at a local artisan shop for a mosaic demonstration. It’s fascinating to watch the process - from stone-cutting to the final design. Alongside the mosaics, you’ll also find rugs, painted ostrich eggs, and jewellery on offer.
St George’s Church and Lunch in Madaba
Church of St George
Before leaving town, we visited the Church of St George, home to the famous Madaba Map - a 6th-century mosaic depicting the Holy Land. It’s an incredible piece of history, though due to ongoing renovations, our visit was brief.
We then headed to Food Basket Restaurant, a cosy and welcoming spot popular with both locals and visitors. The owners - a husband-and-wife team - make a real effort to personally greet their guests. The wife (whose name I’ll get!) even served the maqlouba herself - a delicious vegetarian version of Jordan’s national dish, made with rice, vegetables, and traditionally chicken. Before that, we enjoyed a mezze spread of five different dishes. The flavours were fresh and authentic, and we heard that they’re about to publish their first cookbook. I’ve decided that from now on, all our clients will have lunch here and receive a copy of the book - it’s a wonderful keepsake.
Arrival in Petra: Petra Moon Hotel
Rooftop pool at Petra Moon Hotel
We left Madaba at 15:00pm and made our way south along the Desert Highway, with a quick photo stop at Shobak Castle. We reached Petra around 18:00pm.
We stayed at Petra Moon Hotel, a comfortable 3–4 star option in Wadi Musa, just a short walk from the Petra Visitor Centre. Moving forward, I’ll recommend staying near the entrance unless guests insist on something more remote like the Hyatt Zaman in Taybeh. While the Hyatt is beautiful and offers incredible views, it’s not ideal for short stays due to the need for taxis every time you want to visit the site.
My top pick would still be the Petra Guesthouse, located right at the gate and home to the Cave Bar - reputedly the oldest bar in the world, set in a 2,000-year-old Nabatean tomb. You can’t get more atmospheric than that.
Petra by Night
Petra by Night, lit by candles
After dinner at the hotel, Wasfi returned to take us to the Visitor Centre. He purchased our tickets for Petra by Night, and the gates opened at 20:30pm. The candlelit walk through the narrow Siq to the Treasury is truly special - about 15 minutes to the Siq entrance, then another 20 through it.
I’ll admit I was a little sceptical at first, worried it might feel too 'touristy' - but it turned out to be magical. The 1,500 candles lighting the Treasury create an ethereal glow, enhanced by a subtle light show. Bedouins shared stories and played live traditional music. The experience brought the site to life in a completely new way.
We retraced our steps afterwards - though for those too tired, electric golf carts are available for the journey back.
Day 5: Friday 4 April
- High place of sacrifice
- Valley floor & the Monastery
- Petra kitchen experience
Visiting Petra – A Full Day of Exploration
We started early - out the door and walking by 07:00am - and less than 12 hours later, we were back at the Treasury again, having experienced Petra from every angle.
Siq & High Place of Sacrifice
Siq, Petra
One of the first things I noticed was the newly laid surface of the Siq. It’s no longer sandy but now paved in a way that blends naturally with the surrounding rock. This change allows electric golf carts (seating up to six people) to transport visitors from the visitor centre to the Treasury - a great option for those who might struggle with the walk. Horses are no longer allowed through the Siq, although a short horse ride from the visitor centre to its entrance is still included in the ticket. Most people, though, choose to walk.
Our first stop was the High Place of Sacrifice, and I recommend doing this early in the day while the trail is still shaded. From the top, you’re treated to a bird’s-eye view of the site - breathtaking and well worth the climb. Instead of descending the same way, we took a more remote path through another wadi, discovering tombs and rock carvings most visitors miss. It was peaceful and atmospheric - a glimpse of Petra’s hidden side.
Valley Floor and Climb to the Monastery
Valley Floor, Petra
We continued down to the valley floor, passing by landmarks such as the Pharaun Column, Temenos, Qasr al-Bint, and the Great Altar. Even the public restrooms along the way were surprisingly spotless worth noting when spending a full day on foot!
From there, we began the ascent to the Monastery - about 800 rock-cut steps, taking around 30 minutes (or more, depending on your pace and stops). I suggest tackling this in the afternoon, when most of the trail is shaded and the light is perfect for photographs.
As you climb, you’ll find shade, souvenir stalls, and cheerful local Bedouins offering tea, crafts, and the occasional donkey ride. It’s a social trail as much as a physical one.
The Monastery
Monastery, Petra
Standing before the Monastery, I was reminded just how small we really are - this monument is even larger than the Treasury. Nearby, there’s a tea shop built into a cave with simple sandwiches and drinks. The seating looks straight onto the Monastery, so you can sit back, rest, and take it all in. Years ago, I climbed to the top of the structure itself, but that path has since been closed off for safety reasons.
The descent, while easier, can still be tricky due to sandy steps, so we took it slow and then stopped at the Nabatean Restaurant. This used to be a humble Bedouin tent where I’d bring groups years ago - today, it’s a cosy eatery serving simple but satisfying local dishes. I even ran into the owner, Haroun, who somehow still remembered me!
Petra Kitchen Experience
Susanne and other travellers at the Petra cooking experience
We headed back along the Street of Facades and past the Roman Theatre, completely carved from rock, before exiting through the Siq to our hotel.
In the evening, we walked to Petra Kitchen, where Chef Rehan led a hands-on cooking class. There were just six of us, and each participant got an apron, a chef’s hat, and a knife. The menu, neatly written on a whiteboard, included soup, cold and hot mezze, and a traditional main course.
There was a lot of chopping, marinating, and “Yes, Chef!” moments. We ended the night by tasting our own creations - an incredibly fun and interactive way to wrap up a day steeped in Petra’s history and hospitality. At the end, we were handed printed recipes to recreate the magic at home.
Day 6: Saturday 5 April
- Driving the Desert Highway
- Wadi Rum desert adventures
- Wadi Rum UFO Luxotel
'I Love Petra' sign
We began our day with two hotel inspections before leaving Petra. As we climbed out of Wadi Musa, we made a quick photo stop at the "I Love Petra" sign. The view was slightly hazy, but we could just make out the golden Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem on the distant horizon - a surreal moment that reminded us how close the region’s ancient and modern stories lie side by side.
Journey into Wadi Rum: Desert Highway
Desert of Wadi Rum
From there, we joined the Desert Highway, a dramatic and scenic route that runs south toward Aqaba. After about two hours, we turned off for Wadi Rum, and the landscape immediately shifted. The sand deepened to a rich orange-red, and the scenery became so otherworldly it felt like we’d landed on Mars.
We paused briefly at the Wadi Rum Railway Station to photograph the historic Hejaz Railway train, famously featured in Lawrence of Arabia. Then, a stop at the visitor centre gave us time to explore the small but informative museum and admire the dramatic Seven Pillars of Wisdom - towering rock formations named after T.E. Lawrence’s book.
Wadi Rum: Desert adventure by jeep tour
Wadi Rum: Desert Jeep Tour
We climbed aboard an open-topped jeep and ventured deep into the desert. Our Bedouin driver navigated confidently across the unmarked terrain - just shifting sand and fading tracks. If you’re wearing contact lenses, be warned: the wind and dust can be challenging, so a buff or scarf to cover your face is a smart idea.
We visited a couple of remote sites before looping back via Lawrence’s Spring, a spot that holds a special place in my memory. It’s where I used to camp with my groups years ago - before the desert became home to over 200 camps of varying standards.
After a few desert camp inspections, we were dropped off at the Luxotel office in the small village of Diseh. From there, another jeep took us even deeper into the desert to our camp for the night - secluded, peaceful, and utterly surreal. As we approached, the Wadi Rum camp looked like a Martian outpost, nestled between the red sand dunes and rocky cliffs.
Wadi Rum: Stargazing experience
Wadi Rum: Stargazing experience
After dinner, once the sky turned inky black and the stars emerged in full force, we were picked up again by a Bedouin guide and driven to Rum Sky Adventures. Here, a team had set up computerised telescopes and guided us through the stars, planets, and constellations visible overhead. The clarity of the night sky in Wadi Rum is truly exceptional - no light pollution, just endless galaxies.
Where We Stayed: Wadi Rum UFO Luxotel
Wadi Rum UFO Luxotel
Our accommodation for the night was the futuristic Wadi Rum UFO Luxotel, where we stayed in a bubble tent - complete with air conditioning and Wi-Fi, and a private veranda with a hammock. The tent was surprisingly spacious, featuring a large bed, a seating area, and enormous panoramic windows that made you feel as if you were sleeping directly under the stars.
Some of the bubble suites even had transparent roofs, allowing guests to stargaze from the comfort of their beds - an unforgettable way to end the day.
- Jordan is packed with incredible adventures for you to embark on. If you're eager to find out more, discover five amazing ways to find adventure in Jordan.
Day 7: Sunday 6 April
- Sunrise over the desert
- The Long Road North & the Dead Sea
- Dead Sea Resort & Spa
Wadi Rum desert and adventures
Sunrise over the Wadi Rum UFO Luxotel
We woke early in Wadi Rum to catch the sunrise over the desert, and the view did not disappoint. In the soft morning light, we spotted a hot air balloon gliding silently overhead - what a magical way to see this Martian-like landscape from above. Some guests were already riding camels or heading to distant viewpoints to greet the new day. The desert awakens quickly, and so does the heat - the temperature begins to rise as soon as the sun crests the rocks.
After breakfast, we checked out and were met by another Bedouin guide, Mohammed, who took us on an exhilarating two-hour 4x4 adventure through his backyard - the expansive desert around Diseh, where he grew up. His deep knowledge of the land led us to extraordinary spots: Mushroom Rock, the rock formation known as "The Titanic" and the ancient petroglyphs, some believed to be over 12,000 years old!
The scenery was breathtaking, constantly shifting from wide open sands to narrow canyons, always framed by massive rust-coloured cliffs. We could have spent hours more exploring - but the Dead Sea was calling.
The Long Road North
Desert landscapes of Wadi Rum
We reunited with Wasfi at the Luxotel office, and instead of taking the more direct route to the Dead Sea, he took us on a scenic journey that wound through Aqaba and then followed the entire length of the Dead Sea from south to north. On our left was Jordan; across the water to the west, Israel.
Seeing roads and buildings on the other side - so close yet worlds apart - was a powerful reminder of how deeply the region is shaped by conflict. Even from this peaceful vantage point, you could feel the weight of it. War in a neighbouring country causes not just destruction, but despair, disconnection, and helplessness.
Arrival at the Dead Sea
Dead Sea, Jordan
By the time we arrived at our final stop, I still had two hotel inspections to complete - though I was already picturing myself in the water. Eventually, I did get that moment of stillness: floating effortlessly in the Dead Sea, letting the week settle into my bones.
In hindsight, we should have stayed here at least two nights. After days of travel, discovery, and walking, this place offered the perfect contrast: rest, stillness, and reflection.
Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa
Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa
Our final night was spent at the Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa, a luxurious beachfront resort perched on the northern edge of the sea. With 285 ensuite rooms, each with a balcony or terrace, it feels more like a laid-back seaside escape than a spa retreat - and that’s part of its charm. I always book sea view rooms for clients here, and after seeing the view from our balcony, I remembered why.
Though more affordable than the nearby Mövenpick or Kempinski, the Hilton still delivers top-tier comfort. It has a private beach and direct access to the sea, which is essential if you want to float under the Wadi Rum sunset or take a morning dip.
We had dinner at Spectrum, one of the hotel’s seven restaurants, where a varied international buffet was served using locally sourced produce from the Jordan Valley - fittingly nicknamed the food basket of the Middle East.
Day 8: Monday 7 April
- Goodbyes & gratitude
- Flying home
- A promise to return
Floating in the Dead Sea
Wasfi was ready and waiting at 06:30 for our drive to Amman airport—about 50 minutes from the Dead Sea. Since we’d miss breakfast, the hotel thoughtfully prepared a takeaway box. As we left, the sun rose behind the mountains in soft hues of pink and orange. It was a beautiful farewell… though we couldn’t help but wish for just one more slow morning by the pool or another float in the Dead Sea. Next time.
Saying goodbye to Wasfi was harder than expected. Over the week, he became more than a driver—he was our fixer, guide, storyteller, and friend. He proudly showed us a photo of himself with Hollywood actress Michelle Monaghan, who he drove during a film shoot in Jordan a few years ago. His enthusiasm, reliability, and signature "OMG!" became running themes of our journey. We arrived as clients; we left with a friend.
Our flight back to the UK
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View of Amman City
At Queen Alia International Airport, we were met by Mohammed, who swiftly checked us in at the Royal Jordanian Airlines business desk and even secured us an extra seat at no cost.
Our binoculars triggered a bag check - something we always advise clients about - but the officer was kind and apologetic. Inside the terminal, we had time for a quiet coffee before boarding. The flight wasn’t full, and though there was no built-in entertainment, the Sky Connect app offered streaming options.
As we took off, I reflected on a packed yet perfect week. Jordan’s rich landscapes, flavours, and stories left a lasting impression. Returning to the Middle East felt like coming home - its hospitality, or Karam, unmatched. Even modern developments felt thoughtful, honouring the past while embracing a sustainable, respectful future.
I left feeling full - in spirit, in heart, and with a renewed appreciation for this remarkable country. Until next time.
Explore Jordan with Regent
Looking to visit Jordan and experience its incredible natural beauty and striking culture-rich history first-hand? From Wadi Rum tours to road trips through the ancient city centre and stays traditional Bedouin camps, take your Jordan trip to the next level with our top Jordan escapes:
- Jordan On the Road Fly-Drive
- Petra Weekender
- Jordan Discovery Group Tour
- Classic Jordan
- Jordan Eco Adventure
Have you been inspired by Susanne's week in Jordan?
From floating in the Dead Sea - the lowest point at sea level - to exploring the ancient archaeological site of Petra early by candlelight, and stargazing under absolutely gorgeous skies in the Wadi Rum desert, we can craft the perfect 7-day Jordan itinerary that perfectly captures the essence of a one week itinerary in Jordan. Whether you’re looking for guided Jordan tours, a luxury holiday to Jordan with lovely facilities, or a fully tailor-made Jordan tour including visits to the Jordan Pass attractions, we’re here to help create your perfect escape.
Browse our range of Jordan holidays or speak to one of our Travel Specialists to start planning your holiday to this beautiful Middle East destination today.