Explore Jordan on a Budget: 7-Day Itinerary with Public Transport
Jordan is an incredible destination, full of diverse experiences that will leave you amazing. While many travellers tend to rent cars or sign up for organised tours, I’m here to tell you that exploring Jordan without a car is totally doable. Major cities and key attractions are easily accessible by public transport, though a little planning goes a long way to ensure everything runs smoothly.
In this itinerary, I’ll take you through the bus schedules, routes, costs, and what to do along the way. It’s designed for a week-long trip, but if you want to spend longer in certain spots, feel free to adjust. Discover my 7-day itinerary through Jordan using public transport, and get ready to explore the very best this amazing country has to offer!
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Getting Around Jordan by Public Transport
Getting around Jordan is easy and affordable, thanks to a variety of public transport options. Whether you're traveling between cities or exploring key tourist sites, here's what you need to know:
Jordan Express Tourist Transport (JETT): JETT is the main bus operator in Jordan, offering comfortable, air-conditioned buses connecting main cities and key tourist attractions. You can check schedules and book tickets online through their website, or purchase them directly at their offices.
Petra to Wadi Rum Bus Service: A smaller, independent company runs daily buses between Petra and Wadi Rum. While you can’t book in advance, you can easily arrange a seat through your hotel, which will provide the departure details (the bus offers pick-ups from select hotels in Wadi Musa).
Taxis: Taxis are a convenient option for getting around cities like Amman and Aqaba, particularly during the late hours. They’re also reasonably priced, making them a good choice for short trips or when you need flexibility.
7-Day Jordan Itinerary
Discover Jordan’s must-see highlights with this itinerary designed for travellers relying on public transport.
Day 1 • Arrive in Amman
Kick off your adventure in Amman, arriving at Queen Alia International Airport, about 45 minutes from the city centre.
Getting to the City:
Sariyah Airport Express Bus: Runs every 30 minutes from 6 AM to 6 PM, then hourly until 6 AM. Tickets cost 3.30 JD and can be purchased at the airport
Taxi: Fixed rate of 22.50 JD to most hotels in the city centre.
Unwind after your journey and settle in with a relaxing evening to adjust to the time zone.
Day 2 • Explore Amman
Spend the day exploring Amman’s vibrant mix of ancient history and modern charm. From ancient ruins to lively markets and trendy spots, there’s plenty to see, but the main highlights are easy to cover in a day.
Start your morning at The Citadel, a historic site perched on one of Amman’s central hills. It’s home to the Temple of Hercules, the Umayyad Palace, and the Jordan Archeological Museum, all offering incredible views and a glimpse into Jordan’s past. A taxi is the easiest way to reach the top.
In the afternoon, head to the impressive Roman Theatre, a 2,000 year old theatre that still hosts cultural events today. Afterwards, take a walk down Rainbow Street, known for its cafes, retail shops, and laid-back vibe. This is a great spot to grab a bite or sample some local treats. Wrap up your day at the Jordan Museum, where you can learn more about the country’s history, including displays of the famous Dead Sea Scrolls.
Amman’s compact size and affordable taxis make it easy to get around, so you can pack a lot into your day while still enjoying a relaxed pace.
Where To Stay in Amman: Carob Hostel ($) for affordable dorms and private rooms (7-minute taxi ride to Abdali). Nomads Hotel ($) for a modern hostel stay (10-minute taxi ride to Abdali). For more options, check out my Amman Hotel Guide.
Day 3 • Amman to Aqaba
Catch the 7 AM JETT bus from Abdali Station to Aqaba, arriving by noon. Tickets are only 10 JD, and the journey offers a comfortable way to travel south.
Once in Aqaba, make the most of your afternoon by diving into the city’s unique mix of relaxation and adventure. You can go on a boat trip to snorkel in the Red Sea, unwind on the sandy beaches, or explore local landmarks like the historic Aqaba Fortress. For food, you’ll find a great variety of options around Aqaba. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, don’t miss the delicious knafeh from Anabtwai Sweets—it’s a local favourite, and the perfect treat!
If you like the vibe of Aqaba, consider staying an extra night to enjoy a full day out on the water or relaxing at one of the many beach clubs or hotel pools. For more inspiration on activities, check out my Aqaba Travel Guide.
More to Explore:
Enjoy an evening Walking Tour through the historic souk and sample delicious street food along the way.
Where To Stay in Aqaba: Twins Boutique Hotel ($) for an affordable stay (5-minute taxi ride from the bus station). Lacosta Hotel ($$) is another comfortable option (6-minute walk from the bus station). For more options, check out my Aqaba Hotel Guide.
Day 4 • Wadi Rum Tour & Bedouin Camp
Start your day with the 8 AM JETT bus from Aqaba to Wadi Rum Visitor Centre, arriving around 9 AM. Tickets are 15 JD, but if you’re with two or more people, consider a taxi for 25 JD, which is more cost-effective.
When you arrive, head out to experience Wadi Rum with a guided desert tour. Marvel at the dramatic landscapes and iconic landmarks like Lawrence Spring, Khazali Canyon, and the famous rock bridges. For an unforgettable experience, make sure your tour includes watching the sunset from Um Sabatah, one of the desert’s most scenic spots.
After a full day of adventure, head to your desert camp to unwind. Enjoy a traditional Bedouin dinner and enjoy the serenity of the desert night. End the day stargazing under a sky full of stars—a highlight of any visit to Wadi Rum.
More to Explore:
Jebel Um Ad Dami: The highest peak in Jordan, offers stunning panoramic views of Wadi Rum and beyond into Saudi Arabia. The hike is a bit challenging but incredibly rewarding for that view at the top!
Jebel Al Hash: A fantastic ridge hike with sweeping views that stretch across Wadi Rum and beyond. Perfect for those looking to explore beyond the main sites.
Where To Stay in Wadi Rum: Wadi Rum Desert Eyes ($) offers desert tours and accommodation (the meeting point is Wadi Rum Rest House, but they can pick you up from the Visitor Centre).
For more inspiration, check out my guide to Two Days in Wadi Rum.
Day 5 • Explore Petra Archaeological Site
From Wadi Rum Rest House, take the 9 AM local bus to Wadi Musa (Petra), arriving around 11 AM. Tickets are 10 JD.
After arriving in Wadi Musa, check into your hotel and grab a quick meal before heading to the incredible Petra Archaeological Site. Start at the main entrance and walk through the Siq, a narrow canyon that opens dramatically to your first glimpse of the Treasury. Spend the afternoon exploring Petra’s highlights, including the Street of Facades, the Theatre, and the Royal Tombs.
If you’re up for hiking, the trek to the iconic Monastery is well worth it—but keep in mind that since you’ll be arriving around midday, you might not have time to complete the hike today. Consider saving it for Day 6. You can also opt for a 4x4 ride to get you close to the back door entrance. Keep in mind that Petra is a huge site, so comfortable walking shoes and plenty of water are essential.
In the evening, wind down at the Cave Bar, located near the entrance, or consider experiencing Petra By Night, a light show held every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday.
Where To Stay in Wadi Musa: Nomads Hotel Petra ($) modern and budget-friendly (5-minute taxi ride from the bus station). Petra Plaza Hotel ($$) offers comfort and convenience (5-minute taxi ride from the bus station).
For more tips and details, check out The Ultimate Petra Travel Guide.
Day 6 • Little Petra & Travel to Amman
Start your morning with a visit to Little Petra, a smaller archaeological site just a short distance from Petra. This quieter spot offers a chance to explore the ruins without the crowds. Free shuttle buses from the Petra Visitor Centre make this an easy side trip.
If you have a two-day Petra ticket, you can also take the Back Door Monastery Hike from here, which offers beautiful views. You can either do the full hike or take a 4x4 to get closer to the Monastery Trail (5 JD per person). Alternatively, you can use your ticket to visit Petra again from the main entrance.
In the afternoon, catch the 5 PM bus from Petra to Amman, arriving around 8:30 PM. Tickets costs 10 JD.
Where To Stay in Amman: Carob Hostel ($) for affordable dorms and private rooms (7-minute taxi ride to Abdali). Nomads Hotel ($) for a modern hostel stay (10-minute taxi ride to Abdali). Nu Fifty Two ($$) for a city apartment at an affordable price (12-minute taxi ride to Abdali ).
Day 7 • Day Trip from Amman
There’s plenty to do in Amman, but why not take a day trip to explore even more of Jordan’s incredible sights? For history lovers, a visit to the Jerash Archaeological Site is a must. Known as one of the best-preserved Roman ruins outside of Italy, it’s easily accessible by public transport. Catch a bus from Tabarbour bus station, and in about an hour, you’ll arrive at this incredible site. Tickets cost around 1-2 JD. If you’re interested in seeing more, consider joining this organised day tour that includes Ajloun Castle and Umm Qais.
Alternatively, for a more relaxing day, head to the Dead Sea. You can catch the 8:30 AM JETT bus or take a taxi to a public beach or resort for day use (fees apply). The drive takes about an hour, and bus tickets are 10 JD. A taxi ride typically costs between 25 and 35 JD each way. Given the high cost of hotels on the Dead Sea, a day trip is an affordable way to experience the famous saltwater lake.
After your day of exploration or relaxation, you can either return to Amman for the night or head straight to the airport for your flight home.
Cost of Travelling in Jordan
The currency in Jordan is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD), which is pegged to the US Dollar.
1 JOD = 1.41 USD | 1.30 EUR | 1.07 GBP | 5.18 AED | 2.09 AUD | 2.28 NZD
Visa & The Jordan Pass: You can get a tourist entry visa on arrival at the airport and most land borders for 40 JD (for most passport holders). If arriving in Aqaba, your visa is free, thanks to the special economic zone in this area (ASEZA).
The Jordan Pass combines both your visa costs and entry to major attractions like Petra and Wadi Rum. You must purchase the Jordan Pass before you arrive in Jordan and stay for at least three nights (4 days). The Jordan Pass has three tiers based on how long you want to visit Petra: Jordan Wanderer Pass (1-day entry) costs 70 JD. Jordan Explorer Pass (2-day entry) costs 75 JD. Jordan Expert Pass (3+ days) costs 80 JD. You can purchase the Jordan Pass online at www.jordanpass.jo.
Accommodation: Options range from affordable guest houses (20-60 JD per night) to mid-range hotels (60-120 JD) and luxury accommodations (over 120 JD). Book in advance, especially during the high season in Petra and the Dead Sea.
Transportation: Bus transport between towns: 10-15 JD per ticket. City taxis: 5-25 JD. Rental cars: Around 25 JD per day for a standard car.
Food and Drink: Meal prices vary; an average meal costs around 4-15 JD per person for dining out (2-5 JD per sandwich, 1-2 JD per coffee/tea/soft drink). Sit-down restaurants are pricier than fast food and street vendors.
Sightseeing & Activities: The Jordan Pass covers entry to the main attractions. The entrance for Petra By Night is not covered by the Jordan Pass and costs 17 JD per person. Wadi Rum desert tours vary in price based on duration, activities, and private/shared options.
Tips: Not mandatory but appreciated, typically 5-10%.
To keep travel costs in Jordan manageable, I recommend focusing on two or three must-do experiences and fully immersing yourself in them, rather than trying to do everything. With expenses for accommodation, transport, the Jordan Pass, and activities quickly adding up, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. By prioritising key highlights, you’ll create a memorable trip that won’t break the bank.
