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Stunning aerial photograph of Aqaba, Jordan, showcasing the lagoon, city, and distant mountains.

Things to Do in Aqaba, Jordan

Photo made by Samir Smier on Pexels.com

When to visit

MODERATEJan17°5d rain
MODERATEFeb18°4d rain
MODERATEMar22°2d rainBEST
BUSYApr27°1d rainBEST
BUSYMay32°0d rainBEST
MODERATEJun37°0d rain
MODERATEJul39°0d rain
MODERATEAug39°0d rain
MODERATESep35°0d rainBEST
MODERATEOct30°1d rainBEST
MODERATENov24°2d rainBEST
MODERATEDec19°4d rain

Most popular attractions in Aqaba, Jordan

Among the top things to do in Aqaba, Jordan, are visiting Aqaba Fort, a historic site dating back to the 16th century, exploring the amazing Aqaba Marine Park with its coral reefs, and enjoying the views from the towering Aqaba Flagpole, one of the tallest in the world. The Red Sea Beach is perfect for relaxing or snorkeling.

Aqaba Fort

1. Aqaba Fort

4.4 (1,727)
CastleHistorical PlacePoint of InterestEstablishment

Admire the mighty stone walls and discover the ancient water supply system. Experience a magical night full of lights and sounds that will transport you to the past.

2. Aqaba Marine Park

4.3 (660)
Tourist AttractionParkPoint of InterestEstablishment

Great place for snorkeling and discovering colorful coral reefs. Experience fascinating underwater life and crystal clear water.

Underwater Observatory Marine Park

3. Underwater Observatory Marine Park

4.5 (17,323)
AquariumPoint of InterestEstablishment
Closed Sun

Explore vibrant marine life up close without diving. Walk through an underwater tunnel and see colorful fish and coral reefs in their natural habitat.

Walking tours in Aqaba, Jordan

Aqaba Flagpole

4. Aqaba Flagpole

4.5 (640)
LandmarkPoint of InterestEstablishment

Enjoy the view of the tallest flagpole in the world. Experience a giant flag waving in the wind and beautiful night illumination.

Aqaba Archaeological Museum

5. Aqaba Archaeological Museum

4.1 (312)
History MuseumTourist AttractionMuseumPoint of InterestEstablishment
Closed Fri

View fascinating Roman inscriptions and ancient artifacts. Walk through time from the Roman to the Islamic era in unique exhibits.

King Hussein Bin Talal Mosque

6. King Hussein Bin Talal Mosque

4.7 (404)
MosquePlace of WorshipAssociation Or OrganizationPoint of InterestEstablishment

Grand prayer hall with a capacity of 3,000 people and a view of the Red Sea. Experience peace and architectural beauty in one of the largest mosques by the sea.

Tours & tickets in Aqaba, Jordan

Where to Stay in Aqaba, Jordan

Selected by City Buddy based on guest reviews and proximity to top attractions

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Opening days in Aqaba, Jordan

Which of the top sights close on which day of the week — the classic trip-ruiner, checked for you.

Friday: 1 of 6 top sights closed — plan museums for another day.

Closed on Friday · 1 closed, 5 open

See what's open each day in Aqaba →

Opening days from Google Maps (checked 2026-05-06). Public holidays, strikes and seasonal hours can differ — check the official website before you go.

Traditional Sweet Dishes

Knafeh

Knafeh

Knafeh is a beloved Middle Eastern dessert made with thin noodle-like pastry, soaked in sweet syrup and layered with cheese or cream. It is especially popular during Ramadan in Aqaba and is known for its vibrant orange color.

Basbousa

Basbousa

Basbousa is a semolina cake soaked in orange blossom or rose water syrup, traditionally enjoyed in Aqaba as a sweet treat during celebrations and family gatherings.

Qatayef

Qatayef

Qatayef are stuffed pancakes filled with nuts or sweet cheese, commonly served during Ramadan in Aqaba, symbolizing hospitality and festive joy.

Traditional Savory Dishes

Sayadiyah

Sayadiyah

Sayadiyah is a traditional fish and rice dish seasoned with spices and caramelized onions, reflecting Aqaba's coastal culinary heritage.

Mansaf

Mansaf

Mansaf, the national dish of Jordan, is a savory platter of lamb cooked in fermented dried yogurt sauce served with rice or bulgur, and is a must-try in Aqaba.

Makloubeh

Makloubeh

Makloubeh is an iconic layered rice dish with fried vegetables, meat, and spices that is flipped upside down before serving, creating a dramatic presentation popular in Aqaba.

Traditional Beverages

Jallab

Jallab

Jallab is a sweet drink made from grape molasses, rose water, and dates, traditionally served in Aqaba to refresh and energize during hot weather.

Qamar al-Din

Qamar al-Din

Qamar al-Din is a thick apricot juice drink enjoyed especially during Ramadan for its sweet, tangy flavor and high energy content.

Mint Lemonade

Mint Lemonade

Mint lemonade is a refreshing and widely loved drink in Aqaba, combining fresh lemon juice with fragrant mint leaves for a perfect balance of tart and cool flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions about Aqaba, Jordan

Is Aqaba, Jordan a safe place to visit?
Aqaba is generally considered a safe place for tourists with a low crime rate. The incidence of violent crime is rare, but it is always important to follow basic safety measures such as keeping an eye on your personal belongings.
How many days to spend in Aqaba, Jordan?
It is recommended to spend 3 to 4 days in Aqaba so you can visit the beaches, dive in the Red Sea, and enjoy the local culture and cuisine without rushing.
When is the best time to visit Aqaba, Jordan?
The best time to visit Aqaba is from March to May and September to November, when temperatures are mild and pleasant, ranging from 20-30°C, ideal for beach activities and outdoor trips.
Is Aqaba an expensive place to visit?
Costs in Aqaba are reasonable compared to Central European tourist destinations. Accommodation ranges from 20 to 100 euros per night depending on the standard, and a meal at a restaurant costs approximately 5 to 15 euros per person.
How to get around in Aqaba, Jordan?
In Aqaba, it is best to use taxis, which are available and relatively cheap, or rent a car for more freedom. The city is not large, so walking is also an option for shorter distances.

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Most popular day trips

Wadi Rum

60 km 1h by car

Stunning desert landscapes with rock formations and Bedouin camps.

Petra

125 km 2h by car

Ancient Nabatean city famous for its rock-cut architecture.

Dead Sea

120 km 2h by car

Lowest point on Earth with unique salty water for floating experiences.

Getting there

Use taxi or shuttle from Aqaba airport to city center; it takes about 15 minutes.

Useful information for Aqaba, Jordan

Shopping locationsAyla Oasis, City Mall, SOHO Square
Nightlife locationsSOHO Square
Popular casual restaurantsAl-Shami Restaurant, Rakwet Kanaan
Popular fancy restaurantsAli Baba Restaurant, Fish Fish Restaurant
Popular coffee shopsCelsius Cafe, Books@Cafe
Tap water safe to drinkNo
Digital nomad visaNo
Best taxi appCareem, Uber
Taxi price / km$0.5
Tourists / year4000000
Mobile internet speed10 Mbps
Unemployment percentage15 %
Poverty percentage15 %
Average income / month$500
Average cost of living / month$600
Hotel price / night from$40
Beer price from$2
Coffee price from$1.5
Street food price from$2
Restaurant meal price from$7
Local currencyJOD
Power plug typesType C, Type D, Type F
ReligionsIslam, Christianity
Spoken languagesArabic, English
EthnicitiesArab, Circassian, Chechen
Political orientationcenter-right
Population density300 /km²
Geographical area37500 km²
Possible natural disastersEarthquake, Flood
Dangerous animalsScorpion, Snake
Locations for a nice walkAqaba Corniche, Wadi Rum, Red Sea Beach
Public transportationsBus, Taxi
AirlinesRoyal Jordanian, Air Arabia
Suggested vaccinationsHepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus
Architecture typeIslamic, Modern
Average beer consumption per person / year2 l
Average wine consumption per person / year0.5 l
Tipping cultureExpected around 10% in restaurants
Coworking / day$15
Airbnb / month$400
1BR rent / month$250
Gym / month$40
Daily budget (backpacker)$30
Daily budget (mid-range)$50

Overview for Aqaba, Jordan

English proficiencyAverage
Traffic safetyAverage
Friendly to foreignersGood
Freedom of speechBad
Public transportationBad
HealthcareAverage
EducationAverage
Power grid reliabilityGood
Crime safetyAverage
WalkabilityGood
NightlifeAverage
Food sceneGood
LGBTQ+ friendlyBad
Startup sceneBad
Noise levelAverage
CleanlinessAverage
Nature accessGood
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