Planning Your Honeymoon in Jordan

History buffs and hiking enthusiasts already know that Jordan is a bucket-list destination, but it hasn't traditionally been on the radar of travelers seeking newly-wedded romance.  We say: why not? Jordan has a perfect balance of opportunities for relaxation and adventure, along with unique dining and lodging options for every budget and preference. The country is small, with excellent tourism infrastructure and hospitable culture, making it super manageable for a short and sweet getaway. Ditch the tropical island you were considering for your post-nuptials trip and spend your honeymoon in Jordan after reading our expert advice. 

Planning Your Itinerary

Given the country's diminutive size, Jordan makes a great choice for a honeymoon no matter how much time you have. You can catch a number of highlights in 3-4 days (this tour is a great example), but we recommend staying for at least one week to achieve the relaxed pace you'll likely want after saying "I do." Most travelers start in Amman, before traveling south to visit Petra and the Wadi Rum wilderness. From there, you'll likely want to spend some time lounging at the Dead Sea before making your way back to the capital city.

If you have extra time or desire a more action-packed vibe for your honeymoon, you can add a short excursion from Amman to Jerash in the rolling hills of Northern Jordan, or include a multi-day trekking experience - we've listed one of our favorites below. Another option is a combined trip to Jordan and Israel—crossing the border is actually a seamless experience if you plan ahead, and Israel has plenty of its own incredible offerings. For more on crossing the border between Jordan and Israel,  read this article 

No matter how long you decide to spend exploring the region, you'll want help planning your visit and getting around. Your honeymoon is about relaxation, so leave the details to a local expert and have a dedicated guide show you around. 

Jordan's Romantic Experiences

Sunrise Over the Desert in Wadi Rum

Wadi Rum is a vast and otherworldly expanse of protected desert wilderness near Jordan's southern border. Any couple would love touring the area by Jeep, taking a camel ride, or having a spontaneous just-married photo shoot among the rock formations. However, the most romantic activity in Wadi Rum is a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the desert, offering sweeping views of the valley below. The night before your sky-high excursion, spend the night glamping at Wadi Rum Night Camp, where you'll want to book one of the fabulous domed stargazing tents. 

Vibrant Food Scene in Amman

Amman has its fair share of ancient ruins and interesting museums, but newly married couples will want to focus on the city's culinary delights. Hashem's famous falafel is great for lunch, authentic, and wallet-friendly. For dinner, treat yourself in a beautiful setting at Sufra - make sure to ask for a table on the garden patio of this Rainbow Street restaurant.  

Afterward, savor dessert downtown at Habibah Sweets, where you'll find some of the best knafeh in the city. Near Abdoun Circle, you'll find the Blue Fig Café, an eclectic eatery that often hosts art shows and live music. Then, learn how to recreate your favorite dishes together at home with a class at Beit Sitti, where you'll master traditional Jordanian dishes and feast on the meal you prepared with the help of a local chef.  

Candlelit Evening in Petra

Petra tops the list of attractions in Jordan, and wandering the beautifully preserved, ancient city by day is amazing on its own. But for a truly awe-inspiring experience, couples will want to take part in Petra By Night. You'll have the enchanting opportunity to see the dramatic walls of the Siq lit by candlelight before finding a seat in front of the majestic Treasury for tea and Bedouin music under the starry sky. Then, head back to your room at the Fig Tree B&B, known for its hospitality, great food, and proximity to Petra's entrance. You can even book a chair massage in the property's beautiful garden.

Luxurious Dead Sea Resorts

Don't worry about missing out on the traditional resort vibe in Jordan - the Dead Sea has all the lovely beaches, swimming pools, and indulgent spa services you've been envisioning for your honeymoon. Spend your days getting mud wraps, facials, or a couples massage with your new spouse, regional spa specialties known for their healing properties.

There are plenty of luxury accommodations to choose from, including the Kempinski and Movenpick resorts, both of which have private beaches along with multiple pools and a selection of fine dining establishments. 

Hiking in the Dana Biosphere Reserve

Spend some time hiking with your sweetheart through the biggest nature preserve in Jordan, where the country's desert dunes and mountain peaks meet in one sprawling protected area. Hundreds of types of flora and fauna can be found here, with only a fraction of the tourists in some of Jordan's other attractions.

Stay at the sustainable and chic Feynan Ecolodge, where you can take short guided hikes and even sign up to spend a day with Bedouin herders. Or stay for a day before heading out on your first multi-day trek as a married couple, the classic 9-day hike from Dana to Petra.

Hilly Retreat in Northern Jordan 

Sneak away to the green, rolling hills of Northern Jordan for a night or two, and enjoy a change of scenery. Restaurants in the area feature locally sourced ingredients, including olives and olive oil from the ubiquitous groves dotting the region. In spring, you'll have plenty of wildflowers to admire on your morning strolls, and you can visit the ruins at Jerash and Umm Qais for a worthwhile history lesson. This is also the perfect place to take part in local experiences, like visiting traditional soapmakers at Orjan Soap House.

When To Go

Jordan is a year-round destination, but honeymooners will love the temperate and predictable weather of spring and fall. From March-May and September-November, day and evening temperatures are pleasant and rain is an unlikely event, making these seasons perfect for all of our suggested activities.

If you have a summer or winter wedding planned, don't be discouraged—as long as you're okay with more extreme temperatures, there are perks to coming in the off-season. Smaller crowds mean you might just have Petra to yourself at sunrise. What could be more romantic than that?