11-Day Ultimate Family Travel Guide Route in Jordan
Jordan is an incredibly welcoming destination for families, offering a blend of world-class history, breathtaking natural landscapes, and warm hospitality that makes traveling with children a joy. This 11-day route is designed with a relaxed pace in mind, focusing on accessible sites and activities that will keep the little ones engaged while parents soak in the culture.
From the bustling streets of Amman to the red sands of Wadi Rum and the therapeutic waters of the Dead Sea, we’ve selected locations that offer stroller-friendly paths or manageable walking distances. With comfortable intercity transfers and family-oriented accommodations, your journey through this Hashemite Kingdom will be as smooth as it is memorable.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Amman, Jordan - Arrival & Easy Exploration
Arrival at Queen Alia International Airport
Touch down in Amman and meet your driver for a comfortable transfer to your hotel. The airport is modern and easy to navigate with children.
Hotel Check-in & Relaxation
Settle into a family-friendly hotel in the Shmeisani or Rainbow Street area, known for their accessibility and nearby amenities.
Casual Dinner at Rainbow Street
Take a gentle stroll down Rainbow Street, which is relatively flat and stroller-accessible, for some fresh falafel and local juice.
Early Night Rest
Relax and adjust to the local time zone in preparation for your first full day of discovery.
Day 2: Amman, Jordan - History and Play
The Amman Citadel (Jabal al-Qal'a)
Explore the ruins of the Temple of Hercules. While some areas are rocky, the main pathways are wide and offer stunning views of the city.
Children's Museum Jordan
Located in the King Hussein Park, this is a world-class facility with over 180 interactive exhibits designed specifically for kids.
Royal Automobile Museum
Right next to the Children's Museum, this collection of cars is a huge hit with children and car enthusiasts alike.
Family Feast at Al Quds
Enjoy a traditional Mansaf or grilled meats in a setting that is very welcoming to large family groups.
Day 3: Jerash, Jordan - Roman Grandeur
Travel to Jerash
A scenic 50-minute drive north of Amman takes you to one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world.
Exploring the Oval Plaza
The main Cardo Maximus is flat and paved with ancient stones, making it surprisingly manageable for strollers.
Picnic Lunch among the Ruins
There are many shaded areas near the South Theater where families can enjoy a relaxed lunch break.
Roman Army and Chariot Experience
Watch a live re-enactment of Roman gladiator drills and chariot races (check schedules locally).
Day 4: Madaba & Mount Nebo, Jordan - Mosaics and Views
Madaba Mosaic Map
Visit St. George’s Church to see the famous 6th-century mosaic map of the Holy Land. It's a quick, easy, and very educational stop.
Mount Nebo
Drive to the spot where Moses is said to have seen the Promised Land. The site is very accessible and features a modern shelter for the mosaics.
Lunch at Haret Jdoudna
This historic restaurant offers a cozy courtyard setting that is perfect for children to move around safely while you eat.
Mosaic Craft Workshop
Visit a local workshop where kids can try their hand at laying small stones to create their own mosaic souvenir.
Day 5: Dead Sea, Jordan - Floating Fun
Drive to the Dead Sea
Descend to the lowest point on earth. The drive from Madaba is short (about 30-40 minutes) and offers dramatic scenery.
Resort Relaxation
Check into a Dead Sea resort. These are the best options for families as they offer controlled beach access and fresh-water pools.
Floating in the Dead Sea
Experience the unique sensation of floating. Ensure kids have goggles to prevent the salt water from getting in their eyes!
Sunset Dinner by the Sea
Enjoy a buffet dinner at the hotel, which usually includes a variety of options suitable for picky eaters.
Day 6: Dana Biosphere Reserve, Jordan - Nature and Fresh Air
Drive to Dana Village
Head south toward the Dana Biosphere Reserve. The journey is about 2.5 hours but offers incredible views along the King's Highway.
Dana Village Stroll
Explore the 15th-century stone village. It’s a quiet place where kids can see traditional life without the hustle of the city.
Short Nature Walk
Take a guided, easy-level walk along the village rim. It’s relatively flat and provides great bird-watching opportunities.
Stargazing at the Ecolodge
With very little light pollution, the night sky here is spectacular. A perfect, calm activity for the kids before bed.
Day 7: Petra, Jordan - The Rose Red City
The Siq Experience
Walk through the narrow gorge toward the Treasury. The path is flat and stroller-friendly. Alternatively, take an electric golf cart.
The Treasury (Al-Khazneh)
Marvel at the iconic facade. This is the perfect spot for family photos before the crowds arrive.
Lunch at Basin Restaurant
Located deep within the site, this managed restaurant offers a reliable buffet lunch to refuel the kids.
Colonnaded Street
Explore the wider sections of Petra, which are flat and house many ancient shops and temples that are easy to explore.
Day 8: Petra, Jordan - Little Petra & Leisure
Little Petra (Siq al-Barid)
A smaller, less crowded version of the main site. It’s easier for kids to run around and explore the rock-cut rooms.
Wadi Musa Village Lunch
Try some local 'Galayet Bandora' (tomato stew) at a local cafe in the town of Wadi Musa.
Hotel Pool Time
After two days of exploration, give the children some downtime to splash around in the hotel pool.
Petra by Night (Optional)
If the kids are up for it, see the Treasury lit by thousands of candles. It’s a magical, slow-paced experience.
Day 9: Wadi Rum, Jordan - Martian Landscapes
Travel to Wadi Rum
A 2-hour drive brings you to the desert. The landscape change is dramatic and exciting for children.
4x4 Jeep Tour
The best way to see the desert. Jeeps are equipped with seats in the back, making it a thrilling but safe ride for families.
Sandboarding at the Red Dunes
Kids will love sliding down the soft sand dunes. It's a safe and high-energy activity.
Traditional Zarb Dinner
Experience a Bedouin barbecue cooked underground. It’s a fascinating process for kids to watch.
Day 10: Aqaba, Jordan - Red Sea Relaxation
Drive to Aqaba
A short 1-hour drive from the desert to the coastal city of Aqaba on the Red Sea.
Glass-Bottom Boat Trip
Perfect for kids who are too young for snorkeling. See the coral reefs and colorful fish without getting wet.
Beach Club Afternoon
Relax at a private beach club with shallow waters and plenty of shade for the kids.
Aqaba Marine Park
Visit this protected area for an easy walk and to learn about the marine life of the Red Sea.
Day 11: Amman, Jordan - Final Souvenirs & Departure
Return Drive to Amman
Take the Desert Highway back toward the capital (approx. 4 hours) for your final day.
Souvenir Shopping at the Souq
Visit the Downtown Souq to pick up some last-minute spices, Dead Sea products, or hand-woven rugs.
Final Coffee at Wild Jordan Center
Enjoy a final view of the Amman Citadel while the kids enjoy the play area and healthy snacks.
Transfer to Airport
Your driver will take you back to Queen Alia International Airport for your evening flight home.
Best Time to Visit Jordan
The best time for a family trip to Jordan is during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). During these periods, the temperatures are mild and pleasant for outdoor exploration, avoiding the scorching heat of summer and the surprisingly cold, rainy days of winter. Spring is particularly beautiful as the desert can sometimes bloom with wildflowers.
Currency & Money
The local currency is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). While major hotels, upscale restaurants, and large shops in Amman and Aqaba accept credit cards (Visa and Mastercard), cash is essential for smaller vendors, markets, and tipping. Tipping is a common practice in Jordan; 10% is standard in restaurants if a service charge isn't included, and small tips for drivers and guides are always appreciated.
Getting Around Jordan
For families, the most comfortable way to get around Jordan is by hiring a private car with a driver or renting a modern SUV. This allows for flexibility in your schedule and provides a safe, air-conditioned environment for the kids between stops. There are no passenger trains in Jordan, and while JETT buses are reliable for city-to-city travel, they may not offer the door-to-door convenience that families with strollers and heavy luggage require.
