6-Day Classic Family Adventure Route in Jordan
Jordan is an exceptional destination for families, offering a blend of world-class history, breathtaking natural landscapes, and a culture that deeply values children. This itinerary focuses on the 'Classic Route' but adapts it for those traveling with little ones, ensuring stroller-accessible paths where possible and a relaxed pace that avoids 'ruin fatigue.'
By utilizing Amman as a northern base before heading south to the Dead Sea and Petra, you minimize hotel hopping. We recommend purchasing the Jordan Pass before arrival to save on visa fees and entrance tickets, making your budget go much further while exploring this Middle Eastern gem.
Day 1: Amman, Jordan - Arrival & Historic Heights
Arrival at Queen Alia International Airport
Touch down in Amman and clear customs. For a stress-free start, pre-book a private transfer to your hotel to avoid negotiating with taxis with luggage and kids.
Amman Citadel (Jabal al-Qal'a)
Perched on the highest hill, the Citadel offers great views and space for kids to run around. Most paths are wide enough for a sturdy stroller.
Roman Theater & Hashemite Plaza
Visit the impressively preserved theater. The large plaza in front is a local family favorite where kids can chase pigeons while parents enjoy a coffee.
Dinner at Rainbow Street
End the day on this trendy, walkable street. Try the famous falafel at Al Quds or enjoy a sit-down meal at Sufra, which has a lovely garden terrace.
Day 2: Amman, Jordan - Ancient Cities & Kid-Friendly Museums
Jerash Archaeological Site
A 50-minute drive from Amman. Jerash is one of the best-preserved Roman cities. The Oval Plaza and Cardo Maximus are largely flat and stroller-friendly.
Lunch at Lebanese House
Located in Jerash, this restaurant is famous for its massive mezze spreads and hospitable service, perfect for families sharing a meal.
The Children's Museum Jordan
Back in Amman, let the kids have hands-on fun with over 180 indoor and outdoor exhibits designed for various age groups.
Relaxed Evening at Al Hussein Public Parks
Located right next to the museum, these parks are beautiful for a sunset stroll before a quiet dinner near your hotel.
Day 3: Dead Sea, Jordan - Mosaics & Floating Fun
Mount Nebo
Drive toward the Dead Sea, stopping at the site where Moses saw the Promised Land. The modern church is fully accessible and houses stunning mosaics.
Madaba Mosaic Map
Visit St. George's Church to see the oldest floor map of the Holy Land. The town is compact and easy to navigate with children.
Dead Sea Floating
Check into a resort for the afternoon. The salt water is famously buoyant. Note: Keep salt water out of children's eyes! Use the resort pools for actual swimming.
Dead Sea Sunset
Enjoy the lowest point on earth as the sun sets over the Judean Mountains. Most resorts offer buffet dinners which are convenient for picky eaters.
Day 4: Petra, Jordan - The Road South
Scenic Drive to Wadi Musa
A 3-hour drive via the Desert Highway. It’s the fastest route, allowing more time for activities once you arrive at the gateway to Petra.
Little Petra (Siq al-Barid)
A smaller, less crowded version of the main site. It’s a great 'warm-up' for kids and much easier to navigate without the massive crowds.
Petra Museum
Located at the entrance of the main site, this modern museum is air-conditioned and interactive, providing great context before your big visit tomorrow.
Petra by Night
If your children are older, this candlelit walk to the Treasury is magical. If traveling with toddlers, consider a quiet early night instead.
Day 5: Petra, Jordan - The Rose Red City
The Siq & The Treasury
Start early to beat the heat. The walk through the Siq is 1.2km of flat ground. Electric golf carts are available for those with limited mobility or tired children.
The Street of Facades
Explore the large tombs and caves. Kids love the 'Indiana Jones' vibe of the rock-cut architecture.
Lunch at Basin Restaurant
Located deep within the site, this is a managed buffet by the Crowne Plaza, offering a comfortable place to rest before the return walk.
Wadi Musa Village
Exit the site and explore the town. Buy some local spices or a 'sand bottle' art piece as a souvenir of your journey.
Day 6: Wadi Rum, Jordan - Martian Landscapes & Departure
Wadi Rum Jeep Tour
A 2-hour drive from Petra. Take a 4x4 tour of the desert. The open-air trucks are a huge hit with kids, and the sand is like a giant playground.
Bedouin Tea & Lunch
Experience authentic hospitality in a desert camp. Bedouin culture is very welcoming to families and children.
Sandboarding at Al Hasany Dunes
The soft red sand is perfect for kids to try sandboarding or simply rolling down the dunes.
Farewell Dinner in Wadi Musa
Head back toward the airport area or stay one last night in a luxury camp to stargaze.
Best Time to Visit Jordan
The best time to visit Jordan is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the temperatures are mild enough for children to explore outdoors comfortably. Summer can be intensely hot, especially in Petra and Wadi Rum, while winter can be surprisingly cold with occasional snow in Amman.
Currency & Money
The local currency is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). While credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and larger restaurants in Amman and the Dead Sea, you will need cash for smaller shops, tipping, and stalls inside Petra. Tipping (baksheesh) is a standard part of the culture; around 10% is appreciated in restaurants if a service charge isn't included.
Getting Around Jordan
The most comfortable way to travel between cities with a family is by renting a private car or hiring a driver. Jordan’s roads are generally in good condition. While JETT buses offer reliable intercity transport between Amman, Petra, and Aqaba, they follow fixed schedules that might not align with a toddler's nap time. Taxis are plentiful in Amman but always ensure they use the meter.
