Travel writing based on first-hand experience
From snorkeling in the Red Sea to exploring ancient ruins and vibrant souks, here are thebest things to do in Aqaba , Jordan for an unforgettable seaside escape.
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Plotting your Red Sea days and wondering what to pair with our Best Things to Do in Aqaba guide? These reads fit neatly alongside it, whether you want a tighter city plan, an easy desert add-on, or a bigger Jordan route once the snorkeling, boat trips, and beach time are locked in.
- Turn your activity list into a proper short trip with this Aqaba itinerary
- Add a desert detour with this guide to Wadi Rum Jordan
- Stretch the trip into a bigger route with this Jordan itinerary
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- Add one more memorable stop with these unique experiences in Jordan
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Table of Contents
Getting Around Aqaba
Getting around Aqaba is pleasantly low-drama, which feels almost suspicious after bigger Middle Eastern cities. The center is compact, the corniche is walkable, and many of the main restaurants, cafes, souks, and beaches sit close enough together that we can simply wander from one stop to the next without turning it into a logistical crisis.
For short distances, walking is often the easiest option, especially around downtown Aqaba, the waterfront, and the area near hotel clusters. Just keep in mind that the heat can be fierce for much of the year, so what looks like a casual stroll on the map can suddenly feel like a small desert expedition by midday. Early mornings and evenings are much kinder.
Taxis are the easiest way to cover longer distances in town. They are widely available, relatively affordable, and useful if you are heading to a beach club, a resort area, or the southern beaches outside the center. It is smart to agree on the fare before getting in if the meter is not being used. Ride-hailing apps may work depending on current local availability, but regular taxis are still the dependable old-school option.
If we are planning day trips beyond the city, such as Wadi Rum, Petra, or the Saudi border area, renting a car can make sense. Roads in and around Aqaba are generally straightforward, and having your own vehicle gives you much more flexibility, especially if you want to combine beaches, desert landscapes, and regional stops at your own pace. That said, for travelers staying only in Aqaba itself, a car is more bonus than necessity.
Minibuses and local buses do exist, but they are not the most visitor-friendly option if you are short on time or not comfortable navigating informal schedules. For most travelers, the winning formula is very simple: walk when you can, grab a taxi when you cannot, and save the rental car for bigger adventures.
Best Things to Do in Aqaba
1. Explore the Souk of Aqaba (Souk By The Sea)
Your visit to Aqaba should start with a stroll through its traditional souk. Let yourself get lost in the maze of narrow alleys bursting with colors and aromas from spice stalls, sweet shops, and craft vendors. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs like local sweets, spices, and Jordanian handicrafts. Feeling peckish? Grab a quick bite from a street vendor while you’re at it.
2. Visit Aqaba Castle (Aqaba Fort)
A must-see in Aqaba, this historic fort is the oldest in the region, dating back to the early 16th century. History buffs will appreciate the architectural details and strategic location. To get the most out of your visit, consider hiring a guide to explain the structure’s role throughout centuries of military activity.
3. Aqaba Archaeological Museum
Though modest in size with just four rooms, this museum is worth visiting to dive deeper into the city’s past. It highlights Roman, Byzantine, and Nabataean periods and showcases artifacts from Aqaba’s history as a thriving trade hub. Entry is free, and the visit won’t take more than an hour.
4. Ruins of Ayla
To the northwest of the city center lie the remains of Ayla, a former Islamic city dating back to the 6th century. Though the site is not very large, its columns and wall remnants stir the imagination. Some explanatory signs are present, but a guided tour is recommended to bring the ruins to life.
5. Sharif Hussein Bin Ali Mosque
This striking white mosque is considered the most beautiful in Aqaba. Open to non-Muslims outside of prayer times, it offers visitors a moment of peace above the bustling souk. The building is a fine example of Islamic architecture and provides great views over the city.
6. Aqaba’s Public Beaches
While the public beaches aren’t ideal for swimming, they’re perfect for relaxing or people-watching. Stretching out toward the horizon, they offer plenty of space to unwind. Rent a shisha pipe, enjoy a shawarma, or sip on a cool drink from nearby vendors.
7. Private Beach Clubs
Aqaba boasts several private beach clubs where you can swim, relax, or try water activities.
Berenice Beach Club
Split into two areas, one offers beach access with snorkeling, water skiing, and cruises to Pharaoh’s Island. The other features a pool, bar, and countless loungers—ideal for unwinding.
Ayla Oasis
This luxury development offers private beaches, a massive golf course, bars, restaurants, shops, and activities like hot-air balloon rides and scuba diving.
8. Discover Local Wildlife
Aqaba Bird Observatory
This artificial wetland is a stopover point for many migrating bird species. It’s home to 390 species including ducks and waders, especially vibrant in spring and autumn.
Marine Reserve
Created in 2004, this 7-km coastal park protects the rich marine life of the Red Sea. About 20 diving sites are located here, showcasing vibrant coral reefs and exotic fish.
Aquarium at the Marine Science Station
Dive into the wonders of the Red Sea without getting wet. This research center-turned-aquarium, established in the 1970s, houses a variety of marine species native to Jordan’s coastline.
9. Glass-Bottom Boat Tours
One of the most unique experiences in Aqaba is taking a ride on a glass-bottom boat. The transparent base lets you observe the Red Sea’s colorful marine life without needing diving gear. Expect coral formations and bright tropical fish—perfect for families or non-swimmers.
10. Try Jordanian Food
No visit to Aqaba is complete without tasting some authentic local dishes. Jordanian cuisine is influenced by its neighbors but has a charm of its own:
- Mezze: Small plates of cold or hot starters, including familiar dishes like hummus.
- Grilled skewers: Often served with traditional flatbread (khobz).
- Baklava: Sweet, flaky pastries filled with nuts and syrup—perfect for dessert.
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