Aqaba where to go. Aqaba - attractions, beautiful places to see for tourists in Aqaba. Diving Center - Deep Blue Dive Center

“Aqaba!” Exclaimed Peter O'Toole in the epic film “Lawrence of Arabia.” This exclamation for some reason pops up in memory at the mention of the only resort in Jordan on the Red Sea. The city is beautiful. A particularly impressive panorama opens from the Gulf of Aqaba: water surface and a picturesque corner of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan against the backdrop of desert mountains of cinnamon color. Aqaba offers its guests any relaxation: beach, informative, active. Wonderful weather all year round, fascinating coral reefs, the opportunity to do various chnymi water sports are attracted to the Jordanian Red Sea coast fans drive-rest. The cozy resort town are increasingly choosing families with children, and lovers combine beach relaxation with sightseeing.

Video review of the resort of Aqaba.

Popular Aqaba beaches

The exotic beauty of Aqaba attracts people of all ages, thirsting for the bright sun, the cleanest sea and a beautiful view of the mountains leaving in the water. Depending on preferences, vacationers choose one of three beaches: North (North Beach Area), where most of the hotels are located, Middle (Middle Beach Area) and South (South Beach Area). Active tourists are offered diving clubs, water skiing, windsurfing, parasailing and other "adrenaline" entertainment. Coastal coral reefs are as good as in Egyptian resorts, but there are fewer vacationers in Aqaba, so it’s much more pleasant to admire the colorful world of marine life. During the day you can swim with turtles and dolphins, and during a night dive, watch the hunting of underwater predators: crabs, lobsters and others. For those who prefer to "keep their feet dry", but also want to see the inhabitants of the deep sea, equipped with glass bottom boats.

Aqaba Attractions

You can dilute the beach doing nothing by visiting the sights of the old town. Five and a half thousand years ago, Aqaba played a prominent role in the economy of the region. It was an important node of land and sea trade routes, a kind of gateway between the East and the West: the Babylonians, Persians, Nabataeans, Byzantines and Romans. Fort Aqaba today proudly rises fortified walls with round towers in the corners. He witnessed many civilizations, served as a military facility and caravanserai for pilgrims to Mecca. An arched entrance leads into the courtyard to the vaulted chambers. The inscription in Arabic confirms that the fortress was built during the reign of the Mamelukes in the XIV century. Not far from the fort is the Archaeological Museum, which has a large collection of artifacts from the Bronze Age.

The main attraction and symbol of Aqaba is a giant flagpole crowned with the flag of the Arab rebellion, which is visible from neighboring states. It is interesting to see the ruins of the ancient Islamic city of Islay, where archaeological excavations are ongoing.

Jordan Attractions within walking distance

“Beach” Aqaba is a convenient starting point for day trips to the iconic places of Jordan. The Wadi Rum Desert is only 55 kilometers from the resort, but the trip can take two days. Enchanted by the stunning “cosmic” landscapes that served as the location for a number of iconic films, tourists stay overnight in Bedouin tribes to stay longer among the red sands and meet the sunrise.

A two-hour drive from any Aqaba hotel is the main attraction of Jordan - Petra. Carved out of red sandstone, the “Pink City” is fascinating. And although a hike between the towering cliffs along the famous canyon of Petra may seem tedious, the ancient architectural masterpieces that open to the eyes of travelers are worth it.

In the bay near the Egyptian Taba is the island of Pharaoh with a preserved medieval citadel. The fortress was visited by Lawrence of Arabia. Going on a sea excursion and visiting a small island is interesting. But the return to Aqaba leaves unforgettable impressions: the view of the city from the bay is amazing.

Evening entertainment in Aqaba

Pleasant evening walks along the coast. Traditionally, locals gather on the promenade, chat, smoke hookah, play backgammon, have dinner, drink coffee, watching the sun go down over Aqaba Bay, and night changes day. Fishermen come back with a catch, the smell of fried fish is mixed with the aroma of freshly ground coffee ... The cuisine in Jordan is tasty, satisfying and inexpensive. In the center of Aqaba they cook good hummus, falafel, shawarma. In the restaurants on the shore you can taste fish with rice and tomatoes, fresh seafood, and traditional African-Arabic dishes. The kit comes with a magnificent panoramic view of the Gulf of Aqaba.

Tourists note: in any cafe or restaurant there is wi-fi - this is understandable. Free wi-fi is available throughout the city - it's nice.

As such, there is no nightlife in Aqaba. The only disco is open on the territory of the Radisson Blu Tala Bay Resort 5 *.

Shopping, souvenirs

Jordan retains a rich heritage of crafts. Unique souvenirs can be brought from the country: kilims (handmade carpets), miniature mosaics, painted ostrich eggs, bottles with intricate patterns of colored sand, beads and silver Bedouin jewelry. The market street, where spices, sweets and other "joys of the east" are sold, is located behind the main mosque. Aqaba is a duty-free zone, which is also nice.

Holidays in Aqaba

Framed by magnificent sandy beaches, amber mountains and a shimmering desert, Aqaba is like a golden glow. The resort captivates with a relaxed atmosphere, pleasant climate and convenient location not far from the main attractions of Jordan. No wonder the place is becoming more and more popular. Here you can spend a fantastic vacation, and at any time of the year with guaranteed beautiful weather. Aqaba is a worthy alternative to Egyptian resorts. Come see!

One of the popular destinations for winter tourists craving for an inexpensive vacation is Jordan. Aqaba is the only seaside resort in the country. The city is famous for its centuries-old history, numerous attractions, a unique climate, beaches and coral reefs. What rest should be expected in Aqaba? You will learn this from our article.

This resort is located in the very north of the Gulf of Aqaba of the Red Sea. Three hundred thirty-five kilometers are separated from it. Aqaba has a border position on the political map of the world. Very close is the Israeli resort of Eilat. And through the waters of the bay you can see the Egyptian Taba. But rest in Aqaba is not like a vacation in Israel. There is no seal relaxation there, as in the hotels of Egypt with their "all inclusive". Aqaba attracts young and active natures who prefer outdoor activities. Since there are so many attractions that spending all days on the beach is simply a sin.

How to get to Aqaba

The easiest way to reach the resort is from To avoid any misunderstandings at the border, it is easier to get from Amman (Jordan). Aqaba is located more than three hundred kilometers south of it. You can overcome this distance on JETT state buses. They are very comfortable and arrive in Aqaba at the Movenpick Hotel on King Hussein Street. An alternative to the state carrier is the private company Trust International Transport. Her buses arrive at Al Nahda Street. Travel time (regardless of carrier) is four hours. From Aqaba you can get to the city of Irbida, as well as to Nuweibu (Egypt). In total, eleven flights depart from Amman to the southern resort: five for a state-owned company and six for a private one. You can move around Aqaba in a taxi (they are yellow) or in minibuses. Stops in the latter - at the request of the passenger, anywhere in the sequence. The cost of a taxi should be agreed with the driver in advance.

When to go to Aqaba

What is unique about the climate of this seaside resort? The mountains protect it from the north not only from cold winds, but also from the blow of the desert. Therefore, the climate here does not look like arid and full of temperature contrasts, which Jordan is famous for. Aqaba is attractive because you can swim and sunbathe here all year round, even in winter. The water temperature in the bay never drops below + 22 degrees, which makes it possible to develop coral. But we will talk about them later. In the meantime, it should be noted that in the summer in Aqaba there is no extreme temperature. The heat begins to strangle the city only in the afternoon. Of course, cores and hypertensives should prefer winter vacations in the resort of Jordan. The peak of the season is observed twice a year: in spring and autumn. It is in the offseason that the weather is comfortable in all respects. If bathing in the Red Sea attracts you the most, then choose autumn for your trip. Water temperature on average fluctuates around + 27 degrees.

Where to stay

Aqaba hotels have their own specifics. They rarely find the All Inclusive program. This is not Egypt, but Jordan. Aqaba Radisson Blu Tala Bay Resort 5, Intercontinental, Movenpike and other fashionable resort hotels offer their guests only included in the price of the buffet. About where to have lunch, dinner or just a snack - read below. There is no shortage of budget hotels in Aqaba. They do not amaze the imagination with oriental luxury and stucco molding in the rooms, but a clean room and a hearty breakfast are guaranteed. For sea views here, as in other resorts, you have to pay extra. But there is one caveat that summer tourists should consider. The sea in Aqaba is located in the south. Consequently, the sun will shine mercilessly all day in such expensive rooms, and no air conditioning will save you from the heat.

Jordan, Aqaba: prices

A huge hotel base gives everyone the opportunity to choose housing to their taste. The Kempinski Hotel is probably the most expensive. A night in a standard room at this hotel will cost eleven thousand rubles. On average, the “five” (“Movenpick”, “Double Three Hilton Hilton”, “Marina Plaza Tala Bay” and others) offer housing for six to seven thousand rubles a day. A great option where value for money is perfect, these are four-star Aqaba hotels. These are the Dise Inn Hotel and Suites (from 4,660 rubles), Golden Tulip (3,700), Yaafko (3,600) and others. In the resort you can stay in budget hotels, which, of course, are not on the first line from the sea. As an example, you can specify “Plaza Masvada” (2 800 rubles). Aqaba is a city in Jordan declared a duty free zone. This feature of the resort allows not only to make inexpensive purchases, but also to buy cheap cigars and alcohol. The selection of these products in the city is really wide.

Jordan, Aqaba: sea

What is a sin to hide - mostly go to the resort to sunbathe and swim. The beaches of Aqaba are sandy and pebble-rocky. The former are located in the northern part of the city, and the latter in the southern part. The lion's share of beaches are fully owned by hotels on the first line. There are quite convenient coasts belonging to the municipality. Admission is free, and ammunition (umbrellas, deck chairs and sun loungers) can be rented. Aqaba is a city in Jordan where municipal beaches are well-equipped. There is a shower, a toilet, lifeguards are on duty, there is a cafe, sometimes right on the shore. If you are not an Islamophobe and the community of local residents does not abhor you, you will have a good time on such a beach. If not, for a small bribe you will be allowed to go to the coast, which belongs to a hotel. You will not find anything particularly chic there. Just in a cafe and bar on the beach, the prices will be much higher. The Red Sea is wonderful here. The water is very clear with excellent visibility. Low tides are not too pronounced. In the south, coral reefs come close to the coast.

Diving in the Gulf of Aqaba

The resort has six diving training centers, and they issue BS-AC, SSI or PADI diplomas. In the immediate vicinity of the coast there are about thirty dive sites. And this is attractive for lovers of scuba diving Jordan (Aqaba).

What is the sea off the coast of the resort? Between April and May, when plankton blooms, visibility under water decreases to twelve meters. But if you come to Aqaba in the summer months, then the transparency of the sea reaches 50 m. Many coral reefs in the south of the city come so close to the coast that there is no need to rent a boat. You can admire it lightly - only with a pipe and a mask. But if you want to go diving seriously, there is nothing better than coming to The Royal Diving Center. This center has its own sandy beach. Beginners will be up to date at Sea Star Dive Center. This school is located in the Al-Qazar Hotel.

What to see in Aqaba

Mysterious Petra, Wadi Rum desert, the place of baptism of Jesus Christ - all this is the country of Jordan. Aqaba is a young resort. But he developed from a very ancient settlement, which is no less than six thousand years old. At first, the Edomites and Nabataeans lived there. Then the city was part of the Roman Empire. In the Middle Ages, the path of pilgrims to Mecca went through it. The Romans, Byzantines, Crusaders, Ottoman Turks - all left behind a cultural mark. Here are the ruins of the oldest Christian church in the world. The ancient city stood on a rocky cape, which is now called Tell al Khalifa hill. There you can see artifacts recovered from archaeological excavations. During the Crusades, a European fort was built by European knights. It was maintained in a “working condition” for centuries, and therefore the Mamluk Fortress has survived to this day. Next to this citadel is a historical museum.

In the vicinity of the resort is the cave of Lot. According to biblical tradition, it was from here that the righteous with his daughters watched the death. In the cave of Lot, you can see the Byzantine church, decorated with mosaics and several old tombs. Reviews recommend visiting Wadi Mujib, a gorge declared a national park. The extreme southern position of the resort will not prevent you from getting to know a country called Jordan. Excursions from Aqaba to Petra ($ 170 per group), Amman ($ 50), to the hot springs, the Wadi Rum desert or to the holy places where Christ revealed himself to the people, last only one light day. The border position of the resort makes possible trips to neighboring countries - to Israel (Eilat, Jerusalem), to the island of Pharaohs (Egypt).

Jordan  (Jordanian Hashemite Kingdom) is an Arab state located in the Middle East. The main part of the country's area is occupied by deserts, hills and mountains, where there is practically no vegetation.

At the same time, the food, textile, oil refining and tobacco industries are well developed in it, phosphates are extracted, and cement is made.

Jordan also represents scientific and cultural center of the whole Middle East, there are more than forty large educational institutions, including those with a military profile. And the unique monuments of antiquity and resorts attract a huge number of tourists. This country is considered very friendly towards visitors of any nationality and religion.

Geographical position

The location is western part of Asia, in the south it is washed by the Red Sea. Its boundaries are defined as follows:

• In the northern part - Syria;
• In the northeastern part - Iraq;
• In the eastern and southern parts - Saudi Arabia;
• In the western part - Israel  and Palestinian Authority.

Due to the geographic location in Jordan, mainly warm and dry weather.

At any time of the year, the water temperature in the Red and Dead Seas ranges from twenty to twenty-two degrees.

Sights of Jordan on the map

Jordan can be called unique country, in which there are about twenty thousand ancient monuments, many of which were built in the Neolithic era. At the same time, they are wonderfully combined with modern buildings.

Petra

Petra is very unusual rocky city, the mention of which is still in the Bible, and its construction still holds many mysteries. Due to the reddish-pink color of the rocks, it is often called the "pink city". It is believed that it was here that Moses extracted water from the rocks.

The river flowing in Petra is called Wadi Musa (Moses River). According to research, we can say that the construction of the city began more than two thousand years ago, and initially it was amazingly cut down in the rocks.

His story is rich in various events and well-preserved ancient buildings allowed Peter to be included in uNESCO World Heritage Site. Also at the beginning of the twentieth century, she was recognized as one of new seven wonders of the world.

The beginning of a journey through a rocky city is entrance to a narrow gorgesurrounded by very high cliffs.

Sunlight does not get into the gorge, and without additional lighting, the movement is in complete darkness.

Then the path becomes a little brighter, and you can already see the niches that were cut down in the rocks to accommodate statues.

The exit from the tunnel usually occurs in the bright light of the sun, and a large building with two names catches your eye - Al Khazneh  and Treasure House of Pharaoh.

It is believed that the time of the construction of Al-Khazneh was the second century AD. It is not known what he was intended at the time, but it is assumed that he was temple or mausoleum.

The mystery is  and how the ancient masters managed to build such a magnificent building. According to modern experts, this requires the use of scaffolding. But, to find building material in those places was almost impossible.

It is assumed that the builders moved up the ruins in the rocks, but it is not clear how they managed to work on weight. Also remains a secrethow the calculations were carried out buildings.



• Al-Khazneh is gradually expanding the tunnel, and becomes visible old rocky city. Here you can see a large number of stone houses, markets, entertainment venues and other buildings.
• You can also find here ed Deir Temple, located at the very top of the cliff, and also being a valuable architectural monument. In front of it is a large square, which was apparently used for various religious ceremonies.

• Nearby is a three-story building Roman Palace (Palace Tomb).

  The lower part of the Roman palace is carved in the rocks, and blocks of hewn stones have already been used for the construction of the upper one.

  The lower tier is a large room in which sacred holidays were held and the dead were revered. Tourists can not only examine the appearance of the building, but also go inside.

  In addition to the above historical monuments in Peter there is a huge amount interesting buildingsstarting from the very first, which were roughly executed by ancient masters, and those that were erected by ancient masters. Apparently therefore, the rocky city every year attracts a huge number of tourists who want to see great works of art.

  Aqaba

  

  Aqaba  - This is the only seaside resort and port of Jordan, as the country has the only small area access to the Red Sea. According to scientific data, the first settlements appeared here six thousand years ago.

  Tourists are very fond of Red sea, which is characterized by clean and very salty water, which allows you to go swimming even for those who are just starting to learn it. The variety of the underwater world also attracts.

  Through crystal water you can enjoy fish of various breeds, corals and other marine life.

  • Of the architectural attractions of Aqaba, the main is considered mamluk fortressbuilt in the sixteenth century. Its location is the seashore, and on all sides it is surrounded by beautiful, tall palm trees. Near the fortress there is a museum where you can get acquainted with the history of the city.
  • The next most important historical monument of Aqaba can be called lot's cave, which is a monastery complex. It also houses the Byzantine church and a small number of tombs.

  Amman

  

  Amman  It is the capital of Jordan and its largest city. Initially, seven hills were selected for its construction, which the seven-pointed star symbolizes on the country's flag.

  Today the city is already located on ten hills, the slopes of which adorn white houses and villas, which is why Amman is also called "White City". For the construction of buildings used white stones (limestone). Houses are built very quickly and have a variety of shapes.

  Amman is one of the most important industrial centers of the country with an international airport.

  The main attraction of the city can be called Jebel Al Qalya (Castle Hill). It is famous for monuments of various times, the most valuable of which are the colonnade of the Temple of Hercules, Al-Qasr Palace, the Byzantine church and the ancient amphitheater, designed for more than six thousand people.

  1. Jordanian archaeological museum;
  2. Jordanian museum of folk traditions;
  3. Museum of Folklore;
  4. Archaeological Museum  University of Jordan;
  5. Anthropological Museum  University of Jordan;
  6. Museum of Numismatics;
  7. Royal Automobile Museum.

  Nature lovers can admire it in a location near the city mujib Nature Reserve. It was founded in 1987 in the Wadi Mujib gorge. On its west side is the Dead Sea, and on the east - mountains.

  Here you can see more than four hundred plant speciessome of which are very rare. Also lives here ten kinds of animals  and about one hundred and fifty species of birds, many of which need protection.

  Going to distant countries, find out about the symptoms of acclimatization, because this nuisance can overtake absolutely unexpectedly.

  The Dead Sea

  

  The Dead Sea between Israel and Jordan is actually considered saline closed lakewhose age is about fifteen thousand years. This is a unique place, which is the lowest point on Earth.

  Due to the specific composition of its water, it has become a unique healing place, which a huge number of people from all over the world seek to visit.

  Also special healing mudpossessing a special therapeutic effect, analogues of which were not found. For the convenience of vacationers, in addition to resorts, hotels and other tourist facilities are located on the shores of the Dead Sea.

  Due to too high salt concentration in the Dead Sea there is neither vegetation, nor fish, nor any other inhabitants, except for archeobacteria, due to which therapeutic mud is formed.

  You will not meet on the lake no trees, no grasssince the soil is covered with salt crust. But in such salty water you just can’t drown, but you can rest calmly, just lying on your back or stomach and at the same time heal.

People inhabited the territory of present-day Jordan several thousand years ago; monuments of all the main historical periods have survived to this day. On its expanses you can see both cave paintings and the ancient cities of the Greeks, Romans, Arabs. The castles and fortresses of the times of the Crusades were perfectly preserved.

The desert is a real attraction in Jordan. Many monuments are located in its spaces and allow you to inspect cultural artifacts, while simultaneously studying the life of the Bedouins, admiring the local landscapes. Many places in the kingdom are associated with Christian religious culture, mentioned in biblical tales. They attract many pilgrims.

Beach vacations are possible in the country all year round. The Red Sea coast is built up with hotels, there are excellent opportunities for diving, snorkeling (snorkelling), sea bathing and water sports. One of the major destinations in tourism is visiting spa resorts that use water and mud from the Dead Sea. Many hotels on the coast are equipped with pools with local sea water, which are actively used by vacationers for wellness and beauty treatments. The best time for a tourist trip to Jordan is spring or autumn.

The best hotels at affordable prices.

from 500 rubles / day

What to see in Jordan?

The most interesting and beautiful places, photos and a brief description.

The largest city of Jordan, the capital. It has a long history and many of its monuments, some in the walls of the archaeological museum. Located in close proximity to the Dead and Mediterranean Seas. It has a great economic importance for the country, the center of industry.

A unique ancient building is a city in the rocks. Ancient Petra was the capital of the richest kingdom, collecting tribute from caravans that carried spices. Gradually went bankrupt when trade routes became maritime. A sample of unique architecture, full of all kinds of mysteries. The unique landscape and buildings were repeatedly shot in films. This is Jordan's most popular attraction.

The most impressive building of Petra. Mausoleum completely carved into the rock. It is perfectly preserved, although the facade has the greatest artistic value and expressiveness. Here Spielberg made one of the films about Indiana Jones.

A huge salt lake, water and silt deposits create a healing effect. On the Jordanian coast, there are many resorts that use sea water for medicinal and cosmetic purposes. A popular vacation spot for local people and tourists.

Pompeii of the East - well-preserved remnants of the ancient city. All architectural buildings date back to the times of the Roman Empire. There is an archaeological museum, almost every day a theatrical performance takes place based on Roman military plots, throughout July the city is the site of an art festival. Landmark of Jordan, the second most important after Petra.

An ancient city built to repel military attacks. About five thousand years on this site are traces of civilization. He became famous under the Greeks and thanks to the Greeks. Destroyed by an earthquake. The ruins are diverse: a church, amphitheaters, a forum, part of the buildings has been restored. There is an operating archaeological museum. The hill offers wonderful views of the surroundings.

The remains of the buildings of the Greco-Roman city. They call it the Black Pearl of the desert, as the buildings are made of black basalt - a rarity in ancient architecture. The buildings are well preserved for their age, among them there are two and three-story buildings. A basalt desert begins near the city.

The only seaport and resort of Jordan. Located on the Red Sea coast, the coastline is almost 30 km long. Sandy clean beaches and the wealth of the underwater world make Aqaba a popular resort and diving center. Developed tourist infrastructure, many hotels of different price categories.

The remains of an ancient settlement, which was primarily defensive in nature. Located on a hill above the city, on the hill of Jebel al-Qala'a. Nearby are the ruins of an ancient basilica and the Umayyad Palace Park.

The most significant monument of Roman civilization in the world, one of the most valuable historical monuments in Jordan. A huge, perfectly preserved, amphitheater, carved into the rock. It now regularly hosts city cultural events (concerts, festivals). Capacity 6000 people.

Located on a hill near the Citadel. The collection is significant, represented by monuments of all eras of civilization, starting with the Neolithic. Particularly good are individual collections of sculptures and jewelry.

The desert is grand in area and expressiveness of landscapes. The landscape is uneven: there are mountains, dips, crevices. Reddish sand and other rocks created a bizarre landscape that was repeatedly used by cinema. They filmed "Martian." The place is famous for the preserved rock paintings of ancient people. Now the Bedouins live in the desert.

The famous biblical mountain, the site of the alleged demise of the prophet Moses. In memory of this event, a memorial complex was restored on the top of the mountain, restored by archaeologists. Now there are commemorative signs, a Byzantine church with fragments of ancient mosaics. Popular with pilgrims and tourists.

It falls into the Dead Sea, separates Jordan and Israel. The main waterway of the country. It is repeatedly mentioned in the Bible. It was in the waters of this river that Jesus was baptized. Place of active pilgrimage. On the banks and in the immediate vicinity of them are many historical monuments of different time periods.

Built in 1184, on top of a mountain, to protect local mines. A powerful military building, a real fortress. Forests stretch around the castle, from the upper viewing platforms you can see Jerusalem. The castle has an archaeological museum.

Crusader Castle, located near Petra. Their last bastion in the Holy Land. After the expulsion of the knights fell into decay and gradually collapsed. Many buildings in ruins, on some of the buildings you can see ancient inscriptions. Unique location to enjoy the incredible panorama.

The legendary defensive building at an altitude of about 1000 meters. Multi-storey, inside - a real maze. It is of historical value; in addition, an archaeological museum has been opened on the territory. Around the fortress the city of the same name grew, attractive for tourists.

About 30, well-preserved, buildings for various purposes in the desert. Caravanserais, baths, hunting lodges of the nobility - each of the palaces fulfilled its mission and had the appropriate architecture. In the palace - the former bathhouse, there are murals unique to the Muslim culture, partially restored.

Located on the slopes of the mountains, it includes several geographical zones, with corresponding vegetation in each. The territory is huge, flora and fauna are extremely diverse. Great place for hiking, especially in spring. Mountain biking is available. There are several trails in the reserve, it is better to go with guides. Accommodation options in the reserve are diverse (hotels, camping, guest houses).

Created in the Wadi Mujib gorge, near the Dead Sea. A unique landscape - mountains, gorges, between which the river flows. The reserve creates its own microclimate and many birds live there, there is a diverse vegetation (more than 400 species). For tourists laid routes, there are campsites.

The opportunity to dive with experienced instructors in several diving centers, to choose from. One of the main attractions for tourists in the city. The Red Sea is rich in inhabitants and picturesque reefs. Turtles, octopuses, exotic fish - all can be seen and observed in the natural environment.

There is crystal clear water and good conditions for relaxation. Thanks to the mountains, Aqaba has a special microclimate: you can swim all year round, in the winter months the water temperature does not drop below +22 ° C, in the summer, real heat only occurs in the afternoon.

Temperature sensitive tourists should come to Aqaba in the fall, winter or spring: in the summer it can be too hot.

• Do I need a Jordanian visa to travel around the country at the entrance through Aqaba
• Do I need to get a visa to Jordan when flying to Aqaba through Amman

Search for flights to Amman (the nearest airport to Aqaba)

Transport

Hundreds of yellow private taxis ply the streets and drive tourists and locals; they are all almost the same, apart from the fact that some cars are equipped with air conditioning. It is better to agree on the fare in advance, before boarding.

Minibuses connect Aqaba's residential areas with the city center. Passengers can board and disembark anywhere in the way, stops in Aqaba - on request. The central station is opposite the police office on King Talal st, less than 10 minutes walk from the center (Ayla square, Al-Hussein Bin Ali Mosque).

Aqaba Maps

Weather forecast

Monthly average temperature, ° C day and night, water

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Cuisine and restaurants

The Italian restaurant Casalingo at the Movenpick Resort & Spa Tala Bay (South Beach Road - Tala Bay Area; opening hours: 6:30 p.m. - 11:30 p.m.) with a modern Mediterranean design attracts attention with a wood-burning pizza oven. Casalingo serves traditional Italian dishes, seasonal specialties, excellent pizza and a fine selection of wines. Dishes are prepared by an Italian chef. Visitors can eat on the terrace or in the air-conditioned room.

The Red Sea Grill restaurant at the Movenpick Resort & Residence Aqaba (not to be confused with the first, is located on King Hussein St, P; opening hours: from 19:00 to midnight) is open only during the summer and offers fresh seafood. For example, grilled fish and shellfish in combination with African-Arab cuisine. Add to this a wonderful view of the Gulf of Aqaba from the restaurant terrace.

In the city center you can find takeaway food - hummus, falafel, shawarma.

Alerzal or Al-Erzal (Aqaba Gate complex) is a Lebanese restaurant where you can taste national cuisine and Mezza in combination with seafood and grilled meat. This is the best Lebanese restaurant in Aqaba, which has two rooms - on the water and on land. The specially equipped Harmattan Boat offers an exquisite boat trip for lunch or dinner on the bay, where you can see the beautiful corals of the Red Sea (there is a dive instructor on board).

One of the city’s most famous restaurants is located at The Royal Yacht Club. Here, seafood at prices comparable to Western ones. The service is quick. Open - for dinner only.

Not far from the Yacht Club, beyond McDonald’s, there is an excellent 35 Degrees East (Aqaba longitude), opening only in the afternoon. It serves very good European food, including steaks and seafood. European prices are higher than in other restaurants in Jordan. Also noteworthy is the Syrian Palace Restaurant (Raghadan Street, Hayl al madina, on the right side of the Al Shuala Hotel).

Aqaba is a duty free zone and is partially isolated from the rest of Muslim Jordan. Many shops offer a wide selection of inexpensive alcohol and cigars.

Aqaba beaches

Most of the beaches belong to hotels, the rest are publicly accessible, and mostly locals relax on them. In the northern part of the city, the beaches are sandy, closer to the south - rocky, with coral reefs near the coast.

Aqaba Hotels

The most fashionable hotels in Aqaba, with an international audience and cuisine are Movenpick Resort and Intercontinental. But the resort also has a lot of budget hotels - without much chic and shine, but a clean room and a hearty breakfast are guaranteed.

A little tip that applies to all Aqaba hotels: rooms with a sea view, of course, look more prestigious than with a street view, but since the sea is in the south, it can be very hot from the constant sun in the "sea" room.

9 km from Aqaba, the Tala Bay luxury complex has opened with its own 2 km long beach, private properties, infrastructure and hotels. One of them is already operational - Radisson SAS Tala Bay.

Diving in Aqaba

In Aqaba, there are 6 diving centers offering training according to the standards of the PADI, SSI or BS-AC associations. Underwater visibility averages 35–40 m. During plankton bloom (April-May), visibility can decrease to 10–15 m, but in the height of summer it reaches 50 m and even more.

The Royal Diving Center, the most popular diving center, located 15 km south of the city, has its own sandy beach with one of the most interesting places for diving. The Sea Star Dive Center at Al Qazar Hotel offers beginner training and night dives upon request. Al Morjan Club has showers, a snack bar, equipment rental and a pool; You can get there by taxi or free bus from the diving center at Al Qazar Hotel.

In total, the resort has about 30 noteworthy dive sites, which are easily accessible by boat. Many reefs are very close to the shore, so you can enjoy the underwater world lightly, armed with just a mask and snorkel. Even beginners can find there for themselves an interesting and uncomplicated dive.

Guides in Aqaba

Aqaba Attractions and Attractions

The fortress near the embankment in the city center, archaeological excavations on the hill of Tell al Khalifa, the Aquarium of the Aqaba scientific station, the Museum of Antiquities adjacent to the fort, as well as the museum in the house of Hussein Ben-Ali, great-grandfather of King Hussein.