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Aqaba Holidays

A coastal city ripe for adventure

Aqaba city breaks may conjure up images of camel rides and desert exploration, but this sun-kissed spot on the Red Sea has plenty to offer beach fans, too. As well as scenic sunbathing opportunities, Jordan’s only coastal city is a diver’s paradise, where sandy shores lead to colourful coral reefs and ethereal sunken wrecks.

Once you’ve explored the aquatic life, there’s a wealth of treasures to discover back on dry land. A wander around the quaint old town, with its archaeological remnants of centuries past, is a delight for history buffs, and the laid-back marina is surrounded by lively falafel stalls and seafood restaurants, making it a haven for those keen for a taste of the Middle East.

Aqaba is also an ideal base from which to explore the other two parts of what is known as Jordan’s Gold Triangle – the architectural wonder that is the city of Petra and the striking, otherworldly landscape of Wadi Rum, where you can enjoy canyoning, trekking and camel rides. But city breaks to Aqaba aren’t just for thrill-seekers. The relative lack of crowds means that families, lone travellers and groups can enjoy its natural wonders, multilayered history and culinary delights at their own pace.

All resorts in Aqaba

Aqaba

Three tips for a top trip

Catch the bus
Both the capital Amman and Petra can be reached by bus from Aqaba for the fraction of a price of a taxi. In soaring temperatures, go for a privately run air-conditioned bus.
Meander through markets
Swing by the Friday night market, Souk by the Sea, to sample authentic cuisine and peruse handcrafted wool rugs, intricate Bedouin jewellery and exotic perfumes from local artisans.
Check the time
The best time to visit religious sites (such as the visually impressive Sharif Al Hussein Bin Ali Mosque) is outside of prayer times and holidays, during the afternoon.

Best attractions to see in Aqaba

    Underwater Museum

    Tanks, helicopters and an ambulance are some of the stranger items awaiting divers at this unusual military museum in Aqaba’s warm waters, alongside beautiful coral and marine life, too.

    Wadi Rum

    The striking red-tinted desert valley of Wadi Rum, where a number of Hollywood films have been made, is just over an hour’s drive from Aqaba.

    Berenice Beach Club

    Splash out on private beach access for sunbathing with views of Egypt’s mountains and easy access to snorkelling over Black Rock and Rainbow Reef.

    Your Aqaba questions, answered

    Jordan is a scorcher in summer, with guaranteed sunshine from May to October. For less intense heat, plan your visit for some time between March and May.

    To eat out in Aqaba is to immerse yourself in Jordan’s multifaceted heritage. Seafood takes centre stage in dishes that include Levantine and Bedouin flavours.

    For a chance of seeing eagle rays, turtles and other marine life, hit the Red Sea in September, October or November when the water temperature is a comfortable 24-27˚C.