What to Do in Aqaba, Jordan (if You’ve Already Been to Petra and Wadi Rum!)

Aqaba is the only port city in Jordan, and if you’re on a cruise sailing around Africa or through the Middle East, your ship might just make a stop. Why Aqaba? Well, it just so happens to be a gateway to Petra (78mi/125km away) and Wadi Rum (47mi/75km away)—two incredible destinations that should be on your travel bucket list.

If you’ve already marveled at Petra and cruised through Wadi Rum, Aqaba itself is an interesting destination. It’s home to the world’s oldest purpose built church, vibrant coral reefs and tasty Jordanian cuisine.

Here’s a Guide on What to Do in Aqaba, Jordan if You’ve Already Been to Petra and Wadi Rum

How to Get Into Aqaba:

Your cruise ship may have a shuttle service that will take your from the port to the downtown area. If not, there will likely be cabs available. Hop in a cab, and tell your driver to take you to the McDonalds— all the things in this guide on things to do in Aqaba are in a 2 km radius and walkable from the golden arches.

Let’s dive in!

For History Lovers:

Ruins of Ayla:

Ayla was built in 650 AD, and it was the first Islamic city outside of the Arabian Peninsula.  It served as a stop for pilgrims heading towards the Holy Cities and Mecca, and was commonly referred to as “The Door to Palestine.” (To learn more about Ayla’s history, click HERE).

 The foundations of Ayla remain near the city center, and entry is free. You likely won’t find anyone working—simply walk through the gates and have a wonder at your leisure!

Fourth Century Roman Church:

The Byzantine Period was a time of rapid Christian expansion around the region. Churches were built throughout Jordan, and archaeologists believe they have found the world’s oldest church right in Aqaba. In fact, the Guinness Book of World Records even gives this site the title of “oldest known purpose-built Christian church in world”, with construction occurring between 292-303AD.

 The ruins are free to roam through. And unlike Ayla, there aren’t many information plaques to explain what you are looking at.

Insider Thoughts Thoughts: It’s a bit strange that the alleged oldest church in the world is so unprotected and open. The entry is a broken gate, and visitors are free to touch and explore the rubble at their own leisure

Aqaba Fort, AKA Mamluk Castle 

The Aqaba Fort was first constructed during the Mamluke Sultan Qanswah el-Ghaw reign between 1501-1517AD. The Ottomans took control of the fortress in the 16th century, and it was primarily used as a stop for pilgrims traveling to Mecca. The Ottomas held it until the Arab Revolt of World War 1. Arab forces took over the fortress, and Aqaba was incorporated into Jordan soon after.

Visitors can explore the fort, visit a small museum, and marvel at the 430 ft tall flagpole that’s waving the flag of the Arab Revolt.

For Ocean Lovers:

Relax by the Ocean:

There is a lovely promenade that stretches from Al-Ghandour beach to Al-Hafayer beach that will take you right to the Aqaba Fort. It’s a great spot for people watching. But if you want to go for a swim or lay out in the sun, consider going to a beach club or resort instead. Particularly if you’re a woman. While you will see people lounging around in bikinis on public beaches, it isn’t advised for non-Muslim foreigners. (Berenice beach club comes highly recommended)

 Insider Tip: The promenade is the perfect spot to enjoy a beautiful sunset.

Glass Bottom Boat Tour

Get a glimpse at the wonderful ecosystems that live in the Red Sea  via a glass bottom boat tour. You can book tours ahead of time online, or you can simply walk along the promenade. There are loads of glass bottom boats with eager drivers vying for your business.

Snorkeling/Diving Excursion:

Take it a step further and join the ecosystem below through a snorkeling or diving excursion. For snorkelers, there are plenty of reefs scattered all along the coast, and you can easily find a glass bottom boat tour that includes snorkeling. For divers, there are more than 25 dive sizes in the Awaba Marine Park where you can explore coral gardens and unique ship wrecks.

 The year round warm temperatures, great visibility, and abundance of wildlife make Aqaba a top destination for divers across the world.

For Foodies:

Jordanian cuisine encompasses the flavors of many different cultures across the Middle East. You can enjoy a mezze spread of dips and pita. Or perhaps nosh on a shawarma sandwich as you cruise along the beach. Certainly have a meal at one of the many sit down restaurants to feast on traditional dishes such as Mansaf.  Docked Discoveries has an entire guide on 5 must try eats in Aqaba Jordan, that you can find HERE.

Aqaba, Jordan is an exciting travel destination in of itself. And you’re sure to have a memorable day no matter what you choose to do.