Aqaba is a sparkling gem nestled along Jordan’s southern coast, overlooking the vibrant waters of the Red Sea.
With year-round sunshine, rich cultural history, and easy access to some of the Middle East’s most awe-inspiring destinations, it’s no wonder cruise ships from around the world have Aqaba on their itineraries.
From exploring coral reefs to discovering ancient forts and savoring local cuisine, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about making the most of your day—or days—in Aqaba.
A Brief Overview of Aqaba and Its Cruise Port
Aqaba is Jordan’s only coastal city and a major port on the northeastern tip of the Red Sea.
It’s a bustling hub that connects Asia, Africa, and Europe, making it a strategic and historical center of trade for centuries. Today, it’s known for:
- Stunning Coral Reefs and Marine Life: Aqaba is part of the Red Sea’s globally renowned dive circuit, boasting crystal-clear waters, colorful corals, and abundant marine species.
- Gateway to Iconic Sites: Wadi Rum, the sandstone desert where Lawrence of Arabia once roamed, is only about an hour away. Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, is just under two hours by road.
- Culture and Heritage: The city bears traces of its Islamic and Ottoman heritage, seen in everything from architecture to cuisine.
The Aqaba Cruise Port is situated close to the city center, making it convenient to explore on foot or by taxi.
Modern facilities welcome thousands of cruise passengers each year, ensuring you have a comfortable start to your Aqaba adventure.
Port Facilities and Amenities
The Aqaba Cruise Port may be smaller than some other global destinations, but it offers everything you need for a comfortable landing:
- Passenger Terminal: Expect a clean, air-conditioned passenger terminal with restrooms and waiting areas.
- Currency Exchange and ATMs: Jordan’s official currency is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). You’ll find currency exchange counters and ATMs within or just outside the port area.
- Tourist Information Desk: A small desk is usually staffed with English-speaking representatives who can offer maps, brochures, and guidance on local tours.
- Transportation Options: Taxis are the most convenient way to get around. Negotiate the fare beforehand or ensure the driver uses a meter. Some cruise lines also offer shuttle buses into town.
- Souvenir Shops: You may find small stands selling local handicrafts, snacks, or water right by the port exit.
Getting Around in Aqaba
Once you step off your cruise ship, getting around Aqaba is relatively straightforward:
- Taxis: Plentiful around the port. Always clarify if the rate is metered or fixed. If you plan to travel outside Aqaba—such as to Petra or Wadi Rum—arrange a fair rate before setting off.
- Walking: The downtown area is compact and easy to navigate on foot. Stroll along the Corniche (waterfront promenade) and discover local cafés, restaurants, and shops.
- Local Buses: While local buses exist, they may not run on a strict schedule. If you’re adventurous and have ample time, you can catch a ride from central Aqaba to various points around the city.
When to Visit
Aqaba enjoys a desert climate, providing sunshine almost every day of the year:
- Winter (November to February): Mild temperatures around 18–25°C (65–77°F) with cooler evenings. Ideal for hiking in Wadi Rum or exploring Petra without the searing heat.
- Spring (March to May): Pleasant days, warm waters, and fewer crowds make this a popular season.
- Summer (June to August): Temperatures can soar above 35°C (95°F). Diving and water activities are best done early morning or late afternoon.
- Autumn (September to October): Another sweet spot with warm but tolerable weather and excellent diving conditions.
If you’re arriving via cruise, your schedule is mostly set, but understanding the climate can help you plan activities more effectively.
Top Things to Do in Aqaba
Below, you’ll find more than 20 amazing activities and sights to explore in and around Aqaba Cruise Port.
Whether you’re an avid history buff, a foodie, or an outdoors enthusiast, you’ll find plenty here to keep you captivated.
Visit the Aqaba Fort (Mamluk Castle)
Step back in time at this 16th-century fortress, once a crucial defensive post for the region.
Highlights:
- Well-preserved ramparts and architecture.
- Sweeping views of the Red Sea from the fortress walls.
- A small museum inside that showcases historical artifacts.
Explore the Archaeological Museum
Located near the fort, this modest museum displays relics dating back to the 7th century.
Highlights:
- Pottery, coins, and other objects from the Islamic and Ottoman eras.
- Insightful exhibits explaining Aqaba’s role in regional trade.
- A peaceful courtyard to rest and reflect.
Stroll Along the Corniche
The bustling Corniche (waterfront promenade) is a hub for locals and tourists alike.
Highlights:
- Lively street life with vendors selling souvenirs and snacks.
- Panoramic views of the Red Sea and neighboring Israel and Egypt.
- Relaxing benches where you can sit and watch the sunset.
Dive or Snorkel in the Red Sea
Aqaba is famed for its pristine coral reefs. Several dive centers offer trips to reefs teeming with marine life.
Highlights:
- Schools of colorful fish, sea turtles, and sometimes dolphins.
- Underwater wrecks, including a sunken tank and plane turned artificial reef.
- Clear waters with visibility often exceeding 20 meters.
Glass-Bottom Boat Tours
Not a diver but still want to experience the marine world? Hop on a glass-bottom boat.
Highlights:
- Family-friendly option with minimal physical requirements.
- Watch coral reefs and fish without getting wet.
- Often includes stops for swimming or snorkeling.
Experience the Underwater Military Museum
A unique underwater display off the coast of Aqaba features submerged military vehicles and equipment.
Highlights:
- Tanks, troop carriers, and even a helicopter placed as artificial reefs.
- Great for divers of all skill levels.
- A surreal underwater landscape blending history and marine life.
Relax on the Public Beach
A short walk from the port, Aqaba’s public beach is a perfect spot for sunbathing and people-watching.
Highlights:
- Free entry and open to all.
- Local families gather here, offering a glimpse into everyday Jordanian life.
- Umbrella and beach chair rentals available in some areas.
Indulge in Local Cuisine
Jordanian food is rich in flavors, and Aqaba has a vibrant dining scene.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Mansaf: Jordan’s national dish of lamb cooked in a yogurt sauce, served with rice.
- Sayadieh: Spiced fish dish with caramelized onions and rice.
- Fresh Seafood: Caught daily and served at waterfront restaurants.
Shop at the Souk
Aqaba’s traditional market, or souk, is a colorful labyrinth of shops.
Highlights:
- Spices, teas, and sweets unique to the region.
- Handicrafts, textiles, and Bedouin jewelry.
- The chance to haggle and practice your bargaining skills.
Sample Street Food
For a quick snack, street vendors in Aqaba don’t disappoint.
Favorites:
- Falafel Sandwiches: Crispy chickpea balls in pita bread.
- Shawarma: Marinated meat, either chicken or lamb, wrapped in flatbread.
- Knafeh: A sweet, cheesy pastry soaked in sugar syrup.
Visit the Great Arab Revolt Plaza
A modern plaza commemorating the 1916 Arab Revolt, led by Sherif Hussein bin Ali.
Highlights:
- A towering flagpole displaying the Arab Revolt Flag.
- Informative plaques and statues narrating the significance of the revolt.
- A scenic spot for photographs, especially at dusk.
Tour the Oldest Church in the World (Ayla Archaeological Site)
The ancient city of Ayla once stood where Aqaba stands now, and evidence suggests it was home to one of the earliest churches.
Highlights:
- Ruins believed to date back to the 3rd–4th century AD.
- Foundations of what might be the world’s oldest purpose-built Christian church.
- A historical perspective on the region’s multicultural roots.
Unwind at a Beach Resort
If you have time, consider spending a day pass at one of Aqaba’s upscale beach resorts.
Highlights:
- Private beaches with plush loungers and umbrellas.
- Swimming pools, spas, and on-site restaurants for a relaxing day.
- Watersports like jet skiing, parasailing, or stand-up paddleboarding.
Meet Local Marine Life at the Aqaba Aquarium (Marine Science Station)
For a more educational perspective on Red Sea biodiversity, visit the small but informative aquarium.
Highlights:
- Tanks displaying local fish, coral, and other marine species.
- A glimpse into conservation efforts in the Red Sea.
- Ideal for families with younger children.
Sail on a Sunset Cruise
Capture the romance of the Red Sea with an evening sail.
Highlights:
- Watching the sun dip behind the desert mountains.
- Often includes dinner or refreshments onboard.
- Potential to spot dolphins in the warm glow of sunset.
Take a Camel Ride on the Beach
Embrace your inner adventurer with a camel ride along the shore.
Highlights:
- A taste of Bedouin tradition.
- Great photo opportunities against the backdrop of the turquoise sea.
- Short and family-friendly excursions available near the main beach areas.
Try Desert Off-Roading
Combine a beach visit with a thrilling ride on the nearby dunes.
Highlights:
- Four-wheel drives or ATVs that tackle desert terrain.
- Spectacular views of the mountains bordering Aqaba.
- Possible visits to local Bedouin camps for tea.
Discover Aqaba’s Coffee Culture
Jordanian coffee, known as gahwa, is a staple of Bedouin hospitality.
Highlights:
- Sipping strong, spiced coffee often flavored with cardamom.
- Engaging with locals who are proud of their coffee traditions.
- Paired with sweet dates or small Arabic sweets.
Visit the Royal Yacht Club
Aqaba’s Royal Yacht Club is an excellent spot to dine or simply admire the line of boats along the pier.
Highlights:
- Chic restaurants and bars overlooking the marina.
- Occasional events and gatherings, especially in the high season.
- Perfect for an upscale evening out.
Treat Yourself at a Hammam (Turkish Bath)
After hours of exploring, soothe your muscles in a traditional hammam.
Highlights:
- Steam rooms, hot stone massage, and invigorating scrubs.
- A rejuvenating cultural experience blending Arabic and Ottoman traditions.
- Many hammams cater to both men and women, though some have separate timings.
Experience a Bedouin Camp Overnight (If Time Permits)
If your schedule allows an overnight excursion, a short drive into the desert leads to an unforgettable stay.
Highlights:
- Traditional Bedouin tents in Wadi Rum or nearby deserts.
- Starlit skies, campfire cooking, and Bedouin music.
- Sunrise camel rides or hot air balloon trips in Wadi Rum.
Take a Short Day Trip to Petra
Petra, one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites, is within a two-hour drive from Aqaba.
Highlights:
- The Siq (a narrow canyon) leading to the breathtaking Treasury.
- Ancient tombs, temples, and a colonnaded street that reveal Nabatean civilization.
- Best experienced with a licensed guide for historical context.
Discover Wadi Rum’s Desert Landscapes
If Petra isn’t on your agenda, consider the closer desert marvel of Wadi Rum.
Highlights:
- Towering sandstone mountains often referred to as the “Valley of the Moon.”
- Jeep safaris, rock climbing, and guided hikes.
- Film buffs will recognize the iconic scenery from movies like “Lawrence of Arabia” and “The Martian.”
(That’s well over 20 activities to choose from, and we’re not done yet!)
Local Dining and Cuisine
Aqaba’s culinary scene merges fresh seafood with traditional Jordanian and broader Middle Eastern dishes. Beyond the must-try specialties mentioned earlier, you can explore:
- Mezze Platters: Small plates of hummus, baba ghanoush, tabbouleh, and stuffed grape leaves. Ideal for sharing.
- Zarb: A Bedouin-style barbecue where meat and vegetables are slow-cooked in an underground pit.
- Jordanian Sweets: Besides knafeh, try basbousa (semolina cake) or ma’amoul (date-filled cookies).
Many restaurants offer outdoor seating so you can savor your meal with views of the Red Sea. Don’t shy away from local joints; they often serve some of the most authentic and affordable fare.
What to Pack and Practical Tips
- Comfortable Footwear: Whether you’re walking around the Souk or hiking in Wadi Rum, sturdy shoes are essential.
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat are musts in Aqaba’s sunny climate.
- Conservative Clothing: Jordan is a Muslim-majority country. While Aqaba is relatively liberal, dressing modestly is respectful, especially in public areas and religious sites.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated, and consider refilling a bottle to reduce plastic waste.
- Local Customs: Greetings typically involve a handshake or a gentle nod. If you’re unsure about local etiquette, observe or ask.
- Language: Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Day Trips and Excursions
If you have more than a day in Aqaba or arrive early, consider these extended trips:
- Petra: As detailed, a two-hour drive away. Spend at least four to five hours to see major highlights.
- Wadi Rum: An hour away, perfect for desert safaris, camping, or just a half-day jeep tour.
- Dead Sea: About three-and-a-half hours from Aqaba, famous for its mineral-rich waters and buoyancy.
Many cruise passengers book shore excursions directly with their cruise line or local tour operators. If your time in port is limited, ensure you choose an excursion that fits your schedule to avoid missing your ship’s departure.
Cultural Etiquette
Jordanian society is welcoming and hospitable, but there are a few pointers to keep in mind:
- Greetings: “As-salamu alaykum” (“Peace be upon you”) is a common greeting. You can respond with “Wa alaykum as-salam.”
- Modest Dress: In the city of Aqaba, beach attire is fine along the shore, but cover up when moving beyond the waterfront.
- Photography: Always ask permission before taking photos of locals, especially women.
- Ramadan: During the holy month of Ramadan, drinking or eating in public during daylight is discouraged unless you’re in designated tourist areas or hotels.
A friendly smile goes a long way, and Jordanians are generally happy to help travelers navigate cultural nuances.
Shopping and Souvenirs
Aqaba’s Souk and various shops offer plenty of souvenirs to bring home:
- Traditional Handicrafts: Bedouin rugs, embroidered textiles, and handcrafted silver jewelry.
- Spices and Teas: Perfect for re-creating Middle Eastern flavors back home.
- Dead Sea Products: While the Dead Sea is a few hours away, you can still find locally sourced salts, mud masks, and skincare items.
- Dates and Sweets: A delicious (and long-lasting) gift option for friends and family.
Don’t be shy to haggle in local markets; it’s part of the shopping tradition. Start by offering a price lower than what’s stated, then meet in the middle for a fair deal.
Staying Connected
Most modern cafés, restaurants, and hotels in Aqaba offer free Wi-Fi, and some public areas near the Corniche may also provide limited connection.
For better connectivity, you can buy a local SIM card from the airport or downtown shops. Major providers include Zain, Orange, and Umniah, offering short-term data packages ideal for travelers.
Final Thoughts
Aqaba Cruise Port is much more than just a stopping point—it’s a gateway to a world of discovery. Whether you dive into the crystalline Red Sea, wander through ancient ruins, or sample the aromatic Jordanian dishes that fill the city’s restaurants, you’ll leave Aqaba with your senses ignited and your curiosity rewarded.
The city’s unique blend of laid-back coastal charm, desert adventure, and historical intrigue makes it a highlight of any Middle Eastern cruise. Beyond the bustling Souk and lively waterfront, you’ll find echoes of ancient civilizations and the unbreakable spirit of the local people.
Aqaba is, at its heart, a place of convergence—of trade routes, cultures, and landscapes. From here, you can stand on Jordanian soil while gazing across the sea at three other countries, setting the stage for an unforgettable cultural and natural experience. Your day might begin with a dawn dive among coral reefs, continue with a feast of fresh fish, and end under starry desert skies or in the glow of a vibrant downtown café.
As you plan and embark on your Aqaba adventure, keep your mind open and your camera at the ready. Every corner reveals a tale—be it told by ancient fortress walls, swirling desert sands, or the welcoming smiles of the local community.
Welcome to Aqaba, the Red Sea’s radiant jewel and your launchpad to some of the world’s most mesmerizing marvels. May your time here be filled with discovery, delight, and desert dreams—safe travels and happy exploring!
