Indice
Aqaba is a place in the extreme south of Jordan, still untouched by mass tourism and for this reason particularly relaxing, pleasant to live and quiet.
It can become the ideal destination for a seaside holiday, between water sports and trips in the surrounding area. In fact, it represents the only outlet that Jordan has on the Red Sea and is located a short distance from the Wadi Rum desert, from Dana and the splendid Petra.
From Aqaba it is also possible to reach Egypt and Israel.
GOVERNORATE: Aqaba
ALTITUDE: 6 m above sea level
SURFACE: 375 km²
PEOPLE: 148.398
Hotels and where to sleep in Aqaba
What to see in Aqaba
Aqaba Fort
As you approach the Aqaba waterfront, you will see the Jordanian flagpole (which is recognizable even from the Israeli, Egyptian and Saudi coasts!). The flag has the imposing Aqaba Fort as its backdrop. Calligraphic dedications to Allah are engraved on the semi-circular towers and part of the arch is still visible. The fort was built in 1320 and later renovated by the penultimate Mamluk sultan Qansawh al-Ghawni. A corridor leads to an area with a domed ceiling and then to a large courtyard that houses a huge Eucalyptus tree. Until the last century, the Fort was the main stopping point for caravans passing through Aqaba.
The Archaeological Museum
It is located next to the Fort and is housed in a wing of the house of Sheikh Hussein bin Ali, where the great-great-grandfather of the current King of Jordan stayed for six months in 1924, in an attempt to revoke the Anglo-Jordanian treaty signed in 1923. The museum displays objects that belonged to him.
The Bird Observatory
If you are a nature lover (and birds in particular), we recommend that you do not miss a visit to the Bird Observatory because this area is an important point for the migration of a large number of bird species that move between Europe, Asia and Africa! This city, in addition to offering wonderful natural views, allows you to learn about the history of the area, in particular of the Arabian peninsula, in which Aqaba played an important role, just think of the character of Lawrence of Arabia and the famous Battle of Aqaba. Many of the testimonies of its past have been destroyed over the centuries, yet this city still preserves some places of particular interest, which demonstrate its value.
Parti alla scoperta della Giordania!
History of Aqaba
It was among the first Arab cities built on this territory, known as Ayla and of which some archaeological remains have been discovered.
Among the other beauties to see there is also the Fort, or Castle of the Mamluks built during the Crusades. Wandering around the city, furthermore, one cannot help but stop in one of the many souks that reflect the truest and deepest soul of Aqaba.
Many sensational discoveries have been made in this territory, among which there is one of the oldest churches ever built, dating back perhaps to the 4th century and made of mud and bricks. Aqaba is mentioned several times in the Bible linked to King Solomon, the Exodus and the Queen of Sheba.
At the archaeological museum it is possible to retrace the long history of the city where, among other things, there are rich collections of the ancient site of Ayla.
What to do in Aqaba
Snorkeling and boat trips
In Aqaba there are several elegant and comfortable resorts right on the beach, which offer boat trips and snorkeling and diving activities to discover the incredible and varied fauna that characterizes the Red Sea seabed, in addition to the many species of coral that allow tourists to experience different adventures every day.
The market on the sea
This is a large open-air craft market, inaugurated in 2011, which comes to life every Friday evening in the city center. Here you will find local handicrafts from all over the country (soaps, sand bottles, carpets and jewelry).
The sunset
Naturally, another unmissable event for those staying in Aqaba is the sunset over the sea, to admire the sun, which slowly disappears behind the Egyptian mountains.
The beaches of Aqaba
The public beach
The public beach of Aqaba is located near the city center. Here you can immerse yourself 100% in local life and you will find only locals. Especially in spring and summer, Jordanians come to this beach to spend the whole day, complete with chairs and tables, food and hookahs. On the public beach, apart from children, you will not find anyone in a swimsuit, so if you want to swim and sunbathe, we strongly recommend you go to South Beach!
South Beach
South Beach, located about 8 km from the city center, is where you will find the most beautiful and clean beaches in the area. From the center you can reach South Beach with a local taxi (the ride has a fixed cost of 5JD). This is also where you will find most of the resorts, which often have private access to the beach.
Where to eat in Aqaba
Our favorite restaurants in Aqaba are:
- Ali Baba – Located in the city center. Here you can enjoy traditional food and great fresh seafood.
- Ozoz – Here you will find a variety of fresh and local seafood ready to be cooked for you on the spot.
For more details check out our blog post Where to Eat In Jordan.
