Filled with extensive history dating back to thousands of years ago coupled with different biblical references and a beautiful culture, Jordan is home to many incredible sites that offer visitors immensely unique and memorable experiences.

From the Baptism Site where Jesus Christ is believed to have been baptized by John the Baptist and the Dead Sea, which is the lowest point on earth to the historic city of Madaba, Jordan is characterized by its historic and religiously significant places that are certainly worth visiting during a trip to the kingdom.

JTBNA has rounded up five of the top places that make for the perfect three-day itinerary in Jordan.

1. Bethany Beyond the Jordan, The Baptism Site of Jesus Christ

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site and situated in the Jordan Valley near the Dead Sea, Bethany Beyond the Jordan is the site where John the Baptist is believed to have baptized Jesus Christ. Additionally, near the Baptism Site sits Jabal Mar-Elias, or Elijah’s Hill, which is considered to be the place where the prophet Elijah ascended to heaven, adding further significance to the location. Located a short drive from Jordan’s capital city of Amman, visitors can easily plan a day-trip to the Baptism Site where they spend several hours walking around the site, exploring its features, and learning about its importance. Visitors can also choose and arrange to be baptized at the site.

2. The Dead Sea
Known as the lowest point on earth, the Dead Sea in Jordan is a natural wonder on its own. The sea is an extremely salty, warm, and smooth body of water that is filled with a combination of rich minerals, including magnesium, sodium, and potassium. It also consists of rich, black, and mineral-infused mud that guests can rub all over their bodies. The mud is renowned for its ability to reduce skin impurities, help improve psoriasis, treat acne, and remove dead skin cells, leaving guests with healthier and more radiant skin. Additionally, the Dead Sea is a sacred site in the Christian religion. Many stories in the holy Bible’s old testament occurred in the Dead Sea, which is known in the Bible as the “Sea of Araba” or the “Sea Salt.” Located close to Bethany Beyond the Jordan, visitors can plan to visit both the Dead Sea and the Baptism Site in the same day.

3. Madaba

Commonly referred to as the “city of mosaics,” Madaba is home to some of the most beautiful and oldest existing mosaics. The city is best known for its incredible Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics that date back to thousands of years ago. Specifically, it hosts the magnificent and oldest surviving mosaic map of the Holy Land that was discovered in 1884. The map consists of millions of pieces of vivid and colorful stone, depicting hills, valleys, and villages of Jerusalem during the sixth-century. The mosaic map is currently located at Madaba’s Greek Orthodox church of St. George. Many other stunning and historic mosaics are also located throughout Madaba at different churches and sites that guests can visit and learn about. Located only a 40-minute drive from Amman, visitors can plan to spend a morning exploring Madaba during their trip.

4. Mount Nebo
Commonly referred to as holy place in Christianity, the town of Mount Nebo is steeped in biblical references and historic architectural remains. Mount Nebo is believed to be the place where Moses was shown the Holy Land as well as where he died. The Bible states, “Then Moses went up from the plains of Moab to Mount Nebo, the headland of Pisgah, across from Jericho, and the Lord showed him all the land.” — (Deuteronomy 34:1.) At over 700 meters above sea level, Mount Nebo offers stunning panoramic views of the Holy Land. It also hosts incredible archeological remains, well-preserved Byzantine mosaics, and the 4^th-century Moses Memorial Church, which was built in memory of Moses and sits on the top of Mount Nebo. Located near the city of Madaba, travelers to Jordan can plan to visit both Mount Nebo and Madaba in the same day, spending time being immersed in stimulating art, history, and religion.

5. Amman
Jordan’s capital city of Amman is one of the most vibrant and modern Arab cities offering various cultural experiences, an impressive arts scene, and a lively atmosphere. For example, guests can enjoy a variety of traditional Jordanian home-made dishes at the charming restaurant, Sufra. They can also stroll through the streets of the capital’s bustling downtown area, Jabal Amman and enjoy stunning views of the city at local cafes, such as Books at Café or Wild Jordan. Those who love art can visit art galleries such as Wadi Finan Art Gallery and Darat Al Funun that displays artworks of Jordanian and regional artists, and hosts various workshops, film screenings, and cultural events. Visitors can spend an entire day exploring all that Amman has to offer and can either start or end their trip in the capital.