Aqaba, Jordan is an ideal holiday destination for travelers looking for a unique combination of ancient history and modern amenities. Located on the Red Sea in the southern part of the country, Aqaba is the only coastal city in Jordan and is considered to be the gateway to the Middle East. With a population of just over 150,000, Aqaba is a hub of activity and offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy.
The city is home to some of the oldest archaeological sites in the world, including the ruins of the ancient city of Ayla, the Ottoman-era Aqaba Fort, and the world-famous Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Visitors will also find plenty of modern attractions, such as the Aqaba Marine Park, a private beach located on a nearby island, and the Aqaba International Airport.
Aqaba also offers a wide range of water activities, from snorkeling and diving to sailing and fishing. Visitors can also enjoy the variety of shopping and dining options available in the city and its surrounding area. With its unique combination of historical and contemporary attractions, Aqaba is the perfect destination for travelers looking for an unforgettable experience.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Old Town: Located on the north side of Aqaba, the Old Town offers a unique experience with its local markets, traditional shops, and Ottoman-style buildings. It is known for its stunning views of the Red Sea and a variety of eateries.
2. Tala Bay: Tala Bay is a popular resort area located on the southern tip of Aqaba. It offers a selection of luxurious hotels, restaurants, and shops, as well as a private beach.
3. Marsa Zayed: This area is perfect for those looking to experience Aqaba's luxury. It offers a variety of high-end hotels, two golf courses, and a range of restaurants and bars.
4. Aqaba Castle: This historic site is located in the center of the city and provides a great view of the sea. It is a popular tourist destination as it offers guided tours and a great view of the city.
5. Eilat: Located just across the border in Israel, Eilat is a must-visit area for those looking for a little more adventure. It offers a range of beach activities, restaurants, and entertainment.
1. Aqaba Castle: Located atop a hill in the heart of Aqaba, this ancient fortress showcases the rich architectural and cultural heritage of the city. It offers stunning views of the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aqaba and the city itself.
2. Red Sea Beach: Aqaba's waterfront is lined with beautiful white-sand beaches, making it the perfect destination for swimming, snorkelling, and sunbathing.
3. Wadi Rum: This vast desert landscape is a must-see for its stunning sandstone mountains, rock formations, and ancient inscriptions.
4. King Hussein Mosque: Built in the 12th century, this grand mosque is a beautiful example of Islamic architecture.
5. Aqaba Marine Park: This protected area offers a variety of underwater activities such as snorkelling and diving, with a variety of coral reefs and marine life to explore.
1. Mansaf: This traditional dish is a combination of spiced lamb and rice, served with a yogurt-based sauce.
2. Shawarma: A popular street food, Shawarma is a wrap filled with grilled chicken, beef, or lamb, served with tomatoes, pickles, and tahini sauce.
3. Falafel: Crispy falafel balls made with a combination of chickpeas, fava beans, onions, and spices, served with tahini sauce.
4. Macarona B’siniyeh: This traditional pasta dish is made with a tomato-based sauce, ground beef, and a variety of spices.
5. Hummus: This classic Middle Eastern dip is made with chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, and is typically served with pita bread.