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Arrive in Amman and start your exploration at the Amman Citadel, perched on Jabal al-Qala’a. As the afternoon sun casts long shadows over the ancient Roman, Byzantine, and Umayyad ruins, you’ll feel transported through epochs. The Temple of Hercules stands as a majestic sentinel, while the Jordan Archaeological Museum offers intimate insights into the archeological wealth of the region. Allow at least two hours here to fully absorb the panoramic views of Amman’s whitewashed buildings spread below, especially remarkable during December’s crisp air when contrasts are sharp and clear. Walking down from the Citadel, make your way toward the Roman Theatre nestled in the heart of downtown Amman. This impeccably preserved 2nd-century structure still hosts performances and offers a perfect spot to sit and reflect on the city’s layered history.

After the Roman Theatre, explore the bustling souks nearby, especially Souk Jara if you happen upon a Friday, where vendors offer handcrafted jewelry, textiles, and spices. Even on weekdays, local markets brim with life—sample fresh za'atar-stuffed manakish or sip on rich Arabic coffee amidst friendly vendor chatter. As twilight approaches, stroll through Rainbow Street, a lively thoroughfare dotted with boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafés that shimmer with festive lights. Here, savor a traditional Jordanian dinner at Sufra Restaurant to enjoy authentic flavors in a warm, intimate setting, the perfect kickoff to your adventure.

Cap off your evening with a gentle walk along the hills around Jabal Amman, enjoying the city’s glow from spots like the Wild Jordan Centre, where locals and travelers mingle amidst sustainable crafts and organic teas. December evenings in Amman carry a cool, refreshing bite, so layering up will enhance your comfort as the city lights shimmer below.

Begin your day early from Amman with a scenic 3-hour drive south to Wadi Musa, the gateway town to Petra. Arriving just as the gates open, enter through the Siq, a slender gorge framed by towering cliffs; the cool December morning air sharpens every color and shadow, making this iconic approach even more magical. As you emerge suddenly upon the Treasury façade, its detailed carvings stand radiant against the low sun, a breath-stealing moment that lingers. Spend ample time here to capture the grandeur from multiple angles, then proceed to the Street of Facades, where rock-cut tombs reveal the Nabatean’s artistry up close.

Venture further to the Royal Tombs and climb the ancient pathways leading to the Monastery (Ad-Deir). The hike rewards you with breathtaking views across the vast valley below and the sweeping canyons, a powerful reminder of Petra’s setting as both a fortress and spiritual city. December’s cooler temperatures make this hike more comfortable, but be sure to wear sturdy footwear and carry water. Midday, consider lunch at the Basin Restaurant nestled near the visitor center, enjoying local Bedouin dishes that provide both warmth and flavor to sustain your journey.

In the afternoon, explore lesser-traveled paths such as the High Place of Sacrifice, where ritual altars and panoramic cliffs give insight into Nabatean religious life, or the Petra Museum to connect deeper with the site’s history through vivid exhibits. As the sun begins its descent, moments of quiet reflection amid Petra’s rose-hued canyons create an unforgettable close to this day steeped in wonder.

Depart from Petra early to drive approximately 1.5 hours to Wadi Rum village. Upon arrival, meet your Bedouin guide who will welcome you into their world steeped in tradition. Climb into an open jeep for a dynamic safari through towering sandstone arches, vast red sand valleys, and narrow gorges sculpted by wind and time. Each stop offers ethereal photo opportunities, such as the iconic Seven Pillars of Wisdom, named after T.E. Lawrence's memoir, and natural rock bridges that frame vast desert panoramas. The clear December skies enhance the visibility and temperatures are ideal for exploration, cool but comfortable under the sun’s warmth.

Pause midday at a Bedouin camp where you’ll enjoy traditional tea brewed over an open flame alongside tales of desert life and hospitality. Sample freshly baked bread and aromatic herbal teas that offer an authentic taste of Bedouin culture. Following lunch, explore on foot the dramatic Sand Dunes or take a short hike up Jebel Umm ad Dami, Jordan’s highest peak, to soak in unparalleled desert vistas stretching into the horizon.

As sunset approaches, find a quiet spot to marvel at the desert’s color transformation — the sand shifts from warm ochres to deep rusts under the dying light. In the evening, return to camp for a star-studded night under the desert sky, warmed by a campfire and the intimate atmosphere of Bedouin stories and music. December nights are cool, so cozy up with blankets offered by your hosts, feeling the desert’s timeless embrace.

After a scenic 1.5-hour drive northwest from Wadi Rum, arrive at one of the Dead Sea’s renowned resorts such as the Kempinski Ishtar or the Mövenpick Resort, where luxurious amenities meet unparalleled natural surroundings. Begin your day floating effortlessly in the famously salty waters. The high mineral concentration means you’ll easily drift on the surface without a care, a playful and calming experience that invites laughter and relaxation alike. Take your time to sip fresh citrus drinks from the poolside bar, marveling at the expansive desert hills that meet the placid sea.

Next, coat yourself in the therapeutic Dead Sea mud, thick and rich with minerals renowned for their skincare benefits. Apply the dark mud generously and let it dry while enjoying the gentle warmth of the winter sun. After rinsing off in neat showers designed for this purpose, you’ll feel refreshed, your skin glowing with renewed softness. If time allows, indulge further with spa treatments offered by your resort, such as sulfur wraps or massages that use Dead Sea salts and oils, creating a holistic wellness retreat experience perfect for relaxing tired muscles from your adventurous journey.

Before sunset, take a gentle walk along the shoreline or visit the nearby Mujib Nature Reserve visitor center, where short hikes along the canyon trails offer winter-friendly terrain and scenic views of the Dead Sea basin. End your day with a sunset cocktail at the resort terrace, watching the sky deepen into hues of rose and lavender mirrored in the still waters below.

Set off early from the Dead Sea and enjoy a 1.5 to 2-hour drive northward to Jerash. Upon arrival, immerse yourself immediately in the immense scale of the ruins, starting at the impressive Hadrian’s Arch which marks your ceremonial entrance into the city. Wander through the colonnaded streets lined by towering Ionic columns where the sunlight filters through the columns, casting intricate shadows along the marble paving. Imagine vibrant markets and Roman citizens traversing these avenues as you explore the sprawling Forum and the ornate temples dedicated to Artemis and Zeus.

Pay special attention to the South and North Theaters, still echoing with the spirit of performances and speeches dating back two millennia. Climbing the steps to the top offers a unique perspective of Jerash’s urban planning and the surrounding Jordanian landscape. December’s cool weather is ideal for such exploration, making it easy to spend several hours wandering without fatigue. After your archaeological immersion, enjoy a traditional lunch in Jerash town, sampling local favorites like mansaf and freshly baked flatbread before returning south to Amman via a scenic route.

If time allows upon returning to Amman, consider a sunset visit to the King Abdullah Mosque, a striking blue-domed modern landmark blending Islamic architectural elements with Jordanian artistry, offering a peaceful end to a day rich in history.

Drive from Amman approximately 45 minutes south to Madaba, a town celebrated for its Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics. Your first stop is the Church of St. George, home to the world’s oldest surviving mosaic map of the Holy Land, dating back to the 6th century. Standing above the detailed rendition of Jerusalem and surrounding regions, you feel a deep connection to the spiritual and artistic heritage that has been meticulously preserved. Take your time to soak in the vivid colors and symbols that reveal centuries of history frozen in stone.

From the church, stroll the charming streets of Madaba, visiting artisan workshops where local craftsmen carefully restore mosaics or create new pieces using traditional techniques. Engage warmly with these masters who welcome conversation, many eager to share stories about the significance of their craft. For lunch, delight in a meal at Haret Jdoudna—a stunning restaurant set in an old stone house where you can savor mezze and freshness of Jordanian flavors in a beautifully atmospheric courtyard.

Afterward, venture a short drive to Mount Nebo, just outside Madaba, to stand at the place where Moses is believed to have glimpsed the Promised Land. The crisp air and sweeping vistas across the Jordan Valley and Dead Sea basin offer a contemplative moment perfect for couples seeking a shared, profound experience. Returning to Madaba as twilight falls, enjoy a quiet walk illuminated by warm street lamps, embracing the peaceful ambiance of this mosaic city.

Begin your morning exploring Al-Balad, Amman’s Old Downtown district, where colorful street art adorns walls and local artisans create and sell unique crafts. Visit Darat al Funun, a renowned art foundation set in traditional houses on Jabal al-Wala, where you can view rotating exhibits of contemporary Arab artists that challenge and inspire, igniting conversations about identity and tradition.

From there, take a relaxed walk to the neighboring Jabal Amman area, where galleries such as the Nabad Art Gallery blend local heritage with modern aesthetics. Alongside, visit artisan shops for last-minute souvenirs, including handwoven textiles and ceramics. Pause for lunch at Hashem Restaurant, an iconic local eatery famed for its falafel, hummus, and freshly squeezed juices, offering an authentic taste of local flavors in a lively setting.

In the afternoon, visit the Royal Automobile Museum to marvel at a collection spanning antique vehicles to modern cars that tell the story of Jordan’s royal history and development. Wrap up your trip with a special dinner at Fakhreldin Restaurant, where refined Levantine dishes are served in an elegant garden setting, perfect for a romantic evening. Savor dishes such as makloubeh and musakhan while recounting the adventures of your week over a glass of Jordanian wine or mocktail, closing your Jordanian chapter in style.