It depends on your priorities. If want to sun on the beach or swim, snorkel or dive in the sea--it's worth a few days. Culturally and historically speaking--spend your time seeing things in other places. We based in Aqaba and drove up to Wadi Rum and Petra for a day's sightseeing on our way to Egypt.
1
anonymous
Hi,
I will be heading to Jordan on my way to the final destination. I want to ask you guys if you think Aqaba is worthy of a few of my days? If so, what should I try to see? Thanks a bunch!
2
anonymous
Hello,
Do not expect much from Aqaba! However, I think that any place on this planet is worth seeing! Maybe not all of them are extremely interesting or glamorous, but each has something to offer. I liked the Aquarium at the Marine Science Station and their beaches! The Red Sea is wonderful!
3
monja16
Unless you are a keen diver you will be disappointed with Aqaba. It is much more built up and significantly more expensive than resorts on the Egypt side. Aqaba is basically a port; there are nicer beaches on the stretch towards the Saudi Border, particularly around Tala Bay, but you always have a view of one industrial zone or another. Staying in Aqaba makes sense if you are travelling from the north via Petra and Wadi Rum, as it's only 1 hour from Wadi Rum and well connected with Amman, so it just makes sense for travellers to stay there for a day or two. But if you are after something unique, stick to the Dead Sea.
4
ehazard
Aqaba is worth a couple days. The scuba diving presents some world class diving opportunities. If you are not certified but have been "scuba curious" Aqaba would make an excellent spot to start. The cost to scuba were cheaper here than in the Caribbean and many reefs are in shallow water accessible from the shore. If you're more into snorkeling, the reefs just off shore would provide good spots with lots of coral and fish to see.
After traveling through northern Jordan, the city provides a nice diversity for a dinner menu. Many restaurants serve local seafood with an interesting Jordanian twist to the food. We found this to be a nice break after the Middle Eastern staples in the north.
Aqaba is also a good base to explore Wadi Rum and Petra.
As @bellafernandez says above, all places are worth seeing. The question to ask yourself is what types of activities you'd like to partake in and if Aqaba can satisfy those requests.
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