The multicultural city of Amman has been inhabited by many civilisations through its long history and is ideal for exploring traditions of the Middle East. To dig deeper into the history of the region, we recommend visiting some of the many galleries and museums, as well as the Neolithic settlements and Bronze Age tombs. For those looking to buy local produce and traditional handicrafts, head to the souks, dazzling with an array of handmade jewellery, whilst the modern-day boutiques juxtapose them.

The desert castles of Qasr Amra, Qasr El Azraq and Qasr Kharaneh were built in the 7th and 8th centuries under the Umayyad dynasty. There are many theories behind the use of these buildings - from serving as fortresses, to Bedouin meeting places and hunting lodges. The castles display beautiful samples of frescoes and bas-reliefs in various states of preservation.

The Roman city of Jerash is one of the most important and best-preserved Roman sites in the area. The local guide will take you through the site to see the forums, theatres and colonnades. Highlights include the archway dedicated to the emperor Hadrian, and some superb mosaic church floors.

The nearby Roman- Hellenistic ruins of Umm Qais sit atop a hill and is said to be the site of the famous miracle of the Gadarene swine, where Jesus removed demons from two men and transferred them to a herd of pigs. Here you can enjoy spectacular views of the Jordan Valley and Sea of Galilee.

The Greek Orthodox Church of Saint George at Madaba, is home to the 6th century map of Jerusalem and the Holy Land, made entirely from mosaic – 2 million pieces of local stone, displaying towns, villages, hills and valleys. Only rediscovered in 1894, it has since been brilliantly restored.

Mount Nebo is a significant site in Jordan. Step back in time and discover the remains of a church and monastery at the highest part of the mountain, dating back to the 4th century. The church has a typical basilica design and features a beautiful mosaic-covered floor. Mount Nebo also features a Cross Serpentine sculpture, symbolising a serpent and Christ’s crucifixion, as well as offering views of Jordan’s surrounding landscape.

Kerak Castle, sitting 900 metres above sea level, showcases Crusader masonry and Arab work in limestone. Tunnels and passageways await the brave to wander through them.

Given the popularity among foreign visitors today, it is hard to believe Petra remained forgotten by the outside world until 1812, when it was re-discovered by the Swiss explorer, Johann Burckhardt. Imagine his emotions when, after being led down the twisting, narrow defile deep in the desert, he first set eyes on the finely sculpted tombs and temples of the Nabataean kings who ruled here in the 3rd century BC.

Hollowed by hand from the sandstone cliffs, the structures were severely damaged by an earthquake in Roman times, and later squatted by local Bedouins, whose descendants nowadays ferry visitors to the site by camel.

The real highlight of visits to Petra today is the Night Walk when you can savour the Treasury’s ancient stonework by the light of flickering flames. The Siq is lit with thousands of candles to guide you as you wind your way slowly down to the treasury. Here you can enjoy a cup of Bedouin tea and listen to traditional music before wandering back down the candlelit pathway.

Your tour takes you next to the natural landscapes of Wadi Rum, home to monolithic rocks, some of which reach 1,750 metres high, water holes, and canyons. The vast expanse of land is tranquil, unspoilt by modern development, and is inhabited by the Bedouins who maintain a nomadic lifestyle.

The resort of Aqaba is often overlooked by tourists and is, therefore, a quieter destination to enjoy. The friendly and welcoming locals create a positive atmosphere; relax in the cafes or sandy beaches and watch their world go by. The Red Sea provides visitors with snorkelling and diving opportunities – it is home to a fascinating array of coral and marine life, including sea turtles and dolphins. Boat trips are also available to view the sea life for those wishing to explore above sea level.

At 400m below sea level, The Dead Sea is the lowest point on Earth, and one of the most spectacular natural and spiritual landscapes in the world. Spend time floating in the therapeutic waters, whose high content of salt and minerals is world renowned for its health benefits.

More than 20 churches, caves and baptismal pools have been excavated at Wadi Kharrar on the Jordan side of the Jordan River. It is believed that the area was the site of Bethany Beyond the Jordan, where John the Baptist lived and where he baptised Jesus.

It has only been since 1996 that it has been possible to unearth these Roman and Byzantine discoveries, as fighting between Jordan and Israel did not cease until 1994. In recent years a new road, visitors' centre and walkways have been put in place, making it easier to visit this sacred site.

Several new churches are also being built on the site, with the golden dome of the Greek Orthodox Church of St John the Baptist instantly recognisable. Other associations of the area with the Bible include Joshua crossing the river with the Israelites to the Promised Land; Elijah being taken up to heaven on a chariot of fire; and Jesus retreating to Bethany Beyond the Jordan when he was threatened with stoning in Jerusalem.

Start todays sightseeing with a drive to Mount of Olives, from which Jesus ascended to heaven after his resurrection. From the top you will have magnificent views out over ancient and modern Jerusalem. Visit the Holy Shrine and walk down the ‘Palm Sunday Road’ to the Chapel of Dominus Flevit, the Garden of Gethsemane and The Church of All Nations, where Jesus prayed on the night of his betrayal. Next you will enter the walled city of Jerusalem visiting the Pools of Bethesda and walk along the Via Dolorosa, following the 14 Stations of the Cross from Pilate's Judgement Hall to the empty tomb in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Finally visit the last standing remnant of the ancient Temple at the Western (Wailing) Wall and visit some of the exciting archaeological sites in and around the Old City.

The Nativity Circle of Bethlehem starts with Manger Square, perhaps the city’s most important square, named after the manger Jesus was born in, and home to the Church of the Nativity, one of the world’s oldest-standing churches still functioning to this day. Next visit the Grotto of the Nativity, a cave located under the Church, which according to Christian tradition, is the place where Jesus was born, the exact spot marked by a 14-pointed star of silver set into the floor. Proceed to the main Basilica of the Nativity, designed in the typical Roman-style Basilica and constructed on the ruins of its predecessor in 565 AD. After passing the Armenian Chapel of the Kings, tour the Catholic Church of St. Catherine, adjoining the Basilica of the Nativity.

Your last stop in your tour of Bethlehem, before returning to Jerusalem to end the day, will be a beautiful overview of the Shepherds’ Fields and the exquisite Church of the Shepherds’ Fields.