The lands between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea represent humanity’s most concentrated spiritual geography—home to Judaism’s holiest sites, the places where Jesus walked and was crucified, and the sacred spaces of Islam. For history enthusiasts and spiritual seekers alike, a journey through Israel and Jordan offers something no other destination can: the chance to walk through three thousand years of living faith. This comprehensive guide provides Chinese travelers with a complete 10-day itinerary and detailed budget breakdown for exploring these remarkable lands.
Visa Requirements and Entry Procedures
Entering Israel
Chinese passport holders must obtain a visa before arriving in Israel—neither visa-on-arrival nor visa-free entry is available for Chinese citizens. The B-2 tourist visa can be applied for at the Israeli consulates in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, or Chengdu, with a standard processing time of 5-10 business days. The visa fee is approximately 170 RMB for a single entry, with higher fees for multiple entries. For those holding valid US or Schengen visas, Israel has offered an electronic application pathway since 2024 that allows online submission without an in-person consulate visit, significantly streamlining the process.
One important practical note for dual-country itineraries: travelers entering Israel via Jordan’s Allenby Bridge crossing (also known as King Hussein Bridge) should ensure they have all required documentation ready for border inspection. Israeli and Jordanian border procedures can take 2-4 hours depending on daily traffic, and the crossing operates Sunday through Thursday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with shortened hours on Fridays and Saturdays.
Jordanian Entry Options
Jordan offers visa-on-arrival for Chinese passport holders at all major border crossings and airports. The single-entry visa costs approximately 40 Jordanian Dinar (JOD), roughly equivalent to 56 USD at current exchange rates. However, the most cost-effective option is the Jordan Pass, a combined entry ticket and tourist pass available in 7-day (70 JOD / ~99 USD) and 14-day (75 JOD / ~106 USD) versions. The Jordan Pass covers admission to over 20 attractions, including Petra itself (which alone costs 70-80 USD for single entry), the Wadi Rum protected area, Petra Museum, and numerous other sites. For travelers spending three or more days in Jordan, the Jordan Pass essentially pays for itself on Petra alone. The pass also simplifies border crossing procedures, as presentation of the Jordan Pass at immigration often speeds up processing.
International Flight Options and Arrival Logistics
Routes from China to Israel and Jordan
Travelers have two primary routing strategies: direct flights to Tel Aviv or connecting flights to Amman. Hainan Airlines and Air China have operated direct routes from Beijing to Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport (TLV), with flight times of approximately 11-12 hours. However, air routes to and from Israel can be subject to sudden changes based on geopolitical circumstances, so checking real-time availability on aggregators like KAYAK or Kiwi.com before booking is essential.
For Jordan’s capital, Royal Jordanian Airlines offers scheduled service from Beijing and Guangzhou, while carriers like Emirates and Qatar Airways provide competitive connecting options via Dubai or Doha. These routes typically take 14-16 hours total but can offer significant savings—round-trip economy tickets often range from 4,500-6,500 RMB in low season (May-September) and 8,000-12,000 RMB during peak season (October through March, which coincides with the most comfortable weather window).
Airport Transfers
Upon landing at Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport (TLV), the Israel Railway provides direct train service to central Tel Aviv every 30 minutes. The airport express train takes approximately 20 minutes to reach Tel Aviv Savidor Central Station, with tickets costing approximately 13.5 ILS (roughly 25 RMB). Taxis or ride-hailing services like Gett to central Tel Aviv typically cost 150-200 ILS (approximately 270-360 RMB); confirming the fare before departure is advisable to avoid unnecessary disputes.
At Amman’s Queen Alia International Airport (AMM), airport buses operate to the North Bus Station in central Amman for approximately 3 JOD (about 28 RMB), with a journey time of 45 minutes to 1 hour. Official airport taxis to central Amman cost approximately 20-25 JOD (roughly 190-240 RMB)—always use the designated taxi queue inside the terminal arrivals area and agree on the fare before starting the journey.
Day-by-Day Itinerary and Budget Breakdown
The following 10-day itinerary covers the essential religious and historical sites of both countries, with per-person costs calculated based on two travelers sharing accommodation in standard three to four-star hotels.
Days 1-3: Jerusalem
Day 1 begins with arrival in Jerusalem, either from Amman via the Allenby Bridge crossing (approximately 1.5 hours’ transfer plus border processing time) or from Tel Aviv (approximately 1 hour by shared taxi or bus). After checking into a hotel near the Old City, the afternoon is best spent on the Mount of Olives, which offers the most complete panoramic view of Jerusalem’s Old City and the Dome of the Rock. The Mount of Olives is free to visit and open throughout the day—arriving in late afternoon allows time to photograph the city bathed in the golden light of sunset, an experience that has inspired pilgrims for centuries.
Day 2 is dedicated to the Old City’s most significant sites. Enter through Lion’s Gate (also called St. Stephen’s Gate) and proceed to the Temple Mount (Har al-Aqsa to Muslims), the third holiest site in Islam and the location of the iconic Dome of the Rock. Non-Muslim visitors have limited access windows, typically specific hours each morning; checking current schedules before your visit is essential. The exterior of the Dome of the Rock is visible without special permission, and the sight of its magnificent golden dome reflecting the Mediterranean sun is unforgettable.
The Western Wall (Kotel), just below the Temple Mount’s western slope, is the most sacred site in Judaism. The plaza is open 24 hours and free to visit; men should be aware that Jewish head coverings (kippot) are available at the entrance for those who need one. The Western Wall Tunnels, which explore the underground foundations of the Temple Mount and ancient Herodian-era street levels, offer extraordinary insight into the engineering of Herod’s Temple. Guided tunnel tours cost approximately 45 ILS (about 82 RMB) per person and are strongly recommended for understanding the site’s three-thousand-year history.
The Church of the Holy Sepulchre, located in the Christian Quarter, is traditionally believed to be the site of Jesus’s crucifixion, burial, and resurrection. The church is free to enter and open to visitors throughout the day, though it is shared among six Christian denominations, each managing different sections. Quiet reverence is expected, particularly during scheduled liturgical services.
Day 3 morning can be spent at the Tower of David (Citadel), which houses archaeological findings spanning 3,000 years of Jerusalem’s history. The museum and rampart walk offer commanding views over the Old City. Ticket price is approximately 70 ILS (about 128 RMB). The afternoon can be reserved for exploring the Christian Quarter walking route, visiting the Mount Zion area with its Room of the Last Supper and Dormition Abbey, or shopping for local crafts in the Old City’s bazaars.
| Jerusalem 3-Day Budget (Per Person) | Cost (RMB) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hotel, 3 nights (3-4 star, shared twin) | 900-1,500 | Old City area, breakfast included |
| Attraction tickets (combined) | 250-350 | Western Wall Tunnels, Tower of David, etc. |
| Dining (3 meals daily) | 300-500 | Mid-range Old City restaurants |
| Local transportation | 50-100 | Bus and light rail |
| 3-Day Subtotal | 1,500-2,450 | Excludes international airfare |
Day 4: The Dead Sea
Day 4 involves a transfer of approximately 1.5 hours from Jerusalem to the Dead Sea, Earth’s lowest point on land at approximately 430 meters below sea level. The Dead Sea’s extraordinary salinity of 34%—roughly eight to ten times that of the ocean—allows effortless floating, a genuinely surreal physical experience. The mineral-rich Dead Sea mud is also prized for skin health, and applying a full-body mud treatment before rinsing in the sea is a popular ritual.
The Ein Bokek and Mitzpe Ramon areas along the Israeli side host most of the major Dead Sea resorts. Public beach access at Ein Bokek Nature Reserve costs approximately 28 ILS (about 51 RMB), while private resort beaches (such as those at the Radisson Blu or Lotus hotels) charge approximately 100-150 ILS (182-273 RMB) for day-use access by non-guests. Guests at resort hotels typically enjoy complimentary beach access. Bringing your own Dead Sea mud or purchasing it locally is recommended for the full experience.
A worthwhile side excursion from the Dead Sea is Masada, the ancient fortress where Jewish rebels made their final stand against Roman forces in 73 CE. The cable car to the summit costs approximately 76 ILS (139 RMB), while those who prefer to hike can climb the Snake Path for free—early morning departures are advisable to avoid the intense heat, especially in summer months.
Dead Sea hotel prices vary considerably by tier. Budget-friendly options run approximately 400-600 RMB per night, while upscale resorts like the Herods Dead Sea or Isrotel chain range from 800-2,000 RMB per night for standard rooms with half-board or full-board packages.
Days 5-6: Petra, Jordan
Day 5 involves returning to the Allenby Bridge crossing for the border formalities into Jordan, then continuing to Amman (approximately 1 hour from the border), and finally driving approximately 3 hours south to Petra. The Petra Nabataean Kingdom represents one of humanity’s most remarkable architectural achievements—carved directly into rose-red sandstone cliffs by the Nabataean civilization over 2,000 years ago, Petra was a prosperous trading crossroads that controlled ancient caravan routes between Arabia, Egypt, and the Mediterranean.
Petra’s ticket structure in 2026: single-day entry costs approximately 70 JOD (about 99 USD), covering the main site and Petra Museum. The two-day pass at 75 JOD (approximately 106 USD) is strongly recommended for those who want to explore beyond the iconic Al-Khazneh (The Treasury)—the magnificent temple facade visible at the end of the dramatic Siq canyon—and the less-visited Ad Deir (The Monastery), which requires a 1.5-2 hour climb up more than 800 steps. Jordan Pass holders receive free entry to Petra (single entry), making the pass an exceptional value.
Day 6 offers opportunities for deeper exploration. The Royal Tombs cluster on the High Place of Sacrifice plateau offer a different perspective on Petra’s grandeur with significantly fewer visitors than the main tourist path. In the afternoon, consider driving approximately 1 hour to Wadi Rum (Wadi Rum Protected Area), another UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its massive sandstone mountains and dramatic desert landscapes that served as the backdrop for the film Lawrence of Arabia. A half-day Jeep tour with a local Bedouin guide costs approximately 50-70 JOD (approximately 470-660 RMB). Overnight camping in Wadi Rum—sleeping under the extraordinary clarity of desert stars in a traditional Bedouin tent—costs approximately 40-80 JOD (380-760 RMB) including dinner and breakfast.
Days 7-8: Amman and Jerash
Day 7 allows for a leisurely return to Amman with stops en route at Mount Nebo (traditionally identified as the place where Moses viewed the Promised Land before his death) and Madaba, famous for its 6th-century Byzantine mosaic map of the Holy Land in the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George. Mount Nebo admission is approximately 5 JOD (about 47 RMB); the Madaba mosaic church entry is approximately 3 JOD (about 28 RMB).
Amman, Jordan’s capital, offers a compelling mix of ancient and modern. The impressively preserved Roman Theatre, which seated approximately 6,000 spectators in the 2nd century CE, sits in the heart of the downtown area and is open for approximately 5 JOD (about 47 RMB). The adjacent Jordan Museum tells the complete story of Jordanian civilization from prehistoric times to the present, with admission at approximately 10 JOD (about 94 RMB). The Amman Citadel (Jabal al-Qal’a), housing the ruins of the Temple of Hercules and Umayyad Palace, offers panoramic views of the modern city and is open for approximately 3 JOD (about 28 RMB). The late afternoon is an ideal time to visit, as the temperature becomes more manageable and the golden-hour light illuminates the ancient stones beautifully.
Day 8 can be devoted to a day trip to Jerash (also known as Gerasa), one of the best-preserved provincial Roman cities in the entire Roman world. The site features a complete Roman city plan including the Colonnaded Street, Hadrian’s Arch, the Temple of Artemis, and a perfectly intact Oval Plaza that predates the Roman period. From Amman, Jerash is approximately 1 hour north by car; round-trip transportation with a driver typically costs approximately 50-80 JOD (470-760 RMB) for a private car. Admission is approximately 10 JOD (about 94 RMB) per person.
Days 9-10: Departure
Day 9 offers a final opportunity to explore Amman’s modern districts—the stylish Abdali district with its contemporary cafes and restaurants, or the Rainbow Street area for souvenirs and local crafts. The magnificent King Abdullah I Mosque, one of the few mosques in Jordan that welcomes non-Muslim visitors, is open to tourists at specific hours for a fee of approximately 7 JOD (about 66 RMB).
Day 10 involves transfer to Queen Alia International Airport for departure. For those returning via Tel Aviv, the Allenby Bridge crossing requires an additional buffer of 5-6 hours to comfortably manage both border formalities. All border crossing times are approximate and vary significantly based on the day of the week and season.
Accommodation Comparison Table
The following table summarizes accommodation options across key destinations, with prices based on per-person rates for two travelers sharing a twin/double room in a standard four-star hotel category.
| Destination | Budget (RMB/night) | 3-4 Star (RMB/night) | 5-Star (RMB/night) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jerusalem Old City | 200-350 | 600-1,200 | 1,800-3,500 | Stone-walled boutique properties |
| Dead Sea (Israeli side) | 350-500 | 700-1,500 | 1,500-3,000 | Beachfront resorts with Dead Sea mud spa |
| Petra entrance | 250-400 | 500-900 | 1,200-2,000 | Walk-to-site convenience |
| Wadi Rum Desert | 300-500 (tent) | 600-1,000 (upgraded) | 1,500+ (luxury camp) | Authentic Bedouin camping experience |
| Amman | 200-350 | 400-800 | 1,000-2,500 | Modern hotels in western districts |
| Around Jerash | 150-300 | 350-600 | 800-1,500 | Rural guesthouses near the ruins |
Hotel prices in Jerusalem surge significantly during Jewish religious holidays (Passover, Sukkot, Yom Kippur), sometimes doubling or tripling. Booking 3-6 months in advance is strongly recommended for travel during these periods. Jordanian hotels offer noticeably better value than Israeli ones—approximately 60-70% of the cost for comparable quality—which makes Jordan the more budget-friendly portion of the journey.
Total Trip Budget Summary (10 Days, Two Travelers)
The following comprehensive budget covers all ground expenses for a 10-day journey in Israel and Jordan, based on two travelers sharing accommodations in mid-range four-star hotels, eating at mid-range restaurants, and including major attractions and activities.
| Expense Category | Budget Range (RMB) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Visa fees (Israel + Jordan) | 300-500 | Israel single entry ~170 RMB; Jordan visa-on-arrival ~56 USD |
| Ground transport within Israel | 800-1,500 | Jerusalem–Dead Sea–border shared taxi or organized transfer |
| Ground transport within Jordan | 1,200-2,000 | Amman–Petra–Wadi Rum–Jerash private car with driver |
| Accommodation (9 nights, 4-star shared) | 5,400-10,800 | Per-person cost: 2,700-5,400 RMB |
| Attraction admissions (full itinerary) | 1,500-2,500 | Includes Petra, Masada, Jerash, museums, and site entries |
| Dining (3 meals daily) | 1,800-3,000 | Mid-range restaurants; mix of local and international cuisine |
| Dead Sea beach day-use | 200-400 | Resort day-pass or public beach entry |
| Activities (Wadi Rum Jeep, Petra night tour, etc.) | 400-800 | Various optional experiences |
| Travel insurance | 200-400 | 10-day comprehensive policy |
| Subtotal (excluding airfare) | 11,800-21,400 | Per person: 5,900-10,700 RMB |
| International flights (2 passengers round-trip) | 14,000-24,000 | Low vs. high season; route dependent |
| Grand Total | 25,800-45,400 | Combined for two travelers, 10 days |
This budget represents a mid-range travel style. Budget-conscious travelers who opt for hostel dormitories, public transportation, and self-catering options could reduce the land costs to approximately 4,500-7,000 RMB per person. Luxury travelers choosing five-star Dead Sea resorts and Jerusalem boutique hotels could see per-person costs exceed 15,000 RMB for the ground portion alone.
Practical Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
The optimal travel window for Israel and Jordan is October through April, with October-November and March-April offering the most comfortable temperatures (15-25°C / 59-77°F). Summer months (June-August) bring intense inland heat, with temperatures regularly exceeding 35°C (95°F) in the Dead Sea and desert areas, making extended outdoor activities uncomfortable and potentially dangerous. Winter (December-February) brings occasional rain to Jerusalem and the highlands, but snow is rare below 800 meters elevation and rarely disrupts travel plans.
Major religious holidays significantly affect pricing and crowd levels. Jewish holidays (Passover in spring, Sukkot in autumn, Yom Kippur in autumn) cause dramatic price spikes in Israeli hotels. Islamic holidays (Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha) shift daily schedules as restaurants and some attractions adjust their hours.
Safety Considerations
Both Israel and Jordan are generally safe for international travelers, though conditions can change rapidly in the region. Checking the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs travel advisories before departure and registering your trip with the nearest Chinese embassy or consulate upon arrival is advisable. The Allenby Bridge crossing between Jordan and Israel can experience significant delays; maintaining flexibility in your schedule around this portion of the journey is essential.
Cultural Etiquette
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites—covering shoulders and knees is required at mosques, churches, and Jewish holy sites. Women may need a headscarf for Temple Mount visits. During Shabbat (Friday sunset to Saturday sunset), ultra-Orthodox Jewish neighborhoods appreciate restraint from photography and use of electronic devices. In Jordan, accepting offered tea or coffee from a host is considered polite; declining may be perceived as rude.
Currency and Payments
Israel’s currency is the New Israeli Shekel (ILS); Jordan’s is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD), which is pegged to the IMF’s special drawing rights and trades at approximately 1 JOD = 10 RMB. US dollars are widely accepted in both countries. Credit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and shops in urban areas, but cash remains necessary for small vendors, tips, and some border crossing fees. Tipping in restaurants is approximately 10% of the bill; guides and drivers typically expect 10-20 USD per day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do Chinese passport holders need visas for both Israel and Jordan?
A: Yes. Israel requires a paper visa or eligible electronic application before arrival—visa-on-arrival is not available for Chinese citizens. Jordan offers visa-on-arrival for Chinese passport holders at all entry points, costing approximately 40 JOD (about 56 USD). If your itinerary involves crossing from Israel to Jordan by land at the Allenby Bridge, having both entry documents prepared will facilitate smoother border procedures.
Q: What is the best time of year to visit Israel and Jordan?
A: October through April offers the most comfortable weather, with temperatures ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F). March-April and October-November are particularly pleasant with fewer crowds than peak holiday periods. Summer months (June-August) bring extreme heat exceeding 35°C (95°F) in inland and desert areas, making outdoor sightseeing difficult. The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn offer the best balance of comfortable temperatures, manageable crowds, and reasonable hotel pricing.
Q: How much should I budget for a 10-day Israel-Jordan trip?
A: For two travelers sharing mid-range accommodations, expect approximately 11,800-21,400 RMB for all ground expenses (visas, internal transport, hotels, meals, attractions, and activities), or 5,900-10,700 RMB per person. Adding round-trip international flights (typically 14,000-24,000 RMB for two) brings the total trip cost to approximately 25,800-45,400 RMB for the pair. Budget travelers can reduce land costs to around 4,500-7,000 RMB per person by choosing hostels and public transport.
Q: How many days should I allocate for Petra?
A: At minimum, plan for one full day (6-8 hours) within Petra itself. The site is vast, and the hike to Ad Deir (The Monastery) alone requires 1.5-2 hours round-trip. A two-day pass is worth the small additional investment if you want to explore beyond the main tourist trail or include the Petra Night experience, where the Siq pathway is illuminated by thousands of candles. Arriving at opening time (6:00 AM in summer) helps you experience the Treasury with minimal crowds.
Q: What should I be careful about when visiting the Dead Sea?
A: The Dead Sea’s extreme salinity (34%) means seawater contacting eyes, mouth, or open wounds causes immediate burning. Limit floating sessions to 20-30 minutes, and always rinse thoroughly with fresh water afterward. The mineral-rich mud is beneficial for skin but should not be left to dry completely on sensitive skin. Those with cardiovascular conditions, extremely high blood pressure, or who are pregnant should consult a physician before floating. Never attempt to swim or float on your back—always float face-up to avoid accidental contact with the highly alkaline water.
Q: Is it safe to cross between Israel and Jordan by land?
A: The Allenby Bridge (King Hussein Bridge) is the official crossing point between Jordan and Israel/West Bank for foreign tourists and is generally considered safe and well-managed for international travelers. However, crossing can take 2-4 hours due to security procedures, and the bridge is closed on certain holidays. Arrive early in the day with all documentation ready, and budget at least half a day for the crossing in each direction. Avoid crossing on Fridays or Saturdays as processing hours are shortened.
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