Aims (i) To assess the level of patients' experiences of nursing care and identify important aspects that enhance such experiences; (ii) to assess the level of patients' satisfaction with nursing care and identify important aspects that enhance satisfaction; and (iii) to compare the level of patients' satisfaction and their experiences according to demographic variables of patients, hospital wards and hospital settings. Design and method A cross-sectional descriptive study was used. The sample of the study was a convenience one (n = 300). The Newcastle Satisfaction with Nursing Scale and a demographic form were used to collect the data. Results The findings of the study indicated that the level of satisfaction of Jordanian patients with nursing care was moderate and their experiences of nursing care were positive. Female patients were more satisfied with nursing care than male patients. Gynaecological patients were more satisfied than medical/surgical patients and patients in the semi-private hospitals were more satisfied than those in public hospitals. Implications for nursing management The findings of the study provided the basis for developing strategies that may enhance the level of Jordanian patients' satisfaction. Conclusion The findings of the study provide nurses with information about aspects that enhance or hinder patient satisfaction.