Explore Popular Day Trips from Amman Today!
Are you ready to find the hidden gems near Amman? Jordan is full of history and beauty, calling you to explore. You might ask, what are the best day trips from Amman to see?
From the Dead Sea’s floating wonders to Jerash’s ancient ruins, each place shows a different side of Jordan. This article will take you on various Amman day trips. You’ll see Jordan’s beauty and culture up close. Get ready to see amazing landscapes and historical sites near the capital.
The Allure of Day Trips from Amman
Day trips from Amman are filled with rich experiences and are easy to get to. You can visit many amazing places in just a short drive. From ancient ruins in Jerash to the peaceful Dead Sea, these tours let you explore Jordan’s culture and history.
These trips let you dive into local traditions, try delicious food, and see incredible views. For example, Madaba is known for its stunning mosaics. Mount Nebo offers breathtaking views of the Holy Land. And, the Dead Sea is just an hour away, perfect for a relaxing soak.
These attractions are close together, making day trips even more appealing. You can see many places in one day. Whether you love history, nature, or food, Amman is a great starting point for your adventures in Jordan.
| Destination | Distance from Amman (miles) | Drive Time (minutes) | Entry Fee (Jordanian Dinars) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jerash | 30 | 45 | 12 |
| Dead Sea | 32 | 60 | N/A |
| Bethany Beyond Jordan | 36 | 55 | 12 |
| Madaba | 20 | 30 | 5 |
| Wadi Mujib | 50.89 | 75 | 21 |
| Azraq | 68 | 90 | N/A |
What are some popular day trips from Amman?
Exploring around Amman opens the door to many attractions for day trips. Each place offers something special, showing off Jordan’s history and beauty. Here are some top choices for your Amman excursions.
Overview of Day Trips
Day trips from Amman often highlight remarkable sites such as:
- The Dead Sea – experience floating in the mineral-rich waters.
- As-Salt – discover a town steeped in history and culture.
- Jerash – explore one of the best-preserved Roman cities.
- Ajloun – admire the medieval castle set in lush highlands.
- Madaba – witness exquisite mosaics dating back to Byzantine times.
- Mount Nebo – take in breathtaking views and historical significance.
- Ma’in Hot Springs – relax in natural thermal waters.
Reasons to Explore Beyond Amman
Venturing beyond Amman lets you see stunning attractions that deepen your understanding of the region. Notable reasons to explore include:
- Diverse Landscapes: From the desert landscapes of Wadi Rum to the lush hills of Ajloun, Jordan’s topography is varied and beautiful.
- Rich Heritage: Each destination tells a story, be it ancient Roman ruins or local traditions of hospitality in As-Salt, recognized as a UNESCO heritage site.
- Cultural Engagement: Interacting with local communities allows for an authentic experience, fostering a deeper appreciation for Jordanian culture.
- Convenient Access: Many of these excursions are a short drive from the city center, making them accessible for all travelers.
The Dead Sea Experience
The Dead Sea is a unique spot for Jordan day trips. It’s the lowest point on Earth and much saltier than oceans. When you float in the Dead Sea, you’ll find it hard to swim face-down because of its buoyancy.
Unique Characteristics of the Dead Sea
This water is the seventh saltiest on Earth, nine times saltier than ocean water. The shoreline is moving back one meter each year. This is because of evaporation and less water from the Jordan River. Visiting the Dead Sea is urgent, as the landscape is changing.
Must-Do Activities at the Dead Sea
There are many fun things to do on your trip. Some top activities include:
- Floating in the Dead Sea: Feel the unique sensation of floating on the surface.
- Applying mineral-rich mud: Enjoy the skin benefits of the therapeutic mud.
- Enjoying resort facilities: Resorts offer showers, pools, and dining. Day passes cost about 20 JOD for adults and 10 JOD for kids.
- Exploring local beaches: Amman Beach is a favorite, with entry around 25 JOD.
For better comfort, rent water shoes for walking on sharp shores. After swimming, use soap or shampoo to wash off the salt. Planning ahead, like renting a car, makes your trip better. You’ll enjoy the stunning sunset views the Dead Sea offers.
As-Salt: A Hidden Gem
As-Salt is just 45 minutes from Amman and is a hidden treasure in Jordan. It offers a unique look into the country’s rich culture. This UNESCO-listed town sits nearly 1000 meters above sea level. It has a vibrant architecture with many historical buildings.
Walking through its streets, you feel the warmth of Jordanian hospitality. You can also try local foods.
Exploring the Heritage of As-Salt
The heart of As-Salt has about 650 historic buildings. They show different styles and historical influences. Al Khader Church, built in 1682, is a key part of the town’s religious history.
The Qaqish House, built in 1985, was home to the Qaqish family until 1905. This blend of old and new history makes As-Salt fascinating for travelers.
What to See and Do in As-Salt
A visit to As-Salt isn’t complete without Aktham’s 1881 Coffeehouse. It’s an old mansion turned coffeehouse where you can relax with local coffee. Also, check out Jabal Cafe for the best view in Jordan.
This cafe is perfect for enjoying the local view and traditional Jordanian food.
As-Salt is a great choice for day trips from Amman. It invites you to dive into the local culture and history. The town’s charming streets, tasty food, and rich heritage make for a memorable visit.
Step Back in Time at Jerash
Visiting Jerash lets you dive into history and see some of Jordan’s most amazing ancient ruins. A day tour of Jerash is a great way to see one of the world’s best-preserved Roman towns. It’s just under two hours from Amman.
Historical Significance of Jerash
Jerash is very important historically, showing Roman, Byzantine, and early Islamic designs. It was once a bustling city with about 20,000 people. Walking through its structures, like temples and theaters, brings back the city’s lively past.
Jerash shows the Romans’ skill in building and their big impact on this area.
Highlights of the Jerash Ruins
Exploring Jerash, you’ll see some key spots:
- Oval Plaza: A beautiful, elliptical area with tall columns, great for meetings and chats.
- Temple of Zeus: A grand temple for the king of gods, with amazing design.
- The Colonnaded Street: A long street with colonnades, showing the city’s old life.
- The North Theatre: An ancient theater for shows and gatherings, making voices and music sound bigger.
Plan to spend two to four hours here to really get it. A guide can make it even better, sharing stories and facts about these incredible ruins.
Ajloun Castle and Its Surroundings
Starting an Ajloun day trip opens a world of history. Ajloun Castle sits in the hills, offering views and a peek into the past. Built in the 12th century, it links to the Crusader era and watches over the valley. This trip is both educational and beautiful, exploring sites near Amman.
Visiting Ajloun Castle
Ajloun Castle is a highlight among Jordan’s castles for its design and history. It’s close to Jerash, making it a great stop. Spend about four hours here to see everything and enjoy the views. Wear comfortable shoes because the paths are uneven.
Tips for a Great Day Trip
- Book a private tour for a more personal experience and deeper insights.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views from the castle.
- Stop at a local restaurant to try traditional Jordanian food.
- Visit Jerash and Umm Qais too for a full exploration.
Discover Madaba and Mount Nebo
Exploring Madaba on a day tour is a unique chance to see Jordan’s rich culture and history. This city, just 40-50 minutes from Amman, is known for its stunning mosaics. The famous Madaba Map is a must-see for anyone visiting.
The Rich Mosaic History of Madaba
Madaba is called the “City of Mosaics” because of its many beautiful mosaics. The Church of St. George is famous for the Madaba Map, a 6th-century Holy Land map. It’s not just a tourist spot but also a historical treasure.
There are many other sites in Madaba with amazing mosaics. You can also see local crafts like textiles and ceramics. These crafts show the city’s ongoing artistic traditions.
Significance of Mount Nebo
Mount Nebo is a short drive from Madaba and is very important in biblical history. It’s where Moses saw the Promised Land before he died. The views of the Dead Sea, Jericho, and Jerusalem are unforgettable.
Visiting Mount Nebo is a chance to experience where spirituality meets nature. It’s a peaceful place for reflection. A trip to Madaba and Mount Nebo is a journey through history and spirituality that you won’t forget.
| Activity | Location | Entrance Fee (JOD) |
|---|---|---|
| Church of St. George | Madaba | 1 |
| Archaeological Museum | Madaba | 3 (free with Jordan Pass) |
| Mount Nebo | Near Madaba | 3 |
| Wadi Mujib Entry | Near Mount Nebo | 21 |
| Dead Sea Spa Resort | Dead Sea | 18 (after discount) |
Relaxation at Ma’in Hot Springs
If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from Amman’s busy streets, Ma’in Hot Springs is the place to be. It’s just an hour’s drive southwest of the city. Here, you’ll find natural hot springs known for their healing powers.
The beautiful canyon views around the springs add to the relaxation experience. It’s a perfect spot to take a break and refresh your mind and body.
Therapeutic Benefits of Ma’in Hot Springs
Ma’in Hot Springs in Jordan is famous for its health benefits. You can visit at least four different hot spring locations, each offering a unique experience. The main pool area has an entrance fee of about 110 JOD for two people.
Nearby public pools cost around 15 JOD per person. While some pools are free, they are often not well-maintained and crowded. For a better experience, try the resort’s amenities. This way, you can fully enjoy the peace and healing of Ma’in Hot Springs.
