Like most, you will probably fly into Queen Alia airport, which is about a 30 minute drive to Amman; and exploring the vibrant city is just the beginning of your Jordanian adventure! This bustling capital is perfectly situated for a variety of great day trips that showcase the country’s rich history and stunning geography.
Whether you’re looking for ancient ruins, natural wonders, or a touch of local flavour, these four destinations offer something special for every traveller.
1. Jerash: A Walk Through Ancient History
Travel Time
- Driving: Approx. 1 hour (50 km north of Amman)
- Transport: Renting a car is the most convenient option, but you can also take a public bus from the North Terminal Bus Station (approx. 1 JOD each way) or join a guided tour.
What To Do
Step back in time at Jerash, one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world.
Wander through the impressive Hadrian’s Arch, explore the half-ruined Hippodrome, and walk along the column-lined streets. The ancient theatres and temples make this site a must-see for history enthusiasts.
If you can, try to plan your visit to coincide with the Jerash Festival; it’s a lively celebration of Jordanian culture with music, dance, and theatrical performances right among the ruins.
Top Tip: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and the midday heat. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat, as the site offers little shade.
2. Dead Sea: Float Away Your Worries
Travel Time
- Driving: Around 1 hour (60 km southwest of Amman)
- Transport: The easiest way to get there is by car, although some hotels and tour operators offer shuttle services. You can also get the bus from Mujaharin bus station to Rame and then get a taxi to Amman Beach (approx. 1 JOD for the bus and 4 JOD for the taxi).
What To Do
Experience the weightless sensation of floating in the Dead Sea. The high salt content makes it impossible to sink, so just lay back and let the water do the work. The mineral-rich mud is also great for your skin, so rub it on and enjoy the feeling of looking ridiculous while giving your skin a boost – and don’t forget to take a photo!
You might also like:
Enjoy the stunning views and relax at one of the many beach resorts that offer day passes for access to private beaches and facilities. There is public access at Amman Beach which costs 25 JOD to enter – note that this is one of the more popular beaches so it can get very busy.
If you want further info, check out our Dead Sea Travel Guide with tips for your trip!
Top Tip: Bring a book or newspaper for the ultimate photo opportunity and remember to avoid getting water in your eyes and mouth – it’s incredibly salty!
3. Madaba and Mount Nebo: Mosaic Marvels and Scenic Views
Travel Time
- Driving: Approx. 45 minutes (Madaba is about 35 km south of Amman)
- Transport: Best reached by car or taxi for flexibility; some guided tours combine Madaba and Mount Nebo.
What To Do
Madaba, known as the “City of Mosaics,” is home to the famous mosaic map of the Holy Land in Saint George’s Church. This 6th-century artwork is a historical treasure and offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past.
After exploring Madaba, head to Mount Nebo where it is said that Moses viewed the Promised Land. The site offers panoramic views and houses a basilica with beautiful mosaics.
You might also like:
You could easily spend one day in Madaba alone (check out our ‘Exploring Madaba: The City of Mosaics’ post), but since Mount Nebo is only a 20 minute drive from Madaba we’d recommend combining both into a single day trip.
Top Tip: Don’t miss the La Storia Tourism Complex near Mount Nebo for interactive exhibits on Jordan’s religious history. It’s a great spot for both families and history buffs.
4. Ajloun Castle and Ajloun Forest Reserve: Nature and History Combined
Travel Time
- Driving: About 1.5 hours (73 km north of Amman)
- Transport: Renting a car is recommended for visiting both the castle and the reserve, as they are not well connected by public transport.
What To Do
Ajloun Castle, a 12th-century fortress built by the Ayyubids, offers stunning views over the Jordan Valley and the perfect backdrop for understanding the region’s history. After exploring the castle, head to the nearby Ajloun Forest Reserve. This lush area is great for hiking and bird-watching, providing a refreshing contrast to Jordan’s desert landscapes.
Top Tip: If you’re a nature lover, consider staying overnight at one of the forest cabins in the reserve to fully enjoy the area’s natural beauty.
Bonus: Petra
Now you might be thinking, what about Petra?! The ancient city of Petra is about a 3 hour drive from Amman, and whilst this could be doable as a day trip, we would recommend at least staying overnight here. If you are interested in exploring Petra away from the crowds, check out our hiking recommendation: Discover Petra Through the Back Door Trail: A Unique Adventure.
These 4 day trips from Amman offer a mix of cultural exploration, natural beauty, and historical insights. Whether you’re floating in the Dead Sea or wandering through ancient ruins, each one promises unforgettable experiences.
You might also like:
Grab your camera, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to explore the wonders of Jordan just a short ride out of Amman! If you are interested in an itinerary for Jordan which includes all of the above mentioned day trips, check out our Ultimate 7-Day Travel Guide!
Just a heads up - some of the links on this blog are affiliate links. This means we might earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them, at no extra cost to you. This helps fund the site and keep more blog posts coming your way. Thanks for your support!
Comments
If you'd like to chat directly, pop us an email at hello@lawsoftravel.com or drop a comment below and we'll reply as soon as we can!