The 20th-century capital city of Amman in Jordan is one of the best cities for a thoroughly authentic Middle-Eastern experience. Best accommodations can be availed in one of the boutique hotels. For a homey feel, an Airbnb vacation rental is your best bet. After a few days of exploring Amman, however, it makes sense to explore its several amazing hiking trails, ruins, and historic attractions that lie within an hour of the city. Distances in the country don’t seem that large and Amman makes for a great base for day trips that will explore more of the country. In fact, some of these lovely destinations can even be combined into a one-day trip, especially for those who are short of time. So, hire a car, get out, and explore the best of the country on these day tours from Amman. Continue reading for the top day trips from Amman, Jordan.
1. Jerusalem and Bethlehem (from USD 512.0)
Indulge in a day of mystery and magic while visiting two of the most ancient cities in the world — Jerusalem and Bethlehem. Jerusalem lies around 220 kilometres (137 miles) west of Amman, while Bethlehem is 10 kilometres (6 miles) south of Jerusalem. Explore the old city of Jerusalem and visit the Garden of Gethsemane, Western Wall, and Church of All Nations, where Jesus is said to have prayed prior to his arrest. Also, visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, which is a 4th-century Christian chapel. From thereon, head to the city where Jesus Christ was born — the beautiful Bethlehem. Culture lovers will love hallowed sites like the Church of the Nativity, Chapel of the Milk Grotto, and the ancient reservoirs of Solomon’s Pools that date back to the 2nd century AD.
Jerusalem and Bethlehem Private Day Trip from Amman
Duration: 12 hours
2. Dead Sea (from USD 102.0)
A day trip from Amman to the Dead Sea promises a great time. Also known as the Salt Sea and the Sea of Death, the Dead Sea is famous for being the lowest point on earth. Landlocked between Jordan and Israel, and around 60 kilometres (37 miles) southwest of Amman, this attraction boasts compelling ancient history and eye-popping natural beauty. In fact, the Dead Sea is laden with history — having once been a sanctuary for the biblical King David. It was even one of the first health resorts in the world — Herod the Great often went here and its salts are said to have been used in balms in the Egyptian mummification process. Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime swim in its mineral-rich, cobalt-blue waters and let nature work wonders to soothe every inch of your body.
Dead Sea Half-Day Tour from Amman
Duration: 5 hours
3. Wadi Rum (from USD 166.0)
The otherwordly, ethereal Wadi Rum is perhaps the closest one will come to visiting Mars in this lifetime. Located about 300 kilometres (186 miles) south of Amman, the red-and-pink-hued desert — whose name translates to “Valley of the Moon” — makes for a fantastic day trip from the capital. It is famous for its prehistoric rock carvings and ancient engravings, stunning natural towers, mountains, arches, and crimson-coloured dunes that glow in the light of the setting sun. From atop its highest peak Jabal Umm ad Dami, one can see the Red Sea and even the Saudi border on really clear days. Plus, if you’re a movie fan, you’ll be thrilled to know that several films including The Martian, Transformers, and even the iconic, Oscar-winning Lawrence of Arabia were shot here.
Private Full Day Trip to Wadi Rum Valley of Moon Martian Desert from Amman
Duration: 12 hours
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4. Petra (from USD 99.0)
A day trip from Amman to Petra is a must in your itinerary. One of the most recognized images in the world, the ancient city of Petra lies just about 250 kilometres (155 miles) south of Amman. Lying between the Dead Sea and the Red Sea, the Nabataean caravan city of Petra has been inhabited since prehistoric times. The city is half-built, half-carved into the rock, and flanked by mountains riddled with gorges and passages. In fact, the approach to Petra is via a long, high-walled “siq”, a tectonic-forces-designed crack in the rock. The siq was made famous in “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusades” when they rode out of Petra on horses. In fact, it’s the beauty of the siq that offers breathtaking first glimpses of the ancient city, which itself is a brilliant example of Hellenistic architecture.
Petra Full-Day Private Tour from Amman
Duration: 10.0 hour
5. Umm Qais, Jerash, and Ajloun (from USD 89.0)
Once you’ve explored the regions south of Amman, it’s time to turn to the vast possibilities of northern Jordan. About 120 kilometres (74.5 miles) north of Amman lies the gorgeous, historical verdant oasis that is Umm Qais. Formerly the Roman Decapolis city of Gadara, Umm Qais is green meadows peppered with timeless Byzantine ruins stretching out to as far as the eye can see. Another northern Jordan gem is Ajloun that is 75 kilometres (46.6 miles) north of Amman, wherein lie many attractions for the culture and nature buffs. First up is the spectacular hilltop Ajloun Castle, followed by the Ajlun Woodland Reserve, which is one of Jordan’s best nature reserves. Finally, don’t miss out on exploring the ancient chaotic hub that is the actual town of Ajloun, which is more than six centuries old. Completing the “best of northern Jordan” trifecta are the ancient ruins of Jerash, a quaint city with an illustrious past and lying 50 kilometres (31 miles) north of Amman. Spread out on a hill, the Byzantine-Roman Jerash’s most famous place is the imposing Hadrian’s Arch and the historic, cobblestoned, column-lined Colonnaded Street.
Full-Day Tour: Umm Qais, Jerash, and Ajloun from Amman
Duration: 6 to 8 hours
6. Madaba and Mount Nebo (from USD 108.0)
Located 40 kilometres (25 miles) southwest of Amman is the market town of Madaba, which is home to one of the largest Christian communities in Jordan. The town is sprinkled with Byzantine-era mosaics and relics, one of the most important ones being the St. George Greek Orthodox Church. Herein lies the only surviving earliest original map of the Holy Land, which dates back to 560 AD. The town is peppered with preserved mosaic floors, and there’s a lovely, little local museum as well. Madaba is also known for being the town nearest to Mount Nebo. The lonely, wind-swept mountain is an important place for Jews and is mentioned in the Hebrew Bible as the place wherefrom Moses saw the Promised Land before passing away. It sits on the western edge of a plateau that has spectacular views of the Dead Sea and Jordan Valley.
Private Tour to Madaba Mosaic City and Mount Nebo from Amman
Duration: 6 hours
7. Umayyad Desert Castle (from USD 80.0)
Umayyad Desert Castle is a hidden gem nestled amidst the vast desert landscapes of Jordan. With its rich historical significance and breathtaking architecture, the Umayyad Desert Castle is a destination that will transport you back in time.
Step into the footsteps of ancient civilizations as you explore this majestic desert fortress’s intricately designed halls, courtyards, and baths. Marvel at the exquisite mosaics, intricate carvings, and graceful arches that showcase the skilled craftsmanship of the Umayyad dynasty. Immerse yourself in the tales of the past as you wander through the well-preserved rooms, imagining the lives of the rulers and nobles who once resided within these walls. Capture panoramic views of the surrounding desert from the castle’s strategic vantage points.
From Amman: Umayyad Desert Castles Tour with Transfer
Duration: 6.0 hour
8. Holy Land (from USD 189.0)
Embark on a transformative journey from Amman to the Holy Land, where history, spirituality, and breathtaking landscapes converge. Begin by visiting the revered King Hussein Mosque in Amman, immersing yourself in the Islamic heritage of Jordan.
Travel to Bethany Beyond the Jordan, where Jesus was believed to have been baptized, and feel the sanctity of this sacred site. Explore the ancient city of Jericho, one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world, and stand in awe of its archaeological wonders. Make your way to Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus, and visit the Church of the Nativity, a place of deep reverence for Christians worldwide. Experience the spiritual energy at the Western Wall in Jerusalem, an important site for Jewish worship. Conclude your pilgrimage at the iconic Dome of the Rock, an architectural marvel atop Temple Mount, offering panoramic views of Jerusalem’s Old City.
From Amman: Full Day Holy Land Tour
Duration: 7.0 hour
9. Umm el-Jimal (from USD 96.0)
The stunning Umm el-Jimal located 80 kilometers (50 miles) northeast of Amman is a village frozen in time. In ancient times, the village was known as “the Black Gem of the Desert” for its striking black basalt deposits and encrusted stone layers. Umm Al Jimal, which sits near the Jordanian–Syrian border, has over 150 structures standing today, of which there are even 15 churches. Umm el-Jimal offers a fascinating peek into rural life during the early Islamic, Byzantine, and Roman eras. Plus, the lovely village was rarely vandalised or looted, leaving much of it intact for culture lovers to feast their eyes on.
Private Umm el-Jimal Visit from Amman
Duration: 6 hours
Exploring the very best of Jordan
Jordan is chock-full of ancient history and natural wonders that are scattered in all directions with many of the attractions in Amman alone. To explore the country in the very best way, make the gorgeous capital of Amman your base and take these fantastic day trips from there to the most ancient and finest attractions of Jordan.
Frequently asked questions about day trips from Amman
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