Amman is a popular base for many trips to Jordan. Jordan is a small country and it takes less than 4 hours to reach almost anywhere in Jordan from Amman. While most people come into Amman and then travel south to the popular sites of Petra and Wadi Rum, it is possible to use Amman as a base for day trip from the city. After you have explored all of the things to do in downtown Amman, consider these popular day trips!
If you do choose to base yourself in Amman, be warned that you will spend quite a bit of time in the car. I do hightly suggest when you go to Petra and Wadi Rum you do at least spend the night! But with is for a different post, here we focus on the of the most popular day trips from Amman.
Top Day Trips from Amman
Northern Jordan from Amman: Jerash, Umm Qais and Ajloun
Way too often, Northern Jordan is overlooked as the “golden triangle” to the south lures visitors south right away. However, there is a missed opportunity when skipping sites like Jerash and Umm Qais.
Northern Jordan Tour from Get Your Guide
Amman to Petra Day Tour
It is possible to see Petra from Amman on a day tour. If your time in Jordan is very limited, an early morning departure from Amman will allow you to reach Petra before lunch. The drive it about 3 hours each way.
Petra Day Tour from Get Your Guide
Petra Day Tour from Viator Tours
Amman Day Trip to the Dead Sea
One of the most popular Amman day trips is to the lowest point on earth, the Dead Sea.
Dead Sea to Amman day trip on Get Your Guide
Amman Day Trip to Madaba, Mount Nebo and the Baptism Site
For many visitors to Jordan, a visit to Holy and Biblical sites are a big reason to visit. There are day tours from Amman that will bring visitors to see the sites and drop them back off in Amman.
Book this Amman Day Tour on Get Your Guide
Amman to Jordan’s Desert Castles
If you want an off-the-beaten-path adventure, head out to see Jordan’s desert castles.
Book this excursion on Get Your Guide
Tours to do while in Amman
While the above tours focus on getting out of the city, make sure you do spend one day exploring Amman itself. If you are a foodie, we have developed something for you! Amman was missing a fod tour scene, so we created one! While in town we would love to show you the best eats on our Amman evening street food tour!
Amman Travel Resources
If you have just started the planning process of your trip, I have plenty of resources to help.
HOTELS: Best Accommodations in Amman
CAR RENTALS: Rentalcars.com
RESTAURANTS: Best Restaurants in Amman and Best places to have breakfast in Amman.
Overwhelmed with Planning a trip to Jordan?
Want to skip all of the planning and access my detailed Jordan Itinerary and Guide? I have been to Jordan several times and after being asked again and again for suggestions, not only did I build this website but I created an interactive PDF guide to help you plan the best trip to Jordan! It includes an interactive map, multiple itineraries for up to 10 days and as little as three days and plenty of practical information about renting a car and driving in Jordan. Get the guide by clicking the button below.
What to Pack for Amman:
Chap Stick (and lotion if you have dry skin) – Let me tell you, I do NOT have dry skin, but Jordan and much of the Middle East has a dry climate that many are not used to. Bring a good lip balm (I always travel with this one and you can get it on amazon here too) and your lips will thank you!
A Grayl Water Bottle is something I recommend for every traveller, not just those going to the Middle East. Some people say the water is safe to drink from the tap, others say it is not; it is not something I am going to chance. And Jordan has a HUGE garbage problem. The streets, the forests and even the desert are littered with plastic bottles.
An inexpensive Universal Travel Adapter is another must for Jordan. You will find an assortment of 220V plugs, from European 2 pin, another style of 2 pin and UK Plugs. While European 2 pin is most common, it is best to carry one of these adapters with you. With a handy USB input, you do not need to bring your plugs from home.
Kleenex or Wipes are another thing to put on your list. Jordan’s public washrooms (and even restaurant or hotel lobby washrooms can often be unstocked. Unless you are good with a bidet sprayer, bring yourself some kleenex or wipes just in case!
Travel Insurance for Jordan
There are a few other things to think about when it comes to travel. The first thing is travel insurance. Whether it is an emergency room visit for something as simple as strep throat, or an emergency appendix surgery, or an unfortunate moped incident things do go wrong when people travel everyday.
I highly suggest travel insurance and a good policy. I personally never travel without it, and I even checked into my policy about care for my children if I am ever in an accident or hospitalized. There are just too many things to think about.
You can find out more information and buy your travel insurance here.
Lindsay fell in love with Jordan when she first visited in 2016. She now goes back every year to explore more of this special place. Lindsay is also the owner of Amman Food Tours, a social enterprise that is women-owned and hires local female guides. This project provides meaningful employment for women in Amman.