Amman

Planning a trip to Amman, the capital of Jordan, travelers discover an amazing city built on seven hills, where ancient history intertwines with the modern rhythm of life in the Middle East. Reaching this colorful metropolis is easiest by plane, but for adventure lovers, overland routes from neighboring countries by car or bus are also available.

The city's main air gateway is Queen Alia International Airport, which receives flights from all over the world and is considered one of the most modern in the region. The airport is located south of the capital and ensures a comfortable arrival for millions of passengers annually.

As alternative options, one can consider flying to nearby cities in neighboring countries, for example, to Tel Aviv or Haifa, however, border crossing logistics should be taken into account. There is also the possibility of arriving via the airport in the city of Al Qurayyat in Saudi Arabia, which may be convenient when compiling complex itineraries across the Middle East.

Currently, there is no direct railway connection to Amman, as there is no operating passenger station within the city itself. The historical Hejaz Railway now functions primarily as a tourist attraction rather than a means of regular transport.

The nearest major railway hubs are located outside the country, for example, in Tel Aviv or Haifa. Travelers preferring trains will have to combine their trip with a bus or taxi to reach the Jordanian capital from the borders of neighboring states.

Bus services are a popular and affordable way to get to Amman, especially for travelers already in the Middle East. Comfortable buses run regularly between the capital and the region's main tourist centers, offering the chance to enjoy desert landscapes along the way.

Although the exact schedule of international routes may change, the city's central bus stations serve as reliable transport hubs. A bus trip is often chosen by tourists as a budget-friendly alternative to a taxi or rental car.

Traveling by car allows you to plan your route independently, however, it requires attention to border crossing regulations. One of the closest routes is the path from Tel Aviv, spanning about 164 km, which takes approximately 2.4 hours excluding time for customs procedures.

Travelers can also arrive from Haifa (distance 168 km, travel time about 3.1 hours) or from the Saudi Arabia side, from the city of Al Qurayyat, covering 197 km in 2.7 hours. It is recommended to clarify the conditions for driving a rental car in advance or arrange a transfer by taxi.

Preparing for a trip to Amman will help you feel confident and comfortable in this hospitable Middle Eastern city. Here are some practical recommendations to make your journey more pleasant.

1. Clothing and Belongings. Jordan is a country with conservative traditions, so it is recommended to wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees, especially when visiting old districts. Don't forget comfortable shoes for the hilly terrain and a warm sweater for cool evenings, even in summer.
2. Transport. Public transport can be confusing, so it is more convenient for tourists to use official yellow taxis or ride-hailing apps (Uber or Careem). Always ask the driver to turn on the meter.
3. Finances. The local currency is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). Cards are accepted in major hotels and restaurants, but be sure to carry cash for markets and small shops. Exchange offices are available everywhere.
4. Health and Safety. Drink only bottled water. The city is considered one of the safest in the region, but standard precautions against pickpockets in crowded places are advisable.
5. Communication. The official language is Arabic, but English is widely spoken in the tourism sector. Learning a couple of words, such as "Shukran" (thank you), will earn you a sincere smile from the locals.
6. Local Etiquette. Greetings are often accompanied by a handshake. If you are invited to a home or offered tea in a shop, refusal may be perceived as impoliteness — accept the treat as a sign of respect.
7. What to Avoid. Do not photograph government buildings or military personnel. Also, avoid public displays of affection and the consumption of alcohol on the streets outside of designated establishments.
8. Additional Tip. Friday is the weekend in Jordan; many institutions and shops may be closed or operate on a reduced schedule. Consider this when planning excursions.

Following these simple rules will help you immerse yourself deeper into the city's atmosphere and enjoy the famous Jordanian hospitality without unnecessary worries.