7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Amman

As a digital nomad living in Amman, you have the unique opportunity to blend the convenience of city life with the allure of Middle Eastern adventure. While Amman itself offers a rich tapestry of culture and history, the weekends are your chance to explore beyond the city limits. From the sweeping deserts to the tranquil Dead Sea, and hidden gems tucked away in the Jordanian landscape, there's a weekend getaway to suit every taste. Here are seven destinations that promise to rejuvenate your spirit and satisfy your wanderlust.

Jerash

Just a short drive from Amman, Jerash is a feast for the eyes and the soul for history buffs and culture enthusiasts. Known for its well-preserved Roman ruins, including the Hadrian's Arch, the Hippodrome, and the Temple of Artemis, Jerash offers a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient civilizations. The Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts, usually held in July, transforms the city into a lively hub of music, dance, and theatrical performances.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Jerash is by car or bus, which takes about an hour from Amman.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chariot races and gladiator shows in the Hippodrome for a truly immersive historical experience.

Where to Stay: The Hadrian's Gate Hotel provides comfortable accommodations with easy access to the ruins. For a more luxurious stay, consider the Olive Branch Hotel which offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.

Where to Eat: The Lebanese House Restaurant is a favorite among visitors, famous for its mezze and grilled dishes.

The Dead Sea

The Dead Sea is one of the most popular weekend getaways from Amman, and for good reason. As the lowest point on Earth, it offers a unique floating experience due to its high salinity. The mineral-rich mud is also known for its therapeutic properties. Resorts along the shore provide luxurious spa treatments and the opportunity for a relaxing weekend.

How to Get There: The Dead Sea is about an hour's drive from Amman. Renting a car or taking a taxi are the most convenient options.

Travel Tip: Visit the Dead Sea at sunset for a breathtaking view as the sun dips below the mountains of the West Bank.

Where to Stay: The Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea offers opulent accommodations and an infinity pool with stunning sea views. Movenpick Resort & Spa is another excellent choice with a revitalizing spa.

Where to Eat: The Burj Al Hamam restaurant at the Movenpick Resort is renowned for its traditional Middle Eastern dishes and views of the Dead Sea.

Ajloun Forest Reserve

For nature lovers and hikers, the Ajloun Forest Reserve is a refreshing escape into the wild. The reserve is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the evergreen oak, pine trees, and wild boar. There are several trails for all levels of hikers, offering stunning views of the Jordanian countryside.

How to Get There: Ajloun Forest Reserve is approximately 1.5 hours by car from Amman.

Travel Tip: Stay overnight in one of the reserve's cabins or bungalows to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area.

Where to Stay: The Ajloun Cabins, managed by the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature, offer a rustic yet comfortable experience.

Where to Eat: The reserve has a restaurant that serves local organic food, perfect for a post-hike meal.

Umm Qais

Umm Qais, with its stunning views over the Sea of Galilee and the Golan Heights, is a site of ancient Gadara. Here, you can explore the ruins of a Decapolis city that once thrived under Roman rule. The blend of Greco-Roman and Ottoman architecture, along with the peaceful atmosphere, makes Umm Qais a fascinating off-the-beaten-path destination.

How to Get There: Umm Qais is about 2 hours by car from Amman.

Travel Tip: Visit the Umm Qais Museum, housed in an Ottoman-era building, to learn more about the history and artifacts of the area.

Where to Stay: Options are limited in Umm Qais, but the Beit Al Baraka Bed and Breakfast offers a charming and authentic stay.

Where to Eat: The Resthouse Umm Qais offers traditional Jordanian cuisine with a view that overlooks the ancient ruins and the Yarmouk Nature Reserve.

Wadi Mujib

Wadi Mujib, often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of Jordan," is a must-visit for adventure seekers. This nature reserve offers a variety of activities, from hiking the Siq Trail to canyoning in the Mujib Gorge. The reserve is also a haven for bird watchers, with several rare species making their home in the area.

How to Get There: Wadi Mujib is around an hour's drive from Amman, located near the Dead Sea.

Travel Tip: Make sure to bring waterproof bags for your electronics and a change of clothes – you will get wet!

Where to Stay: The Mujib Chalets, operated by the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature, offer simple yet stunning accommodations right on the shores of the Dead Sea.

Where to Eat: The chalets have a restaurant that serves buffet-style meals, perfect for refueling after a day of adventure.

Pella (Tabaqat Fahl)

Pella, or Tabaqat Fahl, is one of Jordan's most ancient sites and a treasure trove for archaeology enthusiasts. Far less crowded than more famous historical sites, Pella offers a serene atmosphere where you can explore ruins that span over several millennia, including Roman roads, Byzantine churches, and early Islamic residential quarters.

How to Get There: Pella is approximately 1.5 hours by car from Amman.

Travel Tip: Visit during the spring when the surrounding hills are lush and green, providing a stunning contrast to the ancient stone ruins.

Where to Stay: Accommodations are limited in the immediate area, but the nearby town of Irbid offers several hotel options.

Where to Eat: Local eateries in the town of Tabaqat Fahl serve traditional Jordanian dishes, offering an authentic dining experience.

As-Salt

As-Salt is a hidden gem that exudes an old-world charm with its Ottoman-style architecture and ancient alleyways. Recently nominated for UNESCO World Heritage status, this town offers a glimpse into traditional Jordanian life. The As-Salt Archaeological Museum and the Abu Jaber Mansion are must-visits for a dose of history and culture.

How to Get There: As-Salt is just a 40-minute drive from Amman, making it an easy day trip or overnight stay.

Travel Tip: Take a guided walking tour to learn about the city's history and visit the local handicraft shops.

Where to Stay: The Beit Aziz Boutique Hotel provides a cozy stay in a beautifully restored Ottoman house.

Where to Eat: Al-Khedr Green Roof Top Café offers traditional meals and panoramic views of the city's rooftops and minarets.

Each of these destinations offers a unique experience that can enrich your life as a digital nomad in Jordan. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deep dive into history, these weekend getaways from Amman are sure to leave you with lasting memories.