Madaba, a small city in Jordan, is well known for its exquisite mosaics and history. Madaba is just a short drive from the capital Amman. The place provides a fascinating look into the past. Visitors can explore historical artwork. The city is an excellent starting point for seeing neighboring sights including Mount Nebo and the Dead Sea. The friendly environment, mouthwatering cuisine, and intriguing culture of Madaba make it a must-visit destination for any visitor to Jordan. In this blog, we will explore the best things to do in Madaba to make you well-informed about this alluring destination.
Top 7 Things to Do in Madaba: Your Gateway to Ancient Wonders
Madaba is a wonderful place to visit if you want to learn about Jordan's past and culture. There are numerous things to do in Madaba. Apart from its religious and archeological attractions, it features a number of museums that provide insight into the historical daily life. The village is surrounded by hiking routes and beautiful gardens for those who like the outdoors. Madaba is well known for its glassblowing studios and stores that offer traditional handicrafts for those interested in arts and crafts. This list includes a range of interesting things to do in Madaba to satisfy all interests.
- Explore Madaba Archaeological Park
- Hike to Mount Nebo
- Learn about the city's history at the Madaba Archaeological Museum
- Explore the Baptism Site of Jesus Christ
- Experience the local culture at Old Town Market
- Take a trip to The Dead Sea
- Try traditional dishes of Jordan
1. Explore Madaba Archaeological Park
The Madaba Archaeological Park offers a glimpse into Madaba's past. While visiting Madaba, you can wander among the ruins of structures dating back to the Byzantine and Umayyad periods. This is one of the best things to do in Madaba. Here visitors can explore the remains of mosaics, a nymphaeum, and a basilica. Signage gives context about daily life back then. It's really fascinating to imagine what this area was like many centuries ago. The park is also peaceful for a walk, and this will be a new experience to stroll among the ruins and greenery.
Address: K. Talal St. 324, Madaba, Jordan
Open Hours: Tuesday to Thursday and Sunday- 08:00 A.M. to 06:00 P.M.
Monday- 08:30 A.M. to 06:00 P.M.
Friday and Saturday- 09:00 A.M. to 05:00 P.M.
Nearby Attractions:
- Mount Nebo
- St. John The Baptist Roman Catholic Church
- Memorial Church Of Moses
Nearby Hotels:
- Grand Hotel Madaba
- Mosaic City Hotel
- Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa
- Aitch Boutique Hotel - an LIH Hotel
Nearby Restaurants:
- Bawabit Madaba Restaurant & Cafe
- DANA Hills Restaurant
- Jaw Zaman Restaurant and Caffè
- Al-Mandi kitchen & Restaurant
- Fokar & Bhar Restaurant
2. Hike to Mount Nebo
Mount Nebo is one of the major tourist attractions in Madaba. This offers one of the spectacular views and also is an important religious site. A moderate hike to the top takes you to where Moses saw the Promised Land according to the Bible. Once at the summit, take in panoramic views of the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea, and Jerusalem on a clear day. The solemn atmosphere and historic value add to the experience. Nearby, see mosaics at the mosaic lobby and Byzantine church, learning more about the area's rich past. This is one of the best places to visit in Jordan. So, during your visit, make sure to hike Mount Nebo.
Address: Mount Nebo, Jordan
Open Hours:
5 am and 7 pm (April and October)
7 am to 7 pm (November to March)
Nearby Hotels:
- Gentle Breeze Studio 2
- Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa
- Ma'in Hot Springs
- Dead Sea Marriott Resort & Spa
- Crowne Plaza Jordan Dead Sea Resort & Spa, an IHG Hotel
Nearby Restaurants:
- Hekayet Nebo Restaurant
- Nebo Palace Restaurant
- Carob House
- Oak Tree Kitchen
- Fokar & Bhar, Medaba
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3. Learn about the City's History at the Madaba Archaeological Museum
Madaba Museum is a great starting point to understand Madaba's story through millennia. Galleries display objects from its earliest Canaanite inhabitants through Romans and Byzantines to today. Exhibits include mosaics, pottery, tools and everyday items. During your sightseeing in Madaba, you will learn how agriculture, religion and trade influenced daily life. Interactive signs tell the tale of Madaba's past. For those new to the area, it's a thoughtful way to add this to your things to do in Madaba, Jordan.
Address: Balqa St., Madaba, Jordan
Open Hours: Monday to Friday: 09:00 A.M. to 05:00 P.M.
Saturday and Sunday: Closed
Nearby Attractions:
- Mount Nebo
- St. John The Baptist Roman Catholic Church
- Memorial Church Of Moses
Nearby Hotels:
- Grand Hotel Madaba
- Mosaic City Hotel
- Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa
- Aitch Boutique Hotel - an LIH Hotel
Nearby Restaurants:
- Bawabit Madaba Restaurant & Cafe
- DANA Hills Restaurant
- Jaw Zaman Restaurant and Caffè
- Al-Mandi kitchen & Restaurant
- Fokar & Bhar Restaurant
Suggested Read: Cafes In Jordan To Enjoy The Jordanian Culture
4. Explore the Baptism Site of Jesus Christ
Visit one of Christianity's most important sites and major attractions in Madaba. Baptism Site of Jesus Christ is situated on the banks of the Jordan River where John the Baptist is believed to have baptized Jesus. Admire the riverside promenade and baptismal pools while reflecting on Biblical tales. Visitors can also visit the nearby chapel that displays artifacts including an ancient baptismal font. Walk along gardens overlooking the river, imagining Jesus' baptism. It's an introspective experience whether religious or not, to contemplate the significance of this holy landscape and makes it as one of the best places to visit in Jordan.
Address: Juwafat al-Kafrayn, Jordan
Open Hours: 08:30 A.M. to 05:00 P.M.
Nearby Attractions:
- Mount Nebo
- St. John The Baptist Roman Catholic Church
- Memorial Church Of Moses
Nearby Hotels:
- Grand Hotel Madaba
- Mosaic City Hotel
- Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa
- Aitch Boutique Hotel - an LIH Hotel
Nearby Restaurants:
- Bawabit Madaba Restaurant & Cafe
- DANA Hills Restaurant
- Jaw Zaman Restaurant and Caffè
- Al-Mandi kitchen & Restaurant
- Fokar & Bhar Restaurant
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5. Experience the Local Culture at Old Town Market
Old Town Market is a hub of everyday Madaba life. Meander among busy stalls overflowing with fresh seasonal fruits, vegetables, spices and more. Take time to observe sellers and shoppers and interactions among the vibrant scents and colors. Chat with vendors for insights into local culture and products. Sample snacks or take home homemade goods. Soaking in the lively chaotic energy of this busy local market offers a glimpse into Madaba's social fabric. So, if you are shopaholic and confused on shopping In Jordan, make sure to visit this market.
Address: Madaba, Jordan
Open Hours: Tuesday- 09:00 A.M. to 08:30 P.M.
Saturday to Monday, Wednesday and Thursday- 09:00 A.M. to 08:00 A.M.
Friday- Closed
Nearby Attractions:
- Mount Nebo
- St. John The Baptist Roman Catholic Church
- Memorial Church Of Moses
Nearby Hotels:
- Grand Hotel Madaba
- Mosaic City Hotel
- Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa
- Aitch Boutique Hotel - an LIH Hotel
Nearby Restaurants:
- Bawabit Madaba Restaurant & Cafe
- DANA Hills Restaurant
- Jaw Zaman Restaurant and Caffè
- Al-Mandi kitchen & Restaurant
- Fokar & Bhar Restaurant
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6. Take a Trip to the Dead Sea
A trip to the Dead Sea presents breathtaking natural scenery and healing mineral-rich waters. This is a one of the mesmerizing things to do in Jordan. Float serenely on its hypersaline waters, see the unique shore wildlife like flowers growing from bare cliffs. Wander the beach or hike on nearby nature trails and canyons taking in diverse desert vistas. The sea's calm beauty and restorative properties provide welcome relaxation after exploring Madaba's sights. A short distance away yet markedly different, the Dead Sea is a quintessential Jordan experience combining landscape grandness with rejuvenation.
Address: Madaba, Jordan
Open Hours: 24 hours
Nearby Attractions:
- Jerash Ruins
- Mount Nebo
- Ma'in Hot Springs
- The Citadel
- The Baptism Site Of Jesus Christ
Nearby Hotels:
- Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa
- Crowne Plaza Jordan - Dead Sea Resort & Spa
- Holiday Inn Resort Dead Sea
- Ramada Resort by Wyndham Dead Sea
- Merritt Dead Sea resort
Nearby Restaurants:
- Almira Restaurant
- Beit Sweimeh
- Elite Restaurant and Cafe
- Dead Sea Museum
- Burj Al Hamam Dead Sea
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7. Try Traditional Dishes of Jordan
No visit to Madaba is complete without sampling Jordan's iconic cuisine. Food in Jordan is magical. Local restaurants serve classic mezze like baba ghanoush, hummus and waraq ‘enab, along with stews and hot dishes such as mansaf and musakhan. Grilled meats complement dishes flavored with flavors from the region like sumac and Alepppo pepper. Save space for sweet pastries like baklawa, kunafa and halawet el-jaish (coffee candy) for dessert. Enjoy the gracious hospitality alongside traditional flavors that reflect Madaba's culinary heritage.
Restaurants:
- Carob House
- Fokar & Bhar
- Haret Jdoudna
- Medab
- Mrah Salameh
- Jaw Zaman Restaurant and Caffe
- Adonis Restaurant
Dishes: Mansaf, Zarb, Maqluba, Hummus, Baba Ghanoush, Shakshuka, Fattoush, Tabouleh, Chicken Musakhan, Warak Enab, Moutabal, and Kunafa
Madaba has an excellent variety of attractions showcasing history, culture, art and the natural beauty surrounding the town. With top sites like museums, churches, cultural handicraft workshops, a castle and hiking trails, history and nature lovers will both find plenty of things to do in Madaba and this will keep them engaged for a day or more. Book Jordan tour packages and indulge in these mesmerizing things that you will cherish for the rest of your life.
Things to Do in Madaba FAQs
In Madaba, you can explore the archaeological park and Mount Nebo for historical insights. Try local cuisine at restaurants and shop at the Handicraft Center. You can also enjoy the nearby Dead Sea, and this provides a unique experience.
At Mount Nebo, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Jordan Valley. The site is believed to be where Moses viewed the Promised Land. There is also a memorial and a small church. It holds great significance for many pilgrims.
The Baptism Site of Jesus Christ is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is believed to be where Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist. Visitors can see archaeological remains and the Jordan River. It is a popular site for Christian pilgrims.
You can buy local handicrafts at the Handicraft Center in Madaba. The center offers handmade items such as ceramics and textiles. Many artisans work on-site, showcasing their skills. Shopping here supports local artists and the economy.
In Madaba, you should try traditional dishes like Mansaf and Falafel. Other popular options include Hummus and Kebabs. Local restaurants serve these dishes fresh and flavorful. Trying the cuisine is a great way to experience the culture.
Yes, there are local markets in Madaba, including Old Town Market. These markets offer fresh produce, spices, and traditional crafts. Visiting the markets allows for interaction with local vendors. It is a lively place to shop and explore.
The Madaba Archaeological Museum features artifacts from different historical periods. Visitors can see ancient pottery, coins, and tools. The museum provides context about Madaba’s cultural heritage. It is a good stop for history enthusiasts.
The Dead Sea is about a 30-minute drive from Madaba. You can take a taxi or rent a car for convenience. Some tours may also offer transportation to the Dead Sea. It is a popular day trip option.
Yes, there are hiking trails around Mount Nebo. These trails provide beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. Hiking allows for a closer look at the natural beauty of the area. It is a popular activity for outdoor enthusiasts.
Madaba hosts various cultural events throughout the year. These may include festivals, exhibitions, and music performances. Attending these events provides insight into local traditions. Check local listings for upcoming activities during your visit.
