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Madaba

Jordan, Middle East

Madaba, known as the "City of Mosaics," is famous for its stunning Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics, particularly the Mosaic Map of Jerusalem in St. George's Church. This charming town offers a rich tapestry of history, ancient churches, and friendly local culture. Just a short drive from the breathtaking landscapes of Mount Nebo and the Dead Sea, Madaba serves as a cultural and historical hub, making it ideal for those wishing to explore both heritage and natural wonders in Jordan.

Quick facts

Target stay

2-3 days

Type

Town

Vibe

History

Airport

Queen Alia

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

10 Best Things to Do in Madaba

1. Explore St. George's Church

Home to the famous mosaic map of the Holy Land.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

2. Visit the Madaba Archaeological Museum

Showcases artifacts from ancient civilizations in the region.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

3. Discover the Madaba Mosaic Map

A stunning 6th-century mosaic depicting Biblical sites.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

< 1 hr

4. Taste local cuisine at a traditional restaurant

Savor authentic Jordanian dishes like mansaf and falafel.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

5. Explore Mount Nebo

Visit the site where Moses is said to have seen the Promised Land.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

6. Shop at the Madaba Souk

Find unique handicrafts and souvenirs from local artisans.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

7. Visit the Church of the Virgin Mary

Admire the beautiful mosaics and architecture of this church.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

8. Take a guided tour of Madaba

Learn about the rich history and culture from a local guide.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

2 hrs

9. Relax at a local café

Enjoy a cup of Arabic coffee or tea in a cozy spot.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

10. Explore the ruins of the Church of the Virgin

Discover ancient ruins and beautiful mosaics.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~5-10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-10 (#143 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Jordanian Dinar

Majority religion

Muslim

Language

Arabic

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Mansaf

Traditional lamb dish with yogurt sauce. (National dish)

Maqluba

V

Upside-down rice and vegetable dish.

Falafel

VE

Deep-fried chickpea balls, popular snack.

Kanafeh

V

Sweet pastry soaked in syrup, cheese-filled.

Zarb

Slow-cooked meat and vegetables in a pit.

Phrases to learn

English

Arabic

Hello

Marhaban

(Mar-ha-ban)

Yes/No

Naam / La

(Nah-am / Lah)

Thank you

Shukran

(Shook-ran)

Excuse me

Afwan

(Ahf-wan)

How much?

Kam?

(Kam)