Things To Do
in As Salţ
As-Salt sits on a limestone plateau overlooking the Jordan Valley. The town blends Ottoman-era stone houses, winding lanes, and a long history as a cultural crossroads. It is known for hospitable residents, bustling markets, and atmospheric hilltop viewpoints.
In recent years it has become a quieter base for exploring central Jordan while retaining a distinct, village-like charm.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by strolling through the charming streets of As Salţ, where you can admire the unique Ottoman architecture. Visit the Al-Ashrafiyeh Mosque, an architectural gem that showcases intricate designs and beautiful tile work. Enjoy a traditional Jordanian breakfast at a local café, sampling dishes like falafel and labneh.
Spend the afternoon at the Archaeological Museum of Salt, where you can explore artifacts from the region that tell the story of its rich history. Take a guided tour to learn about the ancient civilizations that once thrived here and their contributions to modern Jordan. Don't forget to wander through the local markets, where you can find handmade crafts and souvenirs.
As the sun sets, make your way to a rooftop restaurant to enjoy a panoramic view of the city while savoring a delicious dinner featuring local specialties. Engage with locals and fellow travelers to share stories and experiences over a traditional meal. End your day with a leisurely walk through the historic streets, illuminated by soft lights.
Start your day with a visit to a local cooking class, where you'll learn how to prepare authentic Jordanian dishes like mansaf and mezze. The hands-on experience will not only teach you about the ingredients but also the cultural significance of each dish in Jordanian society. Enjoy the fruits of your labor as you savor your homemade breakfast.
Spend the afternoon exploring the local art scene by visiting galleries and studios that showcase the work of regional artists. Engage with artists and learn about their inspirations and techniques, allowing you to appreciate the cultural fabric of As Salţ. You might also want to participate in a pottery workshop to create your own piece of art.
Dine at a traditional Jordanian restaurant where you can indulge in a feast of local flavors, accompanied by live music. Sample various dishes that highlight the diverse culinary heritage of the region, while enjoying the warm ambiance of the restaurant. After dinner, take a leisurely walk around the town center, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚌Local transit ticket | $0.5-1 |
| 🥙Street food snack | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel night | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and architecture
- Calm, less crowded than Amman
- Friendly locals and good food
- Close-knit markets and cultural experiences
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Winding streets can be hilly and get crowded
- Fewer English-speaking staff in some places
- Some sites may require travel to Amman for major attractions
- "Salam Alaikum" - Hello / Peace be upon you
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Min fadlik" - Please
- "Kam althaman?" - How much is this?
- "Ayna al-hamam?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Ana min..." - I am from...
Places to Visit in As Salţ
Visit one of these nice places.
Terraced views over stone houses and minarets with the Jordan Valley in the distance.
An elevated vantage near the town walls where the sun rises over the hillside.
Photo opportunities among arching doorways and bustling market life.
Hiking routes lead to hilltop terraced landscapes and sunset silhouettes of rooftops.
Food in As Salţ
As Salţ Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Lamb cooked in a thick yogurt sauce served with rice and bulgur; a Jordanian staple often found in family-run restaurants.
Must-Try!
Sumac-spiced chicken roasted with onions on flatbread, a hearty, iconic Jordanian dish.
Upside-down rice dish with meat and vegetables, usually cooked for gatherings.
Classic chickpea dips and fried balls, widely available at casual eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A traditional market where locals shop for produce, spices, breads, and ready-to-eat street bites.
Cafes offering coffee, mint tea, and small plates like manakish and sfiha.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Salam Alaikum' and offer a handshake or nod; address elders with respect.
Calm, modest clothing is appreciated, especially in religious sites and rural areas.
Bargaining is common in markets; do so with a smile and a sense of humor.
Ask permission before photographing people or private spaces; some areas require consent.
Safety
Tipping in As Salţ
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, it’s common to leave 10-15% if service isn’t included; small tips for cafe staff and guides are appreciated.
Credit cards are accepted in many tourist-focused places, but cash is widely used; carry JOD and USD-friendly notes for markets and small shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming hills; ideal for walking and photography; bring a light jacket for cooler evenings.
Hot days with strong sun; best for early morning and late afternoon exploration; carry water and hats.
Warm days with cooler nights; great for outdoor activities and markets.
Mild to cool with occasional rain; pack a jacket and waterproofs; some sites may have limited access after rain.
As Salţ at Night
Hiking in As Salţ
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic, moderate hike above the town with views over the Jordan Valley and terraced fields.
A longer ridge walk accessible with a car ride from Salt offering dramatic desert landscapes.
Airports
How to reach As Salţ by plane.
Main international gateway to Jordan, located near Amman, about 20-40 minutes from Amman city center; connections to domestic flights and international routes.
A smaller airport in the Amman area offering domestic flights and occasional charters; check current status for passenger services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Jordanian Arabs with historical influences from Palestinian and Circassian communities; a mix of long-time families and newer residents.
Some foreign professionals and volunteers living in Amman and day-tripping to Al-Salt.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, with local clubs and community matches across Jordan.
Common in schools and community centers, with casual games in towns and parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting As Salţ.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Jordanian dishes are meat-centered, but mezze and vegetarian options such as hummus, falafel, mutabbal, and vegetable makloubeh are widely available. Ask for dishes without meat or with simple cheese and vegetables; many restaurants can accommodate dairy-free or egg-free requests.