Things To Do
in Aţ Ţurrah

Aţ Ţurrah is a small rural community in northern Jordan set among olive groves and rolling limestone hills, offering an authentic look at village life away from major tourist hubs. The area serves as a quiet base for day trips to nearby natural reserves and historical sites in the Ajloun–Irbid region. Local architecture mixes simple stone houses, terraced fields and narrow lanes that are atmospheric at sunrise and sunset.

Visitors will find friendly hosts, basic services in the village and larger amenities a short drive away in nearby towns.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Jordanian dishes like falafel and ful medames. After breakfast, take a stroll through the charming streets of Aţ Ţurrah, admiring the unique architecture that showcases the city's rich history. Visit the ancient ruins of the Roman theater, where the echoes of performances still linger in the air.

afternoon
:

For lunch, indulge in a hearty meal at a nearby restaurant, sampling regional specialties. Post-lunch, explore the vibrant local markets, where you can haggle for handcrafted souvenirs and spices that reflect the culture of the region. Don’t miss the chance to interact with local artisans, gaining insight into their crafts and stories.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a rooftop terrace to enjoy panoramic views of Aţ Ţurrah bathed in golden light. Relish a dinner featuring grilled meats and fresh vegetables, accompanied by traditional music that enhances the atmosphere. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, soaking in the charm of the town at night.

day 2
Cultural Immersion and Local Cuisine
morning
:

Begin the day with a cooking class, where you will learn to prepare classic Jordanian dishes such as mansaf and maqluba. Enjoy the aromas and flavors of fresh ingredients as you engage with a local chef who shares the secrets of their culinary heritage. After the class, enjoy the fruits of your labor over a communal meal.

afternoon
:

Visit the local museum to delve deeper into Aţ Ţurrah's history, exploring exhibitions that showcase its archaeological significance. Spend time discussing with the knowledgeable staff about the artifacts and their importance to Jordan's past. Following your museum visit, take a leisurely stroll through the artistic districts, appreciating murals and local art.

evening
:

Enjoy an authentic dinner at a family-run restaurant, where you can taste flavorful mezze dishes while mingling with locals. After dinner, attend a cultural performance featuring traditional dance and music, offering a glimpse into the vibrant Jordanian culture. Reflect on your experiences over a cup of sweet mint tea at a nearby café.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$5-8
Coffee or tea at a cafe$1-3
🚕Short taxi or service ride$2-7
🏨Budget guesthouse / simple hotel (per night)$20-45
🛣️Day trip transport (shared/private)$15-60

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Authentic rural Jordanian experience with friendly locals
  • Easy access to nearby natural reserves and historical sites
  • Excellent seasonal photography opportunities (olive groves, rolling hills)
  • Lower tourist crowds compared with major Jordanian destinations
  • Limited accommodation and dining options within the village
  • Public transport is sparse—a car or arranged transport is useful
  • Basic services and healthcare are a short drive away
  • Summer can be hot and winters chilly with occasional rain
  • "مرحبا (Marhaba)" - Hello
  • "شكرا (Shukran)" - Thank you
  • "من فضلك (Min fadlak / ik)" - Please
  • "كم السعر؟ (Bikam?)" - How much?
  • "أين...؟ (Ayn...?)" - Where is...?
  • "نعم / لا (Na'am / La)" - Yes / No
  • "هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟ (Hal tatakallam al-Ingleeziya?)" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Aţ Ţurrah

Visit one of these nice places.

Village Overlook

A hilltop vantage point above Aţ Ţurrah offers sweeping views of terraced fields and stone houses—excellent at sunrise and sunset for golden light.

Olive Groves and Terraced Fields

Patterns of olive trees and low stone walls create textured landscapes ideal for wide-angle and detail shots, especially during harvest season.

Traditional Stone Houses and Lanes

Narrow lanes, wooden doors and stone masonry provide intimate architectural portraits and candid street photography opportunities.

Ajloun Forest Reserve (nearby)

Dense pine and oak forests, viewpoints and winding trails give opportunities for nature and wildlife photography, especially in spring when wildflowers bloom.

Umm Qais / Northern Ruins (day trip)

If you travel slightly farther, the ruins and cliff-edge views at Umm Qais offer dramatic panoramas over the Jordan Valley and the Sea of Galilee.

Culinary Guide

Food in Aţ Ţurrah

The local cuisine around Aţ Ţurrah reflects traditional Jordanian flavors: lamb and yogurt-based dishes, mezze, fresh vegetables, olive oil from local groves, and simple sweets. Meals are communal and family-style in many places, and you’ll find both home-cooked food and small village eateries serving hearty portions.

Aţ Ţurrah Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Mansaf

Jordan's national dish—rice and lamb cooked in a fermented dried yogurt sauce (jameed), often served at celebrations; try it at family-run restaurants in nearby towns or special village meals.

Must-Try!

Maqluba

A layered rice, vegetable and meat dish inverted on a platter so it presents like a cake; common in family kitchens and casual restaurants.

Falafel and Hummus

Widely available street or cafe fare—crispy falafel balls with fresh hummus, tahini and pita make a quick, affordable meal in local markets.

Knafeh

A sweet cheese pastry soaked in syrup and topped with pistachios, found at dessert shops and bakery stalls in nearby towns.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local Village Market

Weekly or periodic market (souq) in the nearest town where farmers sell olives, olive oil, cheeses, fresh produce and simple street foods like falafel and shawarma.

Nearby Towns' Markets

Larger weekly markets in nearby towns offer spices, nuts, homemade sweets and small eateries where you can sample a variety of mezze and grilled items.

Climate Guide

Weather

Aţ Ţurrah experiences a Mediterranean-influenced climate with hot, dry summers and cool, wetter winters. Spring and autumn are mild and generally the most comfortable seasons for travel. Rain falls mainly between November and March, and higher terrain can be noticeably cooler than low-lying areas.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress and Modesty

Dress modestly—shoulders and knees covered for both men and women in village settings and when visiting religious sites. Women may prefer a lightweight scarf for visits to mosques.

Greetings and Hospitality

Warm, polite greetings (handshakes between same-gender visitors) are common; hospitality is important and you may be offered tea or coffee—accepting once is polite.

Photography Sensitivities

Ask permission before photographing people, especially women and older residents. Avoid photographing inside private homes without consent.

Religious Observance

Be mindful during Ramadan—eating, drinking or smoking in public during daylight hours may be frowned upon; many businesses have modified hours during the holy month.

Safety Guide

Safety

Aţ Ţurrah and the surrounding region are generally safe for travelers; petty crime is uncommon but take normal precautions (watch belongings, secure valuables). Rural roads can be narrow—drive cautiously, especially at night. Carry emergency contact numbers, drink bottled water if unsure of local supply, and inform hosts of travel plans if trekking in remote areas.

Tipping in Aţ Ţurrah

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is customary but not mandatory—about 10% in restaurants if service isn't included, a small amount for drivers or hotel staff, and rounding up for taxis. For guides and drivers on private tours, 5–10% or a modest cash tip is appreciated.

Payment Methods

The Jordanian dinar (JOD) is the local currency; cash is king in villages and small shops, while credit/debit cards are accepted in larger towns and hotels. ATMs are available in nearby towns—carry enough cash for rural expenses.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and dry at lower elevations with temperatures often in the high 20s–30s °C (80s–90s °F); inland hills stay cooler in mornings and evenings. Carry water, sun protection and plan strenuous outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.

Autumn

Mild temperatures and easing of summer heat make autumn a pleasant time for hiking and visiting olive groves; occasional rains may start late in the season.

Winter

Cool to chilly with potential for rain; higher hills can be cold and occasionally see sleet or light snow in colder spells—pack warm layers and rain gear.

Spring

Arable landscapes come alive with wildflowers and comfortable temperatures—this is one of the best times for outdoor activities, photography and local festivals connected to the harvest.

Nightlife Guide

Aţ Ţurrah at Night

Nightlife in Aţ Ţurrah is very low-key—expect quiet evenings, family gatherings and small cafes. For bars, clubs and a more vibrant nightlife you’ll need to travel to larger cities such as Irbid or Amman, where restaurants, cultural events and late-night venues are available.

Hiking in Aţ Ţurrah

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Ajloun Forest Reserve

A mix of pine and oak woodlands with marked trails, lookout points, and wildlife—good for half-day to full-day hikes, nature photography and birdwatching.

Dibeen Forest Reserve

Known for its dense oak forests and biodiversity, Dibeen offers quieter trails and shaded routes especially pleasant in spring and autumn.

Umm Qais Ridge Trails

Trails around the ruins and clifftop area at Umm Qais provide sweeping views of the Jordan Valley and the Sea of Galilee, plus a mix of history and landscape.

Local Ridge and Olive Grove Walks

Informal footpaths through terraced fields and between groves around Aţ Ţurrah—suitable for shorter walks and sunrise/sunset outings.

Airports

How to reach Aţ Ţurrah by plane.

Queen Alia International Airport (AMM)

Jordan's main international airport near Amman—about 1.5–2.5 hours' drive depending on traffic; offers international connections and car rental services.

Amman–Marka International Airport (OMF)

A smaller airport closer to Amman used for regional and some domestic flights; useful for certain connections but with limited international services.

King Hussein International Airport (AQJ)

Located in Aqaba on the Red Sea—significantly farther away but an option for some regional itineraries and low-cost carriers; expect several hours' drive to reach Aţ Ţurrah.

Getting Around

Walkability

Aţ Ţurrah is compact and easy to explore on foot within the village; however, the surrounding terrain is hilly and distances between attractions may require a car or taxi. Narrow lanes and uneven surfaces are common—comfortable shoes are recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Jordanian Villagers

Predominantly settled Arab Jordanian families engaged in agriculture, small trade and local services—many work olive groves and farms.

Palestinian-origin Communities

Nearby towns and the broader region include families of Palestinian origin; communities are integrated into local social and economic life.

Religious Communities

The area includes Muslim majorities with Christian minorities in nearby towns—both communities coexist and are visible in cultural life and local celebrations.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular sport across Jordan—local teams and youth leagues are commonly followed and informal matches are frequent in towns and villages.

Basketball

Played at schools and community centers; popular among young people in urban and semi-urban areas.

Equestrian and Traditional Riding

Horseback riding and traditional equestrian activities have cultural importance, especially in rural areas and festivals.

Transportation

Traffic

Roads near Aţ Ţurrah are mostly rural and can be narrow; traffic congestion is minimal locally but can be heavy near larger towns and Amman. Public transport includes shared minibuses and service taxis connecting to nearby towns—schedules are informal, so plan for flexible timing. Renting a car or arranging a driver is the most convenient option for exploring the area.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Aţ Ţurrah.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are common—mezze plates (hummus, baba ghanoush, tabbouleh), falafel, and grilled vegetables. Always ask about broths or sauces made with meat. Carry clear phrases (or a translation card) to explain no meat or no animal stock.

Vegan / Gluten-free

Vegan options exist among vegetable mezze and salads but check for dairy in sauces like jameed. Gluten-free choices can be found (grilled meats, rice dishes) but breads and pastries are common, so communicate needs clearly.

Halal and Religious Considerations

Most meat served is halal in Jordanian villages, and restaurants generally observe Islamic dietary norms; if you have specific requirements, confirm with the cook or owner.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic medical care is available at clinics in nearby towns; for more advanced treatment, hospitals in Irbid or Amman provide wider services and specialists. Carry any required medications, travel insurance with medical evacuation if needed, and know the location of the nearest clinic before arrival.

Discover Jordan

Read more in our Jordan 2025 Travel Guide.

Jordan Travel Guide