Getting Around Amman 2025
Navigate Amman like a local with our transportation guide.
Amman is Jordan's dynamic capital city, a fascinating blend of ancient history and modern urban life set across a dramatic hillside landscape. The city is home to Roman ruins, vibrant souks, world-class restaurants, and a thriving arts scene, making it one of the Middle East's most compelling destinations.
Transportation Overview
Quick comparison of transport options in Amman.
Public Transit
Amman's public bus network is limited for tourists — infrequent schedules, Arabic-only signage, and no easy route information. JETT buses work well for intercity travel.
Taxis
Yellow metered taxis are abundant and affordable. Always insist on the meter starting. Uber and Careem are often more convenient — cashless and transparent.
Car Rental
Car rental is good value and opens up Jordan's countryside, but driving in central Amman is stressful. Consider a driver rather than self-drive for day trips.
Walking
Individual neighborhoods (Rainbow Street, downtown Balad, Jabal Al Luweibdeh) are very walkable. Moving between neighborhoods typically requires wheels due to the hilly terrain.
Getting There
How to arrive in Amman.
✈️ By Air
Queen Alia International Airport
Jordan's main international airport serving over 30 airlines with connections across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and North Africa. The terminal is modern and well-equipped with duty-free shopping, restaurants, and banking facilities.
Marka Airport (King Hussein International Airport)
Amman's older, secondary airport handling limited domestic and regional flights. Significantly closer to downtown than Queen Alia. Primarily used for Royal Jordanian domestic connections and charter flights.
Airport Transfer Options
Complete Transportation Guide
Route guides, fare information, and transport app recommendations.
Local Transportation
Getting around within Amman.
Uber and Careem are the recommended ways to navigate Amman for tourists. The city's hilly layout and lack of a metro make these apps essential for comfortable travel.
Uber/Careem app
Metered yellow taxi
Walking within neighborhoods (Rainbow Street, downtown)
Private driver for day trips
🚌 Buses
Local buses charge JOD 0.35–0.70 per ride on fixed routes — practical only if you know the routes well. Not recommended for tourists.
🛺 Local Alternatives
Uber and Careem cover virtually all of Amman and are the practical choice for tourists. Many hotels arrange trusted taxi drivers for extended stays.
Intercity Travel
Getting between cities and regions.
JETT buses connect Amman to major Jordanian cities. Private shared taxis and tour operators also run routes to Petra, Aqaba, and Irbid. The King Hussein Bridge serves travelers crossing to/from the West Bank and Israel.
Long-Distance Buses
JETT buses to Aqaba (JOD 10, 4 hours), Irbid (JOD 3, 1.5 hours), Dead Sea (JOD 5, 1 hour)
Shared Taxis/Minivans
Shared taxis (service) available from North Station (Mahatta) to Jerash, Irbid, and nearby towns — JOD 1.50–3 per seat
Domestic Flights
Royal Jordanian operates domestic flights from Marka Airport to Aqaba (Queen Alia also serves Aqaba)
Private Car/Driver
Private car hire with driver from JOD 40/day — arrange through hotel for reliability
Driving in Amman
Information for self-driving travelers.
Recommended?
Yes
Driving Side
right
License Required
International Driving Permit recommended alongside your home country license
Road Conditions
Amman's road network is generally good but traffic is heavy particularly around peak hours (7–9 AM, 1–3 PM, 5–7 PM). Signage is in both Arabic and English in most areas. Roundabouts are common. Parking in downtown is very difficult.
Driving Considerations
- Research local driving laws and road conditions before deciding to drive
- Consider hiring a driver instead - often affordable and less stressful
- Ensure comprehensive insurance if renting a vehicle
- Avoid driving at night in unfamiliar areas
- Keep copies of all documents (license, insurance, rental agreement)
Transportation Tips
Essential advice for getting around.
Download the Uber and Careem apps before arriving in Amman — they work immediately and are safer than street taxis
If taking a yellow taxi, insist the driver starts the meter ('Istakhdem al-'addad') — most will comply
The official airport taxi counter inside arrivals prevents price gouging — always use this for airport pickups
Friday and Saturday nights after midnight can be very busy for taxis — book an Uber in advance
Ask your hotel or hostel to recommend a reliable taxi driver for day trips — they often have trusted contacts
Traffic is worst Sunday–Thursday, 7–9 AM and 4–7 PM — leave extra time during peak hours
JETT buses to the Dead Sea run only a few times per day — book the earliest departure for maximum beach time
Hiring a private driver for Jerash + Ajloun in one day is excellent value at around JOD 40–50 total
Useful Apps
Uber
Best for convenience — English interface, cashless payment, upfront pricing. Available throughout Amman including the airport.
Careem
Regional alternative to Uber, very popular in Jordan. Similar features and pricing. Sometimes offers better deals during promotions.
JETT Bus App
Jordan's main intercity bus operator — book tickets to Aqaba, Dead Sea, and other destinations online.
Navigate Amman Like a Local
Get our complete transport guide with route planners, fare guides, and essential travel phrases.
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