Things To Do
in Az Zarqā’
Az Zarqa’, Jordan is a bustling central Jordanian city with a distinctly urban and family-friendly atmosphere. Located northeast of Amman along the Zarqa River, the city blends modern markets with traditional eateries and lively neighborhoods. It serves as a practical base for exploring northern Jordan and the Jordan Valley, with straightforward roads and steady transport links.
Expect warm hospitality, a vibrant street life, and a growing scene of cafes and shops that reflect Jordanian and Palestinian influences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by visiting the Az Zarqā Archaeological Museum, where you can explore artifacts that tell the story of the region's ancient civilizations. Stroll through the nearby old market district, absorbing the vibrant local atmosphere and colorful stalls. Enjoy a traditional Jordanian breakfast at a nearby café, savoring fresh falafel and mint tea.
Head to the Zarqa River area for a peaceful walk along the banks, observing the local flora and fauna. Visit the historic Al-Qasr Al-Abed, a Nabatean temple that offers insight into the area's religious past. Stop by a local artisan workshop to see traditional crafts like pottery and weaving being made by hand.
Dine at a family-run restaurant serving authentic Jordanian dishes, such as mansaf and maqluba, while engaging with friendly locals. Take a leisurely walk through the illuminated city center, enjoying the lively ambiance and street performances if available. Finish the evening with a cup of Arabic coffee at a rooftop café, overlooking the city lights.
Start your day early with a guided hike along the outskirts of Az Zarqā, where the landscape transitions from urban to rugged natural beauty. Enjoy the fresh morning air as you spot native birds and wildflowers unique to the region. Pause at a scenic viewpoint to capture panoramic photos of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Visit the nearby Az Zarqa River Gorge, an ideal spot for light rock climbing or canyoning activities under expert supervision. Have a picnic lunch by the riverbank, soaking in the tranquil sounds of flowing water and rustling leaves. Spend some time at the small nature reserve, learning about local conservation efforts and indigenous plants.
Return to town for a relaxing evening at a local spa that offers traditional hammam treatments and massage therapies. Enjoy a quiet dinner featuring fresh grilled fish and locally grown vegetables in an intimate setting. Wrap up the day with a walk through a community park, where families gather and children play under the soft glow of lanterns.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥤Bottled water (1.5 L) | $0.25-0.60 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $1-3 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range) | $25-40 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short trip) | $3-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly, welcoming locals
- Good value for money
- Central location for northern Jordan
- Limited nightlife compared to Amman
- Can be hot in summer
- Some areas may have limited English speakers
- "مرحبا" - Hello
- "شكرا" - Thank you
- "من فضلك" - Please
- "كم الثمن؟" - How much is this?
- "أين الحمام؟" - Where is the bathroom?
- "عفواً" - Excuse me
- "لا أتكلم العربية جيداً" - I don’t speak Arabic well
Places to Visit in Az Zarqā’
Visit one of these nice places.
Open riverfront with warm light, reflections on the water, and reeds that create natural silhouettes.
Narrow stone lanes with traditional storefronts, perfect for candid street photography and color-rich textures.
A wide-open square offering city panoramas and lively street scenes.
Food in Az Zarqā’
Az Zarqā’ Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-cooked lamb served over rice with a thick yogurt sauce and pine nuts; best sampled at traditional restaurants in central Zarqa.
Must-Try!
An upside-down rice dish layered with meat and vegetables, rich and comforting.
Crispy falafel served with smooth hummus and warm pita, a staple street-food pairing.
A sweet cheese pastry soaked in fragrant syrup, a popular Jordanian dessert choice.
A shared assortment of small plates—hummus, mutabbal, tabbouleh, grape leaves—for a punchy, flavorful meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market with stalls selling fresh produce, bread, falafel wraps, shawarma, and sweets; great for tasting everyday flavors.
Casual stalls offering grilled meats, falafel, samosas, and fresh juice along busy lanes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly in public spaces; shoulders and knees should be covered, especially in religious sites.
Greet with a handshake; use the right hand; politeness and conversation are valued in social interactions.
Always ask before photographing people, particularly in residential areas or private properties.
Be respectful during Ramadan; avoid eating in public during daylight hours where locals are fasting.
Safety
Tipping in Az Zarqā’
Ensure a smooth experience
10% is common in restaurants if service is not included; small tips for taxi drivers and hotel staff are appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted; many places accept cards, especially in larger eateries; some markets may prefer cash-only transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot and dry; carry water, sunscreen, and light clothing; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late evening.
Cool to mild days with chilly nights; a light jacket is advised; rain is possible but not frequent.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes; ideal for outdoor markets, walks, and photography.
Mild and comfortable; great for city strolls, hillside views, and outdoor dining.
Az Zarqā’ at Night
Hiking in Az Zarqā’
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle, scenic walk along the river with open fields and rural views.
Short hillside trails offering city views and easy terrain.
Outskirts accessible drive leads to desert landscapes suitable for a half-day hike.
Airports
How to reach Az Zarqā’ by plane.
Major international gateway to Amman, about 40-60 minutes from Zarqa by car, depending on traffic.
Small civilian airport serving domestic flights; closer to Amman but limited international service.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large share of the population is young, with many families living in Zarqa's neighborhoods.
Diverse communities in the city contribute to a lively street life and food scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, with local teams and regular weekend matches.
Common in schools and community gyms.
Community clubs and parks host running events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Az Zarqā’.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can enjoy hummus, falafel, veggie mezze, salads, and bean dishes; ask for oil-free or dairy-free options when needed.