A layover in Amman is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Amman-Marka International Airport sits just 75 minutes from the city center by Taxi, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave ADJ:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Jordan. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Amman takes about 75 minutes by Taxi. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is JOD. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
Transport from Amman-Marka International Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Amman-Marka International Airport into town:
- Taxi: About 75 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 95 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Amman might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$8 USD
- A meal: ~$15 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$33 USD
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Amman.
Luggage Storage at ADJ
Dedicated luggage storage at ADJ may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Amman’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
For a layover visit to Amman, we’d suggest Amman Citadel and Roman Theatre. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Amman. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
If you’d rather stay inside ADJ — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Marka Airport Terminal Relaxation
- ADJ Souvenir & Essentials Stand
Where to Eat
For food in Amman, local travelers recommend Hashem Restaurant Downtown. If you have time for a second stop, Sufra Restaurant is another popular pick.
Back at ADJ, Marka Airport Cafeteria is the go-to. Departure Lounge Snack Counter rounds out your in-terminal options.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Long overnight layover? Your options at ADJ include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Jordan also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at ADJ, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Amman itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Jordan that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Amman genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.