Things to do in Balqa Governorate
Discover the best attractions and experiences Balqa Governorate has to offer
Historic Monuments
Balqa’s historic landscape spans biblical sites and medieval towns, offering a window into Jordan’s layered past.
Mount Nebo
A biblical site offering sweeping views over the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea, tied to Moses and pilgrimage traditions.
St. George Church, Madaba
Home to the famous 6th-century Madaba Map, a stunning floor mosaic depicting biblical lands.
Madaba Archaeological Park
A compact cluster of ancient mosaics and Roman-Byzantine ruins at the heart of Madaba.
Museums
Madaba’s mosaics and archaeology come alive in specialized museums and studios.
Madaba Mosaics Museum
Displays a collection of mosaics from Madaba’s ancient sites and local workshops.
Madaba Mosaic Workshop
Hands-on mosaic studio where visitors can watch artisans and try basic mosaic work.
Madaba Archaeological Park Museum
Adjacent museum within the park area showcasing artifacts from the region’s Roman-Byzantine era.
Religious Monuments
Religious heritage shines through Jordan’s biblical and Christian sites in Balqa.
Bethany Beyond the Jordan (Baptism Site)
An important pilgrimage site on the Jordan River marking Jesus’ baptism tradition.
St. George Church, Madaba
A historic church associated with Madaba’s famed mosaics and early Christian heritage.
National & Theme Parks
Natural wonders range from dramatic canyons to soothing hot springs.
Wadi Mujib Reserve
A dramatic canyon reserve famous for the Siq Trail and adventurous canyoning.
Ma'in Hot Springs
A scenic oasis with natural hot springs and waterfalls for a rejuvenating soak.
Neighborhoods
Explore distinctive towns and quarters that showcase local life and architecture.
Madaba Old Town
A town center famed for mosaic streets, shops, and Byzantine-era remnants.
As-Salt Old Town
A hilltop historic quarter with Ottoman-era houses and atmospheric lanes.
Fuheis
A multicultural town known for its charm, cafes, and local craft traditions.
Free Things to Do
Budget-friendly ways to soak in Balqa’s character and scenery.
Sunset at Mount Nebo
Catch a colorful sunset over the Jordan Valley from the Nebo slopes.
Stroll Madaba’s mosaic-studded streets
Walk the lanes of Madaba to admire street art and historic facades.
Explore Salt’s hilltop viewpoints
Take in panoramic views over the old town from elevated vantage points.
Walk through Madaba Archaeological Park
Roam the open-air ruin site and see ancient mosaics in their context.
Gastronomy
Jordanian flavors shine in Balqa’s hearty classics and sweet treats.
Mansaf
Jordan’s national dish of lamb cooked in yogurt sauce served with rice or bulgur.
Maqluba
Upside-down rice dish layered with meat and vegetables, flipped at serving.
Kunafa (Kanafeh)
Delicate cheese pastry soaked in syrup, a popular dessert across Jordan.
Nightlife
Quiet evenings in Balqa centers with cafés, tea houses, and traditional venues.
Evening cafes in Madaba
Relaxing spots to sip coffee and watch the town wind down.
Traditional tea houses in Salt
Cozy spaces for local teas and ambient conversation after sundown.
Live music at Fuheis guesthouses
Seasonal performances and hospitable evenings in a small-town setting.
Entertainment
Hands-on arts, markets, and cultural experiences to enrich your visit.
Mosaic-making workshops in Madaba
Participate in a guided mosaic session and learn the craft.
Craft markets in Salt
Browse stalls offering local handiwork and souvenirs.
Cultural evenings in Fuheis
Small-scale events featuring local music and storytelling.
Sports
Active pursuits amid Jordan’s natural settings and historic towns.
Hiking in Mount Nebo area
Crisp trails with sweeping viewpoints across the valley.
Canyoning in Wadi Mujib
Adventurous trails that involve scrambling and river sections.
Ma'in Hot Springs spa-visit
Refresh with a natural soak after a day of exploration.
Off the Track
Hidden corners and lesser-known experiences that reveal Balqa’s quiet charm.
Ottoman architecture in As-Salt
Explore narrow lanes and preserved façades in this historic town.
Coffee culture in Fuheis
Taste local brews and enjoy a friendly, laid-back ambiance.
Dead Sea viewpoints along the Balqa coast
Stops along the scenic drive offer dramatic desert-and-sea vistas.