Budget — Madaba

Madaba is one of the most affordable destinations in Jordan. Count around €55 per person per day for a comfortable day trip from Amman including transport, entries, lunch and visits.

Entry fees are modest: Madaba Archaeological Park 3 JOD (€4), Mount Nebo 2 JOD (€2.50), free entry to Saint George's Church (suggested donation 1-2 JOD). The Jordan Pass (70-80 JOD depending on the version, €85-100) includes Madaba and Mount Nebo and pays for itself on day one at Petra.

Transport from Amman can be arranged several ways. Private taxi return Madaba + Mount Nebo + Dead Sea with waiting: 50-70 JOD (€65-90), ideal for 2-4 people. Bus from Wahdat station in Amman: 1 JOD (€1.30), 1-hour journey, but inconvenient for combining with Mount Nebo and the Dead Sea. Organised guided tour: €60-100 per person all-in (transport, guide, lunch, entries). Rental car: direct route, free parking at the sites.

Food in Madaba is one of the great pleasures of the visit. Haret Jdoudna (family institution in a traditional courtyard) is the unmissable address: excellent mansaf, authentic mezze, warm atmosphere, count 15-25 JOD per person (€20-32). Adonis Restaurant and Ayola are also highly regarded. Several small family canteens serve falafels and shawarmas at 3-5 JOD for a quick meal.

Accommodation in Madaba is limited but charming. The Mariam Hotel (€50-70/night, panoramic terrace, warm welcome), the Madaba Inn and the Mosaic City Hotel are the safe bets. No international brand hotel, but about ten small family establishments offering a more authentic experience than Amman. Ideal if you combine Madaba with the Dead Sea or the southern road to Petra.