🧭 Madaba Day Trip 2025 (Mosaic Map & Mount Nebo)

The city of Madaba is famous for the ancient mosaic map of the Holy Land inside St George’s Church, plus the spiritual views from Mount Nebo over the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea. The day plan below works well for families and can be combined with your arrival via Queen Alia International Airport or as a day trip from Amman.

Highlights of Madaba

• The famous mosaic map of the Holy Land inside St George’s Church.
• Wide views from Mount Nebo over the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea.
• Mosaic workshops, small museums and easy walks around the old town.

One-day plan (hour by hour) Madaba

• 08:30Leave Amman / airport.
• 09:15Arrive in Madaba — short walk through the town center.
• 09:30St George’s Church (Mosaic Map) — ~45–60 minutes.
• 10:45Madaba Archaeological Park + Madaba Museum — ~60 minutes.
• 12:00Local lunch in downtown Madaba (traditional food / grills).
• 13:30Mount Nebo — ~60–90 minutes (small museum + viewpoint).
• 15:30Optional: quick drive down towards the Dead Sea for sunset, then back.
• 18:30Return to Amman.

For families with young kids, reduce museum time and add an ice-cream/coffee stop between Madaba and Mount Nebo.

Mosaic Map — St George’s Church

The famous Madaba Map is one of the most important mosaic discoveries in the region (Byzantine era), showing historic cities, towns and routes. Inside St George’s Greek Orthodox Church you’ll find the mosaic panel set into the floor.

Photography is usually allowed without flash — respect the church rules and posted signs.

Mount Nebo

A religious and historical hilltop site with symbolic importance and wide views over the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea on clear days. It includes a church/complex, mosaic samples and interpretation panels.

Extra stops nearby

• Madaba Archaeological Park & Museum — more mosaics and local finds.
• A local mosaic workshop — see how traditional mosaic art is made.
• Optional sunset stop: a quick detour towards the Dead Sea (if time allows).

How to get there from Amman / the airport

• From Amman: ~45–60 minutes by car (south via the Desert/airport road).
• From Queen Alia International Airport: ~25–30 minutes to Madaba — perfect for an arrival/departure day.
• Private driver/organized tour: easier for families and saves time finding parking and routes.

🚌 Book Madaba tours (GetYourGuide)

Choose a tour that covers Madaba + Mount Nebo (and optionally the Dead Sea). Note: prices and schedules change by season and availability.

🏨 Suggested hotels (Booking)

• Stay in Madaba for a quiet morning visit.
• Or stay in Amman and return after dinner.
• Relaxing option: head down to the Dead Sea for one night (with a resort day pass or overnight stay).

💡 Practical tips

• Visit St George’s Church in the morning to avoid crowds.
• Comfortable shoes are important, especially at Mount Nebo.
• Dress modestly in churches and religious sites.
• Carry some cash for entrance fees and small purchases.

❓ FAQ

Is 6–8 hours enough for Madaba + Mount Nebo?
Yes, if you manage your time well and keep museum visits focused.

Is this day trip suitable for kids?
Yes; just add a few breaks, ice cream stops and short walks in town.

Do I need a guide?
Optional; the mosaic map and museum have information boards, but a guide adds context and history.

🔗 Back to Jordan pages

You might also like: Amman Downtown · Amman Citadel · Roman Theater (Amman) · Queen Alia International Airport · Petra · Wadi Rum.