As the capital city of Jordan, Amman is the home of fascinating archaeological collections, delicious local and international cuisine and beautiful Roman architecture. Delve further into the ancient history and significant religious past of Jordan and its neighboring countries and you will discover Jerusalem; an Israeli city that is revered as one of the holiest sites on earth. It is difficult to choose between visiting Amman and Jerusalem as both cities have a unique charisma and a vast range of things to see and do. With a number of routes and good public transport connections, visitors can get from Amman to Jerusalem in one vacation.
Borders
As Jerusalem is situated within Israel, visitors from Amman will need to cross a border. In Jordan, there are three border crossings which cost around 8 JD (12 USD) per person to exit from Jordan or 100 ILS (30 USD) per person to exit from Israel.
The most convenient border crossing to get to Jerusalem is the King Hussein Bridge (Allenby) Terminal where buses operate directly to Jerusalem from the Israeli side of the border. Visitors cannot obtain a visa from the King Hussein Bridge and should ensure that they have the correct visas and paperwork before traveling from Amman to Jerusalem.
Opening hours for the King Hussein Bridge Crossing are:
08.00-22.00 (Sunday-Thursday)
08.00-13.30 (Friday & Saturday)
08.00-13.30 (Public Holidays)
Please note that the opening times of the border go by the Israeli clock and visitors should ensure that they arrive much earlier than the closing time and in accordance to the Jerusalem bus timetables (see below). Whether traveling by bus, private car or tour always expect long waiting times and security checks at border control.
Recommended: Join an organized tour from Amman to Jerusalem
By far the most convenient option to get from Amman to Jerusalem is by joining an organized tour. You won’t need to worry about the logistics of crossing the border, but rather can just sit back, relax, and enjoy each part of the journey to the fullest. There are several options for tours to Jerusalem, depending on what you’d like to see and how much time you have. We recommend this one day Jerusalem Tour from Amman. This tour, which leaves every Sunday and Thursday, includes all transport, touring, and guiding for just $199. Reserve your spot for the tour now – it’s the easiest and most efficient way to see Jerusalem from Amman.
How to Get From Amman to Jerusalem By Car
Car rental in Jordan is another to explore this country. With over one hundred car rental companies based in Amman alone, visitors will never be short of options. There are a number of car rental companies located at Queen Alia International Airport and visitors should expect to pay around 25-30JD (35-40 USD) per day for a new model with air conditioning and insurance.
Those who have arranged a rental car for their Jordanian adventure can drive to any of the three border crossings where they can then park the car and take onward transportation. Rental cars from Jordan will not be permitted into Israel. It takes just over one hour to drive from the city of Amman to the border crossing. Those who own a private vehicle can drive across the border but should check that they have the correct paperwork and licensing first.
How to Get From Amman to Jerusalem By Bus
Getting a bus from Amman to Jerusalem is a very good option as both countries operate buses to and from the border crossings.
Amman-Allenby/King Hussein Bridge Crossing
There is only one bus which operates from Amman to the border crossing each day. The bus departs from the JETT office at 7 am.
Shuttle Bus at Allenby/King Hussein Bridge
Once you have passed security control at the border, visitors then have to board a shuttle bus to the Israeli Terminal. The journey from the Jordanian Terminal to the Israeli Terminal is 5km and it departs every 1-2 hours depending on how busy it is. Visitors must pay the shuttle bus fee of 7 JD (10USD) per passenger plus 1.50JD (2USD) per luggage item. Those who do not wish to wait for the shuttle bus to depart can take a VIP service which costs around 110 USD per person. At the Israeli Terminal expect further waiting times as visitors will need to go through a passport and luggage check.
From Hussein Bridge to Jerusalem
Once you have reached the Israeli side of the crossing and have made it through the security checks, visitors can take a privately scheduled minibus directly to Jerusalem. The journey is just under four hours and visitors should find a tour operator and book this bus in advance. Some hotels can also arrange a bus transfer.
How to Get From Amman to Jerusalem By Taxi
Amman-Allenby/King Hussein Bridge Crossing
It is very easy to get a taxi from the city of Amman to the border crossing. A taxi ride to the crossing will usually cost around 30JD (44USD) or even less if sharing the ride with others.
From Hussein Bridge Crossing-Jerusalem
Once you have boarded the shuttle bridge and got through security at the Israeli Terminal you can get a taxi straight into Jerusalem. There will be a number of taxis waiting at the terminal and the journey usually costs around 150 Shekels (43USD) and takes just under four hours.
Best way to Get From Amman to Jerusalem
In order to get from Amman to Jerusalem, visitors will need to take multiple forms of transport. By far the best option is to join an organized tour. If you decide you go to Jerusalem by yourself, you should take a bus or taxi to the crossing and then a taxi from the Israeli side of the crossing into Jerusalem. The taxis in Israel are affordable and offer ease and convenience. Tourist Jordan also offers private transfers in Jordan and private transport in Israel once borders have been crossed.
