As-Salt is a beautiful hillside town in Jordan, known for its significance during the Ottoman Empire. Situated close to 1000 meters above sea level, As-Salt is predominately built on three main hills. Perched on every edge are mustard-colored homes, narrow streets and many stairs – the city is full of undiscovered corners.

When we first visited As Salt, it was a forgotten gem in Jordan. But just recently in 2021, the town was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Notably due to its urban core which is comprised of 650 significant historic buildings that showcases a blend of European Art Nouveau and Neo-Colonial styles combined with traditional Jordanian traditions and an Ottoman flare.

Here’s What to do in Salt

To continue honoring its deeply rooted history, the As-Salt Municipality established the Salt Heritage Trail. Start at the Historic Old Salt Museum right on the main road or locally known as the Abu Jaber House. The Historical Museum has free admission and is adjacent to the visitor’s center.

If you’re lucky, you can catch a bazaar on the weekends in the summertime. Bazaar or not, the walk around the town is mesmerizing. Make it down to Al Khader Street for a treat; old market doors painted in a light blue are swung open and welcome guests all year round.

Just a few steps away is the Al Khader Church. Built in a cave in 1682, this little gem will heighten your Salt visit. It’s one of the smallest Orthodox churches in Jordan but the art and decor are mighty.

Don’t forget to wander down Hammam Street, one of the oldest commercial zones in the country, which continues to be a thriving market for your everyday needs and trinkets from Jordan.

Another landmark that awaits you at the top of the stairs is the Qaqish House, which was constructed in 1985 and was resided in by the Qaqish family until 1905. Now it serves as the office of As-Salt’s City Development Project.

Al Jada’a Lookout – At the tip hill is Al Jada’a Lookout, this is the most picturesque vantage point overlooking the city towards the south. Make sure to take it all in. At every turn and every corner you’ll get the most precious views of the hills and beyond.

There’s a reason why Salt made it to the UNESCO world heritage sites – and it’s because of its beautiful ancient architecture and well-preserved facades. Don’t leave Salt before grabbing a drink at Aktham’s 1881 Coffeehouse, a newly revived ancient mansion in the heart of the now UNESCO protected city. The renovated landmark is a center for cultural events, social exchanges and coffee!

Just outside of the old town are several beautiful farms, lodges and restaurants. One of our favorites is Bait Shaker, which offers scenic views, excellent food, activities such as ATVs and an in-house zoo.

If you’re still in the area in the late afternoon, be sure to stop by Jabal Cafe. In our humble opinion, Jabal offers the best hilltop view in all of Jordan.