Amman, the capital city of Jordan, is a vibrant metropolis that seamlessly blends ancient history with modernity. Known for its rich cultural heritage, bustling markets, and warm hospitality, Amman offers a unique experience for travelers. The city’s diverse attractions range from historic landmarks and archaeological sites to contemporary art galleries and gourmet restaurants. Here are some of the best places to visit in Amman, Jordan:
Best Places to Visit
1. The Citadel (Jabal al-Qala’a)
The Citadel, also known as Jabal al-Qala’a, is one of Amman’s most iconic historical sites. Perched on one of the city’s highest hills, the Citadel offers panoramic views of Amman. It is home to several significant archaeological ruins, including the Temple of Hercules, the Byzantine Church, and the Umayyad Palace. The site also houses the Jordan Archaeological Museum, which displays a collection of artifacts from Jordan’s rich history, including the famous Dead Sea Scrolls.
- Key Attractions: Temple of Hercules, Umayyad Palace, Jordan Archaeological Museum.
- Activities: Historical exploration, sightseeing, photography.
- Location: Jabal al-Qala’a, Amman, Jordan.
2. Roman Theatre
The Roman Theatre is a grand amphitheater located in the heart of downtown Amman. Built in the 2nd century AD, it is one of the largest and best-preserved Roman theaters in the region. The theater can accommodate up to 6,000 spectators and is still used for cultural events and performances today. Visitors can explore the theater’s impressive architecture and visit the nearby Jordan Folklore Museum and Jordan Museum of Popular Tradition, which showcase traditional Jordanian costumes, crafts, and artifacts.
- Key Attractions: Ancient Roman architecture, cultural performances.
- Activities: Exploring the theater, attending events, visiting museums.
- Location: Downtown Amman, Jordan.
3. Rainbow Street
Rainbow Street is a lively and popular destination in Amman, known for its vibrant atmosphere, trendy cafes, and boutique shops. The street is a hub of activity, especially in the evenings, when locals and tourists alike come to enjoy the diverse dining options, art galleries, and street performances. Key attractions on Rainbow Street include the historic Al Pasha Hammam, the Wild Jordan Center, and Souk Jara, a seasonal outdoor market. Rainbow Street is also a great place to experience Amman’s nightlife.
- Key Attractions: Cafes, boutiques, street performances.
- Activities: Dining, shopping, exploring local culture.
- Location: Jabal Amman, Amman, Jordan.
4. King Abdullah I Mosque
The King Abdullah I Mosque is one of Amman’s most recognizable landmarks, known for its stunning blue dome and modern Islamic architecture. Built in the 1980s, the mosque can accommodate up to 7,000 worshippers and is open to non-Muslim visitors. The mosque’s interior features intricate mosaics, a large prayer hall, and a small Islamic museum. Visitors are welcome to explore the mosque and learn about Islamic culture and traditions. Modest dress is required when visiting the mosque.
- Key Attractions: Blue dome, Islamic museum.
- Activities: Cultural exploration, learning about Islam.
- Location: King Abdullah I Mosque, Amman, Jordan.
5. Amman Citadel National Archaeological Museum
Located within the Citadel complex, the Amman Citadel National Archaeological Museum showcases a vast collection of artifacts from Jordan’s history. The museum’s exhibits span various periods, including the Paleolithic, Neolithic, Bronze Age, Iron Age, and Islamic periods. Notable artifacts include pottery, statues, coins, and the famous Dead Sea Scrolls. The museum offers a fascinating insight into the region’s rich cultural heritage and ancient civilizations.
- Key Attractions: Artifacts from various historical periods, Dead Sea Scrolls.
- Activities: Museum visit, historical exploration.
- Location: Jabal al-Qala’a, Amman, Jordan.
6. Jordan Museum
The Jordan Museum is the largest museum in the country and offers a comprehensive overview of Jordan’s history and culture. The museum’s exhibits cover various aspects of Jordanian heritage, from prehistoric times to the modern era. Key highlights include the Ain Ghazal statues, some of the oldest human statues ever discovered, and a replica of the Mesha Stele, an ancient Moabite stone inscription. The museum also features interactive displays and multimedia presentations, making it an engaging experience for visitors of all ages.
- Key Attractions: Ain Ghazal statues, Mesha Stele replica.
- Activities: Exploring exhibits, learning about Jordanian history.
- Location: Al Madinah Street, Ras Al Ain, Amman, Jordan.
7. Souk Jara
Souk Jara is a popular outdoor market held every Friday from spring to autumn on Rainbow Street. The market features a variety of stalls selling handmade crafts, jewelry, clothing, art, and traditional Jordanian products. It is a great place to shop for unique souvenirs and gifts while experiencing the local culture. The market also offers a selection of street food and live entertainment, creating a lively and festive atmosphere.
- Key Attractions: Handmade crafts, local products, live entertainment.
- Activities: Shopping, dining, enjoying live performances.
- Location: Rainbow Street, Jabal Amman, Amman, Jordan.
8. Al Balad (Downtown Amman)
Al Balad, or Downtown Amman, is the historic heart of the city and a bustling commercial center. The area is known for its traditional markets, shops, and cafes. Key attractions in Al Balad include the bustling Al Husseini Mosque, the gold market (Souk Al-Sagha), and the lively King Faisal Street. Visitors can explore the narrow streets, shop for local products, and enjoy traditional Jordanian cuisine at one of the many local eateries.
- Key Attractions: Traditional markets, Al Husseini Mosque, local shops.
- Activities: Shopping, dining, exploring local culture.
- Location: Downtown Amman, Jordan.
9. Royal Automobile Museum
The Royal Automobile Museum showcases an impressive collection of classic and vintage cars owned by the Jordanian Royal Family. The museum’s exhibits include cars from various eras, ranging from the early 20th century to modern luxury vehicles. Highlights include King Hussein’s collection of motorcycles, the Aston Martin DB6 owned by King Abdullah II, and the iconic Lincoln Continental used by King Hussein. The museum offers a unique insight into the history of Jordan through the lens of its royal family’s love for automobiles.
- Key Attractions: Classic and vintage cars, motorcycles.
- Activities: Exploring car exhibits, learning about royal history.
- Location: Al Hussein Public Parks, Amman, Jordan.
10. Darat al Funun
Darat al Funun is an art center dedicated to contemporary Arab art. The center hosts exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events, showcasing the work of emerging and established artists from the Arab world. Darat al Funun is set in a beautiful historic villa with stunning views of Amman. The center also features a library, an archaeological site with Roman ruins, and a cafe. It is a great place to explore modern art and engage with Jordan’s vibrant cultural scene.
- Key Attractions: Contemporary art exhibitions, Roman ruins.
- Activities: Art appreciation, attending cultural events.
- Location: Jabal al-Weibdeh, Amman, Jordan.
Summary Table
| Place | Description | Key Attraction | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Citadel (Jabal al-Qala’a) | Historic site with panoramic views and ancient ruins | Temple of Hercules, Umayyad Palace | Jabal al-Qala’a, Amman |
| Roman Theatre | Ancient amphitheater in downtown Amman | Roman architecture, cultural performances | Downtown Amman |
| Rainbow Street | Lively street with cafes, shops, and art galleries | Souk Jara, Wild Jordan Center | Jabal Amman |
| King Abdullah I Mosque | Iconic mosque with a stunning blue dome | Islamic museum, modern architecture | King Abdullah I Mosque |
| Amman Citadel National Archaeological Museum | Museum with artifacts from Jordan’s history | Dead Sea Scrolls, ancient artifacts | Jabal al-Qala’a, Amman |
| Jordan Museum | Largest museum in Jordan showcasing national heritage | Ain Ghazal statues, Mesha Stele replica | Al Madinah Street, Amman |
| Souk Jara | Outdoor market with handmade crafts and local products | Live entertainment, street food | Rainbow Street, Jabal Amman |
| Al Balad (Downtown Amman) | Historic commercial center with markets and shops | Al Husseini Mosque, Souk Al-Sagha | Downtown Amman |
| Royal Automobile Museum | Museum displaying classic and vintage cars | Royal cars and motorcycles | Al Hussein Public Parks |
| Darat al Funun | Art center for contemporary Arab art | Art exhibitions, cultural events | Jabal al-Weibdeh, Amman |
How to Reach Amman
By Plane
Amman is served by Queen Alia International Airport (AMM), located about 30 kilometers south of the city center. The airport offers domestic and international flights. From the airport, travelers can reach the city center by taxi, airport shuttle, or rental car.
By Car
Amman is well-connected to other major cities in Jordan by a network of highways.
The Desert Highway (Highway 15) connects Amman to Aqaba in the south, while the King’s Highway provides a scenic route through the country’s interior. Car rental options are available for those who prefer to drive.
By Bus
Several bus companies, including JETT and Trust International Transport, operate routes to Amman from cities across Jordan and neighboring countries. The city’s main bus stations are the Abdali and Tabarbour bus stations.
Best Time to Visit Amman
The best time to visit Amman is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. These seasons are ideal for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions and enjoying cultural events. The summer months (June to August) can be hot, making it a great time for indoor activities and museum visits. Winter (December to February) is cooler, with occasional rainfall.
Travel Tips
- Local Cuisine: Amman offers a rich culinary scene with traditional Jordanian dishes such as mansaf (a lamb and rice dish), falafel, and maqluba. The city’s diverse restaurants and street food vendors provide a wide range of dining options.
- Cultural Etiquette: Jordanians are known for their hospitality. It’s customary to greet people with a smile and a handshake. When visiting religious sites, dress modestly and remove shoes before entering mosques. It’s also polite to use your right hand when eating or greeting others.
- Transportation: Amman’s public transportation system includes buses and taxis. The city’s traffic can be congested, especially during peak hours, so it’s advisable to plan your travel accordingly. Taxis are widely available and relatively inexpensive.
Itinerary Suggestions
One-Day Trip
- Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Citadel and explore its ancient ruins and panoramic views. Then, head to the Roman Theatre and visit the nearby museums.
- Afternoon: Have lunch at a local restaurant in Al Balad and explore the traditional markets and shops. Visit the Jordan Museum to learn more about the country’s history.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at a cafe or restaurant on Rainbow Street, and stroll through the vibrant area to experience Amman’s nightlife.
Weekend Getaway
- Day 1: Begin with visits to the Citadel, the Roman Theatre, and the Amman Citadel National Archaeological Museum. In the afternoon, explore the King Abdullah I Mosque and the Jordan Museum. In the evening, dine on Rainbow Street and visit Souk Jara if it’s in season.
- Day 2: Start with a morning visit to the Royal Automobile Museum and Al Hussein Public Parks. Then, explore Darat al Funun and the art galleries in Jabal al-Weibdeh. In the afternoon, visit Al Balad and the traditional markets. Conclude your trip with a relaxing evening at a local cafe.
Amman’s rich history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality make it a captivating destination in Jordan. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, enjoying the city’s culinary delights, or immersing yourself in its art and culture, Amman offers a memorable experience for every traveler.
