Amman, the vibrant capital of Jordan, is a city that beautifully blends modernity with ancient history. With its rolling hills, buzzing markets, and friendly locals, Amman is a perfect starting point for travelers looking to explore the wonders of Jordan. The city offers a wide array of activities that cater to all types of travelers, from history buffs to food enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Whether you're visiting for a few days or planning a longer stay, here’s a comprehensive guide to the best things to do around Amman.
Explore the Citadel (Jabal Al-Qal'a)
The Citadel is one of the most prominent landmarks in Amman, perched on one of the city's highest hills. This ancient site offers a deep dive into Jordan’s rich history, with ruins dating back to the Bronze Age. Highlights of the Citadel include the Temple of Hercules, a Roman structure that dates back to the 2nd century, and the Umayyad Palace, a remnant of the early Islamic period.
Aside from its historical significance, the Citadel also provides breathtaking panoramic views of Amman. It’s a great place to start your journey through Jordan’s capital, offering a mix of history, culture, and scenic beauty.
Visit the Roman Theater
Just below the Citadel lies the Roman Theater, an awe-inspiring amphitheater that dates back to the 2nd century AD. This ancient structure once seated over 6,000 spectators and was used for various public events and performances. The theater is still in excellent condition and remains one of Amman’s most iconic attractions.
The Roman Theater is located in downtown Amman, and it’s a great place to explore alongside the nearby Odeon Theater and the Jordan Folklore Museum. Don't miss climbing the steep steps to the top of the theater for stunning views of the city.
Stroll Through Rainbow Street
For a taste of modern Amman, head to Rainbow Street, one of the city's trendiest and liveliest areas. This charming street is lined with cafes, restaurants, boutiques, and galleries, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll. Whether you’re looking for a cozy cafe to enjoy a cup of Jordanian coffee or want to browse local handicrafts, Rainbow Street offers plenty of options.
The area is especially vibrant at night when locals and tourists alike come out to enjoy the city's nightlife. It’s also a fantastic place to pick up some unique souvenirs or enjoy a rooftop meal with sweeping views of Amman.
Discover the History of Jordan at The Jordan Museum
The Jordan Museum is the largest museum in the country and offers a fascinating insight into Jordan’s history and cultural heritage. It houses some of the country’s most important archaeological finds, including artifacts from the Dead Sea Scrolls and the Ain Ghazal statues, which are among the oldest human statues ever discovered.
The museum’s exhibits cover various periods of Jordanian history, from prehistoric times to the modern era, making it an excellent destination for anyone interested in learning more about Jordan’s rich cultural heritage.
Take a Day Trip to Jerash
Located about 45 minutes north of Amman, Jerash is one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world. Often referred to as the "Pompeii of the East," Jerash boasts incredible ruins, including the impressive Hadrian’s Arch, the Oval Plaza, and the Temple of Artemis.
A visit to Jerash offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and walk along the ancient colonnaded streets. This is a must-see destination for history enthusiasts and is easily accessible from Amman as a day trip.
Relax at the Dead Sea
The Dead Sea, one of the world’s most famous natural wonders, is located just an hour’s drive from Amman. Known for its incredibly salty waters and mineral-rich mud, the Dead Sea is the perfect place to unwind and float effortlessly on the water's surface.
Visitors can enjoy luxurious spa treatments at one of the resorts along the shoreline or simply take a day trip to experience the unique sensation of floating in the Dead Sea. Don’t forget to slather yourself in the therapeutic mud, known for its healing properties.
Explore Al Balad (Downtown Amman)
Downtown Amman, known locally as Al Balad, is a bustling area filled with traditional markets, or souks, where you can find everything from spices to textiles and jewelry. This part of the city retains much of its old-world charm and is a great place to experience the local culture.
Wander through the narrow streets, sample street food like falafel and shawarma, and soak up the lively atmosphere of the souks. The Gold Souk, in particular, is worth visiting for those interested in purchasing unique gold jewelry.
Visit the Royal Automobile Museum
For car enthusiasts, the Royal Automobile Museum in Amman is a hidden gem. This museum showcases a stunning collection of cars and motorcycles, many of which belonged to Jordan’s royal family. The collection includes rare and vintage cars, as well as vehicles used by King Hussein throughout his reign.
It’s a fascinating look at the history of Jordan through the lens of its royal family's automobile collection and provides insight into the country’s modernization over the years.
Take a Cooking Class to Learn Jordanian Cuisine
One of the best ways to immerse yourself in a new culture is through its food. Jordanian cuisine is known for its rich flavors and traditional dishes like mansaf (a lamb dish with yogurt sauce) and maqluba (a layered rice and meat dish). Several cooking schools in Amman offer tourists the chance to learn how to prepare these iconic dishes.
Taking a cooking class is not only fun, but it also gives you a deeper understanding of Jordan’s food culture. Plus, you get to enjoy the delicious meal you’ve prepared!
Admire King Abdullah I Mosque
The King Abdullah I Mosque, with its striking blue dome, is one of Amman’s most recognizable landmarks. Built in the 1980s, this mosque can accommodate up to 10,000 worshippers and is open to non-Muslim visitors outside of prayer times.
The mosque offers a peaceful and reflective environment, and it’s a great place to learn more about Islamic architecture and Jordan’s religious traditions. Women visitors are required to wear a robe (available at the entrance) and cover their heads.
Conclusion
Amman is a city that offers a rich blend of history, culture, and modernity. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, enjoying the vibrant local cuisine, or taking day trips to nearby historical sites, Amman has something for everyone. From the ancient streets of Jerash to the peaceful waters of the Dead Sea, there’s no shortage of things to do around Amman. It’s the perfect gateway to exploring all that Jordan has to offer.
Whether you're staying for a short visit or planning a longer adventure, make sure to include these top experiences in your Amman itinerary. Enjoy your trip to this magical part of the world!
