Things To Do
in Amman
Amman blends ancient history with a modern, bustling urban life set on rolling hills. The skyline mixes ancient ruins with new towers, creating photogenic contrasts at every street corner. The city is renowned for its hospitality, flavorful Jordanian cuisine, and a growing cafe culture.
It's a great base for exploring northern and southern Jordan, while offering a comfortable, walkable core for city days.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the Roman Theater, a stunning relic from the 2nd century that once held 6,000 spectators. Stroll through the nearby Odeon, a smaller theater, before making your way to the Jordan Museum, where you can learn about the rich history and culture of the region. Enjoy a local breakfast at a nearby café, savoring traditional dishes like foul and labneh.
In the afternoon, wander through the bustling streets of downtown Amman, where you can explore vibrant souks and sample local street food, such as shawarma and falafel. Visit the King Abdullah I Mosque, a breathtaking architectural marvel with its striking blue dome. As you soak in the atmosphere, take some time to shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs.
As night falls, head to Rainbow Street, a lively hub filled with restaurants and cafes. Enjoy dinner at one of the many eateries, where you can indulge in a variety of Middle Eastern dishes. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll down the street, enjoying the vibrant nightlife and perhaps stopping for dessert at a local ice cream shop.
Begin your day with a visit to the Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts, where you can appreciate contemporary art from Jordan and the Arab world. Afterward, explore the charming streets of Jabal al-Lweibdeh, admiring the historic buildings and street art that tell stories of the city's past. Stop by a local bakery to taste some freshly baked manakish, a popular breakfast treat.
In the afternoon, visit the Royal Automobile Museum, which showcases a unique collection of cars owned by the late King Hussein. Take a leisurely walk through the nearby gardens, enjoying the peaceful surroundings and the beautiful views of Amman. Consider visiting a local gallery or craft shop to support local artists and find unique pieces to take home.
For dinner, choose a restaurant in Jabal al-Lweibdeh that offers traditional Jordanian cuisine, such as mansaf, the national dish. After your meal, find a cozy café where you can enjoy a cup of Arabic coffee or tea while mingling with locals. As the evening winds down, soak in the artistic vibe of the neighborhood by attending a live music performance or art exhibition.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range) | $25-40 |
| 🛏️Hotel room (mid-range, per night) | $70-120 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within city (short distance) | $4-8 |
| ☕Cafe cappuccino | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical sites and architecture
- Warm hospitality and diverse cuisine
- Hilly terrain and some traffic congestion
- Heat in summer and cooler winters in the hills
- "As-salamu alaykum" - Peace be upon you / Hello
- "Marhaba" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Afwan" - You're welcome / Excuse me
- "Kam al-thaman?" - How much is this?
- "Ayna al-ḥammam?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Min fadlik" - Please
- "Ana la afham" - I don't understand
- "La shukran" - No thanks
- "Naam / La" - Yes / No
Places to Visit in Amman
Visit one of these nice places.
Ancient ruins with sweeping views over Amman’s cityscape; ideal for sunrise or golden-hour photography.
A well-preserved 2nd-century theater set against the modern city; great for architectural and street photography.
Colorful facades, historic stairways, and vibrant street scenes; perfect for candid and urban photography.
Iconic blue dome with a striking exterior and serene interior; photograph respectfully from designated areas.
Historic souks, stone architecture, and cafe culture for atmospheric street shots.
Food in Amman
Amman Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
The national dish of Jordan, tender lamb served over rice with a creamy yogurt sauce (jameed); best enjoyed in a traditional setting.
Must-Try!
Crispy chickpea patties served in pita with tahini, salad, and pickles; a staple street food across Amman.
Upside-down rice dish cooked with meat and vegetables, flipped onto a platter for serving.
Sumac-seasoned roasted chicken on taboon bread with onions and pine nuts; aromatic and hearty.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market on Rainbow Street with authentic street bites, crafts, and live music (seasonal).
Historic downtown lanes offer falafel, shawarma, fresh juice, and mint tea options.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Offer a handshake; use formal salutations and address elders with titles when appropriate.
Respectful attire is appreciated, especially in religious sites and rural areas; cover shoulders and knees when in public spaces beyond tourist zones.
Hospitality is valued; accepting offers is common; modesty and politeness are important in conversation.
Respect daylight fasting; refrain from eating or drinking in public during daylight hours in Ramadan; remove shoes when entering mosques and be mindful of photography policies.
Safety
Tipping in Amman
Ensure a smooth experience
In upscale restaurants, service charge may be included; otherwise 10-15% is customary. Round up taxi fares when convenient.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in hotels and many restaurants; cash (Jordanian dinar) remains common in markets and smaller shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot days; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon; stay hydrated; many places are air-conditioned, but stone streets can be hot.
Cool to mild with cooler nights; occasional rain and occasional snow on higher hills; pack a warm jacket and waterproofs.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming flora; best time for outdoor markets, hills, and photography with softer light.
Warm days and cooler nights; comfortable for city wandering and rooftop drinks with city views.
Amman at Night
Hiking in Amman
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested hills with cedar trees and scenic overlooks, a short drive from Amman.
Dramatic viewpoints and wildlife; a longer day trip or multi-day trek from Amman.
Gorge canyon walk; seasonal depending on river flow; best in spring and after rains.
Airports
How to reach Amman by plane.
Main international gateway to Jordan, located about 35 km south of Amman; easy access by taxi, ride-hailing, or bus shuttles.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Largest demographic group, with substantial Palestinian, Bedouin and Circassian communities within the urban population.
Significant Palestinian, Iraqi, and other expat residents; the city is cosmopolitan in downtown areas.
A large proportion of inhabitants are young, driving a vibrant cultural scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local leagues and matches are common; casual games and spectators in parks and stadiums.
Popular in schools and clubs; you’ll see public games and pickup matches.
Growing interest in karate, taekwondo, and tennis among locals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Amman.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Jordanian cuisine offers abundant vegetarian options: falafel, hummus, mutabbal, baba ghanoush, and mezze platters. Ask for no meat or dairy if needed and look for vegetable-forward dishes or salads.