Amman, the vibrant capital of Jordan, is a city where ancient history and modern culture seamlessly blend to create a unique travel experience. As one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Amman boasts a rich tapestry of archaeological wonders, cultural landmarks, and contemporary attractions. From the bustling streets of downtown to the serene landscapes surrounding the city, there are countless places to visit in Amman that cater to all types of travelers. This dynamic metropolis offers something for everyone: history buffs can explore ancient ruins and museums, art enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the city's thriving cultural scene, and food lovers can savor the diverse flavors of Jordanian cuisine.
10 Places to Visit in Amman: The Roman Theatre, Citadel and More
Whether you're marveling at the ancient Citadel, floating in the therapeutic waters of the Dead Sea, or strolling down the lively Rainbow Street, Amman provides a captivating journey through time and tradition. In this blog, we will delve into some of the most remarkable places to visit in Amman. From historical sites like the Roman Theatre and Ajloun Castle to contemporary attractions like Darat Al Funun and the bustling nightlife on Rainbow Street, each destination offers a unique glimpse into the heart of this enchanting city. Join us as we explore the must-see sights and hidden gems that make Amman a truly unforgettable destination.
- Citadel (Jabal Al- Qalaa)
- Dead Sea
- Ajloun Castle
- King Abdullah Mosque
- Amman Roman Theatre
- Jordan Archeological Museum
- Rainbow Street
- Darat Al Funun
- Umm Quais
- Mt. Nebo
1. Citadel (Jabal Al- Qalaa)
Perched on one of Amman's highest hills, the Citadel (Jabal Al-Qalaa) is a historical treasure trove and one of the must-visit places to visit in Amman. This ancient site, continuously inhabited since the Bronze Age, offers a fascinating glimpse into the city's rich past. Visitors can explore the remnants of the Temple of Hercules, the Umayyad Palace, and a Byzantine church, all while enjoying panoramic views of the city. The Citadel is also home to the Jordan Archaeological Museum, where artifacts from various periods of Jordanian history are on display. Strolling through the ruins, you'll feel a deep connection to the ancient civilizations that once thrived here. The Citadel is an unmissable attraction for history enthusiasts and those seeking to understand the cultural heritage of Amman.
Address: K. Ali Ben Al-Hussein St. 146, Amman, Jordan
Open Hours: Monday to Saturday - 8 AM to 7 PM; Sunday – 8 AM to 5:30 PM
Wait Time: None
Nearby Eateries: Zin Restaurant; Al Basha Shawarma; Hop and Dogs Restaurant; Nofal Lever; Abu Lilia Restaurant; Chef Drum Restaurant; 4th Floor Restaurant
Nearby Attractions: Roman Temple of Hercules; Jordan Archeological Museum; Umayyad Mosque; Byzantine Church
Nearby Accommodations: The Castle Star Hotel; The Amman Pasha Hotel; Jordan Tower Hotel; Zaman Ya Zaman Boutique Hotel; Arab Tower Hotel
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2. Dead Sea
One of the most remarkable Amman tourist attractions is the Dead Sea, a unique natural wonder located a short drive from the city. Renowned for its incredibly high salt concentration, the Dead Sea allows visitors to effortlessly float on its surface. The mineral-rich waters and mud are also famous for their therapeutic properties, attracting visitors seeking wellness and relaxation. The surrounding area offers stunning landscapes and luxurious resorts where you can indulge in spa treatments and enjoy breathtaking views. A visit to the Dead Sea is not just a unique experience but also a rejuvenating retreat that highlights the natural beauty and geological significance of Jordan.
Location: Dead Sea, Jordan, Egypt
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday – 24 Hours
Nearby Eateries: El Grito Restaurant and Pool Bar; Al Deera Restaurant; Dubliners Irish Pub & Restaurant; Burger Salad Crisps; Ambrosia Restaurant Dead Sea; Dead Sea Museum Restaurant
Nearby Attractions: Cave of Letters; Salt Beach; Salt Statue of the Wife of Prophet Lot AS; Place of Prophet Sulaiman (Solomon); Wadi Al-Dabaa/Mudarab Beni Hamida
Nearby Accommodations: Mujib Chalets - Mujib Biosphere Reserve; Al Hidan Hostel and Adventure Center; Tranquilo Glamping; HI Ein Gedi Hostel; Bar's suite Ein-Gedi; Badolina Ein Gedi Glamping
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3. Ajloun Castle
For those interested in sightseeing Amman and its surrounding areas, Ajloun Castle is a must-visit. This 12th-century fortress, built by the nephew of Saladin, offers a stunning example of Islamic architecture and strategic military history. Situated on a hilltop, the castle provides spectacular views of the Jordan Valley and the northern highlands. Inside, you can explore the well-preserved rooms, corridors, and towers that tell the story of its role in defending the region against Crusader invasions. The castle's setting amidst lush, green forests makes it a perfect day trip from Amman, combining historical exploration with natural beauty.
Address: Ajloun Castle, Ajloun, Jordan
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 6:30 PM
Nearby Eateries: Jar Al Jabal Restaurant; Tibo Resto Café; Al Natour Castle Tourist Restaurant; El Creperro; Burgerella
Nearby Attractions: Ajloun Cable Car Station 2; Ajloun Stadium; Diwan of the Al-Farihat Clan; Ajlun Valley
Nearby Accommodations: Ajloun Hotel; Ajloun Mountain Castle Hotel; Al-Jabal Castle Hotel – Ajloun; Dar Al-Zein Farms; Ajloun Rural Tourist Huts and Restaurant
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4. King Abdullah Mosque
Among the prominent things to see in Amman, Jordan is the King Abdullah Mosque, an architectural masterpiece and a symbol of modern Islamic culture. Completed in 1989, this mosque is dedicated to the late King Abdullah I and can accommodate up to 10,000 worshippers. Its striking blue dome and intricate Islamic designs make it a visually stunning landmark. The mosque is also open to non-Muslim visitors, offering a unique opportunity to learn about Islamic traditions and architecture. The serene atmosphere and the mosque's grandeur make it a peaceful retreat within the bustling city.
Location: XW67+F4H, Amman, Jordan
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday 3:30 AM to 10 PM
Nearby Eateries: 32º North Restaurant; Ghaith Restaurant; Italian Restaurant; Mesh, W Amman; Tammouz Restaurant & Cafe; Alzamer Restaurant
Nearby Attractions: Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts; Abdali Mall; Zahran Park; Haya Cultural Center; Prince Hashem Bird Garden
Nearby Accommodations: Kaya Hotel Amman; Sufara Hotel Suites; Toldeo Hotel; Abdali Inn; AlJazeera Hotel Apartments; Sama Amman Hotel Apartments
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5. Roman Theatre
A visit to the Amman Roman Theatre is one of the essential things to do in Amman Jordan. This impressive ancient structure, dating back to the 2nd century AD, is a testament to the city's rich Roman history. Carved into a hillside, the theatre could originally seat around 6,000 spectators and is still used today for cultural events and performances. The theatre complex includes the Jordan Folklore Museum and the Museum of Popular Traditions, where visitors can explore traditional Jordanian crafts, costumes, and artifacts. The Roman Theatre is a captivating site that brings the ancient world to life in the heart of modern Amman.
Address: Taha Al-Hashemi St., Amman, Jordan
Open Hours: Sunday to Thursday – 8 AM to 8 PM; Fridays and Saturdays – 8 AM to 10 PM
Nearby Eateries: Amman Heart Restaurant & Cafe; Pizza Roma Cafe; AlArabi Falafel Restaurant; Abu Lilia Restaurant
Nearby Attractions: Roman Nymphaeum; The Duke's Diwan; The Folklore Museum; Grand Husseini Mosque; Amman Citadel; Byzantine Church
Nearby Accommodations: layaali Amman Hotel; The Amman Pasha Hotel; Jordan Tower Hotel; Rafi Hotel; Khan Khediwe Hotel
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6. Jordan Archeological Museum
One of the key places to go in Amman for history buffs is the Jordan Archaeological Museum. Located within the Amman Citadel, this museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts that span from prehistoric times to the Islamic era. Highlights include the Dead Sea Scrolls, ancient pottery, and a variety of tools and weapons used by early civilizations. Each exhibit provides a detailed narrative of Jordan's diverse cultural heritage, offering valuable insights into the region's historical development. The museum's compact yet comprehensive collection makes it an essential stop for anyone interested in archaeology and the ancient history of Jordan.
Location: XW3M+MP9, Amman, Jordan
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 4 PM
Nearby Eateries: Jabri Restaurant Downtown; AlQuds Restaurant; Ezwetti Initiative; Al Kit Kat Restaurant; Loop Restaurant; Faisal Restaurant
Nearby Attractions: Umayyad Palace; Amman Citadel; The Duke's Diwan; Roman Temple of Hercules; Jordan Archaeological Museum
Nearby Accommodations: Citadel Guest House; Farah Hotel; Gallery Guest House; Twin DownTown Hotel; The Cabin Hostel
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7. Rainbow Street
For those seeking to experience the vibrant nightlife in Amman Jordan, Rainbow Street is the place to be. This bustling street in the heart of the city is lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. By day, it's a charming area to explore, with its art galleries, boutiques, and historic buildings. By night, Rainbow Street comes alive with music, lights, and the aroma of delicious street food. It's a fantastic place to socialize, enjoy live music, and experience the contemporary culture of Amman.
Location: Amman, Jordan
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday – 24 Hours
Nearby Eateries: AlQuds Falafel; Da Esmat; Mijana; Shams El Balad; The Bake House; Abu Omar; Fatari
Nearby Attractions: The Jordan Museum; Souk Jara; AlPasha Turkish Bath; Sundial; Ras Al-Ain Gallery; Circassians Mosque; Darat al Funun-The Khalid Shoman Foundation
Nearby Accommodations: Intercontinental Amman, Jordan; Nu Fifty Two; Granada Hotel; Shams House; Jabal Amman Hotel (Heritage House); Canary Hotel
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8. Darat Al Funun
Darat Al Funun is one of the premier places to visit in Jordan for art and culture enthusiasts. This art gallery and cultural center, set in a series of restored historic buildings, offers a dynamic space for contemporary art exhibitions, performances, and workshops. Overlooking downtown Amman, Darat Al Funun provides a serene and inspiring environment for both artists and visitors. The center also includes a library, research facilities, and a beautiful garden, making it a cultural oasis in the city. A visit to Darat Al Funun offers a unique opportunity to engage with Jordanian and regional art in a historic setting.
Location: Nadim Al-Mallah St 13, Amman, Jordan
Open Hours: Saturday to Thrusday – 10 AM to 7 PM
Nearby Eateries: Hashem Restaurant Down Town; Jafra Restaurant & Cafe; Dali; Najla's Kitchen
Nearby Attractions: The Duke's Diwan; Umayyad Palace; Amman Citadel; Jordan Archaeological Museum; Roman Temple of Hercules
Nearby Accommodations: New Park Hotel; The Signature Hotel; Gallery Guest House; The Boutique Hotel Amman; Amman Sand Mars Hotel
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9. Umm Quais
Among the top things to do in Jordan is visiting Umm Qais, an ancient Greco-Roman city known for its well-preserved ruins and stunning views of the Sea of Galilee and the Golan Heights. Once a thriving cultural hub, Umm Qais boasts impressive remains of a theater, basilica, and colonnaded streets. The site offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, providing a glimpse into the region's diverse past. Exploring Umm Qais allows visitors to walk through history while enjoying the breathtaking landscapes that surround this archaeological treasure.
Address: MM4H+762, Ash Shounah Ash Shemaleyah, Umm Qais, Jordan
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 6 PM
Nearby Eateries: Umm Qais Rest House; Shine Cottage; Fortuna Cafe; Feed Me Restaurant; Rubue Jadara Restaurant
Nearby Attractions: Yarmouk Forest Reserve Visitor Center; Archaeological Museum of Umm Qais; Yarmouk Reserve; Western Mausoleum
Nearby Accommodations: Beit Al Baraka; Gadara Rent Room ( b&b); Beit Philodemus; Gedara Guesthouse
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10. Mt. Nebo
A key highlight among Amman tourist places is Mt. Nebo, a historic and religious site believed to be the place where Moses viewed the Promised Land. Located a short drive from Amman, Mt. Nebo offers panoramic views of the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea, and even Jerusalem on a clear day. The site features a modern church built over ancient ruins, housing stunning mosaics and artifacts from the early Christian period. A visit to Mt. Nebo provides a spiritual and historical journey, making it a significant and memorable destination for visitors to Jordan.
Address: QP9G+86M, circular belt, Amman, Jordan
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday – 24 Hours
Nearby Eateries: Nebo Palace Restaurant; Mazayen Nebo Restaurant; Hekayet Nebo; Restaurant Terrace Souk; Panorama Nebo Restaurant
Nearby Attractions: Al Hakaya Museum; Moses' Spring; Madaba Archaeological Park; Climbat Amman; Madaba Archaeological Museum
Nearby Accommodations: Talet dar Abo Jubran; Aitch Boutique Hotel - an LIH Hotel; Rumman Hotel; Mosaic City Hotel; Black Iris Hotel
In conclusion, Amman is a city that captivates with its blend of ancient heritage and modern charm. The diverse range of places to visit in Amman ensures that every visitor finds something that resonates with their interests and passions. From the historical splendor of the Citadel and the Roman Theatre to the contemporary vibrancy of Rainbow Street and Darat Al Funun, Amman offers a multifaceted experience that is both enriching and exhilarating. Each site tells a story, each street has a pulse, and each experience contributes to the city's unique allure. As you plan your journey through this remarkable capital, let the diverse attractions of Amman guide you through an adventure filled with discovery and delight. Embrace the opportunity to explore, learn, and connect with a city with our Amman tour packages that stands as a testament to Amman's past, present, and future.
Places to Visit in Amman FAQs
Amman is rich in history, with must-visit sites including the Citadel (Jabal Al-Qalaa), the Amman Roman Theatre, and the Jordan Archaeological Museum. These sites offer a deep dive into the ancient civilizations that once thrived in the region.
The Dead Sea is about an hour's drive from Amman. You can reach it by renting a car, taking a taxi, or joining a guided tour that includes transportation.
Yes, Ajloun Castle is a popular day trip from Amman. It takes about an hour and a half to reach the castle by car, and you can explore the historical site and its surroundings in a single day.
Yes, non-Muslims are welcome to visit the King Abdullah Mosque. Visitors should dress modestly and women are typically required to cover their heads. It’s best to check the visiting hours and any specific guidelines before going.
The Amman Roman Theatre is a well-preserved ancient structure that can seat up to 6,000 spectators. Visitors can explore the theatre, as well as the Jordan Folklore Museum and the Museum of Popular Traditions, which are located on-site.
Yes, Darat Al Funun is a prominent cultural center in Amman. It offers contemporary art exhibitions, performances, and workshops, set in historic buildings with beautiful gardens overlooking the city.
Rainbow Street comes alive in the evenings, making it the best time to visit for nightlife. You'll find a variety of cafes, restaurants, and live music venues bustling with activity and offering a lively atmosphere.
Umm Qais offers impressive Greco-Roman ruins, including a theatre and colonnaded streets, along with stunning views of the Sea of Galilee and the Golan Heights. It’s a perfect destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Mt. Nebo is a short drive from Amman, approximately 30-45 minutes by car. At Mt. Nebo, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea, and on clear days, Jerusalem. The site also features a modern church with ancient mosaics.
Yes, there are many guided tours available for major attractions in Amman. These tours often include historical insights and convenient transportation, making it easier to explore multiple sites in a structured manner.
