Best Things To Do in Amman

Amman is the capital of Jordan, considered a diverse and multicultural cosmopolitan, and even one of the most imposing of the Asian countries. The best thing is that it is quite safe, with friendly people and impeccable cuisine. Here you will find fun plans for the whole family: from reflecting on the baptism place of Jesus Christ, to living the multi-sensory experience of the Souk. You can also enjoy a scenic tour of the ruins, Roman monuments, open-air spaces and mosques.

The castles surrounding the region are also impressive, and the best tours and excursions take you to discover their history. I recommend you start by getting to know the interior of the city, to appreciate every street and climb to the viewpoints on the hills. Later, venture to the neighboring cities to visit Petra, Jerash, Umm Qais, among others. Here are the plans you can't miss in Amman!

1. Discover the most special places in Amman

Roman theater located in Syria|©Alfie 2001

Amman is a very interesting city, the best way to know it thoroughly is to take a tour of every corner. In the capital you can take a look at the ruins of historical monuments, such as the pillars of the Roman Temple of Hercules. In one day you can see everything it has to offer, if you want to save time you can consider joining one of the best local tours and excursions that usually prepare a customizable itinerary from 133 euros, approximately.

Undoubtedly, the city brings together a contrast between past and present, offering modern and ancient spaces. It is worth climbing the hills and viewpoints, to enjoy the panoramic views. Also, if you plan to visit the mosques, museums and palaces, the best option is to purchase the Jordan Pass that allows you to visit different locations in Amman. Places you can't miss are:

The King Abdullah Mosque, a local icon, and the only one that women can access, under certain conditions and dress codes. Its colorful dome can be seen from various points in Amman.
The Roman Amphitheater, which offers an amazing structure, as it is one of the few Roman theaters preserved worldwide.
The Citadel of Amman, the best place to appreciate the city, especially at sunset.
The Raghadan Palace, where the remains of King Hussein rest.

Book a guided tour of Amman

2. Stroll through the Amman Souk and enjoy the local street art

Amman is a city with a variety of entertainment options, so be amazed. In addition to ruins, castles and natural spectacles, you can enjoy a colorful and bustling flea market. I know about the classic souks, which are open-air Arab markets. People usually visit them to bring nuts and dried fruits, as they have the special flavor of Jordan.

It is an excellent place for shopping, note that they are usually held on Fridays. It is an experience full of unique smells, textures and flavors. You can also find relics and handicrafts, antique books and more. If you are looking for things to do with children, I suggest you take advantage of the musical shows and areas for the little ones.

Additionally, you can't miss the street art in Amman. Most of the graffiti can be found in the modern district, which adds a touch of color to the aging streets of the ruins. Rainbow Street is also home to quaint cafes, with terraces offering panoramic views.

3. See Amman's Roman Amphitheater

The Roman Amphitheater is one of Amman's most visited wonders, having been built in the 2nd century. It is located opposite the Citadel and is an essential visit that you can access for about 2 euros. It has a capacity for 6,000 people, so it was a find for the time.

Early in the morning, it is usually less crowded. Although, the structure is best appreciated around 10:00 a.m., when the sun's rays are more intense. Here you can enjoy the Odeon, corresponding to the main façade. Afterwards, the challenge is to reach the top, climbing a steep flight of stairs. Also, on the way down you will feel the adrenaline coursing through your body, while enjoying the panoramic views of Amman. For safety reasons I do not recommend you to go near the edge, as there are no handrails.

4. Enjoy Jordanian food from the viewpoints of Amman

The ruins and colors of Amman are worth a look from the heights. In the city you will find lookouts, which are usually very crowded at sunset. The one in the Citadel is the most popular, but there are other easily accessible options. For example, you can walk up into the hills to Wild Jordan, a rural area where you will find a modern building with a cafe that offers a scenic show.

The Wild Jordan Cafe is a great place to sample Jordanian food while enjoying the view. The food of this region uses homegrown techniques, but also has influence from other Arab countries. Specifically, from Syrian, Iraqi, Lebanese food, among others.

5. Delve into Amman's soap and cosmetics store

In Amman you will find handicrafts and production of personal care products, which are very popular. The making of aromatics is a local specialty, and even a Jordanian tradition. Most are made with salt, mud, olive oil, camel's milk and Dead Sea extracts. The best known soap store is Trinitae, located in Rainbow Square.

It is an old house, with an undeniable charm. They offer moisturizers, oils, salts and perfumes that will allow you to take home a souvenir of Amman. In fact, they have gift sets from 70 euros. The experience inside is unique, as it disconnects you from the urban bustle. The country has other handicraft specialties, such as the production of mosaics, handkerchiefs and towels, ceramics, nuts and spices.

6. Visit Madaba, Mount Nebo and the Dead Sea from Amman

You can't pass through Amman without stopping to contemplate the beauties around it. I recommend you to take advantage of the best local tours and excursions to live a magical experience. You can visit Madaba, an artistic center, known for its preserved architecture from the Byzantine period. Usually, this type of experience also takes you to Mount Nebo, from where, according to the Bible, Moses first saw the Promised Land.

This peak is approximately 817 meters high and is the highest point in the region, so it offers panoramic views. It is also the site of Moses' tomb, however it is somewhat symbolic because his body was never found. Taking advantage of its central location, you can visit the place where Jesus Christ was baptized and go trekking in the Al-Mujib Siq. On the other hand, I recommend going down to the Dead Sea to enjoy a salty and healing bath.

Book a day trip to Madaba, Mount Nebo and the Dead Sea from Amman

7. Escape to Jerash, Ajloun Castle and Umm Qais from Amman

The ruins are one of Jordan's main attractions, due to their antiquity and historical, religious and cultural significance. A short distance from Amman, Jerash is located a piece of Rome in Jordan. It belonged to the Decapolis and preserves archaeological remains of great historical value. Here you can see Hadrian's Arch, the Roman theaters and the hippodrome, where games and massive events were held in the past.

Further north, you will find Ajloun Castle, a hidden gem where I recommend you visit the archaeological museum that houses its history. It has witnessed different eras, so you will find pieces from the Byzantine period and pottery from the Bronze Age. Of course, you can't miss Umm Qais, a Roman ruins overlooking the Jordan Valley. From here the views are breathtaking, as there are Roman theaters, Greco-Roman remains and historical monuments.

Book a day trip to Jerash, Ajloun Castle and Umm Qais from Amman

8. Go hiking in Wadi al Mujib from Amman

Wadi Al Waleh excursion|©Terhaal Adventures

The Wadi al Mujib is a wonder near Amman, which will certainly not leave you indifferent. It is the deepest nature reserve in the world, with a variety of landscapes that you can appreciate in a hiking and canyoning experience. It is not recommended to travel alone, as it is expensive and unsafe. Don't worry! The best Amman tours and excursions take you to explore the Jordan River Gorge, which extends to the Dead Sea and the mountains of Karak and Madaba.

It is only available in summer, as you can't walk through the gorge when there is rainfall. Additionally, here you can jump on a zipline, right at the Mujib Bridge. You will also have the opportunity to enjoy a swim in the natural pools of the falls, as well as learn about the history of the region and appreciate the panoramic views. Please note that during the tour you will pass through:

Siq Trail: this is the first section of the gorge, with sandstone and shade to cover you from the heat.
Path of the ravines: here you start to enter the trekking area, there are deeper natural pools so be careful.
Malaqi trail: it is a trail that connects with the Hidan river, there is a waterfall that is only recommended to access with professionals.
Ibex Trail: offers views of the Dead Sea and the path turns into a dry valley, at the end of the section you will find a particular species. This is the Nubian ibex, a type of goat that inhabits Egypt, Sudan, Jordan, Israel, Oman and part of Saudi Arabia.
Al Ai Trail: this is the last stretch, where there are more pools. At the end of the path you will find an old mill.

Against a hiking tour on the Wadi Mujib Siq trail from Amman

9. Tour the Umayyad Desert Castles from Amman

The various Umayyad Castles are a hidden gem in the desert of Jordan. Almost all of them are located about an hour and a half from the capital. The best tours and excursions in Amman take you to know the secrets of this arid area. Going on your own is quite complicated, as there is no public transportation in the area and for miles you will find no signs of life. Getting to the castle area is only for the brave, but it is worth it. Here you will find ancient buildings that functioned as inns, known as caravanserais.

There are also hunting lodges that were ancient estates, as well as fortresses and castles. Among the most relevant are:

Qasr Al Azraq: it was a castle that was used as a military fort at repeated points in history, you can still visit the rooms, the mosque, ruins of the prison and remains of Roman archeology.
Qusayr Amra: is a castle in the middle of nowhere, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can take a look at the natural fresco formations, the audience hall and the Roman baths.
Qasr Kharana: it is a kind of fortress, which preserves its structure and is presumed to have been a hideout of the Arab elite.

10. Explore the baptismal site of Bethany.

Baptism in the Jordan River|©ADAM MUSIAŁ

If you want to visit the location of Jesus' baptism in the Jordan, you can take advantage of a getaway from Amman. It is located about an hour from the city and is a magical experience, where you will be introduced to amazing stories of the biblical lands. It is a tour that will take you to marvel at the arid landscapes of the capital.

You can do the tour on your own, or sign up for a guided experience on one of Amman's best tours and excursions, which you can find from around 93 euros. Sometimes it tends to be confused with the village of Bethany, where Lazarus and Mary Magdalene lived, so keep that in mind. A complete itinerary, will insert you in a historical tour where you can appreciate a baptism ceremony and Al Maghtas, the exact point where they baptized in the past. In addition, you can visit:

The Bethany Museum: a place where you can learn about the history of Christianity, as it houses objects, paintings and costumes from other eras.
The Spring of John the Baptist: it is a path that connects to Al Maghtas, which is worth a look.
Ancient Pool: baptisms were performed here during the Byzantine period.
Church of St. Baptist: a shrine built in honor of John the Baptist.
Iraq Al Amir Caves and pre-Roman Qasr al-Abad Palace: locations that stand out for their antiquity, as well as the trails and olive groves.

<div class="post-button" markdown="1""><a href="link|text=Book a tour of the Bethany baptism site|element=pa-4126">Book a tour of the Bethany baptism site</a></div><h2 data-number="11. ">Enjoy a tour of Petra, Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea from Amman</h2><figure><figcaption href="image|size=medium|url=https://res.cloudinary.com/hello-tickets/image/upload/v1709596735/post_images/Amman/ver%20y%20hacer/8357861945_b1b2116943_k_Cropped.jpg|caption=People near rocky buildings|©Jumilla">People near rocky buildings</figcaption></figure>To introduce you to a journey through the history of Jordan, nothing better than a combined visit to Petra, Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea. I recommend you to dedicate at least 2 to 3 days. This way, you can explore the natural wonders and spend a night under the stars. You can start at <a href="link|text=Petra|url=https://viajes.nationalgeographic.com.es/a/petra-que-ver-joya-nabatea-jordania-80-todavia-oculto_13675">Petra</a>, a wonder carved in Petra 2,000 years ago. To <a href="link|text=visit Petra|element=sc-312-4977">visit Petra</a> from Amman, you can opt for an excursion to discover its villages. Then you can spend the night in a Bedouin camp in the valley of the moon, located in Wadi Rum. It's the perfect excuse for nighttime activities and dinner under the stars. The next day you can enjoy a ride through the desert, there are tours full of adrenaline in a 4x4 Jeep. To end the route, don't forget to stop by the Dead Sea to enjoy the healing properties of this oasis.<div class="post-button" markdown="1"><a href="link|text=Book a 3-day tour to Petra, Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea from Amman|element=pa-4120">Book a 3-day tour to Petra, Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea from Amman</a></div><h2 data-number="">Tips for visiting Amman</h2><figure><figure><caption href="image|size=medium|url=https://res.cloudinary.com/hello-tickets/image/upload/v1709602505/post_images/Amman/ver%20y%20hacer/16476641806_19ccff2148_k_Cropped.jpg|caption=View of the multi-layered cityscape of Amman|©Aidan McRae Thomson">View of the multi-layered cityscape of Amman</figcaption></figure></figure><ul> <li>To enter Jordan you need a visa, it can be processed at the border and airports, although, depending on your nationality, it is best to check with the Jordanian embassy in your country.</li> <li>Taxis make trips between cities, even of more than four hours. However, they are a little expensive.</li> <li>In Amman and other cities, the dress code is strict, especially for visiting mosques. Sleeveless shirts, shorts and tight-fitting clothing are frowned upon. However, unlike in other Arab countries Jordanians are generally very understanding of language and cultural barriers, but it's best to show respect beforehand.</li> <li>The <a href="link|text=Jordan Pass|url=https://jordanpass.jo/">Jordan Pass</a> is an excellent way to save money, as it includes access to around forty sites.</li> </ul>.