Amman, the relaxed and often underappreciated capital of Jordan, is finally revealing its complex charm to travelers. It's the perfect start and end point for any Jordanian adventure. The city boasts incredible historic sites, like the still-active Roman Theatre and the Neolithic-era ruins at the Citadel, offering history lovers a glimpse deep into the past.
Beyond history, Amman buzzes with life through its bars, restaurants, and cafés—don't miss Rainbow Street, a lively spot ideal for walking and exploring. Outdoor enthusiasts will also find great hikes, horseback riding, and even go-karting on the city's outskirts. Rainbow Street itself is lined with colorful shisha cafés (interesting to see but often better to skip). For a more relaxed vibe, head to Salam Kanaan Gallery, filled with cozy couches, a piano for guests to play, and the warm aesthetic of a traditional Arab grandparent's home.
Detour: At the end of Rainbow Street, take the stairs down to reach Downtown Amman and the Grand Husseini Mosque, one of the city's earliest modern mosques. Book your tour now!
Day Trips from Amman
Amman serves as the perfect starting point for exploring Jordan’s famous attractions. Here are some of the best day trips from Amman:
2. Jerash & Ajloun Castle Full-Day Tour
1. Wander Through Ancient Ruins at Amman Citadel
Perched atop the highest of Amman’s seven hills, the Citadel (Jabal al-Qal'a) is a plateau scattered with relics from many eras. Among the oldest are Neolithic shards dating back before 5000 BCE, while the most striking are the towering ruins of the Roman Temple of Hercules from around 160 CE.
Nearby, a charming garden plaza hosts a small museum featuring well-preserved artifacts, including Ammonite burial vessels and life-sized Roman statues. Scattered around the plaza, you’ll also find fragments like the colossal marble fingers of a lost monument.
Detour: A mile away, Jasmine House is hidden but well worth seeking out. It’s an art gallery by day and arguably Jordan’s best Italian restaurant by night.
2. Discover Ancient Artifacts at The Jordan Museum
Walking through The Jordan Museum feels surreal—viewing some of the world's oldest artifacts inside a strikingly modern building. The museum's creative layout reflects different eras through varied walls and floors, but the real highlights are the exhibits themselves.
Don't miss the Ain Ghazal statues—over 9000 years old—considered some of the earliest human figures ever made. You’ll also find a few of the famed Dead Sea Scrolls.
Detour: Across the street, Amman City Hall offers a quick stop with public exhibitions and a small café.
3. Step Back in Time at the Roman Theatre
Amman is built atop layer upon layer of ancient cities. A standout is the Roman Theatre, a 6000-seat structure from the 2nd century CE, likely during the reign of Antoninus Pius. Nearby, the smaller 500-seat Odeon and the remains of the Nymphaeum bathhouse add to the Roman legacy.
Today, the theatre and surrounding plazas are lively with locals, and concerts are often held there—highly recommended if you get the chance.
4. Walk Down the Lively Rainbow Street
Rainbow Street is one of Amman’s most famous streets, perfect for an afternoon stroll. It's filled with colorful murals, trendy cafés, boutiques, and art galleries. Street performers, shisha cafés, and rooftop lounges give it a vibrant energy, especially in the evenings.
For souvenirs, explore the charming shops selling handicrafts, handmade jewelry, and unique artworks. It's also a great spot to enjoy a meal or coffee while people-watching.
Detour: At the end of Rainbow Street, descend the historic stairs toward Downtown Amman and explore the bustling markets and the Grand Husseini Mosque.
5. Marvel at the Beauty of King Abdullah I Mosque
Known locally as the Blue Mosque, King Abdullah I Mosque was built in the 1980s and is admired for its stunning design. The white stone courtyard features striking blue mosaic calligraphy, and the massive dome feels even grander inside.
Visitors can also explore two small Islamic museums onsite.
Planning Tip: Respect the mosque’s customs. Dress modestly, women must cover their heads, and everyone must remove shoes before entering carpeted areas.
6. Get Inspired at Darat al-Funun
Darat al-Funun ("House of the Arts") is a contemporary arts center spread across a staircase and lush gardens. It hosts exhibitions from traditional visual arts to experimental performances at "The Lab," a concrete performance space below the main complex.
Planning Tip: Darat al-Funun closes for the entire month of August.
7. Join a Grandma-Style Cooking Class at Beit Sitti
Beit Sitti ("My Grandmother’s House") offers fun and lively cooking classes in a traditional home. Led by charismatic women, these sessions are all about sharing techniques without relying on strict recipes. After cooking, everyone shares the meal together.
Planning Tip: Classes cost JD20–30 (US$28–42) and must be reserved in advance.
8. Stroll Down The Boulevard in Abdali
The Boulevard, in the Abdali district, is a polished, Dubai-style development featuring hotels, upscale cafes, shops, and open-air walkways. It's a stylish place to spend a few hours.
Detour: For a more authentic experience, wander over to Suleiman Al Nabulsi Street, lined with street vendors and coffee stands.
9. Enjoy a Traditional Arabic Breakfast at Hashem Restaurant
Hashem is an institution in Amman, serving up classic dishes like hummus, fuul (fava bean paste), and falafel for over 65 years. Simple, delicious, and affordable, the restaurant’s open-air seating has an old-world charm.
10. Dive into the Artistic Spirit of Lweibdeh
Lweibdeh is Amman’s artsy neighborhood, filled with informal art spaces, casual cafés, and unique events like tarot readings and indie film festivals. It’s a vibrant place where creative souls gather to collaborate and share ideas.
11. Browse the Bustling Souks of Downtown Amman
Downtown Amman, also called "Al-Balad," is a chaotic, colorful maze of markets selling everything from spices and perfumes to scarves and antiques. You’ll hear vendors shouting, smell roasting nuts and spices, and see colorful displays of fabrics and souvenirs.
It's the best place to feel the city's pulse and pick up authentic gifts—just remember, bargaining is part of the experience!
Detour: Visit the nearby Duke’s Diwan, a preserved historic house turned into a cozy cultural space.
12. Chill Out at Books@Cafe>;;
This café is an Amman classic, and not just for the food. It's one of the city's first open-minded cultural hubs—a colorful place where locals and travelers alike meet, work, or relax with a book and coffee. The rooftop view over Amman’s rolling hills is stunning, especially at sunset.
13. Experience the City’s Nightlife
While Amman may seem conservative during the day, it comes alive at night! In areas like Abdoun and Jabal Amman, you’ll find rooftop bars, live music venues, and stylish lounges. Cantaloupe, Sekrab, and District are great rooftop spots to grab a drink and enjoy views of the city.
For a more local vibe, find a café with oud (traditional Arabic guitar) performances.
Bonus Tip: Visit Rainbow Street on a Thursday Night
Thursday is the start of the Jordanian weekend, and Rainbow Street becomes a lively celebration. Locals and tourists fill the street, street musicians perform, pop-up vendors sell crafts and snacks, and the whole area buzzes with energy.
Insider Tip: If you want a quieter experience, visit Rainbow Street in the late afternoon before the evening rush starts.
Final Thought
Amman is a city that reveals its magic slowly—you just need to give it time. Between the historic sites, delicious food, welcoming people, and creative spirit, you’ll find it’s a perfect blend of old and new.
It’s not just a stopover between Petra and the Dead Sea; it’s a destination all its own.