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 part is that it's quite safe, with friendly people and impeccable food. From reflecting on the baptismal site of Jesus Christ to the multi-sensory experience of the souk, you'll find something fun for the whole family. 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 neighbouring cities to visit Petra, Jerash, Umm Qais, etc. Here are the must-visit plans in Amman!

1. Discover the most special places in Amman

Amman is a very interesting city, and the best way to get to know it in depth is to take a tour of every corner. In the capital you can take a look at the ruins of historic monuments, such as the pillars of the Roman Temple of Hercules. In one day you can see all that 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 customisable itinerary starting at around 133 euros.

The city certainly brings together a contrast of past and present, offering both modern and ancient spaces. The hills and lookout points are well worth a climb to enjoy the panoramic views. Also, if you plan to see the mosques, museums and palaces, the best option is to purchase the Jordan Pass, which allows you to see a variety of Amman's sights. Places you can't miss are:

The King Abdullah Mosque, a local icon, and the only one that women can enter, under certain conditions and dress codes. Its colourful dome can be seen from several points in Amman.
The Roman Amphitheatre, which is one of the few surviving Roman theatres in the world, is an amazing structure.
The Amman Citadel, the best place to see the city, especially at sunset.
The Raghadan Palace, where the remains of King Hussein lie.

Book a guided tour of Amman

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

Amman is a city with a variety of entertainment options, so be amazed. As well as ruins, castles and natural spectacles, you can enjoy a colourful and bustling flea market. There are the classic souks, which are open-air Arab markets. People often visit them to bring nuts and dried fruits, as they have a special Jordanian flavour.

It's a great place to shop, and it's usually held on Fridays. It is an experience full of unique smells, textures and flavours. 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 splash of colour to the ageing streets of the ruins. Rainbow Street is also home to quaint cafes, with terraces offering panoramic views.

3. See Amman's Roman Amphitheatre

The Roman Amphitheatre is one of Amman's most visited wonders, having been built in the 2nd century. Located opposite the Citadel, it's a must-see and costs around 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. However, the structure is best appreciated around 10:00 a.m., when the sun's rays are at their strongest. 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. You'll feel the adrenaline rush as you descend and enjoy the panoramic views of Amman. For safety reasons, I don't recommend you go near the edge, as there are no handrails.

4. Enjoy Jordanian food from Amman's observation decks

The ruins and colours of Amman are worth a look from above. You'll find lookout points throughout the city, which tend to be very busy at sunset. The one at 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'll find a modern building with a cafe offering 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 its own techniques, but is also influenced by other Arab countries. Specifically, Syrian, Iraqi, Lebanese and other foods.

5. Delve into Amman's soap and cosmetics shop

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

It's an old house with an undeniable charm. They offer moisturisers, 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 hustle and bustle of the city. The country has other handicraft specialities, 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 take in the beauty all around you. Take advantage of the best local tours and excursions for a magical experience. You can visit Madaba, an artistic centre 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 metres 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 site of Jesus Christ's baptism and go trekking in the Al-Mujib Siq. On the other hand, I recommend going down to the Dead Sea for a salty, healing swim.

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 lies Jerash, 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, Roman theatres and the hippodrome, where games and mass events were held in the past.

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

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

8. Hike in Wadi al Mujib from Amman

Wadi Al Waleh Excursion|©Terhaal Adventures

The Wadi al Mujib is a wonderland 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's not advisable to travel alone, as it's expensive and unsafe - don't worry! Amman' s best 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's only available in summer, as you can't walk in the ravines when it rains. 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 at 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: this is where you start to enter the trekking area, there are deeper natural pools so be careful.
Malaqi Trail: this is a trail that connects to the Hidan River, there is a waterfall which is only recommended to be accessed by professionals.
Ibex Trail: offers views of the Dead Sea and the path turns into a dry valley, at the end of which you will come across a particular species. This is the Nubian ibex, a type of goat that lives in Egypt, Sudan, Jordan, Israel, Oman and part of Saudi Arabia.
Al Ai Trail: this is the last section, 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 Jordanian desert. 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 discover the secrets of this arid area. Getting there on your own is quite tricky, as there is no public transport in the area and for miles you won't see any signs of life. Getting to the castle area is only for the brave, but it's well worth it. Here you will find ancient buildings that functioned as inns, known as caravanserais.

There are also hunting lodges that used to be old estates, as well as fortresses and castles. Among the most important of these are:

Qasr Al Azraq: 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 archaeology.
Qusayr Amra: is a castle in the middle of nowhere, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can take a look at the natural fresco formations, the audience hall and the Roman baths.
Qasr Kharana: is a fortress of sorts, which retains its structure and is presumed to have been a hideout for 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 make the most of a trip from Amman. It is located about an hour from the city and is a magical experience, where you will be introduced to amazing stories from the biblical lands. It's 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 can be found 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 full itinerary will take you on a historical tour where you can see a baptismal ceremony and Al Maghtas, the exact spot where baptisms were performed 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: this is a path that connects to Al Maghtas and is worth a visit.
Ancient Pool: baptisms were performed here during the Byzantine period.
Church of St. Baptist: a shrine built in honour of John the Baptist.
Iraq Al Amir Caves and pre-Roman Qasr al-Abad Palace: locations noted for their antiquity, as well as for the paths and olive groves.

<div class="post-button" markdown="1""><a href="link|text=Book a tour of the Bethany baptismal 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 the history of Jordan, there's nothing better than a combined tour of Petra, Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea. I recommend a minimum of 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 into 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 spend the night in a Bedouin camp in the Valley of the Moon in Wadi Rum. It's the perfect excuse for night-time activities and dinner under the stars. The next day you can enjoy a ride through the desert, with adrenaline-filled tours in a 4x4 Jeep. At the end of the tour, 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 obtained 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 journeys between cities, even journeys 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 clothes 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 a excellent way to save money, as it includes access to around forty sites.</li> </ul>.