A 2nd-century Roman theater with a seating capacity of 6,000 people, it is a testament to the Roman architecture.

Built during the reign of Antoninus Pius (138-161 AD), the Roman Theater in Amman is a popular tourist attraction and a local landmark. It's a remarkable example of Roman architecture. /n The theater, which seats around 6,000 people, was cut into the northern side of a hill, and it's still used for cultural events today. The site also includes a museum that displays Jordanian and Roman artifacts. The Roman Theater is a testament to the city's rich history and the Roman influence on its architecture and culture.

The Roman Theater is a 2nd-century monument located in the Jordanian capital of Amman.

Traditional Jordanian dish made of lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt and served with rice or bulgur.

Mansaf is a traditional Jordanian dish made from lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt, known as jameed, and served with rice or bulgur. It is the national dish of Jordan and often associated with hospitality and generosity. The dish is a symbol of Jordanian culture and is often served on special occasions and large gatherings. /n The preparation of Mansaf involves cooking the lamb in a broth of jameed and spices until it is tender. The meat is then served on a large platter with a layer of flatbread at the bottom, topped with rice or bulgur, and then the meat. The dish is garnished with almonds and pine nuts. The jameed sauce is poured over the dish before serving. Eating Mansaf is a communal activity, often involving the use of one's hands, and is a significant social ritual in Jordanian culture.

Mansaf is a traditional Jordanian dish made from lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt.

An ancient citadel located on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the city and housing historical sites like the Temple of Hercules.

The Amman Citadel is a historical site at the center of downtown Amman, Jordan. Known for its historical significance, the Amman Citadel is a must-visit site in Jordan. It offers panoramic views of the city and a glimpse into the history of civilizations that have passed through the region. /n The site contains several structures, including the Temple of Hercules, a Byzantine church, and the Umayyad Palace. The Citadel is also home to the Jordan Archaeological Museum, which houses artifacts from the site and other parts of Jordan.

The Amman Citadel is a historical site at the center of downtown Amman, Jordan.

Shawarma is a popular Levantine Arab dish consisting of meat cut into thin slices, stacked in a cone-like shape, and roasted on a slowly-turning vertical rotisserie or spit. It is commonly served in a wrap or pita, with ingredients like hummus, pickles, vegetables, and garlic sauce.

Shawarma is a popular street food in Amman, made from thinly sliced cuts of meat, like chicken or beef, that are marinated and then slow-roasted on a vertical rotisserie. The meat is then shaved off the stack with a large knife and served in a pita bread with vegetables, pickles, and tahini sauce. /n Shawarma stands can be found all over Amman, serving this delicious and filling snack. The meat is marinated in a mixture of spices, including garlic, cumin, coriander, and turmeric, giving it a distinct and flavorful taste. The slow roasting process ensures that the meat is tender and juicy. The addition of fresh vegetables and pickles adds a crunch to the sandwich, while the tahini sauce provides a creamy and tangy element. Shawarma is a must-try for anyone visiting Amman.

Shawarma is a popular street food in Amman, made from thinly sliced cuts of meat.

A vibrant and cosmopolitan street in Amman, known for its shopping, dining, and nightlife.

Rainbow Street, located in the heart of Amman, Jordan, is a vibrant and lively area that offers a wide range of attractions. The street is lined with a variety of restaurants, offering everything from traditional Jordanian cuisine to international dishes. In addition, there are numerous shops where you can buy local crafts, clothing, and other souvenirs. /n But Rainbow Street is not just about food and shopping. It's also a hub of entertainment, with numerous cafes, bars, and clubs where you can enjoy live music, performances, and other events. Whether you're looking to enjoy a delicious meal, do some shopping, or simply soak up the atmosphere, Rainbow Street is a must-visit when in Amman.

Rainbow Street is a vibrant area in Amman, known for its restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.

Experience the captivating blend of ancient and modern in Amman, Jordan's bustling capital. This city is a treasure trove of historical sites, including the Amman Citadel, Roman Theatre, and King Abdullah Mosque. Wander through the vibrant streets of downtown Amman, where you can sample traditional Jordanian cuisine, shop for local crafts, and immerse yourself in the city's lively atmosphere. Don't miss the Royal Automobile Museum, showcasing King Hussein's personal car collection. Venture outside the city to the Dead Sea, or the stunning desert landscapes of Wadi Rum. With its rich history, diverse culture, and warm hospitality, Amman offers an unforgettable Middle Eastern travel experience.

Roman Theater

Mansaf

Amman Citadel

Shawarma

Rainbow Street

Start your day with a visit to the ancient Roman Theater, a 2nd-century monument that offers a glimpse into the city's rich history. This well-preserved amphitheater can seat up to 6,000 people and is still used for performances today.

Enjoy a traditional Jordanian lunch in a local restaurant. Try the national dish, Mansaf, a hearty meal of lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt and served over rice.

After lunch, head to the Amman Citadel, an historical site at the center of downtown Amman. Known for its beautiful views of the city and its ancient buildings, it's a must-see for any visitor.

For dinner, indulge in some local street food. Try Shawarma, a popular Middle Eastern dish made of thinly sliced, seasoned meat wrapped in a soft flatbread.

End your day with a stroll down Rainbow Street, a vibrant area filled with shops, cafes, and art galleries. It's the perfect place to relax, people-watch, and soak in the city's lively atmosphere.

A Day of Historical Exploration and Local Cuisine in Amman

Daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Friday in March, ends last Friday in October

UTC+2

Taxis are a common way to get around in Amman. They are available 24/7 and can be hailed from the street. All taxis are metered, but it's a good idea to confirm the fare before starting your journey.

Careem is a popular ridesharing app in Amman, similar to Uber. It's a convenient way to get around the city, especially if you're not familiar with the area. You can book a ride directly from your smartphone and track your driver's location.

Public buses are a cheap and efficient way to travel around Amman. They cover most areas of the city and run on a regular schedule. However, they can be crowded during peak hours and may not be the most comfortable option.

Renting a car can be a good option if you're planning to explore outside of Amman or if you prefer to have more control over your travel schedule. Keep in mind that driving in Amman can be challenging due to heavy traffic and different driving habits.

Uber is available in Amman and works much the same way as it does in other countries. It's a convenient and reliable way to get around, especially if you prefer not to haggle over taxi fares.

Hiring a private driver can be a convenient and comfortable way to get around Amman. This can be arranged through your hotel or a local travel agency. It's a good option if you're planning to visit several places in one day or if you prefer not to navigate the city on your own.

Many of Amman's attractions are located close to each other, making walking a viable option. The city is hilly, so be prepared for some uphill climbs. Walking can be a great way to experience the city's atmosphere and discover hidden gems.

Biking is not a common mode of transportation in Amman due to the city's hilly terrain and heavy traffic. However, there are some bike rental shops and guided bike tours available if you're up for the challenge.

The national dish of Jordan, Mansaf is a traditional Bedouin meal made of lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt and served with rice or bulgur.

A Bedouin style barbecue, Zarb involves meat and vegetables slow-cooked in an underground sand oven. It's a popular dish in the desert regions of Jordan.

Zarb

A traditional Jordanian dish, Maqluba is a one-pot meal made with meat, rice, and vegetables, which are cooked together then flipped upside down to serve.

Maqluba

A popular street food in Amman, Shawarma is a sandwich-like wrap of shaved chicken, goat, beef, or mixed meats with vegetables and sauce.

A common street food in Jordan, Falafel is a deep-fried ball or patty made from ground chickpeas, fava beans, or both.

Falafel

A staple in Jordanian cuisine, Hummus is a spread made from cooked, mashed chickpeas blended with tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and garlic.

Hummus

A healthy and refreshing salad, Tabbouleh is made of finely chopped parsley with tomatoes, mint, onion, bulgur, and seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Tabbouleh

Also known as Baba Ganoush, Mutabbal is a dip made from roasted eggplant mixed with tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and various seasonings.

Mutabbal

A traditional Middle Eastern dessert, Knafeh is a cheese pastry soaked in sweet, sugar-based syrup. It's a popular dessert in Amman.

Knafeh

A symbol of Jordanian hospitality, Arabic Coffee is a strong, bitter coffee brewed with cardamom and often served with dates.

Arabic Coffee

A popular drink in Jordan, Mint Tea is a refreshing blend of black tea and mint leaves, often sweetened with sugar.

Mint Tea

A traditional Middle Eastern spirit, Arak is a clear, anise-flavored liquor. It's often mixed with water and ice and enjoyed with meals.

Arak

New Year's Day

Eid al-Fitr

Eid al-Fitr holiday

Labour Day

Independence Day

Royal Wedding Half Day Holiday

Royal Wedding Holiday

Arafah

Eid al-Adha

Eid al-Adha holiday

Muharram/New Year

Prophet's Birthday

Christmas Day

The ruins of the ancient city of Jerash, one of the most well-preserved Greco-Roman cities in the world.

Jerash

The lowest point on earth, known for its therapeutic properties and ability to float on water.

Dead Sea

Known as the 'City of Mosaics', famous for its Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics, especially a large Byzantine-era mosaic map of the Holy Land.

Madaba

An elevated ridge mentioned in the Bible as the place where Moses was granted a view of the Promised Land.

Mount Nebo

A 12th-century Muslim castle situated in northwestern Jordan, it was built by the Ayyubids to protect against the Crusaders.

Ajloun Castle

A historical and archaeological city famous for its rock-cut architecture and water conduit system. It is also known as the Rose City due to the color of the stone.

Petra

A valley cut into the sandstone and granite rock in southern Jordan. It is the largest wadi in Jordan.

Wadi Rum

The birthplace of Jesus of Nazareth and a major Christian pilgrimage destination.

Bethlehem

A city in the Middle East, located on a plateau in the Judaean Mountains between the Mediterranean and the Dead Sea. It is one of the oldest cities in the world, and is considered holy to the three major Abrahamic religions—Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.

Jerusalem

The Dead Sea

Amman is the capital and largest city of Jordan.

The official language is Arabic, but English is widely spoken and understood.

The local currency is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments or street vendors.

Amman is generally safe for tourists, but it's always important to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

The city is predominantly Muslim, so it's important to respect local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

The best time to visit Amman is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild. Summers can be hot, with temperatures reaching up to 90°F (32°C), and winters can be cold, with temperatures dropping to around 40°F (4°C).

Tipping is customary in Jordan. A 10% tip is generally expected in restaurants, while a small tip for taxi drivers and hotel staff is appreciated.

Public transportation in Amman includes buses and taxis. However, taxis are the most convenient and affordable way to get around the city.

Amman is a city of hills, so be prepared for some steep walks. Comfortable shoes are a must.

The city is in the Eastern European Time Zone (EET), which is 2 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+2).

Jordanians are known for their hospitality. Don't be surprised if you're invited into a local's home for tea or a meal.

It's important to stay hydrated, especially during the hot summer months. Bottled water is readily available throughout the city.

Smoking is very common in Jordan, and many restaurants and cafes have smoking and non-smoking sections.

Alcohol is available in Amman, but public drunkenness is frowned upon. Always drink responsibly.

The power plugs and sockets are of type C, D, F, G, and J. The standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.

Amman has a mix of modernity and tradition. You'll find bustling markets (souks) alongside modern shopping malls.

If you're a foodie, try the local cuisine. Popular dishes include mansaf (a traditional Jordanian dish made of lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt) and falafel.

Always ask for permission before taking photos of locals, especially women.

Amman is a great base for day trips to other attractions in Jordan, such as the Dead Sea, Petra, and Wadi Rum.

Lastly, always have a copy of your passport and important documents with you in case of emergencies.

January is the coldest month in Amman, with occasional rainfall. Pack warm clothes and a raincoat.

February is slightly warmer than January, but still quite chilly. Rain is less frequent, but still possible.

March sees a noticeable increase in temperature. The weather is generally pleasant, with occasional rain showers.

April is a great month to visit Amman, with warm days and cool nights. Rain is rare, but possible.

May is the start of the hot season in Amman. The weather is generally dry and sunny, perfect for outdoor activities.

June is quite hot in Amman, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy hot weather.

July is the hottest month in Amman. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy hot, dry weather.

August is similar to July, with hot, dry weather. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy the heat.

September sees a slight decrease in temperature. The weather is still quite hot, but evenings can be cool.

October is a great month to visit Amman, with warm days and cool nights. Rain is rare, but possible.

November sees a noticeable decrease in temperature. The weather is generally pleasant, with occasional rain showers.

December is quite chilly in Amman, with temperatures often dropping below 10°C. Pack warm clothes and a raincoat.

When planning a trip to Amman, Jordan, it's important to consider the city's weather patterns to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. 

Amman experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. Summer, which runs from June to September, sees average temperatures ranging from 77°F to 90°F (25°C to 32°C). It's a great time for sightseeing, but remember to stay hydrated and wear sun protection due to the intense heat.

Winter, from December to March, is quite different with temperatures dropping to between 40°F and 60°F (4°C to 15°C). Rainfall is common during this period, so packing a raincoat or umbrella would be wise. 

The transitional seasons, spring (April and May) and autumn (October and November), offer mild and pleasant weather. Temperatures typically range from 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C), making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the city's historical sites.

Regardless of when you visit, it's worth noting that Amman's weather can change quickly due to its location in the hills, so it's a good idea to pack layers. Also, the city can get quite windy, especially in the evenings, so a light jacket or wrap might come in handy.

Lastly, if you're planning to visit the desert regions or the Dead Sea, be prepared for higher temperatures and less rainfall than in Amman. Always carry plenty of water and sun protection. 

Remember, these are average conditions and actual weather can vary, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast close to your departure. Enjoy your trip to Amman!

Cookie consent

1-Day Locals' Solo Sightseeing Adventure in Amman, Jordan

About Amman, Jordan