10 Best Things to Do in Amman, Jordan

Explore Roman ruins, hillside neighborhoods, museums, and markets across Jordan’s capital.

Amman is a city of contrasts—where Roman ruins overlook busy traffic circles, Ottoman facades face off against glass towers, and coffee shops sit beside 1st-century theaters. Built across a series of hills and valleys, Jordan’s capital is often the starting point for travelers heading deeper into the country. But the city itself has a layered history and cultural rhythm that deserves attention. From archaeological sites to lively souks, here are some of the most interesting things to do in Amman.

Visit the Amman Citadel

Perched on one of the city’s highest hills, the Amman Citadel offers views in every direction, along with archaeological remains dating back thousands of years. The site includes the Temple of Hercules, Umayyad Palace, and fragments of Byzantine churches. The attached Jordan Archaeological Museum houses finds from the site, including some of the world’s oldest human statues.

Explore the Roman Theater

Just below the Citadel, the Roman Theater remains one of Amman’s most impressive landmarks. Built in the 2nd century CE, it could hold up to 6,000 people and is still used today for cultural events. Nearby, you’ll find the Folklore Museum and Popular Traditions Museum, both offering a small but focused look into Jordanian life and heritage.

Wander Through Downtown and Al-Balad

Al-Balad is Amman’s historic downtown—busy, slightly chaotic, and full of local color. It’s the place to walk without a set destination. Browse the gold shops, spice stalls, and fruit vendors, or stop for tea in a decades-old café. Streets are narrow and often crowded, but it’s one of the best places to experience everyday life in the capital.

Visit the Jordan Museum

For a more structured overview of Jordan’s history, the Jordan Museum offers well-designed exhibits that cover prehistoric times through modern independence. It includes important artifacts such as the Ain Ghazal statues—some of the oldest human-made figures ever discovered—and a section dedicated to the Dead Sea Scrolls.

Stop at the King Abdullah I Mosque

Known for its striking blue dome, the King Abdullah I Mosque is one of the few mosques in Jordan open to non-Muslim visitors. Built in the 1980s, it can accommodate thousands of worshippers and includes a small museum of Islamic manuscripts and artifacts. Modest dress is required, and headscarves are available at the entrance.

Browse Jabal Amman and Rainbow Street

Jabal Amman, one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods, blends historic homes with modern galleries and cafés. The area around Rainbow Street is popular with both locals and visitors for its relaxed pace, street art, and scenic rooftop views. It’s a good place to take a break, especially at sunset.

Visit the Jordan Folklore Museum

Located beside the Roman Theater, the Jordan Folklore Museum is small but offers insight into the daily life and traditions of Jordanians—through clothing, tools, and traditional household items. It’s often a quick visit but a meaningful one, especially when paired with the theater itself.

Try Local Food in Traditional Eateries

Amman’s culinary scene ranges from modern fusion to old-school falafel shops. Classic spots like Hashem Restaurant serve hummus, fuul, and falafel in a no-frills setting that’s popular with everyone from taxi drivers to royalty. Habibah Sweets, known for its knafeh, is another local institution.

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Visit Darat al Funun

For a more contemporary look at Amman, Darat al Funun offers rotating art exhibitions, research spaces, and quiet courtyards overlooking the city. Housed in a group of restored villas, the center also includes remains of a Byzantine church and Roman tombs integrated into the site.

Catch the View from Jabal al-Qal’a or a Rooftop

Amman is built on hills, and sunset often offers its best light. The Citadel (Jabal al-Qal’a) is a good place for views, but so are many rooftops across the city. Cafés and guesthouses in Jabal Weibdeh and Jabal Amman often provide views of the surrounding hills and scattered mosques, domes, and minarets.

Are you ready to start discovering Jordan?

I decided to book a tour when I went to Jordan and they simplified my planning and enhanced my travel experience ! I’m leaving the link to the tour below in case you are interested!

Are you ready to start discovering Jordan?

I decided to book a tour when I went to Jordan and they simplified my planning and enhanced my travel experience ! I’m leaving the link to the tour below in case you are interested!