Top 26 Tourist Attractions to Visit and Things to do in Amman

May 1, 2020 Mustafa Natalwala 4556 Views 0 Comments

Amman is the capital city of Jordan. Amman is the 5th largest city in the Arab world. This is a city that holds great historical and even religious significance for many faiths. The places to visit in Amman have been contributions of many cultures & civilizations throughout history. You will see the history this city has been through in the monuments, museums, architecture, mosques, churches, and other Amman tourist places. The name of the city before it came to be known as Amman was Ammon and “Rabbath Ammon” before that. The name comes from the Hebrew bible.

The city of Amman is a biblical city. The Amman sightseeing spots today were once visited by biblical figures. This is a city mentioned in Hebrew & Christian lores of legendary kings David & Solomon. Though places to visit in Amman pertaining to that era are difficult to find. What you will find in abundance are Amman tourist places from the time of Greek & Roman rule over this region. But before the Greeks had taken over building what today is a catalog of things to do in Amman, this region was known as “Ayn Ghazal” meaning “Spring of the Gazelle”. The remains of this civilization can be found at the Ayn Ghazal archeological site, which is one of the important historical places to visit in Amman. Under Greek rule, Amman was renamed Philadelphia.

Amman sightseeing spots primarily focus on the remains of the great Greek empire in the region. Amman travel is like visiting Greece in the middle east. The most popular Amman tourist place is the Citadel resting on the top of a hill. The iconic pillars, which are almost synonymous with Greek & roman architecture beautiful and literally stand the test of time. No wonder it tops the Amman sightseeing list for most people. Of course, Amman travel is sometimes shadowed by the famous Petra, which is an icon of Jordan. You will easily be able to get Petra tours from Amman. You can even book Petra tours from Amman at the airport.

Now back to the Greeks, there are several remnants of the Greek & Roman empire throughout Jordan. Amman tourist places including the Roman Theater, Temple of Hercules, and of course the Citadel were created under roman rule. The Roman theater is not just among tourist attractions, it is a lively cultural hub. Performances, concerts and other events are still held at the theater. If your Amman travel coincides with one such show, then you should be a part of the audience.

After the roman empire fell, Amman was taken over by the Byzantine empire & then by Ottoman. The reminiscence of these empires can be seen in the several mosques & palaces which are also popular Amman tourist places. There are also several museums among places to go in Amman. The Royal Automobile Museum is also popular among Amman attractions. If you are not looking to delve into history much, then you can blow off some steam at Amusement Parks, Water Parks, Zoo or shopping. For tourists, shopping at the souq markets is one of the most appealing top things to do in Amman.

If you are chummy with nature, you can visit the Jordan National Park or one of the other two forest parks. Besides hiking, trekking, and camping are among the best things to do in Amman for those loving nature. If you are exploring nature, you can also visit the Cave of the Seven Sleepers of biblical fame. The story goes that seven young lads were persecuted by a roman emperor & they hid inside this cave. A visit to this cave is top among the best things to do in Jordan for those with a more religious bend. The city of Amman has a long and storied history, each story or the location of each story has been added to Amman tourist attractions.

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Table of Contents

The Best 26 Tourist Places to Visit in Amman in 4 Days (Trip Itinerary)

Day 1

1. Amman Citadel

This archeological is of roman ruins is a magnificent site, though built centuries ago, many of the tall pillars stand in defiance of time. It is one of the best places to visit in Amman, Jordan to admire the glory of ancient roman architecture. The archeological complex contains several structures including temple, forum, auditorium, theatre and more. You will need 2 hours to explore it.

I suggest you should go for a Guided Walking Tour of Food and Amman Downtown.

2. Roman Theatre

2,000 years ago, when this city was called Philedelphia, this theatre could seat more than 6,000 people. What a sight it would have been to marvel at Greek tragedies and comedies performed in this amphitheater. It is the largest archeological site among Amman tourist places. Despite centuries passing by, this theatre still retains much of its original glory. It is still used to host several events and shows. You will need about an hour to explore this ancient marvel.

3. Jordan Folklore Museum

This music focuses on the Arabian cultural heritage of Jordan and specifically from the early 19th and 20th century of Bedouin lifestyle. The recreated villages, markets, shops and houses from that period. It focuses on exhibiting art, music, handicraft, weapons, cuisine, lifestyle items, textile, clothes and more. It is one of the most interesting Amman tourist places and will require an hour to explore.

4. Grand Husseini Mosque

Though the current structure of Al Husseini Mosque is less than a century old, its history dates back to 640 BCE. This is the oldest mosque in the city. Built with pink and white stone, this mosque is among the most beautiful things to see in Amman. The architecture of this mosque features intricate stone carvings and cut marble designs. You will need half an hour to tour this monument.

5. Darat al Funun

This cultural center and contemporary arts gallery focuses on promoting and encouraging artists from Arabia. The collection includes literature, photographs, paintings, sculptures, fine art pieces and multimedia art. It is also among the finest Amman tourist attractions for artists. The center hosts many events and shows focusing one various art forms and is also a major research center for Arabic arts. You will need 30 to 45 minutes to tour this place.

6. King Abdullah I Mosque

This beautiful blue domed mosque was built in 1989 and looks like it was pulled straight out of Arabian Nights fairytale. The mosque is one of the most aesthetically appealing places to visit in Amman. Aside from its majestic dome, the mosque features intricate carving and marble cut designs. It is also well known for its rich interior decor and huge chandelier. You will need 30 to 45 minutes to tour this mosque.

7. The Jordan Museum

This museum tells the history of the country of Jordan from pre-historic times to the modern era. The museum has animal bones from pre-historic species, archeological findings from different periods, historical artifacts from the roman era, findings from the Petra, exhibits about the Bedouin culture, narrative of the Great Arab Renaissance and more. A visit to this museum will give a deep perspective to Amman sightseeing. The most well-known exhibition of this museum is Copper Scroll from the Dead Sea Scrolls. You will need at least an hour to tour this museum.

Day 2

1. Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts

This museum focuses on middle eastern art and especially on the work of Jordanian artists. The museum has more than 3,000 works of art representing artists from 70 countries. It is one of the best places to go in Amman for art enthusiasts and to get a unique insight into middle eastern culture. The exhibits of this museum include paintings, sculptures, calligraphy art, photographs, historical artifacts, textile art and more. You will need an hour from Amman travel to tour this museum.

2. Jordan Archeological Museum

This museum exhibits archeological artifacts from Paleolithic age to the Ayyubid era. The exhibits include weapons, pottery, agricultural equipments, ancient tools, religious artifacts, scrolls, architectural features, lifestyle objects, maps, archeological blueprints and more. It is among Amman must see places who seek deep insight into the history of the region. You will need about an hour and a half to tour this museum.

3. Rainbow Street

This colourful street is famous for its vibe, colorful decor, restaurants, nightlife and shops. One of the best time to visit this street during Amman travel is one Thursday and Friday nights. People come here to shop for souvenirs, handicraft items, fashion and to taste street food, local cuisines and desserts. This, aptly named, colorful street is associated with a lot of fun things to do in Amman, Jordan. You will need 30 to 45 minutes to explore this street.

4. Nabad Art Gallery

This gallery focuses on showcasing contemporary works of art by artists from the Arab world. A large part of this gallery exhibits artworks by Jordanian artists, both established and emerging. The exhibits include paintings, sculptures, photographs, prints and more. You will need about an hour tot our this gallery.

5. Duke’s Diwan

This historic house museum is developed in a 1924 building. The museum is named after Mamdouh Bisharat, who was nicknamed Duke of Mukhaibeh by King Hussein. Bisharat established a cultural center for writers, poets and artists in the building, a tradition that is still continued. It is one of the most intriguing Amman attractions for artists and art admirers. The house museum several antique items and historical artifacts on display. It also delves in the life and work of Mamdouh Bisharat. You will need about an hour to tour this museum.

6. Jordanian Museum of Popular Traditions

This museum focuses on preservation of cultural heritage of Jordan and Palestine. People get to see Bedouin costumes, masks, household items, weapons, jewelry, ceremonial dresses, camel saddles and more. You get an insight into the pre-modern lifestyle of the dessert dwelling tribes of Jordan. You will need about half an hour to tour this museum.

7. Al Pasha Turkish Bath

This is one of the few Turkish baths in Amman. Though it is designed like a traditional Turkish hammam, this establishment functions more like a spa. The bath experience includes soaking, scrubbing, massage, bubble bath, sauna and more. The facility has separate timings for men and women. You can easily spend an hour or so to relax at this place.

Day 3

1. Cave of the Seven Sleepers

This cave holds great religious, cultural and historical significance. According to Islamic and Christian traditions, these cave houses the Seven Sleepers and aided their escape from Roman Emperor Decius. It is one of the most fascinating Amman tourist attractions. You will need about an hour to tour this archeological site.

I suggest you should book a Tour to Cave of the Seven Sleepers.

2. Abu Darwish Mosque

Built in 1961, this mosque is praised for its unique black and white stonework design. The mosque is situated atop a hill and you can admire the design patterns on its facade as you approach it. The interiors of the mosque exhibit wonderful design and decor elements as well. You will need 20 to 30 minutes to tour this mosque. Keep in mind that visitor entry is prohibited during prayer hours and religious ceremonies.

3. Royal Automobile Museum

This museum exhibits the car collection of King Hussein bin Talal. The museum boasts a wonderful collection of antique, classic, modern and concept cars. Some of the highlights exhibits include 1952 Aston Martin, Bugatti Veyron, Armoured Rolls Royce from WWI, Mars Rover from The Martian film and so on. It is an interesting addition to Amman sightseeing. You will need an hour or so to tour this museum.

4. King Hussein Mosque

Built in 2005, this is the largest mosque in Jordan. The mosque is built as a large square complex with four minarets standing at each of its corners. Its interior feature elaborate carpet designs, large chandeliers and intricate stone carvings. You will need 30 to 45 minutes to explore this mosque.

5. Qasr Al-Abd

This ruined palace was one of the finest pieces of Hellenistic architecture in Jordan. The two storied palace was built with large stone blocks. The structure has survived many natural calamities including an earthquake. Despite large part of the structure being in ruins, it is still one of the finest historical Amman attractions. The carved pillars and lion sculptures are the most distinguished featured of this palace. You will need an hour and a half to tour this site.

6. The Boulevard

Often called little Dubai, this modern street is popular for shopping and dining. This high-end street has shops, showrooms, cafes, restaurants and a mall. You will need about an hour to explore this boulevard.

Day 4

1. Roman Nymphaeum

This roman public fountain dates back to 2nd century BCE. The structure is known for its sturdy pillar structure and elegant stone arches. Situated close to the theatre, this fountain was an important public gathering place for the city of Philadelphia. Today is among the most interesting historical Amman, Jordan things to do. You will be able to understand its significance better if you visit Jordan Archeological museum before exploring this place. It will take you half an hour to tour this archeological site.

2. Roman Temple of Hercules

This colossal temple is dated between 162 to 166 AD and was built under the governorship of Geminius Marcianus. It is the most important Roman structures to visit during Amman travel. You can still see several parts of the temple including its 10 meters tall pillars. There are parts of the Hercules statue scattered at the site. You will need half an hour to tour this place.

3. Umayyad Palace

Situated on the Citadel Hill, this palace dates back to the 8th century. The palace gives an insight into Jordanian architecture during the Umayyad rule. Though technically an archeological ruin, a large part of the structure stands intact, including its dome. It is also a great place to visit for Amman sightseeing as you get panoramic view of the city from this palace. You will need 30 to 45 minutes to tour this site.

4. Amman Waves

This water park in the middle of the dessert is a place to relax and enjoy. The water park has pools, games, rides, restaurant, club, entertainment fascilities and more. It is one of the top things to do in Amman, Jordan to chill in the water and beat the heat from the middle eastern sun. You can easily spend a couple of hours revel at this water park.

5. The Royal Tank Museum

As the name suggests, this military museum exhibits tanks, 140 of them. Some of the highlight combat vehicles in this museum include Soviet T34 and M4 Sherman tanks. Though not exactly among must see places, it is an interesting addition to the Amman itinerary if you want to mix things up. You will need 30 to 45 minutes to tour this museum.

6. Amman National Park

Situated just outside the city, this national park is a popular nature retreat and recreational zone. People come here for picnics, bbq outings, nature trails, hiking, camping, horseback riding and more. You can easily spend a couple of hours enjoying top things to do in Amman, Jordan at this nature reserve.

Day Trips from Amman

1. Petra Tour

Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most fascinating archeological monuments. It’s a magnanimous structure carved into stone. The structure was most famously features in the climax of Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. You can get Petra tours from Amman by bus and cabs. People can usually find tour guides at the Petra site. There are also several day-tour buses to explore Petra. You will need 4 to 5 hours for the tour.

I suggest you should book a Day Tour to Petra from Amman in advance.

2. Dead Sea Tour

The Dead Sea is an intriguing natural wonder. A water body so rich in iron and minerals that no marine life can survive in it. The dead sea is also believed to have medicinal properties. There are also several folklores, legends and stories about the Dead Sea. Some of the best Amman tourist beaches are also situated on the coast of this water body. You will need at least half a day to enjoy Dead Sea and explore attractions around it.

I suggest either you should book a Half Day Tour to Dead Sea from Amman or you should book a 2 Days Tour to Dead Sea, Petra and Wadi Rum.

3. Mujib Biosphere Reserve Tour / Wadi Mujib

Located 410 meters below sea level, this is the lowest nature reserve in the world. The biosphere includes a complex network of canyon, caves and river streams. It is one of the most popular Jordan tours from Amman. People enjoy hiking, trekking, cave exploration, swimming, offloading and several other adventure activities. You can also enjoy night camping and star gazing in this nature reserve. You should dedicate at least half a day to explore this biosphere.

I suggest you should go for a Hiking Tour to Wadi Mujib.

4. Wadi Rum Dessert Safari Tour

A dessert safari tours typically includes offroad dessert ride, ATV rides, camel ride, bedouin style camping, local cuisine and traditional performances. Dessert safari is usually an overnight experience, but is unique to the middle east. You will need to plan for half a day and a night for dessert safari tour from Amman.

I suggest you should book a Full Day Private Tour to Wadi Rum from Amman.

5. Mount Nebo Tour

According to the Bible, Moses received vision of the Promised Land on this mountain. From atop the mountain you can see cities of Jericho, Jerusalem and Nebo. Islamic and Christian religious sites are a major part of Amman, Jordan tourism. Mount Nebo is also an important archeological site. Remains of a Byzantine church, which dates back to 4th century AD, have been discovered on the mountain. You will need an entire day to explore Mount Nebo and various important places upon it. Alongside Mount Nebo, you can also tour the town of Madaba, home to the Church of St, George and Madaba mosaic map.

I suggest you should book a Half Day Mount Nebo Tour from Amman in advance.

If you are looking for more places to visit in Amman, check out the sections below. We have put together an exhaustive list of attractions and activities you can experience in and around the city.

Things to do in Amman, Jordan

Monuments, Museums & Historical Places to Visit in Amman, Jordan

Amman Citadel
Roman Theatre
King Abdullah I Mosque
The Royal Automobile Museum
Jordan Archeological Museum
Temple of Hercules
The Jordan Museum
Grand Husseini Mosque
Qasr al Mshatta
Ummayad Palace
King Hussein Mosque
The Children Museum Jordan
Abu Darwish Mosque
Qasr al Abd
Jordan Folklore Museum
Nymphaeum
Jordanian Museum of Popular Traditions
Darat al Fanun – The Khalid Shoman Foundation
Odeon Theatre
Royal Tank Museum
Byzantine Church
Raghadan Palace
Ten Arches Bridge
Martyr’s Memorial
Prophet Mohammad Museum
The Duke’s Diwan
Annunciation of Mary Church
Cave of the Seven Sleepers / Ashabul Kahf
Zahran Palace
Umayyad Mosque
Parliamentary Museum
Rujm al Malfouf
Al Balad
Ahl al Kahf
Qasr al Kharrana
Qasr al Abed
Iraq al Amir
Ayn Ghazal Archeological site
Central Bank of Jordan Currency Museum

Nature & Wildlife Tourist Places to Visit in Amman, Jordan

Amman National Park
Jordan Forest Park
King of Bahrain Kingdom Forest

Entertainment & Leisure Tourist Places to visit in Amman, Jordan

Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts
Dar al Anda Art Gallery
Nabad Art Gallery
Al Hussein Public Parks
King Abdullah II Park
Prince Hashem Bird Garden
Amman Waves Waterpark
Jordan Zoo
Ghamadan Zoo
Amman Pigeon Market
Zaha Cultural Center
Tiraz: Widad Kawar Home for Arab Dress
Climbat Amman
Zahran Park
Wadi Finan Art Gallery
Amman Marty’s Park
Haya Cultural Center
Magic Land Amusement Park
Bahath Park
The Global Village of Animals
Hussein Luna Park
Amman Railway Station
The Millennium Park
King Hussein Park
Housing Bank Garden
Amman Panorama Art Gallery
Al Wadi Waterpark
Breakout Jo
Jordan Heritage
World of Illusions

Shopping in Amman, Jordan

Taj Mall
Souq Jara
Souq Bukharia
Mecca Mall
Abdali Mall
Al Balad

Offbeat Places & Adventure Things to do in Amman, Jordan

Cycling Jordan

Sightseeing in Amman, Jordan

Hashemite Plaza
Abdoun Bridge
Jordan Gate Towers
Raghadan Flag Pole
Al Kalha Stairs
The Rainbow Street
The Boulevard

Food, Dining, Restaurants, & Street Food in Amman, Jordan

Bahath Park & Restaurant
Carakale Brewery
Hashem Restaurant
Mr. Lollies
Sufra Restaurant
Habibeh Sweet Shop
La Capitale

Where to Stay in Amman?

Here we have listed Top Rated Luxurious, Mid-Range and Budget Hotels in Amman. You can check below listed hotels for your perfect stay in Amman.

Luxurious Hotels

Mid-Range Hotels

Budget Hotels

Custom Tours Package in Amman

How to Reach Amman, Jordan?

By Air

Amman travel by air is pretty convenient owing to Queen Alia International Airport. There are direct & connecting flights form many countries. Once landed you can easily catch public transport, a cab or even rent a car to reach famous places to visit in Amman.

By Road

The road infrastructure in Jordan is pretty decent, so you won’t have any problem reaching Amman by road with public or private transport. Amman travel is well connected with other governorates of Jordan.

By Water

Amman has land on all four sides and sky above it. If boats can travel on land, then you can catch a boat for Amman travel. Also boats can travel on land, they are no longer boats. But, all jokes aside, there are no water routes to Amman.

Image Reference

Amman Citadel – Dimitris Vetsikas / PixaBay
Roman Theatre – Dimitris Vetsikas / PixaBay
Jordan Folklore Museum – Dimitris Vetsikas / PixaBay
Grand Husseini Mosque – Dimitris Vetsikas / PixaBay
Darat al Funun – Tarawneh / Wikimedia Commons
King Abdullah I Mosque – Graham Hobster / PixaBay
The Jordan Museum – Elias Rovielo / Flickr
Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts – Rami Tarawneh / Wikimedia Commons
Jordan Archaeological Museum – Dennis Jarvis / Flickr
Rainbow Street – Ldud / Wikimedia Commons
Nabad Art Gallery –
The Duke’s Diwan – Makeandtoss / Wikimedia Commons
Jordanian Museum of Popular Traditions – B10m / Flickr
Al Pasha Turkish Bath –
Cave of the Seven Sleepers – PXFuel
Abu Darwish Mosque – Zairon / Wikimedia Commons
Royal Automobile Museum – Ankur Panchbudhe / Flickr
King Hussein Mosque – Pir6mon / Wikimedia Commons
Qasr Al-Abd – Carole Raddato / Flickr
The Boulevard – Dimitris Vetsikas / PixaBay
Roman Nymphaeum – krebsmaus07 / Flickr
Roman Temple of Hercules – Dimitris Vetsikas / PixaBay
Umayyad Palace – Dimitris Vetsikas / PixaBay
Amman Waves –
The Royal Tank Museum – Freedom’s Falcon / Wikimedia Commons
Amman National Park – JeedaGhazal / Wikimedia Commons
Petra Tour – Tom Gordon / PixaBay
Dead Sea Tour – Ronald Woan / Flickr
Mujib Biosphere Reserve Tour / Wadi Mujib – hikinginjordan / Wikimedia Commons
Wadi Rum Dessert Safari Tour – ?Christel? / PixaBay
Mount Nebo Tour – Maya-Anaïs Y. / Flickr