Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Amman, Jordan. #Top Attractions

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See the wonders of Amman, Jordan. Get the most out of your vacation by exploring the best things to do in Amman, Jordan, and the best places to visit in Amman, Jordan, below. Wondrous Drifter is a Web 3.0 travel startup with ambitious goals to change the world.

Al-Husseini Mosque 

 Al-Husseini Mosque, Amman, Jordan
Al-Husseini Mosque is one of the best places to go in Amman, Jordan

One of the country’s most treasured mosques.

It’s hard to realize that Amman’s oldest mosque, Al-Husseini Mosque, was completed less than a century ago as the Jordanian kingdom’s first major architectural effort in a city with so many ancient treasures.

However, it has a long history: King Abdullah I built the pink-and-white stone structure on the site of a mosque built in 640 CE. Furthermore, the place is considered the former site of the Cathedral of Philadelphia.

After 63 years without use, the mosque was renovated in 1987 and dedicated to Sharif Hussein, the leader of the Great Arab Revolt.

It now draws up to 1,500 worshipers daily at noon and every Friday for its prayers.

You can see how significant this mosque is to Amman locals by watching the crowds from the outside, but if you’re dressed correctly, you might be permitted to enter.

Don’t forget to check out this historic mosque on your next trip to Amman.

Address: K. Talal St. 1, Amman, Jordan

Amman Citadel

Amman Citadel (Amman), Jordan
Amman Citadel (Amman), Jordan / Colin Tsoi / Flickr

 In Jordan’s capital, you don’t have to travel far to find stunning archaeological remains.

The Amman Citadel is ideally located downtown and offers excellent views of the destination, perched on the city’s highest peak.

The Citadel is more than just a vantage point; it also houses historical attractions dating back to the Bronze Age.

Look at the two gigantic pillars on the platform – they are the remnants of the Temple of Hercules, a significant Roman edifice that formerly connected this region to the Forum. 

A few tourist-friendly areas of the complex have been rebuilt after an earthquake in the mid-800s devastated much of the complex.

A domed audience hall, the old governor’s home, the Umayyad Cistern, and the Byzantine Basilica are all visible.

This museum is an excellent place to see some of the earliest known large-scale human forms, as well as other fascinating artifacts unearthed around Jordan’s ancient Citadel.

See these beautiful remains of a place occupied by many civilizations now.

Address: K. Ali Ben Al-Hussein St. 146, Amman, Jordan

Darat al Funun

Darat al Funun (Amman), Jordan
Darat al Funun (Amman), Jordan / Jean-Pierre Dalbéra / Flickr

See amazing works of art by amazing contemporary Middle Eastern artists.

This facility features an art gallery with displays by some of Jordan’s most well-known modern painters. To top it off, the vistas are spectacular from there.

Darat al Funun, a cluster of old buildings and warehouses that were rebuilt into galleries for contemporary art and exhibited more than three decades ago, is a must-see for art aficionados. One of the earliest collections of contemporary art from the Arab world is housed at the site.

Oil paintings, photography, sculptures, multimedia works, videos, and books are among the works represented by more than 140 artists.

Darat al Funun is more than just an art center; it’s also an archeological site.

From the center’s southern grounds, you can see the ruins of a Byzantine church from the 6th century, as well as a historic cave. It’s a tranquil area to get away from the city’s hustle and bustle.

See amazing works of art and equally amazing views at Darat al Funun.

Address: Nadim Al-Mallah St 13, Amman, Jordan

Duke’s Diwan Historic Townhouse

Duke’s Diwan Historic Townhouse, Amman, Jordan
Duke’s Diwan Historic Townhouse is one of the best places to go in Amman, Jordan

Amman’s most unexpected tourist attraction.

Other Amman travel guides mention this location, but it still isn’t as popular as other places. However, you will be pleasantly delighted when you will head upstairs and find a very conventional yet well-preserved local home.

This historic mansion, built in 1924, is considered one of Amman’s oldest residences. It then became the Ministry of Finance’s headquarters and then a hotel. The townhouse is now owned by the Duke of Mukhaybeh, a local businessman.

The Duke restored it to its former glory, including antique furnishings, and then opened it to the public for viewing. Its unique, vintage atmosphere is adored by visitors.

You could even get the chance to meet the Duke in person, as I did. He was gladly getting his photos taken and was open for a chat as he sat in one of his rooms talking to other visitors.

It takes around 10 minutes to visit the Duke’s Diwan townhouse, and admission is free. The house is in the middle of downtown and is difficult to miss.

Add this to your list of must-sees when in Amman.

Address: XW2M+P8Q, King Faisal Street, Amman, Jordan

Gold Souk

Gold Souk, Amman, Jordan
Gold Souk is one of the best places to go in Amman, Jordan

Who doesn’t love gold? This location is full of it.

Amman’s Gold Souk is a network of narrow passageways located in the center of downtown Amman. This medieval souk, also known as Souq El Sangha, is the favorite domain of the city’s gold craftsmen, traders, and all those who enjoy being.

Arrive early in the day to avoid crowds and to find a good deal. Some merchants still believe in reducing the first sale of the day for good luck.

Nobody knows exactly how many shops make up the souk. Still, estimates suggest there are over a hundred in this maze-like section of town. As you stroll around the bustling souk, take in the variety and refinement of the displayed items. In their displays, intricate and exquisite bracelets, rings, and necklaces of all shapes and sizes sparkle, making it difficult to resist.

Find a local artist to create a custom piece of jewelry for you or a loved one. Making your gift more personal by having your name written in Arabic script on an existing piece of jewelry is also a common option.

One of the cheapest locations to buy gold, if you know what to look for, you may get a terrific deal here. Do your study and examine the markings on the back of the jewelry to determine the gold purity.

Strike up a bargain now for all the gold you can want.

Address: XW2M+HJV, Amman, Jordan

Hashem

Hashem (Amman), Jordan
Hashem (Amman), Jordan / Polina Fatourou / Flickr

This place is one of the best when it comes to falafels.

The question of where to get the best falafel in Amman is a contentious one. 

There are a plethora of local restaurants that serve the famed chickpea fritters, and you could easily munch your way around the city in search of your favorite falafel establishment.

Hashem’s falafel is popular among both locals and visitors. The decades-old Amman eatery is always packed, with enough patrons to keep it open all the time.

But regarding falafel eateries in Amman, Hashem is just the beginning. This little eatery in the downtown area is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. There is no menu; instead, a server will take your order and explain that everything is vegan and that each item is 1 Jordanian Dinar (JD).

Plates of chickpea balls are accompanied by fresh mint, tomato, and onion and are best served with puffy pita bread and hummus drizzled with olive oil. Drink a cup of mint tea to wash it down.

Eat some amazing food at this Jordanian staple now.

Address: King Faisal Street Amman, Ê¿Amman, Jordan

Jabal Al Lweibdeh

Jabal Al Lweibdeh, Amman, Jordan
Jabal Al Lweibdeh is one of the best places to go in Amman, Jordan

This new and trendy neighborhood is a must-see.

The Jabal Al Lweibdeh district, where Paris Square is at its heart, is a new, hip, and trendy place to visit in Amman. 

To get here, you’ll have to walk up and down a lot of stairs, as it’s located on a hill.

There are, however, dozens of new upscale coffee houses and fine dining establishments offering breathtaking vistas as a perk. From the city center, it’s a 20-minute walk upward.

Dimitri’s Coffee Lweibdeh is a favorite coffee shop. These people are knowledgeable about specialty coffee.

Also, just around the block is Oliva, a tiny but excellent Italian restaurant, and across the street from Dimitri’s Coffee.

Lastly, when it comes to drinking, there are numerous chic cafés and pubs in Lweibdeh, although Dali attracts a slightly more refined audience.

See lots of fun and hip shops now when you visit Jabal Al Lweibdeh.

Address: Jabal Al Lweibdeh, Amman, Jordan

Jordan Museum

Jordan Museum (Amman), Jordan
Jordan Museum (Amman), Jordan / Jean-Pierre Dalbéra / Flickr

See fascinating exhibits at this National Museum.

A visit to Amman would be incomplete without carefully examining the Jordan Museum’s fascinating exhibits.

The collection of this world-class institution, housed in a modern structure close to City Hall, highlights Jordanian culture and history, beginning with the country’s oldest known inhabitants.

Jordanian history and culture are on display at this world-class museum in a contemporary building near the city hall.

The collection begins with artifacts from Jordan’s first known residents.

Moreover, the Modern Jordan Wing chronicles Jordan’s history from the Great Arab Renaissance to the kingdom’s establishment and on to the present day.

The Archaeological and Historical Gallery, the Jordan Museum’s largest exhibit, features an extraordinary assortment of valuable items and large-scale reconstructions of ancient places like the Ayla Gate.

Overall, there is no other place in Amman wherein tourists may obtain such a close-up view of Jordan’s history.

Visit this interesting museum now to see unique exhibits.

Address: Ali binØŒ Abu Taleb St., Amman, Jordan

Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts (Amman), Jordan
Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts (Amman), Jordan / David Stanley / Flickr

This national gallery is a definite must-see for art lovers.

Jordan is a hub for culture and the arts. In that case, a must-see for anybody interested in Middle Eastern art is The Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts.

It is a modest but strong museum that displays works from all over the world, with a particular concentration on Jordan and the nearby areas.

In addition to paintings, multimedia displays, photography, tapestry, and sculpture, there are more than 3,000 pieces in the permanent collection by well-known and local artists from more than 70 countries.

Aside from gorgeous art displays, the popular museum hosts a variety of events, such as talks and workshops that educate visitors on how to make their masterpieces and showcase artists’ methods.

This modest museum includes a nice collection of 2,800 paintings, sculptures, and photographs by artists from 60 nations, albeit the majority are Jordanian.

Workshops, seminars, and other cultural activities are held on a regular basis.

Check the calendar for upcoming events, and make plans to attend now!

Address:  XW58+53Q, Amman, Jordan

King Abdullah Mosque 

King Abdullah Mosque (Amman), Jordan
King Abdullah Mosque (Amman), Jordan / Rob Oo / Flickr

You should definitely add this beautiful blue-domed mosque to your Amman itinerary.

The instantly recognizable King Abdullah Mosque, with its spectacular blue dome towering over Amman’s low-rise roofs, is an attraction you don’t want to miss.

Also, the mosque is a short distance from downtown Amman and close to the current new Amman center.

In fact, the late King Hussein finished the King Abdullah Mosque in 1989 as a tribute to his grandfather.

Moreover, it is Amman’s most famous and largest mosque that caters to a capacity of up to 10,000 people.

A tiny part that can hold up to 500 women is available. Women must cover their heads before entering the mosque; headdresses are offered at the entrance.

You’ll need to cover your arms, legs, chest, and back with modest attire. Abayas are also available. Before entering, all visitors must remove their shoes. 

This mosque is undoubtedly an icon of the city, so don’t forget to check it out.

Address: XW67+F4H, Amman, Jordan

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Madaba

Madaba (Amman), Jordan
Madaba (Amman), Jordan / Jon Gudorf Photography / Flickr

Take a day trip to this lovely city with lots to see.

Madaba, a pleasant market town, is well known for its collection of Byzantine mosaics. The map on the floor of St. George’s Church is the most famous, although there are many others throughout the city, some of which are even more detailed and vibrantly colored.

Madaba is home to one of Jordan’s most populous Christian communities. On Fridays, when imams (religious teachers) invite the devout to pray before dawn and bells call Orthodox Christians to rise at first light, the town’s long legacy of religious tolerance is glad – and loudly – proclaimed.

The famous 6th-century mosaic map of the Promised Land is the best item to see in this historical city that is mentioned multiple times in the Bible. Madaba is a mostly Christian city with numerous Catholic, Greek Orthodox, and Byzantine churches to explore.

The town is still one of Jordan’s most tourist-friendly, and it’s a good option for seeing the King’s Highway and Dead Sea attractions. You may travel directly from Queen Alia International Airport in roughly 20 minutes via taxi.

Plan a trip to Amman now, and make sure to check out Madaba too.

Address: Madaba, Jordan

Nabad Gallery, Amman, Jordan
Nabad Gallery is one of the best places to go in Amman, Jordan

Jordan is definitely a cultural hub for arts, and this gallery is another reason why.

Since 2008, Nabad, a contemporary art gallery in Amman, Jordan, has been exhibiting and providing artwork by Jordanian emerging and recognized artists. In addition to promoting Jordanian art, Nabad presents several artists from around the Arab world and beyond to foster intercultural conversation among artists and the general public.

Nabad can offer some art classes by professionals in painting and drawing for all ages and abilities to complement its fine art program. Nabad hosts and organizes cultural events such as talks and book signings regularly.

The Gallery is located in a refurbished 1930s home in Jabal Amman, a historic district that is quickly becoming Amman’s cultural center. Through a series of annual exhibitions of works by exceptional art students and recent graduates, Nabad also promotes the work of new potential artists.

It has access to a vast inventory of artworks, including paintings, limited-edition prints, photographic works, and sculptures by local and regional artists.

Nabad, as a fine art hub, provides comprehensive consulting services to private and institutional collectors, assisting with documentation, installation, placement, and artwork selection.

Address: Nabad Art Gallery, Othman Bin Affan St 46, Amman, Jordan

Nymphaeum

Nymphaeum (Amman), Jordan
Nymphaeum (Amman), Jordan / Amanda / Flickr

Another one of Amman’s historical must-see structures.

The Nymphaeum, or the great public fountain of old Philadelphia (as Amman was known in Hellenistic and Roman times), dates from the late second century AD. The Roman Theater and Odeon are only a short walk away. 

Nymphaea was constructed atop caves with gushing water that were thought to be sacred to mythical nymphs. They were public gathering places and considered a symbol of a city’s wealth.

The Roman urban layout divided Philadelphia into two sections: an upper section with the great Roman Temple of Hercules and a lower section with two colonnaded streets (Cardo and Decumanus) running down the city’s primary two valleys. The Nymphaeum was situated near the intersection of the Cardo and the Decumanus.

The Amman Nymphaeum is a half-octagonal symmetrical structure with a restored length of 68 meters and a colossal structure that used to be beautifully adorned with sculptures, mosaics, and statues. The foundation is built on barrel vaults in the lower level. 

The second level was divided into three enormous apses, each with two rows of holes for sculptures. The apses are around 12 m tall, with a gallery in front of them with Corinthian order columns. The apses were terminated in semi-domes, which most likely collapsed during one of the 7th century AD earthquakes.

Visit the remains of this beautiful ancient fountain now.

Address:  XW2P+4C5, شارع الهاشمي, Amman, Jordan

Qasr al-Abed

Qasr al-Abed, Amman, Jordan
Qasr al-Abed is one of the best places to go in Amman, Jordan

See the ruins of a stunning ancient Hellenistic palace at this location.

Qasr Al-Abed, an unassuming yet extraordinary edifice west of Amman, is among Jordan’s few remaining pre-Roman ruins.

Everything in the palace is steeped in secrecy, including its origins.

However, most researchers believe that Hyrcanus, a rich member of the Tobiad dynasty, built the villa or defended the castle around 187 and 175 BC.

Though the palace was never finished, most of it has been restored and is still an amazing sight.

Moreover, the sculptures of animals and landscapes on the outside walls are now the most popular features.

On the bottom floor, look for the carved panther fountain, eroding eagles on the corners, and a lioness with cubs on the upper story on the backside. 

Overall, private transportation is recommended when visiting Qasr Al-Abed.

The Qasr al-Abed is a sight to behold, don’t miss out on checking this place out.

Address: WQ72+4QW, Amman, Jordan

Rainbow Street

Rainbow Street (Amman), Jordan
Rainbow Street (Amman), Jordan / Franzium / Flickr

In Amman, Rainbow Street is the place to be and be seen. 

The famed road, which is located in Jabal Amman’s old neighborhood, provides a calm space for pedestrians to escape Amman’s turbulent traffic and explore a part of the capital on foot.

Rainbow Street is busiest on Thursday nights when Jordanians formally start their weekend, but there’s enough to do on any afternoon of the week on this tourist-friendly boulevard. Drink a cup of tea at one of the charming cafés that line Rainbow Street, such as Turtle Green Tea Bar or Jara Cafe, to boost your energy.

Alternatively, treat yourself to a great meal at Al Quds, which serves delectable meats marinated in yogurt sauce. Keep an eye out for Gerard Ice Cream’s dessert.

Then go shopping on Rainbow Street for some treasures to take home. At Souk Jara, a flea market that pops up on one of Rainbow’s side streets on Friday nights, you can watch craftsmen manufacture handicrafts and browse for unique items.

The Wild Jordan Center, just a few blocks off Rainbow Street, sells locally crafted jewelry, trinkets, soaps, mugs, and other gifts. Profits from the ethically conscious store are used to support local artisans and conservation efforts in Jordan.

Eat great food and meet great people here at Rainbow Street now.

Address: Rainbow St., Amman, Jordan

Roman Automobile Museum

Roman Automobile Museum (Amman), Jordan
Roman Automobile Museum (Amman), Jordan / Dan Merino / Flickr

This is a place any car lover will love.

You’ll have a great time at the Royal Automobile Museum in Amman’s northern suburbs, whether you’re a die-hard vehicle aficionado or a road trip enthusiast.

The museum, which opened in 2003, houses former Jordanian King Hussein bin Talal’s unusual collection of cars and other vehicles from throughout the world.

King Hussein was both a dashing personality and a car enthusiast, and his large private collection of the world’s finest vintage automobiles is a fitting legacy.

Even if you have no interest in driving, a museum dedicated to royal cars may not be an easy sell to foreign visitors, but this well-presented museum provides an intriguing viewpoint on the evolution of contemporary Jordan. 

A flawless 1952 Aston Martin, a slew of vintage motorcycles in every hue of the rainbow, a Porsche Carrera GT, a Bugatti Veyron, a World War I-era armored Rolls Royce, and an experimental motorcycle from 1885 are among the collection’s highlights. The Mars rover from the 2015 film The Martian, which was filmed in Wadi Rum, is also on display outside the museum.

See all the unique automobiles now at the Royal Automobile Museum now.

Address: XRMG+4GQ, At Tibbiyya, عمّان, Jordan

Roman Theater

Roman Theater (Amman), Jordan
Roman Theater (Amman), Jordan / Francisco Anzola / Flickr

Climb the steps that kings of the ancient past have.

Swinging by the Roman Theater is high on the list of things to do in Amman, and for a good reason. 

The ancient attraction elegantly integrates Jordanian history with the colorful modern-day activity of the city.

The rebuilt Roman Theater, a 20-minute walk from the Amman Citadel, gives visitors a better idea of what Amman was like when it was known as “Philadelphia” approximately 2,000 years ago. 

A set of steep, sloping steps can accommodate up to 6,000 people in this architectural marvel. Surprisingly, the amphitheater was designed to face north to provide some shade for its audience. Arrive early in the day for the greatest photo opportunities.

Summer concerts and plays are held at the Roman Theater, which is one of Amman’s most important cultural venues. It also houses two fascinating museums: the Jordan Museum of Popular Traditions as well as the Jordan Folklore Museum, both of which include impressive costume collections.

Sit and enjoy the feeling of being in Ancient Jordan when you visit these steps today.

Address: Taha Al-Hashemi St., Amman, Jordan

Royal Tank Museum 

Royal Tank Museum, Amman, Jordan
Royal Tank Museum is one of the best places to go in Amman, Jordan

This museum is a sure must-visit for military enthusiasts.

The Royal Tank Museum, one of Amman’s newest tourist destinations, is the Middle East’s first institution dedicated to (you got it!) military tanks. 

Over 140 tanks, including an M4 Sherman and a Soviet-era T-34, are on display in the 20,000-square-meter exhibit hall, many of which were used in real wars. 

Hundreds of light and heavy military items are on show at the museum, which delves into Jordan’s military history.

The Jordanian King opened the Royal Tank Museum in February 2018. Jordan’s King Abdullah II is an Oxford, Sandhurst, and Georgetown University graduate alumni.

He served in the British Army after graduating from Sandhurst before returning to a position in the Jordan Military. King Abdullah is a staunch supporter of his military and a well-known collector of old weapons and armor.

Be sure to check out these battle relics now at the Royal Tank Museum.

Address: Royal Tank Museum, Amman, Jordan

Souk El-Khodra 

Souk El-Khodra, Amman, Jordan
Souk El-Khodra is one of the best places to go in Amman, Jordan

There are local eats and cheap buys at this market.

Souk el-Khodra is a fresh produce market in Amman that has some of the greatest veggies and fruit. The fact that much of the produce is local, seasonal, and affordable is what makes the Souk el-Khodra so enticing.

The market stalls are brimming with vibrantly colored, fresh fruits and veggies, and they’re a terrific spot to get a quick bite or sample some local fare. The vibrant smell, a few samples, and interesting exchanges with the friendly and kind vendors await visitors to Amman’s market.

This market is different from the other ones because this is where locals buy their daily fruits, veggies, nuts, meat, spices, and other necessities.

Get lost in the small backstreets behind the Grand Husseini Mosque, which is another must-see attraction in Amman.

The market vendors are really pleasant, and several of them will urge you to taste their products or take photographs without pressuring you to buy anything.

Visit this market now to see all the great things it has to offer.

Address: Souk el-Khodra, Amman, Jordan

Wild Jordan Center

Wild Jordan Center (Amman), Jordan
Wild Jordan Center (Amman), Jordan / Dan Merino / Flickr

There’s so much to see and do at the Wild Jordan Center.

The Wild Jordan Center is much more than this fascinating venture, as it runs as a boutique hotel with contemporary and modern lodging options, as well as a range of restaurants, cafes, catering services, and event spaces. 

In fact, The Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature is one owns the Wild Jordan Center. It promotes eco-tourism while maintaining the natural environment and linking tourists with locals who may create unique experiences in Jordan’s surrounding nature reserves.

The ATICO Fakhreldin Group, which proudly performs multi-service hospitality management in the region and has a great reputation in the business, is in charge of the entire project.

The meaningful seminars performed on the grounds to promote socio-economic development for the local populations on the reserves are another essential element of the Wild Jordan Center.

 These year-round interactive programs create a comprehensive awareness of sustainable practices and environmental protection. The workshops generate high-quality handcrafted items that can be purchased at the Wild Jordan Center.

See beautiful views of old Amman when you visit the Wild Jordan Center now.

Still unsure to make Amman Jordan your next destination? Check out reasons to visit Amman, Jordan, at least once in your lifetime here.

Address: Othman Ben Affan St., Amman, Jordan

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