Amman, the capital city of Jordan, is a fascinating blend of ancient history and modern dynamics. Nestled on hills between the desert and the fertile Jordan Valley, it is often the first stop for travelers eager to explore this historic country. If you’re planning to visit, here’s a comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Amman, ensuring a memorable experience.
## Historical and Cultural Sites
### 1. The Citadel
Perched on the highest hill in Amman, Jebel Al Qala’a offers not only panoramic views of the sprawling city but also houses significant ruins dating back to the Bronze Age. Key highlights include the Temple of Hercules, Umayyad Palace complex, and a Byzantine church. The Citadel also houses the Jordan Archaeological Museum which displays artifacts from various archaeological sites across Jordan.
### 2. Roman Theatre
A marvel from the Roman era, this 6,000-seat theatre carved into a hillside dates back to the 2nd century AD. Located in downtown Amman, it’s incredibly well-preserved and still used for performances today. Visiting this site offers a window into Roman architectural ingenuity.
### 3. King Abdullah Mosque
Open to non-Muslim visitors (except during prayer times), King Abdullah Mosque is notable for its stunning blue dome and beautiful interior decoration. It’s one of the few mosques in Amman that allows tourist visits, offering insights into Islamic culture and architecture.
### 4. The Jordan Museum
To truly understand Jordan’s rich history and diverse cultures through ages—from prehistoric times to contemporary art—spend some time at The Jordan Museum located in Ras Al-Ain area of Amman. Highlights include some Dead Sea Scrolls, traditional costumes, and statues from various archaeological sites.
## Culinary Experiences
### 5. Rainbow Street
For those looking to dive into local cuisine or just enjoy a vibrant street scene, Rainbow Street is ideal. This historic avenue is lined with cafes, restaurants serving traditional Middle Eastern dishes like falafel and mansaf (a traditional Bedouin dish of lamb cooked in fermented dried yogurt sauce), as well as handicraft shops that offer everything from jewelry to antiques.
### 6. Hashem Restaurant
Located in downtown Amman near Al-Hussein Mosque,this eatery is legendary among locals and tourists alike for its falafel sandwiches along with other traditional staples like hummus and foul mudammas (fava bean dip).
## Shopping and Leisure
### 7. Souk Jara
During summer months (from May until September), Souk Jara is a Friday market that springs up alongside Rainbow Street where vendors sell artisan crafts, antiques, clothes while musicians play around you—a perfect amalgamation of local culture.
### 8. Abdali Boulevard
For those who prefer more upscale shopping or dining experience amid modern surroundings—the Abdali Boulevard area features high-end shops within its new urbanist precinct known as “The Boulevard”.
## Relaxation Spots
### 9. Hammamat Ma’in
While technically outside Amman city limits (about an hour drive), visiting Hammamat Ma’in hot springs can be an invigorating day trip from Amman owing to its therapeutic waters heated naturally by geothermal activity.
## Day Trips from Amman
### 10 . Jerash
Don’t miss out on an excursion to Jerash located about an hour north from central Amman—it boasts incredibly well-preserved ruins of a Greco-Roman city including colonnaded streets , temples , theatres ,and plazas making it one of best examples Greco-Roman provincial town design .
With these top attractions listed above , your visit to Amman will not only be enjoyable but also deeply enriching . Whether you’re exploring its historical landmarks or indulging in local flavors at bustling markets; there’s something truly captivating about this city that combines elements both old & new seamlessly . Enjoy your journey into heartland Middle Eastern culture & history !