What to Do in Amman in One Day: The Best Things to Do in Amman Itinerary
Are you wondering what to do in Amman in one day? Fab, this article is for you!
In this Amman itinerary, I’ll be covering all the best parts of the Jordanian capital. With just one day in Amman, you’ll be able to see the highlights including the Citadel, Old Town and two Amphitheatres, plus loads more.
During my trip to Amman, I started and finished in the Jordanian capital. Although there’s quite a bit to see here, I’m going to share with you all the best things to see in Amman in a day and how to do it.
So let’s take a look at what to see in Amman. Let’s go!
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What Do Do in Amman in One Day
On first impressions Amman is hectic. It’s a far cry from the ‘civilized’ grid-like system in most modern cities.
The dust-coloured ancient city sprawls over the surrounding steep and rocky hillsides, even the newest buildings are covered in a fine layer of beige dust. Because of the terrain, the streets zig-zag all over the place and are linked by steep staircases cutting off corners for pedestrians.
Despite its slightly run-down appearance, Amman has an endearing side to it and when you get under the dusty facade, you’ll discover there are loads of things to do in Amman, Jordan.
What to See in Amman
- Roman Amphitheatre
- Odeon Amphitheatre
- Nymphonium
- The Citadel
- Grand Husseini Mosque
- Old Town and Souks
- Eas traditional Jordanian Mezze
Amman One Day Itinerary – Day Break Down
Here’s an overview of how this Amman 1 day itinerary pans out. With a day in Amman, you’ll be able to see the highlights of the city. This guide covers all of the best things to do in Amman in the shortest space of time.
Morning: Get breakfast at Rainbow Street before visiting The Grand Husseini Mosque, The Nymphonium, the Roman Amphitheatre and the Odeon Amphitheatre
Afternoon: Explore The Old Town Shops & Souks before heading to The Citadel
Evening: Eat traditional Jordanian Mezze and then watch the sunset from a trendy rooftop bar.
Amman Itinerary – Know Before You Go
Whether you’re passing through and only have one day in Jordan, or you’re stopping in Amman for a day before onward travel in Jordan, this section has useful information to help you plan your trip.
Getting to Amman
Most people arrive in Jordan, in the nation’s capital of Amman.
The main airport for Jordan is the Queen Alia International Airport, (AMM) just outside of the city. It takes about 45 minutes to get to most hotels in the centre.
Book your airport transfer directly to your hotel in advance. This saves you both the hassle and avoids the hefty inflated fees from the taxi firms at the airport.
Getting Around Amman
Although Amman is a fascinating city to explore, just a heads up – the terrain can get pretty hilly, which might make exploring by foot challenging for some.
I totally get it, though—I love discovering new places on foot too, and although this is always my preference, I do suggest hopping into a taxi between Amman’s highlights.
Best Tours of Amman
You can experience Amman’s top attractions on this private tour, including the impressive King Abdullah Mosque, Citadel ruins with the Archaeological Museum, and the Roman Amphitheater with the Museum of Popular Traditions. You can also opt for extras like Arabic Mezze, Turkish Bath, or additional museum tours.
Is Amman Safe?
During my stay in Jordan, I felt just as safe as I would at home. I dressed a little more conservatively than I would usually do on holiday, but it stopped any unwanted attention.
It’s no secret that every country has crime so most importantly use your common sense, be aware of your surroundings and don’t flash expensive items about.
The people in Jordan, on the whole, were very friendly and mostly wanted to offer cups of tea every time you went into their shop, or if you were waiting about for a bus. I was a bit dubious at first (drink-spiking came to mind) but after I saw them also drinking from the same teapot, I eased up. By the way, their warm and sweet sage tea is delicious! this is mostly what you’ll get offered.
If you’re out and about for a whole day and need to carry stuff, it’s worthwhile using an anti-theft backpack to keep everything safe.
Finally, regarding safety, you can not drink tap water in Jordan, so instead of buying a fresh bottle of water every time you need a drink, don’t forget to take your water purification filter bottle with you.
Read Also: What To Wear In Jordan
Where to Stay in Amman
There’s an abundance of accommodation choices for every budget in Amman. If you’re looking for budget accommodation in Amman, then check out some of the hostels near Rainbow Street. For luxury abodes, you’ll find them a short taxi drive away.
Boutique Accommodation in Amman – The St. Regis Hotel
If you’re looking for luxury accommodation, the St. Regis it’s sure to tick all your boxes. There isn’t much this hotel doesn’t offer. The swimming pool, rooftop views, rolling staircase and foyer alone sold this to me (I’m not kidding, go take a look). It’s clear to see how this is listed as one of the top 5-star rated hotels in Amman.
Budget Accommodation in Amman – Nomads Hotel and Hostel
Filled with quirky artwork, Nomads Hotel and Hostel has a chilled vibe with a rooftop view. It’s got amazing hot showers, decent facilitates (the breakfasts are delicious!) and top-notch super friendly and helpful staff. It’’s just off Rainbow Street so close to some of the best street food in the city. I initially booked just a single night but ended up staying 4 nights here because I loved it so much.
A Brief History of Amman
- Historically, Amman dates back to Neolithic times (8500 BC), since then the City has had different names. First, Rabbath Ammon (in the 13th Century BC) and then it was called Philadelphia (in 280BC), after Ptolemy II Philadelphus.
- Amman boasts some pretty awesome Roman ruins including a Citadel and two Amphitheatres.
- The City of Amman has now grown to spread over 19 hills!
- In the past, Amman has been ruled by the Assyrians, Persians, Greeks, Egyptians and Romans.
- Thankfully, Amman is one of the most liberal cities in the Middle East so there are no strict rules on what women can and can’t wear and where they can go etc. Although Jordan is a relatively liberal country, I’ve written a handy guide on what to wear (and not wear) when you visit Jordan – it’s even got a downloadable packing list.
Read Next: The Best Jordan 10 Day Itinerary
What to See in Amman in One Day
Although this article is written as a 1 day in Amman itinerary, this Amman city tour can easily be split into a more leisurely 2-day itinerary. There’s an abundance of places to visit in Amman. I’ve also included a section at the end about some easy day trips from Amman.
Just remember, before you set out to make sure you’re wearing a comfortable pair of walking shoes. The hilly terrain acts a bit like an urban workout, your calves will know about it the next day.
Want the easy option to see all the highlights of Amman? then why not book a private tour for the day to see the best bits of Amman the easy way?
Prebook now: Amman Private Sightseeing Tour
Amman in One Day – Morning
Get breakfast at Rainbow Street before visiting The Grand Husseini Mosque, The Nymphonium, the Roman Amphitheatre and the Odeon Amphitheatre.
Rainbow Street
Start the day with breakfast or a coffee at one of the many cafes along the super cutely named ‘Rainbow Street’ and ‘Mango Street‘. Deceptively named, Rainbow Street is no more colourful than anywhere else in Amman, it’s still dust-coloured!
The actual names of these streets are Abu Bakr al Siddiq Street (Rainbow Steet) which gets its name from the cinema which is located along here, and Omar bin al-Khattab Street (Mango Street), named after brothers Kamal and Ali Mango, who designed and built the stunning Mango House on this street.
This district of Amman is called Jabal Amman and used to be where the wealthier Jordanians lived – just check out some of the stunning villas around this neighbourhood.
Recently, it has had a bit of a revival and it’s super hipster.
Rainbow Street is where you’ll find a real mix of tourists and locals, along with a range of restaurants from hole-in-the-wall style right through to high-end, shops specialising in sweet treats, cafes, boutique homewares, bookstores and hipster hangouts.
At some point during your stay in Jordan, be sure to try out a traditional Jordanian breakfast in Amman.
You’ll find Rainbow Street, on the whole, is relatively flat once you are on it. From here head down the hill into the old town.
The Grand Husseini Mosque
Meander your way down through the streets and steps to your first stop, The Grand Husseini Mosque.
This is one of the oldest and biggest mosques in the area. The Mosque that you will see was built in 1932 and is built on top of the site of a much older Mosque dating to about 640 AD.
From the Mosque, head north-east along King Talal Street and towards The Nymphonium.
The Nymphonium
The first of the ruins you’ll see on this Amman itinerary is The Nymphonium, which is used to supply water to the city.
The Nymphonium in Amman is quite a small site with a handful of boards. There’s not much left of it, but historically this is where the water back in Roman times came from.
If you want to see a better example of a Roman Nymphonium while you are in Jordan, then visit the ruins of Jerash, the one there is stunning in comparison.
From the Nymphonium, head north-east along Quraysh Street towards the Amphitheatre.
Related Article: How to Visit Jerash Ruins From Amman
The Roman Theatre of Amman
Amman has two Amphitheatres; one is called The Roman Theatre and the other is called The Odeon Theatre. Both are top things to see in Jordan.
The Roman Theatre is the larger of the two, which could hold at least 6000 people! Visiting them is one of the top things to do in Amman.
Visit The Roman Theatre first, there’s a small entry fee from a little ticket office. The ticket gives you entry to the two small and somewhat dated on-site museums as well as The Odeon Theatre.
The Roman Theatre is half-built into the hillside, so it’s a semi-circle shape rather than circular like the famous Colosseum in Rome. Spend some time here climbing up and down the steps. At the top, you’ll have a decent vantage point to photograph the surrounding area.
The Amphitheatre is situated in a natural bowl, so you’ll get a decent panoramic shot of Amman from the surrounding hillsides, you’ll even be able to see the columns from The Temple of Hercules at The Citadel in the distance.
Odeon Theatre
Head over to the smaller Odeon Theatre. It’s a fraction of the size but superbly renovated and much quieter than its bigger sister you’ve just visited. The Odeon Theatre is certainly a more tranquil place to sit in the warm sun.
From here, see if you can spot the columns from the Temple of Hercules. Hint; they are on the top of the hill on the left-hand side – you can see the arch and two smaller columns.
Amman in One Day – Afternoon
Explore The Old Town Shops & Souqs before heading to The Citadel.
Old Town Amman
Before heading up to The Citadel, spend some time wandering about Old Town Amman, this area is known as Al Balad.
Here you’ll find little shops selling all sorts of food, drinks, trinkets and daily goods. It’s a great insight into the lives of the Jordanians as well as a great place to pick up a snack or lunch before heading up to the Citadel.
The main streets you’ll want to wander about are Al-Salt, Al-Hashemi, Basman, Prince Mohammad, King Talal and Quraysh. Some of the better-known souks in the area are the Souq Al-Sukar which specialises in food. Here you’ll find loads of spices, nuts, fruit and vegetables. If you’re after a spot of souvenir shopping, then head towards the Souq Bukharia.
The Citadel
When you’re done wandering around Old Town Amman, head up to the Citadel. If you’re feeling energetic it’s walkable, if you’re not up for the challenge, then get a taxi.
If you’re walking up, head back to the square outside of the Roman Theatre. Nearly opposite and on the opposite side of the road there is a flight of stairs leading up the hill. The stairs eventually lead out to the road that takes you straight to The Citadel.
As you are walking up don’t forget to turn around and look back down on the Amphitheatres from above; another decent panoramic photo opportunity.
Along with the Roman Theatre, visiting the Citadel is probably one of the best things to do in Amman, and no Amman itinerary would be complete without a visit to the 1800BC archaeological site.
Being a Citadel, naturally, it’s going to be situated at the highest point in the city. So, a word to the wise, you’ll need a jacket up here if it’s a breezy day. Likewise, when the glorious sunshine comes out, it’s quite hot.
You’d be hard-pushed to miss the iconic hand poking out of the ground at The Temple of Hercules.
The Citadel is situated on 850m high Jebel Al Qala’a hill. It’s pretty exposed on top and there isn’t much form of natural shelter either so if it’s sunny you’ll certainly need sunblock and sunglasses. But being so high does allow you to get some great shots looking down over Amman.
To fully explore the site you’ll want at least a couple of hours. Some of the highlights of The Citadel are The Temple of Hercules, The Umayyad Palace and the Byzantine Church. The onsite museum also has some cool stuff inside.
The iconic columns and podium from the Temple of Hercules are visible from most places in Amman, don’t miss seeing the giant hand half-buried in the ground.
When you are done at The Citadel, head back towards Rainbow Street to get a well-deserved Turkish Coffee and a bite to eat.
To walk from The Citadel to Rainbow Street it’s a mix of downhill and uphill – it took me less than 30 minutes. Alternatively, if you don’t fancy the ‘Urban Gym’ then grab a taxi again.
Read Next: Self-Guided Two Days in Petra, Jordan
Amman in One Day – Evening
Eat traditional Jordanian Mezze and then watch the sunset from a trendy rooftop bar.
Eat Authentic Jordanian Mezze
Head back towards Jabal Amman, to Rainbow Street and Mango Street to try a delicious and authentic Jordanian Mezze. Hummus is one of my favourite things, so I was in heaven when I was served what felt like a bucket of it.
There are loads of places to eat traditional Jordanian food, but I highly recommend Shams El Balad, along Mu’Ath Bin Jabal Street. I came back here three times during my stay in Amman and everything I ate was mouthwateringly delicious.
The restaurant is set in a pretty villa with tables and seating inside a large greenhouse with an outside terrace. There are two entrances, one is through their boutique shop and deli, and the other is through the front of the house.
Rooftop Bars
To finish off your 1 day in Amman perfectly, head to one of the nearby trendy rooftop bars in Jabal Amman to enjoy the sunset and watch the city of Amman light up at night.
There are plenty of rooftop bars to choose from but two that get my vote are Sekrab, which means ‘junk’ in Arabic. The decor of this trendy bar is made from upcycled items like old car parts, vintage signs etc.
Alternatively, if you’re after something a bit sleeker, then I recommend Veer Resto-Lounge which is set in a beautiful 1920s villa and still has lots of its original charm.
Easy Day Trips From Amman
If you have longer than one day in Amman, then why not check out some of these great day trips to add to your Amman itinerary?
- Jerash is a huge archaeological ruin site and less than an hour’s drive north of Amman. It’s been dubbed ‘Pompeii of the East’ for good reason. Not only will you find a well-preserved Nymphonium, but there are also cobbled collonaded streets, the giant oval of columns, several temples, two amphitheatres and more. It’s certainly worth a visit if you have time.
- Petra is Jordan’s most iconic landmark and because of this, it can get busy. Make the most of the stunning UNESCO site on a full-day private tour of Petra with pick up and return from Amman.
- Take a full-day excursion from Amman and explore Mt Nebo and Madaba and relax in the Dead Sea.
Things to Do in Amman, Jordan In One Day – FAQs
Now you know what to see in Amman in a day, this section includes answers to any questions you might have about your trip.
Is Amman Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Amman is a must-visit! It’s got an incredible blend of history, culture, and beautiful landmarks like the Citadel and Roman Amphitheater. Also, exploring the vibrant souks and savouring the mouthwatering Middle Eastern cuisine makes this a destination you won’t want to miss. It’s also a great city to plan excursions to Petra, Dead Sea and glamping in Wadi Rum from.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Amman?
The best time to visit Amman is during the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) months. The weather is mild, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Avoid the hot summers and cold winters to enjoy the city’s attractions comfortably.
What to Do in Amman in One Day?
In one day in Amman, I suggest the main highlights of the city. Start by exploring the historic Citadel and Roman Amphitheater. Stroll through the bustling downtown area and visit the Jordan Museum for an overview of the country’s history. Then enjoy local cuisine at Rainbow Street and experience the vibrant culture in the city’s souks.
One Day in Amman Enough?
Spending just one day in Amman is a bit rushed, but you’ll be able to see the main highlights. You might not cover everything, but with some smart planning and hitting the top attractions, you’ll definitely make the most of your brief time in the city.
What’s the Best Way to Get Around Amman?
The best way to get around Amman is by foot, and hop in taxis to skip the hills – they are convenient and readily available. However, be prepared for some traffic congestion during peak hours.
For shorter distances, walking is enjoyable, but keep in mind the city’s hilly terrain.
What Should I Wear in Jordan?
You should dress modestly. Jordan is a Muslim country, so it’s important to respect the local customs and culture.
For men, light and loose-fitting clothes are ideal, while women should wear clothing that covers their shoulders, arms, and knees. In religious sites, you might want to have a scarf to cover your hair – although this isn’t a requirement.
Also, don’t forget to bring comfortable walking shoes for all the exploring you’ll be doing!
Is Amman Safe?
Yes! Amman is generally considered safe for travellers. It has a low crime rate and is known for its welcoming and friendly locals. Being overcharged for taxis is the main issue here.
However, like any other city, it’s essential to exercise caution, be aware of your surroundings, and follow common sense by keeping valuables somewhere secure, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots.
How’s Your One Day in Amman Shaping Up?
So, is your one day in Amman shaping up to be an exciting trip?
From exploring historic landmarks like the Citadel and Roman Amphitheater to immersing yourself in the vibrant souks and savouring local delicacies, in just one day, you’ll get to experience the essence of this ancient city.
Pack your bags and enjoy every moment of your Amman itinerary!
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