Amman-tastic Adventures: Top 10 Unforgettable Experiences in Jordan’s Capital!
Greetings, fellow travelers! Journeying Jack here, back with another exciting edition of Suitcase Stories. Today, I’m thrilled to share with you my latest adventure in the captivating city of Amman, Jordan. As I explored this ancient metropolis, I discovered a treasure trove of experiences that I simply couldn’t keep to myself. So, without further ado, I present to you my “Top 10 Things to Do Amman” list!
From historical sites to mouthwatering cuisine, Amman has something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just looking for a unique getaway, my “Top 10 Things to Do Amman” guide will help you make the most of your time in this enchanting city. So, strap on your walking shoes and join me as we embark on a journey through the top 10 things to do Amman!
Discover Amman’s Rich History
Amman, the capital city of Jordan, is a city steeped in history. From ancient ruins to modern-day museums, there are plenty of ways to discover the rich history of Amman. Here are the top 10 things to do in Amman to explore its fascinating past:
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Visit the Citadel: The Citadel is a must-visit attraction in Amman. It is home to the Temple of Hercules, the Umayyad Palace, and the Byzantine Church. The Citadel offers stunning views of the city and is a great place to learn about Amman’s history.
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Explore the Roman Theatre: The Roman Theatre is one of the most impressive ancient ruins in Amman. It was built in the 2nd century AD and could seat up to 6,000 people. Today, it is still used for cultural events and performances.
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Discover the Jordan Museum: The Jordan Museum is a modern museum that showcases the history and culture of Jordan. It has a collection of artifacts that date back to prehistoric times and offers a fascinating insight into the country’s past.
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Wander through the Rainbow Street: Rainbow Street is a vibrant and colorful street in Amman that is lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops. It is a great place to soak up the local culture and history.
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Visit the Royal Automobile Museum: The Royal Automobile Museum is a unique museum that showcases the history of the Jordanian royal family through their collection of cars. It is a must-visit attraction for car enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
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Explore the Jordan Archaeological Museum: The Jordan Archaeological Museum is home to a vast collection of artifacts from different periods of Jordan’s history. It is a great place to learn about the country’s rich cultural heritage.
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Visit the Abu Darweesh Mosque: The Abu Darweesh Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Amman. It was built in the 14th century and is a beautiful example of Islamic architecture.
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Explore the Amman Citadel Museum: The Amman Citadel Museum is located within the Citadel and showcases the history of Amman from prehistoric times to the present day. It is a great place to learn about the city’s rich history.
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Visit the Jordan Folklore Museum: The Jordan Folklore Museum is a small museum that showcases the traditional costumes, jewelry, and handicrafts of Jordan. It is a great place to learn about the country’s cultural heritage.
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Take a walking tour of the city: A walking tour of Amman is a great way to explore the city’s rich history. There are many tour companies that offer guided tours of the city, or you can explore on your own and discover the hidden gems of Amman.
In conclusion, Amman is a city with a rich history and culture. From ancient ruins to modern-day museums, there are plenty of ways to discover the fascinating past of this vibrant city. These top 10 things to do in Amman will give you a great insight into the city’s history and culture. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore this amazing city!
Savor the Flavors of Local Cuisine
When in Amman, one of the top 10 things to do is to indulge in the local cuisine. Jordanian food is a blend of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors, making it a unique and delicious experience for foodies.
1. Try Mansaf
Mansaf is the national dish of Jordan and a must-try when visiting Amman. It consists of lamb cooked in a yogurt sauce and served with rice and flatbread. You can find this dish in most local restaurants and it’s a great way to experience the local culture.
2. Visit Hashem Restaurant
Hashem Restaurant is a popular spot among locals and tourists alike. It’s known for its delicious falafel, hummus, and other Middle Eastern dishes. The restaurant has been around for over 50 years and is a must-visit when in Amman.
3. Sample Local Street Food
Amman is known for its street food scene, and trying some of the local delicacies is a top 10 thing to do in the city. Some popular street food items include shawarma, falafel, and manakish (a type of flatbread with various toppings).
4. Visit the Souk Jara Market
The Souk Jara Market is a weekly outdoor market that takes place in the summer months. It’s a great place to sample local food and drinks, as well as shop for souvenirs and handmade crafts.
5. Try Kunafa
Kunafa is a sweet pastry made with cheese and soaked in syrup. It’s a popular dessert in Jordan and can be found in most local bakeries and sweet shops.
Overall, savoring the flavors of local cuisine is a top 10 thing to do in Amman. From traditional dishes to street food and sweet treats, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Unwind in Amman’s Vibrant Nightlife
After a long day of exploring the top 10 things to do in Amman, it’s time to unwind and experience the city’s vibrant nightlife. Amman has a diverse and exciting nightlife scene that caters to all tastes and preferences. Here are some of the best places to visit:
1. Rainbow Street
Rainbow Street is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. It’s a lively street filled with cafes, restaurants, and bars. You can enjoy a cup of coffee or a delicious meal while listening to live music. The street is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with many bars and clubs open until the early hours of the morning.
2. The Boulevard
The Boulevard is a modern and trendy area in Amman that offers a variety of entertainment options. You can find restaurants, cafes, and bars that cater to all tastes. The area is also known for its live music performances and events.
3. Sufra Restaurant
Sufra Restaurant is a must-visit for foodies. The restaurant serves traditional Jordanian cuisine in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. You can enjoy a delicious meal while listening to live music and soaking up the local culture.
4. Blue Fig
Blue Fig is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It’s a cafe, restaurant, and bar all rolled into one. You can enjoy a cup of coffee or a delicious meal during the day, and then dance the night away to live music in the evening.
5. Maestro Restaurant and Bar
Maestro Restaurant and Bar is a sophisticated and elegant venue that offers a unique dining and entertainment experience. You can enjoy a delicious meal while listening to live music or watching a performance by local artists.
Amman’s nightlife scene is diverse and exciting, with something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a lively night out or a cozy evening with good food and music, Amman has it all. Don’t miss out on experiencing the city’s vibrant nightlife during your visit to Amman.
Explore the City’s Art and Culture Scene
Amman is a city that is rich in history and culture, and there are plenty of ways to explore its vibrant art scene. Here are some of the top 10 things to do in Amman that will allow you to immerse yourself in the city’s art and culture:
1. Visit the Jordan Museum
The Jordan Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history and culture of Jordan. The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the country’s rich heritage.
2. Explore the Roman Amphitheatre
The Roman Amphitheatre is one of the most iconic landmarks in Amman. This ancient structure dates back to the 2nd century AD and is a testament to the city’s rich history.
3. Check out the Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts
The Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts is a great place to explore the city’s contemporary art scene. The gallery features a wide range of exhibits and installations from local and international artists.
4. Visit the Royal Automobile Museum
The Royal Automobile Museum is a unique museum that showcases the history of Jordan’s transportation. The museum houses a collection of vintage cars and motorcycles that will take you back in time.
5. Take a stroll through Rainbow Street
Rainbow Street is a vibrant and colorful street in Amman that is home to a variety of shops, cafes, and art galleries. It’s a great place to explore the city’s street art scene and pick up some souvenirs.
6. Visit the Jordan Folklore Museum
The Jordan Folklore Museum is a great place to learn about the country’s traditional culture and customs. The museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the daily life of Jordanians.
7. Explore the Darat al Funun Art Gallery
Darat al Funun is a contemporary art gallery that is housed in a beautiful 1920s villa. The gallery features a wide range of exhibits and installations from local and international artists.
8. Visit the Citadel
The Citadel is a historic site that is home to a variety of ancient ruins and structures. It’s a great place to explore the city’s history and take in some stunning views of Amman.
9. Check out the Jordan Archaeological Museum
The Jordan Archaeological Museum is a great place to learn about the country’s ancient history. The museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that date back to the Neolithic period.
10. Attend a performance at the Royal Cultural Centre
The Royal Cultural Centre is a great place to experience the city’s vibrant performing arts scene. The centre hosts a variety of events and performances throughout the year, including music, dance, and theatre.
Exploring Amman’s art and culture scene is one of the top 10 things to do in Amman. With so many museums, galleries, and historic sites to explore, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.
Shop at Traditional Markets and Modern Malls
When it comes to shopping in Amman, you can find everything from traditional markets to modern malls. Here are some of the top 10 things to do Amman when it comes to shopping:
1. Visit the Old Souk
The Old Souk is a traditional market that has been around for centuries. Here, you can find everything from spices and textiles to jewelry and souvenirs. It’s a great place to experience the local culture and pick up some unique items.
2. Explore Rainbow Street
Rainbow Street is a trendy area in Amman that is known for its cafes, restaurants, and shops. It’s a great place to wander around and discover some hidden gems.
3. Check out the Boulevard
The Boulevard is a modern outdoor shopping mall that has a variety of stores and restaurants. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon shopping and dining.
4. Visit the City Mall
The City Mall is one of the largest malls in Amman and has over 200 stores. It’s a great place to shop for everything from clothing to electronics.
5. Shop at the Souk Jara
The Souk Jara is a weekly outdoor market that takes place during the summer months. Here, you can find handmade crafts, jewelry, and clothing.
6. Visit the Al Abdali Mall
The Al Abdali Mall is a modern shopping mall that has a variety of stores and restaurants. It’s a great place to shop for everything from clothing to home goods.
7. Check out the Taj Mall
The Taj Mall is a luxury shopping mall that has a variety of high-end stores. It’s a great place to shop for designer clothing and accessories.
8. Visit the Abdoun Mall
The Abdoun Mall is a modern shopping mall that has a variety of stores and restaurants. It’s a great place to shop for everything from clothing to electronics.
9. Shop at the Friday Market
The Friday Market is a weekly outdoor market that takes place in the heart of Amman. Here, you can find everything from fresh produce to clothing and electronics.
10. Explore the Sweifieh Shopping District
The Sweifieh Shopping District is a popular area in Amman that has a variety of stores and restaurants. It’s a great place to shop for everything from clothing to home goods.
Whether you prefer traditional markets or modern malls, Amman has something for everyone. Don’t miss out on these top 10 things to do Amman when it comes to shopping.
Embark on Exciting Day Trips from Amman
Amman is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture, but there’s also plenty to explore beyond its borders. Here are some of the top day trips you can take from Amman:
1. Visit the Ancient City of Jerash
Just an hour’s drive from Amman, Jerash is one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world. You can spend hours exploring the ruins, including the impressive Hadrian’s Arch and the Temple of Artemis. It’s a must-visit for history buffs and anyone interested in ancient architecture.
2. Explore the Desert Castles
The Desert Castles are a series of ancient fortresses and palaces located in the eastern desert of Jordan. They were built by the Umayyad caliphs in the 7th and 8th centuries and are known for their intricate mosaics and frescoes. Some of the most popular castles to visit include Qasr Kharana, Qasr Amra, and Qasr Azraq.
3. Hike in the Wadi Mujib Nature Reserve
If you’re looking for some outdoor adventure, head to the Wadi Mujib Nature Reserve. This stunning canyon is home to a variety of wildlife and offers some of the best hiking in Jordan. You can trek through the water-filled gorge, swim in natural pools, and even rappel down waterfalls.
4. Visit the Dead Sea
No trip to Jordan is complete without a visit to the Dead Sea. This saltwater lake is the lowest point on earth and is known for its healing properties. You can float in the buoyant water, cover yourself in mineral-rich mud, and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
5. Take a Trip to Petra
While Petra is not technically a day trip from Amman, it’s definitely worth the journey. This ancient city is one of the most iconic sites in Jordan and is known for its stunning rock-cut architecture. You can spend a full day exploring the temples, tombs, and amphitheaters, and still not see everything.
These are just a few of the top day trips you can take from Amman. With so many exciting things to see and do, it’s no wonder that Amman is one of the top destinations in the Middle East for travelers. Don’t forget to check out our other recommendations for the top 10 things to do in Amman.
In conclusion, the top 10 things to do Amman are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to exploring this vibrant and historic city. From ancient ruins to bustling markets, Amman offers a unique blend of old and new that is sure to captivate any traveler. As Journeying Jack, I can confidently say that my time spent in Amman was nothing short of extraordinary, and I hope that my Suitcase Stories have inspired you to embark on your own adventure to discover the top 10 things to do Amman.
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking for a memorable travel experience, the top 10 things to do Amman cater to a wide range of interests. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to create your own Suitcase Stories as you dive into the rich culture and history of Amman. And who knows? You might just find yourself adding a few more items to the list of top 10 things to do Amman as you uncover the hidden gems of this enchanting city.
Until our next adventure, this is Journeying Jack, signing off and wishing you happy travels as you explore the top 10 things to do Amman and beyond. Remember, the world is full of Suitcase Stories waiting to be told, and it’s up to us to discover them. Happy journeying!
