Amman, the capital of Jordan, spreads across a series of steep hills, or jabals, between the desert and the Jordan Valley, a city of pale limestone houses stacked up the slopes, with minarets, church towers and the occasional glass tower in between. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world: the Ammonites called it Rabbath Ammon, the Greeks and Romans Philadelphia, and you can still climb to the Citadel’s Temple of Hercules and Umayyad Palace for views over the huge Roman Theatre carved into the hillside below. Downtown, known as Al-Balad, has busy souqs, falafel and hummus institutions and the sweet smell of knafeh, while the older hills of Jabal Amman and Jabal al-Weibdeh have stone villas, galleries, cafes and Rainbow Street. Western Amman is more modern, with malls, international hotels and the new Abdali district. About 4 million people live in Amman, which is relaxed, safe and friendly, with a growing food and cafe scene. Most visitors use it as a base for Jerash, Madaba, Mount Nebo and the Dead Sea, all within an hour or so, before heading south to Petra. Amman’s climate is milder than much of the region thanks to its altitude: summers are warm and dry, with average highs of about 32 °C (90 °F), and winters are cool and wet, with occasional snow.
Right now in Amman
- Wed 14–25°C 57–77°F Mostly clear
- Thu 17–28°C 62–83°F Clear
- Fri 18–29°C 65–84°F Clear
Weather: MET Norway (CC BY 4.0)
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Amman at a glance
- Best months: March to May and September to November, with warm days and cool evenings. Summer is warm and dry; winter is cool, with rain and occasional snow.
- Time needed: one day for the Citadel, the Roman Theatre and downtown; two days with the Jordan Museum, Rainbow Street and Jabal al-Weibdeh; three or four days with day trips to Jerash, Madaba and the Dead Sea.
- Getting there: Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) is about 35 km (22 miles) south of the city. Most nationalities can buy a visa on arrival for JOD 40, or have it waived with a Jordan Pass bought before arrival.
- Costs (as of October 2026): the Citadel costs JOD 3 (about US$4) and the Jordan Museum JOD 5 (about US$7) for foreign visitors; the Citadel is included in the Jordan Pass.
- Before you go: visas, the Jordan Pass, money and laws are covered in our Jordan travel guide.
Amman areas and who each one suits
Downtown (Al-Balad)
The old heart of the city lies in the valley below the Citadel, around the Grand Husseini Mosque, built in 1924 on the site of a much older mosque. It has the Roman Theatre, the Nymphaeum, the gold and spice souqs, the Souq al-Sukar fruit and vegetable market and famous cheap eateries. Budget hotels here suit travelers who want to be in the thick of things, though it’s noisy and steep.
Jabal Amman and Rainbow Street
One of Amman’s oldest residential hills, with stone villas and the city’s numbered “circles.” Rainbow Street, one of the oldest streets in the city, is lined with cafes, restaurants, craft shops such as Turquoise Mountain and the Jordan River Foundation showroom, and a summer Friday market at Souq Jara. Boutique hotels here suit couples and first-time visitors.
Jabal al-Weibdeh
A leafy, artistic neighborhood across the valley from the Citadel, with the Darat al-Funun arts center, the National Gallery of Fine Arts, the Jordanian Crafts Center near Paris Square, small cafes and guesthouses. A favorite for slow travelers.
Abdali and Shmeisani
The modern business districts, with the Abdali Boulevard of shops and restaurants, the JETT bus station, malls and international hotels. Convenient for transport and business trips.
Sweifieh, Abdoun and western Amman
Upmarket residential districts with malls, restaurants, bars and luxury hotels. Better for shopping and nightlife than for sightseeing.
Top things to see in Amman
The Citadel (Jabal al-Qal’a)
On Amman’s highest hill, the Citadel has the columns of the Roman Temple of Hercules, a Byzantine church and the domed audience hall of the Umayyad Palace complex, plus the Jordan Archaeological Museum, built in 1951 to display finds from excavations across the country. The views over downtown and the Roman Theatre are the best in the city. Entry costs JOD 3 for foreign visitors and is included in the Jordan Pass, and the site opens from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Roman Theatre and the Nymphaeum
The 2nd-century Roman Theatre is cut into the hillside below the Citadel and seats several thousand people; small folklore and popular-traditions museums occupy its wings. Entry costs JOD 2 for foreign visitors and covers the museums. A short walk away, the Nymphaeum, built in 191 AD, was once a two-story complex of fountains and pools.
The Jordan Museum
In the Ras al-Ain district, the national museum tells the story of Jordan from prehistory to the present in modern galleries, with highlights including some of the world’s oldest human statues from Ain Ghazal and fragments of the Dead Sea Scrolls. Entry costs JOD 5 for foreign visitors and JOD 1 for residents.
King Abdullah I Mosque
Built by King Hussein as a memorial to his grandfather, this blue-domed mosque holds up to 7,000 worshippers inside and 3,000 in its courtyard. Non-Muslim visitors are usually welcome outside prayer times; dress modestly, and women should cover their hair.
Rainbow Street and Jabal al-Weibdeh
Spend an afternoon walking between Jabal Amman’s Rainbow Street, with its cafes and craft shops, and the galleries of Jabal al-Weibdeh, taking in Darat al-Funun, a group of restored houses that host contemporary art exhibitions above an archaeological site, and the National Gallery of Fine Arts, with works from around 60 countries.
The Royal Automobile Museum
In King Hussein Park, the museum traces Jordan’s modern history through cars and motorbikes used by the royal family since the reign of King Abdullah I, along with rare foreign vehicles. Entry costs JOD 5 for foreign visitors, or JOD 7 with an audio guide.
King Hussein Bin Talal Mosque
The largest mosque in Jordan, in King Hussein Park, built in a style inspired by the Umayyad monuments of the region. Visit outside prayer times and dress modestly.
Other things to do in Amman
- Hijaz Railway Station: the historic station of the line built between 1900 and 1908 from Damascus toward Medina, with a museum and steam locomotives; heritage train rides run on some days.
- The Children’s Museum: a large interactive museum in King Hussein Park with more than 180 exhibits, good for families.
- Souq Jara: a Friday street market on Jabal Amman in summer with crafts, street food and live music.
- Cooking classes: several kitchens in Jabal Amman and al-Weibdeh teach mansaf, maqluba and mezze.
- Hammams: traditional Turkish baths in Jabal Amman and western Amman offer a steam, scrub and massage.
- Iraq al-Amir: a Hellenistic palace and cave village in green hills about 30 minutes west, entry JOD 1.
Food and drink
Amman is the best place in Jordan to eat. Start the day with hummus, falafel and fresh bread at a downtown institution such as Hashem, open for decades and famous with locals and visitors alike, followed by knafeh, the warm cheese pastry soaked in syrup, from Habiba nearby. Try mansaf, the national dish of lamb in fermented yogurt sauce, maqluba, musakhan (roast chicken with onions and sumac on flatbread), shawarma and grilled meats. Jabal Amman and al-Weibdeh have cafes for Arabic coffee and fresh juices, and western Amman has modern restaurants and international food. Alcohol is served in licensed bars, restaurants and hotels, mostly in Jabal Amman, Abdoun and Sweifieh; drinking on the street is illegal.
Day trips from Amman
Jerash
About 50 km (31 miles), or an hour, north, Jerash is one of the best-preserved Roman provincial cities, with Hadrian’s Arch, a hippodrome, an oval forum, a long colonnaded street, temples of Zeus and Artemis and two theatres. Entry costs JOD 10 for foreign visitors, including the site museum, and is covered by the Jordan Pass; the site opens from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Combine it with Ajloun Castle, a 12th-century hilltop fortress, about 30 minutes farther on.
Madaba and Mount Nebo
About 35 km (22 miles) southwest, Madaba is famous for its Byzantine mosaics, especially the 6th-century mosaic map of the Holy Land in St. George’s Church, and the Madaba Archaeological Park and Church of the Apostles (JOD 3). Nearby Mount Nebo (JOD 3), where tradition says Moses saw the Promised Land, has a memorial church with fine mosaics and views over the Jordan Valley.
The Dead Sea and the Baptism Site
About an hour west, the Dead Sea lies about 427 m (1,400 feet) below sea level. Float at a resort hotel’s private beach with a day pass or at the public Amman Tourist Beach. Nearby, the Baptism Site “Bethany Beyond the Jordan” (Al-Maghtas), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, costs JOD 12, including a shuttle and local guide.
The desert castles
East of Amman, a loop of about 250 km (155 miles) takes in the Umayyad “desert castles”: Qasr al-Kharana, the frescoed bathhouse of Quseir Amra (a UNESCO site), Azraq Castle and Qasr al-Hallabat, each JOD 3 or included in the Jordan Pass.
Nearby destinations
Getting there and getting around
Queen Alia International Airport (AMM)
The main airport is about 35 km (22 miles) south of Amman, with flights across the Middle East, Europe and beyond on Royal Jordanian and many other airlines. The Jordan Tourism Board says a taxi to downtown takes about 30–45 minutes and costs about JOD 15 (about US$21). Airport buses run to Amman’s southern bus station every half-hour from 6 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and hourly through the evening and night, for JOD 3. Since early 2026, regional tensions have led to periodic airspace closures across the Middle East, so flights can be delayed, rerouted or canceled at short notice; check your flight with the airline before you travel.
Buses
JETT runs intercity buses from Abdali station to Petra (leaving at about 6:30 a.m.), Aqaba, the Dead Sea and other cities. Public buses and minibuses use the northern (Tabarbour) and southern (Wehdat) stations. The Amman Bus Rapid Transit has dedicated lanes on some main roads, but for most sights taxis are easier.
Taxis and ride-hailing
Yellow taxis are cheap and plentiful and should use their meters; late at night, agree on a fare first. White “service” taxis are shared and run fixed routes. Careem, Uber, Jeeny and Petra Ride operate in Amman; many visitors find apps easier because addresses can be vague and spellings vary. Women traveling alone usually sit in the back.
Driving and walking
Amman’s hills, one-way streets and heavy traffic make driving in the city stressful, so pick up a rental car on the way out to Jerash or the Dead Sea. Downtown, Jabal Amman and al-Weibdeh are walkable, linked by long stairways, but bring good shoes: the hills are steep.
When to go and how long to stay
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the most pleasant seasons, with average highs of 17–28 °C (63–82 °F) in spring. Summer (June to August) is dry and warm rather than scorching, with average highs of about 31–32 °C (87–90 °F) and cool nights, so Amman is cooler than the Dead Sea or Aqaba. Winter (December to February) is cool and wet, with average lows of 4–5 °C (38–41 °F), rain on about 8 to 11 days a month and occasional snow that can close roads and slow the city down.
| Month | Average high / low | Rain (rain days) | What to expect |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 12 °C (54 °F) / 4 °C (38 °F) | 63 mm (2.5 in), 11 days | Cold, wet; occasional snow |
| February | 14 °C (57 °F) / 4 °C (40 °F) | 62 mm (2.4 in), 11 days | Cold, wet spells |
| March | 17 °C (63 °F) / 6 °C (43 °F) | 43 mm (1.7 in), 8 days | Cool; spring flowers |
| April | 23 °C (73 °F) / 10 °C (49 °F) | 14 mm (0.5 in), 4 days | Mild; excellent |
| May | 28 °C (82 °F) / 14 °C (56 °F) | 3 mm (0.1 in), 2 days | Warm; excellent |
| June | 31 °C (87 °F) / 17 °C (62 °F) | under 1 mm, 0 days | Warm, dry |
| July | 32 °C (90 °F) / 18 °C (65 °F) | under 1 mm, 0 days | Warm days, cool nights |
| August | 32 °C (90 °F) / 19 °C (65 °F) | under 1 mm, 0 days | Warm days, cool nights |
| September | 31 °C (87 °F) / 17 °C (62 °F) | under 1 mm, 0 days | Warm; very good |
| October | 27 °C (81 °F) / 14 °C (57 °F) | 7 mm (0.3 in), 2 days | Pleasant; excellent |
| November | 20 °C (69 °F) / 9 °C (49 °F) | 28 mm (1.1 in), 5 days | Cool; first rains |
| December | 14 °C (58 °F) / 5 °C (41 °F) | 49 mm (1.9 in), 8 days | Cool and wet |
| Year | 23 °C (74 °F) / 11 °C (52 °F) | 269 mm (10.6 in), 52 days |
The figures are the average daily highs and lows, monthly rainfall and rain days that the Jordan Meteorological Department publishes for Amman through the World Meteorological Organization’s World Weather Information Service.
Events worth planning around
- Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts: concerts and performances in Jerash’s Roman theatres, usually in summer.
- Souq Jara: Friday market on Jabal Amman in summer.
- Amman Design Week: an exhibition and events program for local and regional design, held in some years in October.
- Ramadan: in 2027 expected from about 8 February to 9 March; restaurants open after sunset and the evenings are lively.
Dates change each year; check with the organizers.
How long to stay: 2, 3 and 4 days
- Two days: the Citadel, the Roman Theatre and downtown on day one; the Jordan Museum, Rainbow Street and Jabal al-Weibdeh on day two.
- Three days: add a morning in Jerash and Ajloun.
- Four days: add Madaba, Mount Nebo and an afternoon at the Dead Sea.
Where to stay in Amman
- Downtown: budget hotels and hostels near the Roman Theatre and souqs.
- Jabal Amman: boutique hotels and guesthouses near Rainbow Street.
- Jabal al-Weibdeh: small guesthouses and apartments in a quiet, artsy area.
- Abdali and Shmeisani: international business hotels near the JETT station and Abdali Boulevard.
- Western Amman: luxury hotels in Abdoun, Sweifieh and near the 5th to 8th circles.
Rates are highest in spring and autumn; compare totals, as a 16% sales tax and service charges are often added.
Typical costs in Amman
| Item (as of October 2026) | Jordanian dinars | About US dollars |
|---|---|---|
| Amman Citadel, foreign visitors | JOD 3 | $4.20 |
| Roman Theatre and museums | JOD 2 | $2.80 |
| Jordan Museum, foreign visitors | JOD 5 | $7 |
| Royal Automobile Museum (with audio guide) | JOD 5 (7) | $7 ($10) |
| Jerash, foreign visitors | JOD 10 | $14 |
| Airport bus to the southern bus station | JOD 3 | $4.20 |
| Taxi from the airport to downtown | about JOD 15 | about $21 |
| Falafel and hummus breakfast downtown | about JOD 2–4 | about $3–6 |
| Mid-range hotel room, per night | about JOD 50–100 | about $70–140 |
Site fees and airport transport are those published by the Jordan Tourism Board; meals and hotels are typical ranges. The dinar is worth about US$1.41.
Safety in Amman
Amman is one of the safest capitals in the region, with low crime. The main issues for visitors are traffic, petty theft and following local customs.
- Traffic: drivers are fast and assertive, and pedestrian crossings are scarce; cross carefully.
- Petty crime: pickpocketing and bag-snatching happen in crowded downtown streets; keep valuables secure.
- Taxis: use metered taxis or ride-hailing apps, and sit in the back if you’re traveling alone.
- Dress codes: cover shoulders and knees, especially downtown and at mosques, where women should also cover their hair.
- Demonstrations and crowds: avoid protests and very large gatherings, and follow the advice of the local authorities.
- Winter weather: snow and heavy rain can cause flooding and close roads; follow official alerts.
- ID checks: carry your passport or a copy for police checkpoints.
- Flight disruptions: since early 2026, regional tensions have led to periodic airspace closures across the Middle East; check your flight with the airline before you travel and follow instructions from the local authorities, including official emergency alerts.
- Emergencies: call 911 for police, ambulance and fire.
Practical tips for Amman
- Time zone: UTC+3 all year.
- Weekend: Friday and Saturday; many downtown shops close on Friday mornings.
- Addresses: use landmarks and the numbered circles rather than street names, and share a map pin with drivers.
- Money and plugs: cards are widely accepted in western Amman, but carry cash downtown. Power is 220 V; sockets take round two-pin plugs, and British three-pin sockets are also common.
What to pack for Amman
Pack comfortable shoes for steep hills and stairs, clothes that cover shoulders and knees, a scarf for women visiting mosques, and layers: evenings are cool even in summer, and winters need a warm jacket, umbrella and waterproof shoes. Add sunglasses and sunscreen, a refillable water bottle and a plug adapter.
Amman travel FAQ
Is Amman worth visiting?
Yes. The Citadel, the Roman Theatre and the Jordan Museum are worth a day or two, and the city is the best base for Jerash, Madaba and the Dead Sea.
How much does the Amman Citadel cost?
JOD 3 for foreign visitors, and it’s included in the Jordan Pass.
What are the Citadel’s opening hours?
The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities’ Jordan Pass site lists 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
How do I get from Queen Alia Airport to Amman?
By taxi in about 30–45 minutes for about JOD 15, or on the airport bus to the southern bus station for JOD 3.
Can I visit Jerash on a day trip from Amman?
Yes. It’s about an hour’s drive north; entry costs JOD 10 and is included in the Jordan Pass.
How far is the Dead Sea from Amman?
About an hour by car.
What is the best area to stay in Amman?
Jabal Amman for boutique hotels near Rainbow Street, Jabal al-Weibdeh for a quiet artsy base, and downtown for budget stays close to the sights.
Does it snow in Amman?
Occasionally in winter, usually for a day or two, when roads can close.
Do I need a visa for Amman?
Most nationalities can get a visa on arrival for JOD 40, waived if you buy a Jordan Pass before arrival and stay at least two nights. See our Jordan guide.
Can I use Uber in Amman?
Yes. Uber, Careem, Jeeny and Petra Ride operate in the city.
Sources and last review
Researched and last reviewed on 5 October 2026. Site fees for the Citadel, Roman Theatre, Jordan Museum, Royal Automobile Museum, Jerash, Madaba, Mount Nebo, Iraq al-Amir, the desert castles and the Baptism Site, descriptions of the Citadel, Jordan Archaeological Museum, Nymphaeum, King Abdullah I, King Hussein and Grand Husseini mosques, Rainbow Street, Souq Jara, Darat al-Funun, the National Gallery, the Hijaz Railway Station, the Children’s Museum, Hashem and Habiba, the airport taxi and bus, ride-hailing apps and electricity come from the Jordan Tourism Board; opening hours and Jordan Pass coverage from the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities’ Jordan Pass website; the Baptism Site’s World Heritage status from UNESCO; laws, safety and emergency numbers from GOV.UK’s Jordan travel information (updated 10 September 2026); airspace disruption from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency; climate averages from the Jordan Meteorological Department via the World Meteorological Organization; population from Wikidata. Neighborhood descriptions, the Jordan Museum’s exhibits, the bus stations and BRT, hammams, cooking classes, events, Ramadan 2027 dates, distances and drive times, meal and hotel prices are general references and flagged for checking. For entry rules and money, see our Jordan travel guide.
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