Top Tourist Attractions in Amman
Amman, the capital of Jordan, boasts a rich history spanning thousands of years, all the while pulsing with modernity and advancement. This city merges a glorious past with the present, where ancient Roman ruins blend with modern skyscrapers, offering a unique and diverse tourist experience. Let's explore together the standout tourist attractions that make Amman an unforgettable travel destination.
Petra
Petra, the Nabatean capital in Jordan, is one of the world's most iconic historical sites and a major tourist attraction. Attracting visitors from all around the globe, it is located 240 kilometers south of the capital, Amman, and 120 kilometers from the Gulf of Aqaba - the Red Sea. Petra is famed for its unique architecture centered around its rose-colored rocks, blending ancient architectural arts from various civilizations. It's an entire city carved into the stunning pink rock.
- Entrance Fee: The overnight tourist entry fee is 50 JD for one day, 55 JD for two days, and 60 JD for three days. Children under 12 enter free.
- Electric Car Fee: 15 JD for Jordanians and 10 JD for a one-way trip from the entrance gate to the Treasury for Jordanians; 25 JD for non-Jordanians and 15 JD for a round trip. For horse riding enthusiasts, the prepaid tourist ticket includes transportation from the archaeological site's entrance to the dam gate and back, with camel rides from the Treasury to the Monastery costing between 10 and 15 JD. There are also services to guide you to Petra’s Monastery and High Place of Sacrifice via donkey rides.
- Petra offers various facilities and services such as tour guides, organized tours, and special services. For Arab and foreign tourists, the ticket includes a two-hour guided tour. Private tours are available for 50 JD, providing a personal guide for a period extending from 2.30 to 3.30 hours.
- For an enhanced visit to Petra, consider staying overnight in one of the hotels near Petra to enable easy access to nearby historical sites such as Shobak Castle, the Tomb of Aaron, Wadi Rum, Little Petra, and the Dana Nature Reserve.
Wadi Rum
Explore the enchanting red sandstone desert where Lawrence of Arabia meets the majesty of nature. A trip to Wadi Rum is one of the finest experiences in Jordan. Spend a night in this beautiful valley, where you can enjoy the beauty of sunset and sunrise, and have an unforgettable night in a traditional Bedouin tent. Discover a unique culture and enjoy the hospitality of the remarkable people living in this desert. Make your trip to Wadi Rum an unparalleled experience, where natural beauty meets the spirit of ancient culture.
- Entrance Fee: 1 JD for Jordanians, 5 JD for foreigners.
- Wadi Rum and Petra are close enough to visit in one day, allowing you to enjoy the wilderness there.
The Dead Sea
The Dead Sea, a natural wonder at 427 meters below sea level, embodies an ideal tourism experience combining beach life and religious history. Known for its warm, highly saline waters containing unique mineral salts, visitors can relax on the water's surface and benefit from the rich black mud, which rejuvenates the body and offers a unique experience. This site has attracted visitors throughout the ages, from King Herod to Queen Cleopatra, and remains a destination that combines sunbathing and swimming with the benefits of its unique mineral waters.
- Don’t forget to take some Dead Sea mud; it’s great for the skin. You can also see Palestinian lands nearby. Swimming in the sea is not recommended due to its high salinity.
Ma'in Hot Springs
Don’t miss "Ma'in Hot Springs" when visiting the Dead Sea. These hot springs, located 264 meters below sea level in one of the world's most beautiful desert oases, are one of the nearby tourist wonders. The waters of its hot waterfalls, rich in mineral salts, make it an ideal relaxation destination where you can enjoy bathing and relaxing. The valley’s waters form from 109 cold and hot springs, reaching temperatures up to 63 degrees Celsius, with health benefits making it a destination for both tourists and residents alike.
Wadi Mujib
Wadi Mujib, located an hour and a half from Amman, is a branch of the Mujib Dam’s waterways. Known for its unique water experience, crossing the valley requires physical skills due to the diverse terrain and challenges it presents until reaching the end. The valley’s end features stunning views visible after completing the adventure, showcasing the beauty of nature in this part of the region. The Mujib Adventure Center offers public facilities, but it is advised to be cautious and carry a waterproof bag to protect your personal belongings and mobile phone. Wadi Mujib includes a large waterfall that adds beauty to the place, and you must return from where you started your journey.
- Entrance Fee: 16 JD for Jordanians, 18 JD for Arabs, and 21 JD for foreign tourists.
The Cave of the Seven Sleepers
In this archaeological site, there is a historical site that tells the story of a group of young men who slept in a cave for 309 years. The site contains seven tombs and a mosque, and other features such as Roman and Islamic inscriptions have been added. Interest in the site has continued over the ages, and the cave walls were restored during the reign of Saladin. Today, the site also includes a mosque, a religious school, and a public garden, making it a wonderful place to explore culture and history.
- A tour guide is available inside the cave, and the site closes at 5 PM, although the mosque and garden remain open.
Rainbow Street
Explore the essence of urban life in Amman by visiting Rainbow Street, one of the oldest streets in the city. The street transforms into a vibrant hub attracting both local and foreign visitors, characterized by its variety of unique cafes, restaurants, and splendid art galleries. This key destination in Amman provides a unique experience whether you're shopping, enjoying an evening out, or indulging in a light meal.
- We suggest visiting in the evening to enjoy its beautiful ambiance.
Downtown Amman
Prepare for a unique and enchanting journey to "Downtown" in the heart of old Amman. Here, the charm of the old world meets the splendor of modern life, as you wander its narrow streets, a treasure trove holding markets brimming with spices, textiles, and handicrafts. Your senses will be delighted by the scent of traditional Jordanian foods, with local restaurants offering unique dining experiences. But there’s more—the warmth of the people adds a special touch to this amazing experience.
- We suggest trying sugarcane juice, grabbing a delicious falafel meal from Hashem Restaurant, and then enjoying an irresistible knafeh from either Habibah or Al-Nablusi—you won’t forget their taste. Also, visit the Kalha Stairs, known for their beautiful murals filled with various paintings.
Roman Theater
This archaeological site is located in the eastern part of the city at the foot of Jabal Al-Jofeh and was built in honor of Emperor Antoninus Pius in AD 130. The site covers an area of 7,600 square meters and features Greek inscriptions on one of the column platforms. The theater was built alongside the Forum, and their construction dates back to the second century AD, around 138-161 AD.
- Operating Hours: Daily from 8 AM to 8 PM, except on Fridays and Saturdays when the site closes at 10 PM.
- Entrance Fee: 25 fils for Jordanians, 3 JD for foreigners.
Amman Citadel
This site is one of the prominent landmarks offering visitors a unique glimpse into the history of Amman. Located on the slope of the commanding hill, it offers a magnificent view over Downtown. The hill houses the Umayyad Palace, the Temple of Hercules, and a Byzantine church, making it a must-visit for exploring the city’s evolution through the ages.
- Operating Hours: Daily from 8 AM to 7 PM.
- Entrance Fee: 25 fils for Jordanians, 3 JD for foreigners.
- We suggest visiting the site just before sunset; the place is magical with the four surrounding mountains of Amman.
Abdali Mall
Abdali Mall in Amman is a comprehensive shopping destination featuring innovative architectural design over an area exceeding 227,000 square meters. It is the first mall of its kind in the kingdom, using eco-friendly technologies and an open design that allows for the entry of natural air and sunlight. The mall offers international fashion stores, a variety of restaurants and cafes, and cinemas equipped with the latest technology. It includes family entertainment facilities and indoor landscapes that enhance the design. Additionally, the mall focuses on resource sustainability using water and energy-saving systems. The parking accommodates 2,400 cars with a smart system, and the mall features a wide range of stores, restaurants, and entertainment, making it a distinctive shopping and entertainment center in the kingdom.
Operating Hours:
- Shops from Saturday to Thursday from 10 AM to 10 PM, Friday from 2 PM to 10 PM.
- Restaurants from Saturday to Thursday from 8 AM to 11 PM, Friday from 8 AM to midnight.
- Food court from Saturday to Thursday from noon to 11 PM, Friday from 2 PM to midnight.
- Family entertainment center from Saturday to Thursday from 10 AM to 10 PM, Friday from 2 PM to midnight.
- Cinema daily from noon to 2 AM after midnight. Supermarket daily from 8 AM to 11 PM.
King Abdullah I Mosque
Named in memory of King Hussein bin Talal - may God have mercy on him - this mosque is the largest in the kingdom in terms of size. The architectural design of the mosque reflects the Umayyad style that appears in several locations across the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.
Hejaz Railway Museum
Here, you can enjoy viewing an impressive collection of steam locomotives that still operate efficiently to this day. Historically, these steamboats were used as a means of transport along the pilgrimage route that connected the Ottoman Empire with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and played a vital role in the Great Arab Revolt of 1918.
- Operating Hours: Sunday to Thursday from 7 AM to 3 PM.
Royal Automobile Museum
Founded in 2009 under the patronage of His Majesty King Abdullah II, the Royal Automobile Museum offers an exciting look at Jordan's political history through exhibits reflecting the reigns of Kings Abdullah I and Abdullah II. The museum includes a collection of international vehicles, such as a historic Bugatti motorcycle and a 1952 convertible Lincoln Capri used by King Hussein bin Talal.
Operating Hours:
- Saturday to Monday from 10 AM to 7 PM
- Closed on Tuesday
- Wednesday from 9 AM to 7 PM
- Thursday from 10 AM to 7 PM
- Friday from 11 AM to 7 PM.
Entrance Fee: 1 JD for Jordanians, 3 JD for foreigners, free for children under 12 years old.
Jordan Children's Museum
This non-profit educational institution was established in 2007 by Her Majesty Queen Rania Al Abdullah. Spanning over 8,000 square meters, the museum contains more than 180 cultural exhibits, with comprehensive educational facilities and ongoing educational programs. Since its opening in 2007, the museum has welcomed more than 2.5 million visitors.
Operating Hours:
- Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 6 PM
- Sunday to Monday from 9 AM to 5 PM
- Closed on Tuesday
- Wednesday from 9 AM to 5 PM
- Thursday from 10 AM to 6 PM
Entrance Fee:
- Free entry for museum members all year
- 3 JD per person for non-member families (except children under one year old)
- 2 JD per person for groups of 10 or more.
- Group discounts apply only to non-member schools, centers, institutions, and associations, not to family groups.
- Member schools enjoy free entry according to the annual quota, non-member schools have 2 JD per student.
Darat al Funun
Darat al Funun is located in historic houses built by families from Jordan, Palestine, Syria, and Lebanon, making it a witness to the region's history. Today, it stands as a distinguished destination for lovers of culture and the arts, hosting art exhibitions and cultural events. Its library provides a place for reading enthusiasts, and its gardens offer a special spot for strolling. It also attracts visitors interested in the traditional architecture of Amman, as it overlooks the vibrant Downtown area.
Jordan Archaeological Museum
Enjoy visiting the Jordan Archaeological Museum at the Citadel in Amman, an architectural masterpiece at the top of the hill. Established in 1951 to display the wonderful artifacts discovered across Jordan, the museum is carefully designed to make the most of natural lighting, showcasing the beauty of the artifacts safely without the harmful effects of direct lighting.
Operating Hours:
- Summer: 8 AM to 7 PM, but Fridays and public holidays: 9 AM to 7 PM.
- Winter: 8 AM to 6 PM, but Fridays and public holidays: 9 AM to 5 PM.
Entrance Fee: The museum entrance ticket is the same as the entry ticket to the Citadel archaeological site itself.
Jordan Folklore Museum
Discover the beauty of Jordanian and Palestinian heritage at the Folklore Museum for Costumes and designs, opened in 1971 next to the Roman Theater in Amman. The museum offers a unique opportunity to explore and enjoy the rich heritage, reflecting the beauty and diversity of traditional designs and costumes from various regions in Jordan and Palestine.
- Operating Hours: Daily from 8 AM to 8 PM.
- Entrance Fee: 25 fils for Jordanians, 2 JD for foreigners.
The Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts
Prepare for a fantastic art experience at the Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts, where exceptional collections of fine arts have been gathered from 60 different countries. Discover works by prominent local and regional artists, with the art collection exceeding one thousand pieces, and enjoy the beauty and diversity of the arts at this distinguished artistic destination.
- Operating Hours: Daily from 9 AM to 7 PM, closed on Friday.
- Entrance Fee: 1 JD for Jordanians, 7 JD for foreigners, free entry for students of Jordanian institutes and universities.
The Jordan Museum
The Jordan Museum serves as a vibrant center in the heart of Ras Al-Ain, providing a comprehensive view of Jordan's history and culture. Thanks to its beautiful exhibits, the museum is a national hub for education and enlightenment, relying on an interactive teaching style that highlights the kingdom's historical and archaeological legacy.
- Operating Hours: Saturday to Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9 AM to 5 PM, Friday from 3 PM to 6 PM, closed on Tuesday.
Entrance Fee:
- 1 JD for Jordanians
- 5 JD for foreigners,
- 50 fils for Jordanian individuals up to 18 years old,
- 25 fils for visitors from Jordanian schools and universities on an unarranged trip with the museum management.
Iraq Al-Amir (Qasr Al-Abd)
Iraq Al-Amir, located southwest of Amman, is rich in olive trees and features hillside caves dating back to the Copper Age. It is advisable to visit Qasr Al-Abd while touring the area, as the palace is an example of architectural engineering dating back to the pre-Roman period in Jordan.
Hussein Gardens
Hussein Gardens is a vast park with a cultural village, museums, and spots for sports and entertainment. It offers scenic landscapes, includes areas for children's play, and historical spots for photography. This park is an ideal place for relaxation and enjoying quiet times, with free entry and ample parking facilities. It is recommended to visit in the morning to avoid crowds, making it an excellent choice for families, children, and youth for a fun day.
- The gardens are located near the Royal Automobile Museum, allowing you to visit both in one day if you wish.
Prince Hashim Bird Garden
Located in the Shmeisani area of Amman, the park was established in 1979 by the Greater Amman Municipality, making it the first specialized park in the city. It hosts a variety of birds, including ducks, geese, peacocks, parrots, and more. The park features play areas and shaded seating areas and is considered one of Amman's cleanest and best-maintained parks.
- Operating Hours: Daily from 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM, closed on Tuesday.
King Abdullah II Gardens
The King Abdullah II Gardens were established to provide a vast breathing space for citizens in eastern and southern Amman and neighboring areas, being one of the largest and most beautiful parks in the capital. The vast area, exceeding 500 dunams, features advanced designs and facilities to meet the diverse needs of visitors, including sports fields, play areas for children, an educational traffic park, areas for barbecues and picnics, walking and cycling tracks, green spaces, a sports area for women, and beautifully designed gardens.
- Operating Hours: Daily from 8 AM to 3 PM, closed on Tuesday.
Amman Waves Aqua Park
Amman Waves Aqua Park, one of Jordan's best water parks, opened in 2004 in an area close to 80,000 square meters. It offers more than 25 unique water rides, including straight and curved slides, making it an ideal place to enjoy fun times in nature. The park includes restaurants offering a variety of foods, as well as commercial services and shops selling swimwear. The future project includes opening more than 120 chalets and distinguishing the resort with unique water rides and a variety of entertainment facilities.
- Operating Hours: Daily from 11 AM to midnight.
- Entrance Fee: Adult tickets from age 11 and above are 15 JD, children's tickets from age 2 to 11 are 10 JD, and tickets are free for children under two years old.
Visiting Amman offers an unparalleled experience. The enjoyment of its diverse cultural surroundings and the variety of attractions make it one of the great tourist destinations in the Middle East. If you want to explore the most prominent tourist places in Jordan and discover nearby cities from Amman that boast special historical sites, WINGIE will provide you with the best deals on flights to Amman!
