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Visiting Amman, Jordan: A Cultural and Historical Journey

Amman, the capital city of Jordan, is a vibrant blend of ancient history and modernity, offering visitors a unique experience that spans centuries. It’s known for its historic sites, bustling markets, and modern cafes and restaurants. Whether you’re exploring ancient Roman ruins or strolling through contemporary art galleries, Amman has something for everyone.

The Roman Theater in Amman Jordan

Best Time to Visit Amman

The best time to visit Amman largely depends on the weather, as the city experiences four distinct seasons:

  • Spring (March to May): This is widely considered the best time to visit Amman. The weather is mild and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The surrounding countryside is lush and green, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
  • Fall (September to November): Fall is another excellent time to visit, with temperatures similar to spring. The weather is pleasant, and there are fewer tourists than in spring, making it a quieter time to explore the city.
  • Winter (December to February): Winters in Amman can be chilly, especially at night, with temperatures dropping to around 5°C (41°F). There may also be occasional rain and even snow in higher elevations. However, this is a good time to visit if you prefer fewer crowds and don’t mind cooler weather.
  • Summer (June to August): Summers in Amman can be hot, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F). However, the dry desert heat is more bearable than humid climates. Visiting during the early morning or late evening is advisable if you're there in summer.

Top Activities to Do in Amman

  1. Visit the Roman Theater The Roman Theater is one of the most iconic landmarks in Amman, dating back to the 2nd century AD. This ancient amphitheater once held up to 6,000 spectators and is still used today for cultural events. Climb to the top for stunning views of the city.
  2. Explore the Citadel Located on Jabal al-Qal'a, the Citadel is a historic site that offers a glimpse into Amman's rich past. Here, you can see the Temple of Hercules, the Umayyad Palace, and the Byzantine Church. The views from the Citadel, overlooking the city, are breathtaking, especially at sunset.
  3. Stroll Through Rainbow Street Rainbow Street is one of the most popular streets in Amman, known for its cafes, restaurants, and shops. It’s a great place to experience the city’s modern side, sample Jordanian cuisine, or browse local art and crafts. Don’t miss the Friday Souk Jara, a local market with handicrafts and souvenirs.
  4. Tour the Jordan Museum For a deeper understanding of Jordan’s history, a visit to the Jordan Museum is a must. It houses artifacts dating from prehistoric times to the modern era, including parts of the Dead Sea Scrolls.
  5. Try Jordanian Cuisine Amman is a fantastic place to indulge in Jordanian food. Don’t miss dishes like mansaf (a traditional dish made with lamb, rice, and yogurt sauce), falafel, hummus, and kunafa (a popular dessert made with cheese and sweet syrup). You can find local favorites at restaurants like Hashem and Al Quds.
  6. Explore the Souks Amman’s souks (markets) are vibrant places to shop for spices, souvenirs, handicrafts, and textiles. Souk Al-Sukar and the Downtown Souk are especially popular for visitors looking to experience the local culture and pick up unique items.
  7. Day Trip to Jerash If you're in Amman, a day trip to Jerash is highly recommended. Located about an hour's drive from the capital, Jerash is home to one of the best-preserved Roman cities outside of Italy. Wander through the ancient streets, explore the grand Oval Plaza, and marvel at the Arch of Hadrian.
  8. Visit the Royal Automobile Museum Car enthusiasts will enjoy the Royal Automobile Museum, which showcases King Hussein's collection of cars and motorcycles, tracing the history of Jordan through its vehicles.
  9. Relax in Amman’s Cafés Amman is known for its café culture. Many places offer scenic views of the city, traditional Jordanian tea, and shisha. Books@Café and Café Jafra are popular spots for locals and visitors alike.
  10. Experience Amman's Art Scene The city's art galleries and cultural centers are hubs for contemporary Jordanian and regional artists. Darat al Funun is a major cultural center, while The Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts is a great place to appreciate modern Arab and Islamic art.

Practical Tips

  • Currency: The local currency is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD).
  • Transportation: Amman is a sprawling city, and while taxis are readily available and affordable, you may also want to explore on foot in certain areas like Rainbow Street.
  • Language: Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
  • Dress Code: Amman is relatively liberal, but it’s best to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Amman is a fantastic gateway to the rest of Jordan, including Petra, the Dead Sea, and Wadi Rum, but it also stands out as a dynamic and culturally rich city worth exploring on its own.