Best One Day in Amman Itinerary: How To Spend 24h in Amman

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Amman, the capital of the Kingdom of Jordan, is usually an entry point to Jordan and a quick stopover before heading off to more popular Jordan attractions, like Petra and Wadi Rum. It was for me. I spent a full day in this ancient city, and will share how to spend 24 hours in Amman, before taking the best day trips from Amman.

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White city or city of hills, as Amman is usually referred to, offers a perfect introduction into Jordanian culture. By spending a full day in Amman, you will get to learn the fundamentals of ancient history in Jordan and try mouth-watering culinary delights. You can even sign up for one of the best food tours in Amman. It will be worth it!

This free Amman city tour will help you visit all the city’s famous attractions. Some of Amman highlights are even included in Jordan Pass. You will dine in the best falafel restaurant, visit Rainbow Street and have time to do some shopping.

Here is my Amman itinerary idea. It is how I visited Amman, with the info on what to do in Amman in one day.

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1. Best time to visit Amman

When it comes to planning your visit to Jordan’s capital, the best time to visit Amman corresponds with the best time to visit Jordan. The great news is it can be visited all year round.

In general, most people will say that the best time to visit is Spring, between March and May, or in Autumn, between September and November. Weather is pleasantly mild, and the temperatures are not too hot for daily exploring. The cost of ideal weather comes with more people and higher prices.

If you can try to avoid traveling to Jordan and Amman in scorching summer heat. Temperatures during the day can go as high as 40°C (104 °F) which makes sightseeing a bit more challenging. In chilly winter you might get to see some snow on the hills of Amman, but there will be fewer crowds and a chance to fully embrace the city’s cultural offerings.

2. How to get to Amman from Queen Alia Airport

There are four ways on how to get from Amman Queen Alia Airport to Amman city.

• TAXI
  Taxi might be the fastest way to reach Amman from the Airport. The ride will take from 30 to 45 min, depending on the traffic. Make sure you go with the official Airport Taxis, with registered drivers. You will find them outside the terminal. This is a door-to-door service, especially useful if traveling solo. Taxis from the Airport to Amman have a fixed rate of 22 JD (31 USD / 29 EUR). 

• SHUTTLE BUS
  Taking the Sariya Shuttle Bus or the Airport Express Bus is the slowest and cheapest option. One-way ticket from the Airport to Amman costs 3.3 JD (4.6 USD / 4.3 EUR), and the journey will take around 60 minutes. Shuttle buses depart every 30 minutes from 6:30 am to 6:00 pm, and every 60 minutes from 6:00 pm to 00:00 am. You might have to walk or take a taxi or Uber to get to your accommodation from the bus stop.

• PRIVATE TRANSFER
  Booking a private transfer is the most comfortable and safest option if traveling solo. Your driver will already wait for you at the arrivals with a sign, and drop you off at your hotel in Amman. As a female traveler, I usually book a private driver when first landing in the country. To be hassle-free and safe. Plus I don’t have to deal with money exchange issues since the transfer is pre-booked online. The drive to Amman will take from 30 to 45 minutes and the price ranges from 26 EUR (28 USD) to 40 EUR (44 USD). Not that much more than a taxi (when solo).

• RENTAL CAR
  Renting a car at Amman Airport is the most convenient way for traveling to Jordan. Although you technically don’t need a car in Amman, and driving in Amman is a challenge on its own, I decided to rent a car with Discover Cars. I paid 23 EUR (25 USD) per day, which was cheaper than booking a private transfer or taking a taxi. Rent your car in advance to get your preferred one. I was driving in Jordan with the help of downloaded Google Maps.

3. How to Get Around in Amman in a Day

City of Amman is built on seven hills, which means you will be going up and down. The good news is that the main attractions, like Amman Citadel and Roman Theatre, are really close by.

Most of the Amman attractions are within walkable distance but there are some steps in between them. Same as when going from downtown to Rainbow Street. Amman is not the most pedestrian-friendly city, but it is manageable if you don’t mind a few hills and steps.

In this Amman itinerary, I used Uber twice, but you can use normal taxis parked in front of the attractions (or walk). Prices were fair and the drive did save me a fair amount of walking.
I do not recommend using a rental car in Amman.

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4. Detailed itinerary for one day in Amman

4.1. Morning in Amman: Exploring Ancient Wonders

Start your Amman 1 day itinerary with a nice breakfast and a cup of Jordanian coffee, made with Arabic coffee beans and added cardamom seeds. If your hotel is not serving breakfast, I recommend visiting one of the breakfast places or bakeries in Amman and trying Manakeesh.

Manakeesh (or Manakish) is a Middle-Eastern or Mediterranean flatbread that is typically eaten for breakfast. It is made with, usually homemade, dough and topped with various toppings. The most common ones are cheese and Za’atar. Za’atar is a spice blend made from savory dried herbs like oregano, marjoram or thyme, and toasted earthy spices like cumin and coriander, with sesame and salt.

4.1.1. Blue Mosque or King Abdullah I. Mosque

After a delicious breakfast, it is time to start your Amman itinerary with a dash of history and architectural splendor. Our morning adventure begins at the breathtaking Blue Mosque, also known as King Abdullah I. Mosque. It has an iconic blue dome and stands as a symbol of Jordan’s religious and cultural heritage.
 
It was built between 1982 in 1986 and it is not the oldest one in Amman but it is the only mosque in Amman that non-Muslims can visit. The entrance fee is 3 JD and you get a small brochure about the mosque. Women also get a black or brown hooded robe to cover head, arms and legs.

Inside the mosque’s interior, which can hold 7000 worshippers, you can admire the tranquil ambiance and grand chandeliers. There are beautiful blue mosaics outside.

4.1.2. Amman Citadel

After seeing the King Abdullah I. Mosque it is time to visit one of the oldest parts of Amman, the majestic Citadel, perched atop one of Amman’s seven hills. The mosque and Citadel are around 3 km apart. I took an UBER to save me some steps and paid 2 JD. If you don’t have an UBER app taxis are waiting in front of the mosque entrance. 

This is one of the best places to visit in Amman Jordan. Amman Citadel entrance fee is 3 JD and is also included in the Jordan Pass. Amman Citadel opening hours are from 8.00-19.00.

The Amman Citadel has been the seat of various civilizations and continuously inhabited since the Neolithic period. During that time Amman had many names but the most memorable one was Philadelphia.

The main attraction is the Temple of Hercules, a colossal Roman structure that stands as a testament to the city’s ancient past. Other notable structures are the Byzantine church and the  Umayyad Palace, once a lavish residence adorned with exquisite frescoes and intricate architectural details.

You can learn more about archeological findings in the small Archeological museum on the citadel’s ground. Inside you can see pottery samples, learn about Petra and Nabateans and see the collection of Ain Ghazal statues.

Citadel is also a great point offering panoramic views over the white city of Amman and a perfect location to snap best Amman photos. You can grab something to drink or eat at Amman Citadel restaurant.

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4.1.3. The Roman Theatre

After around 2 hours spent in Amman Citadel, head down to the Roman Theatre. Visiting the Roman Theatre is one of the things to do in Amman in one day. It will take around 20 minutes to walk downhill through narrow streets. You can use Google Maps or follow the signs. If it’s too hot and you need a break, treat yourself with freshly squeezed orange juice. 

Roman Theatre dates back to the Roman period, to the 2nd century when Amman was known under the name Philadelphia. Entrance fee to Roman Theatre is included the Jordan Pass. Without the pass the Roman Theater Amman entrance fee is 2 JD. 

A grand amphitheater was used as a venue for musical performances. There are actually two theatres, a small one and a big one. On both sides of the bigger one, there are smaller museums, one is the Jordanian Museum of Popular Traditions and the other is The Folklore Museum. 

When climbing up the stairs be careful of your step, since the rocks are very slippery

4.2. Lunch in Amman

After seeing two of the most famous Amman landmarks, it’s time for a break. A break in the most popular restaurant in Amman. Hashem restaurant is one of the oldest Jordanian Street Food restaurants in the capital, serving Jordanian food since 1952.

Everybody who’s anybody, from celebrities, Royal family members, and diplomats, has enjoyed a meal in this vegetarian restaurant.

At the time of my visit, the place was busy, but I didn’t have to wait for the table. I was told long queues can happen, but I can confirm they are worth the wait!

As soon as you get to the table, they bring you mint tea and a plate of vegetables plus bread. If you are searching for Hashem Hashem restaurant menu, well … They don’t have a menu. I just ordered them to bring me their ‘best dishes’. This ended up being falafel, hummus, mutabal (moutabal) and ful medames. You eat with your hands, breaking bread into tiny pieces and scooping out the dips. There are no utensils served.

Here I had the best falafel and second-best hummus all around Jordan. For the amount of food, price was very reasonable and I definitely recommend eating here. You can find more food delights by joining one of the food tours in Amman.

4.3. Afternoon in Amman: Al Balad Shopping and Bohemian Rainbow Street

4.3.1. Al Balad Downtown

With your bellies full and energy restored it is time to do some shopping. But before that, if you are craving something sweet, go to Habibah Sweets and taste their traditional knafeh.

The best place for shopping in Amman is in the Downtown area or Al Balad. Al Balad is the oldest part of Amman and dates back thousands of years, just like the Citadel.

This is a lively area, full of shops, bazaars and restaurants. And if you have been following my itinerary so far and eating in Hashem Restaurant, you are already in Al Balad area. So no need to go far.

If you want to buy some souvenirs and experience the art of haggling, visit Souk Al-Bukhariyeh, close to the Grand Husseini Mosque. For other first-hand experiences, you can also visit Souk Al-Dahab or Gold Souk, and Souq Mango for all kinds of clothing and fabrics.

4.3.2. Rainbow Street

After you have done exploring the narrow streets and shopping for souvenirs at busy baazars, continue Amman city tour itinerary and head up to Rainbow Street. There will be steps uphill but nothing major. From Bukhariyeh Market to Rainbow Street there is 10-15 minutes walk.

Rainbow Street is a trendy, modern street in Amman, full of bookstores, galleries, cafes, and restaurants. When here make sure to stop at famous Al Quds Falafel and try their falafel sandwich. Don’t mix this with Al Quds restaurant, located close to Hashem restaurant in Downtown, which serves the best traditional Jordanian food Mansaf. A proper meal that is made of lamb cooked in yogurt with rice.

If you are not hungry yet and want to have dinner at some other place – like Mijana, stop in one of the cafes and have a cup of coffee paired with shisha. Or tea. Or my favorite drink in Jordan lemon mint.

This is a well-known and popular street amongst locals and tourists, with vibrant personality and charm. It’s a place where old meets new, and where traditions intertwine with modern trends.

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4.4. Dinner in Amman

To finish off your one day in Amman indulge in a nice dinner right here, on Rainbow Street. Mijana is a family-run restaurant nestled in one of Rainbow Street’s oldest tree-floor houses.

It offers Middle Eastern and a range of international cuisine. You can choose to sit in the garden or on the rooftop and dine with the breathtaking views of the Citadel and Downtown Amman.

Since this is a busy place make sure to reserve a table in advance to secure your preferred searing location. I loved the level of service and how knowledgeable the waiters were. They offered great advice on what to order and how big the portions are. (I loved this since I haven’t figured out just yet how fast I get full eating Jordanian food.)

In case this is important for you, they don’t serve alcoholic drinks, but they make a delicious Lemon Mint. 

Depending on your mood or energy level, your can walk or take a taxi back to your hotel. For me, the dinner and day in Amman were just too nice for me to ‘finish’ it with walking. So I  ordered another UBER to take me back to the hotel and paid 2 JD for it. But it was not the end of my Amman itinerary.

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4.5. Evening in Amman: Sunset drinks and rooftop views

After your dinner in Mijana on Rainbow Street, you can return to your hotel, or go to one of the 5 stars hotels in Amman with rooftop bars for a refreshing drink.

I visited Movenpick and their Rumors Lounge, Panoramic Cocktail Bar & Terrace in Amman. It was too cold to sit outside, but the terrace with glass windows offered great views over Amman. I treated myself to Margarita and just loved how the waiter informed me that it will not take more than 7 minutes.

This was the perfect ending to 1-day Amman itinerary.

5. Where to Eat in Amman

Since the Neolithic period, previous Philadelphia and today’s Amman was a place of various civilizations. A place where influences are combined and mixed. From Northern African to Middle Eastern. From Mediterranean to Persian. All this is shown in the food tradition and dishes you can find in Amman.

If you are a foodie, there is a lot of Jordanian dishes waiting for you to try it. There are a lot of restaurants to try, but if you only have a day in Amman, those are the ones you should visit.

• HASHEM RESTAURANT
  📍Downtown
  The most famous and most well-known vegetarian restaurant in Downtown Amman. Their food is amazing and reasonably priced. Hashem restaurant Amman menu consists of traditional Jordanian dishes like falafel, hummus, mutabal, ful medames, and others. It has a great Jordanian feel and is always full of people.

• AL QUDS
  📍Downtown
  Arabic restaurant whose specialty is serving Jordanian specialty. Al Quds restaurant Amman menu is famous for the traditional Mansaf. The name for the restaurant comes from the Arabic word for Jerusalem “Al Quds”, thus the reason you will find pictures of Jerusalem inside the restaurant. It is located in Downtown Amman, close to Hashem Restaurant.

• HABIBA SWEETS
  📍Downtown
  Habiba Sweets is one of the oldest sweet shops in Amman. This restaurant is very well known for the knafeh. Knafeh or Kunafas is desert, kind of like baklava, made from filo pastry, nuts, sugar syrup and CHEESE. Lines in front of Habiba are always long but that is because they make the best Knafeh in the whole Jordan.
  
  I tried it twice, here and in Aqaba. To be honest, I didn’t like the taste of it. It was too sweet for my taste, plus I couldn’t figure it out how the cheese going into this.

• AL QUDS FALAFEL
  📍Rainbow street
  Al Quds Falafel is the most famous falafel food shop in Amman and on Rainbow Street. It is a small place, without an inside seating area. So the best way to have a falafel here is to follow the locals. Buy a sandwich and eat it in a public area around the shop. This is a popular falafel for locals, King included, and tourists.

• SAH EL NOM
  📍Rainbow street
  To experience true Jordanian breakfast have it at Sah El nom on Rainbow street. They serve the best Manakeesh. They have a nice outdoor seating area. The are open throughout the day, so later on they also add other baked goods to the menu as well as shawarma. They have a fast service and are always busy.

For the best experience join one of the Amman food tours. There is a reason why there are so many. If you are a foodie, you won’t regret it, especially because you will be exploiting the world of flavors with locals.

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6. Where to Sleep in Amman

Amman does not fall short when offering places to stay. Since you are only staying in Amman for a day, and spending a maximum of two nights here, I would recommend choosing centrally located accommodation.   

Booking.com offers a wide range of options, from budget backpackers accommodations to mid-range 3 and 4-star hotels and luxury 5 star hotels in Amman. Below you can find one of each, to make your selection easier. All of the listed hotels in Amman have a parking space.

Budget hotel | The Boutique Hotel Amman is located in Downtown Amman, only a short walk away from Roman Theatre and Amman Citadel. Their rooms have a simple furnishing but they offer free Wi-Fi and a free breakfast.

Mid-range 3 star hotel | New MerryLand Hotel is close to the city centre and within walking distance to Blue Mosque. Ther staff is extremely helpful and kind, rooms are modernly furnished and they have a delicious breakfast included in the room rate. 

Mid-range 4 star hotel | Khan Khediwe Hotel is centrally located in Amman Downtown. It is withing walking distance to Hashem restaurant, Roman Theatre and Citadel. Breakfast is not included in the room rate, but they have a fitness and some rooms offer a city view.

Luxury 5 star hotel | Grand Hyatt Amman offers luxurious rooms with stunning city views, rooms are modern and cozy. Here you will find a pool, fitness and a spa with steam rooms, baths and therapies after all the sightseeing. Historic center is a short taxi ride away.

For more hotel selections have a look at 5 star hotels in Amman or choose what you please on Booking.com.

How to spend one day in Amman, in a nutshell

This one day in Amman itinerary is a perfect introduction for a first-time visitor to Jordan, or if Amman is your last stop on your Jordan trip. (Personally, I would visit Amman at the beginning of the best Jordan itinerary.) An easy day, that won’t feel too rushed.

Now you know what to see in Amman in one day- In only 24 hours you will visit all the famous city sites, Amman Citadel and Roman Theatre, before heading off to more popular Jordan attractions, like Petra and Wadi Rum. You will also try your taste buds by dining in some of the best restaurants in Amman.

There isn’t too much I would suggest in terms of alterations for this self-made Amman city-tour. Maybe you can skip the Blue Mosque and give yourself more time to join one of the Amman food tours.

Now, that you know suggestions on what to do in Amman, where to eat, and where to stay, you are ready to craft your Amman day or follow the suggested itinerary.

Have a lovely 1 day in Amman,
Anja

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Anja On Adventure is a travel blog, a collection of insider tips and information on destinations, that I visited as a solo female traveler, tour guide, teacher, yacht stewardess, and Survivor challenge tester.

Anja, is a thirty-something adventure-seeking, sun chasing, beach hopping, gin-loving, tropics enthusiast with a creative mind and sarcastic spirit, who loves coconut and mango but doesn’t like chocolate and sweets. I am passionate about all things travel, maps, and puzzles. Click here to learn more About me.