A visit to Jordan often begins with a landing at Amman's international airport. When planning your Jordan adventure, a key question arises: should you explore the city of Amman itself?

Amman's significance during your travels largely depends on your style and the duration of your stay. It could be the central point of your journey, a place for a brief overnight stay, or an option to skip, particularly if you'd rather base yourself in nearby Madaba for independent exploration.

Is Amman worth a visit? The answer is yes, especially if you have an appreciation for art, culture, and the vibrancy of new cities within ancient lands. To assist you in making an informed decision and to enhance your experience, we present 16 Things To Know Before You Visit Amman.

Visit in Spring or Autumn

Amman enjoys a more moderate climate than southern Jordan due to its elevated location (700 meters above sea level). Spring (March to May) and early autumn (September to mid-November) are the best times to visit to avoid extreme heat. It's advisable to explore during the mornings or late afternoons, leaving the hottest hours for relaxation in galleries or cafes.

Taxi or Bus from the Airport

Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA) is the primary gateway to Jordan, situated about 35 kilometers from Amman. No public transport connects the airport and the city, so you'll need to arrange a private transfer, take an official taxi, or use the Express bus.

Dress Modestly

While parts of Amman have a more liberal atmosphere, modest dressing is still recommended, especially for women covering their shoulders, chest, and legs. Headscarves are not required for non-Muslim women in Jordan.

Two Days in Amman

For a comprehensive Amman experience, plan for at least two full days. With less time, you can condense highlights into a single day.

Stay Downtown

Downtown Amman is the most convenient area for a short visit, with proximity to major attractions. While accommodation options in this area may not be luxurious, there are some decent hotels and hostels.

The Call to Prayer

Be prepared for the call to prayer, a quintessential part of the soundscape of Amman. It can be heard five times a day from local mosques and is integral to the culture. If you're a light sleeper, consider bringing earplugs.

Buy the Jordan Pass Before You Arrive

The Jordan Pass offers savings for travelers by waiving visa fees and granting entry to numerous attractions. It's beneficial for visiting Amman, saving you around 9 JD in entry fees.

Getting Around Amman

Amman is best explored on foot with occasional taxi rides. The city's hilly terrain can make walking a bit challenging, but it's still the ideal way to discover the city. Taxis are a convenient option for hilly routes and longer distances.

Safety in Amman

Amman generally feels safe for travelers. While a few scams and overpriced services may be encountered, overall, the city welcomes visitors.

Look Up for Restaurants & Cafes

This area is home to a plethora of eateries and shisha bars, many of which are perched on terraces above street-level shops. These hidden gems remain concealed until you're on the opposite side of the street, tilting your head upward. It can even give the initial impression that there are no restaurants at all until this delightful revelation unfolds.

Furthermore, you won't grasp their ambiance until you venture inside and ascend a few flights of stairs.

Money & ATMs

Finding an ATM that doesn't charge for foreign card withdrawals can be difficult. Cash is essential for taxis, markets, and small purchases, so be prepared to have some Jordanian Dinar on hand. A good option is Bank Al-Etihad for currency exchange.