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Best Times to Visit Amman, Jordan

Amman, Jordan travel destination - best times to visit
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Quick Answer:

The most captivating time to experience Amman, Jordan, is during the pleasant months of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Imagine strolling through ancient ruins under a gentle sun, the air crisp and inviting, perfect for exploring the Citadel's panoramic views. During spring, wildflowers paint the hillsides, and the city hums with a renewed energy, while autumn offers warm, golden sunsets that cast a captivating glow over the bustling souks. These seasons provide a comfortable climate for immersing yourself in the vibrant culture and delicious cuisine without the intense heat of summer.

Best Months to Visit:

MarAprMayOctNov

Airport Code

AMM

Coordinates

31.95°, 35.91°

Top Things to Do

Sunset Over the Citadel

Ascend to the Amman Citadel as the day cools and the city lights begin to twinkle below. Witness the ancient Roman Temple of Hercules stand silhouetted against a sky painted in hues of orange and purple, offering a truly magical perspective on the sprawling capital.

Culinary Journey Through Rainbow Street

Embark on a gastronomic adventure along Rainbow Street, a vibrant hub buzzing with local life. Sample traditional Jordanian mezze at a bustling restaurant, then indulge in sweet kunafa from a popular dessert shop, letting the aromas and flavors guide your exploration.

Wander Through Jabal Al Weibdeh's Art Galleries

Discover Amman's burgeoning art scene in the charming neighborhood of Jabal Al Weibdeh. Duck into independent galleries showcasing contemporary Jordanian artists, and perhaps stumble upon a hidden courtyard cafe for a refreshing mint tea.

Explore the Roman Theatre at Dawn

Experience the grandeur of the ancient Roman Theatre without the crowds by visiting shortly after sunrise. Imagine the roar of the spectators as you sit on the stone steps, bathed in the soft morning light, with the city slowly awakening around you.

See all 8 things to do →

💡 Travel Tip: For the best value on hotels during this season, check current rates on Trip.com.

Essential Travel Tips

culture

Embrace the Jordanian hospitality, but know that 'bukra' (tomorrow) can sometimes mean 'not today'. If you're invited for tea or coffee, accept! It's a genuine gesture of welcome. Just don't be surprised if plans are a little fluid; it's part of the charm.

money

While credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and restaurants, cash is king for smaller shops, taxis, and street food. Exchange some money at the airport upon arrival for convenience, but you'll likely get better rates at exchange bureaus in downtown Amman. Look for 'Exchange' signs.

transport

Taxis are plentiful and affordable, but always agree on a fare *before* you get in, or insist on using the meter. For longer distances or day trips, consider hiring a driver for the day through your hotel or a reputable local agency. It's surprisingly cost-effective and much more comfortable than public transport.

food

Don't leave Amman without trying Mansaf, the national dish of lamb cooked in a fermented dried yogurt sauce, served with rice. For an authentic experience, head to Hashem Restaurant in downtown Amman – it's a local institution and incredibly delicious. Order a selection of mezze too!

safety

Amman is generally a very safe city, but like anywhere, be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded markets like Souk Jara. Keep your valuables secure and avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas late at night. Stick to well-trafficked streets.

packing

Pack modest clothing out of respect for local customs, especially if you plan to visit religious sites. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are best for the heat, but include a light jacket or scarf for cooler evenings, particularly outside of summer. Shoulders and knees should generally be covered.

💡 Travel Tip: If you're planning your trip, it's worth checking flight prices on Trip.com before you decide.

Weather Details

Jan
10 days
Feb
9 days
Mar
7 days
Apr
4 days
May
1 day
Jun
0 days
Jul
0 days
Aug
0 days
Sep
1 day
Oct
3 days
Nov
5 days
Dec
8 days

Monthly Weather Data Table

MonthHigh (°C)Low (°C)High (°F)Low (°F)Rainfall (mm)Rain DaysDaylight (h)
Jan12°C3°C54°F37°F60mm
10 days
10.5h
Feb14°C4°C57°F39°F50mm
9 days
11h
Mar18°C7°C64°F45°F40mm
7 days
12h
Apr23°C10°C73°F50°F20mm
4 days
13h
May28°C14°C82°F57°F5mm
1 day
14h
Jun31°C17°C88°F63°F0mm
0 days
14h
Jul33°C19°C91°F66°F0mm
0 days
14h
Aug33°C19°C91°F66°F0mm
0 days
13.5h
Sep30°C17°C86°F63°F2mm
1 day
12.5h
Oct26°C13°C79°F55°F20mm
3 days
11.5h
Nov19°C8°C66°F46°F30mm
5 days
10.5h
Dec14°C5°C57°F41°F50mm
8 days
10h

All Things to Do in Amman, Jordan

Sunset Over the Citadel

attraction

Ascend to the Amman Citadel as the day cools and the city lights begin to twinkle below. Witness the ancient Roman Temple of Hercules stand silhouetted against a sky painted in hues of orange and purple, offering a truly magical perspective on the sprawling capital.

Best time: Apr-Oct

Culinary Journey Through Rainbow Street

food

Embark on a gastronomic adventure along Rainbow Street, a vibrant hub buzzing with local life. Sample traditional Jordanian mezze at a bustling restaurant, then indulge in sweet kunafa from a popular dessert shop, letting the aromas and flavors guide your exploration.

Best time: Year-round

Wander Through Jabal Al Weibdeh's Art Galleries

cultural

Discover Amman's burgeoning art scene in the charming neighborhood of Jabal Al Weibdeh. Duck into independent galleries showcasing contemporary Jordanian artists, and perhaps stumble upon a hidden courtyard cafe for a refreshing mint tea.

Best time: Year-round

Explore the Roman Theatre at Dawn

attraction

Experience the grandeur of the ancient Roman Theatre without the crowds by visiting shortly after sunrise. Imagine the roar of the spectators as you sit on the stone steps, bathed in the soft morning light, with the city slowly awakening around you.

Best time: Mar-Nov

Hike to the King Abdullah I Mosque's Dome

activity

For a unique vantage point, find a rooftop cafe or apartment with a clear view of the King Abdullah I Mosque. Enjoy a leisurely coffee or shisha while admiring the striking blue dome, especially beautiful during the call to prayer.

Best time: Year-round

Souvenir Hunting in the Old City Souks

shopping

Lose yourself in the labyrinthine alleys of the downtown souks, a sensory overload of spices, textiles, and handcrafted goods. Haggle for intricate silver jewelry, colorful mosaic art, or fragrant local soaps, and don't forget to try some freshly squeezed pomegranate juice.

Best time: Year-round

A Taste of Bedouin Hospitality in Wadi Rum (Day Trip)

activity

While technically outside Amman, a day trip to Wadi Rum offers an unforgettable glimpse into Jordan's desert soul. Arrange a jeep tour through the dramatic sandstone mountains and enjoy a traditional zarb (underground cooked meal) with a Bedouin family, experiencing their legendary hospitality.

Best time: Mar-May, Sep-Nov

Evening Jazz at a Hidden Speakeasy

activity

Seek out one of Amman's discreet speakeasy bars for a sophisticated evening. Enjoy live jazz music and expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate setting, a perfect contrast to the city's bustling daytime energy.

Best time: Year-round

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GoWithGuide Tours and Experiences

Getting Around Amman, Jordan

Careem / Uber

These ride-sharing apps are the most convenient and widely used way to get around Amman, especially for tourists. They offer a reliable service for getting to specific locations, navigating traffic, and ensuring fair pricing.

Cost:Varies by distance and time, but generally affordable. A typical ride across the city might cost between 3-7 JOD.
Tip:Download both apps as sometimes one might have better availability or pricing. Always confirm the driver and car details match the app. Avoid hailing random cars from the street, as you might overpay or encounter safety issues. Drivers are generally friendly and happy to chat, but be mindful of prayer times which can affect availability.

Local Taxis (White Cars)

The ubiquitous white taxis are a classic Amman experience and can be a budget-friendly option if used correctly. They are readily available throughout the city and can be hailed from the street.

Cost:Metered fares are standard, but always insist the driver uses the meter. Expect to pay around 2-5 JOD for most city trips. Agree on a price beforehand if the meter is not working or if going to a less common destination.
Tip:The biggest mistake is not insisting on the meter. If a driver refuses, politely decline and find another. Have small denominations of Jordanian Dinar (JOD) ready for payment. Some drivers may not speak much English, so having your destination written down in Arabic or on a map can be very helpful.

JETT Buses

JETT (Jordan Express Tourist Transport) operates a network of comfortable, air-conditioned buses connecting Amman to major cities and tourist sites across Jordan. They are a great option for day trips or inter-city travel.

Cost:Fares vary by destination. A round trip to Petra can cost around 20-25 JOD, while a trip to the Dead Sea might be 10-15 JOD.
Tip:Book tickets in advance, especially for popular routes or during peak season, either online via their website or at the JETT bus station. Arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before departure. These buses are generally punctual, so don't be late.

Local Minibuses (Service Taxis)

These are the most economical way to travel within Amman, used by locals for daily commutes. They follow fixed routes but can be a bit chaotic and intimidating for first-time visitors.

Cost:Extremely cheap, usually 0.50-1 JOD per ride, depending on the route.
Tip:The biggest challenge is figuring out the routes and where to board. Look for signs indicating the destination or ask locals. You'll likely need to know the general direction or a landmark. To get off, shout 'نزلة!' (nazleh - meaning 'down' or 'stop') or 'قف!' (qaf - meaning 'stop'). Be prepared for a crowded and fast ride.

Walking

While Amman is hilly, exploring certain neighborhoods on foot is highly rewarding. Areas like Rainbow Street, downtown (Al-Balad), and Jabal Amman offer charming streets, local shops, and cafes best discovered at a leisurely pace.

Cost:Free!
Tip:Wear comfortable shoes as Amman has many steep inclines and declines. Be aware of traffic, especially when crossing streets, as pedestrian crossings aren't always respected. It's a great way to stumble upon hidden gems and interact with locals, but avoid walking alone late at night in less populated areas.

💡 Travel Tip: This season usually means better deals — check what's available on Trip.com.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is the absolute best time to visit Amman, and what should I pack for it?

For me, the sweet spot for Amman is spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). The weather is pleasantly mild, perfect for exploring the Citadel and Roman Theatre without overheating. Pack layers, as evenings can still get a bit cool, and comfortable walking shoes are an absolute must – those hills are no joke!

How do I navigate Amman like a local, and what's the deal with taxis?

Honestly, the best way to get a feel for Amman is to embrace the chaos and use ride-sharing apps like Uber or Careem; they're incredibly affordable and reliable, and you won't have to haggle over fares. If you do hail a taxi, always agree on the price *before* you get in, or insist they use the meter – though many drivers prefer a set price for longer journeys.

What are some essential cultural customs I should be aware of in Amman?

Jordanians are incredibly hospitable, and a simple 'As-salamu alaykum' (peace be upon you) goes a long way. When invited into someone's home, it's customary to accept, and bringing a small gift like pastries or dates is a thoughtful gesture. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites – shoulders and knees should be covered for both men and women.

Beyond the main sights, are there any 'hidden gem' neighborhoods or experiences in Amman?

Absolutely! Wander through the vibrant streets of Jabal Weibdeh; it's Amman's bohemian heart, filled with art galleries, independent boutiques, and charming cafes perfect for people-watching. Don't miss the Royal Automobile Museum either – it's surprisingly fascinating, even if you're not a car enthusiast, showcasing a stunning collection from the late King Hussein's era.

What's the best way to experience authentic Jordanian food, and are there any must-try dishes?

Forget the hotel buffets; dive into local eateries! For a truly authentic experience, seek out places serving Mansaf, the national dish of lamb cooked in a fermented yogurt sauce, served over rice – it's a labor of love and incredibly delicious. Also, don't leave without trying Kunafa, a heavenly cheese pastry soaked in sweet syrup, especially from a place like Habibah Sweets.

Is Amman safe for solo female travelers, and what practical advice do you have?

I've traveled solo in Amman many times and always felt very safe. Jordanians are generally respectful and helpful, but like anywhere, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings. Stick to well-lit areas at night, dress modestly to avoid unwanted attention, and don't hesitate to ask for help if you need it – you'll likely find people eager to assist.

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