Half-Day Amman City Tour: Citadel, Roman Theater & Souq Walk

Summary

Discover Amman’s Ancient Sites and Bustling Downtown

You’ll get to see Amman through local eyes—from ancient ruins at the Citadel to lively souqs where daily life hums along. This tour is easygoing but packed with real moments: history you can touch, flavors you can try, and stories you’ll remember long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

The day started with our driver picking us up right at the hotel entrance—no waiting around in the morning heat. Driving through Amman’s busy streets, you catch glimpses of old stone houses mixed with modern shops. Our first stop was the Citadel, perched high on Jabal al-Qalaa. The air up there felt cooler, and you could see almost all of downtown spread out below. Our guide pointed out the Temple of Hercules ruins—huge columns that somehow survived centuries of wind and sun. There’s something quiet about this spot, even with other visitors around; you can hear the call to prayer drifting up from below.

Next, we wandered into the Jordan Archaeological Museum. It’s not huge, but it packs in some real treasures—like fragments of the Dead Sea Scrolls behind glass. I never realized how small and fragile they look up close. After that, we walked down toward the Roman Theater. It’s massive—6,000 seats carved right into the hillside—and locals still use it for concerts sometimes. You can climb up the stone steps (they’re steeper than they look) for a different view of the city.

Before heading back, we strolled through Amman’s souq area. The smell of fresh bread from a tiny bakery mixed with spices from nearby stalls. Shopkeepers called out friendly greetings in Arabic and English; one offered us a taste of pickled olives straight from his barrel. It felt like a slice of everyday life here—nothing staged or touristy about it. Then our driver dropped us off back at the hotel, just as traffic started to pick up for lunch hour.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Amman City Highlights

• Visit Amman Citadel
• Explore Roman Theater
• Tour Archaeological Museum
• Stroll through Souq

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for families with young children?

Yes, families are welcome! Strollers are fine in most areas, and infant seats are available if needed.

How much walking is involved?

There’s some walking at each site—mostly paved paths or stone steps—but nothing too strenuous for most fitness levels.

Will there be time to shop or buy snacks at the souq?

You’ll have a little time to browse or grab a quick snack during our walk through the souq area.

Is an English-speaking guide included?

Your driver speaks English and will share info along the way; official guides may be available on request.

What’s included

This tour includes private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle with free Wi-Fi onboard. An English-speaking driver will be with you throughout your visit to Amman’s top sites: the Citadel, Roman Theater, Archaeological Museum, plus a stroll through downtown souqs. Infant seats are available if needed—just let us know ahead of time!