Amman

Code:AM
Type:governorate
Native name:Amman Governorate
Population:4M (2015)
Area:7,579 km²
Capital:Amman

Introduction

Amman Governorate is the most populous and politically central of Jordan's twelve governorates, built around the capital city, with the surrounding countryside serving mainly as the jumping-off point for day trips to other governorates.

Overview

Amman Governorate's visitor experience is the capital itself — the Citadel, Roman Theatre, Jordan Museum, and the contemporary Rainbow Street and Abdoun districts. The governorate's other genuine role is logistical: Queen Alia International Airport is Jordan's main entry point, and Amman is the hub from which day trips to Jerash, the Dead Sea, As-Salt, and the eastern Desert Castles typically begin and end.

Discover Amman

Amman is Jordan's political, commercial and cultural capital — the Citadel and Roman Theatre at its historic core, west Amman's Rainbow Street and Abdoun districts, and the Jordan Museum's Dead Sea Scrolls copper scroll and 'Ain Ghazal plaster statues from 6500 BCE.

Ways to Experience This Destination

Capital City

Amman's Citadel, Roman Theatre and Jordan Museum, at the historic heart of the capital.

Day-Trip Hub

The base for Jerash, the Dead Sea, As-Salt and the Desert Castles circuit, all within a 90-minute drive.

Amman Governorate Travel Information

Queen Alia International Airport is 30 km south of Amman city centre. Taxis to the city cost approximately JOD 20-25; the Airport Express Bus (JOD 3.25) runs regularly to Abdali bus terminal.
Amman taxis: always insist the driver uses the meter (argue firmly if necessary); meters are cheaper than any negotiated price for most journeys. Ride-hailing apps (Careem, Uber) are also available.
Friday is the holy day in Jordan. Downtown Amman is quieter on Fridays; most government offices and many shops are closed. Tourist sites usually open but with shorter hours.

Cities in Amman