With only one day in Amman, you’re best off exploring the city, though ambitious travelers could take a half-day tour out to the Dead Sea and return in the late afternoon to check out a few local attractions. If you wish to stay in town, start your day at the Jordan Museum, known for its myriad archaeological artifacts, including parts of the Dead Sea Scrolls. From here, head to the Amman Citadel, where you can get great city views, making sure to visit the on-site Archaeological Museum on your way.

Head to trendy Rainbow Street, known for its cute shops and ample cafés and restaurants. Stop for lunch here or grab a falafel sandwich to go before heading over to the city's ancient Roman Theater. From here, head over to one of the city's Turkish baths, or hamams, where you can spend the next couple of hours partaking of a traditional exfoliating and massage treatment. End your day with a stop at the King Abdullah I Mosque, known for its beautiful mosaic dome, or visit the Jordan Gallery of Fine Arts to check out an extensive collection of contemporary art from around the world.

Amman is full of hip cafés, swanky restaurants, and bars, and when it comes to drinking and partying, it's one of the more liberal, laid-back cities in the Middle East. Many of the city's upscale restaurants have small bars or clubs, though many travelers prefer to go straight to Rainbow Street, with its lively café scene; you’ll also find the bustling Souk Jara night market here if you come during the summer months. Alternatively, for something a bit calmer, book a romantic dinner at one of the many upscale restaurants in the city.