Stretching along the serene backwaters, this waterfront boulevard is not just a spot for leisurely strolls but also a hub of local life and activity. The Rainbow Bridge, with its stunning arching design, is a highlight, especially when illuminated at night. Along the way, visitors can explore a variety of shops, cafés, and street food stalls offering local delicacies. For a unique experience, hop on a sunset cruise to witness the breathtaking views of the Kochi skyline and the tranquil waters merging into the horizon.

The Cave of the Seven Sleepers in ar-Rajib village ties Islamic tradition to physical geography. According to the Quran, devout youths fleeing Roman persecution around AD 250 took refuge here, awakening 309 lunar years later in a testament to divine protection. The site, rediscovered in 1951, now includes a mosque built above the cavern, where an imam often explains the story’s theological importance. Visitors enter through the mosque (head cover required for women) to see the rock-hewn cave and adjacent Byzantine-era tombs. Unlike ornate shrines, the site’s power lies in its simplicity: the low-ceilinged grotto and quiet courtyard encourage reflection. While Jordan isn’t the only country claiming this legend (others exist in Turkey and Syria), the presence of 3rd-century Christian graves lends archaeological weight.

The so-called Temple of Hercules (AD 162–166) dominates Amman’s Citadel. These days, archaeologists prefer to call it the Great Temple of Amman, since its dedication remains uncertain. Only six Corinthian columns stand reconstructed today. The rest lie as fragmented drums, their dowel holes revealing Roman engineering techniques. A colossal marble statue once graced the site. All that survives is a weathered elbow and fingers, suggesting a figure over 13 metres tall, likely toppled in the 8th-century earthquake. The temple’s platform doubles as Amman’s premier viewpoint, framing the modern city against the 150-metre Jordanian flag. Excavations nearby expose layers of civilisation: Umayyad palaces, Byzantine churches, and Roman baths intertwine with older Bronze Age ruins. Though the Hercules name persists thanks to the sculptural remnant, archaeologists emphasise the temple’s civic importance. Its sheer scale reflects Amman’s status as a regional hub. Guides prove invaluable for deciphering 9,000 years of history compressed into a single hilltop.

The DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum houses an impressive collection of 18th- and 19th-century furniture, ceramics, silver, and paintings from Britain and America. It’s a great place to see how design and craftsmanship evolved over time. The museum also hosts lectures, musical performances, and rotating exhibits.