Place Plumereau is a bustling Tours city square that comes alive in the evenings, when students flock to it and restaurants start getting filled with people. Dining options abound in and around the area.

One of Amman's most entertaining attractions is the Royal Automobile Museum, mostly containing (nearly a hundred!) vehicles from the collection of late King Hussein of Jordan. Models spanning the second half of the 20th century make for an interesting look around, the latest hit addition being the very vehicle used in the filming of acclaimed "The Martian".

The Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts offers a refreshing counterpoint to Amman’s ancient ruins. It showcases contemporary works from across the Islamic world in two airy buildings that flank a sculpture-dotted park. Founded in 1980 under royal patronage, its collection spans 2,000 pieces: from provocative Palestinian installations to delicate Sudanese weavings. Be sure to check the rotating exhibitions in Building 1. Building 2 anchors the experience. Start at the ground-floor, then work your way up through bold Jordanian abstracts before rewarding yourself at the top-floor café. Its terrace overlooks Jabal al-Luweibdeh’s artsy rooftops, perfect for reflecting over mint tea after browsing the art library’s curated books. Free from crowds (and mercifully air-conditioned), it’s where Amman’s creative pulse feels most immediate.

Except for the greenhouses and lush greenery in the summer months, this Botanical Garden also houses a mini-zoo (which will surely delight the little ones), as well as many picnic-perfect areas.