The Ultimate Amman Travel Guide

The Ultimate Amman Travel Guide

An Insider’s Guide to Amman’s Hidden Gems

 

The Ultimate Amman Travel Guide

 

‘Time stands still,

remnants of history and civilization

travel with the breeze;

the molten sands of the desert

whisper the secrets of a bygone era

Unabashed we revel

like two bedazzled lovers.’

 

The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan has been steeped in turbulence since time immemorial. The history of the country is woven into its fabric and the people living there and is tangible the moment you step into the country. A visit to Jordan will change all doubts regarding the safety of the place because amid the turmoil is a place that will enthrall its visitors with its monuments, landscape, faith, and distant past.

When I recently visited the country with my husband, Vikram, as a guest of the Jordan Tourism Board ~ I discovered the welcoming friendliness of the locals and was provided with an opportunity to enjoy the sights and sounds this diverse country has to offer. The antiquity, civilization, sacred religious sites, unending stretches of desert, walking trails, art scene, bustling markets, and architectural marvels ~ gave us a glimpse of its soul. We ended up soaking in the magic of the place, and Jordan goes down on our list as one of the most beautiful places that should be visited by any traveller.

 

Vikram and I decided to begin our journey from the capital city, Amman. To be honest we were unprepared for the experience the metropolis had to offer. The city is peppered with remnants of its historical events leftover from bygone eras that rise and fall like waves across human history. We came back besotted with the beauty of the place and loaded with a flurry of enchanting memories ranging from its landmarks, tourist spots, art galleries, and cuisine.

 

Starting with Jordan’s Capital, Amman ~ Let the Adventure Begin!

Amman with its diverse culture, and fascinating blend of time-honored and monochromatic cityscapes to the most vibrant and contemporary buildings adding on to its charm, is a sprawling city built on seven hills. Its colourful flavours and welcoming atmosphere ~ with art galleries, souks, and cafes ~ wraps you up into the most inviting and introspective journey, helping you experience the hidden treasures of the city.

A true tourist destination for any discerning traveller, there are numerous things to keep you busy in Amman {before travelling to the other famous sites of Jordan}. My advice: take a couple of days to discover what this charming city has to offer. Below is my list of the top ten things I would recommend you to do.

 

The Ultimate Amman Travel Guide: My Top Ten

1. Visit the Citadel. Located at the centre of downtown Amman, on the city’s highest hill Jebel al-Qalia, this historical site is where you can enjoy a gorgeous sunset from the most peaceful location. My favourite areas here were the remains of the architecture of the Roman civilisation at the legendary Temple of Hercules, remnants of the Byzantine Empire at the church ruins, and the magnificent Umayyad Palace welcome hall. Also, some of the best views of Amman can be got from the vantage point of the Citadel.

The Ultimate Amman Travel Guide

The Ultimate Amman Travel Guide

The Ultimate Amman Travel Guide

 

2. Downhill from the Citadel is the striking Roman Amphitheatre, which dates back to the Roman period when the city was known as ‘Philadelphia’, translating to ‘brotherly love’ in Greek. The theatre has been restored and has a seating capacity of 6000, and is a spot where locals like to spend their time. Visit and watch kids playing soccer, friends chatting over Turkish coffee, and local families simply appreciating the scene.

The Ultimate Amman Travel Guide

The Ultimate Amman Travel Guide

The Ultimate Amman Travel Guide

 

3. Another important landmark that is impressive and not to be missed, is the blue-domed King Abdullah Mosque which is open to non-Muslims too. The cerulean blue dome of the Mosque can be seen miles across the city and showcases the distinctive Islamic architecture. It sits right in front of a Catholic church for a study in contrasts.

The Ultimate Amman Travel Guide

 

4. Al-Balad is considered the heart of Amman and is the old downtown where you can better appreciate the pulse of the city and its people. The souks, shops, and eateries here have an energy that resonates with the warmth and hospitality of the Jordanians. You can lose your time meandering through the winding streets and picking up souvenirs like ceramics, colourful traditional clothing, and Dead Sea products to take back home. This is also the place to buy spices and delicious Medjool dates.

The Ultimate Amman Travel Guide

The Ultimate Amman Travel Guide

 

5. I would also recommend taking some time off and heading to Jabal Al Weibdeh. This place is reminiscent of Amman’s glorious days, and is said to be steeped in culture, and is home to many aristocratic families. The streets, outlandish eateries, boutiques, galleries, and villas make it hip and bohemian. Relax at one of the many cafes and watch the colours of life unfold before your eyes.

6. Touring the art galleries is a must-do to step into the rich history of Jordan. Darat-al-Funun exhibits the works of contemporary Arab and Jordanian artists and will delight with its wide collection, gardens, and peaceful café with beautiful views of Amman.

7. As Jordan steps towards modernisation and urbanisation, walk the Abdali Boulevard to soak in the cosmopolitan façade of Amman. The pedestrian strip is a good example of Amman’s modernity and development. The contemporary architecture, modern cafés, food kiosks, duty-free shops, and malls complete the ‘new’ experience of Amman.

8. Indulge your taste buds in falafels, hummus, and shawarma. The Turkish family-run Hashem is a good stop to savour the culinary flavours of Jordan {Bilad al-Sham cuisine}. Wander downtown Amman to one of the six main streets, Prince Mohammed Street ~ which will cater to all your whims and fancies with its cafes showcasing colourful outdoor sitting areas, to trinket shops offering handmade goods.

9. Brush up your culinary skills by learning to cook Arabic food in a homely ambience at Beiti Sitte in Weibdeh, and return home with mouthwatering recipes of hummus, fattoush, and other dishes from the Jordanian cuisine.

10. A trip to Amman is incomplete without experiencing the Shisha. All cafes located in Rainbow Street and Al Weidbeh will give you that unforgettable-smoking-Shisha moment. My favourite was at Rakwet Arab in Weibdeh.

 

The Ultimate Amman Travel Guide: Haunts

There are several sophisticated joints to frequent in the city; I am listing a few that I found ritzy and rakish.

  • FANN WA CHAI ~ Complex No 25, Kullyet Al Sharea St 25
    This is a tasteful place with an artsy milieu where many flavoured teas are served. I loved the setup and found it to be an ideal spot to work and have meaningful conversations with friends over a cuppa tea and sandwiches.
  • JADAL FOR KNOWLEDGE & CULTURE ~ Downtown, King Hussein’s street, Al Kalha stairs house number 5
    With its tranquil atmosphere amidst the hustle and bustle of the city, Jadal is more of a community place or “Anti Café” if you will, where you can meet people from different walks of life and bond over cups of unlimited tea and coffee, and free wifi.
  • RUMI CAFE ~ Kulliyat Al Shareaa Street 14, Jabal Al Weibdeh
    A swanky bar located in the ex-pat area of Weibdeh, Rumi Café has the perfect outdoor seating to soak in the city vibes. It is mostly frequented by youngsters and ex-pats and is the place to meet and make new friends. Everything served here is unique; be it their coffee, cakes, or tea.
  • RAKWET ARAB CAFE ~ 4 Al Baouniyah Street
    This well-curated trendy restaurant has a beautifully calming atmosphere making it a great place to eat, drink and smoke Shisha. The traditional décor is tasteful taking you back in time to the Arabian days and culture, and having a meal here will not disappoint you as they serve good portions.
  • SHAMS AL BALAD ~ Jabal Amman
    This one goes into my favourites because of the organic food served at reasonable rates. The terrace gives a lovely view of the surroundings and the Citadel, making it a great spot for a juice and a snack while people-watching. This cosy café is also connected to a boutique that sells souvenirs and local arts & crafts products.
  • ZAIZAFOUN ~ Daraj Al Kalha
    Amid the throngs of the city, this café is such a hidden jewel in Amman! The artist couple who run the place have lent their aesthetic eye on all areas of the café. Located in one of the alleyways, discovering this gem was really worth it, and it was the right place to take a break after a busy day in the city.

 

The Ultimate Amman Travel Guide: Flavours of Jordan’s Culinary Delights

HASHEM ~ Al-Amir Mohammed St, Downtown

This place is an institution! Renowned for being the best place for your falafel lunch, the fare is authentic, and though a small eatery, it is one of the most popular eating joints serving the best hummus I’ve had! There are such a large number of restaurants in Amman as you stroll around but while you’re downtown, set aside time to search this place out. Oh, and try their mint tea too.

The Ultimate Amman Travel Guide

 

HABIBAH KNAFEH SWEETS ~ Al Hazar St 2, Marwan Madi Complex

Kanafeh, the speciality dish here, is a crispy and cheesy dessert that will satiate your sweet cravings. Envision revelling into layers of delicate baked pastry crumbs sitting over incredibly soft and airy cheese, all cooked in the oven and canvassed in syrup and pistachios on top! Slurp!

The Ultimate Amman Travel Guide

The Ultimate Amman Travel Guide

 

SUFRA ~ Al Rainbow St 26

A little trendy road that has an amazing atmosphere and great setting, housing numerous shops and restaurants. I loved looking at the Ottoman architecture alongside the colourful graffiti on Rainbow Street. Sufra is, in fact, an old house that has been converted into a restaurant making it more personalised. And I can vouch for their dish Mansaf; a Jordanian speciality made of rice, lamb, and yogurt. Yum!

The Ultimate Amman Travel Guide

The Ultimate Amman Travel Guide

 

Best Day-trips from Amman

Amman in Jordan is usually a traveller’s starting point before they visit the most talked-about nearby tourist spots ~ Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea. To reiterate, I hope you take at least a couple of days to explore what the city has to offer.

PETRA

This city of monuments, tombs, and sacred structures will leave you awe-struck with its magnificence! It’s no wonder that movies such as Transformers and Indian Jones have used Petra for filming locations.

Derived from the Greek word ‘Petros’ which means ‘rocks’, the ancient city of Petra is also known by the name ‘The Rose City’ because of the colour of the sandstone out of which it has been carved. The entrance to the city is through a 2 km narrow gorge, and at the end of the Siq is the Al-Khazneh Treasury which will literally take your breath away!

Points to note: Mid-morning will be ideal to click pictures as the sunlight enhances the natural beauty of the place. Motor vehicles are not allowed into the site, but you can always hire a horse, camel, or mule from a local Bedouin and get a different experience of seeing the place. Do not miss out on the Monastery which is one of the largest monuments in Petra and gives an elaborate view bridging the gap between reality and surrealism!

You may read more about my experience in Petra here.

The Ultimate Amman Travel Guide

The Ultimate Amman Travel Guide

 

WADI RUM

Exploring and experiencing the Wadi Rum is extraordinary, and it is magical to see the endless stretches of red sand and dunes painting the landscape dotting them with camels roaming freely. The beauty of the place has been captured in the celluloid frames of ‘The Martian’ and ‘Lawrence of Arabia’.

Points to note: The best way to enjoy the sights and sounds of this desert valley is by spending a night in a Bedouin camp. We took a jeep tour into the interiors and witnessed one of the most beautiful sunsets; where the sun uniting with the red sand and filling the desert with crimson and scarlet was exquisitely gorgeous.

The one night in the camp with the night sky, moon, stars, dunes, shadows, singing, and the Bedouin food cooked in the earth will blow your mind away!

You may read more about my experience in Wadi Rum here.

The Ultimate Amman Travel Guide

The Ultimate Amman Travel Guide

 

THE DEAD SEA

The Dead Sea ~ the lowest point on earth ~ is a 45-minute drive from Amman. The area provides you with the unique experience of floating in waters rich in minerals and salt. Words fail to explain this once-in-a-lifetime experience Vikram and I had. Additionally, have a mud bath; the hydrating, beautifying, purgative, and relieving properties will rejuvenate your body.

Points to note: You will need to book into a hotel to access the Dead Sea. They will charge you a daily fee, and apart from accessing the waters, you will be given access to their facilities as well.

You may read more about my experience in The Dead Sea here.

The Ultimate Amman Travel Guide

The Ultimate Amman Travel Guide

 

Side note: Visiting these places will leave you wanting for more adventure, and there are more intriguing and splendid places to discover in this beautiful land if you have the time to get under its skin to find out its hidden treasures.

 

Tips To Keep In Mind Before You Travel

  • Although Amman is a city of contrasts, a unique blend of old and new; there is still an expectation, especially as a woman traveller, that you should be covered fully from your neck to your ankles. I would also advise you to avoid public physical contact with your partner.
  • Today, the town of Amman is spread over at least 20 hills and is difficult to get around just by foot. Carry local currency in cash; in case you are tired of walking and want to take a cab, it will come in handy.
  • Bargain while picking up trinkets at the souks, unless of course, the price is written on the product.
  • And last but not least ~ it is a slower-paced culture and being early isn’t the norm. Anticipate and accept this before you visit, and just relax into this patient and vibrant culture.

To conclude: With a rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and excellent eco-adventures ~ Jordan makes for a magnificent Middle East vacation destination. If you are looking for something different in your travels this year, be sure to give Jordan a try.

 

The Ultimate Amman Travel Guide

Visit Jordan has all the details on what to see, where to go, and what to do; a trip to this mesmerising country will not disappoint you!

 

Disclaimer: This review was done on an invitation from the Jordan Tourism Board. Due judgment and care have been applied by the author to remain objective and unbiased in the review.

Our stay in Amman was hosted by Fairmont Hotels and Resorts.

Disclaimer: The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Urban Diaries.

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* I love bringing together a bunch of conflicting items and weaving my own sense of one-ness to them. *

56 Comments

  • Wow, what an incredible place Jordan is! You’ve so beautifully described all that you’ve experienced on this trip, Tanya. Thank you for taking us on your journey to discover the best of what Amman has to offer from history to it’s unique culture! Definitely on my bucket list now!

    • It’s a country that truly captured my heart. And among all the things to do in Amman, trying Jordanian food is the best. It would be no exaggeration to say that the highlight of your complete trip is going to be the food. 🙂

  • Amman is such a wonderful and impressive place full of history ~ definitely on my bucket list! Jordan must have been a special country to visit… Your blog helped me persuade my spouse that it is a safe place for us to travel to. Thank you for sharing.

    • I’m glad you can agree that it is safe, Ayesha. I receive messages asking sometimes, as though they don’t trust me! Haha!!

  • One epic travel this was. ❤️ You both have clearly enjoyed visiting Amman, and your pictures and videos are so raw and fun ~ a complete departure from your usual style. I too love to travel, and the experience you’ve shared will help when I visit Jordan.

  • “Little girls with dreams become women with vision.” I adore your interpretation of this trip ~ the photographs are completely such a fun take on this beautiful city!

  • Awesome post, Tanya! Always intriguing to read your viewpoint on travel; haven’t been to Jordan yet but it would seem that there is unique, understated beauty to be discovered. The country has now earned a place on my must-travel-to list!

  • Always exciting to see more people travel to the Middle East! The creative scene in Amman has no doubt left you impressed. I haven’t been to Jordan yet but I’m hoping to combine it with my next trip to Egypt in 2019.

  • Exploring a different country with different cultures, foods and traditions is one of life’s greatest pleasures! Love this blog, Tanya and happy it has reaffirmed that Jordan should definitely be on my bucket list! Thanks for sharing and glad to see you had a great and hospitable visit! ❤️

  • Envious of how many countries you’ve had the pleasure of visiting, Tanya. I have only managed three, but I feel like my world has really opened up!

    I especially loved your Insta story of your visit to the market sandwiched between the Grand Husseini Mosque and the Roman Nymphaeum in Amman ~ full of vibrant colours from fruit and vegetables and from spices and herbs!

  • Wow, who said paradise has to be tropical?! How amazing it must have been to experience the magic and energy of Amman! Thanks for sharing! ❤️

  • Wonderful architecture, creative vibes, and a friendly atmosphere! When I read your travel posts first thing in the morning, I know it will be an awesome day because I’m now refreshing my Bucket List before the adventure begins! 🙂

  • Absolutely beautiful! Now, how do you immerse yourself in the destination’s culture? EAT dammit! This foodie and culture lover adores your travel journals, Tanya!

    • You’re so right, Malvika. The food options there are endless, and the people are wonderful – both Jordanians and expats. Hope you can visit soon.

  • “Surrender to your path, forget about time or speed, and most importantly walk in joy.” ~ Roxana Jones

    What a thoughtful guide, Tanya! I think it is telling me to make Jordan happen! Keep spreading love and positivity! ❤️

  • “If you know the art of finding some things in a quite empty street, then you know the art of happiness.” ~ Mehmet Murat ildan

    Amman looks like such a dazzling city, and those restaurant options are all hella gorgeous! I could hit RESTART on my brain and give myself some peace and me-time in Amman.

  • I do love a city (or a region) that has ruins to visit ~ why? ‘cause it feels like you are taking a peek into the past. We all need time to reconnect with nature and ourselves, to meditate and enjoy the simplicity of life… 🙂

    • I couldn’t agree more! You’ve really gotta make it there soon, Ishmeet. The local cuisine and those stunning ruins are totally worth it!

  • Oh, this post is bringing back some happy recollections of my trip there 8 years ago. I really enjoyed experiencing Amman, and thank you for sharing these pictures and videos – it looks like the city hasn’t changed that much. ❤️

    • Glad this brought back some happy memories for you, Riya. Amman was SUCH a surprise to me ~ I had no clue what to expect!

  • The smell of spices, coffee and honey tells the story of food and culture… I’m visiting Jordan in November this year with a certain special someone who loves culturally and historically relevant places… so, thank you for this guide! ❤️❤️❤️

  • I could spend hours staring at the different colour shades combined with amazing scents, and a warm smile from the locals in Amman would always be welcome! I’m heading off to Jordan in a couple of weeks and I loved reading this. Loved the café suggestions, and of course, your pictures are wonderful!

  • What a fascinating read! Amman looks like an incredible place especially with the intermingling of cultures. I look forward to reading more of your travel adventures (I just recently discovered your blog), Tanya. 🙂

    • Glad I’m getting positive feedback on the history lessons. And I’m happy you found my blog, Aneesha. 🙂

  • “A city is not gauged by its length and width, but by the broadness of its vision and the height of its dreams.”

    Fun fact: Did you know that Amman is home to an annual international graffiti and street art festival? Jordanian and international artists have collaborated to throw up dozens of murals across the city over the past 7 years.

  • Arabic food is definitely an art, and the effort and details that go into every single dish is outstanding!

    I’ll tell you a little secret… the best falafel sandwich places are not on the internet, nor do they have English names to locate them. You have to ask the locals for recommendations! One of my favourite falafel places, where they serve Arabic shraq bread is on Paris Square – jabal lweibdeh! ❤️

  • I’m glad you found it a very safe and welcoming city to visit, although it’s a shame that independent travel without car hire is not easier. Anyway, I’m excited to visit Amman now, thank you for all the tips! I am going to follow your itinerary, it looks like you planned it just right! *Love your enthusiasm even more!

  • You did go to some pretty incredible places when you were there. Of course, Amman’s better-known destinations are famous for good reason. But between visits to The Citadel and the Gold Souk, the one thing you’ve not mentioned much of is the street art everywhere in Amman, which is definitely worth a look! 🙂

  • Rich with history and ancient ruins on par with Greece, yet youthful in its energy, Jordan’s capital wasn’t on my radar before, but after reading this comprehensive guide to the city, I have to go – thanks!

  • Your trip looks so rich in culture and history… amazing account of a land with so much to offer! I hope to visit one day and am glad to be able to reference this guide! Thank you for sharing, Tanya.

    • Glad to hear it, Ashu. Jordan would be an ideal destination for you. History and ancient ruins are really everywhere in this beautiful country.

  • I don’t know about you, but for me, all these sureties serve as inspiration to dig in and decide for myself about this city which four million Jordanians call home! And yes, Jordanians are legendary for having a raging sweet tooth, and one of the tastiest treats combines savoury, sweet, crunchy and gooey into one delicious bit! Glad you got to sample kanafeh. 🙂

  • If you revel in the unexpected, you’ll soon discover that Amman provides a peek into the very core of Jordan’s past, present and future. Happy to see that Amman surprised you – and even mesmerised you!

  • Jordan is a very small country that is overflowing with history, culture and beautiful natural wonders. I loved reading your account of Amman. I was truly in awe throughout my time there. I would climb and scamper in and out of most of the ruins which made it not only fascinating but also fun!

  • One epic travel adventure this was! ❤️ Jordan seems like an unforgettable country and certainly one for everyone’s bucket list. I would love to visit someday!

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