Tick off the bucket list – here are the biggest and best things to do in the Jordanian capital across one, two and three days.
Whether you’re on a layover, holiday or just a local looking to have your own Ferris Bueller’s Day Off in Amman, we’re here to help you make the most of the city.
Not only does Jordan host some of the world’s oldest and most historically significant sites, but it also offers a variety of one-of-a-kind experiences. Its capital, Amman, offers a plethora of local activities, from unbelievably good food to gorgeous galleries and beautiful rooftop bars. Here’s a local’s accessible and informative itinerary, including the best touristy hotspots and reliable, trendy hideouts.
So, whether you’ve got 24 hours, 48 hours or 72 hours, this is how to make every second count. (Note: the working week runs from Sunday to Thursday, the weekend is on Friday and Saturday, and many establishments are closed on Friday morning).
The city awaits.
Day One: 24 hours in Amman
Travel back in time and walk in the footsteps of the Romans. Learn about the city’s history at UNESCO World Heritage sites, historical attractions, and traditional restaurants.
9am
Start your day with breakfast at Rumman Collective
Both an art hub and a restaurant, Rumman Collective offers a moment of peace away from the city’s chaos. With gorgeous interiors, stunning views of Amman’s old town, and traditional Jordanian food, it is the ideal spot for a quiet breakfast. Indulge in dishes like the Eggs and Sujuk platter, the Garden Salad, and the fluffiest of breads, all washed down with a fresh mint tea.
11am
Stroll around The Citadel
The Amman Citadel is a historic site that comprises a 1,700 metre wall dating back to the Bronze Age, the Temple of Hercules, and the Umayyad Palace. It is located atop Jebel Al Qala’a, a hill in Amman which is itself a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The hill is 850 metres above sea level, overlooks the old city in Amman, and is regarded as one of Jordan’s most treasured spots in the downtown area.
1pm
Grab some falafel at Abu Mahjoub
Easily the best falafel joint in the city. For one Jordanian dinar, you can get the best falafel sandwich you’ll ever taste. Made fresh in front of you, the falafel is smashed into your choice of bread and topped with fresh ingredients like hummus, tomato salad, shatta, pickles, and lemon slices for a zesty twist.
3pm
Visit the Roman Amphitheatre
The Roman Amphitheatre is located in Downtown Amman and was built between 138 and 161 CE during the reign of Antoninus Pius. His reign was marked by arts and culture, as the Emperor was keen to learn about philosophy and the arts. Thus, he encouraged the construction of the Roman Theatre to facilitate this. The amphitheatre is still regularly used for concerts and other shows.
5pm
Have a coffee in Weibdeh
Rumi Cafe in the vibey Weibdeh has rich coffee and fantastic food, especially the homemade cakes. From local artists to big friend groups to older generations catching up over a coffee, the people who frequent Rumi are what make the place worth visiting.
8pm
Have dinner at Jordan Heritage Restaurant
Nestled in a peaceful courtyard in Weibdeh, Jordan Heritage restaurant is a beautiful and underrated spot that serves exclusively Jordanian food. If you’re looking for a traditional taste of the Amman culinary experience, this should be your first choice.
10.30pm
Enjoy Amman at its peak at Shams El Balad
For anyone wanting a delicious, refreshing cocktail on a warm summer’s evening, this is the place to try. It’s a restaurant that turns into a bar in the evenings, with a younger crowd. The food is on the costlier side, but the drinks are the draw. They have some interesting fusion cocktails that incorporate Levantine flavours too. The bar hosts a different DJ every night.
Day Two: 48 hours in Amman
Amman is a bustling metropolis with luxury malls and architectural wonders. This is well and truly a global city, so it’s time to visit the blockbuster sights. It’s time to go large.
9am
Try a traditional breakfast at Khashouka
A chaotic but divine Iraqi breakfast place. The service is quick and efficient, and the food comes out piping hot and reliably delicious. You’ll get to experience Arab cuisine, including manaqeesh, houmous, foul, labneh, and olives. Khashouka is a must in our books.
10am
Take a quick trip to Jerash
At a quick hour’s drive from Amman, Jerash is both beautiful and fascinating. Located in Northern Jordan, Jerash is one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world. Historically, it was once part of the Decapolis League, a group of ten cities claimed by the Roman Empire. Take a stroll through its charming streets and soak up the details of ancient temples and theatres. Climb to the hilltop of Umm Qais, a former Decapolis city once visited by Jesus and enjoy the beautiful view of the Sea of Galilee and the Gilead Mountains.
2pm
Dine at the famed Al-Quds Restaurant
Al-Quds is the most convenient place to get yourself a fresh plate of traditional Jordanian ‘mansaf’. You can’t leave Jordan without trying the national dish. If you’re a fan of succulent lamb and fragrant rice, you’ll fit right in here.
5pm
Explore Downtown Amman and the Souq
It’s where you’ll find the best affordable presents to buy for your friends and family. From newly mixed perfume to ashtrays, mugs, and keffiyehs to fresh bottles of olive oil and bags of spices, downtown has you covered.
8pm
Dinner, bowling and drinks in Swefieh Village
Swefieh Village is a modern, trendy food courtyard with the latest and best restaurants, food stalls and bars. Walk around and sample a variety of cuisines—from Lebanese shawarma to sushi—and wash it all down with drinks at Fyxx. It’s a wine bar with a stunning interior and a huge selection of wines. Finish off the night at TheBowlRoom on the bottom floor – enjoy hours of tunes and real competition.
Day Three: 72 hours in Amman
Amman is one of the hippest cities in the Middle East. Since opening its cultural scene, there has been a wave of concept stores and concerts. Get your cool on.
9am
Enjoy breakfast at Hashem
Jordan’s oldest restaurant is located in the heart of Downtown Amman. A historical spot, the restaurant serves only one thing: a platter of falafel, hoummus, khobez, foul, and – here’s the kicker – fries. They bring it all on paper plates, and practically throw the food down on the table, so if you don’t love a scrappier style of breakfast, this might not be for you.
11am
Tour The Jordan Museum
The Jordan Museum is the national museum of Jordan, which aims to preserve and platform the country’s history. The museum serves as a learning centre, helping visitors understand Jordan’s heritage and sharing this knowledge in a variety of ways. It tells the story of innovation, spanning 1.5 million years of Jordanian history and archaeology. The leading exhibition narrates the story of Jordan from the Palaeolithic period to the contemporary period. Additionally, highly valuable and classic pieces of Jordanian art are displayed throughout the museum, including the 9,700-year-old Ain Ghazal Statues, the Dead Sea Scrolls, and more.
1pm
Grab lunch at Manara
Manara Arts & Culture is a contemporary cafe and multi-functional hub, with friendly employees, great food and drinks, and views over Amman. Try the freshly made manaqeesh with a cup of Turkish coffee for the perfect pit stop to fuel the rest of your afternoon. Sit outside and enjoy the city’s skyline, or visit the second floor’s collection of cultural art and fashion pieces.
2pm
Shop until you drop
Second Base Thrift Store, founded by FabricAid, is where you’ll secure stylish yet sustainable coats, shirts and boots. Their collections are curated by a stylist, and anything you buy from there is tailored free of charge. Dar Ne’meh sells local products made by Jordanian women, and the profits go back to them. Your guilt-free shopping experience will include tote bags, laptop cases, coasters, pouches, and soap sets. The collections change often, so if you like something, make sure to snag it before it’s gone. Darat Mosaic & Ceramic Art sells homemade ceramics and local artisanal jewellery. You can get mugs, coasters, magnets, and more, and can also book a mosaic-making class to design and decorate your own plate or mug.
5pm
Browse brilliant bookshops
Books@Café is the cafe to go to with friends. Grab a drink on the balcony and enjoy the sun’s glow over the city’s beautiful yellow buildings. The ground floor is full of posters, ceramics, and handmade art pieces. The Good Bookshop is a local Jordanian startup founded in 2005 to contribute to the local community through education, literacy, and culture. The shop has a vast array of books, gifts, and, of course, exceptional coffee. Qahwa BLK has the best and cheapest coffee in Amman, and you must try the Pistachio Latte to make all your dreams come true.
8pm
Dine at Levant
An Armenian restaurant that gets better with age. A slightly fancier spot, Levant provides excellent service and unmatched, decadent dishes, including flavoursome fattoush, creamy manti, smoky muttabal, juicy shawarma, crispy, spicy potatoes, and much more.
10pm
Savour Amman’s enchanting skyline
District, High Garden and Loft are all classy rooftop bars for those aged 21 and above only, so you can expect a calmer, more mature crowd. The drinks are strong, the service is on point—and, of course, the views are always mesmerising. Take your last photo opportunity before saying goodbye to Amman.
Where to stay
Amman has a plethora of world-class hotels right in the centre of the city. Step right into the heart of the capital, and get to know it. Whether you’re looking for a traditional stay or a more modern spot, there are plenty of high-end options.
Four Seasons Hotel Amman
Located on Al-Kindi Street in Abdoun, Four Seasons Hotel Amman offers a five-star, luxury stay. The hotel boasts 192 rooms and provides several curated experiences and tours for guests to explore, complemented by world-class in-house fine dining. Indulge in a hearty breakfast at Olea, or a timeless French lunch at La Capitale. Four Seasons also has a glorious spa with plenty of treatments and a truly relaxing atmosphere.
The Ritz-Carlton Amman
With 193 rooms and 34 suites, The Ritz-Carlton Amman has become a steadily popular choice amongst international tourists. It has found its niche in Jordan’s luxury hotel market. Experience true luxury at The Ritz-Carlton, whether that’s in one of their gorgeous suites or relaxing in the spa and pool facilities.
W Amman
With its contemporary design and unique vision, this Amman hotel stands out above the rest. Known for attracting Amman’s youth and popular with travellers across the Middle East, the W Amman is a go-to spot for a chic, cool stay. With an impressive 229 rooms and 50 suites, an elevated culinary experience, a state-of-the-art gym, spa and outdoor pool – there really is no place like the W.
When to visit
The best time to visit Jordan is during the fall. From October until early December, the weather in Jordan is pleasant, so you don’t sweat out on your historic excursions. Late winter months can get extremely cold in Jordan with rain and snowfall in several areas, while the summer months are very warm, with temperatures reaching up to 34°C (93°F).
Getting there and away
Jordan’s capital, Amman, is well connected to the world via Queen Alia International Airport. You can hop on a direct flight from London that takes a little over five hours, whereas Dubai and Abu Dhabi are about three hours away from the city. If you’re travelling from Saudi Arabia, you can hop on a direct flight from Jeddah or Riyadh, which takes roughly two hours to bring you to the capital. The airport is one of the busiest in the Middle East and is home to the country’s flag carrier, Royal Jordanian.
GO: Visit https://international.visitjordan.com for more information.