Amman 10 days

Perched atop one of Amman's highest hills, the Citadel offers panoramic views of the city and houses the ruins of Roman, Byzantine, and Umayyad civilizations. Key structures include the Temple of Hercules, the Umayyad Palace complex, and the Jordan Archaeological Museum.

• Go early to avoid crowds and the midday sun.
• Wear comfortable shoes for uneven terrain.

A remarkably well-preserved 6,000-seat theatre dating back to the 2nd century AD. It's carved into the hillside and still used for cultural events today, offering a glimpse into Roman urban life.

• Climb to the top rows for excellent city views.
• The adjacent Folklore Museum is also worth a quick visit.

Explore the bustling heart of old Amman, a vibrant maze of souks, spice shops, traditional bakeries, and street food vendors. It's a sensory overload with sights, sounds, and smells of local life.

• Sample kanafeh from a renowned local shop like Habibah Sweets.
• Practice your bargaining skills in the souks.

A legendary, no-frills eatery in downtown Amman famous for its authentic and delicious hummus, falafel, and foul medames. It's a local institution with a bustling atmosphere and simple, flavorful fare.

• Order a mix of their specialties for a true taste of Jordan.
• Expect shared tables and a lively environment.

Showcasing a significant collection of modern and contemporary Arab art from across the Middle East and North Africa. It features paintings, sculptures, and prints, offering a rich cultural perspective.

• Look for works by prominent Jordanian artists.
• The gallery often hosts temporary exhibitions.

A vibrant and trendy street known for its eclectic mix of cafes, restaurants, boutiques, art galleries, and street art. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists to stroll, shop, and dine.

• Stop for coffee or a light lunch at one of the many charming cafes.
• Explore the side streets for hidden gems and local shops.

A modern museum dedicated to showcasing Jordan's history, heritage, and cultural identity. Its exhibits cover archaeology, natural history, and contemporary Jordanian life, including the Dead Sea Scrolls.

• Don't miss the section on Jordan's geological and paleontological history.
• Check their schedule for temporary exhibitions or events.

An upscale restaurant offering delicious and authentic Jordanian cuisine in a beautiful, traditional setting. It's known for its wide selection of mezze, grilled meats, and home-style dishes.

• Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.
• Try their mansaf, a national dish of lamb cooked in fermented yogurt sauce.

One of the best-preserved Roman provincial cities in the world, Jerash boasts Hadrian's Arch, the Hippodrome, the Forum, and the magnificent colonnaded streets. It's a vast archaeological site offering an unparalleled glimpse into Roman urban planning.

• Hire a local guide at the entrance to enhance your understanding.
• Allocate ample time to explore the entire site.

Enjoy a traditional Jordanian lunch at a local restaurant in Jerash town. Many offer delicious mezze and grilled options, providing a taste of regional flavors.

• Ask your guide or driver for recommendations.
• Try dishes featuring local vegetables and herbs.

A 12th-century Muslim castle built by the Ayyubids, perched on a hilltop overlooking the Jordan Valley. It offers stunning views and a fascinating insight into Islamic military architecture.

• The castle is well-preserved and offers opportunities for exploration.
• Enjoy the scenic drive through the lush hills.

A popular spot in downtown Amman known for its excellent coffee, traditional breakfast dishes like foul and hummus, and light snacks. It's a great place to start the day with local flavors.

• Try their freshly squeezed juices.
• A good spot for people-watching in the city.

A beloved institution in Amman, Al Quds is famous for its authentic Palestinian and Jordanian mezze. Enjoy a wide array of small dishes, from tabbouleh and fattoush to hummus and mutabal, in a casual setting.

• Order a variety of mezze to share.
• Their falafel is also highly recommended.

Aromatic and colorful, this bustling market is where locals buy their spices, herbs, nuts, and dried fruits. It's a fantastic place to experience local commerce and find unique ingredients.

• Engage with the vendors; they are often happy to share information.
• Look for sumac, za'atar, and cardamom for authentic Jordanian flavors.

Embark on a self-guided culinary adventure through Amman's streets, sampling local delicacies like falafel sandwiches, shawarma, knafeh, and fresh juices. Focus on areas like downtown and Jabal Amman.

• Be adventurous and try things from popular street stalls.
• Look for places with a high turnover of customers.

A striking example of early Islamic architecture, this fortified desert castle from the 8th century features a unique design with internal courtyards and defensive towers. Its imposing structure stands starkly against the desert landscape.

• The interior is atmospheric and offers a glimpse into its past.
• Best visited with a driver who can explain its history.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, this small Umayyad desert castle is renowned for its incredibly well-preserved frescoes and a functioning bathhouse. It provides a rare insight into the luxurious lifestyle of early Islamic rulers.

• The frescoes are fragile; admire them respectfully.
• The bathhouse is an early example of Roman-influenced architecture.

Enjoy a simple, local lunch in the town of Azraq, often featuring traditional Jordanian dishes. Options may include grilled meats, rice dishes, and fresh salads.

• Ask your driver for a reliable local eatery.
• Try some of the regional specialties if available.

A unique ecological oasis in the desert, this reserve is a vital stopover for migratory birds. It features a beautiful natural lake and boardwalks for easy exploration of the diverse flora and fauna.

• Best visited during migratory seasons for birdwatching.
• The boardwalks are accessible and offer good viewing points.

A modern, impressive mosque known for its striking blue mosaic dome. It's a significant religious site and offers a peaceful atmosphere for visitors, with separate areas for men and women.

• Dress modestly: long sleeves, long pants/skirts, and a headscarf for women.
• Check visiting hours for non-Muslims, usually in the morning.

Enjoy lunch or coffee with breathtaking panoramic views of Amman. This restaurant offers a relaxed setting to appreciate the city's sprawl from a high vantage point.

• The views are spectacular at any time of day.
• It's a good spot to orient yourself with the city's geography.

A modern urban development featuring contemporary architecture, upscale shops, cafes, and restaurants. It represents Amman's forward-looking architectural side, contrasting with its historic areas.

• Great for a leisurely stroll and window shopping.
• Several international and local eateries are available.

Offers stunning views over the Citadel and downtown Amman, especially at sunset. It serves organic dishes and drinks, with proceeds supporting conservation efforts.

• Arrive before sunset for the best experience.
• The shop downstairs sells local crafts and eco-friendly products.

Experience the unique sensation of floating effortlessly in the hypersaline waters of the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth. Many resorts offer day passes for access to their facilities and the beach.

• Do not shave for at least 24 hours before visiting.
• Rinse off thoroughly with fresh water after swimming.

Enjoy a buffet lunch at the resort where you've purchased a day pass. Options typically include international and local cuisine.

• Ensure your day pass includes lunch or factor it in.
• Stay hydrated as the sun can be intense.

Indulge in the therapeutic benefits of Dead Sea mud, known for its rich mineral content. Apply the mud to your skin and let it dry before rinsing off for a revitalizing treatment.

• Many resorts offer this as an add-on or part of their package.
• Don't leave the mud on for too long; follow resort guidelines.

A cultural hub that hosts various performances, exhibitions, and events. It's a modern venue showcasing Jordan's commitment to arts and culture.

• Check their schedule in advance for performances.
• The architecture of the building itself is noteworthy.

A popular spot for modern Jordanian cuisine, offering a refined take on traditional dishes in a stylish setting. It's known for its creative presentation and fresh ingredients.

• Reservations are recommended.
• Their brunch menu is also highly praised.

A vibrant weekend market (usually on Fridays) featuring local handicrafts, art, food, and cultural items. It's a great place to find unique souvenirs and interact with local artisans.

• Best visited on a Friday; check operating days.
• Look for handmade jewelry, ceramics, and textiles.

Supports local women artisans by selling their handcrafted goods, including intricate embroidery, weaving, and woodwork. Purchasing items here directly benefits these communities.

• A great place to find high-quality, authentic Jordanian crafts.
• The staff can provide information about the artisans and their work.

A beautifully restored traditional Jordanian house in the old city, offering a glimpse into historical architecture and local life. It often hosts cultural events and exhibitions.

• Appreciate the traditional courtyard design.
• Check if there are any temporary art exhibits or cultural displays.

A return visit to this beloved downtown institution for its consistently delicious and affordable hummus, falafel, and foul. It's a reliable choice for a quick, satisfying, and authentic Jordanian meal.

• Try ordering different mezze combinations.
• This is a great spot for a casual lunch.

Experience the vibrant local produce market where vendors sell fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and other daily necessities. It's a lively hub of commerce and a great place to observe daily life.

• Visit in the morning for the freshest produce.
• Engage with vendors and sample local fruits.

A popular restaurant known for its traditional Jordanian dishes, especially its delicious grills and mezze. It offers a cozy atmosphere and friendly service.

• Try their mixed grill platter for a variety of meats.
• Reservations are advisable.

A contemporary art center housed in a beautiful historic villa, featuring exhibitions by Arab artists, a library, and a sculpture garden. It's a serene and inspiring space dedicated to promoting art and culture.

• Check their website for current exhibitions and events.
• The garden is a peaceful spot to relax.

A classic Parisian-style cafe in Amman, offering a sophisticated ambiance for coffee, pastries, and light meals. It's a pleasant spot for a relaxed midday break.

• Enjoy their selection of French-inspired pastries.
• A good place to people-watch.

Showcasing an impressive collection of vintage and classic cars, many belonging to the late King Hussein. It's a fascinating look at automotive history and royal heritage.

• The collection is well-maintained and beautifully displayed.
• Interesting for car enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

An upscale restaurant offering a fusion of Mediterranean and international cuisine with an extensive wine list. It provides a refined dining experience with a modern ambiance.

• Ideal for a farewell dinner.
• Reservations are highly recommended.