3-Day Amman, Jordan Travel Itinerary

Introduction:

Amman is the capital and largest city of Jordan, located in the north-central part of the country. It is a modern city with deep historical roots that date back to ancient civilizations such as the Ammonites, Romans, and Umayyads. The city is known for its fascinating mix of modern urban life and ancient ruins, including Roman theaters, medieval mosques, bustling souks, and contemporary art galleries. Amman’s location also makes it a great base for exploring other historical and natural sites across Jordan.

Places to Visit:

1. The Citadel (Jabal al-Qal’a): This ancient hilltop site includes Roman, Byzantine, and Umayyad ruins and offers panoramic views of the city.
2. Roman Theater: Located downtown, this large and well-preserved amphitheater dates back to the 2nd century and remains a key cultural venue.
3. Jordan Museum: This museum displays Jordan’s rich history, including artifacts from Petra and the Dead Sea Scrolls.
4. Rainbow Street: A lively and charming area full of cafes, restaurants, shops, and panoramic views.
5. King Abdullah I Mosque: A striking blue-domed mosque that welcomes non-Muslim visitors and offers insights into Islamic architecture.
6. Souk Jara: A seasonal outdoor market offering crafts, food, art, and live music, popular among locals and tourists.
7. Darat al Funun: A modern art gallery showcasing contemporary Jordanian and Arab art within restored historical buildings.
8. Royal Automobile Museum: This museum displays a unique collection of cars and motorcycles owned by the late King Hussein.
9. Al Balad (Downtown Amman): The old part of Amman is ideal for exploring traditional markets, falafel shops, and historic architecture.
10. Abdali Boulevard: A modern commercial district with luxury shops, eateries, and open-air promenades.

Sample Itinerary:

Day 1: Exploring Ancient Amman

• 9:00 AM: Begin your day at The Citadel (30-minute drive from most hotels). Spend 1.5 hours exploring ruins and views.
• 11:00 AM: Walk or drive down to the Roman Theater (5 mins). Spend about 1 hour.
• 12:30 PM: Have lunch at Hashem Restaurant in downtown Amman, known for its falafel and hummus.
• 2:00 PM: Visit the Jordan Museum (10 minutes walk). Allocate 1.5 hours.
• 4:00 PM: Walk around Al Balad, browse local shops, grab Arabic coffee.
• Evening: Dine at Sufra Restaurant on Rainbow Street and explore the street.

Day 2: Cultural and Religious Sites

• 9:00 AM: Visit King Abdullah I Mosque (15 mins from the city center). Spend 45 minutes.
• 10:00 AM: Head to Darat al Funun (10 mins away). Stay for 1 hour.
• 11:30 AM: Stop by Books@Cafe for coffee and views.
• 1:00 PM: Lunch in the Abdali district.
• 2:30 PM: Walk around Abdali Boulevard, visit shops, and relax.
• 4:00 PM: Explore the Royal Automobile Museum (30-minute drive). Stay for 1–1.5 hours.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at Kan Zaman Restaurant, a heritage complex.

Day 3: Markets and Views

• 9:00 AM: If visiting in summer, go to Souk Jara (open Fridays). Spend 1.5–2 hours.
• 11:30 AM: Walk around Rainbow Street again and visit local boutiques.
• 1:00 PM: Eat lunch at Wild Jordan Center, with views over Old Amman.
• 3:00 PM: Free time for shopping or the spa.
• Evening: Final dinner at Fakhreldin, a fine-dining Levantine restaurant.

See Itinerary Map (Includes Places to Visit and Accommodations)

Best Time To Go:

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are the best times to visit Amman. During these months, the weather is mild and ideal for outdoor sightseeing. Summers can be very hot and dry, while winters are cool and occasionally rainy. Spring also brings the added beauty of blooming wildflowers in the surrounding hills.

Activities To Do:

• Visit Ancient Ruins: The Citadel and Roman Theater offer immersive historical experiences through well-preserved Roman and Islamic architecture.
• Shop in Traditional Markets: Explore the souks of Al Balad for spices, textiles, jewelry, and handmade crafts.
• Experience Local Cuisine: Try classic Jordanian dishes like mansaf, falafel, and kanafeh at local restaurants such as Hashem and Sufra.
• Explore Art Galleries: Darat al Funun and other local galleries provide a look into Jordan’s modern and contemporary art scene.
• Join a Cooking Class: Participate in a Jordanian cooking class, such as those offered by Beit Sitti, where you learn to prepare traditional dishes in a home setting.

Accommodations:

• The St. Regis Amman: Offers luxury amenities, spacious rooms, fine dining, and a central location.

• Four Seasons Hotel Amman: A five-star hotel with exceptional service, spa, and panoramic views.

• The House Boutique Suites: Offers modern design, a rooftop pool, and a great downtown location.

• Amman Rotana: A modern high-rise hotel in Abdali with elegant rooms and a rooftop bar.

• Le Royal Hotel Amman: Known for its unique architecture and central location.

• Nomads Hotel Amman: A trendy, clean hostel ideal for solo and budget travelers.

• Caravan Hotel: Offers friendly service, basic but comfortable rooms, and good value near the city center.

Transportation Options:

• Airport Transfers: Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) is 40 minutes from downtown. Taxis and airport shuttles are available.
• Taxis: Yellow taxis are widely used. Always ensure the meter is on, or agree on a fare.
• Ride-Hailing: Careem and Uber operate in Amman and are often more convenient than regular taxis.
• Buses: Public buses run through Amman, but routes are not always clear to tourists. It is mainly for intercity travel.
• Car Rentals: Available at the airport or city. Useful for day trips outside the city.
• Walking: Walking is practical in districts like Al Balad and Rainbow Street, but less so for farther attractions.

Tips:

• Dress modestly: Jordan is a conservative country. While Amman is modern, modest clothing is respectful in public areas.
• Stay hydrated: The climate is dry, especially in summer, so carry water while exploring.
• Use cash: While cards are accepted in hotels and restaurants, local markets and taxis prefer Jordanian dinars in cash.
• Bargain respectfully: Haggling is expected in markets, but always do so politely.
• Be aware of prayer times: Some shops may close briefly during daily prayers, especially on Fridays.

Amman is a captivating blend of old and new, where ancient ruins sit beside contemporary cafes and vibrant art scenes. In three days, you can explore the city’s historical treasures, immerse yourself in Jordanian culture, and enjoy its hospitality. Its location makes it a convenient gateway to Petra, the Dead Sea, and Wadi Rum, but Amman, Jordan itself is worthy of deep discovery. Whether you’re drawn to history, food, or modern city life, Amman offers a rich and memorable travel experience.