Jordan

Nestled among the hills of northwestern Jordan, Amman, the capital city, is a captivating blend of ancient history and vibrant modernity. With its bustling streets, friendly locals, and a mix of old and new, Amman offers a unique experience for travelers looking to dive into the heart of Jordanian culture. From the iconic Roman ruins to trendy cafes and rich culinary experiences, Amman has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to make the most of your visit to this incredible city.

Sufra Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience authentic Jordanian cuisine.

The restaurant, set in a charming traditional building with Arabic-inspired decor, offers a cozy atmosphere and excellent service. The menu features a range of classic Jordanian dishes, including THE BEST mansaf (lamb cooked in yogurt sauce with rice), maqluba (a delicious rice and vegetable dish), and a variety of mezze.

The Vibrant Streets: Markets, Cafes, and Street Food

Amman’s streets are a living, breathing testament to the city’s cultural fusion. Rainbow Street, one of the most famous streets in Amman, is lined with trendy cafes, art galleries, and boutiques. Whether you're grabbing a coffee or just people-watching, this bustling street is a great place to soak in the energy of the city. BLK coffee shops are everywhere and a must try! They have rose and pistachio lattes to die for.

If you’re looking to sample Jordanian street food, be sure to visit Al-Balad (downtown), the heart of the city's historic district. Here, you’ll find traditional Jordanian snacks like falafel, hummus, shawarma, and manakish (a type of flatbread). For dessert, don’t miss trying knafeh, a sweet pastry drenched in syrup and cheese. If you’re a fan of savory food, fatteh (rice, chickpeas, and yogurt) is another local delicacy worth tasting.

For those craving a unique fusion of Middle Eastern flavors with a contemporary twist, Khoushka is the place to be.

This trendy spot offers a creative take on traditional dishes, blending rich, authentic ingredients with innovative techniques. With dishes like smoked baba ganoush, shakshouka, spiced hummus, and freshly baked manakish. We had the best hummus and labne here.

Falafel Al Quds: The Best Falafel in Amman

If you're in Amman and craving the best falafel, look no further than Falafel Al Quds. This small but beloved spot is known for its crispy, golden falafel, made fresh daily with a perfect blend of chickpeas, herbs, and spices. The falafel is served in warm pita bread with a variety of toppings, including tahini, pickled vegetables, and salads. The flavors are simple but absolutely delicious, and the place is a local favorite. If you're a fan of street food, come!!

Ice Cream on Knafeh: A Sweet Jordanian Delight

One of Jordan's most iconic and indulgent desserts is ice cream on Knafeh. This irresistible treat combines the warm, gooey knafeh—a traditional Middle Eastern pastry made with shredded phyllo dough, sweetened syrup, and melted cheese—with a scoop of rich, creamy ice cream. The contrast of hot and cold creates a perfect blend of textures and flavors that locals and visitors alike can’t resist.

To try this iconic dessert, head to Habibah Sweets, one of the best places in Amman to enjoy authentic Knafeh. Once you’ve got your plate of fresh, hot knafeh, take a quick stroll next door to Bekdash, the famous ice cream shop known for its rich, creamy flavors. The pistachio ice cream at Bekdash is particularly delicious and makes the perfect topping for your knafeh. The cool, creamy ice cream pairs wonderfully with the warm, syrupy pastry, creating an unforgettable dessert experience. This sweet combination is a must-try when visiting Jordan!

Jabal Amman: A Charming Historic District of Amman

For a truly memorable dining experience in Amman, there’s a restaurant that stands out not just for its exquisite food, but also for its atmosphere. Picture this: you're seated under the canopy of beautifully lit trees with an incredible view of the sprawling city below. This restaurant offers the perfect balance of ambiance and breathtaking views, making it an ideal spot for a special evening out. Of course, we got pistachio waffles and pistachio latttes.

Fairmont Amman Hotel: Luxury and Elegance in the Heart of the City

With its elegant design, world-class amenities, and exceptional service, it’s the perfect hotel for both business and leisure travelers. The hotel boasts spacious rooms and suites with modern decor and stunning views of the city. They have a bunch of restaurants and a stylish rooftop spot perfect for enjoying a panoramic view of Amman. The Fairmont Spa offers a range of rejuvenating treatments, while the outdoor pool and fitness center provide guests with plenty of opportunities to relax and stay active.

Petra: The Rose-Red Wonder of the World

While Amman offers a captivating glimpse into Jordan’s history and modern culture, no trip to Jordan would be complete without a visit to Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Located about three hours south of Amman, Petra is an ancient city carved into the red sandstone cliffs, a marvel of both architecture and engineering. Petra is best experienced at sunrise or sunset when the light casts a beautiful, golden hue over the stone structures, making it feel like you're stepping into another world.

While Petra is a bit of a drive from Amman, it's worth every minute. Whether you explore it on foot or on horseback, the experience of wandering through this ancient wonder is truly unforgettable.

The Dead Sea: A Relaxing Retreat

If you’re looking to unwind after your adventures in Petra, a visit to the Dead Sea is the perfect way to relax. Located just 45 minutes from Amman, the Dead Sea is famous for its mineral-rich waters and high salt content, which make floating effortless and incredibly relaxing. The therapeutic properties of the mud are another highlight, with many visitors enjoying the benefits of slathering themselves in the mineral-rich mud before taking a dip.

For a luxury stay, consider booking a night at the Mövenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea.

Located directly on the shores of the Dead Sea, this resort offers stunning views, multiple pools, a spa, and direct access to the sea itself. You can float in the water, enjoy the resort’s world-class facilities, or indulge in a relaxing spa treatment, making it the perfect spot to rejuvenate after your exploration of Petra and Amman. The breakfast buffet here is absolutely amazing. They also have some beautiful restaurants for dinner with live music.

Ma'in Waterfall Resort: Thermal Baths and Cave Experiences

For a truly unique experience, take a day trip from Amman to the Ma'in Waterfall Resort. Located about an hour and a half from the city, this hidden gem is nestled in the hills and offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to relax in thermal baths fed by natural hot spring waters.

The resort is home to a beautiful thermal cave where you can soak in the hot mineral water straight from the earth’s core. This warm, rejuvenating water has natural healing properties, and soaking in the cave while the steam rises around you feels otherworldly. As you unwind in the thermal waters, you’ll be surrounded by the sound of cascading water from the nearby waterfalls, creating a tranquil atmosphere.

What makes the experience even more magical is the abundance of cats that roam around the resort. These friendly, well-fed felines seem to be part of the charm, adding a touch of whimsy as they nap in the sun or play around the thermal pools. The Ma'in Waterfall Resort is a perfect combination of relaxation and nature, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to unwind in Jordan.

Final Thoughts: Why Amman, Petra, and the Dead Sea Should Be On Your Bucket List

Amman is a city where history and modernity coexist in harmony. From ancient ruins and bustling souks to contemporary art galleries and trendy cafes, there’s something for every type of traveler. Whether you're wandering through the old city, enjoying a coffee with a view, or taking day trips to nearby attractions like Petra, the Dead Sea, or the Desert Castles, Amman is sure to leave you enchanted with its charm, warmth, and beauty.

Add in a visit to the Main Waterfall Resort for a relaxing soak in the thermal baths, and you have the perfect mix of adventure, culture, and luxury. The Mövenpick Resort at the Dead Sea is the ideal spot for unwinding after exploring the region, while Petra remains one of the world’s most awe-inspiring historical wonders. So, if you're planning a trip to the Middle East, make sure to add Amman, Petra, the Dead Sea, and the thermal baths at Main Waterfall Resort to your list—you won’t be disappointed!