Amman Jordan 5 Day Itinerary

July 27, 2024

5-Day Amman Itinerary: A City & History Adventure

This itinerary balances historical exploration with the best of what Amman has to offer, showcasing both its ancient past and modern charm.

Day 1: Ancient Amman & Downtown Delights

Morning: Start your day at the Citadel, exploring the Roman ruins and enjoying panoramic views of the city.
- Things to see: Temple of Hercules, Umayyad Palace, Byzantine Church, Roman Theatre
- Activity: Take a guided tour or explore independently with an audio guide.
Afternoon: Wander through the bustling streets of Downtown Amman, immersing yourself in the local culture. Visit the Jordan Museum for a glimpse into Jordan’s rich history and archaeology.
Evening: Indulge in a traditional Jordanian meal at Hashem Restaurant.
- Food Tip: Order the “Mansaf” - the national dish of Jordan, a delicious lamb stew served with rice and fermented yogurt sauce. It’s a must-try!
- Accommodation: Check into your hotel in Downtown Amman, like the Jordan Tower Hotel or The Boutique Hotel.

Day 2: Roman History & Culinary Exploration

Morning: Explore the Roman Theatre further and imagine the ancient gladiators battling it out.
Afternoon: Wander through the souks (markets) of Downtown Amman, soak in the vibrant atmosphere, and browse traditional crafts, spices, and clothing.
Evening: Enjoy a local feast at Sufra Restaurant. Their traditional Jordanian dishes with a modern twist are perfect for a unique dining experience.
- Food Tip: Try the “Maqluba” - a delightful dish of rice cooked with meat and vegetables in a single pot!

Day 3: Amman’s Modern Side & Food For Thought

Morning: Visit the Jordan Archaeological Museum, home to artifacts from throughout Jordan’s history.
Afternoon: Explore the modern side of Jordan by strolling through the Abdali District.
- Food Tip: Enjoy a delicious lunch at The Boulevard Restaurant, a popular spot for its contemporary Jordanian cuisine and stunning views.
Evening: Dine at Hashemite Plaza in the heart of Amman, where locals gather for food stalls and socialising.

Day 4: Dead Sea Relaxation & Historical Immersion

Morning: Relax and rejuvenate at the Dead Sea.
- Tip: The salt content of the Dead Sea makes it easier to float than in a pool or ocean.
Afternoon: After soaking up the unique experience of the Dead Sea, take a trip back in time with a visit to the Roman Amphitheatre in Amman’s ancient Roman ruins.

Morning: Spend the morning enjoying the healing properties of the Dead Sea.

Food Tip: For a delicious and traditional Jordanian meal with a view, head to The Dead Sea Restaurant.

Day 5: Exploring Amman’s Flavors & Farewell Feast

Morning: Visit the Rainbow Street, a charming street filled with cafes, restaurants, and art galleries.
Food Tip: For your last meal in Amman, try the Falafel Factory for some of the best falafel in town.

Afternoon: Enjoy a farewell coffee at Cafe Arabica.

Things to know about Amman:

Safety: Jordan is generally a safe country for travelers, but it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take common-sense precautions against theft.
Language: Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Currency: The Jordanian Dinar (JOD) is the currency. Most places accept US dollars, but you’ll get a better exchange rate with dinars.
Tipping: It’s customary to tip in Jordan. A good rule of thumb is 10% for restaurants and taxis.

Tips for a Smooth Trip:

Dress modestly: When visiting religious sites or conservative areas, dress appropriately. This means covering your shoulders and knees with clothing that is not too tight or revealing.
Learn basic Arabic phrases: While English is spoken in many places, knowing a few simple phrases like “shukran” (thank you), “ma’a as-salaama” (goodbye) will enhance your cultural experience and be appreciated by locals.

Food & Drink:

Tastes of Jordan: Experience the culinary delights of Jordan by indulging in traditional dishes like Mansaf (lamb cooked in a yogurt sauce), Falafel (fried chickpea balls), Hummus (chickpea dip), and fresh juices from street vendors or restaurants.
Bargaining is expected: In the souks, be prepared to negotiate prices with vendors.

Transportation:

Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Amman and are a common mode of transportation.
Jett Buses: Consider taking a JETT bus for intercity travel. They are comfortable and reliable.
Ride-hailing apps: Apps like Careem and Uber are popular and convenient options for getting around within the city.

Beyond the Food:

Explore the Amman Citadel: Immerse yourself in history by visiting this ancient hilltop fortress with stunning views of the city.
Wander the Roman Theatre: This impressive ruin is a reminder of Amman’s rich past as a Roman settlement.
Visit the Jordan Archaeological Museum: Explore the history of Jordan from prehistoric times to the modern era.

Getting Around Amman:

Walking: Amman is surprisingly walkable in its downtown core, but distances can be deceiving.
Taxis: The most convenient way to get around the city.
JETT Buses:

Use JETT buses for long-distance travel.

Tips for a Unique Experience:

Visit the Roman Theatre: This is a great place to see ancient history come alive and catch a glimpse of the past.
Explore local markets: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Amman’s marketplace culture.
Take advantage of public transportation: It’s a good way to see the city from different perspectives.

Getting to the Dead Sea:

Public buses: Take a JETT bus from Amman to one of the Dead Sea resorts (like the Dead Sea Resort or Ma’in Hot Springs). They offer frequent services and are an affordable option for transport.
Private car/taxi: This allows for flexibility but is more expensive.

**Enjoy the local cuisine and the beauty of the Jordan

Let me know if you’d like to add any specific details, such as:

Length of stay: How long will your trip be?
Interests: What kind of things do you enjoy doing/seeing? (e.g., history, nature, food, nightlife)

I can then tailor the itinerary to better suit your needs and interests.**