Jordan has always been famous for its ruined Roman cities, including the castles of the Crusaders, numerous biblical sites and the infamous desert citadels. The country’s capital city Amman is very culturally diverse and is quickly becoming a metropolis filled with modern amenities. Featuring varied backdrops ranging from the red desert sands to the beautiful coral filled gulf, this area of the world has a lot to offer the traveler. Amman makes a great starting point for one to explore the country and has many opportunities for those on a budget.

Things to do

The most beautiful place advised to see in Amman is the sunset at the viewpoint situated near Citadel where you can listen to the muezzin call from the viewpoint and see the entire city in front of you. Other notable attractions include the Roman Theatre, the Citadel and Darat al Funun. With admission fees ranging from $1 to $3, these sites are filled with historical and cultural significance, while perfect for the budget traveler.  

Shopping in Amman is a great way to spend a day with countless malls and shopping areas that are suitable even for those on a budget. The Mecca Mall, Plaza Mall, Abdoun Mall and City Mall are all good choices to peruse. The downtown Amman area known as the Balad is also a nice shopping area where most prices are negotiable.

What to eat

Amman offers to its visitors numerous different styles of restaurants and cuisines with prices ranging from super cheap to moderate. For budget travelers, Arabic food is going to be the least expensive and most widely available. Shwarma is a local favorite in Amman, while Jordan’s specialty mansaf should not be missed.

What to buy

Amman has numerous antique shops located all over the city that are great to locate a timeless souvenir. Some other souvenirs specific to the area could include handcrafted daggers, Bedouin-style clothing, olive wood carvings and an antique brass tea or coffee pot.

Where to stay

Amman has a complete range of accommodation options for people. With very basic one star accommodation to luxurious five star. Some of the best budget hotels include Al-Marmin, Cliff Hostel and Amman Castle Hotel. These accommodations offer great service at a cheap rate.

Plan on spending a couple days in this capital city before launching off to the other sites of Jordan and experience the old and new cultures of Amman melding to form a unique cosmopolitan city.