Amman, the capital of Jordan, is the country’s political and economic center. Built on hills, it has expanded from an ancient settlement into a modern city with commercial districts, residential neighborhoods, and historical sites. This post will explore the best areas to stay in Amman, from its historic core to its upscale and business-friendly districts.
One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Amman’s roots date back to the Neolithic period. The city was known as Philadelphia during the Greco-Roman era, a legacy reflected in landmarks like the Roman Theater and the Citadel, which houses the Temple of Hercules and the remains of an Umayyad palace. Downtown Amman preserves its historic charm with traditional souks, Ottoman-era buildings, and local eateries serving Jordanian specialties. Find accommodation in the Old Town.
For a more modern experience, Abdali is the city’s new commercial district, featuring luxury hotels, shopping centers, and business offices. Jabal Amman and Jabal Al-Weibdeh offer a mix of old and new, with lively cultural spaces, art galleries, and a thriving café scene. Meanwhile, Sweifieh and Dabouq cater to those looking for upscale shopping, dining, and nightlife.
Amman’s main attractions include the Rainbow Street area, known for its cafes and artisan shops, and the King Abdullah I Mosque, an iconic blue-domed landmark. The city also serves as a gateway to Jordan’s most famous destinations, including Petra, the Dead Sea, and the Roman ruins of Jerash.
Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) is Jordan’s main international gateway, located about 20 miles (32 km) south of the city. Amman has a network of taxis, ride-hailing services, and buses, though traffic congestion can be an issue during peak hours.
Keep reading our guide to learn more about the best areas to stay in Amman, Jordan.
What are the best areas to stay in Amman?
The best area to stay in Amman is Al Abdali, a central district known for its modern skyline, luxury hotels, and business hubs. It is home to Abdali Boulevard, a pedestrian-friendly avenue with high-end shops, international restaurants, and entertainment venues. The area also features Abdali Mall, cultural landmarks like the King Abdullah I Mosque, and excellent public transport connections via Zahran Street and Queen Noor Street.
Other options include Old Town, the historic core of Amman with souks, traditional restaurants, and ancient landmarks like the Citadel and Roman Theater; Zahran, an upscale area known for luxury shopping, dining, and nightlife; and North Amman, which offers quieter, residential stays.
1. Al Abdali
Our recommended area to stay in Amman
Located just north of Downtown, Al Abdali is Amman’s modern commercial district.
Known as the city’s new financial hub, Al Abdali is home to office towers, shopping centers, and luxury hotels. The area is anchored by Abdali Boulevard, a pedestrian-friendly avenue lined with high-end shops, international restaurants, and entertainment venues.
Al Abdali’s main attractions include the King Abdullah I Mosque, a striking blue-domed landmark, and the Royal Cultural Center, which hosts concerts, performances, and exhibitions.
The area is also home to the Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts, one of the country’s most important art museums. It showcases contemporary works from Jordanian, Arab, and international artists, with a collection that spans paintings, sculptures, and photography. Meanwhile, the Martyrs’ Memorial Museum, located in the district’s western end, focuses on Jordan’s military history.
Al Abdali is a local shopping destination in Amman. It features The Boulevard, a mixed-use development with retail, dining, and residential spaces, and Abdali Mall, one of Amman’s most upscale shopping centers.
Regarding transportation, Al Abdali is well-connected by major roads, with Zahran Street and Queen Noor Street providing direct access to other parts of the city. Several bus routes serve the area, and taxis and ride-hailing services are widely available.
Staying on the district’s east end puts you within walking distance of the Old Town, making exploring its historical and cultural landmarks easy. However, Amman’s steep terrain can make walking more challenging in some areas.
Accommodation in Al Abdali consists mainly of luxury hotels, serviced apartments, and high-end residential buildings.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Al Abdali
Kaya Hotel Amman
Kaya Hotel Amman offers accommodations with a garden, free private parking, a shared lounge, and a terrace. This 4-star hotel also has room service, a sauna, hot tub, restaurant, and free WiFi.
2. Amman Old Town
The best area to stay in Amman for sightseeing and culture
Located in a valley, the Old Town is the best area to experience the city’s traditional markets, historic landmarks, and local restaurants.
Also known as Downtown or Al-Balad, the Old Town is the historical and cultural heart of the city.
Founded on the ruins of ancient settlements, the Old Town has been continuously inhabited for thousands of years, with evidence of human presence dating back to the Neolithic period. During the Greco-Roman era, it was known as Philadelphia and served as a key city in the Decapolis, a league of the ten most important cities in the Eastern Roman Empire.
This ancient district is home to some of Amman’s most important sites, including The Citadel, which features the Temple of Hercules, the Umayyad Palace, and the Jordan Archaeological Museum. Nearby, the Roman Theater is one of the largest and best-preserved in the Middle East.
Beyond its historical attractions, Old Town is known for its bustling souks, where you can find spices, textiles, and handcrafted goods. Rainbow Street, located on a nearby hill, is a popular area for cafés, restaurants, and small art galleries. Traditional Jordanian cuisine can be enjoyed at various restaurants specializing in mansaf, falafel, and kunafa.
Public transportation options include bus routes connecting Old Town to other parts of Amman, with Raghadan Al Seyaha Bus Station being a major hub. Taxis and ride-hailing services are available, though traffic congestion is common.
The district’s central location makes it easy to reach other areas, but its narrow streets and steep inclines can make walking more challenging.
Accommodation in Old Town consists mainly of midrange hotels, budget guesthouses, and boutique properties.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Downtown Amman
Beirut Hotel 2 New
Beirut Hotel 2 New is located a 2-minute walk from Al Hussainy Mosque. Featuring room service, this property also offers a terrace, a 24-hour front desk, airport transportation, a shared lounge, and free WiFi.
3. Abdoun
The best area to stay in Amman for a luxury stay
Upscale Abdoun is one of Amman’s main diplomatic and commercial areas.
Abdoun is one of Amman’s most upscale districts, known for its embassies, luxury residences, high-end shopping, and vibrant nightlife. It is divided into North Abdoun and South Abdoun, each offering a distinct atmosphere.
North Abdoun is primarily residential, with embassies such as those of Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Spain, and Mexico located in the area. The district is home to spacious villas, high-end apartment buildings, and the Orthodox Club, a private sports and social club. The Abdoun Bridge, one of Amman’s most recognizable landmarks, connects the area to the rest of the city.
South Abdoun is a commercial hub featuring the Taj Lifestyle Center, a major shopping and entertainment complex with international brands, restaurants, and a cinema. The area also has Abdoun Mall and a concentration of rooftop restaurants, pubs, and nightclubs, making it one of Amman’s main nightlife districts.
Abdoun is well-connected by major roads, with the Abdoun Corridor providing a direct route to the airport road and southern Amman. The district is served by several bus routes, and taxis and ride-hailing services are available.
Accommodation in Abdoun consists mainly of luxury hotels, serviced apartments, and private residences. It is an excellent location for business travelers and those seeking luxury.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Abdoun
Retaj Hotel
Located in Amman, a 15-minute walk from Jordan Gate Towers, Retaj Hotel provides accommodations with a shared lounge, free private parking, a terrace and a restaurant.
4. Al Swaifyeh
The best area to stay in Amman for nightlife
Al Swaifyeh is an ideal neighborhood for travelers looking for nightlife and shopping.
Al Swaifyeh is a commercial and residential district located about 3 miles (5 km) west of central Amman. It is known for its shopping streets, entertainment venues, and dining options, making it one of the busiest areas in the city.
The district is home to Al Baraka Mall, a shopping center with international brands, restaurants, and entertainment facilities. One of its main attractions is Wakalat Street, a pedestrian-only road lined with international retailers, cafés, and fashion boutiques. The Galleria Mall, another major shopping complex, offers a mix of stores, restaurants, and a supermarket.
Al Swaifyeh also has a well-developed nightlife scene, with bars, nightclubs, and rooftop lounges spread throughout the area. It is a popular destination for those looking for evening entertainment in Amman.
As an interesting fact, compared to many neighboring countries, Jordan has a more relaxed stance on nightlife, especially in Amman, where bars and nightclubs operate without major restrictions. Alcohol is legally available in licensed venues, and social nightlife is common.
The district is well-connected by major roads, with easy access to the highway leading to Queen Alia International Airport. Several bus routes serve the area, and taxis and ride-hailing services are widely available.
Accommodation in Al Swaifyeh ranges from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Al Swaifyeh
Luxury Palace Hotel
Located in Amman, a 16-minute walk from Jordan Gate Towers, Luxury Palace Hotel provides accommodations with a shared lounge, free private parking, a terrace and a restaurant.
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|ES| Las mejores zonas donde alojarse en Amán, Jordania.
