The capital city of Jordan provides an excellent base for exploring sites like Petra, the Dead Sea and Wadi Rum. But Amman – once the capital of Greek Philadelphia – has many wonders in store for visitors in itself. Climb one of its seven hilltops to view the pillars of the Roman Temple of Hercules and the grand dome of the eighth-century Umayyad Palace complex within the city’s historic Citadel, as well as the hillside second-century stone amphitheatre. This metropolis is also a modern, wealthy place, with plenty of high-end hotels. Here are our recommendations, when travelling to the ancient Middle Eastern land of Jordan.
Four Seasons Hotel Amman
In a leafy, hilltop district, the Four Seasons offers guests its signature elegance and a Forbes Five-Star rating. Rooms range from premium deluxes for three to a presidential suite accommodating up to six. After a hot day’s sightseeing, go for a serene dip in the pool or book one of the therapeutic rituals at the spa, which utilise indigenous ingredients from the Dead Sea. Brunch at Olea, lunch al fresco at the Five Grill, take a traditional afternoon tea in the Foyer Lounge, dine on French classics at la Capitale and sip cocktails at Stirr.
St Regis Amman
Found in the district of Abdoun, the St Regis has 258 bedrooms, suites, and serviced apartments, all with the benefit of butler service. While it’s part of an international chain, the property places a strong focus on local culture, showcasing artworks from across the Levant region. The dining options also reflect this, with Middle Eastern as well as Asian fusion and European eateries — whether you stay here or elsewhere, do have a meal at Segreta; set in a secret garden, it’s a beautiful oasis. Once you’ve indulged your sense of taste, cater for your sense of touch and smell, with a custom treatment package at the sleek Iridium Spa.
Hotel Fairmont Amman
Head to the Fifth Circle where you can check into the Fairmont. Here you can recline on a colourful lounger beside the outdoor pool and admire the skyline. The building accommodates 317 spacious hotel rooms and suites, Willow Stream Spa, an indoor dead sea float pool, a kids club and the city’s only day-light ballroom. Jordanian food is served at Nasim, Pan-Asian at Tsuki, buffet breakfasts at Nur and steak at Salt. Champers and fine teas can be enjoyed in Crystal, with late-night drinks and top music at the vibrant Caprice bar and club.
Kempinski Amman
Many visit the city for work and as the Kempinski is situated in Shmeisani, the central business district, and close to the Jordan Gate Towers, it’s an ideal choice. Offering a classic take on luxury, each bedroom provides a seating area, a pillow menu and a marble bathroom, with suites equipped with separate living areas and access to an executive lounge. In addition to eating and drinking options at Via Appia Restaurant, the sports bar and Le Cafe Lounge and Terrace, there’s the Kempi Spa, a billiards room, eight bowling lanes, a heated outdoor pool, parking and a playground.
W Amman
This bold and funky hotel is right next to the Abdali Mall, in trendy downtown Abdali. Guests staying here can laze on muslin-slung daybeds suspended over water (colourfully lit for Insta-worthy photos after dark), soak in panoramic views through floor-to-ceiling bedroom windows, party across three floors at the Aura club, eat sushi at Enso, take yoga classes on the terrace and view pop-art art exhibitions. 280 bedrooms feature W’s signature beds, Bliss® amenities, Illy Coffee, board games and a Mix Bar for in-room late-night nibbles. W also has a spa and is a pet-friendly hotel.
