Amman City Tour: A Budget-Friendly Guide
Are you ready to explore the capital city of Jordan without breaking the bank? Look no further than an Amman city tour! With its rich history, delicious food, and unique culture, Amman has something to offer every traveller. In this budget-friendly guide, we'll share our favourite sights, activities, and tips to make the most of your visit to this vibrant city. From exploring ancient ruins to trying the local cuisine, prepare for an unforgettable adventure in Amman. Let's get started!
Jordan Pass: A Budget-Friendly Entrance to Petra and Other Sites
Travelling to Jordan can be costly, but with smart planning and money-saving tips, you can experience the country without breaking the bank. One of the best ways to save money while visiting Jordan is by purchasing the Jordan Pass. This pass includes your visa and entry fee to Petra (for one, two or three days) and fees for around 40 other attractions across the country. With three categories, the pass cost ranges from 70-80 Jordanian dinars. Plus, your Jordanian visa fee will be waived if you buy the pass before your arrival and stay in the country for more than three nights.
Additionally, when it comes to food, eating at restaurants in Jordan can be expensive. To save money, head towards local markets to find all kinds of street food at fair prices. Whether you want falafel, hummus, pita with meat or fresh vegetables, you can easily grab a snack to eat on the go in between sightseeing. And since alcohol can be costly in Jordan, opt for water or juices instead. You can also try local fruits like the Medjool dates, a Jordanian speciality.
Public transportation in Jordan is also cost-effective and easy to use. Travelling by bus or sheruts (shared minivans) is a great way to get around and will save you money compared to taking a taxi. The Petra Archeological Park shuttle makes transportation to and from this site especially convenient.
It's also possible to save on accommodations by staying at a hostel rather than a hotel. Hostels offer affordable and convenient options for budget-minded travellers, and staying at one puts you in contact with like-minded people who can offer helpful tips and advice. Another way to save on accommodations is by booking locally owned boutique hotels. Rates are typically lower than chain hotels, and you may be able to negotiate the price if you book in person.
Finally, when planning your trip, consider visiting Jordan during the winter months when prices are lower and pack proper cold-weather clothing since it can get chilly and wet. With these tips, you can experience the best of Jordan on a budget and have a memorable trip. [1][2]
Finding Affordable Accommodations in Amman
Are you planning a trip to Amman but concerned about the cost of accommodations? Don't worry; there are plenty of budget-friendly options available. With so many budget-friendly hotels and motels to choose from, you don't have to break the bank for a comfortable stay in Amman. Some of the best budget-friendly hotels offer amenities such as pools, providing a great place to cool off and unwind after exploring the vibrant city. When looking for affordable places to stay, consider various factors, including the price, location, amenities, level of service, and guest ratings.
One great budget-friendly hotel option is the Conroy Boutique Hotel on Shat Al Arab Street in Umm Uthaina, just 5.8km from the city centre. With rooms starting at $57, this 3-star hotel offers excellent value and high-quality guest ratings. The hotel provides a range of amenities, including a restaurant, bar, breakfast, laundry services, and room service. Guests can enjoy stunning city views, a hot tub, free parking, and a pool table, making this an excellent option for budget travellers seeking comfort and relaxation.
Another affordable and comfortable hotel option is the Larsa Hotel. The hotel is located on Al Jandaweel 48 Um Mutaweh St. and offers nice rooms for just $60. Guests can use the hotel's pool, fitness centre, bar, restaurant, laundry services, and room service. With ratings of out of 10 from many previous guests, the hotel offers mountain and city views, a hot tub, and child care services. It's also just 8.7km from the city centre, making it a great value for budget-conscious travellers.
When considering where to stay in Amman, knowing the best tourist areas is important. Western Amman is the more liberal and tourist-friendly area, with most hostels, hotels, and nightlife located there. Amman is built on seven hills, made up of circles or roundabouts, and there are seven main areas recommended for tourists. These areas include Downtown, where you'll find budget-friendly accommodations in the centre of Amman, and Abdoun, the most modern and biggest ex-pat area in Amman.
There are also plenty of backpacker-friendly hostels throughout Amman, all centrally located and with excellent reviews. Jabal Amman is a great area for backpackers, with a range of hostels and affordable hotels available. No matter where you choose to stay in Amman, with a little research and planning, you can easily find budget-friendly accommodations without sacrificing comfort or convenience. [5][6]
Tips for Booking Locally Owned Boutique Hotels
When planning a budget-friendly Amman city tour, accommodation might be one of your biggest expenses. However, you can still find affordable options without sacrificing comfort and style. Here are some tips for booking locally owned-boutique hotels:
Consider hostels: Hostels are a great option if you're a solo traveller or don't mind sharing a room. Hostels like Jordan Tower Hotel and Rafiki Hostel provide affordable, no-frills accommodations with shared bathrooms, communal areas, and friendly staff.
Look for boutique hotels: Instead of big chain hotels, consider booking locally owned boutique hotels. These hotels offer unique and charming rooms at lower rates than their more famous counterparts. Plus, you might have the chance to interact with the hotel owner and staff, who can give you insider tips on the city.
Book in person: Booking in person might not always be possible, but it can save you money. Boutique hotels often have flexible rates that can be negotiated in person, especially if the hotel is not fully booked.
Consider the location: To save money on transportation, consider staying in a centrally located hotel. This way, you can walk to most sights and attractions, saving money on taxis and buses.
Read reviews: Before booking a hotel, read reviews from previous guests. This can give you an idea of what to expect and help you avoid unpleasant surprises. Look for reviews that mention cleanliness, comfort, and value for money.
Book early: Booking early can save you money on accommodations. Boutique hotels often have limited rooms, so if you book early, you might be able to secure a lower rate.
Following these tips, you can find affordable and charming accommodations for your Amman city tour. Don't be afraid to explore different options and compare rates. With some research and planning, you can have a comfortable and budget-friendly stay in Amman. [7][8]
Winter Travel in Jordan: Savings and Challenges
Looking to explore Jordan on a budget? Although Jordan is not typically considered a budget-friendly destination, making a few adjustments to your itinerary is possible to save money. Consider purchasing the Jordan Pass, which includes the cost of entrance to Petra, visa fees, and fees at around 40 other sites across the country. Visiting during the winter can also help you save money on accommodations and tours, as the crowds thin out and prices drop from November to February. Be prepared for cold and wet weather, as winters in Jordan can be chilly and rainy. Pack proper cold-weather clothing and avoid visiting in January, typically the wettest and coldest month of the year. [3][4]
Free Activities in Amman: Exploring the City on a Budget
Are you a budget-conscious traveller planning a visit to Amman? Don't worry. There are plenty of free activities to explore the city without breaking the bank. Here are some tips for a budget-friendly visit to the bustling modern city of Amman.
1. Visit the Citadel and Archaeological Museum
Start your city tour by visiting the Citadel, one of Amman's most famous historical sites. The Citadel contains remains from the Roman to the early Islamic period and offers stunning city views. Adjacent to the Citadel is the Archaeological Museum, which houses an excellent collection of several Dead Sea Scrolls. Both attractions offer free admission, so you can explore Jordan's rich history without spending a dime.
2. Stroll through the Souq and Roman Theater
After visiting the Citadel and Archaeological Museum, stroll through the Souq to get an idea of everyday life in Amman. The Souq is home to various shops, cafes, and restaurants and offers a vibrant and colourful experience. From the Souq, head over to the Roman Theater, which is situated in downtown Amman. Built-in the 2nd century, the theatre has 6,000 seats and offers a fascinating glimpse into Jordan's past.
3. Explore the Free Museums
Jordan has many archaeological and historic sites and museums showcasing ancient treasures. Fortunately, some of these museums offer free admission, which makes them an excellent opportunity for budget-conscious travellers. Some free museums in Amman include the Umm Qays Museum, Mazar Islamic Museum, and The Museum of Jordanian Heritage.
4. Enjoy the Street Food
One of the best ways to dine on a budget in Jordan is to enjoy street food. Jordan's street food is cheap and delicious, from hot and crispy falafel to shawarma and hummus. Eating mezze-style, a meal of many small dishes and salads is also an excellent way to explore and taste Jordan's cuisine on a budget.
5. Shop at Souq Markets
Exploring the Souqs (markets) is a must-do activity in Jordan. From fresh fruits and vegetables to nuts and spices, there are plenty of options to stock up on some basic ingredients while travelling. Prices in the souq are inexpensive and often negotiable, making it the perfect place for those looking to explore Jordan on a budget. Just remember to bring cash because most souqs don't accept cards.
Exploring the city of Amman doesn't have to break the bank. By following these tips, you can enjoy Jordan's rich culture, history, and cuisine without spending too much money. So pack your bags, put on your walking shoes, and prepare for an unforgettable budget-friendly trip to Amman. [9][10]