National Geographic in Tafilah: 6 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Amman

Must-try foods in Amman

• Mansaf
  MansafJordan's national dish and a symbol of Bedouin hospitality. It features tender lamb cooked in a rich, tangy sauce of 'jameed' (fermented, sun-dried yogurt), served over a large platter of yellow rice and thin 'shrak' bread, then topped with toasted pine nuts and almonds. In Jabal Amman, Sufra and Al-Quds are the most iconic spots for an authentic experience.
• Falafel Al-Quds
  Falafel Al-QudsA legendary snack specific to Jabal Amman's Rainbow Street. These deep-fried chickpea balls are known for being exceptionally light and herb-forward. While often eaten on their own, the classic 'sandwich' style—stuffed into sesame ka'ak bread with hard-boiled eggs, fries, and spicy 'shatta'—is a local rite of passage.
• Musakhan
  MusakhanA Palestinian-influenced dish that is a local favorite in Jabal Amman. It features roasted chicken seasoned heavily with sumac and sautéed onions, served on thick 'taboon' bread that has soaked up the olive oil and chicken juices. It's often garnished with pine nuts and served with a side of fresh yogurt.
• Fattet Hummus
  Fattet HummusA popular breakfast specialty that elevates standard hummus into a warm, layered delicacy. It combines pieces of torn bread soaked in chickpea broth, creamy hummus, tahini, and lemon juice, often topped with sizzling ghee and pine nuts. It’s a signature dish at the historic Hashem Restaurant nearby and local Jabal Amman brunch spots.
• Galayet Bandora
  Galayet BandoraA simple yet beloved traditional dish of tomatoes sautéed with garlic, olive oil, and green chili peppers. It can be served plain or with cubes of beef. This 'village-style' dish is a staple at traditional eateries like Shams El Balad, where it's served in a rustic clay skillet and eaten by scooping with warm pita bread.
• Kibbeh Nayeh
  Kibbeh NayehA Levantine delicacy frequently served at upscale Jabal Amman institutions like Fakhreldin. It is a lamb tartare mixed with fine bulgur, onions, and a complex blend of spices. It's served raw, drizzled with high-quality Jordanian olive oil, and eaten with fresh mint and onions.

Trip guide

• About Amman
  About AmmanJabal Amman is one of the original seven hills that formed the city of Amman, Jordan. Located near the downtown area, it serves as a center for historical architecture and traditional Jordanian culture. Historical Heritage The district developed significantly in the early 20th century after Amman became the capital of the Emirate of Transjordan in 1921.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Jabal Amman is during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) when temperatures are mild and ideal for walking the hilly Rainbow Street. Summer can be intensely hot with highs exceeding 32°C (90°F), while winter is often cold and rainy, occasionally seeing snow. To avoid the largest crowds and peak prices, aim for the shoulder months of April or October.
• Getting around
  Getting around Amman

  • Ride-Hailing Apps (Uber and Careem) The most efficient way to reach Jabal Amman from Queen Alia International Airport or other districts. These apps provide upfront pricing and GPS navigation.
  • Yellow Taxis Ubiquitous throughout the city, these taxis can be hailed from the street to get to Rainbow Street or First Circle. Ensure the driver uses the meter (fals) to guarantee a fair price for short trips between the.
  • Walking and Public Stairs Once in Jabal Amman, the best way to explore is on foot. The neighborhood is famous for its historic stone staircases that connect the upper streets to Downtown (Al-Balad).
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip to navigate the steep, uneven stone staircases and hills connecting Rainbow Street to the downtown area.
  • Expect a 10% service charge and 7% tax on restaurant bills, but it is customary to leave an additional small cash tip for the server.
  • Dress in modest smart-casual attire to respect local norms while visiting the neighborhood's many galleries, cafes, and historical villas.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Amman

  • Souk Jara 2026: The iconic seasonal outdoor market in Jabal Amman, trending for its local artisan crafts and street performances.
  • Yalla Walk Jabal Amman: Viral community-led social walks and themed 'Games Nights' at the 1st Circle community hub.
• Visit Jordan↗
  Visit JordanThe official tourism website for the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, providing travel guides, attraction details, and visitor information for the entire country.