As Dubai races towards summer (is it just us or has it come early this year), we're looking for close by destinations that let us escape the heat, even if only for the weekend. Just a short flight from Dubai, Amman, Jordan offers the kind of weekend escape that feels both grounding and inspiring. It’s a city of contrasts, Roman ruins set against minimalist cafes, Bedouin craft alongside contemporary art. For the design-savvy traveler who loves subtle luxury and soulful experiences, Amman delivers a perfectly curated 72-hour reset.

Day 1: Arrival + Creative Corners

Check in:
The House Boutique Suites
Stylish, intimate, and centrally located, this boutique hotel blends local character with international comfort. Expect curated art, plush linens, and a rooftop pool with sweeping city views.

Coffee & Culture Stop:
Rumi Cafe
An institution in Weibdeh. Order a cardamom latte or herbal tea and sit under the olive trees. This spot attracts artists, writers, and quiet thinkers — a great soft landing into the city.

Rumi Cafe

Afternoon: Art + Exploration

  • Visit Darat al Funun, an art foundation nestled in historic villas with gardens overlooking the city. Contemporary Arab art meets ancient ruins.
  • Wander around Jabal Al Weibdeh, a walkable, creative neighborhood filled with tiny galleries, artisan shops, and serene hilltop views.
Darat al Funun

Dinner:
Fakhr El-Din
Old-school elegance meets Levantine abundance. Opt for a mezze spread, grilled lamb, and local arak — it’s the kind of dinner that goes on for hours.

Day 2: Heritage Meets Modernity

Morning:
Wild Jordan Center
Breakfast with a view of old Amman and the Citadel. Try their za’atar eggs or the organic oat bowl. The center also features locally made, eco-conscious goods — a great place for souvenirs.

Late Morning: History Fix

  • Visit the Amman Citadel and Roman Theater — both iconic, photogenic, and surprisingly peaceful in the early morning light.
  • If you’re into textures and antiques, stop by Souk Al Juma’a (Friday market) for vintage finds and people-watching.
Amman Citadel

Lunch:
Shams El Balad
A beautiful concept cafe built in a 1930s villa with pastel interiors, local ingredients, and slow, conscious cooking. The tabbouleh and roasted eggplant are a must.

Afternoon Wind Down:
The MMAG Foundation
A minimalist cultural space combining art exhibitions, design objects, and a rooftop café. Quiet, airy, and refreshingly modern.

Evening:
JR The Wine Experience
Jordan’s wine scene is tiny but growing. Taste locally produced wines in a chic, gallery-style tasting room, very unexpected, very cool.

Dinner:
Sufra
Dinner under lemon trees and fairy lights on Rainbow Street. Home-style Jordanian dishes with a polished twist. Don’t miss the lamb mansaf or eggplant fatteh.

Day 3: Escape the City (Just a Little)

Morning Drive:
The Dead Sea (~45 mins from Amman)
Float in healing waters, book a spa treatment, or simply lounge at a five-star resort for the morning. Kempinski and Mövenpick are great for day access with luxury perks.

Optional Add-On:
Want something more remote? Swap the Dead Sea for a trip to Madaba and Mount Nebo, where mosaic churches and panoramic views make for a meaningful cultural detour.

Late Lunch (Back in Amman):
Blue Fig
A chic neighborhood favorite with a globally-inspired menu and a crowd of stylish locals. Great salads, espresso, and a breezy terrace.

Last-Minute Shopping:

  • Beit Sitti: Not just a cooking school, also a great stop for handmade food goods and cultural charm.
  • Jordan River Designs: For handwoven textiles, ceramics, and ethical pieces made by local artisans.

Departure:
Head back to the airport with your camera roll full and your spirit reset.

Amman isn’t about showy luxury, it’s about quiet beauty, intentional experiences, and timeless culture. It’s the kind of place that leaves an impression long after you’ve gone, a perfect weekend getaway for those who appreciate design, depth, and discovery.

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