Amman was built upon hills—so naturally, there are plenty of great vantage points where you can take in the rolling cityscape of Jordan's capital. Here are some of the best spots to watch a sunset, sip a cocktail, or simply enjoy the scenery.

Best View for Bookworms

Coffee with a view at Books@ Café (photo courtesy of Books@ Café)

Whether you bring a book of your own or buy one when you arrive to this Jabal Amman combined café-bookshop, you may find it difficult to keep your eyes on the page. With enchanting views of the Old City in front of you and a chilled out vibe around you, Books@ Café is a welcoming place for all to enjoy—a coffee, a conversation, a piece of literature, or the views.

Omar Bin Al Khattab Street, Jabal Amman

Best View with a Mission

Origami Cranes from the ceiling at Skyline Sushi

What if you could do good while dining on sushi and enjoying a panoramic view of old and new Amman? At Skyline Sushi on the top floor of the Landmark Hotel in Shmeisani you can. In addition to serving up award-winning Japanese food, Skyline Sushi has a unique program that encourages guest participation: For every 100 origami cranes folded by diners at this Japanese restaurant, they grant the wish of a person in need. Don't fret if you don't know how to fold an origami crane; the staff is happy to teach you.

Landmark Hotel (top floor), Al Hussein Bin Ali Street

Best View for a History Lesson

Temple of Hercules against Amman city backdrop

Hike up Citadel Hill and you’ll find much more than the ancient ruins of the Temple of Hercules and Umayyad Palace. This prime spot at the center of the city provides panoramic views of Amman’s architecture and a chance to explore its past. Here you can learn about the history of Jordan’s capital and view the bustling city below. Come before sunset for cooler weather and incredible lighting.

K. Ali Ben Al-Hussein St. 146

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Best View for Art Lovers

Artwork on the terrace of Dar Al-Anda (photo courtesy of Dar Al-Anda)

At Dar Al-Anda, you can have your art and a view, too. Housed in a charming old building in Jabal Al Weibdeh, this contemporary art gallery is a welcoming space for connoisseurs, collectors, and those who are simply interested in learning more about Arabic arts. Check out the changing collections and then take in views of the Old City from the open air terrace. Dar Al-Anda aims to promote artist of the musical arts as well, so if you time your visit right, you may be able to attend an event here as well.

If you’re interested in checking out more of the city's art scene, you’ll find other suggestions in our 7 Best Art Galleries in Amman article.

3 Derar Ben Al Azwar Street, Jabal Al Weibdeh

Best Views for Happy Hour

Nightime views from Cantaloupe's terrace (photo courtesy of Cantaloupe Gastro Pub)

While a good view alone may be enough to bring a smile to your face, some of Amman’s most popular rooftop restaurants also offer happy hour food and drink specials to savor while the sun sets.

Whether or not you climb Citadel Hill, you can still enjoy views of the ruins and a massive Jordanian flag waving in the wind while sipping 25% off (from 5-7PM) cocktails, beers, or local and international wines on the Cantaloupe Gastro Pub terrace, located off Rainbow Street in Jabal Amman.  

District Urban Rooftop between 1st and 2nd Circle in Jabal Amman is another happy hour option with a casual-chic vibe, craft cocktails, and an extensive international menu—with 50% off drinks and 30% off food from 5-8PM. The lovely view of the Old City from District’s 4th-floor terrace is the cherry on top.

Cantaloupe Gastro Pub: Corner of Rainbow Street and Taher Al Juqqah Street (near First Circle); District Urban Rooftop: Zaid Ben Harethah (near Second Circle)

Best View for the Whole Family

The view from Wild Jordan Center (photo courtesy of Wild Jordan Center)

The Family Café at Wild Jordan Center is a cozy and welcoming place for all ages. Dine on healthy local and international dishes while taking in sweeping views of Citadel Hill through floor-to-ceiling windows. Wild Jordan Center is also a designated smoke-free facility—a rarity in this city—so kids can breathe free, engage in educational activities, sip on fresh fruit juices, or just lounge on a beanbag chair with a book. This is also one of the best cafés in Amman—read this article for a few more great picks. 

Othman Bin Afan Street, Jabal Amman

Best View with a Craft Brew

Views and brews from Carakale's patio (photo courtesy of Carakale Brewery)

Nature lovers and craft beer enthusiasts should go the extra mile (or rather, 12 miles) and visit Carakale Brewing Company, Jordan’s first and only craft brewery, located just outside of Amman in the Christian town of Fuheis. The views of Wadi Azraq (Blue Canyon) from the patio at Carakale are as natural as its brews that are produced using natural ingredients and no chemicals. Come for the beer; stay for the sunset.

Call ahead to confirm the tasting room is open (businesses in Jordan sometimes close unexpectedly, even during their advertised business hours), pack a picnic lunch, and make an afternoon of it. You'll need transportation, so hiring a private car or grabbing an Uber is best if you don't have wheels of your own and a designated driver. Keep in mind that the return trip can be tricky—there are not always drivers in the area so you may have to hitch a ride back to Fuheis where you can then catch a cab back into Amman. 

Fuheis, Jordan

Best Nightlife with a View

U Roof Lounge at the Regency Palace Hotel (photo courtesy of U Roof Lounge)

While many of the best views in Jordan’s capital are arguably those with an eye to the Old City, Amman does have a growing and modern nightlife scene. If you’re looking to sip and mingle, you have plenty of options. With nightly DJs and nearly 360-degree views of the city lights below, U Roof Lounge, located on the 21st-floor rooftop in the Regency Palace Hotel near Dahkliya Circle, is a popular place to dance the night away. Or belly up to Amman’s longest bar at Ghoroub Sunset Bar & Lounge in the Landmark Hotel, and watch the sparkling city lights while you smoke shisha with the locals.

Planning the rest of your day in Amman? Here's how to spend the perfect 24 hours. For more on what to do and see, check out this comprehensive guide to Amman.