Popular backpacker hotel in downtown Amman near Roman Theater and Rainbow Street. Clean dorms and private rooms, rooftop terrace with views, friendly atmosphere, and knowledgeable staff who help plan trips. Social environment perfect for meeting other travelers.
Cliff Hotel is one of Amman's most established budget accommodation options, located in the heart of downtown in the Al-Hashimiyah area near King Faisal Street. Its position places guests within walking distance of the Roman Theatre, the Citadel, the Jordan Museum, Hashem's Restaurant — one of the city's most famous street food institutions — and the local markets and souqs that define downtown Amman's character. The hotel has been a favourite among backpackers, overland travellers, and budget-conscious visitors for many years, offering some of the most affordable beds in a central urban location.
Accommodation ranges from dormitory-style bunks with communal bathrooms to basic private rooms with or without en-suite facilities. Rooms are clean and functional, with adequate ventilation and storage space. The hostel's rooftop terrace is arguably its best feature — a relaxed communal area with views across the minarets and rooftops of the old city, particularly atmospheric at dawn and dusk.
Breakfast is available at modest cost in the common area, and kitchen facilities allow guests to prepare simple meals. The travel desk operates an informal service helping guests plan onward journeys to Petra, Wadi Rum, Aqaba, and the Dead Sea, including shared minibus bookings and tour referrals. Staff at the front desk are experienced with the questions of first-time visitors to Jordan and are known for candid, practical advice.
The social atmosphere of the hostel supports easy interaction between travellers. The common areas function as informal meeting points where routes, tips, and cost-sharing for onward travel are regularly exchanged. Long-stay guests benefit from weekly rates. Laundry service is available at additional cost, and secure storage lockers protect valuables for guests staying in dormitories.
The location suits explorers who intend to spend significant time on foot in downtown Amman and visit nearby historical sites independently without relying on organised tours.
Amenities
- rooftop terrace
- free Wi-Fi
- shared kitchen
- lockers
- travel desk
- laundry service
Location
King Faisal Street, Downtown Amman, Jordan
31.9531, 35.9372 View on map
Highlights
- Downtown location steps from the Roman Theatre, Citadel Hill, and Hashem's street food restaurant
- Rooftop terrace with sunset views across Amman's old city minarets and rooftops
- Experienced travel desk helping guests arrange affordable shared transport to Petra and Wadi Rum
- Budget dormitory and private room options at some of Amman's most competitive central prices
Tips for visiting
- Ask at the front desk about shared minibus options to Petra and the Dead Sea — these can cut transport costs significantly compared to private transfers.
- The rooftop terrace is best experienced at sunset or early morning when the light over the old city is most dramatic.
- Downtown Amman's famous Hashem's Restaurant is a three-minute walk — arrive before 9 AM or after 10 PM to avoid the longest queues.
- Bring a padlock for dormitory lockers; the hostel supplies the hasp but not the lock.
- Book private rooms well in advance during the April–May and September–October peak seasons.
When to visit
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to October) are the most comfortable seasons for exploring downtown Amman on foot. Summer days can be hot but evenings remain pleasant; winter can be cold and occasionally rainy, though the city remains accessible year-round.
Accessibility
Cliff Hotel is housed in an older downtown building with limited accessibility infrastructure. There are stairs to upper floors with no lift access, making the property unsuitable for guests with significant mobility impairments or wheelchair users. Guests with mobility considerations should contact the hotel to discuss ground-floor room availability.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
Does Cliff Hotel offer private rooms or only dormitories?
The hotel offers both dormitory beds and basic private rooms, some with shared bathrooms and some with en-suite facilities. Private rooms are more limited in number, so advance booking is recommended.
Is the hotel close to the bus station for Petra?
The JETT bus to Petra departs from the JETT office near 7th Circle, approximately 6 kilometres from Cliff Hotel. Staff can advise on the best way to reach the station by taxi or local service.
Is Cliff Hotel safe for solo female travellers?
The hostel is generally considered safe for solo female travellers and has hosted many over the years. Dormitories are typically mixed unless a female-only option is specifically requested and available — it is worth enquiring directly when booking.
Is there storage for luggage?
Yes. The hotel offers secure storage for large bags, which is useful for guests who check out but want to explore the city before departing Amman.