1-Day Outdoor Adventure with Friends in Jerash, Jordan

Jerash, Jordan

1 days

Ancient Roman theater
Ancient Nymphaneum
Hadrian's Arch
Aerial view of the ancient Roman city at sunset
Ruins of the ancient Roman town

About Jerash, Jordan

Discover the ancient city of Jerash, Jordan, a hidden treasure of the Middle East. As one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman cities, Jerash offers a journey back in time with its colonnaded streets, hilltop temples, amphitheaters, and spacious public squares. Marvel at the grandeur of Hadrian's Arch, built to honor the visit of Emperor Hadrian. Experience the thrill of the Jerash Festival, a cultural extravaganza showcasing local music, dance, and traditional crafts. Enjoy the local cuisine, rich with flavors of the Middle East. With its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, Jerash promises an unforgettable travel experience.

1-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Ancient City of Jerash

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the ancient city of Jerash. Known as the 'Pompeii of the East', Jerash is one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman cities in the world. Explore the Oval Plaza, the Cardo Maximus, and the South Theatre, and marvel at the intricate details of the ancient architecture.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Jordanian lunch in a local restaurant. Try the national dish, Mansaf, a hearty meal of lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt and served over rice.

Afternoon

After lunch, continue your exploration of Jerash. Visit the Temple of Artemis and the Jerash Archaeological Museum, where you can see a collection of artifacts from the city's long history. Don't miss the chance to walk through the ancient Roman streets and imagine life in the city thousands of years ago.

Dinner

For dinner, experience the local cuisine in a traditional Jordanian restaurant. Try dishes like Maqluba, a one-pot dish with meat, rice, and vegetables, or Zarb, a Bedouin-style barbecue.

Evening

End your day with a leisurely stroll through the city, enjoying the cool evening air and the city lights. Take the opportunity to do some shopping in the local markets, where you can find traditional Jordanian crafts and souvenirs.

Attractions in Itinerary (6)

Jerash

1
Jerash

Jerash is a city in Jordan, north of the capital Amman. Inhabited since the Bronze Age, it’s known for the ruins of the walled Greco-Roman settlement of Gerasa just outside the modern city. These include the 2nd-century Hadrian’s Arch, the Corinthian columns of the Temple of Artemis and the huge Forum’s oval colonnade.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Landmarks
Oval Plaza

2
Oval Plaza

A unique oval-shaped forum surrounded by a colonnade, a distinctive feature of the ancient city's layout.

Attractions
Landmarks
Architecture
Cardo Maximus

3
Cardo Maximus

The city's main thoroughfare, lined with columns and leading to many of its major attractions.

Attractions
Landmarks
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
South Theatre

4
South Theatre

The South Theatre is a well-preserved Roman structure in the ancient city of Jerash. It was built during the reign of Emperor Domitian, between 90-92AD, to seat more than 3000 spectators. The first level of the ornate stage, which originally had two additional levels, has been reconstructed and is still used today.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Landmarks
Temple of Artemis

5
Temple of Artemis

Dedicated to the patron goddess of the city, this temple is one of the most significant structures in Jerash, featuring towering columns and intricate carvings.

Attractions
Monuments
Religious Sites
Architecture
Jerash Archaeological Museum

6
Jerash Archaeological Museum

Houses a large collection of artifacts discovered in the ancient city, including statues, coins, and mosaics, providing a glimpse into the city's rich history.

Attractions
Museums
Cultural Experiences

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Mansaf

Mansaf

Mansaf is the national dish of Jordan, made of lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt and served with rice or bulgur. It's a must-try when visiting Jerash.

Maqluba

Maqluba

Maqluba is a traditional Jordanian dish that includes meat, rice, and fried vegetables cooked in a pot, which is then flipped upside down when served, hence the name maqluba, which translates literally as 'upside-down'.

Zarb

Zarb

Zarb is a Bedouin style barbecue, where meat and vegetables are slow-cooked in an underground sand oven. It's a unique culinary experience in Jerash.

Shawarma

Shawarma

Shawarma is a popular street food in Jerash, made of thinly sliced cuts of meat, like chicken, beef, or lamb, rolled into a large piece of flatbread or pita.

Falafel

Falafel

Falafel is a deep-fried ball or patty made from ground chickpeas, fava beans, or both. It's a common street food in Jerash, often served in a pita.

Hummus

Hummus

Hummus is a Levantine dip or spread made from cooked, mashed chickpeas blended with tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. It's a staple food in Jerash.

Tabbouleh

Tabbouleh

Tabbouleh is a Levantine vegetarian salad made mostly of finely chopped parsley, with tomatoes, mint, onion, bulgur, and seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper.

Knafeh

Knafeh

Knafeh is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert made with thin noodle-like pastry, or alternatively fine semolina dough, soaked in sweet, sugar-based syrup, and typically layered with cheese.

Baklava

Baklava

Baklava is a rich, sweet dessert pastry made of layers of filo filled with chopped nuts and sweetened and held together with syrup or honey. It's a popular dessert in Jerash.

Arabic Coffee

Arabic Coffee

Arabic Coffee, also known as 'qahwa', is a symbol of Arab hospitality. It's made from coffee beans roasted very lightly or heavily from 165 to 210 °C and cardamom, and is a traditional beverage in Jerash.

Mint Tea

Mint Tea

Mint Tea is a traditional and popular drink in Jerash, often served after meals. It's made with fresh mint leaves and black or green tea.

Arak

Arak

Arak is a Levantine alcoholic spirit, clear and colorless, and traditionally made of grapes and aniseed. It's a popular drink in Jerash, often consumed with mezze.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Jerash, Jordan is during the spring months of March to May, when the weather is mild and the landscapes are lush and green. Alternatively, autumn, from September to November, is also a great time to visit as the temperatures are comfortable and the tourist crowds are smaller. During these periods, you can fully enjoy the ancient ruins and outdoor activities that Jerash offers.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

April 10

Wed

Eid al-Fitr

April 11

Thu

Eid al-Fitr holiday

April 12

Fri

Eid al-Fitr holiday

April 13

Sat

Eid al-Fitr holiday

May 1

Wed

Labour Day

May 25

Sat

Independence Day

June 15

Sat

Arafah

June 16

Sun

Eid al-Adha

June 17

Mon

Eid al-Adha holiday

June 18

Tue

Eid al-Adha holiday

June 19

Wed

Eid al-Adha holiday

July 7

Sun

Muharram/New Year

September 15

Sun

Prophet's Birthday

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Jerash is a small city and can be easily navigated by car. Car rentals are available from Amman, the capital of Jordan, which is about 48 kilometers away. This gives you the flexibility to explore the city at your own pace.

Taxis are readily available and can be hailed from the street. They are a convenient way to get around Jerash, especially if you are not comfortable driving in a foreign country. Always ensure the meter is running to avoid being overcharged.

There are regular bus services from Amman to Jerash. Once in the city, you can walk to most of the tourist attractions as they are located close to each other.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Careem operate in Jordan. You can use these services to travel to Jerash from Amman or to get around within the city. They offer a convenient and often cheaper alternative to traditional taxis.

Many tour operators offer guided tours to Jerash from Amman. These tours typically include transportation, a guide, and sometimes meals. This is a hassle-free way to explore the city, especially if you are short on time.

Jerash is known for its ancient Roman ruins, which are best explored on foot. The city is compact and most of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking allows you to take in the sights at your own pace and offers opportunities for great photos.

Bicycles can be rented in Jerash for those who prefer a more active mode of transportation. This is a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city. However, be aware that the terrain can be hilly and the weather hot, especially in the summer months.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currencyد.ا JOD

Time zoneUTC+2

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 191; Fire: 193; Police: 192

Drinking waterYes, but some opt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type DPower socket type F

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Jerash, Jordan as a first time visitor

1

Jerash is located in the north of Jordan, approximately 48 kilometers north of the capital Amman.

2

The official language is Arabic, but English is widely spoken and understood, especially in tourist areas.

3

The local currency is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). Credit cards are accepted in most places, but it's always good to carry some cash.

4

Jordan is predominantly a Muslim country, so it's important to respect local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

5

The best time to visit Jerash is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild. Summers can be hot with temperatures reaching up to 95°F (35°C), and winters can be cold with temperatures dropping to around 41°F (5°C).

6

Jerash is known for its safety and hospitality. However, like any other tourist destination, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.

7

Public transportation is available, but it's not very reliable. Taxis and car rentals are the most convenient ways to get around.

8

Jordanian cuisine is a must-try. Popular dishes include Mansaf (lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt) and Maqluba (a dish with rice, meat, and vegetables).

9

Tap water is generally safe to drink, but bottled water is recommended for tourists to avoid any potential stomach upset.

10

It's customary to tip around 10% in restaurants, but it's not mandatory.

11

Jordan uses the Eastern European Time Zone (EET), which is 2 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+2).

12

The standard voltage in Jordan is 230 V, and the frequency is 50 Hz. The power plugs and sockets are of type C, D, F, G, and J.

13

It's important to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, as healthcare can be expensive.

14

Jerash is not a duty-free zone, so be aware of your allowances when shopping.

15

Public displays of affection are frowned upon, especially between unmarried couples.

16

Smoking is common in Jordan, but it's banned in public places. However, this rule is not strictly enforced.

17

Alcohol is available in licensed restaurants and bars, but public drunkenness is heavily frowned upon.

18

Friday is a day of rest in Jordan, so many businesses and attractions may be closed.

19

Always ask for permission before taking photographs of locals, especially women.

20

Jerash hosts the Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts, a popular event that showcases traditional Jordanian and Middle Eastern music and dance. If your visit coincides with this festival, it's worth attending.

Basic Arabic to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

مرحبا

Marhaba

Greeting someone

Goodbye

وداعا

Wadaeaan

Leaving someone

Thank you

شكرا

Shukran

Showing gratitude

You're welcome

على الرحب و السعة

Ala al-rahb wa al-sa'a

Responding to thank you

Please

من فضلك

Min fadlak

Making a request

Excuse me

عفوا

Afuwan

Getting someone's attention

Yes

نعم

Naam

Agreeing or confirming

No

لا

La

Disagreeing or denying

I don't understand

لا أفهم

La afham

When you don't understand what was said

Do you speak English?

هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟

Hal tatakallam al-ingliziya?

Asking if someone speaks English

I need help

أحتاج مساعدة

Ahtaj musa'ada

When you need assistance

Where is the bathroom?

أين الحمام؟

Ayna al-hammam?

Looking for a bathroom

How much does this cost?

بكم هذا؟

Bikam hadha?

Asking for the price of something

I'm sorry

أنا آسف

Ana asef

Apologizing

Can I have the menu, please?

هل يمكنني الحصول على القائمة، من فضلك؟

Hal yumkinuni al-husul ala al-qaima, min fadlak?

Asking for the menu in a restaurant

Water

ماء

Maa

Asking for water

Food

طعام

Taam

Talking about food

Taxi

تاكسي

Taksi

Looking for a taxi

Hotel

فندق

Fanduq

Looking for a hotel

Help!

النجدة!

Al-najda!

In case of emergency

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Scarf for covering shoulders in religious sites

  • Sweater or light jacket for cooler evenings

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-sized sunscreen

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Travel-sized toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, body wash)

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Personal hygiene items

  • Prescription medications

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Visa if required

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel booking confirmation

  • Local currency (Jordanian Dinar)

  • Credit and/or debit card

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Power bank for charging devices on the go

  • Camera

  • Memory card for camera

  • Travel adapter for Jordanian outlets

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Snacks for the day

  • Travel guidebook for Jordan

  • Map of Jerash

  • Backpack or daypack

  • First aid kit

Weather Conditions

Jerash, Jordan, is known for its Mediterranean climate, which means it experiences hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. If you're planning a trip to Jerash, it's essential to consider the time of year. The summer months, from June to August, can be quite hot, with temperatures often reaching up to 90°F (32°C). Therefore, if you're not a fan of high heat, it might be best to avoid these months. However, if you do decide to visit during this time, remember to stay hydrated and wear sun protection, such as hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. The winter months, from December to February, are much cooler, with temperatures often dropping to around 50°F (10°C). Rain is also more common during this time, so packing a raincoat or umbrella would be advisable. Despite the cooler weather, winter can be a great time to visit Jerash as the tourist crowds are smaller and the ancient ruins can be explored in relative peace. The spring and autumn months offer more moderate temperatures, making them an ideal time to visit. During these seasons, temperatures typically range between 60°F and 75°F (15°C and 24°C). These periods also offer a beautiful change in scenery, with spring bringing blooming flowers and autumn showcasing a palette of warm colors. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip to ensure you pack appropriately. Also, remember that the weather can change quickly, especially in the winter, so it's always good to be prepared for different conditions.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

13° / 3°

January is the coldest month in Jerash, with temperatures often dropping to 3°C. It's a great time to visit if you prefer cooler weather.

February

14° / 4°

February sees a slight increase in temperature, but it's still quite chilly. Pack warm clothes if you're visiting during this month.

March

16° / 6°

March marks the beginning of spring in Jerash. The weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 6°C to 16°C.

April

19° / 9°

April is a great month to visit Jerash, as the weather is warm but not too hot. Expect temperatures between 9°C and 19°C.

May

23° / 13°

May is the start of the hot season in Jerash. The weather is warm, with temperatures ranging from 13°C to 23°C.

June

26° / 16°

June is a hot month in Jerash, with temperatures often reaching 26°C. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy the heat.

July

28° / 18°

July is the hottest month in Jerash. If you're visiting during this month, be prepared for temperatures up to 28°C.

August

28° / 18°

August is also a hot month in Jerash, with temperatures similar to July. It's a great time to visit if you love the sun.

September

26° / 16°

September marks the beginning of the cooler season in Jerash. The weather is still warm, but not as hot as the summer months.

October

23° / 13°

October is a pleasant month in Jerash, with moderate temperatures. It's a great time to visit if you prefer milder weather.

November

19° / 9°

November sees a drop in temperature, but it's still quite pleasant. Pack some warm clothes if you're visiting during this month.

December

15° / 5°

December is a cool month in Jerash, with temperatures often dropping to 5°C. It's a great time to visit if you prefer cooler weather.

Did you know?

Did you know that Jerash, Jordan is considered one of the largest and most well-preserved sites of Roman architecture outside Italy?

1 of 10

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