Jerash Archaeological Park
Step back in time at Jerash, one of the world's best-preserved Roman provincial cities, offering a breathtaking glimpse into ancient urban life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Jerash Archaeological Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Jerash, one of the world's best-preserved Roman provincial cities, offering a breathtaking glimpse into ancient urban life.
"Jerash is a true gem that deserves to be on every traveler's itinerary. You will not be disappointed."
⏳ Allow Plenty of Time
Don't rush! Jerash is huge. Plan for at least 4 hours to explore properly.
☀️ Beat the Heat
Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense midday sun and crowds.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Colonnaded Streets
Main thoroughfare
Walk the ancient Roman streets, imagining life centuries ago. The preserved columns create an immersive historical journey.
Oval Plaza
Central area
A breathtaking open space surrounded by columns, offering a grand perspective of the city's layout and architecture.
South Theater
Southern part of the park
Marvel at this remarkably preserved theater with incredible acoustics. Imagine ancient performances echoing through the stone.
Northern Theatre
Northern part of the park
Another impressive theater offering panoramic views of the archaeological park and surrounding landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Allocate Ample Time
Beat the Heat & Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Allow Plenty of Time
Don't rush! Jerash is huge. Plan for at least 4 hours to explore properly.
☀️ Beat the Heat
Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense midday sun and crowds.
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven ancient stones. :athletic_shoe:
🗣️ Consider a Guide
A guide can bring the ruins to life with historical context and stories.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow Plenty of Time
Don't rush! Jerash is huge. Plan for at least 4 hours to explore properly.
☀️ Beat the Heat
Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense midday sun and crowds.
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven ancient stones. :athletic_shoe:
🗣️ Consider a Guide
A guide can bring the ruins to life with historical context and stories.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. There are limited facilities inside. :droplet:
📸 Golden Hour Magic
The light at sunset is stunning for photos. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Jerash Archaeological Park for its incredible preservation and immersive historical experience, often calling it a 'hidden gem' of Roman history. The scale of the ruins, the stunning architecture, and the magical atmosphere, especially at sunset, are frequently highlighted as major draws. While some find the site vast and recommend ample time, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many considering it a must-see in Jordan.
"Visiting Jerash was truly an unforgettable experience! 🏛️🇯🇴
The ancient ruins are incredibly well-preserved – walking through the colonnaded streets felt like stepping back in time ⏳. The Oval Plaza ⚪ is breathtaking, and the South Theater 🎭 amazed me with its perfect acoustics. I was especially impressed by the Hippodrome 🐎, where I could almost imagine the thrill of ancient chariot races.
The site is huge, so give yourself plenty of time to explore ⌛. Every corner hides something fascinating – temples, arches, mosaics, and stunning viewpoints 🌅. The atmosphere at sunset was magical ✨.
Overall, Jerash is a must-see in Jordan – full of history, culture, and beauty. Highly recommend!"
Jana Minářová
"Came all the way from the USA 🇺🇸 to see this absolutely stunning remains of a great Roman City, and only 30 % has been excavated. The tour guide strongly recommended otherwise you will have no idea what is going on."
Huzefa Kapadia
"A very impressive site covering a large area with various temples scattered around.
One of the best preserved Roman ruins I have seen. The place looks smaller from the outside but be ready to spend at least 4 hours exploring especially if the weather is hot because you will need breaks under the shade every so often.
Don't miss visiting this place."
Joseph Tan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Jerash is about an hour's drive north of Amman. You can hire a taxi, take a private driver, or use public buses (though these can be less frequent and require more planning). Many visitors opt for a day trip from Amman.
Yes, it's possible to reach Jerash from Amman via public bus, but it requires more flexibility and time. Taxis or ride-sharing services are more convenient if you're on a tighter schedule.
While Jerash is a full-day experience for many, some travelers look to combine it with other nearby sites if using private transport. However, public transport options for combining Jerash with other cities in a single day trip are limited.
For a day trip from Amman, hiring a taxi or arranging a private driver offers the most flexibility and comfort. This allows you to control your departure and return times.
Numerous tour operators in Amman offer day trips to Jerash, often including transportation and sometimes a guided tour of the site. This is a convenient option for those who prefer not to arrange their own transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry fees can vary, but it's highly recommended to get the Jordan Pass if you plan to visit multiple sites in Jordan, as it often includes Jerash and waives visa fees. Check the official website for current pricing.
Generally, you can purchase tickets upon arrival at Jerash Archaeological Park. However, booking a guided tour in advance might be beneficial if you want a specific guide.
Opening hours typically vary by season, with longer hours during summer. It's best to check the official website or local tourist information for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
Yes, the Jordan Pass is a great value and typically includes entry to Jerash Archaeological Park, along with many other major attractions in Jordan.
Discounts may be available for students, children, or specific nationalities. The Jordan Pass is the most significant way to save if you're visiting multiple sites.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors recommend spending at least 3-4 hours to fully explore the vast site. Some history enthusiasts might spend even longer.
Jerash is a large archaeological site with uneven terrain and ancient stones. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
Yes, licensed guides are usually available for hire at the entrance. They can significantly enhance your understanding of the history and significance of the ruins.
Don't miss the Oval Plaza, the Colonnaded Streets, the South Theater (known for its acoustics), and the Temple of Artemis.
Due to the ancient and uneven terrain, Jerash is not fully wheelchair accessible. Some areas may be navigable with assistance, but it can be challenging.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon, especially during the golden hour before sunset, offers the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a magical atmosphere.
Drone usage is typically restricted at archaeological sites to preserve the heritage and for safety reasons. It's best to check with local authorities or the park management before flying a drone.
The Oval Plaza, the grand arches, the colonnaded streets, and the views from the theaters are particularly photogenic. The Northern Theatre offers a great vantage point.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the theaters. You can capture the scale and architectural details, and even test the acoustics!
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the ruins, while a telephoto lens can be useful for details. A tripod can help with low-light conditions during sunrise/sunset.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Bring plenty of snacks and water, as options inside the park are limited. Consider a shorter, focused visit if your children have shorter attention spans. The South Theater's acoustics can be a fun interactive element for kids.
🏛️ History Buffs & Archaeology Enthusiasts
Recommendations: Hire a knowledgeable guide to delve into the intricate details of the architecture, inscriptions, and historical context. Allocate ample time to explore beyond the main highlights, as even the less-visited areas offer significant insights. Consider visiting early to have more quiet time for observation and photography.
📸 Photographers
Best times for photos: Aim for the golden hours around sunrise and sunset for dramatic lighting. Early mornings also mean fewer people, allowing for unobstructed shots. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for sweeping panoramas and a prime lens for capturing details.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Roman Life
Much of the site remains unexcavated, hinting at the vastness of the original city. This means that even after spending hours exploring, there's a sense of discovery and the potential for more to be revealed. The sheer scale and the level of preservation are astonishing, making it a truly immersive historical experience.
For visitors seeking a deeper understanding, hiring a local guide is highly recommended. Guides can bring the stones to life with stories of daily life, religious practices, and the city's strategic importance during the Roman Empire. This adds a rich layer of context to the visual spectacle.
Experiencing Jerash's Acoustics
This ancient amphitheater, built in the 2nd century AD, could seat thousands of spectators and was used for performances, public gatherings, and even gladiatorial contests. Standing on the stage, you get a sense of the grandeur and the importance of public entertainment in Roman society.
Beyond the South Theater, the Northern Theatre also offers impressive architecture and panoramic views. While perhaps not as famous for its acoustics, it provides a different perspective on the city's layout and its relationship with the surrounding landscape.
Beyond the Ruins: Local Flavors
These small moments of local flavor can add a unique dimension to your visit, connecting you with the contemporary culture of the region. While the archaeological park itself is the main draw, don't hesitate to explore the modern town for local snacks and interactions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit