Often referred to as the Pompeii of the East, Jerash is one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world. Located in northern Jordan, about an hour’s drive from Amman, Jerash offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the grandeur of Roman architecture, with impressive temples, theaters, plazas, and colonnaded streets. Originally known as Gerasa, this ancient city flourished during the Roman period and remains a remarkable testament to the empire’s legacy in the region.
Amman - Jordan
Private Tours
Amman - Jordan
Multi-Day Trips
Amman - Jordan
Adventures
Day Trips
Amman - Jordan
Day Trips
Guided Tours
Amman - Jordan
Day Trips
Amman - Jordan
Day Trips
Amman - Jordan
Day Trips
Amman - Jordan
Day Trips
Private Tours
Amman - Jordan
Adventures
Day Trips
Amman - Jordan
Adventures
Day Trips
Amman - Jordan
Adventures
Multi-Day Trips
Amman - Jordan
Adventures
Day Trips
Amman - Jordan
Guided Tours
Multi-Day Trips
Jerash is open daily, with visiting hours from 8 AM to 6 PM in summer and 8 AM to 4 PM in winter. Entry costs 12 JOD per person, and guided tours are available at the entrance for an additional fee. The site covers a large area, so plan to spend 2 to 3 hours exploring its key attractions, including Hadrian’s Arch, the Oval Plaza, the Temple of Artemis, and the two Roman theaters. There’s a small museum near the entrance displaying artifacts excavated from the site, offering further insight into Jerash’s rich history.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the site involves a lot of walking on uneven terrain. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water, especially if visiting during the warmer months. Hiring a guide is highly recommended, as they can provide historical context and stories that bring the ruins to life. If you’re lucky, you might catch a performance of the Jerash Chariot Race, a reenactment featuring gladiators and Roman cavalry (check the schedule in advance). There are souvenir shops and small cafes near the entrance for snacks and refreshments.
Jerash is located about 50 km north of Amman, and the drive takes approximately 1 hour via the Jerash Highway. The most convenient way to get there is by car or taxi. Ride-hailing apps like Careem and Uber can also be used for the trip. If you’re traveling on a budget, public buses run from Amman’s North Bus Station to Jerash, but they may be less frequent. Many tour operators in Amman offer half-day or full-day trips to Jerash, often combined with nearby attractions like Ajloun Castle.
The best time to visit Jerash is during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and ideal for walking around the ruins. Summers can be hot, with temperatures exceeding 35°C, so early morning visits are recommended during this season. Winter is also a good time to visit, but occasional rain may affect outdoor exploration. If possible, try to visit during the Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts, held annually in July, featuring concerts, dance performances, and poetry readings among the ancient ruins.