Jerash Travel Guide: Exploring the Ancient Roman City of Jordan

Compared to Petra, Jerash is less physically demanding but just as impressive in terms of history and preservation.

Unlike Petra or Wadi Rum, Jerash isn’t about long hikes or dramatic cliffs.
It’s about stepping into a real Roman city that somehow survived 2,000 years — streets, plazas, theaters, temples, everything still there.

And the best part?
It’s only 45–50 minutes from Amman, so it’s one of the easiest day trips you can take.

Our Half-Day Itinerary in Jerash

Arriving Early

We left Amman after breakfast and reached Jerash just before the tour buses arrived.
If you want calm photos and soft light, this is the best time after near sunset time.

We parked near the main gate, grabbed water, we had to go through the small local market there which has souvenirs related to Jerash and Jordan, then buying the tickets.
After that we started walking toward Hadrian’s Arch — the huge ceremonial gateway that looks like a Roman triumph scene.

Right there, the trip already felt worth it.

Hadrian’s Arch to Hippodrome

Standing under Hadrian’s Arch, you instantly feel the scale of Jerash.

A short walk brings you to the Hippodrome, where chariot races used to take place.
It’s massive. We sat on the stone steps for a moment imagining the noise of 15,000 people watching the races.

Entering the Ancient City

Through the South Gate, the Roman world opens up.

You walk into the Oval Plaza, one of the most beautiful spots in the whole site — a huge oval surrounded by 56 standing columns.
Karolina took photos from every angle here because the symmetry is insane.

This is where Jerash starts to feel alive.

Climbing the Temple of Zeus

From the Oval Plaza, we climbed the stairs to the Temple of Zeus.
The view is one of the best in the city — you see the whole plaza below, the Cardo stretching to the north, and the green hills surrounding Jerash.

We stayed there a while because it’s one of those places where time slows down.

Walking the Cardo (Main Street)

Next, we walked along the Cardo, the colonnaded Roman street that still has chariot wheel marks carved into the stones.

If you love photography, this street is gold:

• Perfect lines of columns

• Light and shadows

• A real “ancient city” perspective

It’s one of the longest preserved Roman streets in the world.

Slow Walk Back & Sunset

We walked the Cardo one more time on the way back.
As the sun started to drop, the columns turned golden — honestly, it felt like walking in a dream.

We left Jerash feeling like we had just explored a forgotten Roman world.

This Jerash travel guide is based on our personal visit to one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world.

Jerash, also known as Gerasa, is an easy day trip from Amman and a must-see for anyone exploring northern Jordan.

The Nymphaeum to North Theater

After lunch we re-entered and continued toward the Nymphaeum, the beautifully decorated public fountain.

A short walk later is the North Theater, smaller and quieter than the South Theater.
It’s a peaceful spot to take a break away from the crowds.

The South Theater

Down the hill is the South Theater, where you might hear a Jordanian bagpiper playing traditional music.
It’s a fun surprise, especially for families and kids.

We sat at the top row — amazing acoustics and great panorama.

How Much Time Do You Need?

A relaxed visit like ours takes 3-4 hours.
If you're in a hurry, you can see the highlights in 2-3 hours, but Jerash feels better when you take it slowly.

Many travelers combine Jerash with Ajloun Castle and Forest Reserve, which is located only 30 minutes away and offers beautiful views over northern Jordan.

While Jerash is one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world, it offers a very different experience compared to Petra — you can read our full Petra travel guide to see how the two ancient cities compare.

Exploring the Roman City of Gerasa – Our Personal Half-Day Itinerary

Quick History of Jerash (Gerasa)

Jerash was one of the largest and most important cities of the Decapolis, a group of 10 Roman cities in the region.

Highlights of its history:

• Founded around the 2nd century BC

• Became wealthy under Roman rule

• Famous for temples, theaters, and trade

• Hit by earthquakes but well-preserved

• Rediscovered in the 1800s
  

Today, it’s one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the entire world, even better than many sites in Italy.

What Makes Jerash Special?

• It’s massive — a full city, not just ruins.

• So well-preserved it feels alive.

• Perfect for photographers.

• Easy day trip from Amman.

• Great for couples, backpackers, and families with kids.
  

The city has hills, views, plazas, and pathways that make it fun to explore.

Entrance Fees & Practical Info

• Jordan Pass: free

• Foreign visitors: 12 JOD

• Jordanians/residents: 1 JOD

• Opening Hours:

  • Summer: 8:00–19:00

  • Winter: 8:00–17:00
    

Wear comfortable shoes — the stones can be slippery, especially after rain.

How to Reach Jerash From Amman:

By Car:

30–45 minutes, easy drive.

By JETT Bus:

Seasonal — check online before planning.

Tip: Jerash & Ajloun in One Day

If you plan to visit Jerash and Ajloun on the same day, most tourists start with Jerash in the morning and continue to Ajloun in the afternoon — this is the classic route followed by JETT Bus tours.

After visiting Ajloun Castle, you can also take the Ajloun Cable Car, located right next to the castle, for scenic views before heading back to Amman.

Visiting Jerash is very affordable, especially if you use the Jordan Pass — for more savings, check our Jordan travel budget tips.

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Feel free to contact us to help you organize your trip to Jordan and have unforgettable memories!