Irbid - Discovering Jordan

Travelling to Irbid

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Irbid, a pretty good destination in Jordan (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Irbid and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Irbid, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Jordan, here's everything to know about Irbid for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Irbid

Irbid is a city in northern Jordan, located about 80 kilometers north of the capital, Amman. It is the second-largest city in the country, with a population of around 1.2 million people. Irbid is a hub for education and culture in Jordan, as it is home to several universities and colleges, including Jordan University of Science and Technology and Yarmouk University. The city is also known for its ancient archaeological sites, such as the Roman ruins of Umm Qais and the Byzantine Church of St. Stephen. Additionally, Irbid is a major transportation hub, with bus and train stations connecting it to other parts of the country.

What to visit in Irbid

Sure, here are some of the best tourist attractions in Irbid, Jordan: 1. Ajloun Castle: Located on the top of a hill, Ajloun Castle dates back to the 12th century and was built by the Muslim leader Saladin. The castle offers impressive views of the surrounding area and has a small museum inside that showcases the history of the castle and the region.
2. Jerash: Located about 40 minutes outside of Irbid, Jerash is one of the most well-preserved Roman cities in the world. Visitors can explore an ancient chariot racetrack, several temples, and a colonnaded street, among other things.
3. Beit Ras: This small ancient city is located just a short drive from Irbid and features well-preserved Roman and Byzantine ruins. Visitors can explore the remains of a Byzantine church, a Roman theater, and several other structures.
4. Tell Mar Elias: This archaeological site is located just outside of Irbid and features the remains of an ancient city from the Roman and Byzantine periods. Visitors can see the ruins of a large church, a Roman bathhouse, and other structures.
5. Jordan Museum of Natural History: Located on the campus of Yarmouk University, the Jordan Museum of Natural History is a great place to learn about the flora and fauna of Jordan. The museum has a large collection of animal specimens, including several rare and endangered species.
6. Royal Automobile Museum: Located in Amman (about an hour's drive from Irbid), the Royal Automobile Museum is home to a collection of rare and vintage cars and motorcycles. Visitors can see vehicles used by the Royal Family of Jordan as well as several famous cars, such as a 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Jordan, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Irbid.

When to go on holiday to Irbid

The best time to visit Irbid, Jordan is during the spring and fall months, between March to May and September to November. During these months, the temperatures are pleasant and moderate, making it the perfect time to explore the outdoors and engage in outdoor activities such as hiking, sightseeing, and exploring the local culture. The peak summer season between June to August can be extremely hot and uncomfortable for many travelers. If you plan to visit Irbid during this time, make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen and stay hydrated.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Irbid

There are a few ways to get to Irbid in Jordan: 1. By plane: Irbid doesn't have its own airport, the nearest international airport is Queen Alia International Airport in the capital city of Amman. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to Irbid.
2. By bus: There are several bus companies that operate between Amman and Irbid. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on the traffic conditions.
3. By taxi: You can also hire a taxi from Amman to Irbid. Taxis are readily available, and the journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on the traffic.
I hope this information helps you to reach Irbid.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Irbid, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Irbid

Here are some of the typical foods of Irbid, Jordan along with a brief description: 1. Mansaf: This is the national dish of Jordan and is also considered a specialty of Irbid. It is a savory lamb and yogurt dish served with rice and flatbread.
2. Musakhan: This is a traditional Jordanian dish made with roasted chicken, sumac, onions, and pine nuts wrapped in thin flatbread. It is often served as a breakfast or lunch dish.
3. Kanafeh: This is a popular Middle Eastern dessert made with a layer of shredded phyllo dough, a sweet cheese filling, and topped with a sugar syrup and crushed pistachios.
4. Freekeh: This is a type of roasted green wheat that is commonly used in soups and stews. It has a smoky flavor and is considered a healthy superfood.
5. Falafel: Falafel is a popular street food in Jordan and is made from ground chickpeas or fava beans that are formed into balls or patties and fried until crispy. It is often served on a sandwich with salad and tahini.
6. Hummus: Hummus is a classic Middle Eastern dip made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. It can be served as an appetizer with bread or vegetables.
7. Shawarma: Shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern sandwich made with slices of marinated meat (usually chicken, beef, or lamb) that are stacked on a spit and slow-roasted until tender. The meat is shaved off the spit and served on a pita bread with vegetables and tahini sauce.
8. Fattoush: Fattoush is a classic Middle Eastern salad made with chopped vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions, and pita chips. It is often dressed with a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and sumac.
You can find general info about typical foods in Jordan here.

Is Irbid an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other destinations in Jordan, Irbid is generally considered to be more affordable for tourists. Accommodation, food, and transportation are all relatively inexpensive compared to popular tourist destinations like Amman, Petra, and the Dead Sea. However, prices can vary depending on the level of luxury you're looking for, and the time of year you plan to visit. Overall, Irbid is a great budget-friendly option for visitors to Jordan.

Where to find accomodation in Irbid

In Irbid, the best areas to find accommodation are the city center and the surrounding areas. The city center is the busiest and most developed area, with many hotels, restaurants, shops, and attractions in close proximity. Additionally, there are many hotels and guesthouses located in the suburbs of Irbid, which offer a more peaceful and relaxed environment. Some popular areas to find accommodation in Irbid include Al-Nasriyah, Al-Mostaqbal, and Al-Mafraq Road. These areas have good access to public transportation and are well-located for visiting the major attractions in Irbid.
You can check hotel prices at Irbid here:
Booking.com

Is Irbid a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Irbid is considered a safe place for tourists. The crime rate is low and the city is known for its friendly and welcoming locals. However, like any other city in the world, it's always advisable to take normal precautions to ensure your safety. Make sure to keep your belongings safe and avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas. Overall, Irbid is a great destination for tourists and offers a variety of cultural and historical sites to explore.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Jordan here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Irbid.

What type of travelers will enjoy Irbid the most?

Irbid is a city in Jordan that offers a variety of activities and attractions that cater to different types of travelers. It is a suitable destination for families, couples, and young people looking for fun. For families, the city offers numerous parks and playgrounds such as Al-Hassan Park and Al-Andalus Park. The Jordan Museum in Irbid is also an interesting place to visit as it houses a diverse collection of artifacts from ancient times to modern day.
For couples, a visit to Beit Rusan, a historic house turned museum, is a great way to experience Irbid's cultural heritage. The Dar As-Saraya Museum is also another romantic spot to visit, and offers a glimpse into the city's history and architecture.
For young people looking for fun, the Al Yarmouk University campus offers many activities and events, such as concerts, sports tournaments, and art exhibitions. The city's bustling streets also offer a variety of restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy local delicacies and coffee.
Overall, Irbid offers something for every type of traveler, whether you're exploring history with your family, enjoying a romantic trip with your partner, or seeking adventure with your group of friends.

How to get around Irbid

In Irbid, you can use various modes of transportation, including taxis, buses, and service taxis (shared taxis). Taxis are widely available and can be hailed on the street or ordered through ride-hailing apps like Uber or Careem. Buses also run throughout the city and are a cheaper option, but they tend to be crowded, especially during rush hours. Service taxis are another popular mode of transportation, and they operate on fixed routes, picking up passengers along the way until the vehicle is full.

What to see around Irbid

Here are some nice places you can visit in a day trip from Irbid, Jordan: 1. Ajloun Castle: Located in the town of Ajloun, about 30 minutes from Irbid, this 12th-century fortress is a must-visit for history buffs.
2. Beit Ras: This ancient Roman town is located just a few miles east of Irbid and is home to some impressive ruins, including a well-preserved amphitheater and an odeon.
3. Jerash: Considered one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world, Jerash is located about an hour's drive from Irbid and boasts well-preserved temples, theaters, and streets.
4. Umm Qais: Located in the far north of Jordan, Umm Qais was once a Roman city and today features impressive ruins, including a theater and temples.
5. Ajloun Forest Reserve: If you're looking for some outdoor adventure, head to the Ajloun Forest Reserve, which is home to dozens of hiking trails, camping sites, and ample wildlife, including many rare and endangered species.
I hope that helps! Let me know if you need more information about any of these destinations.
For every travel information about Jordan you can click here.

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