Jerash: visiting the Roman city, opening hours, ticket price and time needed
Jerash (ancient Gerasa) is one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the Middle East and the most rewarding day trip from Amman: about 48 km to the north, 45 to 60 minutes by road. Hadrian's Arch, the hippodrome, the oval plaza, the colonnaded street (cardo), the theatres and the sanctuary of Artemis are all walked on foot over more than two kilometres. Allow 3 to 4 hours for the highlights, half a day with the museum.
Highlights
Hadrian's Arch
A triumphal arch raised in AD 129-130 for the emperor's visit, at the southern entrance of the city, about 500 m from the site gate.
The oval plaza
A square lined with Ionic columns, where the cardo begins; one of the most famous layouts of the city.
The South Theatre
Close to 3,000 seats with remarkable acoustics; bagpipers often play in the stands (a tip of about 1 JD is customary if you photograph them).
The cardo and the sanctuary of Artemis
The colonnaded street leads north to the nymphaeum, the cathedral and the temple of Artemis, the finest ruins on the site; it gets quieter the further you go from the entrance.
The hippodrome
A large chariot-racing stadium, restored, near Hadrian's Arch.
Practical info
Tips
- Entry: 10 JD for non-Jordanians, including the archaeological museum (Jordan Tourism Board fee table); Jerash is included in the Jordan Pass, which also covers the visa after two consecutive nights: see Jordan Pass. The pass pays for itself quickly with Jerash and Petra. Recent guides report no scheduled show: musicians play at random times. Arrive at opening time: by late morning the car park is full and tour groups arrive, especially on Fridays. There is no shade on the site: bring water, a hat, sunscreen and good shoes. To combine with another visit, see Ajloun Castle (about 30 km to the west) and the Jerash and Ajloun day trip. Back to Amman.
How to get there
From Amman: by car or taxi, 45 to 60 minutes (count at least 40 JD for a negotiated return trip with waiting); by public bus from the Tabarbour north bus station, about 1 JD per person and 30 to 50 minutes, the bus leaving when full. The simplest option for a traveller without a car is the Jerash and Ajloun day trip. If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car for the day.
Opening hours
Our guides that feature it
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