Your experience begins with pickup from your hotel or residence in Amman, where we will have a brief introduction and tour overview. Before leaving the city, we can make a quick stop at Starbucks so you can pick up your favourite coffee and snacks (included in the price). Relax during the comfortable one-hour drive (approximately 50 km) to Jerash in a luxury vehicle equipped with Wi-Fi and phone chargers. Enjoy your coffee and snacks while taking in the scenery along the way. Complimentary bottled water and soft drinks are also provided for your comfort.

Upon arrival, we begin at the impressive Arch of Hadrian, one of the most recognisable landmarks of Jerash. Built in 130 AD to commemorate the visit of Roman Emperor Hadrian, this monumental triumphal arch was intended to serve as the southern gateway to the city. Constructed from local sandstone, the structure features three grand arches, with the central arch rising highest above the roadway. Rich decorative carvings and architectural details make it one of the finest surviving examples of Roman monumental architecture in Jordan.

Nearby stands the large Roman Hippodrome, once the centre of public entertainment in Jerash. This impressive elliptical arena measures over 260 meters long and could host horse races, chariot competitions, and civic gatherings. We will walk around the perimeter and climb the grandstands for a panoramic view of the surrounding monuments. Adjacent to the Hippodrome lies the Church of Marianos, a Byzantine church dating to the 5th century AD. It is known for its beautifully preserved mosaic floors depicting biblical themes and geometric patterns.

Continuing into the heart of the archaeological park, we visit the monumental Temple of Zeus and the South Theatre. The temple, built in the 2nd century AD, sits on a hill overlooking the city and once formed part of a grand religious complex dedicated to the chief Roman deity. Below it stands the South Theatre, constructed between 90 and 92 AD and capable of seating around 3,500 spectators. The theatre’s remarkable acoustics can still be experienced today. Visitors often encounter local musicians demonstrating traditional instruments, bringing the ancient stage briefly back to life.

Located within the archaeological site, the Jerash Archaeological Museum offers a fascinating overview of the region’s history. Founded in 1928, the museum displays approximately 600 artefacts arranged chronologically, ranging from the Neolithic period to the Islamic era.

One of the most striking spaces in Jerash is the famous Oval Plaza, a uniquely shaped public square measuring approximately 90 by 80 meters. It is surrounded by elegant Ionic columns dating to the 2nd century AD. From here begins the Cardo Maximus, the city’s main collonaded street stretching nearly 800 meters. As we walk along this ancient Roman road, you can still see the grooves carved by chariot wheels in the original paving stones.

The Jerash Cathedral dates to the late 4th century and represents the early Christian transformation of the city. Nearby stands the beautifully preserved Nymphaeum, a monumental Roman fountain built in the 2nd century AD. Originally decorated with marble, statues, and flowing water, this ornate structure served as both a public fountain and an impressive architectural centrepiece along the city’s main street.

Our tour continues to the quieter North Theatre, which functioned primarily as an odeon for musical and civic performances. Inscriptions carved into the seating reveal how different sections were allocated to the city’s governing council and local tribes. A short walk away stands the grand Temple of Artemis, dedicated to the patron goddess of ancient Jerash. Built in the 2nd century AD, the temple rises dramatically above the city on a high terrace. Several towering Corinthian columns still stand today, offering one of the most iconic views in the archaeological park. At this point, guests may choose to enjoy lunch at one of the nearby local restaurants before departing for Ajloun (optional, not included in the price).

We then continue with a scenic 30-minute drive (about 20 km) northwest to the hilltop fortress of Ajloun Castle. Surrounded by the forested hills of northern Jordan, this impressive stronghold was built between 1184 and 1188 by Izz ad-Din Usama, a general and nephew of the famous Muslim leader Saladin. The castle formed an important defensive link in the region’s network of fortifications designed to protect the area from Crusader incursions and control key trade routes. After a short stop at the visitor centre, we will explore the different sections of the castle together, including its towers, courtyards, and defensive passages. Along the way, I will explain the castle’s fascinating history and unique architectural features. A small museum inside the fortress displays artefacts discovered in the surrounding region and is well worth a brief visit.

After exploring Ajloun Castle, we will drive comfortably back to Amman and drop you off at your hotel or residence. You will return with unforgettable impressions of two of northern Jordan’s most fascinating historical landmarks.