Things to do in Irbid
Discover the best attractions and experiences Irbid has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore the ancient ruins and reminders of Jordan’s empires around Irbid, from Roman-era cities to medieval fortifications.
Umm Qais (Gadara) ruins
Hilltop ruins of the Gadara city with spectacular hillside views over the Jordan Valley and the Sea of Galilee.
Jerash Roman City (Gerasa) ruins
One of the best-preserved Roman-era sites with a magnificent oval plaza, column-lined streets, and temples.
Ajloun Castle (Qalat Ar-Rabad)
12th-century fortress perched above the Jordan Valley offering sweeping views and atmospheric rooms.
Museums
Learn about the region’s long history through well-curated museums near Irbid.
Irbid Archaeological Museum
Artifacts from Nabataean, Roman, and Byzantine periods highlight the area's ancient layers.
Jerash Archaeological Museum
Exhibits from Jerash’s excavations including sculpture and inscriptions.
Religious Monuments
Explore early Christian and ancient religious sites connected to the region’s historic cities.
Church of Artemis (Jerash)
Roman-era church within Jerash’s ruins with well-preserved mosaics and architecture.
Gadara Basilica remains (Umm Qais)
Ruinous remains of a late Roman basilica offering a glimpse of early Christian worship on the Gadara hill.
National & Theme Parks
Escape into Jordan’s nature with forested hills and river canyons near Irbid.
Ajloun Forest Reserve
Lush pine forests with easy to moderate hiking and wildlife, just north of Irbid.
Wadi Mujib Nature Reserve
Spectacular canyon and river trails for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Neighborhoods
Stroll through Irbid’s urban quarters to feel the everyday rhythm of the city.
Irbid Old City (Al Balad)
Historic market lanes, spice stalls and traditional storefronts to explore on foot.
Yarmouk University area
Campus-adjacent neighborhoods with student-friendly cafes and casual eateries.
Free Things to Do
Budget-friendly ways to enjoy Irbid without spending a dinar.
Sunset at Umm Qais overlook
Watch the sun sink over the Jordan Valley with panoramic hilltop views.
Walk the Al Balad streets
Explore the old market lanes and city neighborhoods at your own pace.
Gastronomy
Taste Jordanian flavors, from hearty lamb dishes to mezze and sweet treats.
Mansaf at a traditional Irbid restaurant
Jordan’s national dish served on a shared platter with rice and lamb.
Mezze crawl in Al Balad
Sample hummus, falafel, mutabbal, and fresh bread at popular local spots.
Arabic coffee and baklava in a local cafe
Experience the classic coffee ritual with a sweet bite.
Nightlife
Relaxed evenings in cafés and social spots around the city.
Evening cafes in Al Balad
Casual venues with coffee, shisha, and light music.
Student-friendly hangouts near Yarmouk University
Casual spots for late-night snacks and conversations.
Entertainment
Cultural happenings and cinema for evenings out.
Local theaters and cultural events in Irbid
Community stages host performances and exhibitions throughout the year.
Cinema nights at Irbid venues
Watch Jordanian and international films at local screens.
Sports
Active ways to enjoy the Jordanian outdoors and fields.
Football at local parks
Casual games and pick-up matches with residents.
Outdoor fitness and group runs near Irbid
Open-air workouts in city parks and public spaces.
Off the Track
Go beyond the obvious with scenic hikes and lesser-known routes.
Hike to Ajloun Forest Reserve trails
Follow forest trails through pines with quiet viewpoints.
Umm Qais hilltop stroll and viewpoint
Gentle hillside paths with sweeping view over the valley.