Things to do in Northern Highlands
Discover the best attractions and experiences Northern Highlands has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore ancient fortifications and Roman ruins that punctuate the Northern Highlands of Jordan.
Ajloun Castle
A well-preserved 12th-century fortress perched above the valleys, offering commanding views and Crusader-era architecture.
Jerash Archaeological Site
One of the best-preserved Roman cities, where colonnaded streets, theatres, and temples rise from the green hills.
Umm Qais (Gadara) Archaeological Site
Ruined hillside city with theatres, baths, and expansive views across the Golan Heights and Sea of Galilee.
Museums
Regional museums showcase northern Jordan's past.
Jerash Archaeological Museum
Artifacts from Jerash's ancient city tell the story of Roman and Byzantine life in the north.
Irbid Archaeological Museum
A collection of finds from around Irbid, illustrating daily life and crafts through the ages.
Religious Monuments
Sacred sites and early-church remnants in the area.
Temple of Artemis at Jerash
Part of Jerash's grand Roman ruins, dedicated to Artemis and still impressive as a religious landmark.
Umm Qais Byzantine Church Ruins
Remnants of early Christian worship perched along the Umm Qais hillside.
National & Theme Parks
Protected landscapes and nature reserves.
Ajloun Forest Reserve
Ancient oaks and pines weave through forest trails with panoramic upland views.
Wadi Mujib Nature Reserve
A dramatic canyon landscape offering adventurous bedrock trails and river canyons.
Neighborhoods
Quaint towns and neighborhood corners to stroll.
Jerash Old Town
Old-town lanes, Roman heritage corners, and local shops in a relaxed northern setting.
Irbid Old City
Bustling market streets, cafes, and a lively student vibe in Jordan's north.
Ajloun Town
Hilltop town with traditional houses, terraces, and nearby farms.
Free Things to Do
Budget-friendly ways to experience the region.
Stroll the outskirts of Jerash and countryside views
Take in rural scenery and ancient masonry from outside the official site.
Umm Qais overlook at sunset
Watch the sun dip behind the hills for sweeping views toward the Sea of Galilee.
Scenic drive through Ajloun countryside
Meander along forested hills and quiet villages away from the crowds.
Gastronomy
Taste northern Jordan's classic dishes.
Mansaf
The national lamb-and-rice dish, served in generous portions at guesthouses and restaurants.
Kanafeh (Nabulsieh-style)
A layer of cheese and crispy pastry soaked in sweet syrup, a beloved dessert in the north.
Maqluba
A fragrant upside-down rice dish with vegetables and meat, a staple at family tables.
Nightlife
Evenings in local cafes and cultural venues.
Traditional coffee houses in Irbid
Casual spots for tea, coffee and local music, a staple of the north.
Cultural evenings in Jerash and Irbid
Seasonal performances, small venues and open-air events.
Entertainment
Cultural events and venues.
Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts
A renowned summer festival with music, dance and theatre set against ancient ruins.
Local theatre and music nights in Irbid
Community stages host plays and live music in the north.
Sports
Active pursuits in the outdoors.
Hiking in Ajloun Forest Reserve
Forest trails with panoramic viewpoints and wildlife.
Mountain biking on rural trails near Ajloun and Jerash
Undulating routes through pine-covered hills for a day of cycling.
Off the Track
Hidden corners and less-visited spots.
Gadara/Umm Qais hillside trails
Rugged paths around the ruins offering quiet viewpoints above the Sea of Galilee.
Ajloun countryside villages
Remote stone houses and olive groves with a slower pace and inviting locals.