Irbid is a city that lives with full energy. Explorers who are interested in the rich history, cultural diversity, and beautiful landscapes can enjoy this mesmerizing place. Ancient relics are seen in some corners, and modern ones are now coming along too. Whether you are a history student or the one who loves history, Irbid will welcome you with wide arms open to discover their charm and hospitality. In this blog, we delve into the most interesting things to do in Irbid.
Top Things to Do in Irbid for a Memorable Experience
While strolling down the streets of Irbid, one can feel very vividly the diversification of old and new, tradition and modernity. The locals are also amiable and warm as they make sure to introduce their culture to their visitors. The culture of the vast rich past of the region is seen at archeological sites, savored food is available everywhere at local restaurants, and a marvelous landscape encircles the city. Now, let's bring out some of the best things to do in Irbid.
- Visit the Dar As Saraya Osmanli Museum
- Witness the mesmerizing Umm Qais
- Discover the majestic Ajloun Castle
- Visit the Yarmouk University
- Try Local Foods
- Explore Irbid Clock Memorial Square
- Stroll through King Abdullah II Gardens
- Explore the Museum of Jordanian Heritage
1. Visit the Dar As Saraya Osmanli Museum
Visit the Dar As Saraya Osmanli Museum during your tour of Irbid. This museum is a treasure house of enchanting collections from the times of the oldest known civilizations and also oldest artifacts from the region and therefore is the things to do in Irbid, Jordan. On the list of artifacts on display are pottery and coins, tools and jewelry aged thousands of years. Since most of the fascinating pieces kept here have direct relations with the Roman and Byzantine, spend some time exploring them and learning about the history behind each piece. It's a very beautiful introduction to your exciting journey through Irbid's history.
Address: HR5X+466 Opposite Irbid Municipality, Irbid, Jordan
Timings: 08:00 A.M. to 04:00 P.M
Friday- Closed
Nearby Attractions:
- Yarmouk Nature Reserve
- Tunis Garden
- Umm Qais
- Museum Of Jordanian Heritage
- Irbid Clock Memorial Square
Nearby Restaurants:
- Crepello
- Secret Cafe
- Layl & Nhar
- STEEL International Restaurant And Cafe
- Abu Riyadh & Vogo
Nearby Hotels:
- Irbid Plaza
- Seven Days Hotel
- Sedrah Hotel
- Sara Crown Hotel
- Al Joude Hotel
2. Witness the Mesmerizing Umm Qais
Travel to the ancient city of Umm Qais, renowned for its stunning Roman ruins and is one of the best things to do in Irbid. Enjoy a visual feast of the landscape around you, from the Sea of Galilee to the Golan Heights, at this archaeological site. Walk about the temple remains, theaters, and colonnaded streets that once hummed during Roman Empire days. Of course, do not miss the museum which stores artifacts unearthed from the site. Umm Qais will certainly give you a better insight into the history of the area and its position with ancient trade paths.
Address: MM4H+762, Ash Shounah Ash Shemaleyah, Umm Qais, Jordan
Timings: 08:00 A.M. to 06:00 P.M.
Nearby Attractions:
- Yarmouk Nature Reserve
- Tunis Garden
- Umm Qais
- Museum Of Jordanian Heritage
- Irbid Clock Memorial Square
Nearby Restaurants:
- Ar Rassam
- Malabarai Indian Restaurant
- Via Via Restaurant & Café
- Grill Mark
- Al Domary Restaurant
Nearby Hotels:
- Royal group hotel
- Flamingo Hotel
- Omayah Hotel
- Murshed Motel
- Orchid huts
Suggested Read: Cafes In Jordan To Enjoy The Jordanian Culture
3. Discover the Majestic Ajloun Castle
Ajloun Castle, located some 30 minutes north of Irbid, is famous for being an excellent example of military architecture under Islam. Built during the 12th century, the castle tells a lot of the medieval history of the region. The panoramic views of forests and valleys also reward while exploring the castle. The castle has been preserved well and a walk through its towers and passages brings one's mind back in time. Do not miss good photographs as the sceneries at the top are simply marvelous. Ajloun Castle is one of the best places to visit in Jordan for history enthusiasts and for nature lovers.
Address: Ajloun, Jordan
Timings: 08:00 A.M. - 06:30 P.M.
Nearby Attractions:
- Eimar Irbid Park
- Raghadan Palace
- As-Salt Archaeological Museum
- Wadi AlShallala
- Downtown View Point
Nearby Restaurants:
- Palestine Restaurant
- Ali Restaurant and Grills
- Meat Moot
- Steak's Out
- Zarooba
Nearby Hotels:
- Nahas Plaza
- Ajloun cabins
- Asv House Resort
- Beit Al Baraka
- The North jewel
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4. Visit the Yarmouk University
Yarmouk University is one of the largest universities in Jordan, and its campus is very beautiful. Even if you are not a student here, you will still have some free time to spend some time on these grounds and admire the very modern architecture of the buildings. This is one of the free things to do in Irbid. The university hosts very frequent cultural events and exhibitions, so grab the schedule at hand and maybe you will catch something interesting during your visit. There are many students and activities around the place, so it's a very lively campus. It would therefore be an excellent chance to experience Irbid from the educational aspect and also look at the youth coming alive.
Address: Shafiq Irshidat Street, Irbid, Jordan
Timings:
Sunday to Thursday- 8 am–3 pm
Friday and Saturday- Closed
Nearby Attractions:
- Yarmouk Nature Reserve
- Tunis Garden
- Umm Qais
- Museum Of Jordanian Heritage
- Irbid Clock Memorial Square
Nearby Restaurants:
- BIDZA
- CAPPADO
- Al Haram Pyramid
- Tomami Asian Food
- Abu Riyadh Restaurants & Grills
Nearby Hotels:
- Royal group hotel
- Flamingo Hotel
- Omayah Hotel
- Murshed Motel
- Orchid huts
Suggested Read: Best Cafes in Amman for Savoring Delicious Food
5. Try Local Foods
No visit to Irbid is considered complete without indulging in delicious, local cuisine. Traditional food in Jordan abound around the town, as does mansaf - a delicious dish of lamb and rice with yogurt sauce. Restaurants and cafes abound everywhere to serve authentic meals. And you mustn't leave without trying a falafel, shawarma, or other mezze-all perfect dishes to share. Make it a meal unto itself with mint lemonade or Arabic coffee.
Restaurants:
- Rawabi Restaurant
- Dallea' Karshak
- Shawarma House
- Crepello
- Abu Riyadh & Vogo
- Ar Rassam
Must-try Cuisines:
- Mansaf
- Zaatar Manakish
- Falafel
- Shawarma
- Kibbeh
- Fattoush
- Lentil Soup
- Kanafeh
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6. Explore Irbid Clock Memorial Square
Irbid Clock Memorial Square would be a must-visit point of the city, just because it has appeared beautifully with the big clock tower. It is surrounded by abundant gardens and lovely pathways, and you can easily sit there to enjoy the environment, and this is one of the interesting things to do in Jordan. The local crowd often gathers here, and you can see the community spirit of Irbid. You could simply take walks, sit on one of the benches, or even have a picnic in the green areas. The square also serves as a meeting place and is near shops and cafes, which makes it easy for visitors to access. So don't miss out on this; soak up the culture of the place!
Address: HR4X+8PM, Irbid, Jordan
Timings: 24/7
Nearby Attractions:
- Yarmouk Nature Reserve
- Tunis Garden
- Umm Qais
- Museum Of Jordanian Heritage
Nearby Restaurants:
- Crepello
- Secret Cafe
- Layl & Nhar
- STEEL International Restaurant And Cafe
- Abu Riyadh & Vogo
Nearby Hotels:
- Irbid Plaza
- Seven Days Hotel
- Sedrah Hotel
- Sara Crown Hotel
- Al Joude Hotel
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7. Stroll through King Abdullah II Gardens
Irbid offers the best strolling experience through King Abdullah II Gardens and is one of the top attractions in Irbid. It is vast, having beautiful green lawns, colorful flowers, and shaded trees. It is well and beautifully suited for the purpose of taking a relaxing stroll. Families are often seen here, sitting for picnics, as children find their respective playgrounds. The trails are also up-kept very well, in order to enjoy the beauty of gardens. There are benches along the way also where you can sit and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the place. In fact, King Abdullah II Gardens is one of the wonderful things to do in Irbid at night. You can stroll along leisurely, enjoy nature, or spend quality time with loved ones amidst the heart of a busy city.
Address: HR4X+8PM, Irbid, Jordan
Timings: Saturday to Thursday- 08:00 A.M. to 12:00 A.M.
Friday- 06:00 A.M. to 08:00 P.M.
Nearby Attractions:
- Yarmouk Nature Reserve
- Tunis Garden
- Umm Qais
- Museum Of Jordanian Heritage
- Irbid Clock Memorial Square
Nearby Restaurants:
- Crepello
- Secret Cafe
- Layl & Nhar
- STEEL International Restaurant And Cafe
- Abu Riyadh & Vogo
Nearby Hotels:
- Irbid Plaza
- Seven Days Hotel
- Sedrah Hotel
- Sara Crown Hotel
- Al Joude Hotel
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8. Explore the Museum of Jordanian Heritage
One of the attractions in Irbid you must visit is the Museum of Jordanian Heritage. The museum portrays a vast history and culture of Jordan using different shows and artifacts. In the displays, there are traditional costumes, crafts, and everyday items for various periods. The museum also emphasizes the many cultures that have influenced Jordan at different times. It is indeed an excellent place for family visits and individuals fond of history to explore more about the heritage of the country. The Museum of Jordanian Heritage is beautiful and quite informative with appropriate settings that are great for cultural and historical connections. After the exploration, you can also go for shopping in Jordan!
Address: HR4X+8PM, Irbid, Jordan
Timings: Sunday to Thursday- 08:00 A.M. to 03:00 P.M.
Friday and Saturday- Closed
Nearby Attractions:
- Yarmouk Nature Reserve
- Tunis Garden
- Umm Qais
- Irbid Clock Memorial Square
Nearby Restaurants:
- Crepello
- Secret Cafe
- Layl & Nhar
- STEEL International Restaurant And Cafe
- Abu Riyadh & Vogo
Nearby Hotels:
- Irbid Plaza
- Seven Days Hotel
- Sedrah Hotel
- Sara Crown Hotel
- Al Joude Hotel
Irbid is a city rich in history and culture, with its old warmth and welcoming atmosphere. There are numerous things to do in Irbid and it will be worth the visit! Explore the ancient ruins, local cuisine, and the warmth of people that never fails to create a good memory for the whole visitor. Well, Irbid is for history buffs, for foodies, and for anyone who would simply love to explore - it guarantees to give you experiences to remember. Choose any of our well-curated Jordan tour packages and explore this mesmerizing city.
Things to Do in Irbid FAQs
But there's so much more, including visiting the Archaeological Museum, Umm Qais Roman Ruins, and Pella, all of which have stories to tell about ancient civilizations and significant artifacts and ruins from the past. They will help you understand Irbid's history.
Umm Qais is about 30 minutes from Irbid. There is a local bus service, or you can take a taxi to get there. The scenic views of the countryside will make your journey more engaging.
Irbid is accessible by bus and taxi from Amman. The travelling by either bus or taxi will take one and half hours to two hours. The ride coming to Irbid will have beautiful views of the Jordanian countryside, so you'd enjoy the ride. You don't have to worry about much.
After your visit to King Abdullah II Gardens, you can also visit Yarmouk Nature Reserve, Tunis Garden, Umm Qais, Museum of Jordanian Heritage, and Irbid Clock Memorial Square.
Be sure to try local staples like mansaf, falafel, and shawarma-those dishes that locals and tourists alike enjoy. You can dine in one of the various restaurants that serve heavenly local dishes to sample the best Jordanian food. And don't miss ordering mint lemonade or Arabic coffee to go with your meal.
Culture in Irbid is very lively, being outside with the exhibitions of the local galleries, traditional music, and cultural events. Several universities have set up activities such as exhibitions and performances within the city. Having these cultural activities will allow you to understand the feeling of the local heritage better.
Absolutely! Irbid is surrounded by beautiful landscape; there is always the chance for hiking and enjoying nature. You can go to nearby reserves or the Jordan Valley for hiking, cycling, or a picnic.
Some of the must visit attractions are Dar As Saraya Osmanli Museum, Museum of Jordanian Heritage, Ajloun Castle, Az Zahraa' Park, Amman Citadel, King Abdullah II Gardens, Yarmouk Nature Reserve, Umm Qais, and many more.
Irbid is a place of historical value and great cultural richness with ancient ruins. The city indeed provides the tourist with a perfect mix of traditional and modern life. The lovely atmosphere and many learning institutions add charm to the city for tourists.
Guided tours can be done which include major attraction sites in Irbid with Myholidays. This will give you good background information about history and the culture of the region of interest.
