Things To Do
in Irbid
Irbid is the second largest city in Jordan, located in the northern part of the country. It is known for being a major educational hub with several universities and colleges. The city has a rich history dating back to ancient times, with archaeological sites such as Tell Irbid showcasing its past.
Irbid is also a bustling commercial center with markets, shops, and vibrant street life.
- "Marhaba" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Afwan" - You're welcome
- "Inshallah" - God willing
- "Ahlan wa sahlan" - Welcome
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the ancient ruins of Umm Qais. Enjoy the stunning views of the Golan Heights and the Sea of Galilee.
Visit the museum on-site for artifacts from the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Take a leisurely walk through the well-preserved colonnaded streets.
Dinner at a local restaurant offering traditional Jordanian cuisine. Relax and reflect on the day's sights.
Travel to Jerash to witness one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman cities. Explore the monumental arches and temples as the sun rises.
Enjoy lunch at a café near the archaeological site. Continue touring the Forum and the Hippodrome, immersing yourself in history.
Return to Irbid for dinner. Stroll through the city center and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the local markets.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural significance, with ancient ruins and nearby archaeological sites.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including hills and parks.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger Jordanian cities.
- A vibrant local community with various traditional markets and festivals.
- Access to quality education with universities in the region.
- Limited job opportunities in certain professional fields.
- Traffic congestion can be an issue during peak hours.
- Healthcare facilities may not be as advanced as in major cities like Amman.
- Public transportation options are limited.
- Climate can be hot and dry, especially in summer months.
Best Activities in Irbid
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails and abundant nature in Ajloun Forest Reserve, located near Irbid. The reserve offers various hiking routes suitable for different skill levels, providing a captivating outdoor experience.
Take a day trip to the charming town of As-Salt, just a short drive from Irbid. As-Salt offers opportunities for leisurely strolls through its historic streets and alleys, providing a glimpse into the region's cultural and architectural heritage.
Embark on a cycling adventure through the picturesque Yarmouk River Valley, where you can enjoy scenic landscapes and explore the diverse terrain. There are cycling routes suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
Tours
Uncover the best of Irbid with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Irbid
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic castle with stunning views of the surrounding countryside and forests. Offers great photo opportunities.
Modern shopping center with a rooftop terrace providing panoramic views of the city skyline.
A scenic hill with panoramic views of Irbid and the surrounding areas, especially at sunset.
Food in Irbid
Irbid Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Jordanian dish featuring lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt and served with rice. A must-try when visiting Irbid. Recommended place to try: Al-Sham Restaurant.
Must-Try!
A beloved Levantine dessert made of melted cheese topped with crispy shredded phyllo dough, soaked in sugary syrup, and often flavored with rose or orange blossom water. Look for it at Habibah Sweets.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Irbid better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling marketplace where visitors can sample a variety of street foods, including falafel, shawarma, and freshly baked bread. This vibrant market offers an authentic taste of local flavors and is a foodie's paradise.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Irbid, it is important to greet people with warmth and respect. Handshakes are a common form of greeting, and it is customary to address people using their titles and last names unless invited to use their first names.
Respect for elders is highly valued in the Jordanian culture. It is important to show deference to older individuals and acknowledge their wisdom and experience.
Modest dress is recommended in Irbid, especially for women. Both men and women should avoid wearing revealing clothing out of respect for local cultural norms.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Irbid with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Irbid
Ensure a smooth experience
In Jordan, tipping is generally expected, especially in the service industry. It is customary to tip around 10% of the total bill at restaurants, cafes, and for other services such as hotel staff and taxi drivers. However, tipping is not mandatory, and the amount can vary based on the level of service and individual discretion.
In Irbid, Jordan, cash is the most widely used form of payment. While credit and debit cards are accepted in some establishments, especially those in the urban areas, it is advisable to carry sufficient cash for transactions, especially in local markets and smaller businesses. Foreign currency is generally not accepted, and it is important to have Jordanian Dinar for most purchases.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Irbid.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Irbid, with mild temperatures and blooming landscapes. It's a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the countryside.
Expect hot and dry weather in Irbid during the summer months. Despite the heat, this season is ideal for enjoying the region's cultural festivities and events.
Autumn brings pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage to Irbid. It's a great time for outdoor adventures and experiencing local fall harvest traditions.
Irbid experiences cool and sometimes rainy weather in winter. This season is perfect for exploring the historical sites and enjoying the city's lively indoor attractions.
Irbid at Night
Hiking in Irbid
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful natural reserve known for its diverse wildlife and lush greenery, offering various hiking trails with scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
A prominent mountain area near Irbid, providing several hiking paths that reward trekkers with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
This reserve features rich biodiversity and numerous trails suited for hikers of all levels, showcasing the stunning flora and fauna of the region.
A picturesque spot with rugged terrain and varied trails, perfect for hiking enthusiasts looking to explore the natural beauty of northern Jordan.
Although a bit farther, this historical site offers impressive trails and views across the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea, making it a worthwhile hiking destination.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Irbid through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Irbid by plane.
Located approximately 70 km southeast of Irbid, this is the main international airport serving Jordan.
Located around 150 km south of Irbid, this airport serves the southern region and is near the Red Sea resort city of Aqaba.
Situated in Yemen, about 850 km from Irbid, this airport serves as a major international hub in the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Irbid, predominantly consisting of Jordanians of various backgrounds.
A significant demographic group in Irbid, many of whom immigrated during the Arab-Israeli conflict.
A smaller ethnic group present in Irbid, primarily consisting of Syrian Kurdish refugees.
A minority group with a distinct identity and cultural heritage, settled in Jordan since the 19th century.
Includes small communities of other ethnicities and expatriates residing or working in Irbid.
The Soul of Irbid
Discover the essence of Irbid through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Irbid, with many local clubs and widespread participation at all age levels.
Basketball has a strong following in Irbid, with local teams and schools promoting the sport through competitions.
Volleyball is widely played, especially among women and in schools, with both indoor and beach volleyball gaining popularity.
Athletics, including running and track events, is promoted through schools and local competitions in Irbid.
Swimming is a popular recreational activity in Irbid, with various public and private pools available.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Irbid.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Jordanian cuisine heavily features meat, many restaurants in Irbid offer vegetarian and vegan options. Look for dishes like falafel, hummus, and fattoush, or communicate your dietary needs to the staff for personalized recommendations.
Finding gluten-free options may require some communication with the restaurant staff, but many places can accommodate gluten-free dietary restrictions. Opt for grilled meats, rice-based dishes, and fresh salads, and inquire about gluten-free bread options.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Irbid with these cultural adventures.
