Yes. Amman has the country’s largest airport, reliable car rental options, and direct road access to Jerash, Ajloun, and the northern regions.
Jordan's Ancient North: Amman, Umm Qais, Pella & Irbid Loop
Journey Through Jordan
Embark on a northern Jordan loop filled with ancient cities, ruined empires, and living heritage. Starting and ending in Amman, this route passes by archaeological marvels such as the Amman Citadel, the impressive ruins of Umm Qais with views over the Sea of Galilee, Pella’s ancient significance, and a museum in Irbid. Along the way, you’ll experience both monumental Roman sites and vibrant modern culture, with every stop providing a window into Jordan’s enduring story. The journey is perfect for travelers keen to explore the crossroads of history and nature in a compact, two-day adventure.
Cultural Sites
Natural Beauty
Perfect For Discovery
About This Road Trip
This compact two-day loop showcases the contrasting faces of northern Jordan. Perfect for culture seekers, history enthusiasts, and those who love dramatic viewpoints, the trip includes Roman ruins at Jerash, medieval towers, and Amman's living traditions. Key experiences include wandering ancient streets, admiring far-reaching vistas, and discovering local heritage in both archaeological parks and museums. The journey is accessible and rewarding, offering a balanced glimpse into the ancient world that shaped modern Jordan.
View route on map
Starting Station: Amman Airport (AMM, Queen Alia)
Trip Duration: 2 days
Mileage Distance: 289 km
Perfect For: Adventure, History Enthusiasts, Culture, Nature
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Reddit Reviews
· Popular routes include driving from Aqaba to Amman via Wadi Rum, Petra, and the Dead Sea, as well as following the King’s Highway.
· The King’s Highway is an ancient trading route in Jordan that passes by Crusader castles, Nabatean tombs, and desert cliffs.
· The Dead Sea is frequently mentioned as a major highlight and a must-visit destination for travelers in Jordan.
· Amman is a common endpoint for road trips, including organized rallies and personal journeys across Jordan.
· Jordan road trips are highly regarded for their scenic routes and iconic stops, including Aqaba, Wadi Rum, Petra, the Dead Sea, and Amman.
· The King’s Highway and other routes offer travelers a blend of history, culture, and natural wonders, making the journey itself a highlight.
👍 93 % positive|👎 7 % negative
Begin Your Jordan Adventure
Start your journey in Amman, where ancient ruins overlook a vibrant city. From the bustling souks to the windswept citadel, the capital sets the stage for a road trip through Jordan's northern gems. Pick up your Abbycar rental and let Jordan’s history and natural beauty guide your way.
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Where To Stop
Road Trip Stops
Explore Jordan's ancient wonders at every stop—discover ruined cities, panoramic viewpoints, and museums revealing the roots of this storied land.
1
First stop
Amman
The Amman Citadel rises above the city, home to temples, a historic mosque, and sweeping city views. Here, visitors can walk through ruins from Roman, Byzantine, and Umayyad eras, examine archaeological artifacts, and enjoy scenic outlooks—all at a site central to Jordan’s layered past.
Based on 4644 reviews
(4.3/5)
2
Second stop
Umm Qais
Umm Qais hosts the archaeological remains of the Decapolis city of Gadara, perched high above the Jordan Valley. Visitors can explore well-preserved theaters, city walls, and the on-site Archaeological Museum, learning about ancient trade and empire while enjoying vistas across Israel and the Sea of Galilee.
Based on 272 reviews
(4.3/5)
3
Third stop
Pella
The ruins at Pella reveal millennia of habitation, making it a hidden gem for history lovers. Wander through remnants of Roman streets, Byzantine churches, and early Islamic structures set among green valley slopes. Pella is admired for its off-the-beaten-path setting and long historical legacy.
Based on 48 reviews
(3.5/5)
4
Fourth stop
Irbid
In Irbid, the Jordanian Museum of Popular Tradition offers a compact but fascinating journey into the rural crafts, costumes, and traditions that have shaped the north. The museum is ideal for learning more about the everyday life, folklore, and vibrant heritage of the region.
Based on 175 reviews
(3.7/5)
5
Fifth stop
Amman (Return)
Complete your loop by returning to Amman. Explore more of the city’s markets or catch the sunset at a local café. Amman’s modern face complements its ancient roots, offering a restful finish to your two-day road trip through the relics and living culture of northern Jordan.
Based on 510 reviews
(4.3/5)
All you need to know before you go!
Frequently Asked Questions
The King’s Highway is an ancient trading route in Jordan that passes by Crusader castles, Nabatean tombs, and desert cliffs.
Traffic in central Amman can be busy, but highways leading north are well maintained. Once outside the city, driving is generally straightforward and scenic.
1 day is enough for highlights like Jerash, but 2–3 days is ideal to include Ajloun, Umm Qais, and relaxed sightseeing without rushing.
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