Umm Qais - Discovering Jordan

Travelling to Umm Qais

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Umm Qais, a pretty good destination in Jordan (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Umm Qais and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Umm Qais, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Jordan, here's everything to know about Umm Qais for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Umm Qais

Umm Qais is an ancient city located in northern Jordan, situated on a hill overlooking the Jordan Valley, the Sea of Galilee, and the Golan Heights. It was originally known as Gadara and was one of the Ten Cities of the Decapolis in ancient times. Umm Qais is famous for its well-preserved Greco-Roman ruins, including a theater, basilica, and colonnaded street. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and explore the nearby hot springs and natural pools.

What to visit in Umm Qais

Umm Qais is a small town in Northern Jordan, with a rich history and many important archaeological sites and tourist attractions. Some of the main attractions of Umm Qais are: 1. Gadara: Gadara is an ancient Roman city situated on a hill with stunning views of the Jordan Valley and the Sea of Galilee. The city features a well-preserved theater, Roman baths, and a colonnaded street, which offer visitors a glimpse into the past of this ancient city.
2. Ottoman Village: The Ottoman Village is a restored village from the Ottoman era. Visitors can see traditional Ottoman architecture and learn about the daily lives of Ottomans in this village.
3. Ajloun Castle: Ajloun Castle is a 12th-century castle situated on top of a hill overlooking the village of Ajloun and the surrounding landscape. The castle was built by the Muslim Ayyubid dynasty to protect the region from the Crusaders.
4. Um Qais Nature Reserve: The Um Qais Nature Reserve is a protected area that features a diverse array of flora and fauna, including the rare Syrian Serin bird, which is found only in this part of Jordan. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking in this beautiful reserve.
5. Tell Mar Elias: Tell Mar Elias is an archaeological site located near the village of Umm Qais. The site features the remains of a Byzantine-era church and a monastery, as well as a Roman necropolis.
Overall, Umm Qais is a great destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike, offering a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Jordan, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Umm Qais.

When to go on holiday to Umm Qais

The best time to go on holiday to Umm Qais, Jordan is during the months of April to May and September to November when the weather is mild and comfortable. During these months, temperatures are in the mid-20s Celsius, making it perfect for outdoor activities like sightseeing. It's also important to note that during the winter months (December to February), the weather can be chilly and rainy, while during the summer months (June to August), temperatures can soar above 40 degrees Celsius, making it very hot and humid.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Umm Qais

To get to Umm Qais in Jordan, you can hire a taxi or rent a car from Amman, which is around 2.5 hours away by car. Alternatively, there are public buses that run from the Abdali bus station in Amman to the nearby town of Irbid. From there, you can take a taxi to Umm Qais, which is about 20 minutes away. It's important to note that the buses may not run directly to Umm Qais, so it's always best to check with a local travel agency or your accommodation provider for the most up-to-date information.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Umm Qais, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Umm Qais

Umm Qais is a town in Jordan that offers various traditional and delicious foods. Here's a list of some notable dishes: 1. Mansaf: This is the national dish of Jordan and a must-try in Umm Qais. It is a bed of rice topped with lamb cooked in yogurt and served with pine nuts and spices.
2. Maqluba: Another popular dish in Jordan, Maqluba is made of meat, vegetables, and rice cooked together in a pot and then flipped to serve upside down.
3. Fatayer: These are small baked pastries that can be savory or sweet. They are usually filled with cheese, spinach, or meat.
4. Falafel: This is a popular vegetarian dish made of ground chickpeas, onions, and spices, shaped into balls and fried. It is often served with tahini sauce and pita bread.
5. Shawarma: This is a Middle Eastern sandwich made with roasted meats, usually chicken or lamb, served in a wrap or pita bread with vegetables and sauce.
6. Hummus: This is a dip made of mashed chickpeas, garlic, and tahini, drizzled with olive oil and served with pita bread or vegetables.
7. Baklava: This is a sweet pastry made of layers of filo dough, honey, and chopped nuts, often served as a dessert.
You can find general info about typical foods in Jordan here.

Is Umm Qais an expensive destination for tourists?

Umm Qais is not typically considered an expensive destination for tourists. In fact, it is known for its affordability and relatively low cost of living. However, the cost of a trip to Umm Qais can vary depending on factors such as the time of year you are traveling, the length of your stay, your accommodations, and your activities. Generally, travelers can expect to find affordable hotels and guesthouses, inexpensive local cuisine, and low-cost transportation options while in Umm Qais.

Where to find accomodation in Umm Qais

The best areas to find accommodation to visit Umm Qais in Jordan are Migdal, Ein Gev and Kinneret. These areas are located in northern Israel, close to the border with Jordan and the historical site of Umm Qais. You can consider staying in popular cities in the area, such as Tiberias or Nazareth, where you will find a variety of accommodations such as hotels, guesthouses, and apartments. Some of the popular accommodations in these areas include The Scots Hotel, The Setai Sea of Galilee, and Leonardo Club Hotel Tiberias.
You can check hotel prices at Umm Qais here:
Booking.com

Is Umm Qais a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Umm Qais is generally considered a safe place for tourists to visit in Jordan. However, it is always important to exercise common sense precautions while traveling, such as being aware of your surroundings, avoiding unfamiliar and isolated areas, and keeping your belongings secure. It is recommended to follow the advice of local authorities and to stay up-to-date on any potential risks or security concerns in the area before planning a trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Jordan here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Umm Qais.

What type of travelers will enjoy Umm Qais the most?

Umm Qais in Jordan is a historical site that might appeal to people interested in ancient history, culture, and architecture. The site offers breathtaking views of the Jordan Valley, Lake Tiberias, and the Golan Heights, making it a perfect destination for nature and adventure lovers. Therefore, Umm Qais is ideal for families with children, couples, and anyone interested in history, culture, and outdoor activities. However, it might not be suitable for young people looking for nightlife or partying as the area is relatively quiet and peaceful.

How to get around Umm Qais

While Umm Qais is a small town, the most convenient way of getting around would be by car or taxi. Bicycles could also be an option for short distances. However, keep in mind that the hilly terrain may make cycling challenging. Walking is also an option, but it may not be ideal for exploring long distances or during the hot summer months.

What to see around Umm Qais

Sure, here are some nice places to visit from Umm Qais in a day trip: 1. Jerash - located about 45km away, Jerash is a fascinating historic city with ruins of ancient Roman buildings and structures.
2. Ajloun Forest Reserve - located about 50km away, the forest reserve offers beautiful hiking trails amid pine trees and a variety of wildlife.
3. Mount Nebo - located about 60km away, it offers breathtaking views of the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea.
4. Pella - located about 30km away, Pella is an ancient city with Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic ruins.
5. Dead Sea - located about 80km away, the Dead Sea is a must-visit destination in Jordan. You can enjoy floating in the saltwater and experience the therapeutic effects of the surrounding mud. 6. Madaba - located about 50km away, Madaba is famous for its stunning Byzantine-era mosaics, including the famous Madaba Map.
These are just some options, but there are many other amazing sites to visit in Jordan.
For every travel information about Jordan you can click here.

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