Begin with pickup from your Amman hotel. Hop inside your private, air-conditioned minivan, and take in Jordan’s craggy landscapes as you make the approximately 31-mile (50-kilometer) journey north to Jerash. Often called the ‘Pompeii of the East’ for its well-preserved ruins, Jerash was built by Alexander the Great around 331 BC. The city prospered after Roman conquest in 63 BC, and was later named one of the 10 great Decapolis cities of the east. On arrival, explore independently or with a local guide (depending on option selected). Stroll around highlights such as Hadrian's Arch, built in 130 AD to celebrate a visit by the Emperor Hadrian, and the Hippodrome, a sporting arena that held 15,000 spectators. See the Forum with its stunning Oval Colonnade, and admire the Temple of Artemis, with its 39-foot (12-meter) Corinthian columns. Amble down the Colonnaded Street and take photos of the Nymphaeum, the city’s ornamental fountain. Then, travel back to Amman to views the city’s major classical treasures. Head up to Amman Citadel and walk around the hilltop collection of Roman, Byzantine, and early Islamic ruins. See the remains of the Roman Temple of Hercules, dating from the 2nd century, and check out the Umayyad Palace, a crumbled complex of royal buildings originating from the 8th century. Visit the Archaeological Museum to view its displays of classical and Islamic finds from across Jordan, and then drive into downtown Amman to view the stunning Roman Theater. Take in the steeply raked terraces of this magnificently restored, 2nd-century theater that once seated about 6,000 people. Finish with a closer look at Amman’s traditional souks before your tour concludes with a drop-off back at your hotel.
