Irbid sits on a fertile plateau in northern Jordan, close to the Syrian border and within easy reach of the northern Jordan Valley. It is a university city and the economic centre of the north, which gives it a busy, lived-in feel rather than a resort one. Its position makes it a practical base for day trips to Umm Qais, Beit Ras (Capitolias), Pella, Ajloun and Umm el-Jimal, or for travelling onward to Syria.
For a visitor, the useful distinction is between the downtown area and the streets around University Street and Al Jamaa Street, where the city's larger hotels are found. The two are close enough that you can move between them, but they feel different: downtown is older and louder, while the university-side streets are where most western visitors end up. This guide covers which of these areas to base yourself in, and what to expect at each budget level.
Best areas to stay in Irbid
1. University Street and Al Jamaa Street area
This is the part of the city where the larger hotels are concentrated, close to the University Street "circle" and the junction with Pr. Muhammad Street. It suits first-time visitors and anyone who wants the most straightforward choice of accommodation, since the alternatives of the same standard are not found elsewhere in Irbid. Expect established hotels rather than guesthouses, with a mix of western visitors and travellers from the region.
Practically, this area puts you within reach of the university campuses and the city's museums, and it is the side of town most set up for visitors. One thing to keep in mind: at least one hotel here has a police guard posted for security reasons, so do not be surprised by a visible security presence. Always agree on prices before checking in.
2. Downtown
Downtown Irbid is typically Levantine in character, with old buildings and a lively street life. It suits budget travellers and anyone who prefers to be in the middle of things rather than on the hotel strip. The accommodation here is older and cheaper than what you find around Al Jamaa Street.
The trade-off is noise: downtown is loud from nearby traffic and from people enjoying the night out. If you are a light sleeper, or you want quiet evenings, the university-side streets will serve you better.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: the downtown area, where the hotels are old but cheaper than elsewhere in the city.
- Mid-range: the University Street and Al Jamaa Street area, where prices are relatively reasonable and the standard is higher than downtown.
- Splurge: Irbid does not have a high-end tier. The best-regarded places in the university-side area are described as not high end, so treat that as the ceiling rather than expecting luxury options.
Best area for a first visit
Base yourself in the University Street and Al Jamaa Street area. It is where the city's more established hotels are found, it is the area most frequented by western visitors, and you will not find alternatives of the same standard elsewhere in Irbid. Downtown is worth a look for its character and lower prices, but for a first trip the university side is the simpler choice.
Frequently asked questions
Is Irbid a good base for seeing northern Jordan?
Yes. Its position in northern Jordan makes it a convenient starting point for the northern Jordan Valley and for Umm Qais, Beit Ras (Capitolias), Pella, Ajloun and Umm el-Jimal, as well as for travelling on to Syria.
Should I stay downtown or near University Street?
Downtown is cheaper and more characterful but older and noisy from traffic and nightlife. The University Street and Al Jamaa Street area has the higher-standard hotels and is where most western visitors stay.
Do I need to agree on the price before checking in?
Yes. It is advisable to agree on prices before checking in, particularly at the hotels in the university-side area.
What is the climate like through the year?
Irbid has a hot-summer Mediterranean climate: summers are hot during the day with warm nights, and winters are cool and wet, with two snowy days on average.
Compare live prices for the areas above with the booking tools on this page before you decide.