Things To Do
in Syria
Syria sits at the crossroads of ancient civilizations, where centuries-old cities, caravanserais, and hillside villages tell stories of empires past. From the limestone walls of the Old City of Damascus to the ruins of Palmyra and the coastal towns, the country offers a deep sense of history, culture, and hospitality. Levantine cuisine, souks, and centuries-old crafts are woven into daily life, even as security and infrastructure shape the travel experience.
Travelers should stay informed about current safety conditions, plan with reputable guides, and respect local customs and regulations.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey in the labyrinthine alleys of the Old City, sipping sweet Syrian coffee at a family-run cafe. Admire the ornate Umayyad Mosque and the ancient mosaics that glisten in the morning light. Local merchants greet you with warm smiles as they arrange vibrant spices and handicrafts.
Lunch at a traditional shawarma stand offers tender meat wrapped in freshly baked flatbread. Afterward, visit the Al-Hamidiyah Souq to haggle for spices, textiles, and handwoven carpets. The alleys buzz with life as artisans demonstrate centuries-old crafts.
As dusk falls, dine on meze platters in a courtyard lined with orange trees. Traditional music drifts through the air from a nearby teahouse where locals gather. The illuminated city walls glow softly, lending a magical ambiance to your first night in Damascus.
Set off toward the Eastern Desert to explore the famed desert castles of Qasr al-Hayr and Qasr Amra. Marvel at their intricate frescoes and Romanesque arches carved into sandstone. The desert dawn casts long shadows that accentuate every relief and column.
Stop for a picnic beneath the sprawling desert sky with olives, cheese, and flatbreads packed by your guide. Continue to Qasr al-Azraq, where black basalt walls stand stark against the arid landscape. A short hike reveals panoramic views of miles of undulating dunes.
Return to a desert camp where Bedouin hospitality awaits around a crackling fire. Savor slow-cooked lamb and sweet mint tea under a canopy of stars. Storytelling and soft music on traditional instruments complete an unforgettable night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $40-80 |
| 🚕Local transportation (taxi, short ride) | $1-4 |
| ☕Coffee or tea in cafe | $0.5-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and hospitality
- Vibrant markets and regional cuisines
- Diverse landscapes from coast to desert and mountains
- Safety conditions can limit accessibility
- Infrastructure and services vary by region
- Travel logistics may be challenging due to security and bureaucracy
- "مرحبا" - Hello
- "شكراً" - Thank you
- "من فضلك" - Please
- "كم السعر؟" - How much is this?
- "أين الحمام؟" - Where is the bathroom?
- "هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟" - Do you speak English?
- "أنا بحاجة للمساعدة" - I need help
Places to Visit in Syria
Visit one of these nice places.
Hilltop fortress offering sweeping views of the old city and surrounding plains, especially pleasant at sunrise or sunset.
Winding stone alleys, stone houses, and artisan workshops provide intimate street photography opportunities.
Majestic architecture and courtyard scenes, with careful, respectful framing around sacred spaces.
A historic thoroughfare lined with old town buildings, perfect for atmospheric daylight shots.
Food in Syria
Syria Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy fried or raw bulgur croquettes filled with spiced minced meat, often served with yogurt or tahini.
Must-Try!
A smoky red pepper and walnut dip, commonly enjoyed with fresh flatbread.
Marinated chicken skewers grilled over charcoal, typically served with garlic sauce and flatbread.
Bright salads featuring fresh herbs, vegetables, and crisp flatbread in fattoush or a parsley-tilled tabbouleh.
Meat pies with spiced lamb or beef, baked in a wood-fired oven.
Layers of pastry with nuts and honey or syrup, popular for dessert and tea time.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic covered market offering spices, nuts, sweets, and street bites along a bustling lane.
Traditional market area known for fresh produce, bite-sized snacks, and coffee stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly in public spaces; modest behavior is appreciated, especially around religious sites.
Greet with a respectful hello; use the right hand for giving/receiving; avoid public displays of affection in conservative areas.
Ask before photographing people, especially at religious sites or private homes.
Hospitality is strong; politely accept invitations and drink offerings when offered, unless you have health or dietary concerns.
Safety
Tipping in Syria
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 5-10% tip is common if service charge is not included; small tips for guides and drivers are appreciated.
Cash is widely used; USD can be accepted in tourist zones. Card payments are not universally available, and ATMs may be unreliable in some areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming citrus trees make sightseeing pleasant and comfortable.
Very hot and dry in inland regions; plan early-morning visits and stay hydrated; coastal areas stay cooler.
Pleasant weather with comfortable day temperatures; great for photography and outdoor exploring.
Cool to cold with occasional rain; some sites may have reduced hours and mornings can be misty.
Syria at Night
Hiking in Syria
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Foothills near Damascus with pleasant routes and viewpoints; suitable for day hikes depending on security and access.
Ridge scenery along the border with Lebanon offering dramatic landscapes and hiking routes when permitted.
Airports
How to reach Syria by plane.
Main international gateway to Syria; connects to regional hubs; taxis and shuttles available to the city.
Major northern gateway with limited international traffic; access depends on current security and air services.
Latakia-based airport serving western Syria and coastal tourism; seasonal and charter flights may be available.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority in most urban centers, with deep historical roots across the country.
Significant presence particularly in western regions and specific urban areas.
Communities including Greek Orthodox, Syriac, Armenian, and other denominations; historical churches and cultural sites exist in several cities.
Significant Kurdish communities in northeastern areas and minority groups across the country.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
By far the most popular sport; local leagues, community leagues, and informal games are common in cities.
Widely played in schools and communities; occasional local matches and events in urban centers.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ask for mezze, salads, hummus, moussaka-style dishes, and vegetable-stuffed pastries; many places can accommodate with careful ordering.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Syria.