whatdo

Things To Do
in Syria

Day Trips

Adventures

Syria is a country located in the Middle East, bordered by Lebanon, Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and Turkey. Known for its rich history and cultural heritage, it is home to ancient cities like Aleppo and Palmyra, which hold UNESCO World Heritage status. The country has faced significant challenges in recent years due to conflict, yet it remains a land of stunning landscapes and resilient communities.

Travelers to Syria can expect to encounter warm hospitality and a unique blend of Arab, Turkish, and Mediterranean cultures.

Syria Adventures

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Damascus
morning
:

Start your day at the Umayyad Mosque, one of the largest and oldest mosques in the world, followed by a stroll through the historic Old City.

afternoon
:

Visit the National Museum of Damascus to appreciate the archaeological artifacts and learn about Syria's rich history.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional dinner at a local restaurant, sampling dishes like kebabs and tabbouleh, followed by a walk through the bustling Souq al-Hamidiyah.

day 2
Day 2: Journey to Palmyra
morning
:

Travel to Palmyra, an ancient city that was once a thriving trade center, and explore its remarkable ruins, including the Temple of Bel.

afternoon
:

Continue your exploration by visiting the Palmyra Museum to gain insights into the city's history and significance.

evening
:

Return to Damascus and relax at a local café while enjoying a cup of Syrian coffee and some sweets.

Syria Day Trips
Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$5
☕Coffee$1
🚕Taxi ride (within city)$3
🏨Hotel room (per night)$20
🚌Bus ticket$0.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage.
  • Delicious and diverse cuisine.
  • Warm hospitality from locals.
  • Safety concerns due to ongoing conflict.
  • Limited infrastructure and services in some areas.
  • Travel restrictions in certain regions.
  • "مرحبا" - Hello
  • "شكرا" - Thank you
  • "من فضلك" - Please
  • "كيف حالك؟" - How are you?
  • "أين الحمام؟" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Syria

Visit one of these nice places.

Umayyad Mosque

A stunning architectural marvel with intricate mosaics and a rich history.

Palmyra Ruins

A UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing ancient Roman architecture amidst the Syrian desert.

Old City of Aleppo

Featuring narrow alleys, historic buildings, and the famous Citadel of Aleppo.

Culinary Guide

Food in Syria

Syrian cuisine is a delightful fusion of flavors, influenced by the diverse cultures that have inhabited the region. Must-try local dishes include traditional kebabs, hummus, and baklava. Markets and street vendors offer an array of fresh produce, spices, and snacks for tasting.

Syria Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kebab Hindi

Skewered and grilled meat, often served with rice and sauces.

Must-Try!

Tabbouleh

A refreshing salad made with parsley, tomatoes, bulgur, and lemon juice.

Baklava

A sweet pastry made of layers of filo filled with nuts and honey.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Souq al-Hamidiyah

A vibrant market in Damascus filled with stalls selling spices, sweets, and street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

Syria experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Coastal areas have moderate temperatures, while inland regions can be significantly hotter in summer and colder in winter. Rainfall is most common from November to March, while summer months can see little to no precipitation.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Traditions

Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites.

Hospitality

It is customary to accept offers of tea or coffee from locals as a sign of respect.

Social Interactions

Greeting with a handshake is common; however, avoid physical contact with the opposite gender.

Safety Guide

Safety

Traveling in Syria requires caution due to ongoing conflict and safety concerns in certain areas. It's essential to stay updated on travel advisories and avoid regions with active conflict. Travelers should also register with their embassy and have a local guide for safer exploration.

Tipping in Syria

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and cafes, typically around 10% of the bill.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; credit cards may not be accepted everywhere. It's advisable to carry local currency.

Syria Adventures

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Ideal for visiting, with mild weather and blooming landscapes. Perfect for outdoor activities.

Summer

Hot temperatures, particularly in inland areas; recommended to stay hydrated and seek shade.

Autumn

Temperatures begin to cool, making it another favorable season for travel.

Winter

Cold, especially in mountainous areas; expect some snowfall, particularly in the north.

Nightlife Guide

Syria at Night

Syrian nightlife varies by region, with larger cities like Damascus offering cafes and lounges that stay open late. While bars are less common, you can find many places serving shisha (water pipe) and traditional music. Evening gatherings often revolve around family and socializing in local cafes, with many people enjoying discussions over coffee or tea.

Hiking in Syria

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Hermon

A popular hiking destination with stunning views and diverse wildlife, located on the border with Lebanon.

Qalamoun Mountain Range

Offers various trails with breathtaking landscapes and opportunities for outdoor activities.

Syria Adventures

Airports

How to reach Syria by plane.

Damascus International Airport

The primary airport in Syria, located approximately 15 km from the capital, offering flights to several countries in the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Syria's cities, particularly Damascus, have areas that are pedestrian-friendly, especially in the Old City where narrow streets are common. However, infrastructure may be less developed in rural areas, making it challenging to walk long distances. It's advisable to explore city centers on foot while using taxis or public transport for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Arabs

The majority ethnic group in Syria, with a rich culture and diverse traditions.

Kurds

A significant ethnic minority in Syria, primarily residing in the northern regions, with their own distinct culture and language.

Syria Adventures

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular sport in Syria, with a strong following and local clubs.

Basketball

Gaining popularity, especially among the youth, with local tournaments often held.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic conditions in Syria can be challenging, particularly in urban areas where congestion is common. Public transportation options include buses and shared taxis, but they may not always follow strict schedules. It's advisable to use taxis or rideshare services for convenience, especially in cities.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many Syrian dishes are vegetarian-friendly, with abundant vegetable-based meals.

Halal Food

All meat served in Syrian cuisine is halal, catering to Muslim dietary laws.

Syria Adventures
Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Syria have been affected by years of conflict, leading to limited access in some regions. Major cities like Damascus have hospitals and clinics, but quality may vary. It's recommended to have travel insurance and to carry necessary medications, as pharmacies may be poorly stocked.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Syria.

Hotels Apartments