Things To Do
in Al Qaryatayn
Al Qaryatayn is a small town in Syria's Homs Governorate, positioned around coordinates 34.2283, 37.2406 and set amid rugged hills and desert landscapes. Its history runs through ancient fortifications and caravan-era ruins, giving visitors a sense of enduring Syrian rural life. The town is known for its modest markets, stone courtyards, and nearby countryside that invites slow exploration.
Travelers should verify safety and local conditions before visiting, as circumstances can change.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the historical ruins of the ancient town of Al Qaryatayn. Marvel at the remnants of the Roman and Byzantine architecture that tell stories of the past. Capture stunning photographs as the sunrise lights up the ancient stones.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local café, savoring traditional Syrian dishes. Spend the afternoon wandering through the nearby hills, where you can find beautiful views and additional historical sites. Engage with friendly locals who often share fascinating stories about the town's rich history.
As night falls, dine at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the ruins, where you can relish a meal under the stars. The ambiance will be filled with the sounds of the evening breeze and distant conversations. Conclude your day by reflecting on the sights and sounds of this enchanting town.
Begin your day with a visit to the Monastery of St. Elian, a significant site for Christians. Take part in a guided tour that explains the rich spiritual history and architecture of the monastery. The serene environment is perfect for contemplation and appreciation of this sacred place.
Afterward, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling local delicacies while discussing the morning's insights. In the afternoon, partake in a workshop at the monastery where you can learn about traditional crafts. This hands-on experience allows you to connect deeper with the culture.
End your day with a peaceful walk around the monastery grounds, where the setting sun casts a golden hue over the landscape. Join an evening service if available, experiencing the spiritual vibrancy of the community. Wind down at a nearby café with a cup of mint tea, reflecting on your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🫖Cup of tea or coffee | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🧭Short taxi ride (local) | $1-3 |
| 🏨Hostal/guesthouse per night | $15-40 |
| 🫗Loaf of bread or groceries | $0.5-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and ancient ruins
- Accessible countryside and quiet pace
- Limited services and infrastructure in town
- Safety and travel advisories can affect plans
- "مرحبا" - Hello
- "شكراً جزيلاً" - Thank you very much
- "أين أقرب مطار؟" - Where is the nearest airport?
- "كم السعر؟" - How much does this cost?
- "أنا بحاجة إلى طبيب" - I need a doctor
Places to Visit in Al Qaryatayn
Visit one of these nice places.
Ancient fortifications and stone walls offer textures and dramatic light for photography.
Sunlit arches and mud-brick or stone walls provide classic street photography opportunities and local life candid shots.
Open desert plains surrounding the town at sunset create expansive, silhouette-filled landscapes.
Food in Al Qaryatayn
Al Qaryatayn Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled skewers of marinated meat, typically served with flatbread, salad, and rice.
Must-Try!
Seasoned minced meat with bulgur and onions, formed into shaped patties or torpedoes and fried or baked.
A hearty lentil and rice dish topped with caramelized onions.
Roasted red pepper and walnut dip served with flatbread or vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Central market area offering fresh produce, bread, herbs, and sweets; ideal for sampling seasonal items.
Informal stalls offering falafel sandwiches and quick vegetarian bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local norms by covering shoulders and knees; in some areas women may prefer head coverings; ask if unsure.
Use polite Arabic phrases; greetings are important; avoid loud behavior in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Al Qaryatayn
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and for guide services, a small tip (5-10%) is appreciated if service is good.
Cash is commonly used; US dollars and Syrian pounds are widely accepted; cards are often not accepted in small eateries or markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot days; carry water, wear light clothing, and use sun protection. Schedule outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Cool to mild days with potentially chilly nights. Layer clothing; some sites may have limited services in colder weather.
Al Qaryatayn at Night
Hiking in Al Qaryatayn
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Hiking route through green-hued hills with scenic overlooks and a sense of remote desert landscape nearby.
Short desert-edge trail offering expansive panoramas and opportunities for photography.
Airports
How to reach Al Qaryatayn by plane.
Major international gateway for Syria; serves regional and international flights. Ground transfers to major towns are available but may require planning and local guidance.
Smaller facility near Palmyra with limited service; verify current operations and accessibility.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant in the region.
Present in smaller numbers; coexist with Muslim communities in the broader area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region highly favors football; impromptu games and local clubs are common in towns and schools.
Casual leagues and pickup games in community centers and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Al Qaryatayn.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common: hummus, lentil-based dishes, mujaddara, falafel, fresh salads; communicate clearly to avoid meat or animal-derived products if needed.