Things To Do
in As Suwaydā’
As Suwaydā’, officially Al-Suwayda, is a Druze-majority city in southern Syria known for its olive groves, hillside villages, and tranquil desert plateau. The surrounding countryside features green terraces and canyons that rise above a desert backdrop, offering scenic viewpoints and a sense of quiet escape. The city has a reputation for warm hospitality, traditional Levantine cuisine, and a slower pace compared with larger urban centers.
Travelers should verify current safety conditions and government advisories before planning a visit.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the ancient ruins of the Temple of Zeus, where you can admire the intricate stone carvings and the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Afterward, stroll through the bustling streets of As Suwaydā’, sampling local breakfast delicacies such as fresh bread and honey. Don't forget to visit the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and pick up some unique handicrafts.
In the afternoon, head to the Archaeological Museum of As Suwaydā’ to learn about the rich history of the region, featuring artifacts from various periods, including the Roman and Byzantine eras. Take a leisurely walk through the quaint alleys lined with traditional stone houses, soaking in the unique architecture and charm. As the sun starts to lower, find a comfortable café to sip on some Arabic coffee while enjoying the local ambiance.
As evening sets in, make your way to the nearby Al-Qanawat, an ancient city where you can explore the remnants of Roman architecture lit up by the setting sun. Enjoy a traditional Syrian dinner at a local restaurant, featuring dishes such as kebabs and tabbouleh, while mingling with friendly locals. Conclude your day by watching the stars twinkle over the ancient ruins, providing a perfect backdrop to reflect on your adventures.
Begin your morning at the vibrant local market, where merchants display an array of spices, textiles, and handmade crafts. Engage with the friendly vendors, learning about their products and the stories behind them while sampling fresh produce and local sweets. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere, capturing the essence of daily life in As Suwaydā’.
After exploring the market, make your way to the nearby Souk Al-Hal market, a great spot to discover traditional clothing and handicrafts. Spend some time chatting with local artisans, observing their craftsmanship as they weave and create beautiful items. As the afternoon sun shines brightly, enjoy a refreshing fruit juice from a local stand to keep you energized.
As dusk approaches, find a cozy eatery to enjoy a meal featuring local specialties, perhaps trying a dish of Mujadara or Fattoush. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the town, soaking up the vibrant nightlife and the sounds of laughter emanating from cafés and restaurants. End your day at a rooftop spot to enjoy panoramic views of the city illuminated by the moonlight.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at cafe | $1-3 |
| 🥙Street-side snack | $0.75-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (per night) | $15-40 |
| 🥬Local groceries (basic staples) | $1-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Druze culture and warm hospitality
- Quiet landscapes, scenic hill views, and olive groves
- Affordable costs and authentic Levantine cuisine
- Compact city center makes it easy to explore on foot
- Safety conditions can change; check advisories before travel
- Limited tourist infrastructure and English-language resources
- Public transportation options are limited; plan for private transport or guides
- Connectivity and modern amenities may be uneven in some areas
- "Marḥaban" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Min fadlik" - Please
- "Kam al-thaman?" - How much is this?
- "Ayna al-matʕam?" - Where is the restaurant?
Places to Visit in As Suwaydā’
Visit one of these nice places.
Whitewashed houses, stone stairs, and narrow passages bathed in morning light provide timeless street photography opportunities.
Terraced olive groves on rolling hills offer dramatic foregrounds and sweeping plateau panoramas at sunrise or sunset.
Lively market lanes and warm shop lights create vibrant, candid night photography and colorful textures.
Overlook overlooks over the plateau and distant villages; ideal for wide landscapes and golden-hour shots.
Food in As Suwaydā’
As Suwaydā’ Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Lentils and rice topped with caramelized onions; a staple in many homes and simple eateries.
Must-Try!
Bulgur shells filled with seasoned ground meat, onions, and spices; found in many neighborhood restaurants and street stalls.
Grilled marinated meat skewers served with flatbread, rice, or salads; widely available at local eateries.
Fresh herb-and-vegetable salads with crispy bread in fattoush, or bulgur-based tabbouleh with parsley and tomatoes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market where you can sample olives, cheeses, herbs, honey, nuts, bread, and street snacks like falafel and mana'eesh.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Conceal shoulders and knees in public, especially in religious or traditional settings.
Use a respectful greeting such as Marḥaban or Salam; handshake is common among acquaintances. Use the right hand for giving and receiving.
Be courteous, avoid sensitive political topics, and show appreciation for local customs and hospitality.
Safety
Tipping in As Suwaydā’
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but modest; 5-10% in restaurants if service is good. Small tips for guides or drivers are common.
Cash is the most reliable method; Syrian pounds or US dollars may be accepted in some places. Card payments are not widely available due to infrastructure and sanctions; carry small denominations and plan ahead.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with long days. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon; carry plenty of water, sun protection, and light clothing.
Mild to cool, with occasional rain. Pack warm layers and rain gear; some rural paths may be muddy after rain.
Moderate temperatures with blooming vegetation; excellent for hiking and photography with pleasant visibility.
Pleasant temperatures and clear skies; good for longer outdoor explorations and harvest-season dishes.
As Suwaydā’ at Night
Hiking in As Suwaydā’
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hike through terraced olive groves with sweeping views over the plateau.
A moderate loop that traverses canyons and rocky outcrops toward distant villages.
Airports
How to reach As Suwaydā’ by plane.
Primary international gateway for southern Syria; flight operations can be subject to regional conditions and restrictions.
Major international hub in Amman, Jordan; commonly used by travelers heading to southern Syria via land routes when feasible.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority in As Suwaydā’; a close-knit community with distinct cultural and religious practices.
Small but longstanding Christian communities present in the region.
Various Muslim communities living in and around the area.
Smaller minority groups that contribute to the cultural mix of the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across the region, with local clubs and informal matches in towns and neighborhoods.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting As Suwaydā’.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be adapted to vegetarian diets using lentils, beans, vegetables, and dairy; request no meat in sauces or broths and confirm ingredients.