Things To Do
in Dar‘ā
Dar‘ā is a city located in southwestern Syria, known for its rich history and ancient ruins dating back to the Roman times. It is also the birthplace of the Syrian uprising in 2011, which marked the beginning of the Syrian Civil War. Dar‘ā has faced significant destruction and displacement due to the ongoing conflict, but efforts are being made to rebuild and restore the city.
Despite the challenges, Dar‘ā remains a symbol of resilience and the aspirations of the Syrian people for peace and stability.
- "Marhaban" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Afwan" - You're welcome
- "Nعم" - Yes
- "La" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $30
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Roman Theatre, an impressive ancient structure. Spend some time admiring the architecture and taking photos.
After lunch, head to the Souq al-Hal, the local market, to experience the vibrant culture. Browse through shops selling spices, textiles, and crafts.
In the evening, enjoy a walk along the Al-Omari Mosque. Take in the sights and sounds of the bustling city as you wind down your day.
Visit the nearby Golan Heights for stunning views and natural beauty. Enjoy a leisurely hike and immerse yourself in the serene environment.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the scenic landscapes. Explore the area, taking images of the breathtaking surroundings.
Return to Dar‘ā and find a local restaurant for dinner. Savor traditional Syrian dishes while reflecting on the day's adventures.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical significance as one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities
- Strategically located near the Jordanian border, facilitating trade
- Natural beauty and diverse landscapes, including the nearby Golan Heights
- Cultural diversity with a mix of ethnic and religious communities
- Agricultural opportunities due to fertile lands in the region
- Impact of ongoing conflict and instability affecting safety and security
- Economic challenges due to war, leading to high unemployment rates
- Infrastructure damage from fighting, complicating daily life
- Limited access to healthcare and educational facilities
- Displacement of many residents, disrupting community cohesion
Best Activities in Dar‘ā
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy the scenic beauty of the countryside and explore the natural landscapes through hiking trails.
Explore the rich history of Dar‘ā by visiting historical sites and architectural landmarks.
Relax and enjoy a picnic in the peaceful and well-maintained local parks.
Tours
Uncover the best of Dar‘ā with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Dar‘ā
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular spot for photography in Dar‘ā, Syria.
Provides a historical backdrop for capturing stunning photos and panoramas of the city and its surroundings.
With its architectural beauty and historical significance, it offers a picturesque setting for photography and enjoying scenic views.
Food in Dar‘ā
Dar‘ā Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Jordanian dish popular in Dar‘ā, Mansaf consists of lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt, served with rice and topped with nuts. It is a hearty and flavorsome dish that is a must-try.
Must-Try!
Kibbeh is a Levantine dish made of bulgur, minced onions, and finely ground lean meat. It is often flavored with Middle Eastern spices and shaped into balls or patties. It is available in many local eateries and is a beloved dish among locals and visitors alike.
Warak Enab, or stuffed grape leaves, is another iconic dish in the area. These grape leaves are typically stuffed with a tantalizing mixture of rice, minced meat, and aromatic spices, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Dar‘ā better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Al-Qusoor Street Market is a bustling hub of street food stalls offering a wide array of local delights. Here, you can savor shawarma, falafel, and freshly-prepared kebabs, all bursting with authentic flavors. It's an excellent place to experience the vibrant street food culture of Dar‘ā.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Dar‘ā, it is customary to greet people with a handshake and a verbal greeting. It is important to address people using their titles and show respect in interactions.
Hospitality is highly valued in Dar‘ā. When visiting someone's home, it is polite to accept any offers of food or drink and show appreciation for the host's generosity.
Respecting elders is an essential cultural norm in Dar‘ā. It is important to show deference and listen attentively when elders are speaking.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Dar‘ā with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Dar‘ā
Ensure a smooth experience
In Dar‘ā, Syria, tipping is not a common practice and is usually not expected in most situations. However, in upscale establishments such as hotels and high-end restaurants, a small tip may be appreciated for exceptional service.
Cash is the most widely accepted form of payment in Dar‘ā, Syria. Credit cards may be accepted in some larger establishments, but it's always best to have cash on hand, especially when visiting smaller shops or markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Dar‘ā.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Dar‘ā. Pleasant weather with blooming flowers and greenery.
Hot and dry weather. Expect high temperatures and sunny days.
Mild weather with occasional rainfall. Good time for outdoor activities.
Cool weather with some chances of rain. Off-peak tourist season.
Dar‘ā at Night
Hiking in Dar‘ā
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A mountain range offering various trails with stunning views and diverse flora and fauna.
Located on the border, it provides trails for hiking with picturesque landscapes and rich biodiversity.
A beautiful area for hiking, showcasing natural beauty and opportunities for wildlife observation.
A region with multiple hiking routes that feature dramatic views, historical sites, and natural springs.
Offers scenic trails along the river, ideal for hiking and experiencing local wildlife.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Dar‘ā through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Dar‘ā by plane.
The main international airport serving the capital city of Syria, Damascus. It is approximately 110 kilometers north of Dar‘ā.
Located in Amman, Jordan, this airport is about 150 kilometers southwest of Dar‘ā and serves as a major hub for international flights in and out of the region.
The primary airport serving Beirut, Lebanon. It is approximately 220 kilometers to the west of Dar‘ā.
Located in Aqaba, Jordan, this airport is about 200 kilometers to the south of Dar‘ā and offers international flights primarily to leisure destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Dar‘ā, encompassing various sub-groups and tribal affiliations.
A religious and ethnic minority who primarily inhabit the south of Syria, particularly around the Jabal al-Druze region.
A significant community in Dar‘ā, largely composed of those who have migrated from Palestine, especially since the mid-20th century.
An ethnic group descended from Circassian immigrants who settled in Syria during the Ottoman Empire.
A smaller but historically significant community, originating from Armenian immigrants during the early 20th century.
The Soul of Dar‘ā
Discover the essence of Dar‘ā through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Dar‘ā, with many local teams and enthusiastic fans. The sport is played at all levels, from youth leagues to amateur clubs.
Basketball enjoys popularity among the youth in Dar‘ā, with many schools and community centers providing facilities for play and training.
Track and field events are popular in Dar‘ā, with schools and local clubs encouraging participation in various athletic disciplines.
Volleyball is played in both recreational and competitive formats, particularly among youth and in community sports events.
Traditional wrestling styles have historical significance and continue to be practiced and celebrated in various local competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dar‘ā.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat dishes are prevalent, many local eateries offer delicious vegetarian options such as falafel, hummus, baba ghanoush, and flavorful salads. Additionally, some restaurants are accustomed to catering to vegan diets, ensuring a satisfactory dining experience for all visitors.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can indulge in dishes like grilled meats, fresh salads, and rice-based meals, which are abundantly available in the local dining scene. Communicating your dietary needs clearly to the restaurant staff can often result in tailored gluten-free dining options.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Dar‘ā with these cultural adventures.
