Things To Do
in Nawá
Nawá is a rural town in the Daraa Governorate of southern Syria, surrounded by olive groves and a landscape of rolling hills. Its old quarter hints at a richer past through white-washed walls and winding lanes. Today, Nawá sits at the edge of regional upheaval, with safety conditions strongly influencing travel plans.
Visiting requires careful planning, local insight, and a flexible itinerary to adapt to changing circumstances.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the ancient ruins of the Citadel of Nawá, where you can marvel at the centuries-old architecture. Wander through the narrow streets lined with traditional stone houses and absorb the rich history that surrounds you. Stop by a local café for a refreshing cup of Arabic coffee, enjoying the vibrant morning atmosphere.
After a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant, explore the local market, where vendors offer a variety of handmade crafts and spices. Engage with the friendly locals to learn about their culture and traditions, enhancing your understanding of the region. As you stroll, keep an eye out for unique souvenirs to take home as reminders of your visit.
As the sun sets, head to a rooftop terrace to enjoy panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. Indulge in a traditional dinner featuring local delicacies such as kebabs and flatbreads, all while enjoying the gentle evening breeze. Conclude your day by listening to captivating stories from locals about the history and legends of Nawá.
Start your day with a hands-on cooking class led by a local chef who will introduce you to traditional Syrian cuisine. Learn how to prepare popular dishes using fresh ingredients sourced from the local market, gaining insights into culinary techniques passed down through generations. Enjoy the delightful aroma of spices as you work alongside fellow travelers and locals.
After enjoying the fruits of your labor during lunch, visit a nearby museum to explore exhibits dedicated to Nawá's rich heritage and artistic traditions. Engage with knowledgeable guides who will provide context and stories that bring the artifacts to life. Spend some time reflecting on your experiences in a serene garden nearby, surrounded by beautiful flora.
In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the historic streets, illuminated by the warm glow of lanterns. Stop by a local tea house to savor traditional herbal tea and engage in conversations with the locals who frequent the spot. This intimate setting provides a perfect opportunity to forge new friendships and deepen your understanding of Syrian hospitality.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at café | $1-3 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $2-6 |
| 🌯Street food snack | $1-4 |
| 🥖Bread or groceries from market | $0.5-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural and historical backdrop with welcoming locals
- Scenic rural landscapes and authentic Levantine cuisine
- Safety and access can change quickly due to regional instability
- Limited infrastructure and healthcare options outside major cities
- "السلام عليكم" - Hello / Peace be upon you
- "شكراً" - Thank you
- "من فضلك" - Please
- "كم السعر؟" - How much is this?
- "أين الحمام؟" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Nawá
Visit one of these nice places.
Narrow lanes, white-washed walls, and ornate doors offer intimate, human-scale compositions with soft daylight.
A vantage point on the town’s edge provides sweeping views of surrounding olive groves and the valley beyond, ideal for sunsets.
Candid market scenes with vendors, baskets, and daily routines present vibrant, textured photography opportunities.
Gentle expanses of trees and light filtering through leaves make for peaceful landscape shots and intimate portraits.
Food in Nawá
Nawá Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy chickpea dip flavored with tahini, garlic, and lemon; best enjoyed with fluffy, hot bread from a local bakery.
Must-Try!
Lentils and rice topped with caramelized onions, a staple comforting dish often served with yogurt and salad.
Grilled marinated meat skewers served with vegetables and bread; a common choice at family-run eateries.
Herb- and vegetable-based salads featuring fresh greens, tomatoes, cucumber, and crispy bread in the former, or bulgur, parsley, and lemon in the latter.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A compact market area where you can taste street-food staples such as falafel wraps, shawarma, fresh fruit, and olives, plus vendors selling bread and herbs.
Seasonal stalls offering olive oil samples, flatbreads, and small savories packed for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly in public spaces, especially in religious sites and traditional neighborhoods.
Greet with a calm, respectful tone, and accept tea or coffee with both hands when offered. Avoid discussing sensitive political topics in informal settings.
Ask for permission before photographing people or private family spaces. A gentle nod or a few words in Arabic can help.
Safety
Tipping in Nawá
Ensure a smooth experience
In casual eateries and cafes, rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip (about 5-10%) is appreciated. In fine dining, 10% is common if service is not included.
Cash in small denominations is widely used. Some places may accept USD or cards in limited shops; expect cash-based transactions in markets and rural areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes make it ideal for outdoor exploration and photography. Pack light layers and sun protection.
Very hot and dry; carry water, wear a hat, and schedule outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon. Expect long daylight hours.
Pleasant temperatures, clear skies, and harvest-time aromas in markets. A good season for walking and street photography.
Cool to cool-warm days with possible rain. Bring a warm layer and waterproofs; indoor dining can be a cozy refuge.
Nawá at Night
Hiking in Nawá
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle nature loop through surrounding groves with partial shade and hillside viewpoints, suitable for a half-day hike.
A moderate route offering panoramic views of the valley and countryside; best enjoyed at sunrise or sunset.
Airports
How to reach Nawá by plane.
The primary international gateway for the region; access to Damascus and onward travel can be affected by road conditions and security considerations.
Jordan's main international airport; located across the border and accessible via overland routes when travel permits and safety allow.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Arab Syrians, predominantly Sunni Muslim, living in a rural, family-centered community.
Small numbers of other communities and refugees in the broader region; diversity is limited within the town itself.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across the region, played in schools, local clubs, and informal pick-up games in town squares.
Common in schools and community centers, with local leagues and friendly competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nawá.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes are plant-based or can be adapted. Look for mujadara, hummus, salad platters, falafel, and bread with olive oil as satisfying vegetarian options.