Things To Do
in Şāfītā
Şāfītā is a historic town perched in the foothills north of Damascus, known for its ancient fortifications and stone-built neighborhoods. The town sits along historic routes that have linked inland Syria with the coast for centuries. Visitors can explore Crusader-era ruins, Ottoman-era architecture, and panoramic views over nearby hills and valleys.
Today it blends traditional Levantine culture with a quieter pace, making it a gateway to historic sites and rural scenery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Latakia International Airport and enjoy a scenic drive through the coastal mountains to Şāfītā. Check into a charming guesthouse overlooking the valley. Savor a cup of strong Syrian coffee at the local café as you settle in.
Embark on a guided walking tour of Şāfītā’s old town, wandering the whitewashed alleys and discovering hidden fountains. Learn about the town’s unique history of religious coexistence from a knowledgeable local guide. Stop at a family-run bakery to sample freshly baked khubz.
Watch the sun dip below the Jebel Ansariye range from the terrace of your guesthouse. Feast on a traditional mezze dinner featuring muhammara, tabbouleh, and stuffed vine leaves. End the night with stargazing under the clear mountain sky.
Set off early to visit the iconic Krak des Chevaliers, one of the best-preserved Crusader castles in the world. Explore its towering walls, secret passages, and grand halls with a local guide. Photograph the panoramic views over the Homs Gap.
Enjoy a picnic lunch beneath ancient oak trees on the castle grounds, sampling homemade flatbreads and olives. Wander along the outer bailey to admire the battlements from every angle. Visit the small onsite museum to learn about the Crusader occupation.
Return to Şāfītā and stroll through the lively town square as the lanterns glow. Dine at a family-run restaurant and taste classic Aleppine kibbeh and stewed lamb. Share stories with friendly locals over warm cups of mint tea.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range) | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $0.5-2 |
| 🥖Bread and staple groceries | $1-4 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short local) | $1-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and welcoming communities
- Compact town with walkable center
- Travel to the area may be affected by regional instability
- Limited infrastructure for international travelers
- "مرحبا" - Hello
- "شكراً" - Thank you
- "من فضلك" - Please
- "عفواً" - Excuse me
- "بكم هذا؟" - How much is this?
- "أين هذا المكان؟" - Where is this place?
- "أريد هذا" - I would like this
- "صباح الخير" - Good morning
- "نعم" - Yes
- "لا" - No
- "ساعدني" - Help me
- "هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Şāfītā
Visit one of these nice places.
Narrow, winding streets and ancient stone facades provide classic Levantine street photography opportunities.
Ruins with panoramic views of the town and surrounding hills—great for sunset shots.
Scenic viewpoints along the river with verdant banks and distant valleys.
A vantage point for capturing the silhouette of the town against the sky at dusk.
Food in Şāfītā
Şāfītā Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Meat-filled bulgur croquettes, fried or baked; a staple in many local eateries.
Must-Try!
Walnut and red pepper dip with olive oil, served with warm bread.
Creamy chickpea dip with tahini and lemon, enjoyed with fresh bread.
Skewered grilled meat marinated with herbs and spices.
Crispy chickpea or fava bean croquettes served in flatbread or on platters.
Herbed salads using parsley, bulgur, tomatoes, cucumbers, and olive oil.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small, weekly market offering fresh bread, vegetables, olives, and shared street snacks; best in the morning.
Stalls around the central plaza offer quick bites like falafel, shawarma, and pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Salam' or 'Marhaba.' Handshakes are common among strangers; let locals lead with etiquette in more formal settings.
Dress modestly in public spaces, especially for women; shoulders and knees should be covered in many settings.
Accept hospitality when offered; meals are often shared and conversations are valued.
Safety
Tipping in Şāfītā
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary for good service, typically around 5-10% if a service charge is not included. Small tips to guides and staff are appreciated.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming wildflowers, and comfortable days for walking and outdoor photography.
Hot and dry; carry water and seek shade in higher-elevation areas or early morning/late evening outings.
Pleasant days with cooler evenings; good for hikes and outdoor markets.
Cool to cold with occasional rain; higher elevations may see light snow—pack layers.
Şāfītā at Night
Hiking in Şāfītā
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate hikes with views over the Orontes Valley; trails vary in ruggedness.
Historic fortress and surrounding countryside suitable for day hikes and photography.
Airports
How to reach Şāfītā by plane.
Main international gateway for central Syria; transfer to Safita by road takes several hours depending on security and road conditions.
Coastal gateway to northwestern Syria; longer drive to Safita but useful for regional trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant group in the region with a mix of Sunni communities; businesses and daily life are common in the town.
Smaller Christian and Alawite populations also present in the wider area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Syria, with local matches and casual play in towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Şāfītā.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Rely on hummus, falafel, grilled vegetables, lentil stews, and salads. Request meat-free stocks and confirm ingredients when ordering.