Day 1: Arriving in Damascus
Start your trip in Syria with a visit to its capital, Damascus. This city claims to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.
Spend some time getting lost in the Old City. Walk through the narrow alleys and get a feel for Damascus’ unique vibe. The souks are a good place to explore too—especially Souk al-Hamidiyah, the largest market in the city.
Later, head to the Umayyad Mosque. It’s massive and extremely beautiful with its impressive mosaics. Non-Muslims are welcome, as long as you respect the local etiquette.
For dinner, try some local dishes at one of the small nearby eateries. Go for some hummus, kebabs, and tabouleh. Syrian food is tasty and affordable.
Where to stay in Damascus
Check out boutique hotels in the Old City area. They are traditional, atmospheric, and close to many of the main attractions.
Day 2: Exploring Damascus
After breakfast, make your way to the National Museum of Damascus. This museum gives you a great overview of Syria’s long history with artifacts from all over the country.
Next, visit the Azem Palace. This Ottoman-era palace is filled with beautiful rooms and exhibits on life in Syria during that period.
When you’re done, head toward Straight Street. This iconic road cuts through the Old City and is a reminder of Damascus’ Roman past. It’s also great for photography and strolling.
In the afternoon, stop by Mount Qasioun, which overlooks the city. Try to make it up here before sunset; the views are stunning, especially as the sun goes down.
Dinner recommendation
Try Beit Jabri, a restaurant in an old Damascene house. It’s perfect for a relaxing drinks break or a casual dinner with traditional Syrian food.
Day 3: Palmyra
Today, you’ll head out of Damascus for a day trip to Palmyra. Travel early to make the most of your time.
Located in the Syrian Desert, Palmyra is an ancient city famous for its Greco-Roman Temple of Bel, colonnades, and monumental archways. While the site was heavily damaged in recent conflicts, many of the ruins still stand.
You can hire a local guide to bring the place to life. They’ll tell you stories and help you understand the historical and cultural significance of the place.
Be prepared for the desert heat and bring water. There’s not much there in terms of restaurants, so it’s good to pack snacks as well.
Return to Damascus in the late afternoon and spend your evening at a local café.
Transportation tips
Public buses can take you to the outskirts of Palmyra, but renting a private car or joining a small group tour is usually more convenient.
Day 4: Krak des Chevaliers and Homs
Depart early from Damascus and make your way northeast to Krak des Chevaliers—a Crusader castle that lies in between Homs and Tartus.
Krak des Chevaliers is incredibly well-preserved and looks like something straight out of a medieval movie. Spend a few hours exploring its halls, towers, and courtyards. Don’t skip the views from the top, either.
On your way back, stop by the city of Homs for lunch. Visit the Khalid ibn al-Walid Mosque before wandering through what remains of the old town. It’s a somber but necessary stop.
Return to Damascus for your last night, or if you’re up for it, look for accommodations in nearby Homs or even Aleppo if you have time to push north.
Accommodation options in Homs
Consider some of the small family-run hotels or guesthouses in the city. They’re simple but welcoming and affordable. Perfect for a short stay.
Day 5: Aleppo
If you make it up to Aleppo, day five can be spent discovering this resilient ancient city. The old city was devastated by war, but restoration efforts are ongoing.
The highlight here is the Citadel of Aleppo. Sitting on a huge hill with walls that rise dramatically above the old town, the views over the city are fantastic.
Despite much of the city’s destruction, you’ll find that souks and churches are slowly coming back to life. Explore this mix of old and new as you walk through its streets.
Grab a shawarma or some falafel from a local market and taste the distinct flavors of northern Syrian cuisine.
Heading back to Damascus
You can take a bus or train from Aleppo back to Damascus, or if you’d rather take things slow, spend an extra night here before making the return journey.
Other Tips for Traveling in Syria
– **Safety**: It’s important to always check the current travel advisories about Syria before making plans. While some areas are safe to visit, other regions may not be.
– **Currency**: Bring cash, since international cards are rarely accepted. ATMs might also be unreliable. U.S. dollars and euros are usually easy to exchange.
– **Dress code**: Syria is conservative, so dress modestly, especially in religious sites and rural areas.
– **Transport**: Syria doesn’t have as many rental car options, so buses, shared taxis, and private drivers are the best ways to get around.
– **Communication**: Internet access might be limited in certain cities. Make sure to download offline maps and translate apps before arrival.
– **Cuisine**: Syrian food is incredible, but hygiene can vary. Always drink bottled water and eat at busy places to ensure food is fresh.
Final Thoughts
Five days in Syria is enough to give you a glimpse of its history, culture, and resilience. With a mix of ancient ruins, vibrant cities, and great food, this trip will leave you wanting more. The pace is unhurried to give you time to appreciate the country at your own speed. Do your research for updates on safety and keep an open mind—Syria is unlike anywhere else you’ll visit.
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