Day 1: Arrival in Damascus
Welcome to Syria! When you arrive in Damascus, take it slow and shake off the jet lag. Spend your afternoon wandering the historic Old City.
Start by visiting the Umayyad Mosque, one of the oldest and largest mosques in the world. It’s not only a place of worship but also a piece of art. Right next to the mosque, you’ll find the mausoleum of Saladin, the famous Muslim general.
Walk through Souq Al-Hamidiyah. It’s a bustling market where you can buy spices, fabrics, and local handicrafts. Don’t rush it; enjoy strolling around and maybe bargaining for a souvenir.
In the evening, enjoy some local food in a cozy restaurant. Try “fattet hummus” or “kebab.” The food here is incredibly delicious and usually affordable.
Day 2: Damascus Exploration
Start your day with a visit to the National Museum of Damascus. It’s a great place to understand Syria’s rich history with artifacts from across the country. You’ll find exhibits from before the Roman Empire to the Islamic periods.
Afterward, head to Azem Palace. This is a beautiful Ottoman-era building turned into a museum. It gives you insight into how elite families used to live. The courtyard is peaceful and makes for a great photo stop.
For lunch, try a falafel sandwich from a local vendor. These are super affordable and an authentic taste of everyday Syrian food.
In the afternoon, visit the House of Saint Ananias in Bab Sharqi. Tradition says this is where Saint Paul was baptized after his conversion to Christianity.
As the day winds down, make your way up to Mount Qasioun for a panoramic view of the city. The sunsets here are often spectacular. You’ll also get a big-picture look at Damascus—the world’s oldest continually inhabited city.
Day 3: Day Trip to Maaloula
A short drive from Damascus will take you to Maaloula, a picturesque Christian village where people still speak Aramaic, the language of Jesus.
Visit St. Sergius Church. It’s one of the oldest churches in the world and dates back to the 4th century. The narrow alleys and rock-cut paths of Maaloula are beautiful to wander through.
Later, explore the Convent of Saint Thecla. According to local legend, it’s the tomb of Saint Thecla, who is revered in both Orthodox Christianity and local traditions.
Don’t rush back to Damascus. You deserve some time here to absorb the peaceful atmosphere.
Return to Damascus by evening, where you can relax after a day of exploration.
Day 4: Palmyra (Tadmur)
Today, set out early for a road trip to the ancient city of Palmyra. It’s a bit further from Damascus, but absolutely worth it.
Once a trading hub on the Silk Road, Palmyra was a thriving civilization. While much of it was damaged in recent years, many areas still stand tall, offering a fascinating glimpse into its ancient past.
Take your time exploring the Temple of Bel, visit the theater, and see the Roman-style colonnades. You can easily picture the grandeur of this place in its heyday.
In the evening, spend the night in a nearby guesthouse or return to Damascus if you prefer.
Day 5: Hama and Crac des Chevaliers
Today is all about two stops. Start with a visit to Hama, a city known for its enormous Norias (water wheels). These wheels date back to the 14th century and were used to supply water to the city. Take a walk by the Orontes River and visit the remains of the ancient water system.
For lunch, Hama has delightful cafes where you can relax and try more local food. Keep it light, as adventure awaits in the afternoon.
Next, visit Crac des Chevaliers. This is one of the best-preserved Crusader castles in the world. Wander around the ramparts, and take in the views. You can practically feel the history here.
Return to Hama for the night, or you can head to the coastal city of Latakia, a few hours away, if you want to catch the sunset by the sea.
Day 6: Latakia and Ugarit
Start your day in Latakia, a coastal town that offers a bit of a change from the historical cities inland. You can spend your morning lounging by the Mediterranean Sea. There are several nice beaches, and if you’re lucky, you might have one almost to yourself.
For those interested in history, a short drive away is Ugarit, the ancient city where the first alphabet was discovered. Spend an hour or two exploring the ruins. It’s small but incredible in its historical significance.
For dinner, catch some fresh seafood at a beachside restaurant in Latakia. Watch the sun set over the Mediterranean before retiring for the evening.
Day 7: Return to Damascus
On your last day, make your way back to Damascus. If you’ve still got some energy and time, stroll through the Christian Quarter and visit St. Paul’s Chapel. It’s a quiet and serene spot that’s a nice place for a final walk before you head home.
If you’ve saved your shopping for today, don’t miss the chance to stock up on spices or some local crafts from Souq Al-Hamidiyah.
As your trip through Syria comes to a close, enjoy a final Syrian coffee in one of the cafes. Reflect on the incredible blend of history, culture, and landscapes you’ve experienced over the last week.
Safe travels, and cherish the memories you’ve made!
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