Syria isn’t the first place that comes to mind for most travelers, but if you’re up for an adventure, this country will surprise you. With ancient cities, stunning ruins, and a rich culture that’s stood the test of time, Syria offers a unique look into the Middle East that you won’t find anywhere else. Although tourism has suffered due to the conflict, the country is working hard to rebuild and welcome visitors once again.
Where is Syria?
Syria is located in the Middle East, bordered by Turkey to the north, Iraq to the east, Jordan to the south, Israel and Lebanon to the southwest, and the Mediterranean Sea to the west. Its strategic location has shaped much of its history and culture, making it a crossroads of ancient civilizations.
The Capital: Damascus
Damascus is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. It’s a city steeped in history, with its old town full of mosques, churches, vibrant markets, and thousands of years of human heritage.
The Old City of Damascus is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it’s a place where you can get lost in time, wander narrow alleyways, and marvel at architecture that has seen empires rise and fall. Don’t miss the Umayyad Mosque, which is one of the most important sacred sites in Islam, and the Azem Palace, a fine example of Ottoman architecture.
Language and Currency
The official language of Syria is Arabic. English and French are also spoken, especially in larger cities and among the younger generation, but if you can learn basic Arabic phrases, the locals will appreciate it.
The currency in Syria is the Syrian pound (SYP). ATMs can be tricky to find in certain areas, and many places prefer cash, so it’s a good idea to carry some local currency with you.
Religion and Culture
Syria is predominantly Muslim, with about 90% of the population following Sunni Islam. There are also significant Christian communities, particularly in places like Damascus and Aleppo. Religion plays a big part in daily life here, but it’s always balanced with the strong Syrian sense of hospitality.
The Syrians are known for their friendliness and warm hospitality. As a visitor, you may be invited to homes for tea or meals. It’s important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
Aleppo: The Commercial Hub
Aleppo, once Syria’s largest city, was a major commercial center in the region. The city’s souk (market), citadel, and historic sites were world-renowned before the war. While it took heavy damage, efforts to rehabilitate the city are underway, and parts of Aleppo are slowly coming back to life.
The Aleppo Citadel is one of the largest and oldest castles in the world. It’s a must-see. Standing at the top, you’ll have panoramic views of the city and get a real sense of Aleppo’s historical significance.
Unique Cultural Highlights: Food and Traditions
If you visit Syria, the food alone will make your trip worthwhile. Syrian cuisine is a mix of Arabic, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern flavors. Expect grilled meats, flatbreads, falafel, and plenty of mezze (appetizers). Popular dishes include kebabs, hummus, and tabbouleh.
Syrian coffee, strong and often flavored with cardamom, is part of daily life here. Sharing a coffee with locals can lead to long conversations and offers a great opportunity to connect with the culture.
In addition to food, traditional crafts like inlaid woodwork, mosaic art, and handwoven textiles are still alive in Syria. Damascus, in particular, is famous for its silk brocade and exquisite handicrafts.
Palmyra: The Ancient Ruins
One of Syria’s most famous attractions is Palmyra, an ancient city located in the desert. Known as the “Bride of the Desert,” Palmyra was once a vibrant hub along the Silk Road, connecting Asia and Europe through trade routes.
Palmyra has seen better days, as much of it suffered destruction during recent conflicts. However, several monuments and structures still stand, and restoration efforts are ongoing. If you’re into ancient history, this site is worth a visit.
The Temple of Bel and the Roman theater are highlights, along with towering columns that evoke the power and importance of this once-great city.
Homs and Hama: More Gems Between Cities
Homs, like many cities in Syria, was heavily affected by the war, but it’s slowly recovering. The city is known for the Khalid ibn al-Walid mosque and its striking black-and-white stripes.
Hama, to the north, is famous for its ancient wooden water wheels (norias) that once provided water for irrigation. These are towering, creaky, and visually fascinating as they slowly turn along the Orontes River. There might not be much to do in Hama, but the water wheels are a unique Syrian sight you won’t find elsewhere.
Crac des Chevaliers: The Crusader Castle
If you’re into castles, Syria has one of the best-preserved in the world: Crac des Chevaliers. Built during the Crusades, this hilltop fortress offers a stunning look into medieval history. It’s enormous and, from the top, gives a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside.
Crac des Chevaliers is in a relatively isolated spot, so you’ll likely need to arrange a guided tour or rent a car to visit it. But the reward is worth it. Wandering through the castle brings you back to a time when knights roamed the land.
Deir ez-Zor: The Remote Side
For the more adventurous travelers, Deir ez-Zor offers a look into the less-visited side of Syria. It’s remote and was heavily impacted by conflict, but it’s also an area rich in history.
Deir ez-Zor is near the mighty Euphrates River and the site of ancient Mesopotamian civilizations. The Deir ez-Zor suspension bridge, although damaged, is a historic landmark along the river. It’s a place that fewer tourists visit, but if you’re seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, you might want to make the journey here.
Safety Considerations
Let’s address the elephant in the room: safety. Syria has been through a lot in recent years, and it’s not on most travelers’ top destinations for that reason. However, certain areas are secure, especially in and around Damascus. Make sure you carefully check the latest travel advisories and consult local guides.
It’s essential to travel with a trusted tour operator who knows the regions well. Avoid traveling near the borders with Iraq and Turkey, as those areas are still unstable.
Getting Around
Transportation in Syria isn’t like it is in many other countries. Public transport options can be limited, and not all routes are reliable. It’s common for travelers to hire private drivers or use shared taxis (known as “service”) for travel between cities.
The roads, particularly in cities like Damascus and Aleppo, are decent, though not always well-marked. If you’re planning to move around a lot, it’s a good idea to arrange transportation ahead of time.
Tips for Visiting Syria
Here are a few things to keep in mind if you plan on visiting Syria:
- Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially locals at religious sites or military areas.
- Dress modestly to respect local customs, especially while visiting religious or traditional sites.
- Learn some basic Arabic phrases—it will go a long way in connecting with locals and navigating daily life.
- Hire a local guide if possible. They can offer insights you wouldn’t get on your own and help you explore safely.
Despite everything Syria has gone through, it remains a land of incredible history, beauty, and resilience. If you’re looking for a destination away from the usual tourist circuits, and don’t mind a bit of adventure, Syria stands ready to welcome you.
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