Syria Travel Guide (Middle East/Asia)

Introduction to Syria

Syria is a country located in the Middle East, in Asia. It is an ancient land rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Syria boasts of some of the world’s most spectacular historical sites, from ancient Roman ruins to medieval citadels. The country is also home to some of the world’s most stunning natural attractions, including majestic mountains, scenic valleys, and fertile plains.

List of Places to Visit in Syria

Syria has a wealth of sights to explore. Here are some of the must-see attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

The ancient city of Damascus: The capital of Syria is home to the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world.
The city of Aleppo: This ancient city has a long and rich history and is home to many important historical sites, including the Citadel of Aleppo.
The Umayyad Mosque: Located in Damascus, this mosque is one of the oldest and most important in the world.
The Roman ruins of Palmyra: This ancient city was one of the most important stops on the Silk Road and is home to the stunning Temple of Bel.
The Krak des Chevaliers: This medieval castle is one of the most well-preserved and impressive in the world.

Natural Attractions of Syria: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Mount Hermon: Located in the Golan Heights, this majestic mountain is a popular destination for hiking and skiing.
The Orontes Valley: This picturesque valley is home to some of Syria’s most fertile farmland and is a popular destination for hiking and camping.
The Dead Cities: These ancient villages, located in the northwestern part of the country, are home to some of the best-preserved examples of Roman and Byzantine architecture in the world.
The Euphrates Valley: This valley is the heart of Syria’s agricultural industry and is home to some of the country’s most stunning scenery.
The Mediterranean Coast: Syria’s coastline is home to numerous picturesque beaches and charming seaside towns.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Syria

Syria has some of the best hiking and biking routes in the Middle East. Here are some of the most popular:

The Damascus-to-Beirut Trail: This 470-kilometer route takes hikers and bikers through some of Syria’s most stunning scenery.
The Homs-to-Maaloula Route: This 80-kilometer trail takes hikers through some of the country’s most beautiful natural landscapes, including the Orontes Valley and the Qadisha Valley.
The Mount Hermon Trail: This 20-kilometer trail takes hikers and bikers through some of the most stunning scenery in Syria, including Mount Hermon and the Golan Heights.

Best Things to Do in Syria: Activities and Tours

Syria offers a wide range of activities and tours for visitors. Here are some of the best things to do:

Take a tour of the ancient city of Damascus: This tour takes you through the old city of Damascus, including the Umayyad Mosque, the Citadel, and the Straight Street.
Explore the Roman ruins of Palmyra: This tour takes you through the magnificent ruins of this ancient city, including the Temple of Bel, the Great Colonnade, and the Roman Theatre.
Visit the souks of Aleppo: The souks of Aleppo are some of the most famous in the world and offer a wide range of goods, from spices to textiles.
Take a hot air balloon ride over the Euphrates Valley: This tour gives you a unique perspective of the stunning scenery of the Euphrates Valley.
Go skiing on Mount Hermon: Mount Hermon is one of the best places to go skiing in the Middle East and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Week-Long Itinerary for Syria

If you’re planning to stay in Syria for a week, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day	Destination
1	Damascus
2	Bosra and Soueida
3	Palmyra
4	Aleppo
5	Latakia and Tartous
6	Qal’at Salah El-Din and Krac des Chevaliers
7	Damascus

Food and Drink Scene of Syria

Syrian cuisine is known for its rich flavors and use of fresh, local ingredients. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Hummus: A savory dip made with chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic.
Kebab: Chunks of meat grilled on skewers and served with vegetables and rice.
Shawarma: Thinly sliced meat (usually lamb or chicken) cooked on a spit and wrapped in pita bread with vegetables and sauce.
Fatayer: Baked pastries filled with spinach, cheese, or meat.
Baba ghanoush: A dip made with roasted eggplant, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic.

Local Beverages

Arak: An anise-flavored liquor that is the national drink of Syria.
Tea: Syrian tea is a black tea flavored with mint and sugar.
Jallab: A sweet, refreshing drink made with grape molasses, rosewater, and pine nuts.

Where to Stay in Syria: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Syria has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Here are some suggestions:

Hotel Damascus: Located in the heart of Damascus, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and a range of amenities.
Beit Sitti: This guesthouse in the old city of Damascus offers charming rooms and a rooftop terrace with stunning views.
Beit Al-Wali: This guesthouse in Aleppo offers stylish rooms and a courtyard garden.
Al-Assa’ada Hotel: Located in the historic city of Palmyra, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and stunning views of the ruins.
Zaki Hotel: This family-run hotel in Latakia offers comfortable rooms and a rooftop terrace with views of the sea.

What to Buy in Syria: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Syria is known for its textiles, ceramics, and handicrafts. Here are some items to consider bringing home:

Damask silk: Syrian silk is renowned for its quality and is available in a range of colors and patterns.
Ceramic dishes: Handmade ceramic dishes are a popular souvenir, particularly those decorated with traditional Syrian designs.
Mosaic art: Syria is home to some of the world’s most impressive mosaic art, which can be found on everything from mirrors to tabletops.
Spices: Syrian spices are known for their quality and flavor, particularly Aleppo pepper and sumac.
Olive oil soap: This traditional soap is made from pure olive oil and is known for its moisturizing properties.

Local Culture and Customs of Syria

Syrian culture is a blend of Islamic, Arab, and Mediterranean influences. Visitors to Syria should be aware of the following customs:

Dress modestly: It is customary to dress modestly when visiting mosques, churches, and other religious sites.
Respect local traditions: Syrians are known for their hospitality, but it is important to respect local customs and traditions.
Don’t eat with your left hand: It is considered rude to eat with your left hand in Syria.
Greet people with salaam alaykum: This traditional Arabic greeting means “peace be upon you” and is used to greet friends, family members, and strangers.
Don’t show the soles of your feet: It is considered impolite to show the soles of your feet in Syria.

Best Time to Visit Syria

The best time to visit Syria is in the spring months (March-May) or the fall months (September-November), when the weather is mild and comfortable. The summer months (June-August) can be very hot, while the winter months (December-February) can be cold and rainy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Syria

Here are some things to do and not to do when visiting Syria:

Do:

Learn a few Arabic phrases: This will help you to communicate with locals and show that you respect their culture.
Take off your shoes when entering a mosque or someone’s home: This is a sign of respect.
Try the street food: Syrian street food is delicious and a great way to experience local culture.
Visit local markets: This is a great way to experience the hustle and bustle of everyday life in Syria.

Don’t:

Take photographs of military installations: It is illegal to take photographs of military installations in Syria.
Drink tap water: It is recommended that visitors drink bottled water to avoid waterborne illnesses.
Touch or discuss politics: Syria is a politically sensitive country, and visitors should avoid discussing politics or touching political symbols.
Show public displays of affection: Public displays of affection are considered impolite in Syria.

Safety and Health

Safety in Syria

Syria has experienced political instability and violence in recent years, and visitors should be aware of the risks involved in traveling to the country. It is important to check the latest travel advisories before planning a trip to Syria.

Health in Syria

Visitors to Syria should ensure they are up to date on routine vaccinations, including measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio, and influenza. Travelers should also consider getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and rabies. Visitors should also take precautions to avoid foodborne illnesses, such as washing hands before eating and drinking only bottled water.

Getting to Syria: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Syria

The main international airport in Syria is Damascus International Airport. Other airports in the region include Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport in Lebanon and Adana Şakirpaşa Airport in Turkey.

Bus Stations Near Syria

Bus services in Syria are operated by the Syrian Transportation Establishment. Buses run regularly between major cities, and tickets can be purchased at bus stations or online.

Other Options

Visitors to Syria can also travel by taxi, although it is important to negotiate the fare beforehand. Private car rentals are also available.

How to Get Around in Syria

Syria has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and shared taxis. Visitors can also hire private drivers and taxis.

Where to Go Next from Syria: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Syria is surrounded by other countries in the Middle East, making it a great starting point for further exploration. Some nearby destinations and excursions include:

Lebanon: This neighboring country is home to bustling cities, stunning natural scenery, and a rich cultural heritage.
Jordan: Jordan is home to some of the most impressive historical sites in the Middle East, including the ancient city of Petra.
Turkey: This vast country is a melting pot of cultures, with a rich history and stunning scenery.
Israel: This small country has a lot to offer, from ancient religious sites to modern cities.

Conclusion

Syria may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of a travel destination, but it is a country with a rich cultural and natural heritage that is well worth exploring. Visitors to Syria can expect stunning historical sites, breathtaking natural landscapes, delicious food, and warm hospitality. If you’re planning a trip to Syria, be sure to consult this comprehensive travel guide to make the most of your visit.