Damascus Travel Guide

Discover the best cultural attractions, natural wonders, food and drink scene, where to stay, and how to get around Damascus, Syria.


Introduction to Damascus

Damascus, the capital of Syria, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, dating back to the third millennium BC. Damascus offers a unique blend of cultures, religions, and traditions with an abundance of historical sites, museums, and bustling marketplaces.

List of Places to Visit in Damascus

Here are some of the top places to explore in Damascus:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Umayyad Mosque: Located in the heart of the old city, this mosque dates back to the 8th century AD and is one of the largest and oldest mosques in the world.
  • National Museum of Damascus: This museum showcases an extensive collection of artifacts from ancient civilizations, including the time of the Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic empires.
  • Azem Palace: A stunning 18th-century palace converted into a museum, featuring traditional Syrian architecture, furnishings, and art.
  • Maaloula: A small town outside of Damascus, famous for its ancient history, religious significance, and stunning views.

Natural Attractions of Damascus: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Qasioun: Offering panoramic views over Damascus, this mountain is popular with hikers and bikers, and it is also said to be the site of the tomb of Adam.
  • Barada River: A beautiful river that runs through the old city, providing a serene backdrop to the bustling markets.
  • Al-Hijaz Railway: A historic railway that has been converted into a scenic hiking and biking trail, offering stunning views and cultural sites along the way.
  • The Oasis of Yabroud: Located just outside of Damascus, this nature reserve offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and natural hot springs.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Damascus

Damascus is a hiker and biker’s paradise, with many scenic routes to explore. Some of the best include:

  • Mount Qasioun: A challenging hike or bike ride, but well worth it for the views at the top.
  • Al-Hijaz Railway: Follow the old railway tracks for a flat, scenic route.
  • Damascus Countryside: Explore the surrounding countryside and villages on a leisurely bike ride.

Best Things to Do in Damascus: Activities and Tours

From cooking classes to walking tours, there is no shortage of things to do in Damascus. Some of the best activities and tours include:

  • Cooking classes: Learn how to cook traditional Syrian dishes with a local chef.
  • Walking tours: Explore the old city on foot and learn about its rich history and culture.
  • Shopping tours: Discover the best local markets and souks with a personal guide.
  • Hot Air Balloon Ride: Experience the ultimate adventure with a hot air balloon ride over the city and surrounding countryside.

Week-Long Itinerary for Damascus

Here is an example week-long itinerary for exploring Damascus and its surrounds:

Day Activities
1 Explore the old city on foot, visit the Umayyad Mosque, and enjoy a traditional Syrian dinner at a local restaurant.
2 Visit the National Museum of Damascus, Azem Palace, and explore the markets in the afternoon.
3 Take a hot air balloon ride over the city, then visit the nearby town of Maaloula.
4 Hike up Mount Qasioun for panoramic views, then relax at a hammam in the evening.
5 Take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Syrian dishes.
6 Visit the Yabroud Oasis for a day of hiking, waterfalls, and hot springs.
7 Take a day trip to the nearby town of Bosra and explore the ancient Roman ruins before departing.

Food and Drink Scene of Damascus

Syrian cuisine is a delicious mix of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors, with a focus on fresh ingredients and bold spices. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kibbeh: A popular dish made with minced meat, bulgur wheat, and spices, shaped into balls or patties.
  • Moutabal: A dip made from roasted eggplant, tahini, and garlic, served with pita bread.
  • Fatayer: Small pastries filled with spinach, cheese, or meat.
  • Shawarma: A Middle Eastern wrap filled with grilled meat, vegetables, and sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Arak: A strong anise-flavored liquor typically served with meze.
  • Syrian Tea: A sweet tea made with black tea leaves, sugar, and fresh mint.

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

Damascus has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best:

  • Beit al-Wali: A beautiful guesthouse located in the heart of the old city, offering traditional Syrian architecture, courtyards, and Arabic-speaking hosts.
  • Beit Al Mamlouka: A luxurious boutique hotel housed in a restored 17th-century palace, offering stunning views over the old city.
  • Al-Pasha Hotel: A comfortable and affordable hotel located in the center of the old city, offering traditional Syrian hospitality.
  • Casa d’Or: A modern and stylish hotel located outside of the old city but offering easy access to Damascus’ many attractions.

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

Damascus is famous for its traditional crafts, textiles, and sweets. Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home:

  • Damascus Steel: A famous type of steel used for making knives, swords, and other weapons, known for its durability and sharpness.
  • Mabkhara: A traditional incense burner used in Middle Eastern homes.
  • Spices: Stock up on a variety of spices used in traditional Syrian cooking, such as cumin, coriander, and cinnamon.
  • Sweets: Try the famous Syrian sweets, such as baklava, halva, or maamoul, made with dates, nuts, or sweet cheese.

Local Culture and Customs of Damascus

Syria is an Islamic country, and visitors should respect local customs and dress modestly. Alcohol is widely available in bars and hotels, but it is not typically consumed in public.

Best Time to Visit Damascus

The best time to visit Damascus is in the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the temperatures are mild, and the weather is pleasant for outdoor exploring.

Do’s and Don’ts of Damascus

Do:

  • Dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions.
  • Bargain at the markets and souks for better prices.
  • Try local dishes and beverages.
  • Explore the city on foot and take a guided tour to learn about its rich history and culture.

Don’t:

  • Drink alcohol in public or during Ramadan.
  • Photograph military personnel or government buildings.
  • Talk about politics or religion with strangers.
  • Smoke in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Damascus

While Syria has been affected by ongoing conflict, Damascus is considered relatively safe for tourists. However, it is still advisable to check your government’s travel advisories before visiting and to take necessary precautions, such as avoiding demonstrations or political gatherings.

Health in Damascus

Visitors should take necessary precautions to stay healthy in Damascus, such as drinking bottled water, washing hands frequently, and wearing insect repellent to avoid mosquito-borne diseases. Travelers should also ensure that they have adequate travel insurance before arriving in Syria.

Getting to Damascus: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Damascus

The closest airport to Damascus is Damascus International Airport, located about 30 minutes from the city center.

Bus Stations Near Damascus

The city is well connected by bus, with several long-distance bus stations located throughout Damascus.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Damascus by taxi or hire a private driver. It is also possible to arrive in Damascus by train, with connections to other cities in Syria and nearby countries.

How to Get Around in Damascus

While the city is easily explored on foot, visitors can also use taxis or public transportation such as buses and the metro system. It is also possible to hire a car with a driver for more extended trips outside of the city.

Where to Go Next from Damascus: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

From Damascus, visitors can explore other parts of Syria or take day trips to nearby destinations such as:

  • Bosra: A historic town located about 2 hours south of Damascus, known for its ancient Roman ruins and beautiful mosque.
  • Palmyra: An ancient city located about 3 hours northeast of Damascus, known for its well-preserved ruins and stunning desert landscapes.
  • Krak des Chevaliers: A medieval castle located about 2 hours northwest of Damascus, considered one of the most impressive castles in the world.

Conclusion

Damascus is a beautiful and historic city worth exploring, with a diverse mix of cultures, cuisines, and traditions. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or just a relaxing getaway, Damascus has something to offer everyone. With its fascinating history, beautiful architecture, and stunning natural landscapes, Damascus is an ideal destination for travelers looking to explore the Middle East.

The Eastern Gate at the end of the Via Recta The Eastern Gate at the end of the Via Recta Taxi on a street in Damascus Taxi on a street in Damascus The Souq al-Hamidiyya The Souq al-Hamidiyya The Temple of Jupiter The Temple of Jupiter Merjeh Square Merjeh Square The rope ladder to the Damascus Hostel The rope ladder to the Damascus Hostel