Dead Cities Travel Guide
Explore the ancient ruins of Dead Cities in Syria, discover its cultural and natural attractions, and learn about its local customs, food and drink, and transportation options.
- Dead Cities - A Comprehensive Travel Guide
- List of Places to Visit in Dead Cities
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Dead Cities
- Best Things to Do in Dead Cities: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Dead Cities
- Food and Drink Scene of Dead Cities
- Where to Stay in Dead Cities
- What to Buy in Dead Cities: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Dead Cities
- Best Time to Visit Dead Cities
- Do’s and Don’ts of Dead Cities
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Dead Cities: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Dead Cities
- Where to Go Next from Dead Cities: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Dead Cities - A Comprehensive Travel Guide
Dead Cities, located in Northwestern Syria, is an ancient archaeological site that dates back to the Byzantine era. The site comprises 700 abandoned settlements and is a testament to the area’s rich history and culture. The Dead Cities site is truly one of the wonders of the world and must be on every traveler’s bucket list. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will explore the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and how to get around Dead Cities.
List of Places to Visit in Dead Cities
Dead Cities is a vast area with numerous sites to explore. Here are some must-visit places in Dead Cities:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Cyrrhus: An ancient city that dates back to the Hellenistic period
- Apamea: A vast ancient city that was once conquered by Alexander the Great
- Maarat al-Numan: A city that dates back to the Byzantine era and was once an important commercial center
- Serjilla: A former Roman city that was later inhabited by the Byzantines
Natural Attractions of Dead Cities: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Aleppo Citadel: A massive fortress that offers stunning views of the city
- Mount Simeon: A mountain that offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding area
- Lake Assad: A massive lake that offers numerous opportunities for boating and other outdoor activities
Hiking/Biking Routes of Dead Cities
Dead Cities is a popular destination for hikers and bikers. There are plenty of scenic routes that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Some popular routes include:
- The Apamea Trail: A 15-kilometer trail that offers stunning views of the ancient city of Apamea
- The Aleppo Trail: A 20-kilometer trail that takes you through the Aleppo countryside
- The Serjilla Trail: A 10-kilometer trail that offers stunning views of the Serjilla ruins.
Best Things to Do in Dead Cities: Activities and Tours
There are plenty of things to do in Dead Cities, from exploring the ancient ruins to enjoying the local cuisine. Here are some of the best things to do:
- Visit the archaeological sites of Apamea and Cyrrhus
- Take a hot-air balloon ride over Mount Simeon for an unforgettable experience
- Go hiking or biking on one of the trails mentioned above
- Take a tour of the Dead Cities site to learn more about its history and culture.
Week-Long Itinerary for Dead Cities
Here is a sample week-long itinerary for exploring Dead Cities:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Explore the ancient ruins of Cyrrhus |
| Day 2 | Visit the city of Maarat al-Numan and its museum |
| Day 3 | Take a hot-air balloon ride over Mount Simeon |
| Day 4 | Hike the Apamea Trail |
| Day 5 | Visit the museum in Serjilla |
| Day 6 | Take a guided tour of the Dead Cities site |
| Day 7 | Explore the Aleppo Citadel and its museum |
Food and Drink Scene of Dead Cities
Dead Cities is known for its delicious cuisine, which combines traditional Middle Eastern and Syrian flavors. Here are some must-try dishes:
Must-Try Dishes
- Mujadara: A dish made of lentils, rice, and onions
- Kebab: Grilled meat on skewers
- Fatayer: A pastry filled with spinach or meat
Local Beverages
- Arabic coffee: A strong black coffee flavored with cardamom
- Arak: An anise-flavored alcoholic beverage
Where to Stay in Dead Cities
There are several options for accommodation in Dead Cities, ranging from hotels to guesthouses. Here are some popular options:
- Dar Talama: A guesthouse located in Maarat al-Numan
- Emir Palace Hotel: A luxurious hotel in the city of Aleppo
- Serjilla Guest House: A guesthouse in the ancient city of Serjilla
What to Buy in Dead Cities: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Dead Cities is known for its handmade crafts and souvenirs. Here are some popular items to bring home:
- Handmade ceramics
- Handmade silk scarves
- Spices and herbs
Local Culture and Customs of Dead Cities
Dead Cities is a conservative area, and visitors are advised to dress modestly and respect local customs. It is also important to note that alcohol is not widely available and should not be consumed in public.
Best Time to Visit Dead Cities
The best time to visit Dead Cities is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summer can be very hot, while winter can be cold and rainy.
Do’s and Don’ts of Dead Cities
Do:
- Dress modestly to respect local customs.
- Learn some basic Arabic phrases to communicate with the locals.
- Take a guided tour of the Dead Cities site to learn more about its history and culture.
Don’t:
- Drink alcohol in public.
- Take photographs of people without their permission.
- Show disrespect towards local customs and traditions.
Safety and Health
Safety in Dead Cities
Syria is currently experiencing political instability, and visitors are advised to check travel advisories before planning a trip. It is also important to be aware of your surroundings and take appropriate safety precautions.
Health in Dead Cities
Visitors are advised to take necessary health precautions before traveling to Dead Cities. It is recommended to get vaccinated and bring a basic first aid kit. It is also important to stay hydrated and avoid tap water.
Getting to Dead Cities: Transportation Options and Logistics
Dead Cities is located in Northwestern Syria and is accessible by air, road, and rail. Some popular transportation options include:
Airports Near Dead Cities
- Aleppo International Airport
- Damascus International Airport
Bus Stations Near Dead Cities
- Aleppo Bus Station
- Maarat al-Numan Bus Station
Other Options
- Train: There are several train stations in the surrounding area that offer transportation to other parts of Syria.
- Taxi: Taxis are widely available and can transport visitors around Dead Cities and beyond.
How to Get Around in Dead Cities
Visitors can get around Dead Cities by using public transportation, pre-booked tours, or hiring a private car or taxi.
Where to Go Next from Dead Cities: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
There are several nearby destinations and excursions that visitors can take from Dead Cities. Here are some popular options:
- Aleppo: A historic city located near Dead Cities
- Palmyra: A UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Eastern Syria
- Hama: A city famous for its ancient waterwheels
Conclusion
Dead Cities is a fascinating destination that offers a glimpse into Syria’s rich history and culture. From exploring its ancient ruins to enjoying its delicious cuisine, Dead Cities is a must-visit destination for any traveler. With the help of this comprehensive travel guide, visitors can plan their trip to Dead Cities with ease and confidence.
