Raqqa Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Raqqa, Syria with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food to eat, and where to stay in Raqqa.


Visit Raqqa, Syria: A Comprehensive Tour Guide

Introduction to Raqqa

Raqqa is a city located in Rojava, Syria, and is famous for its historical and cultural significance. Located in the heart of the Middle East, Raqqa is a popular destination for those who enjoy adventures, history, and culture. This city is considered the “Jewel of Rojava” and has a lot to offer to visitors.

Raqqa is a city that has seen a lot of conflict in the past few years. It was the capital of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) from 2014 to 2017. However, since then, the city has been liberated and is now open for tourists to visit. While there are still some security concerns, tourism to Raqqa is predicted to increase in the coming years.

List of Places to Visit in Raqqa

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Al-Furat Museum: The Al-Furat Museum is located in the center of the city and displays artifacts from Raqqa’s rich history, including various eras of Islamic rule.

  • The Abbasid Palace: The Abbasid Palace was constructed during the 8th century and is considered to be one of the most significant Islamic palaces in the world.

  • The Wall of Raqqa: The Wall of Raqqa is the only remaining structure of its kind in Syria and was built during the 8th century. It was considered an integral part of the city’s defense system.

Natural Attractions of Raqqa: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Euphrates River: The Euphrates River runs through Raqqa and is a fantastic place to enjoy a relaxing boat ride or take a picnic by the banks of the river.

  • Mount Thalathin: Mount Thalathin is a popular hiking spot for both locals and tourists. It offers breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding area.

  • Raqqa Lake: Located about 30 km from the city, this stunning lake offers beautiful scenery and an opportunity to go boating and fishing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Raqqa

  • The Raqqa Trail: A trail that connects some of the city’s most famous tourist attractions, taking you through ancient ruins and beautiful landscapes.

  • The Euphrates Trail: A scenic trail that follows the Euphrates River and offers incredible views of the surrounding countryside.

  • The Thalathin Trail: This trail is designed for experienced hikers and mountain climbers, as it takes you up to the summit of Mount Thalathin.

Best Things to Do in Raqqa: Activities and Tours

  • City Tour: A guided tour that will take you through the heart of the city and highlight some of its most popular tourist destinations.

  • Boat Ride on the Euphrates River: A relaxing way to experience the beauty of the river and enjoy views of the city’s skyline.

  • Hot Air Balloon Ride: For a more exciting experience, take a hot air balloon ride and get a bird’s eye view of the city.

Week-Long Itinerary for Raqqa

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the Al-Furat Museum and the Wall of Raqqa.
Day 2 Take a boat ride on the Euphrates River and visit the Abbasid Palace.
Day 3 Hike to the summit of Mount Thalathin and enjoy the breathtaking view of the city.
Day 4 Visit the Raqqa Lake and learn about its ecological history.
Day 5 Explore the ancient ruins in the outskirts of the city.
Day 6 Take a hot air balloon ride for an aerial view of the city’s landmarks.
Day 7 Enjoy a traditional Syrian meal at a local restaurant and pick up souvenirs for yourself and loved ones.

Food and Drink Scene of Raqqa

Must-Try Dishes

  • Machabeel: A traditional Syrian breakfast that consists of scrambled eggs, cheese, olives, and vegetables.

  • Kibbeh: A well-known Levantine dish made of minced meat and burghul.

  • Fatteh: A mouth-watering mix of chickpeas, yoghurt, tahini, and crispy bread.

Local Beverages

  • Arak: A popular alcoholic drink made of grapes and anise.

  • Tea: Tea is a staple drink in Syria, and you will find it everywhere you go. Syrians drink it throughout the day, and it’s customary to offer guests a cup of tea as a sign of hospitality.

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

  • Raqqa Hotel: This hotel is located in the heart of the city and offers a comfortable stay for tourists.

  • Raqqa Guesthouse: A budget-friendly option for those traveling on a budget.

  • Raqqa Hostel: A favorite among backpackers with its dorm-style accommodation options.

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

  • Handmade Pottery: Raqqa is known for its traditional pottery, and you’ll find plenty of pottery shops around the city.

  • Jewelry: Raqqa’s jewelry is unique and handmade, making for an excellent souvenir to take back home.

  • Handwoven Rugs: A popular handicraft in the city, handwoven rugs make for a lovely addition to any home.

Local Culture and Customs of Raqqa

Raqqa is an Islamic city, and it’s important to be mindful of local customs and traditions. It’s customary to dress modestly and respect local religious beliefs. It’s also important to remove your shoes when entering a local’s home and to be respectful when addressing elders.

Best Time to Visit Raqqa

The best time to visit Raqqa is during the spring and fall when the weather is cooler and comfortable for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Raqqa

Do:

  • Dress modestly and respect local customs.

  • Be respectful of local religious practices.

  • Purchase items from local shops to support the local economy.

Don’t:

  • Don’t wander off the beaten path without a guide.

  • Don’t take pictures of people without their permission.

  • Don’t engage in public displays of affection.

Safety and Health

Safety in Raqqa

Raqqa has been the site of conflict in recent years, and although things have improved, it’s important to be cautious while traveling. Avoid any areas that are known to be unsafe and follow government guidelines and travel warnings.

Health in Raqqa

The healthcare facilities in Raqqa are limited, and it’s important to take precautions to avoid any health concerns while traveling. Drink bottled water and take safety measures to avoid any insect-borne diseases.

Getting to Raqqa: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Raqqa

The nearest airport to Raqqa is the Qamishli International Airport, located about 120 km to the northeast.

Bus Stations Near Raqqa

There are no direct buses to Raqqa, but visitors can take a bus to nearby cities, such as Aleppo, and then transfer to a local bus or taxi.

Other Options

Visitors can also hire a taxi or private car to get to the city. It’s recommended to book transportation in advance to avoid any unexpected delays.

How to Get Around in Raqqa

The best way to get around in Raqqa is by taxi or private car. Visitors can also choose to rent a bicycle or take a public bus.

Where to Go Next from Raqqa: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Damascus: The capital of Syria is a must-visit destination for history lovers and offers a rich cultural experience.

  • Aleppo: Known for its ancient bazaars and historic sites, Aleppo is a city full of architectural marvels and rich history.

Conclusion

Raqqa has an abundance of history and cultural heritage waiting to be explored. From ancient ruins to majestic mountains, this city offers something for everyone. The food, people, and landscape all make it a fantastic destination for travelers looking for a genuine Middle Eastern experience.

The Abbasid-era Baghdad Gate, in front of Awis al-Qarni Mosque The Abbasid-era Baghdad Gate, in front of Awis al-Qarni Mosque Ruins of the Qasr al-Banat castle. The ruins have mostly survived the civil war intact. Ruins of the Qasr al-Banat castle. The ruins have mostly survived the civil war intact. The Euphrates near Raqqa The Euphrates near Raqqa