Aleppo Syria 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Old City

Morning

  • Arrive at Aleppo International Airport
  • Take a taxi ( approx. 15-20 minutes, 500-700 SYP) or bus (approx. 30-40 minutes, 50-100 SYP) to the city center
  • Check-in at Hotel Carliton (mid-range, central location) or Beit Wakil (luxury, historic mansion)

Afternoon

  • Visit the Aleppo Citadel (entry fee: 150 SYP), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world
  • Explore the narrow streets of the Old City, taking in the sights and sounds of this ancient metropolis
  • Stop by Al-Jdayde neighborhood, known for its historic architecture and lively atmosphere

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional Syrian cuisine at Sah al-Nawm Restaurant, try their famous kebabs and mezze
  • Take a stroll along Saadallah Al-Jabiri Square, surrounded by cafes and shops

Things to Know

  • Aleppo is a conservative city, dress modestly and respect local customs
  • Be prepared for crowds and chaos in the Old City
  • Learn some basic Arabic phrases to interact with locals

Day 2: History and Culture

Morning

  • Visit the National Museum of Aleppo (entry fee: 50 SYP), home to a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits on Syrian history and culture
  • Stop by the Great Mosque of Aleppo, one of the oldest and most important mosques in Syria

Afternoon

  • Explore the Souk al-Madina, a historic marketplace filled with spices, sweets, and souvenirs
  • Visit the Bimaristan Arguni Hospital, a 15th-century hospital turned museum showcasing Ottoman-era architecture

Evening

  • Enjoy a traditional Syrian coffee at CafĂ© Takia, a cozy spot in the heart of the Old City
  • Attend a performance or concert at Aleppo Opera House (schedule varies)

Tips

  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions
  • Haggle when shopping at souks, it’s part of the experience!

Day 3: Nature and Adventure

Morning

  • Take a day trip to Qastal Ma’af, a scenic village in the mountains surrounding Aleppo (approx. 1 hour drive)
  • Enjoy hiking and breathtaking views of the Syrian countryside

Afternoon

  • Visit Jabrin Park, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city
  • Stop by Aleppo’s Grand Serail, a historic government building turned museum

Evening

  • Try some street food at Shawarma Abu Abdo, a popular spot for delicious and affordable eats
  • Take a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride through the Old City (approx. 500 SYP per hour)

Transportation

  • Taxis are widely available, but agree on the fare beforehand
  • Walking is a great way to explore the Old City, but be prepared for uneven pavement and crowds

Day 4: Relaxation and Leisure

Morning

  • Treat yourself to a rejuvenating Hamman (Turkish bath) experience at Aleppo’s oldest Hamman, a historic landmark
  • Visit the Aleppo Zoo, home to a variety of animals and a peaceful atmosphere

Afternoon

  • Take a leisurely stroll along the Quweiq River, which runs through the heart of the city
  • Relax at Kasr Al-Wali cafe, offering stunning views of the citadel

Evening

  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at Myasmine Restaurant, serving modern Syrian cuisine with a twist
  • Take in the vibrant atmosphere at Souk al-Tal, a bustling marketplace filled with street food and live music

Other Things to Know

  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting mosques or historic sites
  • Be prepared for variable weather conditions, Aleppo can be hot during summer months

Day 5: Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring a local market
  • Check-out of your hotel and head to the airport (approx. 15-20 minutes drive)

Transportation

  • Book your departure taxi or bus in advance to ensure availability
  • Leave plenty of time to reach the airport before your flight

This itinerary provides a mix of history, culture, nature, and relaxation, giving you a well-rounded experience of Aleppo’s charm. However, be sure to stay informed about local conditions and events that may affect your travel plans.