Aleppo Syria 7 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Old Aleppo

  • Arrival: Arrive at Aleppo International Airport (ALP) and take a taxi to your hotel in the city center (~ $10)
  • Hotel: Stay at the Hotel Aleppo Palace or similar, a comfortable and centrally located option
  • Morning: Explore the ancient streets of Old Aleppo, starting from the iconic Bab Antakya Gate
    • Visit the Aleppo Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning views of the city
    • Wander through the Souk al-Madina, a vibrant marketplace filled with local goods and souvenirs
  • Lunch: Try traditional Syrian cuisine at Abu Sajo Restaurant, including dishes like kebabs, falafel, and shawarma
  • Afternoon: Visit the National Museum of Aleppo to learn about the city’s rich history and culture
  • Evening: Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the Queiq River and take in the city’s evening atmosphere

Day 2: History and Culture

  • Morning: Visit the Church of St. Simeon, a beautiful ancient church with stunning architecture
    • Explore the Al-Jdeida neighborhood, known for its historic buildings, mosques, and churches
  • Lunch: Head to Kaser Al-Kabir Restaurant for delicious Syrian dishes in a cozy atmosphere
  • Afternoon: Visit the Aleppo Museum of Folklore, showcasing traditional crafts, music, and dance
    • Stop by the Great Mosque of Aleppo, one of the oldest and largest mosques in the city
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Arabic coffee or tea at a local café

Day 3: Day Trip to St. Simeon

  • Morning: Take a day trip to the ancient village of St. Simeon, located about an hour north of Aleppo (~ $20 by taxi)
    • Explore the stunning St. Simeon Church, built in the 5th century
    • Enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding countryside and take a leisurely walk around the village
  • Lunch: Try some local specialties at one of the village’s simple but delicious restaurants
  • Afternoon: Return to Aleppo and spend some time relaxing at your hotel or exploring the city on your own

Day 4: Markets and Cuisine

  • Morning: Visit the bustling Souk al-Atiq, a historic marketplace filled with fresh produce, spices, and local goods
    • Explore the Aleppo Souk, a labyrinthine market with everything from souvenirs to clothing
  • Lunch: Try some street food at one of the many vendors in the souks or head to Shawarma Abu Abdo for delicious sandwiches
  • Afternoon: Take a cooking class and learn how to prepare traditional Syrian dishes like kibbeh, dolma, and more (~ $30)
    • Visit the Aleppo Spice Market, filled with aromas of cinnamon, cardamom, and other spices

Day 5: Relaxation and Leisure

  • Morning: Take a leisurely stroll along the Queiq River and enjoy the city’s peaceful atmosphere
    • Visit the Aleppo Public Park, a green oasis in the heart of the city
  • Lunch: Head to Café Vienna, a cozy spot with international cuisine and a relaxed vibe
  • Afternoon: Treat yourself to a traditional Syrian hammam (bathhouse) experience at Hammam Al-Nahassin (~ $20)
    • Take some time to relax at your hotel or explore the city on your own

Day 6: Ancient Ruins

  • Morning: Visit the ancient ruins of Qalat Samaan, located about an hour north of Aleppo (~ $20 by taxi)
    • Explore the stunning Church of St. Simeon Stylites, built in the 5th century
    • Take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside
  • Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the ancient ruins or head back to Aleppo for some local cuisine
  • Afternoon: Return to Aleppo and spend some time relaxing at your hotel or exploring the city on your own

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Spend some last-minute time shopping for souvenirs or exploring a new neighborhood
  • Departure: Take a taxi back to Aleppo International Airport (~ $10) for your departure flight

Things to Know

  • Syria is a conservative country; dress modestly and respect local customs
  • Learn some basic Arabic phrases like “hello” (مرحبا - Marhaba), “thank you” (شكرا - Shukraan), and “goodbye” (مع السلامة - Ma’a al-salaama)
  • Be prepared for crowds and chaos in the souks and markets
  • Haggling is a normal part of shopping in Syria; be respectful but firm when negotiating prices
  • Try to avoid traveling during peak summer months (June-August) due to extreme heat

Transportation

  • Taxis are widely available and affordable (~ $5-10 per ride)
  • Private car services can also be arranged through your hotel or a local tour operator
  • Walking is a great way to explore the city, but be mindful of crowded streets and uneven sidewalks

Tips

  • Always bargain when shopping in souks and markets
  • Learn to recognize and respect local customs and traditions
  • Try to avoid eating from street vendors; opt for restaurants and cafes instead
  • Be prepared for occasional power outages and internet connectivity issues

Other Things of Interest

  • The ancient city of Ebla, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located about an hour south of Aleppo (~ $20 by taxi)
  • The scenic Latakia Mountains, perfect for hiking and taking in the stunning views (about 2 hours northwest of Aleppo; ~ $30 by taxi)
  • The vibrant Aleppo University, one of the oldest and largest universities in Syria