Syria 4 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Damascus

Morning

  • Arrive in Damascus, the capital city of Syria
  • Visit the Umayyad Mosque, one of the oldest and most important mosques in Islam (dress modestly)
  • Explore the Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with narrow streets, historic buildings, and bustling souks (markets)

Afternoon

  • Visit the National Museum of Damascus, which houses a vast collection of artifacts from Syria’s rich history
  • Walk through the Straight Street (Via Recta), a historic street mentioned in the Bible

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional Syrian cuisine at a local restaurant, such as kebabs and falafel
  • Explore the lively Hamidiyah Souk, a covered market filled with vendors selling everything from spices to souvenirs

Things to Know

  • Syria is a conservative country; dress modestly and respect local customs
  • Learn some basic Arabic phrases, such as “hello” (مرحبا - Marhaba) and “thank you” (شكرا - Shukraan)
  • Be prepared for crowds and chaos in the Old City

Visa Requirements

  • Citizens of most countries need a visa to enter Syria; check with the Syrian embassy or consulate in your home country
  • Visas can be obtained upon arrival at Damascus International Airport, but it’s recommended to apply in advance

Transportation

  • Taxi: widely available and affordable (negotiate the price before you start your journey)
  • Bus: a cheap and efficient way to travel between cities (buy tickets at the bus station)

Day 2: Palmyra

Morning

  • Take an early morning bus or taxi from Damascus to Palmyra ( approx. 3 hours)
  • Visit the Archaeological Site of Palmyra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning ancient ruins
  • Explore the Temple of Bel, one of the best-preserved ancient temples in the world

Afternoon

  • Take a guided tour of the site to learn more about its history and significance
  • Visit the Palmyra Museum to see artifacts found at the site

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, trying some traditional Syrian dishes
  • Relax at your hotel or explore the town

Things to Know

  • Palmyra is a small town with limited amenities; be prepared for basic accommodations and dining options
  • Respect the ancient ruins and do not touch or climb on them

Day 3: Homs and Krak des Chevaliers

Morning

  • Take a bus or taxi from Palmyra to Homs (approx. 2 hours)
  • Visit the Krak des Chevaliers, a stunning Crusader castle perched on a hilltop
  • Explore the Old City of Homs, with its historic mosques, churches, and souks

Afternoon

  • Take a guided tour of the Krak des Chevaliers to learn more about its history and significance
  • Visit the Homs Museum to see artifacts found at the site

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, trying some traditional Syrian dishes
  • Explore the lively souks and markets in Homs

Things to Know

  • Homs is a larger city with more amenities than Palmyra; you’ll find a greater variety of restaurants and shops
  • Be prepared for crowds and chaos in the Old City

Day 4: Aleppo

Morning

  • Take an early morning bus or taxi from Homs to Aleppo (approx. 4 hours)
  • Visit the Citadel of Aleppo, a stunning ancient fortress perched on a hilltop
  • Explore the Old City of Aleppo, with its historic mosques, churches, and souks

Afternoon

  • Take a guided tour of the Citadel to learn more about its history and significance
  • Visit the Aleppo Museum to see artifacts found at the site

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, trying some traditional Syrian dishes
  • Explore the lively souks and markets in Aleppo

Things to Know

  • Aleppo is a large city with many amenities; you’ll find a wide variety of restaurants, shops, and hotels
  • Be prepared for crowds and chaos in the Old City

Other Things to Know

  • Syria is a cash-based economy; have some local currency (Syrian Pound) with you at all times
  • Respect local customs and traditions; dress modestly and remove your shoes when entering mosques or homes
  • Learn some basic Arabic phrases to help you navigate during your trip