Syria stands as a land of ancient civilizations, offering a unique blend of historical wonders, cultural depth, and breathtaking landscapes that continue to intrigue curious travelers. From the awe-inspiring ruins of Palmyra to the bustling souks of Damascus, every corner reveals a story etched in time. Despite its challenges, Syria’s heritage, rich cuisine, and resilient spirit make it an unforgettable destination for those seeking authentic experiences. This year presents an opportunity to witness the country’s remarkable treasures and connect with its enduring legacy. This guide highlights the best things to do in Syria, ensuring an insightful journey through history, culture, and beauty.
Explore the Ancient City of Palmyra
Centuries of history come alive when exploring the ancient city of Palmyra, once a vital trade hub along the Silk Road. Situated in the heart of the Syrian desert, this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts remarkable ruins that narrate tales of grandeur from the Roman Empire. Towering colonnades, intricate temple facades, and monumental arches still stand resilient despite damage over recent years. Palmyra’s Temple of Bel, once a magnificent centerpiece, showcases intricate Greco-Roman and Persian influences. Walking through the ancient streets allows visitors to visualize the bustling marketplace that once thrived here. The nearby Valley of Tombs offers fascinating insights into funerary practices with towering structures known as tower tombs. Palmyra’s strategic location and rich cultural history make it a compelling destination for history enthusiasts and archeology lovers alike. Exploring this site provides a deep connection to Syria’s glorious past and reveals the region’s critical role in ancient global trade networks.
Visit the Citadel of Aleppo
Centuries-old fortifications greet visitors at the Citadel of Aleppo, one of the oldest and largest castles in the world. Overlooking the ancient city, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has withstood countless invasions and natural disasters, showcasing the resilience of Syrian history. The Citadel’s impressive entrance bridge, massive stone walls, and intricate carvings narrate centuries of Islamic, Byzantine, and Crusader influences. Inside, remnants of royal halls, mosques, baths, and dungeons provide a glimpse into medieval life. The panoramic view from the ramparts offers breathtaking perspectives of Aleppo’s urban sprawl and the surrounding hills. Restoration efforts continue to preserve the Citadel’s unique architectural heritage, despite damages suffered during recent conflicts. Strolling through its complex layers of history allows travelers to witness Syria’s rich cultural tapestry and military ingenuity. Visiting the Citadel of Aleppo is essential for anyone seeking to understand the significance of Syria’s ancient fortifications and architectural mastery.
Stroll Through the Old City of Damascus
Narrow alleys paved with cobblestones lead visitors deep into the Old City of Damascus, the world’s oldest continuously inhabited city. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this labyrinth of history boasts stunning architecture, vibrant souks, and religious landmarks. Walking through its bustling markets, visitors encounter traditional craftsmen, aromatic spice shops, and colorful fabrics that reflect Damascus’s cultural vibrancy. Hidden courtyards with fountains and ornate residences showcase intricate Islamic designs and Ottoman-era influences. The Straight Street, or Via Recta, mentioned in the Bible, still runs through the city, adding spiritual significance. Along the way, historic mosques, churches, and khans transport visitors through centuries of diverse civilizations. Damascus’s Old City is not just a place but an experience—a living museum where every stone holds a story. Exploring its rich heritage offers insight into Syria’s layered history and the resilience of a city that continues to thrive amid changing times.
Experience the Umayyad Mosque
Intricate Islamic artistry and rich history unfold inside the Umayyad Mosque, one of the world’s oldest and most revered mosques. Located in the heart of Damascus, this architectural masterpiece stands on the site of a Roman temple and later a Christian church, symbolizing Syria’s diverse religious heritage. The mosque’s vast courtyard, grand minarets, and stunning mosaics captivate visitors with their intricate details and spiritual ambiance. Inside, the shrine believed to house the head of John the Baptist draws pilgrims from around the world. The marble columns and golden embellishments reflect the grandeur of the Umayyad dynasty, making it a significant landmark in Islamic architecture. Visiting the mosque offers not only a glimpse into Syria’s religious history but also an appreciation for its artistic legacy. Revered by Muslims and admired by historians, the Umayyad Mosque remains a beacon of cultural and spiritual importance in the Middle East.
Tour the Krak des Chevaliers
Stone walls rise majestically at the Krak des Chevaliers, a Crusader-era fortress regarded as one of the best-preserved medieval castles in the world. Nestled atop a hill in Homs province, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Built by the Knights Hospitaller during the 12th century, the fortress showcases impressive defensive architecture, including massive outer walls, drawbridges, and a moat. Inside, visitors can explore grand halls, chapels, and intricate passageways that reveal the castle’s strategic significance during the Crusades. Its layered construction reflects additions made by various rulers over centuries, blending Gothic, Romanesque, and Islamic influences. Despite enduring conflict and natural disasters, the Krak des Chevaliers remains a symbol of medieval military ingenuity. Exploring this iconic landmark provides a fascinating journey into Syria’s complex history and the architectural brilliance that once safeguarded the region against invading armies.
Attend the Newroz Festival
Springtime in Syria bursts with color and celebration during the Newroz Festival, marking the Kurdish New Year and the arrival of spring. Rooted in ancient traditions, Newroz holds deep cultural and historical significance, especially among Syria’s Kurdish communities. Families gather in villages and cities, wearing traditional attire adorned with bright patterns symbolizing prosperity and renewal. Bonfires are lit as a symbol of overcoming darkness, while dances and music fill the air with joyous rhythms. The festival fosters unity, drawing people together to share food, folklore, and songs passed down through generations. Celebrations often extend into nature, with families enjoying picnics and storytelling under blooming trees. Newroz not only highlights Syria’s rich ethnic diversity but also strengthens cultural identity and resilience. Experiencing this vibrant festival offers visitors an authentic glimpse into Kurdish heritage, while also providing an uplifting and colorful atmosphere that reflects Syria’s enduring spirit and love for tradition.
Visit the National Museum of Damascus
Priceless treasures of Syria’s rich cultural heritage are preserved within the National Museum of Damascus, offering visitors a remarkable journey through time. Founded in 1919, the museum houses artifacts spanning prehistoric times to the Islamic era, showcasing Syria’s role as a cradle of civilization. The impressive collection includes ancient sculptures, mosaics, coins, and relics from Palmyra, Ugarit, and Mari. One of the standout exhibits is the reconstructed facade of the Umayyad palace of Qasr al-Heer al-Gharbi, meticulously restored within the museum grounds. Ancient manuscripts, intricate pottery, and archaeological finds reveal the country’s diverse cultural influences. Each gallery transports visitors through millennia of Syrian history, offering insights into the art, religion, and daily life of its people. A visit to the museum provides context to Syria’s archaeological sites and underlines the nation’s enduring significance in human civilization. It stands as a testament to Syria’s rich historical narrative and artistic legacy.
Relax at Bakdash Ice Cream Parlor
No visit to Damascus is complete without savoring a sweet treat from Bakdash Ice Cream Parlor, an iconic institution located in the bustling Al-Hamidiyah Souq. Established in 1895, Bakdash has become famous for its traditional Syrian booza, a stretchy, chewy ice cream made with mastic and sahlab. Watching the skilled staff rhythmically pound and stretch the ice cream is a spectacle that attracts both locals and tourists alike. Flavored with rich pistachios and natural ingredients, the ice cream offers a unique taste and texture that sets it apart from Western varieties. The ambiance, with its traditional décor and constant buzz of customers, reflects the soul of Damascus’s vibrant street life. Generations of Syrians have fond memories of family visits to Bakdash, making it a nostalgic experience steeped in tradition. Enjoying a scoop here not only satisfies the palate but also offers a delightful glimpse into Syria’s culinary heritage.
Explore the Dead City of Serjilla
Ancient ruins whisper stories of forgotten civilizations at the Dead City of Serjilla, one of Syria’s most remarkable Byzantine ghost towns. Nestled in the limestone massif of the northwest, Serjilla forms part of the UNESCO-listed “Dead Cities” that once thrived between the 1st and 7th centuries. Well-preserved stone houses, bathhouses, churches, and olive presses reveal the prosperity these settlements once enjoyed. Walking through the deserted alleys, visitors can almost hear the echoes of daily life that flourished here centuries ago. The arched doorways, intricate stone carvings, and organized city layout demonstrate advanced urban planning and architectural skills. Serjilla offers valuable insights into early Christian communities and their way of life, making it a fascinating destination for history and archaeology enthusiasts. Exploring this site transports visitors back in time, offering a profound appreciation for Syria’s rich historical layers and the resilience of its ancient civilizations.
Discover the Church of Saint Simeon the Stylite
Architectural marvels meet ancient spirituality at the Church of Saint Simeon the Stylite, a monumental basilica complex located near Aleppo. Dating back to the 5th century, this UNESCO-listed site honors Saint Simeon, famed for spending decades atop a pillar in search of divine enlightenment. The church was constructed around his pillar, remnants of which still stand as a testament to his ascetic devotion. Massive stone arches, intricate carvings, and the cruciform layout reflect early Byzantine architecture at its finest. Surrounding the central courtyard, visitors can explore chapels and baptisteries that reveal insights into early Christian monastic life. Panoramic views from the site overlook the Syrian countryside, enhancing the spiritual aura of this ancient pilgrimage destination. Saint Simeon’s legacy continues to inspire visitors, making the site a must-visit for history lovers and spiritual seekers interested in Syria’s Christian heritage and its enduring impact on religious traditions.
Tour the Musyaf Castle
Fortified walls and looming towers define the Musyaf Castle, perched dramatically on a hilltop in western Syria. Known as a stronghold of the medieval Assassins, or Nizari Ismailis, this fortress exudes mystery and history. Constructed in the 12th century, the castle served as a strategic defense point and a base for the Assassins during the Crusades. Visitors exploring its labyrinthine passageways, lookout points, and ancient chambers get a vivid sense of the secretive world that once thrived within these stone walls. Views from the ramparts stretch across the Orontes Valley, emphasizing its tactical importance. Layers of renovations by various dynasties, including the Mamluks and Ottomans, reveal its continuous use over centuries. Musyaf Castle stands today as a symbol of resilience and historical intrigue, attracting history buffs and adventure seekers fascinated by tales of espionage, strategy, and the complex legacy of Syria’s medieval past.
Visit the As-Suwayda National Museum
Rich archaeological treasures await at the As-Suwayda National Museum, located in the heart of southern Syria’s Druze-majority region. Housed in an ancient building constructed with distinctive black basalt stone, the museum boasts an impressive collection of artifacts spanning millennia. Visitors can admire stunning Roman mosaics depicting mythological scenes, intricately carved basalt statues, funerary steles, and relics from the Nabataean and Byzantine periods. Exhibits vividly portray As-Suwayda’s historical significance as part of the ancient Hauran region, once a vital Roman province. The museum’s layout allows for an immersive experience, offering insights into daily life, religious practices, and artistic expressions of past civilizations. Outside, remnants of ancient columns and ruins enhance the historical atmosphere. A visit to the As-Suwayda National Museum provides a deeper understanding of Syria’s diverse cultural heritage and archaeological wealth, making it an essential stop for history enthusiasts exploring the lesser-known regions of the country.
Explore the Souk al-Saqatiya in Aleppo
Vibrant energy fills the air at Souk al-Saqatiya, one of Aleppo’s oldest and most charming covered markets. Nestled within the city’s sprawling medieval souk complex, this narrow alleyway once specialized in selling dried fruits and nuts, filling the air with tantalizing aromas. Centuries-old stone arches and vaulted ceilings add architectural beauty to the bustling marketplace. Traders display colorful assortments of pistachios, almonds, dates, figs, and traditional Aleppine sweets, creating a feast for the senses. Each vendor shares stories of recipes and trade practices passed down through generations, showcasing Syria’s rich culinary heritage. Despite suffering damage during recent conflicts, the souk’s spirit of resilience remains evident. Wandering through its lively pathways offers an authentic glimpse into Aleppo’s trading legacy and the integral role of souks in Syrian daily life. A visit to Souk al-Saqatiya is both a cultural journey and a flavorful experience not to be missed.
Visit the Monastery of Our Lady of Sednayah
Perched on a mountain ridge overlooking the plains of Damascus, the Monastery of Our Lady of Sednayah is one of Syria’s most significant Christian pilgrimage sites. Founded in the 6th century by Byzantine Emperor Justinian, the monastery is revered for its miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary, believed to possess healing powers. The structure, built from thick stone walls, houses centuries-old chapels, religious relics, and ornate frescoes reflecting Eastern Orthodox traditions. Pilgrims and visitors alike ascend its narrow stone stairways, soaking in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The monastery’s peaceful atmosphere invites reflection and spiritual contemplation, making it a haven for believers and history enthusiasts. Festivals and feast days draw large crowds, highlighting its continuing role in Syrian religious life. Exploring Sednayah offers insight into Syria’s rich Christian heritage and its enduring cultural significance in a country renowned for religious diversity and coexistence.
Explore the Giant Norias of Hama
Rhythmic sounds of water turning colossal wooden wheels define the picturesque scene of the Giant Norias of Hama. These ancient waterwheels, some dating back to the Byzantine era, once served as ingenious irrigation systems along the Orontes River. Standing up to 20 meters tall, the norias were constructed entirely from wood, designed to lift water from the river into aqueducts that irrigated the surrounding fields and gardens. Their unique engineering and mesmerizing rotation continue to captivate visitors, symbolizing Hama’s identity and resilience. The norias are best viewed from nearby cafés lining the riverbanks, offering peaceful spots to relax while appreciating this marvel of medieval technology. Though no longer essential for irrigation, the norias remain a cherished heritage site, celebrated in local folklore and festivals. A visit to Hama’s Norias provides a glimpse into Syria’s agricultural ingenuity and the enduring beauty of a city shaped by its relationship with water.