Damascus Syria 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Historic Damascus

Morning:

  • Arrive at Damascus International Airport (DAM) and check into your hotel. We recommend staying at the Crowne Plaza Damascus City Center or Hotel Mouakhar, both centrally located and offering comfortable accommodations.
  • Fuel up for the day with a traditional Syrian breakfast at Al-Qubba. Try their Manakish (Syrian pizza) and sweet pastries.

Afternoon:

  • Visit the Old City of Damascus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, starting from Bab Touma Gate. Wander through its narrow streets filled with souqs (markets), historic mosques, churches, and madrasas. Don’t miss Umayyad Mosque and the stunning Chapel of St. Ananias.
  • Explore the Souq Al-Hamidiya, one of the oldest and most famous bazaars in Syria, where you can find various goods such as textiles, spices, and traditional handicrafts.

Evening:

  • Dine at Al-Meshwar Al-Shami for a taste of authentic Syrian cuisine. Don’t forget to try the Kibbeh, Hummus, and Baklava.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the Barada River before returning to your hotel for some rest.

Day 2: Discovering Damascus’s Modern Side

Morning:

  • Begin your day with breakfast at your hotel or try a different local spot like Al-Wadi Al-Aswad.
  • Visit the National Museum of Damascus, housing artifacts from Syria’s history dating back to the Stone Age.

Afternoon:

  • Head to the Palmyra Hotel for a traditional Syrian lunch with a panoramic view of the city.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring Al-Azem Palace, now home to the Museum of Art and Archaeology, and the nearby Mazaar neighbourhood.

Evening:

  • Enjoy dinner at Al-Khanandany for a unique dining experience in an old Damascene house. Try their famous roasted chicken.
  • Visit the lively Bab Tuma Square after dark to enjoy the vibrant nightlife and grab a dessert from one of the many sweet shops.

Day 3: Day Trips from Damascus

Morning:

  • After breakfast, embark on a day trip to the ancient city of Palmyra (Tadmur). It’s approximately a 3-hour drive each way. You can hire a tour guide or join a group tour.
  • Explore the ruins of Palmyra, including the Temple of Baal, the Arch of Triumph, and the Valley of the Tombs.

Afternoon:

  • Return to Damascus in the afternoon and have a late lunch at your hotel or at Al-Meshwar Al-Shami.
  • Spend the rest of the day relaxing and soaking up the atmosphere of the city, perhaps visiting any sites you may have missed on your first two days.

Things to Know:

  • Syria’s official language is Arabic, but English is widely spoken in Damascus, especially among younger generations.
  • Always carry small denominations of local currency (Syrian Pounds) for daily expenses like taxis and street food.
  • Taxis are affordable and readily available throughout the city. Alternatively, you can use Uber or Careem.
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and public places. Women should cover their heads with a scarf.
  • Stay informed about current events and any travel advisories before planning your trip.

Tips:

  • Bartering is common in the souqs, so don’t be afraid to negotiate prices.
  • Avoid consuming tap water; bottled water is widely available.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, and be open to new experiences. Syrians are known for their hospitality, so you’re sure to make memories that will last a lifetime!