Damascus Syria 5 Day Itinerary

Damascus 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Old City Exploration

Activities:

  1. Umayyad Mosque: Visit this historic mosque, one of the largest and most important religious sites in Damascus. (Location: Old City)
  2. Suq Al-Hamidiya: Explore the bustling old bazaar where you can find various goods such as textiles, jewelry, and spices. (Location: Old City)
  3. Omayyad Square: Stroll around this iconic square, which is surrounded by historic buildings and monuments. (Location: Near Umayyad Mosque)
  4. Khan As-Sabun: Wander through the former inn housing numerous small shops selling handmade soap products. (Location: Old City)
  5. Al-Azem Palace: Visit this beautiful palace dating back to the 18th century, now housing the National Museum of Damascus. (Location: Old City)
  6. St. Paul’s Church: Explore one of the oldest churches in Damascus, believed to be the burial place of Saint Paul. (Location: Bab Touma)

Day 2: Modern & Historic Landmarks

  • Breakfast & Lunch: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel and lunch at Al-Meshwar Restaurant for traditional Syrian cuisine.

Activities:

  1. National Museum of Damascus: Continue your exploration of Syrian history and culture at this museum, home to artifacts dating back 5,000 years. (Location: Al-Azem Palace)
  2. Barada River: Take a leisurely walk along the Barada River, which has played a significant role in Damascus’s history. (Location: Near National Museum of Damascus)
  3. Victory Arch: Admire this impressive archaeological site and learn about its historical significance. (Location: Al-Muhajireen Square)
  4. Al-Maleh Garden: Relax and enjoy the greenery at this beautiful garden that dates back to the 16th century. (Location: Near Al-Muhajireen Square)
  5. National Library of Syria: Explore one of the largest libraries in the Middle East, housing over 200,000 books. (Location: University of Damascus)

Day 3: Day Trips

  • Breakfast & Lunch: Have breakfast at your hotel and prepare a packed lunch for your day trip.

Activities:

  1. Crac des Chevaliers: Visit the spectacular Crusader castle, often considered one of the best preserved and most impressive examples of Crusader architecture. (Location: 1.5 hours northwest of Damascus)
  2. Qal’at Salah El-Din: Explore this historical castle located on a hilltop overlooking the picturesque village of Salkhad. (Location: 1 hour northeast of Crac des Chevaliers)
  3. Tadmor (Palmyra): Travel to this ancient city, once a thriving oasis and trading center along the Silk Road. Marvel at its unique architecture, including the Temple of Bel and the Arch of Triumph. (Location: 2 hours northeast of Damascus)

Day 4: Modern Damascus & Nightlife

  • Breakfast & Dinner: Have breakfast at your hotel and dine at Al-Qibla Restaurant for a taste of modern Syrian cuisine.

Activities:

  1. National Botanic Garden: Spend the day at this lush garden, which showcases the rich biodiversity of Syria’s flora. (Location: University of Damascus)
  2. Soumaya Museum: Visit the private museum housing a remarkable collection of art and archaeological artifacts from around the world, including works by Monet, Picasso, and Rodin. (Location: Al-Muhajireen Square)
  3. Damascus Old City Night Tour: Experience the enchanting atmosphere of Damascus at night by taking a guided tour through the illuminated Old City. (Location: Old City)
  4. Sham Nightlife District: End your day by exploring the vibrant nightlife in the Sham district, home to numerous bars and restaurants. (Location: Near Al-Muhajireen Square)

Day 5: Departure

  • Breakfast: Enjoy a final traditional Syrian breakfast at Bab Touma before departing.
  • Transportation: Depending on your departure arrangements, make your way to Damascus International Airport for your flight home.