Damascus Syria 6 Day Itinerary

Damascus, Syria: 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrival & Orientation

  • Arrive at Damascus International Airport (DAM)
  • Check-in at a centrally located hotel such as Hotel Bab Touma or Crowne Plaza Damascus City Centre
  • Freshen up and rest from the journey
  • Visit the Umayyad Square and admire the stunning Umayyad Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world
  • Evening meal at Zaher el Wazeir, a famous restaurant known for Syrian cuisine
  • Be aware of local customs and dress modestly as a sign of respect

Day 2 - Old City Exploration

  • Breakfast at your hotel or try Al Mandaloun for traditional Syrian dishes
  • Visit the Old City, including:
    • The Souks (markets) in the heart of the Old City with a wide variety of goods and food
    • St. Paul’s Church where St. Paul is said to have been converted to Christianity
    • The Citadel, a large archaeological hill with ruins from various periods dating back to the Bronze Age
  • Lunch at Al-Madrasa in the Old City for authentic Syrian cuisine
  • In the afternoon, explore the Barada River and its surroundings, such as the Azem Palace and Tishreen Park
  • Dinner at Al Khasab, a popular eatery known for traditional Damascene dishes

Day 3 - Museums & Modern Damascus

  • Breakfast at your hotel or explore local cafes in the neighborhood
  • Visit the National Museum of Damascus to learn about Syria’s rich history and culture
  • Lunch at Al Sufara, a restaurant serving delicious Syrian dishes made with organic ingredients
  • In the afternoon, explore the modern areas of Damascus such as Mezzeh, Tishreen Heights, or the University Quarter
  • Visit the Scientific Research & Cultural Center (SRC) and the National Library for a glimpse into Syria’s intellectual heritage
  • Dinner at Al Fakhoura, a restaurant specializing in Kebab Hareeseh, a traditional Syrian dish

Day 4 - Day Trip to Krak des Chevaliers

  • Early breakfast at your hotel or grab something on the go
  • Head out for a day trip to the legendary Crusader castle of Krak des Chevaliers (approximately 2 hours drive from Damascus)
  • Lunch in a local restaurant near Krak des Chevaliers
  • Return to Damascus and spend the evening exploring the vibrant nightlife, such as Al Midan or Hanano Square
  • Dinner at Al Fardous, a rooftop restaurant offering stunning views of the city

Day 5 - Day Trip to Palmyra & Maaloula

  • Early breakfast and depart for a day trip to the ancient cities of Palmyra and Maaloula (approximately 3 hours drive from Damascus)
  • Visit the ruins of Palmyra, an oasis city in the eastern Syrian desert that flourished as a vital cultural center during the Roman Empire
  • Lunch at a local restaurant near Palmyra
  • Continue to Maaloula, one of the oldest Christian villages and home to some of the last Aramaic speakers
  • Dinner at a local restaurant in Maaloula before returning to Damascus

Day 6 - Farewell & Departure

  • Breakfast at your hotel or grab something on the go for an early departure
  • Last-minute shopping or sightseeing around Damascus, as desired
  • Check out of your hotel and head to Damascus International Airport (DAM) for your flight home or onward journey

Tips & Other Important Information:

  • Always carry a valid passport with a Syrian visa, as well as travel insurance
  • Maintain awareness of local security conditions and follow the advice of embassy officials or hotel staff
  • Learn some basic Arabic phrases to communicate effectively and show respect for the local culture
  • Haggle prices in the souks but be fair and reasonable
  • Enjoy traditional Syrian tea (Shai) throughout your visit, as it is an essential part of the Damascene experience!