Damascus, Syria 7 Day Itinerary

Title: 7-Day Itinerary for Exploring Damascus, Syria

Day 1: Arrival & Orientation

  • Check-in at Hotel Bab Touma (Website), centrally located and within walking distance of many attractions.
  • Lunch at Al-Mulhak al-Shami (Map), a traditional Syrian restaurant offering a variety of dishes.
  • Visit the Old City Souq, one of the oldest continuously operating markets in the world. Explore its winding streets and colorful stalls selling everything from spices to textiles.
  • Dinner at Hanano (Map), a popular restaurant offering delicious Syrian cuisine in a traditional setting.

Day 2: Historic Damascus

  • Breakfast at your hotel or grab a quick bite from a local bakery.
  • Visit the Umayyad Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Syria and a significant Islamic landmark.
  • Explore the Archaeological Museum of Damascus to learn about Syrian history and archaeology.
  • Lunch at Al Qibla, located near the Umayyad Mosque (Map).
  • Visit the Barbara Garden (also known as the Bab Touma Neighborhood), famous for its beautiful churches, colorful houses, and vibrant atmosphere.
  • Dinner at Zaatar W Zeit (Map), a popular chain restaurant offering a variety of Middle Eastern dishes.

Day 3: Modern Damascus & Museums

  • Breakfast at your hotel or grab a quick bite from a local bakery.
  • Visit the National Museum of Damascus to learn about Syrian art, history, and archaeology.
  • Explore the Mezzeh District, known for its modern architecture, upscale shops, and trendy cafes.
  • Lunch at Shawarma Al Hajj Ahmad (Map), a popular spot for shawarma, a traditional Syrian dish.
  • Visit the Palace of Justice, an impressive modern building with stunning views over Damascus.
  • Dinner at Al Fakhoury (Map), a restaurant offering traditional Syrian dishes in a cozy and intimate setting.

Day 4: Day Trip to Maaloula & the Qal’at Salah al-Din

  • Early breakfast at your hotel.
  • Hire a private car or join a tour to visit Maaloula, a Syrian Orthodox Christian village famous for its Aramaic-speaking population and stunning mountain views.
  • Lunch in Maaloula, enjoying traditional Syrian dishes while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
  • Afternoon visit to the Qal’at Salah al-Din (Crac des Chevaliers), one of the best preserved and most impressive Crusader castles in the world.
  • Return to Damascus for dinner at a local restaurant, such as Al Jundi (Map).

Day 5: Day Trip to Palmyra & the Citadel of Saladin

  • Early breakfast at your hotel.
  • Hire a private car or join a tour to visit the ancient city of Palmyra, an UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning ruins and rich history.
  • Lunch in Palmyra, enjoying traditional Syrian dishes while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
  • Afternoon visit to the Citadel of Saladin (Qal’at Salah al-Din), a historic fortress offering panoramic views over Damascus.
  • Return to Damascus for dinner at a local restaurant, such as Alaa Al Din (Map), known for its delicious Syrian cuisine.

Day 6: Leisure Day & Exploring the Surrounds

  • Sleep in and have a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or a local café.
  • Visit the beautiful Al-Azem Palace, now home to the National Gallery of Damascus.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring the charming neighborhoods of Bab Srebineh and Qaboun, known for their traditional Syrian architecture, vibrant markets, and friendly locals.
  • Dinner at a local restaurant, such as Al Joud Café (Map), offering a variety of Syrian dishes in a casual setting.

Day 7: Departure

  • Enjoy your final breakfast at your hotel or a local café, taking time to reflect on your journey through Damascus and Syria.
  • Depending on your departure time, you may have some free time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
  • Transfer to the airport for your flight home, taking with you memories of a unique and unforgettable travel experience in Damascus, Syria.

Transportation: Taxis are readily available throughout the city, while private cars can be arranged for day trips. It’s recommended to negotiate prices before starting your journey.

Tips: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and mosques, and always ask permission before taking photographs. Haggling is expected in souqs and markets. Arabic phrases such as “shukran” (thank you) and “la’a shukran” (no thank you) will be appreciated by locals.

Things to Know: Damascus is a safe city, but it’s always best to exercise caution and avoid any political demonstrations or discussions. Ensure your travel insurance covers Syria before traveling, and check the latest travel advisories for updates on safety and entry requirements.