Syria – Monthly Locally-Led Tours

Itinerary

Day 1 – Damascus

Arrival in Damascus, the capital of Syria and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.

After meeting the group, we begin our exploration of the Syrian capital. We visit the Umayyad Mosque, one of the most important religious monuments in the Middle East and a symbol of Damascus. Then we continue to Al-Hamidiyah Souk, the city’s most famous market and one of the best places to experience everyday city life.

We also visit the Azem Palace and Khan As’ad Pasha, the largest historical caravanserai (a traditional inn for merchants) in Damascus. End the day with a walk through the historic centre.

Overnight in Damascus.

Day 2 – Damascus

Today we continue discovering the rich cultural heritage of Damascus. Walk along the historic Straight Street to the House Chapel of Ananias, an important site connected to the early Christian history of Syria.

Along the way, we pass traditional Damascene houses and historic landmarks that reflect the city’s long history. We also learn about the famous brocade fabrics of Damascus, a centuries-old craft known for its intricate designs and cultural significance.

Later, we visit a traditional Arabic calligraphy workshop to observe one of the Arab world’s most important artistic traditions. A visit to Damascus is not complete without a stop at a glass-blowing workshop, where local artisans continue to preserve one of Damascus’ oldest crafts. End the day with free time to browse the city’s renowned mosaic and handicraft shops.

Overnight in Damascus.

Day 3 – Damascus – Bosra – Damascus

Today we take a day trip to southern Syria. Our first stop is Shahba, also known as Philippopolis, the birthplace of the Roman emperor Philip the Arab.

We then continue to Qanawat, a site with various Roman and Byzantine remains. In the early Christian period, it was an important religious centre.

Continue to Bosra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its exceptionally well-preserved Roman theatre. The theatre is one of the best preserved in the ancient world and the highlight of the visit.

We also explore the old city of Bosra, including the cathedral and other historical monuments. At the end of the day, we return to Damascus.

Overnight in Damascus.

Day 4 – Damascus – Palmyra – Al-Mishtaya

We depart for Palmyra, one of Syria’s most famous archaeological sites and often referred to as the Pearl of the Desert. For centuries, Palmyra stood on a key trade route between the Roman Empire, Persia, and further into Asia. Despite the destruction of recent years, it remains one of the most impressive historical sites in the country.

We visit the Temple of Bel, the colonnaded street, the Valley of the Tombs, and the Al-Hayr Al-Sharqi palace.

Later, we continue to Al-Mishtaya in the mountainous region of western Syria.

Overnight in Al-Mishtaya.

Day 5 – Al-Mishtaya – Krak des Chevaliers – Idlib – Aleppo

We start the day at Krak des Chevaliers, one of the best-preserved Crusader castles in the world. The fortress played a major role during the Crusades and still dominates the surrounding landscape.

Group A – After the visit, transfer back to the departure point, marking the end of the 5-day tour.

Group B – We continue to Idlib. Here we visit Serjilla, an abandoned ancient city offering a clear glimpse into Roman and Byzantine life. We then visit Al-Bara, another historical site with remains from multiple periods.

By the end of the day, we arrive in Aleppo, once one of the most important trading cities in the Middle East.

Overnight in Aleppo.

Day 6 – Aleppo

Today we explore Aleppo. We visit the famous Citadel of Aleppo, which has overlooked the city for centuries. We then walk through the souk and visit several churches and the National Museum of Aleppo.

Later in the day, we visit the Monastery of Saint Simeon, one of Syria’s most important Christian archaeological sites.

Overnight in Aleppo.

Day 7 – Apamea – Raqqa

Leaving Aleppo behind, the journey heads east towards Raqqa, a city sitting on the northern bank of the mighty Euphrates River. Enjoy the scenic landscapes through this lesser-visited part of Syria.

A highlight of the day is the Tabqa Dam, one of the country’s most important engineering projects and a defining feature of the surrounding landscape. We then visit Jaber Castle, a fortress that once guarded strategic routes along the Euphrates. Rising above the lake, its distinctive silhouette creates one of the most impressive views in the region. As evening approaches, the Euphrates provides the setting for a memorable sunset.

Overnight in Raqqa.

Day 8 – Raqqa – Hama – Homs

Starting the day, we continue to Hama, a city known for its massive wooden waterwheels along the river, which have defined its skyline for centuries.

We explore the old streets of Hama and visit Al-Azem Castle, one of the greatest examples of Ottoman architecture in the country.

We then move on to Homs, one of the finest examples of Ottoman urban architecture in the country.

In Homs, we first visit the Church of the Holy Belt of Saint Mary and the Khaled Ibn Al-Walid Mosque. After our historic visits, the evening offers time to experience the atmosphere of modern Homs.

Overnight in Homs.

Day 9 – Homs – Maaloula – Damascus

Today we travel to Maaloula, a village known for still speaking Aramaic.

The village is home to some of Syria’s most important Christian sites. We visit the Monastery of Saint Thecla and the Monastery of Saints Sergius and Bacchus, two of the most important religious sites in the village.

Later, we return to Damascus for our final evening in the Syrian capital.

Overnight in Damascus.

Day 10 – Damascus

The morning is free to spend in Damascus before your flight. Depending on your departure time, we can arrange transfer to the airport.

End of the tour.