Damasco - Discovering Syria

Travelling to Damasco

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Damasco, a pretty good destination in Syria (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Damasco and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Damasco, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Syria, here's everything to know about Damasco for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Damasco

Damasco, also known as Damascus, is the capital and largest city of Syria. It is located in the southwest of the country, in the eastern foothills of the Anti-Lebanon mountain range. The city has a rich history of over 5,000 years and is considered to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Damasco is known for its well-preserved historic sites, including the old city center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city also has a vibrant souq (marketplace) where visitors can browse for handicrafts, spices, and other traditional Middle Eastern products. However, due to the ongoing crisis in Syria, it is important to carefully research safety concerns and travel advisories before planning a trip to Damasco.

What to visit in Damasco

Here are some tourist attractions in Damascus, Syria: 1. Umayyad Mosque: Also known as the Great Mosque of Damascus, it is one of the oldest and most significant mosques in the world. It was built in the 7th century and is considered to be the fourth holiest site in Islam. The mosque features intricate architecture, including a grand courtyard and a gold-plated dome.
2. National Museum of Damascus: This museum is home to artifacts and exhibits that showcase the rich history of Syria, dating back to Paleolithic times. The museum features antique objects from various civilizations, including Roman, Byzantine, Islamic, and more.
3. Old City of Damascus: It is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Old City is surrounded by ancient walls and is home to beautiful historic landmarks such as the Citadel of Damascus, the Bab Sharqi Gate, and the Straight Street.
4. Azem Palace: It was built in the 18th century and is located in the heart of the Old City of Damascus. The palace showcases the lifestyle of wealthy Damascene families during the Ottoman era and features intricate decorations such as Arabesque motifs and woodcarvings.
5. Souq al-Hamidiyya: This is a traditional Middle Eastern marketplace located in the Old City of Damascus. It is one of the largest and oldest markets in the world, stretching for over a kilometre. The Souq is home to many vendors selling textiles, spices, crafts, and more.
6. Mount Qasioun: This mountain overlooks Damascus and is a popular site for hiking and outdoor activities. On the top of the mountain, there is a panoramic viewpoint that offers stunning views of the city.
7. Saladin's Tomb: This is the tomb of the famous Muslim ruler Saladin, who captured Jerusalem from the Crusaders in the 12th century. The tomb is located in a beautiful garden near the Umayyad Mosque. Note: Due to political instability and safety concerns in Syria, it is highly recommended to check with the government travel advisories and consult a reputable tour operator before planning a trip to Damascus.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Syria, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Damasco.

When to go on holiday to Damasco

I'm sorry, but I cannot recommend traveling to Damascus, or any other part of Syria, at this time due to various safety and security concerns. Syria has been experiencing conflict and political unrest for several years, and the situation is ongoing and unpredictable. It is essential to monitor the travel advisories provided by your government and consider alternative travel destinations.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Damasco

The most common way to get to Damascus (Syria) is by flying into the Damascus International Airport (DAM). There are several airlines that have direct flights to Damascus from major cities, including Middle East Airlines, Turkish Airlines, and Aeroflot. It is recommended to check the latest travel restrictions and entry requirements before booking your flight to Damascus.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Damasco, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Damasco

Sure, here are some traditional foods of Damascus, Syria: 1. Shawarma: This is a popular street food consisting of marinated meat (usually chicken or lamb) that is roasted on a spit and served in a wrap or pita bread with vegetables and garlic sauce.
2. Kibbeh: This is a dish made of minced meat (usually beef or lamb), bulgur wheat, and spices. It can be shaped into balls, patties, or stuffed with more meat and nuts.
3. Baba ganoush: A dip made of mashed eggplant, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. It's usually served with pita bread.
4. Fattoush: A salad made of mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and fried pita chips. It's dressed with a mix of lemon juice, olive oil, and sumac.
5. Manakish: A flatbread topped with a mix of zaatar (a spice blend of thyme, sumac, and sesame seeds) and olive oil. It's usually eaten for breakfast or as a snack.
6. Baklava: A sweet pastry made of layers of filo dough filled with chopped nuts and honey syrup.
7. Mahshi: Vegetables (like eggplant, zucchini, or peppers) stuffed with a rice and meat mixture and cooked in a tomato sauce.
8. Moutabal: A dip made of roasted eggplant, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Similar to baba ganoush, but with a slightly different preparation. These are just a few examples of the delicious and diverse foods that can be found in Damascus, Syria.
You can find general info about typical foods in Syria here.

Is Damasco an expensive destination for tourists?

Unfortunately, due to the ongoing conflict in Syria, it is not recommended for tourists to travel to Damascus at this time. Additionally, the cost of living and tourism in Damascus has risen due to the conflict, making it an expensive destination even for locals. If you are planning a trip, it is important to prioritize safety and consider other destinations in the region.

Where to find accomodation in Damasco

The areas that are best to find accommodation in Damascus, Syria are: 1. Old City - This area is perfect for those who want to soak up the historic atmosphere and explore the ancient landmarks of Damascus.
2. Damascus City Center - This is the commercial and cultural hub of Damascus, and it’s the ideal location for those looking to experience the city’s cosmopolitan vibe.
3. Al-Midan - This neighborhood is located in south-central Damascus and is known for its bustling markets and street food scene.
4. Al-Rawda - Situated in the northwest part of Damascus, this neighborhood is quieter than other areas in the city and is known for its beautiful parks and gardens.
5. Abu Rummaneh - This is a more upscale neighborhood in the western part of Damascus, and it’s a great option for those who want to stay in a modern and luxurious setting.
You can check hotel prices at Damasco here:
Booking.com

Is Damasco a safe destination for tourists?

It's important to note that travel safety can change quickly and unexpectedly. At the moment, Syria is facing political and safety concerns due to the ongoing conflict, so it is not recommended for tourists to travel to Damascus or anywhere in Syria. The U.S. Department of State has a travel advisory in place advising against all travel to Syria. It's always a good idea to stay up-to-date with current travel advisories and consult with a travel expert before planning a trip to any destination.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Syria here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Damasco.

What type of travelers will enjoy Damasco the most?

Damasco (Syria) is a city with a rich cultural and historical heritage, and it can be enjoyed by all types of travelers. It's an excellent destination for couples seeking a romantic getaway, as it offers plenty of charming cafes, restaurants, and historical sites. Young people looking for fun can experience the nightlife scene in the city center, where there are plenty of bars and clubs to enjoy. Families with children can explore the museums, markets, and parks and enjoy the welcoming and friendly atmosphere of the city. However, it's worth noting that Syria experienced some civil conflict in recent years, so travelers should check the current security situation before planning a trip.

How to get around Damasco

In Damascus, you can use various modes of transportation to move around the city such as buses, taxis, and minibusses (known as servees). Additionally, you can also opt for car rental services or hire private cars and drivers to take you around. It is recommended to research and plan ahead of time to determine the most convenient and cost-effective mode of transportation based on your itinerary and budget.

What to see around Damasco

Certainly! Here are some possible day trip options from Damascus, Syria: 1. Maaloula: This small town is known for being predominantly Christian and for the fact that its residents still speak Aramaic, a language that dates back to ancient times. You can visit the shrines and churches here, and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
2. Palmyra: This ancient city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, filled with Roman ruins. You can explore the temples, arches, and amphitheaters here, and learn about the history of the area.
3. Bosra: Another UNESCO World Heritage site, Bosra is a beautifully preserved ancient city with Roman, Byzantine and Islamic influences. Visit the theater, the cathedral, and the mosque, and wander through the narrow streets, soaking up the atmosphere.
4. Krak des Chevaliers: This massive castle was built by the Crusaders in the 11th century, and it has been remarkably well-preserved. You can explore the castle's nooks and crannies, and enjoy the picturesque views of the surrounding valley.
5. Qadisha Valley: Located in Lebanon, this beautiful valley is a haven of natural beauty and serenity. Home to monasteries, caves, and historic structures, the Qadisha Valley is a must-see destination for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
6. Sidon: Another city in Lebanon, Sidon is known for its ancient ruins, including its fascinating sea castle, as well as its vibrant markets and picturesque harbor.
These are just a few suggestions! Depending on your interests and preferences, there are many other day trip options available in and around Damascus.
For every travel information about Syria you can click here.

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