Palmyra - Discovering Syria

Travelling to Palmyra

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Palmyra, 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 Palmyra 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 Palmyra, 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 Palmyra for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Palmyra

Palmyra is an ancient city located in central Syria, around 210 km northeast of Damascus. It was an important trading hub and a cultural center in the ancient world, renowned for its beautiful architecture that blends Roman and Persian influences. Palmyra was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980. However, the city suffered significant damage during the Syrian Civil War, and many of its historic buildings and artifacts were destroyed by ISIS. While some restoration work is ongoing, the security situation in the area makes travel there risky and it is not currently recommended for tourists.

What to visit in Palmyra

Palmyra (also known as Tadmor) is an ancient city in Syria known for its rich history and impressive ruins. Some of the main tourist attractions in Palmyra are: 1. The Temple of Bel: This is one of the most important ancient temples in Palmyra, dedicated to the Mesopotamian god Bel. It was built in the 1st century AD and it is known for its impressive architecture and intricate carvings.
2. The Roman Theater: This is a large theater that was built in the 2nd century AD, with a capacity of over 5,000 spectators. It is a popular place to visit, not only for its history but also for its great views of the surrounding landscape.
3. The Arch of Triumph: This grand arch was built in the 3rd century AD to commemorate the victories of the Roman Emperor Septimius Severus and his sons. It stands about 20 meters tall and features many detailed carvings and inscriptions.
4. The Agora: This was the ancient marketplace of Palmyra, where goods were traded and people gathered to socialize. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the Agora and see the remnants of buildings and columns that made up this bustling hub.
5. The Valley of the Tombs: This is a collection of tombs that were built outside of Palmyra for wealthy families. The tombs are decorated with elaborate carvings and inscriptions that give insight into the lives of the people who were buried there.
It's important to note that due to the ongoing conflict in Syria, some of these attractions may not be accessible or may have been damaged. Visitors should exercise caution and seek up-to-date information before planning their trip.
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 Palmyra.

When to go on holiday to Palmyra

It's not recommended to travel to Palmyra (Syria) due to the conflict and unstable situation in the country. The safety of travelers cannot be guaranteed. The US State Department and other governments have issued a travel warning for the entire country. It's important to follow the advice of your government's travel advisory and avoid all non-essential travel to Syria until the situation stabilizes.

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

How to get to Palmyra

Unfortunately, it is currently not recommended to travel to Palmyra, Syria due to safety concerns relating to the ongoing conflict. However, if you are determined to go, you should check with your government's travel advisory and embassy for updated information on the safety situation. Assuming that it becomes safe to travel again in the future, to get to Palmyra, you could first fly into Damascus International Airport. From there, you could take a bus or hire a private car to Palmyra, which is located about 215 km northeast of Damascus. It is advisable to check with reliable local travel operators for the latest information and arrange your transport before arrival.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Palmyra, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Palmyra

Palmyra, or Tadmur, is a city in Syria with a rich culinary heritage. Here are some typical foods of Palmyra with a short description for each of them: 1. Kibbeh: A dish made of minced meat with cracked bulgur wheat, onions, and spices formed into balls or patties and deep-fried or baked.
2. Fatayer: Savory pastries filled with spinach, cheese, or meat and folded into a triangle or boat shape.
3. Mujaddara: A dish made of lentils and rice cooked with caramelized onions, olive oil, and spices like cumin and coriander.
4. Fattoush: A salad made of mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and toasted or fried bread tossed with a lemon and olive oil dressing.
5. Shawarma: Thinly sliced meat (often chicken or lamb) seasoned with spices and roasted on a spit, served in a wrap or pita bread with vegetables and tahini sauce.
6. Tabbouleh: A salad made of chopped parsley, tomatoes, onions, and bulgur wheat dressed with lemon juice and olive oil.
7. Baklava: A sweet pastry made of layers of phyllo dough filled with chopped nuts (usually pistachios or walnuts) and sweetened with honey or syrup.
8. Halva: A sweet confection made of sesame paste, sugar, and flavorings like vanilla or rose water.
9. Za'atar: A spice blend made of dried thyme, oregano, sumac, and sesame seeds often used as a seasoning for bread, meat, or vegetables.
10. Mahshi: Vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or grape leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, ground meat, and spices and baked or boiled.
You can find general info about typical foods in Syria here.

Is Palmyra an expensive destination for tourists?

It is important to note that due to the conflict in Syria, most tourist activities in Palmyra have been suspended. As a result, it is not possible to visit this city as a tourist at the moment.
However, prior to the conflict, Palmyra was considered to be a relatively affordable tourist destination compared to other popular tourist destinations in the Middle East. Accommodations and food were generally reasonably priced, and entrance fees to archaeological sites were also relatively low.

Where to find accomodation in Palmyra

Given the current situation in Syria, it is not recommended to travel to Palmyra at this time. However, if you were to plan a trip in the future, here are some possible areas to consider for accommodation: 1. The city of Palmyra itself: There are a few small hotels and guesthouses located within the city, which would provide easy access to the ancient ruins.
2. Tadmur: This is a nearby town about 10 km from Palmyra that has more options for accommodation, including several budget hotels and modest guesthouses.
3. Homs: Homs is a larger city located about 160 km from Palmyra that has a wider range of hotels and guesthouses, including more upscale options.
It's important to note that the safety situation in Syria is constantly changing, and it's important to check local travel advisories and consult with a qualified travel agent before making any travel arrangements.
You can check hotel prices at Palmyra here:
Booking.com

Is Palmyra a safe destination for tourists?

Palmyra, Syria was once a popular tourist destination due to its well-preserved ancient Roman ruins and historical significance. However, in recent years, due to the ongoing conflict in Syria, the area has become dangerous and is not recommended for tourists or any non-essential travel. The US Department of State and many other countries have issued a Level 4 Travel Advisory, which advises against all travel to Syria due to the high risk of terrorism, kidnapping, and violent crime. It's important to stay up-to-date with the latest travel advisories before planning any trip to Syria.
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 Palmyra.

What type of travelers will enjoy Palmyra the most?

Palmyra, located in Syria, is a historically rich city that has a lot to offer to all types of travelers. However, due to the ongoing conflicts in Syria, it is currently not advisable to travel to Palmyra.
That being said, before the conflicts, Palmyra used to attract a wide range of travelers including history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and culture seekers. The city is famous for its ancient ruins, including the Temple of Bel, the Arch of Triumph, and the Agora. These sites are fascinating and offer a glimpse into the ancient civilization of Palmyra.
Couples looking for a romantic getaway might be enchanted by the city's mystical ambiance, while young people may find the city exciting due to its vibrant nightlife. Families with kids might enjoy exploring the ruins and learning about the city's history together.
Again, at the moment, it is not recommended to travel to Palmyra due to ongoing conflicts. However, anyone interested in the city's history and culture could explore alternative options like books, documentaries, or virtual tours to learn more about this ancient city.

How to get around Palmyra

Palmyra is a relatively small city and common modes of transportation include taxis, buses, and walking. Taxis are a quick and convenient way to get around the city, while buses are a more affordable option for those on a budget. Walking is a great way to explore Palmyra's historic sites and attractions, particularly in the cooler months. However, due to security concerns in the region, it is important to check for any travel advisories before visiting Palmyra or any part of Syria.

What to see around Palmyra

Here are some excellent places to visit in a day trip from Palmyra, Syria: 1. Krak des Chevaliers: This medieval castle is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is located about 80 km west of Palmyra. It is one of the most impressive and well-preserved castles in the world.
2. Hama: This city is known for having the largest waterwheels in the world (called "norias") and is only about 90 km north of Palmyra. It's a lovely spot to visit and learn about Syria's history and culture.
3. Bosra: This ancient city is located about 160 km south of Palmyra and is known for its well-preserved Roman architecture, including a impressive amphitheater and other ancient ruins.
4. Aleppo: While it's a bit farther away (about 250 km north of Palmyra), Aleppo is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Syria and is a must-see for any traveler in the region.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions about planning your trip.
For every travel information about Syria you can click here.

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