⭐ Top Things to Do in Damascus

1. Visit the Umayyad Mosque

One of the most important mosques in the Islamic world and a masterpiece of early Islamic architecture.
Highlights:

• Vast courtyard with golden mosaics

• Shrine of John the Baptist (Prophet Yahya)

• Intricate prayer halls

• Peaceful ambiance for reflection

2. Wander the Old City’s Ancient Alleys

The Old City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with stone lanes, hidden courtyards, and centuries-old houses.
Don’t Miss:

• Traditional Damascene courtyard homes

• Ancient city gates: Bab Touma, Bab Sharqi, Bab al-Jabiya

3. Explore Straight Street (Via Recta)

The legendary Roman-era colonnaded street, referenced in the Bible.
Great for:

• Photography

• Visiting churches

• Walking through a corridor of layered history

4. Shop and Explore at Hamidiyyeh Souk

A lively bazaar beneath an iron-vaulted ceiling.
Look for:

• Aleppo soap

• Spices and pistachios

• Textiles, perfumes, copperware

• The famous Bakdash ice cream shop

5. Tour Azem Palace (Qasr al-Azem)

One of the finest surviving Ottoman palaces in Syria.
Features include:

• Mosaic courtyards

• Lavish woodwork

• Traditional Damascene architectural style

6. Visit the Christian Quarter (Bab Touma)

A charming district with narrow lanes, small churches, cafés, and restaurants.
Great for:

• Evening strolls

• Dining

• Seeing Syria’s diverse religious heritage

7. Discover the Jewish Quarter (Harat al-Yahud)

Though small and quieter today, it contains distinctive architecture and historic synagogues (access depends on guide arrangements and current conditions).

8. Visit the National Museum of Damascus

The country’s largest museum, showcasing:

• Palmyrene statues and reliefs

• Ancient Ugaritic tablets

• A reconstructed Byzantine synagogue interior

• Artifacts from every era of Syrian history

9. Relax in a Traditional Hammam

Damascus is home to centuries-old bathhouses such as:

• Hammam Nur al-Din

• Hammam Bakri

Ideal for a warm steam, massage, and cultural immersion.

10. Enjoy Damascene Cuisine & Cafés

Damascus offers fantastic traditional food and atmospheric eateries.
Try:

• Kibbeh, kousa mahshi, fattoush, shish tawouk, shawarma

• Sweet treats like knafeh and ma’amoul
  Great areas:

• Bab Touma

• Bab Sharqi

• Midan district (famous for sweets)

Ma‘loula is famous for its dramatic cliffside setting, ancient Christian heritage, and for being one of the few remaining places in the world where Western Aramaic—the language of Jesus—is still spoken by some residents. It’s a serene, culturally rich destination just a short drive north of Damascus.

⭐ Top Things to Do in Ma‘loula

1. Visit the Monastery of Saints Sergius & Bacchus (Mar Sarkis)

One of the oldest surviving monasteries in Syria, dating back to the 4th century.
Highlights:

• Early Christian architecture

• Ancient altar with pagan influence

• Peaceful courtyard

• Liturgical traditions in Aramaic

This monastery is deeply atmospheric and sits high above the town with sweeping views.

2. Explore the Monastery of Saint Thecla (Mar Takla)

According to tradition, Saint Thecla—disciple of St. Paul—fled to Ma‘loula and lived in a cave here.
What to see:

• Thecla’s cave-shrine

• Pilgrimage candles and icons

• Beautiful mountain surroundings

The monastery sits at the base of dramatic limestone cliffs.

3. Walk Through the Sacred Gorge (Siq of Ma‘loula)

A narrow canyon believed to have miraculously opened to allow Saint Thecla to escape persecution.
Great for:

• Atmospheric hikes

• Photography

• Cooling shade on hot days

The gorge connects the lower part of the village to the upper caves and is one of the most scenic walks in Syria.

4. Listen to or Learn a Few Words of Aramaic

Ma‘loula, along with two nearby villages (Jubb’adin & Bakha), is one of the last places where Western Aramaic survives.
You may hear:

• “Shlomo” — Peace/Hello

• “Tawdi” — Thank you

Guides or residents sometimes offer demonstrations of prayers or poetry in Aramaic.

5. Wander the Old Village Streets

Enjoy the quiet lanes between blue-painted houses typical of Ma‘loula.
You’ll find:

• Small family restaurants

• Local craft shops

• Stunning cliffside views from nearly every angle

6. Take in the Cliffside Scenic Views

Ma‘loula sits at 1,500+ meters elevation, surrounded by rugged mountains.
Great spots include:

• Viewpoints near Mar Takla

• Terraces overlooking the gorge

• Upper hill viewpoints accessed by short hikes

Sunrise and sunset illuminate the limestone cliffs beautifully.

7. Enjoy Local Food in Mountain Restaurants

The village offers cozy, often family-run eateries.
Try:

• Grilled lamb

• Mezze plates

• Fresh bread from clay ovens

• Arak (for those who drink alcohol; the region has a long tradition of producing it)

Homs today is quieter and more subdued than its pre-war past, but it remains a city with deep historical layers, important religious sites, and access to some of Syria’s most remarkable landmarks.

Most travelers visit Homs as part of a cultural or archaeological route, but several sites within and around the city are worthwhile.

⭐ Top Things to Do in Homs

1. Visit the Khalid ibn al-Walid Mosque

One of the most beautiful mosques in central Syria, built in the Ottoman style with two elegant minarets and a black-and-white striped stone façade.
Highlights:

• Shrine of Khalid ibn al-Walid (“The Sword of God”)

• Large prayer hall

• Peaceful courtyard and arches

It’s one of the most iconic structures in Homs.

2. Explore the Old City (Parts Accessible with a Guide)

The Old City includes a mix of early Christian and Islamic heritage.
Key sites (depending on restored sections):

• Um al-Zunnar Church, believed to house the Virgin Mary’s belt

• Ancient alleyways and traditional houses

• Rehabilitated markets and cafés

A guided visit helps navigate which areas are open and well restored.

3. Walk Along the Orontes River

Homs lies on the Orontes (Al-Asi) River, and parts of the riverbank offer nice walks, modern cafés, and views of bridges and greenery.
Great for:

• Evening strolls

• Photography

• Relaxing after long travel days

4. Visit the Homs Museum (When Open)

A regional archaeological museum displaying:

• Roman and Byzantine mosaics

• Local artifacts from central Syria

• Objects from Qatna, Palmyra, and surrounding areas

Availability may vary, so guides typically confirm on the day.

5. Eat Traditional Homsi Cuisine

Homs is known for hearty Levantine dishes and sweets.
Try:

• Kibbeh Homsiyeh

• Shawarma (Homs is famous for it)

• Barazek and ma’amoul cookies

• Tea in modern cafés near the city center

Even after years of conflict and damage, Palmyra remains one of the world’s most iconic ancient cities—a desert oasis that once linked Rome, Persia, Arabia, and the Silk Road. Many structures still stand or are partially restored, and guided visits are possible depending on current conditions. Its vast scale and dramatic desert backdrop make it an unforgettable stop.

⭐ Top Things to Do in Palmyra

1. Explore the Great Colonnaded Street

The grand avenue that formed the spine of ancient Palmyra.
Highlights:

• Rows of towering Corinthian columns

• Side temples, arches, and marketplace remains

• Spectacular sunrise and sunset photography

Walking this boulevard gives you a sense of the city’s former power.

2. Visit the Temple of Bel (Bel-Shamin)

Although heavily damaged, parts of the site, foundations, and surrounding courtyards remain visible.
Significance:

• Once the most important religious sanctuary in Roman Syria

• Blend of Greco-Roman and Near Eastern architectural styles

This temple was the spiritual heart of Palmyra for centuries.

3. See the Arch of Triumph (Reconstructed/Restored Sections)

The monumental arch that marked the ceremonial entry to the colonnaded street.
Even its partial remains are impressive and symbolic of Palmyra’s grandeur.

4. Visit the Roman Theatre

The theatre’s seating and stage backdrop largely survive.
Great for:

• Understanding Palmyra’s cultural life

• Atmospheric desert photography

Some restored carvings are remarkably intact.

5. Tour the Valley of the Tombs

A vast necropolis west of the main ruins.
Here you’ll find:

• Tower tombs

• House tombs

• Elaborate stone funerary reliefs (some originals now in museums)

It’s one of the most haunting and beautiful parts of the Palmyrene landscape.

6. Climb to Palmyra Castle (Fakhr al-Din al-Maani Castle)

Perched on a hill overlooking the ruins, this 17th-century fortress provides the best panoramic view of Palmyra.
Especially stunning at:

• Sunset

• The blue hour

• Early morning, when the ruins glow gold against the desert

7. Visit the Palmyra Museum (Status Varies)

While some artifacts were damaged or looted, parts of the museum’s collection have been recovered and protected. Access depends on restoration status and local guidance.

8. Experience the Desert Oasis of Tadmur (Modern Palmyra Town)

The adjacent modern town offers:

• Palm groves

• Small shops for dates & local products

• Tea houses

• A glimpse of everyday desert life

It’s simple but warm and authentic.

⭐ Best Experiences

• Watching the sunrise over the colonnade

• Photographing the ruins from the castle

• Walking through the desert necropolis

• Learning about Queen Zenobia, the warrior queen who defied Rome

• Feeling the silence and scale of the desert surrounding the ancient city

⭐ Typical Visit Duration

Most travelers spend 3–5 hours exploring the ruins, plus 1–2 hours for the castle and necropolis.
A full day is ideal.

Despite the hardships Aleppo has endured, the city remains a treasure of ancient architecture, revived souks, artisan traditions, and deep history. It’s a city of stone, resilience, and remarkable hospitality.

Most travelers consider Aleppo a highlight of Syria.

⭐ Top Things to Do in Aleppo

1. Explore the Aleppo Citadel

The massive medieval Citadel of Aleppo is one of the largest and oldest fortified structures in the world.
Highlights:

• Monumental entrance bridge and tower

• Crusader-era walls

• Ayyubid and Mamluk structures

• Panoramic views of the entire city

This is Aleppo’s signature landmark and an absolute must-see.

2. Wander the Old Souk (Restored Sections)

The UNESCO-listed, labyrinthine Old Souk is gradually reopening after restoration.
Here you’ll find:

• Traditional craft stalls

• Copper workshops

• Spice merchants with Aleppo pepper

• Fabric sellers & soap makers

Even partially restored, the souk atmosphere is unforgettable.

3. Visit the Great Mosque of Aleppo (Umayyad Mosque)

One of the most historically important mosques in Syria.
Notable features:

• Restored courtyard

• Elegant stonework

• Peaceful ambience

Sections have been rebuilt, and it remains a beautiful spiritual place.

4. Explore the Jdeideh Quarter

A charming Christian district with Ottoman-era stone houses, cafés, and churches.
Best for:

• Evening walks

• Coffee shops

• Cultural atmosphere

• Photography of stone courtyards and ornate facades

5. Discover Aleppo's Traditional Houses (Beit Achiqbash & Others)

Some historic homes have been restored into small museums or cultural centers.
Highlights include:

• Beit Achiqbash (when open) — stunning Damascene-style interior

• Beit Ghazaleh — richly decorated halls

• Exquisite stone ornamentation & wooden mashrabiyas

These houses reveal the elegance of old Aleppine urban life.

6. Try Local Aleppine Cuisine (One of the World’s Great Kitchens)

Aleppo is famous across the Middle East for its food.
Don’t miss:

• Kibbeh Halabiya (Aleppo-style kibbeh)

• Muhammara (walnut-red pepper dip)

• Cherry kebab

• Lahm bi-karaz

• Aleppo pistachio desserts

Aleppine food is rich, fragrant, and deeply tied to local history.

⭐ Historical & Cultural Sites

7. Visit the Armenian Quarter

Home to centuries-old churches and vibrant Armenian culture.
Good for understanding the city’s multicultural heritage.

8. See the Caravanserais (Khans)

Aleppo’s old merchant inns once hosted Silk Road traders.
Some restored khans include:

• Khan al-Gumruk

• Khan al-Wazir

Their courtyards are atmospheric and great for photography.

9. Check the Aleppo Museum (If Open)

The museum houses:

• Roman mosaics

• Bronze Age artifacts

• Palmyrene statues

• Hittite and Aramaic relics

Status varies, so guides typically confirm availability.

⭐ Top Things to Do in Hama

1. See the Famous Wooden Norias (Waterwheels)

The huge medieval norias along the Orontes River are the symbol of Hama. Some date back to the Ayyubid and Mamluk periods.
Best spots:

• Noria al-Muhammadiya

• Noria al-Jisriyya

• The Four Norias complex
  Why they’re special:

• Up to 20 meters tall

• Built without nails

• Once lifted river water into aqueducts for irrigation

They’re particularly beautiful at sunset or when illuminated at night.

2. Walk the Orontes River Promenade

The riverbanks are lined with parks, cafés, and shaded walkways.
Great for:

• Relaxed afternoon strolls

• Tea or coffee by the water

• Watching locals gather in the evenings

It’s one of the most peaceful urban spaces in Syria.

3. Explore Hama’s Old City

Though quieter today, sections of the Old City remain atmospheric.
You can see:

• Traditional stone alleyways

• Small artisan shops

• Historic houses

A guided walk helps identify restored areas and hidden details.

4. Visit Azem Palace (Qasr al-Azem)

Not to be confused with the palace in Damascus, Hama’s Azem Palace is a beautiful 18th-century governor’s residence.
Features include:

• Elegant courtyards

• Fountains

• Ottoman architecture

• Exhibits on local history

One of the city’s top cultural sites.

5. See the Great Mosque of Hama

Originally an Umayyad structure, rebuilt several times.
Notable for:

• Graceful courtyard

• Historic minaret

• Peaceful, austere design

6. Enjoy Local Food & Sweets

Hama is known for its Levantine home-style cooking.
Try:

• Kibbeh Hamiyeh

• Fatteh variations

• Fresh grilled meats

• Syrian ice cream & pistachio desserts along the river