The Best Places you can Visit In Syria 

The city boasts a population of approximately 2 million residents and is renowned for its stunning architecture, including the Umayyad Mosque, which is one of the largest mosques globally. The Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features narrow, winding streets filled with vibrant souks, historic buildings, and cultural landmarks. Visitors can explore the Temple of Jupiter and the Al-Hamidiyah Souq, the largest market in Syria, known for its spices, textiles, and handcrafted goods. The city is lively year-round, with various cultural festivals and events, especially in spring and autumn.

Location: Damascus is located in southwestern Syria, nestled at the foothills of the Anti-Lebanon mountain range, approximately 20 km (12 miles) southeast of Damascus International Airport (DAM). The city is about 310 km (193 miles) from Aleppo, 163 km (101 miles) from Homs, and 357 km (222 miles) from Latakia.

How to Get There: To reach Damascus, travelers can fly into Damascus International Airport, which serves various international and domestic flights. From the airport, taxis are readily available to transport visitors to the city center. For those traveling from other cities in Syria, buses and shared taxis are common modes of transport, with frequent services connecting Damascus to major towns.

What Can See: While exploring Damascus, visitors can admire the grandeur of the Umayyad Mosque, stroll through the bustling Al-Hamidiyah Souq, and visit the National Museum of Damascus, which houses significant artifacts from Syria’s rich history. The ancient city walls and the Citadel of Damascus offer a glimpse into the city’s defensive past, while the picturesque streets of the Old City reveal charming cafes and artisan shops.

Read More: Most Popular Travel Destinations In Damascus

What Can Do: In addition to sightseeing, visitors can engage in various activities such as sampling traditional Syrian cuisine in local restaurants, attending cultural festivals, and shopping for unique handmade crafts. The city also offers guided tours that delve into its historical significance and architectural marvels.

Conclusion: Damascus is a city that beautifully blends ancient history with modern life. Its rich cultural tapestry, vibrant markets, and historical landmarks make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to experience the essence of Syria.

making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. The city is famous for its ancient citadel, which towers over the skyline, and the historic souks that were once bustling with trade. Aleppo’s population was around 1.6 million before the civil war, and it remains a symbol of resilience and cultural heritage. The Great Mosque of Aleppo and the Citadel are key historical sites, showcasing the city’s architectural beauty and rich Islamic heritage.

Location: Aleppo is situated in northwestern Syria, approximately 310 km (193 miles) north of Damascus and about 150 km (93 miles) from the Turkish border. The city is easily accessible via the Aleppo International Airport, which is located about 10 km (6 miles) from the city center.

How to Get There: Travelers can reach Aleppo by flying into Aleppo International Airport, where taxis and car rentals are available for transport into the city. Buses and shared taxis from Damascus and other major cities provide convenient options for those traveling overland.

What Can See: Visitors to Aleppo can explore the magnificent Citadel, which offers panoramic views of the city, and the Great Mosque, known for its stunning architecture and historical significance. The souks, particularly the Al-Madina Souk, are perfect for experiencing local culture and shopping for traditional crafts.

Read More: Most Popular Travel Destinations In Aleppo

What Can Do: Aleppo offers a variety of activities, including tasting local delicacies such as kebabs and sweets, visiting art galleries, and participating in cultural events that celebrate the city’s rich heritage. Guided tours are available for those interested in learning more about Aleppo’s history and architecture.

Conclusion: Despite the challenges it has faced, Aleppo remains a city of immense historical and cultural importance. Its ancient sites and vibrant community make it a compelling destination for those interested in exploring Syria’s rich past.

The city has a population of approximately 300,000 and has been a significant cultural and economic center in eastern Syria. The area is famous for its archaeological sites, including ancient ruins that date back to the Roman period. The city has also been a hub for agriculture, particularly in the production of wheat and cotton.

Location: Deir-az-Zur is situated in eastern Syria, approximately 450 km (280 miles) northeast of Damascus. The city lies along the Euphrates River, making it a vital location for trade and agriculture.

How to Get There: Travelers can reach Deir-az-Zur by road from Damascus, with several bus services operating between the two cities. The journey typically takes around 8 hours. Additionally, there are domestic flights available from Damascus to Deir-az-Zur Airport.

What Can See: Visitors can explore the remnants of ancient civilizations, including the ruins of the Roman city of Dura-Europos, which offers fascinating insights into the region’s history. The Euphrates River provides a scenic backdrop for leisurely walks and photography.

What Can Do: Deir-az-Zur offers opportunities for cultural immersion, including visiting local markets and tasting traditional Syrian dishes. The city also serves as a base for exploring nearby archaeological sites and engaging with the local community.

Conclusion: Deir-az-Zur is a city that reflects the rich tapestry of Syrian history and culture. Its archaeological significance and vibrant local life make it an intriguing destination for travelers interested in exploring the less-traveled paths of Syria.

With a population of around 800,000, Hama is located along the Orontes River and has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. The city features several historical sites, including the ancient citadel and various mosques, showcasing its architectural heritage.

Location: Hama is located in central Syria, approximately 213 km (132 miles) north of Damascus. The city is easily accessible by road, making it a convenient stop for travelers exploring the region.

How to Get There: To reach Hama, visitors can take a bus or drive from Damascus, with the journey taking around 3 hours. Hama is also served by local transportation options, including taxis and shared vehicles.

What Can See: The Norias of Hama are a must-see, as they represent the city’s historical relationship with water management and agriculture. The ancient citadel and several mosques, such as the Great Mosque of Hama, offer insights into the city’s architectural beauty and cultural significance.

Read More: Most Popular Travel Destinations In Hama

What Can Do: In Hama, visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the Orontes River, visit local markets, and sample traditional Syrian cuisine. The city also hosts cultural events that celebrate its rich heritage.

Conclusion: Hama is a city that beautifully combines history and culture, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Syria’s past. Its iconic waterwheels and historical sites make it a fascinating destination for travelers.

With a population of around 800,000, Homs has been a center of trade and commerce for centuries. The city features several historical landmarks, including the ancient Crusader castle of Krak des Chevaliers, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in the world.

Location: Homs is located in western Syria, approximately 162 km (100 miles) north of Damascus. The city is strategically positioned along the main highway connecting Damascus to Aleppo.

How to Get There: Travelers can reach Homs by bus or car from Damascus, with the journey typically taking around 2 hours. Local transportation options, including taxis and shared vehicles, are readily available.

What Can See: Visitors to Homs can explore the impressive Krak des Chevaliers, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The city also features various mosques and churches that reflect its diverse cultural heritage.

Read More: Most Popular Travel Destinations In Homs

What Can Do: In Homs, visitors can engage in shopping at local markets, savor traditional Syrian dishes, and participate in cultural events that highlight the city’s rich history.

Conclusion: Homs is a city that showcases the resilience and cultural richness of Syria. Its historical sites and vibrant community make it a compelling destination for travelers interested in exploring the country’s heritage.

Latakia has a rich history that dates back to ancient times, serving as a significant trade hub in the Mediterranean. The city features several historical sites, including ancient ruins and charming neighborhoods, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

Location: Latakia is situated on the Mediterranean coast in northwestern Syria, approximately 220 km (137 miles) northwest of Damascus. The city enjoys a strategic location along the coast, making it accessible for maritime trade.

How to Get There: To reach Latakia, travelers can fly into Latakia International Airport or take a bus from Damascus, with the journey taking around 5 hours. Taxis and shared vehicles are also available for local transportation.

What Can See: Visitors to Latakia can enjoy the beautiful beaches along the Mediterranean, explore the ancient ruins of Ugarit, and visit the local markets that offer fresh seafood and traditional crafts.

What Can Do: In Latakia, visitors can relax on the beach, engage in water sports, and savor delicious Mediterranean cuisine. The city also hosts cultural events and festivals that celebrate its maritime heritage.

Conclusion: Latakia is a vibrant coastal city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Its stunning beaches and rich heritage make it an attractive destination for travelers seeking relaxation and exploration.

With a population of around 200,000, Tartous has a rich maritime history and is home to several ancient ruins, including the Crusader castle of Tartous. The city is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering a mix of cultural experiences and natural beauty.

Location: Tartous is located on the Mediterranean coast in western Syria, approximately 220 km (137 miles) northwest of Damascus. The city’s strategic coastal position has made it an important port throughout history.

How to Get There: Travelers can reach Tartous by bus or car from Damascus, with the journey taking around 5 hours. The city is also accessible by local transportation options, including taxis and shared vehicles.

What Can See: Visitors to Tartous can explore the ancient castle, enjoy the scenic beaches, and visit local markets that offer a variety of fresh seafood and traditional crafts.

What Can Do: In Tartous, visitors can relax on the beach, participate in water sports, and savor delicious Mediterranean dishes. The city also hosts cultural events that celebrate its rich maritime heritage.

Conclusion: Tartous is a charming coastal city that beautifully combines history and natural beauty. Its stunning beaches and rich cultural experiences make it an inviting destination for travelers seeking relaxation and exploration.

Once a significant cultural and economic center, the city has faced challenges in recent years. Raqqa is known for its archaeological sites, including the ruins of ancient Raqqa, which provide insights into its historical significance.

Location: Raqqa is situated in northeastern Syria, approximately 160 km (99 miles) east of Aleppo and 400 km (248 miles) northeast of Damascus. The city is strategically located along the Euphrates River, making it an important site for trade and agriculture.

How to Get There: Travelers can reach Raqqa by road from Aleppo or Damascus, with bus services available for those traveling overland. The journey typically takes several hours, depending on the route.

What Can See: Visitors to Raqqa can explore the archaeological sites that showcase the city’s ancient history and enjoy the scenic views along the Euphrates River. The city also features several mosques and cultural landmarks.

What Can Do: In Raqqa, visitors can engage with the local community, sample traditional Syrian cuisine, and participate in cultural events that celebrate the city’s heritage.

Conclusion: Raqqa is a city with a rich historical legacy, offering visitors a glimpse into Syria’s past. Despite recent challenges, its archaeological significance and vibrant community make it a noteworthy destination for travelers interested in exploring the region.

it was once a thriving Hellenistic and Roman city known for its well-preserved ruins and unique architectural elements. The site covers a vast area, with a mile-long colonnade that is dead straight in true Roman style, providing a stunning visual effect. Visitors can explore the ruins at their own pace, taking in the mesmerizing architecture and intricate decorations that showcase the city’s rich history and cultural significance.

Location: Apamea is situated approximately 55 km north of Hama, in the northwestern region of Syria. It can be easily accessed via hired driver from Hama or nearby cities.

How to Get There: Apamea is easily accessible from Hama by hired driver or private car. Public transportation options include taking a bus from Hama, which will drop you off in the town near the site, about a 300-meter walk from the entrance.

What Can See: Visitors can explore the extensive ruins of Apamea, including the impressive colonnade, the citadel, and several smaller ruins along the access road. The site offers a glimpse into the past, with well-preserved structures and intricate decorations that showcase the city’s architectural and cultural heritage.

What Can Do: Visitors can walk around the vast site at their own pace, taking in the stunning views and capturing memorable photographs. The town near the site also has a museum with mosaics from Apamea, providing an additional attraction for visitors.

Conclusion: Apamea is a must-visit destination for history and archaeology enthusiasts, offering a unique opportunity to explore the well-preserved ruins of an ancient Hellenistic and Roman city. Its mesmerizing architecture, intricate decorations, and historical significance make it a fascinating place to discover the rich cultural heritage of Syria.

The city dates back to the 6th century BC and was an important trading hub during the Roman era. The Roman theater, which can accommodate up to 15,000 people, is one of the most impressive structures in Bosra and a testament to the city’s former grandeur. Visitors can also explore the remains of ancient churches, baths, and other structures that showcase the city’s rich history.

Location: Bosra is situated approximately 140 km south of Damascus, near the border with Jordan. It is easily accessible from the capital city and other major cities in the region.

How to Get There: Visitors can reach Bosra by private car or taxi from Damascus or other nearby cities. Public transportation options include taking a bus or shared taxi from Damascus or Daraa.

What Can See: The main attraction in Bosra is the impressive Roman theater, which is remarkably well-preserved. Visitors can also explore the remains of ancient churches, baths, and other structures that provide insight into the city’s history. The Ayyubid citadel, built in the 12th century, is another notable landmark in Bosra.

What Can Do: Visitors can take guided tours of the site to learn more about its history and significance. The city also has a small museum that displays artifacts found during excavations. Visitors can also explore the nearby markets and shops to experience the local culture and purchase souvenirs.

Conclusion: Bosra is a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich past as an important trading hub and center of culture during the Roman era. The well-preserved Roman theater and other historical sites make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring Syria’s ancient heritage.

These villages, dating back to the 1st to 7th centuries AD, were once thriving communities that were abandoned due to various reasons, including economic decline, natural disasters, and wars. The Dead Cities are known for their well-preserved stone buildings, churches, and other structures that provide insight into the daily life and architecture of the region during the late antique and early Byzantine periods.

Location: The Dead Cities are located in the Aleppo Governorate of Syria, approximately 50 km north of Aleppo city. The sites are spread across a vast area, with the main concentration in the regions of Jebel Semaan and Jebel Barisha.

How to Get There: Visitors can reach the Dead Cities by private car or taxi from Aleppo or other nearby cities. Public transportation options include taking a bus or shared taxi from Aleppo to the nearest town, followed by a short walk or taxi ride to the archaeological sites.

What Can See: The Dead Cities offer a unique opportunity to explore well-preserved stone buildings, churches, and other structures that provide insight into the daily life and architecture of the region during the late antique and early Byzantine periods. Some of the most notable sites include Serjilla, al-Bara, and Qalb Lozeh, each with its own distinctive architectural features and historical significance.

What Can Do: Visitors can take guided tours of the Dead Cities to learn more about their history and significance. The sites offer excellent opportunities for photography, with the well-preserved stone buildings and the surrounding landscape providing stunning backdrops. Visitors can also explore the nearby towns and villages to experience the local culture and purchase souvenirs.

Conclusion: The Dead Cities are a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and architecture lovers, offering a unique glimpse into the past of northwestern Syria. The well-preserved stone buildings and the surrounding landscape make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the region’s rich cultural heritage.

The monastery dates back to the 6th century AD and was an important center of Christian monasticism in the region. The monastery complex includes a church, living quarters, and other structures that showcase the architectural style of the early Byzantine period. Der Mar Musa is known for its well-preserved frescoes and manuscripts, which provide insight into the religious and cultural life of the monastery during its heyday.

Location: Der Mar Musa is situated approximately 80 km north of Damascus, in the Qalamoun Mountains. The monastery is located on a steep cliff, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

How to Get There: Visitors can reach Der Mar Musa by private car or taxi from Damascus or other nearby cities. The monastery is accessible via a winding road that leads up to the cliff, followed by a short walk to the entrance.

What Can See: Visitors can explore the monastery complex, including the church, living quarters, and other structures. The well-preserved frescoes and manuscripts are a highlight of the visit, offering a glimpse into the religious and cultural life of the monastery during its heyday. The stunning location of the monastery, perched on a steep cliff in the Qalamoun Mountains, is another notable feature of the site.

What Can Do: Visitors can take guided tours of the monastery to learn more about its history and significance. The monastery also offers opportunities for meditation and spiritual reflection, with visitors welcome to attend religious services and participate in the daily life of the monastery.

Conclusion: Der Mar Musa is a unique destination that combines history, architecture, and spirituality. The well-preserved frescoes and manuscripts, along with the stunning location of the monastery in the Qalamoun Mountains, make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring Syria’s rich Christian heritage and natural beauty.

is one of the best-preserved examples of Crusader architecture in the world. The castle covers an area of approximately 3,000 square meters and features massive stone walls, towers, and a central keep that showcase the military might and architectural prowess of the Crusaders. Krak des Chevaliers was an important strategic location during the Crusades and played a significant role in the region’s history.

Location: Krak des Chevaliers is situated approximately 40 km west of Homs, in the Homs Governorate of Syria. The castle is located on a hill, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

How to Get There: Visitors can reach Krak des Chevaliers by private car or taxi from Homs or other nearby cities. Public transportation options include taking a bus or shared taxi from Homs to the town of Al-Hosn, followed by a short taxi ride to the castle.

What Can See: Visitors can explore the massive stone walls, towers, and central keep of Krak des Chevaliers, which showcase the military might and architectural prowess of the Crusaders. The castle also features a chapel, cisterns, and other structures that provide insight into the daily life of the Crusaders who lived there. The stunning views of the surrounding countryside from the castle walls are another notable feature of the site.

What Can Do: Visitors can take guided tours of the castle to learn more about its history and significance. The castle also offers excellent opportunities for photography, with the well-preserved structures and stunning views providing memorable backdrops.

Conclusion: Krak des Chevaliers is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the history and architecture of the Crusades. The well-preserved castle, which is one of the best examples of Crusader architecture in the world, offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and learn about the region’s rich history.

The city dates back to the 1st century AD and was an important trading hub during the Roman era, serving as a link between the Roman Empire and the Persian Empire. Palmyra is known for its impressive ruins, including the Temple of Bel, the Tetrapylon, and the Triumphal Arch, which showcase the city’s unique blend of Greco-Roman and Persian architectural styles.

Location: Palmyra is situated approximately 215 km northeast of Damascus, in the Homs Governorate of Syria. The city is located in an oasis in the Syrian Desert, surrounded by stunning desert landscapes.

How to Get There: Visitors can reach Palmyra by private car or taxi from Damascus or other nearby cities. Public transportation options include taking a bus or shared taxi from Damascus or Homs to Palmyra.

What Can See: Visitors can explore the impressive ruins of Palmyra, including the Temple of Bel, the Tetrapylon, and the Triumphal Arch. The ruins showcase the city’s unique blend of Greco-Roman and Persian architectural styles and provide insight into its former grandeur as an important trading hub. The stunning desert landscape surrounding the city is another notable feature of the site.

What Can Do: Visitors can take guided tours of the ruins to learn more about the city’s history and significance. The site also offers excellent opportunities for photography, with the well-preserved ruins and stunning desert landscape providing memorable backdrops. Visitors can also explore the nearby oasis and markets to experience the local culture and purchase souvenirs.

Conclusion: Palmyra is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the history and architecture of the ancient world. The well-preserved ruins and stunning desert landscape make it a unique and unforgettable destination that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Syria.

The castle dates back to the 10th century and was an important stronghold during the Crusades, serving as a base for Saladin’s forces during his successful campaign against the Crusaders in the late 12th century. The castle is known for its massive stone walls, towers, and underground cisterns, which showcase the military might and engineering prowess of its builders. Saladin’s Castle offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the Mediterranean Sea.

Location: Saladin’s Castle is situated approximately 30 km north of Latakia, in the Latakia Governorate of Syria. The castle is located on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

How to Get There: Visitors can reach Saladin’s Castle by private car or taxi from Latakia or other nearby cities. Public transportation options include taking a bus or shared taxi from Latakia to the town of Salma, followed by a short taxi ride to the castle.

What Can See: Visitors can explore the massive stone walls, towers, and underground cisterns of Saladin’s Castle, which showcase the military might and engineering prowess of its builders. The castle also features a chapel, stables, and other structures that provide insight into the daily life of its inhabitants. The stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the Mediterranean Sea from the castle walls are another notable feature of the site.

What Can Do: Visitors can take guided tours of the castle to learn more about its history and significance. The castle also offers excellent opportunities for photography, with the well-preserved structures and stunning views providing memorable backdrops.

Conclusion: Saladin’s Castle is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the history and architecture of the Crusades. The well-preserved castle, which played a significant role in Saladin’s successful campaign against the Crusaders, offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and learn about the region’s rich history.

The city dates back to the 3rd century AD and was an important center of Ismaili Islam during the Middle Ages. Salamieh is home to several historic mosques and shrines, including the Shrine of Sayyida Zainab and the Mosque of al-Nuri, which showcase the city’s rich architectural heritage. The surrounding countryside is known for its fertile farmland, orchards, and olive groves, which provide a scenic backdrop to the city.

Location: Salamieh is situated approximately 50 km southeast of Hama, in the Hama Governorate of Syria. The city is located in a fertile valley, surrounded by rolling hills and mountains.

How to Get There: Visitors can reach Salamieh by private car or taxi from Hama or other nearby cities. Public transportation options include taking a bus or shared taxi from Hama to Salamieh.

What Can See: Visitors can explore the historic mosques and shrines of Salamieh, including the Shrine of Sayyida Zainab and the Mosque of al-Nuri. These sites showcase the city’s rich architectural heritage and provide insight into its history as an important center of Ismaili Islam. The surrounding countryside, with its fertile farmland, orchards, and olive groves, is another notable feature of the city.

What Can Do: Visitors can take guided tours of the historic sites and explore the surrounding countryside. The city also offers opportunities for hiking and nature walks, with several scenic trails leading through the nearby hills and mountains. Visitors can also explore the local markets and shops to experience the city’s vibrant culture and purchase souvenirs.

Conclusion: Salamieh is a unique destination that combines history, architecture, and natural beauty. The historic mosques and shrines, along with the stunning countryside surrounding the city, make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of central Syria.