Discover Syria – A Journey Through Millennia | From Damascus to Aleppo | History, Culture, Nature & Cuisine. Immerse yourself in a land that belongs to the oldest cultural regions of humanity. This extraordinary round trip through Syria combines ancient world wonders, spiritual sites, vibrant cities, breathtaking nature, and the warm hospitality of its people. Each day tells a new story – of prophets, caravans, kings, and cultures that are still deeply felt today.
10-Day Great Syrian Journey – 10 Days of Cities, Desert, Sea & Sacred Sites
Day 1 – Welcome to Damascus
Your journey begins in Damascus, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. After arrival and hotel check-in, you will experience Umayyad Square, the modern heart of the city. The perfect introduction is a visit to Jabal Qāsiyūn, where an unforgettable panoramic view over the city awaits you at sunset. A traditional dinner introduces you to Syrian cuisine.
Day 2 – Damascus: History You Can Touch
Today you explore the fascinating city of Damascus. First, we begin with a tour of the National Museum. Afterwards we head to the Old City of Damascus. Historic city gates, ancient churches, the Roman Via Recta, magnificent mosques, and Ottoman palaces tell stories of religious diversity and cultural richness. While strolling through the famous souks – from the Hamidiyah Bazaar to Al-Qaimariyya Street – you will experience the scents, colors, and sounds of the Orient. The day ends with folkloric music and oriental atmosphere.
Day 3 – Spiritual Sites: Saidnaya & Ma'lula
Today you visit some of the most important Christian pilgrimage sites in Syria. The famous monastery of Saidnaya impresses with centuries-old icons. In Ma'lula, one of the oldest Christian villages in the world, you can still hear Aramaic – the language of Jesus. Visit to the two monasteries of Mar Tekla and Mar Sarkis. Via Nabek, the journey continues to Homs.
Day 4 – Homs – Palmyra: The Pearl of the Desert
Palmyra, the city of Queen Zenobia. Morning drive to Palmyra, once one of the most magnificent cities of the ancient world. Visit of the Temple of Baal, the Colonnaded Street, the Theatre, and the Valley of the Tombs. After the unique sunset, return drive to Homs.
Day 5 – Homs, Krak des Chevaliers, Amrit, Ugarit, Latakia
Drive to the excellently preserved Crusader castle Krak des Chevaliers. Continue to the Phoenician harbor city of Amrit and along the coast to Ugarit, a trading center of the Canaanites founded in the 3rd millennium BC, where clay tablets with what is considered the oldest alphabet of the world, that of the Canaanites, were found. Overnight in Latakia.
Day 6 – Sea & Crusader Castle
Enjoy relaxing hours on the Syrian coast before visiting the impressive Salah ad-Din Castle. Located high in the mountains, it offers spectacular views and fascinating history.
Day 7 – "The Dead Cities"
We cross the coastal mountains to the Orontes Plain and continue to the "Dead Cities" from Byzantine times. Set among olive groves and orchards, we stroll through the ruins of Albara and Serdjella and continue to the Monastery of Saint Simeon. Overnight in Aleppo.
Day 8 – Trading Metropolis Aleppo
We visit the Great Mosque, famous Islamic schools and caravanserais, and the mighty Citadel that towers high above the rooftops of the Old City. The free afternoon invites you to go shopping in the largest bazaar of the Middle East or to visit the National Museum.
Day 9 – Apamea and Ebla, Hama
Morning drive on the highway to the remains of Ebla from the 3rd millennium BC and to Apamea. Continue to Hama – the Norias on the Orontes River, historic water wheels and the city's landmark. Afterwards, drive back to Damascus. Overnight in Damascus.