The Best Places to Visit in Syria
Note: Many Government Travel Advisories worldwide advise against travel to Syria due to civil unrest and terrorism across the country.
Syria is one of the oldest continuously inhabited regions on Earth, and the history of the country is genuinely undeniable. It has some of the most ancient cities, some eye-opening ruins of historic sites, and regions with incredible levels of depth. Unfortunately, since 2011 the country has been shaped by a devastating civil war that damaged cities and displaced millions. In fact, before the war the countries population was 22 million, yet it now sits at 18 million, which is a devastating statistic. Now, nearly 2 decades of war has shaped the country in a different way, and while it is definitely not advised to visit, if you do you will see some shocking things no doubt.
Capital: Damascus
Currency: Syrian Pound
Language: Arabic
When to visit: April to May, October to November
1) Damascus
Damascus is Syria’s very old capital, dating back an estimated 10,000 years. It sits in the southwest of the country near Lebanon, and despite the civil war in the country it still has a lively feel and serves as the political and cultural heart of Syria. It has been inhabited and ruled by so many empires in the past, and today over 2 million call Damascus home.
Things to do:
The top spot to wander in the country is Old Damascus, which is the heart of Damascus and has one of the most important religious buildings in the Islamic world - Umayyad Mosque. The covered market known as Al Hamidiyah Souq leads directly towards the mosque, and is one of the busiest spots in the area. You can also see where the Romans left their mark, by walking down the street simply called Straight Street. It cuts through the Old City, passing churches, workshops, and residential areas. And for something with a different vibe, head to the Christian Quarter. Most of your meaningful experience will come in the Old City - outside neighborhoods will essentially just show you people’s day to day living inside Syria’s capital city.
How to get there:
Damascus International Airport (DAM) exists, but flights are limited.
The only other way to enter is through crossing the land border from Lebanon to Damascus with either car, bus or taxi.
2) Krak des Chevaliers
Krak des Chevaliers is one of the most complete and imposing medieval castles anywhere in the world, rising from a hilltop in western Syria just above Lebanon’s northern border. Krak des Chevaliers reached its peak in the 12th and 13th centuries, when it was taken over and expanded by the Knights Hospitaller during the Crusades. What makes the castle so remarkable is not just its size, but how advanced it was for its time.
Things to do:
Head inside the fortress of Krak des Chevaliers, where you can walk along long stretches of wall and see exactly how the castle was designed to control every approach. The views over the Homs Gap make it clear why this location was so valuable strategically. Explore the inner courtyard and all the stone halls too, so you can really see the ins and outs of a literal defensive fortress. You can walk around here for quite a while just exploring.
How to get there:
You will need a private taxi/driver or tour guide for the day if coming from Damascus. The closest other city is Homs.