Syria

Syria is home to some of the oldest inhabited cities in the world and boasts a treasure trove of archaeological and architectural wonders. The city of Damascus, believed to be the world's oldest continuously inhabited capital, mesmerizes visitors with the grandeur of the Umayyad Mosque, the bustle of the Al-Hamidiyah Souq, and the winding alleys of its Old City, where ancient houses, Roman gates, and Ottoman-era courtyards tell stories of a layered past. In Aleppo, another ancient city, the Citadel of Aleppo rises dramatically above the old town — a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its intricate medieval fortifications and its historical significance along the Silk Road. The ruins of Palmyra, once a flourishing desert city and a vital hub of trade between the East and West, are hauntingly beautiful — its colonnaded streets, Temple of Bel, and Roman theater reflect the city’s former glory. Other historic sites include Bosra, with its exceptionally preserved Roman amphitheater made of black basalt, and Maaloula, a Christian village nestled in cliffs where Aramaic — the language of Christ — is still spoken. From Crusader castles like Krak des Chevaliers to ancient mosaics in Apamea, Syria’s attractions reflect its extraordinary role in shaping human civilization.

Syrian cuisine is a rich and flavorful reflection of the country’s Levantine roots. Meals often begin with a variety of mezze — small dishes like hummus, baba ghanoush, tabbouleh, labneh, and moutabbal, served with warm khubz (flatbread). A classic Syrian dish is kibbeh, made from bulgur wheat and minced meat, shaped into balls or pies and often fried or baked. Fatteh, a dish of layered bread, chickpeas, yogurt, and spices, is a comfort food often enjoyed for breakfast or lunch. Shawarma, seasoned meat shaved from a rotating spit and wrapped in bread, is a ubiquitous street food favorite. Hearty stews like yakhni (meat and vegetable in tomato or lemon sauce) and mahshi (vegetables stuffed with rice and meat) are traditional home-cooked fare. For dessert, baklava layers phyllo with nuts and honey, while ma’amoul — buttery cookies filled with dates or pistachios — are popular during holidays. Meals are often shared communally, emphasizing hospitality and generosity.

Prior to the conflict, Syria had an extensive network of intercity buses, shared taxis (service taxis), and trains connecting major cities. Roads between Damascus, Homs, and Aleppo were well-maintained, and public transportation within cities was affordable and widely used. In current conditions, movement is highly restricted and often limited to secure zones or areas under specific control. Any future travel should be arranged through registered local guides or operators with deep knowledge of current security protocols. Private drivers are essential for safe and efficient travel between sites, and official permits may be required to access certain areas. Visitors should avoid self-driving or using informal transport options due to varying safety conditions and checkpoints. For future travelers, researching transportation arrangements through diplomatic channels or humanitarian organizations will be crucial.

Before the crisis, Syria was considered a very affordable destination. Accommodations, food, and transportation were budget-friendly, with high value for money. Meals at local restaurants cost just a few dollars, and guesthouses and boutique hotels provided warm hospitality at low prices. Travelers who may plan to visit in the future should monitor safety and stay informed about what parts of the country are open and secure. If peace returns and tourism infrastructure is rebuilt, costs are expected to remain lower than neighboring countries, making Syria once again a great option for budget-conscious travelers interested in cultural tourism. Shopping at souqs (markets) is both a cultural experience and a way to find affordable handicrafts, though visitors should always bargain respectfully and support local artisans when possible.

Currently, most governments strongly advise against all travel to Syria due to the ongoing security situation, risk of armed conflict, and limited consular services. There are active conflict zones, risks from unexploded ordnance, terrorism, and kidnappings, and infrastructure — including healthcare — may be compromised or unstable. Travelers should avoid planning a visit unless absolutely necessary and only if accompanied by authorized, security-trained personnel or humanitarian organizations operating legally in the area. If travel ever becomes safe again in the future, travelers should register with their embassy, carry identification at all times, and comply strictly with all local laws, checkpoints, and curfews. Caution, cultural sensitivity, and thorough preparation would be essential.

Syrian society is deeply rooted in tradition, family, and hospitality. Guests are treated with great generosity, and it’s customary to offer tea or sweets to visitors, even strangers. When entering a home, removing shoes is expected. Conservative dress is advised, especially for women — covering shoulders and knees is appropriate in public, and a headscarf may be required when visiting religious sites. Public displays of affection are generally discouraged, and respectful behavior in mosques, churches, and shrines is essential. Greetings are warm and often include handshakes and phrases like “Ahlan wa sahlan” (welcome). It’s polite to accept food or drink when offered, and refusing may be seen as disrespectful. Photography should be approached carefully — always ask for permission, particularly around people or sensitive areas.

Syria is best suited for cultural historians, archaeology enthusiasts, heritage-focused travelers, and those with a deep respect for ancient civilizations and complex societies. In the future, when safety is reestablished, Syria may attract travelers who value slow, reflective travel, where each site visited carries profound historical and emotional weight. It is not currently suitable for casual tourism or light leisure but offers unmatched depth for those seeking meaning, resilience, and memory in the places they explore.

Prior to the conflict, Syria offered a range of accommodations from family-run guesthouses in Damascus and Aleppo to historic boutique hotels housed in Ottoman-era mansions. Examples included the elegant Beit al-Mamlouka in Damascus, with its antique furnishings and shaded courtyards, and Villa Rosa in Aleppo. For travelers in the future, these types of accommodations — if restored — will likely return as the country rebuilds its tourism sector. They offer immersive stays with architectural charm and personal hospitality. Budget-friendly hostels and inns were once common, particularly near major archaeological sites, and luxury hotels such as the Four Seasons Damascus provided higher-end experiences. However, travelers should be aware that many properties have been damaged or repurposed and will need time to reopen or rebuild.

One of the most critical mistakes a traveler could make today is underestimating the safety risks or entering the country without proper research, security support, and local knowledge. Even when tourism returns, travelers should avoid wandering without a guide, taking photographs of military personnel or buildings, or discussing political matters publicly. Another common misstep is not dressing conservatively, particularly in rural areas or religious sites. Disrespecting local customs, refusing food or tea when offered, or haggling aggressively in markets may also create tension. If visiting in the future, travelers should take time to understand Syria’s complex cultural and historical identity, which varies region by region.

At present, connectivity may be limited, but future travelers could benefit from offline tools such as Maps.me, Google Translate with Arabic downloaded, and a VPN app due to censorship or internet restrictions. If stability returns, navigation apps like Google Maps and Here WeGo will be useful for locating sites and navigating cities. For cultural context, downloading guides like Syrian Heritage Archive or offline travel guides from Lonely Planet can offer insight into historical landmarks and ruins. Travelers should also use embassy or consulate mobile apps, and apps like SmartTraveler (U.S. State Dept) or TravelSmart for emergency contact information and alerts.

Once it is safe to return, a thoughtful 7–10 day itinerary might begin in Damascus, exploring the Umayyad Mosque, Azem Palace, and local markets. A day trip to Maaloula could offer insight into Christian heritage and Aramaic culture. From there, travel to Homs or Hama, historically known for its norias (ancient water wheels), before continuing north to Aleppo to visit the citadel, traditional bathhouses, and rebuilt souqs. A final leg could include Palmyra, if accessible, for its haunting desert ruins, or Bosra, with its grand Roman theater. Travelers should always arrange trips through trusted guides and prioritize cultural sensitivity and personal safety.

Syria is home to Damascus, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history stretching back over 11,000 years. The Umayyad Mosque in Damascus is one of the oldest and most revered mosques in the Islamic world, and the Straight Street mentioned in the Bible still exists today. Syria was once a major stop along the ancient Silk Road, linking the East and West through a bustling exchange of goods and ideas. The city of Aleppo hosted one of the oldest covered markets in the world — over 13 kilometers of interconnected souqs. The country has given the world contributions in poetry, science, cuisine, and architecture, and its layered identity is shaped by empires including the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans.