This Syria Travel Guide 2024 provides a safe and thoughtful way to travel through the main areas of this ancient and mystical country that are still available to tourists.  We share our 4 day itinerary in Syria, all logistics and guide information.  We also ponder the question: Is Syria safe in 2024?

Syria, a country once synonymous with priceless antiquities, ancient civilizations and a peaceful coexistence between Christians, Muslims and Jews is now a shadow of it’s former self.  However in those shadows lies a resilience, fortitude and a great sense of community.

If you are an off the beaten path traveler who enjoys history, different cultures and the study of people, then this trip may be for you.  Join us in this post to see if  this 4 day itinerary in Syria is something that piques your interest.  Please note that a journey here is one with few luxuries, little internet connectivity and few comforts of the west.

This 4 day itinerary in Syria is for those with a sense of wanderlust, searching for hidden treasures in the far corners of the earth where few tread.  And if you enjoy off the beaten path travel, have you seen our travels through Algeria or Lybia?

Is Syria Safe in 2024?

One of the questions that we get asked a lot is, “Is Syria safe in 2024?”

While parts of Syria are seeing a return to stability and tourism, it’s crucial to understand that the overall situation remains complex. Some areas are safe for travel with experienced guides and organized tours, but parts of the country (especially the north) are still facing ongoing conflict and security risks.

Our 4 day itinerary in Syria was through areas that are considered to be a tourist safe zone and with our wonderful guide and driver, we felt safe every step of the way.

However, official travel advisories from many countries strongly advise against all travel to Syria. The risks include terrorism, kidnapping, and unpredictable violence. Additionally, essential services like healthcare and infrastructure can be severely limited.

If you are considering travel to Syria, it is paramount to:

• Thoroughly research the current situation: Consult official travel advisories and stay informed about the latest developments.
• Choose a reputable tour operator: Only travel with experienced guides who prioritize safety and have extensive knowledge of the current conditions.  Ours were amazing!
• Stick to established tourist routes: Avoid venturing into areas with active conflict or known security risks.
• Be prepared for challenges: Infrastructure may be damaged, and basic amenities might be limited.

Remember, the decision to travel to Syria is a personal one with inherent risks. Weigh the potential rewards of experiencing this ancient and culturally rich country against the risks. If you do decide to go, make sure you are working with great guides and following their direction.

Recommended Tour Operator and Guides – Syria Travel Guide 2024

Our journey was meticulously planned by Ghaidaa Ayoub of the Golden Team in Syria.  Ghaidaa arranged our security clearance, transportation, accommodations,itinerary and our wonderful guide and driver, Thar and Abo Azad.

For our drives in and out of Damascus, we were accompanied by Ahmad, our knowledgeable Lebanese guide, who expertly navigated the complexities of border crossings and provided invaluable insights into Lebanese history and the situation in Syria.

Ghaidaa Ayoub What’s App: +963 951 871 701

Ahmad Almasry What’s App: +961 78 870 129

Day 1: Getting here and exploring Old Damascus

Our adventure began in Beirut, where Ahmad met us at our hotel and drove us to the Syrian border. The process of stamping out of Lebanon was complicated, but Ahmad showed us the way.  We then drove for about 10 minutes through no man’s land to reach the Syrian border.  

Here is where things got tricky and we had to wait at different teller windows for various approvals, payments and stamps.  Ghaidaa had pre-arranged our Syrian clearance which allowed us to pay for and receive our Syrian visa at the land border.

Ahmad was there at each step shepherding the way and speaking to the guards and agents. Unfortunately we had arrived at the border at the same time as multiple tourist buses were also trying to get through.

After a few hours at the border, and a 1.5 hour drive , we arrived in Damascus, the capital city.  Ahmad then drove us into Old Damascus where we were dropped off at the Via Recta Hotel.  An ancient Old Damascus grand home which was renovated into a boutique hotel.

Thar, our lovely Syrian guide met us at the hotel, and after providing passports and dropping off our backpacks, we ventured out into Old Damascus eager to explore.

Old Damascus, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with labyrinthine alleys, lively souks, and ancient landmarks which transported us back in time. We enjoyed the grandeur of the Umayyad Mosque, one of the oldest and largest mosques in the world. Its vast courtyard, intricate mosaics, and towering minaret are important symbols for Syria’s Islamic heritage.

We also wandered down Straight Street, mentioned in the Bible as the place where St. Paul was converted to Christianity. Along this historic thoroughfare, we visited the Church of St. Ananias, where Paul was baptized.

Wandering along the narrow cobblestone streets we stopped for freshly baked breads, which were so hot that they were hard to hold!  And we sipped freshly squeezed pomegranate juice which had the perfect sweetness to tart ratio.

Our day ended with Rob grabbing some shwarma at one of the tiny kiosks nearby.   As we strolled back to our hotel through the moonlit streets, we were struck by the city’s warmth and hospitality.

Day 2: Saydnaya, Maaloula and Krak des Chevaliers

On our second day, we left the hotel early (after a huge breakfast spread)  to travel to the village of Saydnaya to visit the beautiful and mystical Monastery of Our Lady of Saydnaya.   It is one of the oldest monasteries in the world, traditionally believed to have been founded by Byzantine Emperor Justinian I in 547 AD. 

The monastery houses a revered icon of the Virgin Mary, said to have been painted by St. Luke, which attracts pilgrims from across the globe seeking blessings and miracles. The monastery complex itself is a beautiful example of Byzantine architecture, featuring numerous chapels, courtyards, and a bell tower. 

Our journey continued to Maaloula, where Aramaic, the language of Christ is still spoken.  There we visited the famous Monastery of Saint Thecla which took our breath away.  

The monastery, perched on a hilltop overlooking the surrounding countryside, is built around a grotto, where according to legend, Saint Thecla sought refuge while fleeing persecution. 

The nuns that live here were kidnapped during the war by the Islamic State.  They were later traded for ISIS fighters.  Their faces were so kind, yet still carried a sense of pain.  I can only imagine the hell that they must have endured.  Since the kidnapping and the war, one of the nuns has passed away, yet 13 still remain.

I felt like I had a real connection with the nun that was dispensing cups of holy water from the endless spring.  Our eyes met and we must have held each other’s gaze for at least 20 seconds.  There was something majestic, hypnotic and calming about her.  Even though I am not religious, an unexpected feeling came over me and I began to weep.  It was a very powerful and memorable moment.

After leaving the monastery we hiked along the famous mountain path that Saint Thecla – according to legend, had ran through to evade capture.  

On top of the mountain we walked through the remnants of the bombed shell of the 5 star hotel perched high on the mountain above the monastery.  This hotel was occupied by the Islamic State and later, when they were finished with the iconic building they destroyed it.

Walking through the rubble of the place, the gravity of what happened here, in this holy place hung heavily over me.  After we hiked out of the mountain, Abo Azad was there to pick us up and drive us to the only cafe left standing in the area.  There, we sampled different versions of their famous zaatar bread.  They even had a delicious vegan version.

Next, we continued to the Krak des Chevaliers, a magnificent Crusader castle that stands as a testament to the region’s turbulent history. Its imposing walls, towers, and courtyards transported us back to the era of knights and conquests.

Currently, the castle is in a state of great disrepair, but wandering through the halls of what must have been a grand place was impressive.  As we meandered through the fortress we noticed another group of people.  They were Russian “security” personnel each carrying a weapon and clearly enjoying the premises.  We could not help but wonder why they were there.  

As the sun was setting, we drove to our hotel in Homs.   In Homs we passed through neighborhoods that were devastated by the war.  Whole city blocks were wiped out by the shelling and the devastation was palpable.  Yet people carried on with their day living amongst the rubble.

The Homs Grand Hotel where we stayed was no longer grand, but provided a clean place to lay our heads and be ready for the next day of exploration.

Day 3: Safe Travel to Palmyra

On our third day we got up earlier than usual to drive to Palmyra, an ancient oasis city in the Syrian Desert. Once a thriving metropolis on the Silk Road, Palmyra’s ruins now bear the scars of the conflict. The sight of the damaged Arch of Triumph and the destroyed Temple of Bel was difficult to look at.

Thar told us that prior to the war, it would take her 2 days to walk clients through this ancient city.  However, after the carnage, all that was left of the Valley of the Tombs was just one looted  tomb and a lot of rubble.  

The abandoned 5 star hotel in Old Palmyra with it’s natural spring and pool and the Palmyra Castle on the hill are currently occupied by different and unusual non Syrian security personnel.  We have to say that we were shocked by their presence.  

Despite the destruction, Palmyra’s remaining structures, including partial colonnaded streets, the theater, and the one tomb in the Valley of the Tombs, still evoke a sense of its former grandeur. Walking through the ruins, we imagined the glory of the city that once stood here, a crossroads of cultures and civilizations.

We’d heard from guides that revisiting Palmyra after the war would be disappointing compared to its former glory. But, we’re glad we went anyway. Seeing the destruction firsthand was a powerful experience.

Most of the residents of Palmyra have left.  The city remains mostly abandoned and shelled.  Many of the buildings have “No Mines” written in Russian on them in huge letters. Quite an eerie sight.  We grabbed some falafels and fresh dates from one of the very few kiosks remaining.

Day 4: Old Damascus Jewish Quarter,  and Departure

After a traditional Syrian breakfast spread, including freshly baked bread, olives, cucumbers, tomatoes, cheese,hummus, aromatic coffee and other delights we went back onto the streets of Old Damascus.  

On our final morning in Damascus, Thar took us on a walking tour of the Jewish Quarter.  Prior to the war there were quite a few Jewish people living there, however now there were only a handful.  The synagogue is no longer open to the public and the streets were quiet.

Thar took us to one of her favorite fresh zaatar kiosks in Old Damascus.  This place is a hole in the wall but has a line for the famous bread during all hours of the day and night.  

We also visited a traditional silk weaving workshop, where artisans demonstrated their intricate craft. The colorful fabrics and delicate patterns were a testament to Syria’s textile heritage.  One of Queen Elizabeth’s dresses was made out of the Syrian silk produced in this shop.

Walking along the cobblestones, Thar directed us into the gallery of the famous Syrian sculptor Mustafa Ali.  His gallery is set in an old style Damascus home filled with his masterpieces throughout the courtyard and rooms.  This is a really beautiful place to reflect and appreciate his thoughtful art.

Our last stop was Bakdash, a legendary ice cream shop renowned for its creamy, stretchy booza (Arabic ice cream). As Thar and Rob enjoyed their final licks, we reflected on our incredible journey through Syria.

Syria Travel Guide 2024 – Practical Tips

Our 4 day itinerary in Syria took us to some incredible places.  It was a whirlwind of emotions, from awe and wonder to sadness and reflection. The country’s beauty and cultural richness are undeniable, but the scars of war are also ever-present.

We witnessed the resilience of the Syrian people and their unwavering spirit in the face of adversity. We saw hope in the eyes of children playing in the streets, and determination in the faces of those rebuilding their lives.

While Syria may not be the easiest or most conventional travel destination, it offers a profound and unforgettable experience. It’s a land of contrasts, where ancient history meets modern challenges, and where beauty and resilience coexist.

Practical Tips 

• Safety First: Thoroughly research the current situation in Syria and follow all travel advisories. Partner with a reputable tour operator and experienced guide to ensure your safety and security.
• Visa Requirements: Obtain the necessary visa and any required permits before your trip.  The Golden Team will pre-arrange everything for you, if you travel with them.
• Currency Exchange: Bring enough cash (Euros or US dollars) to cover your expenses, as credit cards are not widely accepted.  It is recommended to exchange currency prior to entering Syria as the exchange is better in Lebanon.  Ahmad took us to one of the exchange shops at the border.  Be prepared to carry large stacks of cash as the exchange with make you a millionaire.  
• Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly and be mindful of cultural sensitivities.
• Learn a Few Arabic Phrases: While many Syrians speak English, knowing a few basic Arabic phrases will enhance your interactions with locals.
• Be Patient: Things may move at a slower pace in Syria, so be patient and flexible.
• Prepare for the Unexpected: Be open to new experiences and encounters, and allow yourself to be surprised by Syria’s beauty and resilience.

Wrap Up – 4 day Itinerary in Syria

Traveling to Syria today demands a mindful approach. Partnering with experienced guides and reputable tour operators is essential to ensure safe and responsible exploration.  

Yes, many think of conflict and devastation, when  thinking of this country.  Yet, Syria  is slowly emerging from the shadows of war. While scars remain, its timeless beauty, rich history, and resilient people offer so much to  intrepid travelers seeking an experience beyond the ordinary. 

Our journey to Syria was an eye-opening and transformative experience. It challenged our preconceptions, deepened our understanding of the country’s complex realities, and left us with a profound appreciation for its beauty, history, and people. While the road to recovery is long, Syria’s spirit shines brightly, reminding us of the power of hope and resilience.

Have you been to Syria or perhaps are thinking about traveling there?  Let us know in the comments as we would love to answer any of your questions to make your trip as smooth and memorable as possible.