Syria History / Best things to do in Syria 2023
November,22 2022
Best things to do in
Syria 2023
While planning your trip to Syria, keep in mind that you are
visiting a country with strong historical roots that has once witnessed events
and fluctuations from the era of Sumerians to Phoenicians, Greeks, and Romans.
There is no need to wonder what are the best things to do in Syria
because there are plenty! All you need is a professional travel agency like SyriaLink to guide you through
your stay and highlight all of the country's beauty and excitement for you.
Syria is a nation renowned for its ethnic, religious, and cultural
diversity. Due to this very feature, there are many entertaining things to do
in the country with a lot of great places you should explore, including
Crusader castles, mind-blowing shrines, secluded Christian monasteries, busy
souks, and antiquated Roman remains.
In this article, we will highlight the top Syrian attractions to
visit and entertaining activities to try so you can prepare for and get the
most out of your trip.
Visit our tourist destinations
programs and learn more about Syria's rich history.
Table of content:
- The
current situation in Syria from a tourist standpoint
- What
are the Best things to do in syria ?
- Things
to do in Damascus
- Top
tourist attraction you must visit
- What
to eat in Syria?
The current situation in Syria from a tourist
standpoint
Syria has gained some relative stability thanks to a noticeable
improvement in overall safety, particularly in the western region. For the first time in years,
they are now finally welcoming tourists eager to explore not only ancient
treasures but also meet the lovely Syrian people and learn about the recent
crisis they faced.
What are the Best things to do in syria?
After being a tourist destination for more than 8 million visitors
annually, the country is currently experiencing a severe humanitarian crisis,
where millions of people have either been displaced, dead, or have just
departed the country for a better future. However, Syria's diverse and
expansive natural environment, together with its rich historical heritage,
helped the country regain its significance gradually.
There are numerous activities in the country that are geared
toward those who enjoy the outdoors and adventure, in addition to plenty of
different excursions to keep you occupied, whether you want to explore one of
the country's many mountains, journey through the desert like ancient nomads,
or dig into ancient history.
Hiking activities
The Anti-Lebanon Mountains
The Anti-Lebanon Mountains in Syria are the ideal location for
hiking. This stunning mountain range, which is situated in the country's
southeast, makes up the majority of the border between Syria and Lebanon. The
range has some of the highest peaks in the area and is a terrific place to get
back in touch with nature.
Scuba diving and snorkeling
Many people are unaware that Syria has a coastline that is ideal
for diving activities, including snorkeling and scuba diving. Syria's coast,
which borders the Mediterranean, is home to a large number of water
sports-focused local resorts. While canoeing and kayaking are also options,
snorkeling and scuba diving are the most popular activities.
Bathing and massaging
There is no better way to relax after a long day of sightseeing
than to take a hammam. The term "hammam" refers to a complex of
saunas and steam baths, which is one of the most well-liked leisure activities
in the area. There are hammams all over the country, including the well-known
ones in Aleppo, Hammam Yalbougha an-Nasry and Damascus, Hammam Nur
al-Din. The majority of hammams also offer excellent massage and body scrub
treatments.
Shopping in local souks
The souks are a great opportunity to meet local Syrians and see
some of their unique culture. Numerous souks can be found throughout the
country, although Aleppo and the old city of Damascus have the most.
Click here to read an in-depth article about Syrian shops and fantastic
local goods.
Best things to do in Syria-Damascus
Syria has a lot to offer, and Damascus is a great place to start
your trip in the country. The oldest continuously inhabited city in the world
is said to have been founded in this ancient metropolis between 10,000 and
8,000 BC. The city is believed to be one of the most liberal cities in the
Middle East. Many of Syria's historical sites are located in Damascus. Most
visitors are drawn to the numerous mosques, churches, and crowded markets.
Watch a show at the National Opera House
The new Damascus opera house is a large cultural complex with an
opera theater, a theater for plays, and a multipurpose room. It is a well-liked
location for a lot of theater productions, movie screenings, and concerts. It
serves as the Syrian National Symphony Orchestra's primary venue. You will have
a lot of fun when visiting there!
Get lost in the bars and restaurants
The straight street in the eastern part of ancient Damascus, in
the Bab Sharqi area, features a number of fascinating sights from the
Roman, Christian, and Islamic periods and was visited by St. Paul. There are
numerous bars and pubs on the current route where people come from all over the
country to spend their nights knocking back a few drinks and interacting with
new people!
The fantastic cafes and restaurants in Bab Touma are
particularly well-known for their eastern Syrian cuisine.
Visit Hammam Nur al-Din and have a bath
One of the oldest bathhouses in Damascus is Hammam Nur al-Din.
It has been preserved extremely well and is still in use today. It is located
in Bzuriyyeh Souk, surrounded by a row of stores that sell spices and sweets.
In this location, you can give yourself a hot water rinse, a hard scrub, and a
fantastic massage to relax.
Try Bakdash in Souk Al Hamidiyah
Bakdash is the oldest and probably most well-known ice cream shop
in the Middle East, having opened its doors back in 1895. A must-try is
pistachio-covered ice cream, which is totally amazing.
Visit the National Museum of Damascus
This museum exhibits many significant artifacts, relics, and major
finds, most notably from Mari, Ebla, and Ugarit, three of Syria's most
significant ancient archaeological sites. It spans the entirety of Syrian
history over a period of more than 11 millennia. The Damascus Museum offers a
unique view of Syrian history and is renowned for its colorful and
well-preserved wall paintings and frescoes, as well as its sculptures and
textiles from central Palmyra.
Top tourist attraction you must visit
Syria's landmarks and attractions are largely based on
archaeological discoveries. The area is rich in history, and there is something
to suit every interest, whether you are interested in castles or learning more
about the history of the area by touring the ancient palaces of once-great
kings and queens.
Visit the Umayyad Mosque
One of the world's biggest and oldest mosques. It is considered
the fourth holiest destination in Islam. The mosque is quite spiritual, and you
may observe the spacious open courtyard that is bordered by a lovely arcade of
arches. Pray in the lovely worship space and examine the marble window grilles
and central octagonal dome.
Al Azem Palace
The governor of Damascus, As'ad Pasha al-Azm, had the Azem palace
constructed as his home. On the exterior, you may see the typical Damascene
black patterns made of alternating strips of black and white stone. Investigate
the ornate wooden paneling that covers the interior's walls and ceilings. Enjoy
your tea while relaxing in one of the central courtyards.
Krak des Chevaliers
UNESCO has designated Krak des Chevaliers a World Heritage Site.
It is a massive castle that once belonged to crusaders. The Krak was built in
the 11th century and is not far from the city of Homs. It is regarded as one of
the world's most significant and well-preserved medieval castles. Its location
is significant because the castle looked out over a valley that served as the
only access to the Mediterranean during the First Crusade.
Citadel of Aleppo
One of the oldest castles in the world and one the most well-known
sights in Aleppo, the citadel is a superb example of Islamic architecture. With
its prominent position more than 160 feet above the ancient city, the building
is virtually impossible to miss.
Citadel of Arwad
Arwad Castle is one of the most significant historical landmarks
that define Tartus City, located in the middle of Arwad Island. It was built
using engineering and architectural principles that were suitable for the needs
of ancient mariners and soldiers.
What to eat in Syria?
Syrian cuisine is a fascinating fusion of regional Middle Eastern
and Mediterranean influences. Travelers can enjoy the local cuisine at a number
of nearby restaurants, both fancy and more casual ones. Syrian cuisine benefits
from this variety, which Syrian chefs have taken advantage of and enhanced with
their exquisite taste.
Street Food
- Syrian
Shawarma: One of Syria's most well-known
street dishes is shawarma, which is cooked with chicken breast and
specific spices and served with pickled cucumbers and a special garlic
cream, all on homemade bread.
- Manakish:
Similar to a pizza, the round bread is cooked topped
with cheese, meat, zaatar, or tomato sauce. It is wonderful when paired
with a cup of tea and is now one of the most well-known Syrian foods,
especially for breakfast.
- Falafel:
You may locate specialty falafel shops in any city,
town, or village because falafel is so well-known in Syria. Instead of
making falafel at home, Syrians frequently purchase it already prepared.
This delicious sandwich is served with lettuce, tomato, pickles, tahina,
and unique sauces.
Syrian main dishes
In Syria, every meal is meticulously prepared to have the ideal
flavor and aesthetic appeal. Fresh ingredients, flavorful spices, and meals
that are constantly packed with flavor characterize Syrian cuisine. Such
amazing meals are: Yabrak, Sheikh Al-Mahshi, Kabab, Shish Barak,
Al-Mujadara, Grilled Kibbeh, and many more dishes that you should not miss!
Syria is a country rich in culture and history. There is a lot to
see and do, from the historic mosques and churches to the fantastic restaurants
and nightlife.
In this article, we shared some of our thoughts and suggestions
for must-try destinations and activities in Syria. The country remains one of
the world's top nations for tourists despite years of conflict.