Syria History / What should I shop for in Syria as a tourist?

December,05 2022

What should I shop for in Syria as a tourist?

 

Shopping in Syria, especially Damascus, is incredibly amusing because of all the people and street hassle, which creates a scene of variety and affordability for everyone, regardless of financial situation. Souks, or local markets, are where you may get anything you need, from household products and electrical equipment to souvenirs and handicrafts.

In our essay, we'll go over a few items and buying norms that you should absolutely take into account while visiting Syria. You'll be astonished by how lovely and wealthy those souks are!

 

Visit our tourist destinations programs and learn more about Syria's rich history.

 

Table of content: 

1. what souks should you buy from when shopping in Syria?
2. What to buy in Aleppo?
3. What should I buy from Damascus?
4. What are the shopping norms in Syria?
5. What are the traditional Syrian gifts?
6. What are the best souvenirs I can get from shopping in Syria?

 

what souks should you buy from when shopping in Syria?

Syria's shops have withstood thousands of years of many civilizations, including the Greco-Romans, Muslims, Crusaders, Mongols, Ottomans, and French, as well as the modern Arab age. Although there are many different things to buy when shopping at those souks, Syria is best renowned for its gorgeous fabrics and Arabesque furniture adorned with mother-of-pearl.

The souks are diverse and welcoming to people of all backgrounds and cultures.

 

The most well-known ones can be found in Aleppo and Damascus at places like Al-Hamidiyah, Midhat Pasha souq, Takiyya Suleimaniah, and many others. Al-Madina Souk, Souq al Shouna, and Sebastian are important stores in Aleppo that sell some of the most exquisite textiles in the nation.

 

What to buy in Aleppo?

 

Shopping in Syria, especially in Aleppo can be a great experience Because of the city's strategic location for trade, people of all racial and religious backgrounds came to live there to take advantage of the commercial avenues that assemble there from China to the east, Europe to the west, and Egypt to the south.

Al-Madina Souk

The most well-known souq in Aleppo is known as Al-Madina Souk, which dates back to the fourteenth century. Unfortunately, most of this souk was damaged during the conflict, but it has since recovered and is once again drawing visitors from all across Syria.

It is situated in the heart of the old city and is a distinctive piece of architecture. It has been the world's longest continuously operating covered market since its founding. The market's retail stores extend for a total of about 13 kilometers. Al-Madina Souq is separated into different sections, each of which offers goods in a specific category.

There, you will have the chance to buy the best items and supplies brought from all parts of Syria and even from abroad. As a foreign tourist, you will appreciate finding fine jewelry that is not only made of gold and silver but also of copper. Additionally, a sizable portion of the shops are found in the fabric souk, which sells high-quality silk fabrics as well as clothing and headwear designed in local fashion.

Souk Al-Saboun

This souk contains the largest supply of soap and cosmetics. There, you may buy natural soap that has been produced locally for more than three centuries. The primary component of the soap is olive oil, which is also combined with plant extracts and essential oils. 

 

Modern markets and shopping centers in Aleppo

On the other hand, Aleppo is renowned for its cutting-edge malls, which are fantastic for both shopping and entertainment. Consider going to Royal Mall, a shopping mall that is open and housed in a contemporary structure with glass siding. Additionally, there are a lot of toy and children's stores.

 

What should I buy from Damascus? 

The capital is a fantastic destination to shop and is known for having a ton of shopping areas. It is simple to get lost in the shops’ abundance of goods and fantastic items.

Souk Al Hamidiya

When you are shopping in Syria, consider visiting Al-Hamidiyah market— it is one of the largest shopping districts in Damascus. It is a large, covered shop that is situated on a lovely, old street. Many unusual items are available for purchase here. Rare spices, handicrafts, fashionable jewelry made by local artisans, damascus steel knives, as well as lovely clothing and footwear in traditional designs, are all sold there. Women are always drawn to cosmetics made with olive oil. 

There are also several patisseries and restaurants in the marketplace where you may try and purchase well-known local sweets, such as Al Bakdash, which is renowned for its delicious handmade ice cream!

Souk Al Bizuria

Bizuria market might end up being a fantastic location for food shopping. Because the prices are consistently reasonable, locals love to shop there. Cooks agree that this market has the best selection of spices in the area.

Al Takiyya Sulaymaniyah

The Takiyya Sulaymaniyah market is a wonderful spot to go. They provide exceptionally exquisite gold and silver goods for sale at tempting discounts. Because there are so many intriguing ancient items on the shelves, this shop is a favorite among antiquarians.

Modern markets and shopping centers in Damascus

European-style shopping centers in Damascus are very common as well. The Qassion Mall is a gorgeous shopping center. It consists of apparel and shoe stores as well as jewelry shops. The Damasquino Mall is another up-to-date and stunning shopping complex. It's a pleasant area for strolling around while looking for new clothes, cosmetics, and fragrances.

 

Closing times

The souks are closed on Friday, except for the Christian district, where they close on Sunday.

 

What are the shopping morms in Syria?

One important thing you have to remember is that bargaining is prevalent in the Syrian souk. Travelers will need to be at the top of their game because local traders are very proficient in that. However, keep in mind that most sellers do not have bad intent, and that most of the time, negotiating done in a friendly and enjoyable manner will provide much better results.

 

What are the traditional Syrian gifts?

While visiting Syria, there are a few products that should unquestionably be taken into account. These goods consist of locally produced valuable and semi-precious stones like mother of pearl, lacquered chess sets made of wood, gold and silver jewelry, and hand woven traditional fabrics.

Candy is offered in elegantly adorned gift boxes or by the weight. It includes authentic sweets, lokum, and baklava. 

The Saroujah district's streets, which are lined with pawnshops and antique shops, will appeal to lovers of antiquities. Antique utensils and works of art are particularly well-liked as sentimental presents.

 

What are the best souvenirs I can get when shopping in Syria?

The most precious souvenir you can bring back from Syria is the gorgeous jewelry you can purchase at Al Tekkiye al Sulaymaniyah or at the goldsmiths' market in Al Hamidiyah, close to the southern gate of the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus.

 

Our team at SyriaLink will help you select the gifts and presents you wish to buy for your family and friends back home and will point out the best stores to visit for souvenirs and must-have antiques.