Damascus 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Damascus Itinerary:

This itinerary is purely hypothetical. Due to the ongoing conflict and instability in Syria, travel to Damascus is currently highly inadvisable.

Day 1:

  • Arrival & Old City Exploration: Arrive in Damascus (hypothetically!), check into your hotel in the heart of the Old City (like the charming Beit Rumi Hotel, a traditional guesthouse offering a taste of local life).
  • Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the historic Old City of Damascus, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through its labyrinthine alleyways, explore the vibrant Souk al-Hamidiyeh market, and marvel at the ancient architecture like the Umayyad Mosque and the Khan Asaad Pasha, a stunning 18th century caravanserai.
  • Dinner: Enjoy traditional Syrian cuisine at Al-Sham Restaurant in the Old City, known for its delicious mezze platters and warm atmosphere.

Day 2:

  • Morning: Visit the National Museum of Damascus, home to a fascinating collection of artifacts spanning centuries of Syrian history.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Citadel of Damascus, an ancient fortress offering panoramic views of the city. Wander through the National Museum’s gardens, a peaceful oasis amidst the bustling Old City.

Day 3:

  • Morning: Stroll down Straight Street in the Old City, soaking up the history and architecture of this ancient Roman road.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Az-Zaynab Mosque and the Tomb of Saladin, learning about the city’s rich Crusader and Islamic past.

Day 4:

  • Day trip to Maaloula & Saidnaya: Explore the unique history of these two villages, where Aramaic - the language of Jesus - is still spoken today.
  • Visit the Monastery of St. Sergius & Bacchus: Experience ancient religious traditions in a beautiful setting.
  • Enjoy a traditional Syrian meal at a local restaurant in Maaloula or Saidnaya.

Day 5:

  • Morning: Travel to the Old City of Damascus (Damascus) and explore the National Shrine of St. John the Baptist, where you can learn about the ancient history of Christianity in the region.

Day 6:

  • Afternoon: Discover the historic houses of the Old Damascus and their beautiful courtyards, traditional architecture and unique charm.
  • Explore the bustling Souk al-Souq (the main market) and wander through its narrow alleyways filled with shops selling spices, textiles, and other local goods.

Day 7:

  • Departure: Depart from Damascus (again, hypothetically!), reminiscing about your journey through this ancient city.**

Things to know:

  • Damascus is a hypothetical destination in this itinerary due to the current conflict. It’s crucial to check travel advisories and prioritize safety when considering travel plans.
  • Aramaic history: Damascus has a rich history, and it’s worth noting that the city itself is believed to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.

Things to do:

  • Experience the local culture:

    • Wander through the historic markets like Souk al-Madina (Damascus) and explore the local crafts, spices, and cuisine.
    • Visit the Citadel of Damascus, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for stunning views and historical insights.
    • Explore the ancient ruins of the Alawite Mosque in Damascus (with respect for the religious site).

  • Food & Drink:

    • Enjoy traditional Syrian cuisine:

      • Sample delicious mezzes, small plates of various dishes, at the many restaurants and cafes in the city.

  • Try local delicacies:

      * Savor a "**shawarma"** from the street vendors, a classic Syrian dish.

  • Visit the National Museum’s cafe or enjoy a meal at a nearby restaurant.

Aramaic language & history:

  • Explore the historical and cultural significance of Aramaic:
    • Visit the ancient city’s historical sites. The presence of Aramaic, a Semitic language spoken by early Christians, speaks to the enduring legacy of Christianity in the region.
  • Experience the rich flavors and textures of traditional Syrian cuisine at the Alawite and Christian-owned “Al-Sham Restaurant” (hypothetically, again!)

Stay:

  • Stay safe: Always remember that safety should be your top priority when traveling. It’s crucial to research the current situation in Syria before booking any trips.

  • Explore the local markets:

    • The Alawite and Old City offers a variety of accommodation options, from traditional guesthouses like “Beit Rumi Restaurant” (hypothetically!) to modern hotels.

Other things to consider:

  • Pack for all seasons: Damascus experiences hot summers and cold winters. Pack light clothing for the summer months and layers for cooler weather.
  • Respect local customs: As a culturally significant city, it’s important to be mindful of local traditions.
  • Travel insurance: Always get travel insurance that covers your destination and planned activities.