Syria, often referred to as the cradle of civilization, is a land where history comes alive through ancient ruins, medieval castles, and vibrant cities. Despite recent challenges, this Middle Eastern gem offers travelers an unparalleled opportunity to explore thousands of years of human history, from Roman amphitheaters to Byzantine churches and Islamic architecture.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the 60 best places to visit in Syria, showcasing the country’s remarkable cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality that has endured through millennia.
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Ancient Cities and Historical Marvels in Syria
Syria’s landscape is dotted with remarkably preserved ancient cities that offer a window into the past. These archaeological wonders have survived for millennia and continue to captivate visitors with their grandeur and historical significance.
The magnificent ruins of Palmyra, once a thriving oasis city in the Syrian desert
1. Palmyra
Often called the “Bride of the Desert,” Palmyra stands as one of Syria’s most iconic archaeological sites. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was once a thriving oasis city and a vital stop on the Silk Road. Dating back to the 2nd century AD, Palmyra’s well-preserved Roman ruins include the Temple of Bel, the Colonnade, and the Valley of Tombs. The site’s unique blend of Greco-Roman and Persian architectural influences makes it an extraordinary testament to the cultural exchanges that shaped ancient Syria.
2. Damascus
As one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Damascus offers an unparalleled journey through time. The Old City, enclosed by Roman walls, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can wander through narrow streets that have remained largely unchanged for centuries. The Umayyad Mosque, dating back to the 8th century, stands as one of the most sacred Islamic monuments. Don’t miss the traditional houses with their hidden courtyards, the bustling Al-Hamidiyah Souk, and Straight Street, mentioned in the Bible.
3. Aleppo
Before the recent conflict, Aleppo was Syria’s largest city and a major cultural and commercial hub. The Ancient City of Aleppo, another UNESCO site, features the imposing Citadel that rises dramatically from the city center. Built on a natural hill, this medieval fortress offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. The city’s historic souks, the Great Umayyad Mosque, and traditional hammams reflect Aleppo’s importance as a crossroads of civilizations throughout history.
The imposing Citadel of Aleppo stands as a testament to medieval military architecture
4. Bosra
Located in southern Syria, Bosra is home to one of the world’s best-preserved Roman theaters. Built in the 2nd century AD, this magnificent amphitheater could seat up to 15,000 spectators and is remarkably intact, thanks to a fortress that was built around it during the Middle Ages. The black basalt stone used in construction gives Bosra a distinctive appearance. Beyond the theater, you can explore the remains of Roman baths, colonnaded streets, and early Christian churches.
5. Apamea
Once one of the largest cities in the Roman Empire, Apamea boasts an impressive 2-kilometer-long colonnade street lined with towering columns. Founded in the 3rd century BC, this ancient city flourished as a center of Hellenistic culture. The site offers a glimpse into Roman urban planning with its grand avenue, agora, and theater. The columns, many of which still stand with their distinctive spiral fluting, create a dramatic vista against the Syrian countryside.
Medieval Castles and Fortresses
Syria’s strategic location made it a battleground for various civilizations, resulting in an impressive collection of medieval castles and fortresses that stand as monuments to the country’s turbulent past.
The magnificent Krak des Chevaliers, considered one of the most important preserved medieval castles in the world
6. Krak des Chevaliers
Widely regarded as the finest example of Crusader military architecture, Krak des Chevaliers is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that will take your breath away. Perched on a 650-meter-high hill, this 12th-century fortress features massive walls, towers, and a moat that made it nearly impregnable. The castle’s exceptional state of preservation allows visitors to explore its grand halls, chapel, and ramparts, offering insight into medieval military engineering and daily life.
7. Citadel of Salah Ed-Din
Also known as Saone or Saladin Castle, this fortress is dramatically situated in the mountains near Latakia. Built by the Byzantines and later expanded by the Crusaders, it was famously captured by Saladin in 1188. The castle’s location, surrounded by deep ravines on three sides, made it a formidable defensive position. A massive trench cut into the rock on the fourth side, which visitors cross via a stone bridge, adds to its imposing character.
8. Masyaf Castle
Famous as the headquarters of the Assassins (Hashashin) under their leader Rashid ad-Din Sinan, Masyaf Castle sits atop a hill in western Syria. This fortress gained renewed attention after being featured in the popular video game series “Assassin’s Creed.” The castle’s strategic position and well-preserved structure offer visitors a glimpse into the mysterious order that once struck fear into the hearts of rulers throughout the region.
Sacred and Religious Sites
Syria’s position as a crossroads of civilizations has made it home to numerous significant religious sites representing various faiths, from early Christianity to Islam and unique local traditions.
The magnificent courtyard of the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus, one of the oldest and largest mosques in the world
9. Umayyad Mosque (Damascus)
One of the oldest and largest mosques in the world, the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus stands on a site that has been considered sacred for over 3,000 years. Before the mosque, it housed a temple to the Aramean god Hadad, a Roman temple to Jupiter, and a Christian church dedicated to John the Baptist. The current structure, dating from the early 8th century, features a spacious courtyard, magnificent mosaics, and three minarets. The shrine said to contain the head of John the Baptist is venerated by both Muslims and Christians.
10. Maaloula
Nestled in the Qalamoun Mountains, Maaloula is one of the few places in the world where Aramaic, the language of Jesus Christ, is still spoken. This picturesque village, with houses built into the mountainside, is home to important Christian monasteries including Mar Sarkis (Saint Sergius) and Mar Taqla (Saint Thecla). The monasteries, with their ancient icons and frescoes, attract pilgrims and visitors interested in early Christianity.
11. Saidnaya
Located on a hilltop about 30 kilometers from Damascus, Saidnaya is famous for the Convent of Our Lady of Saidnaya, one of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world. According to tradition, it houses an icon of the Virgin Mary painted by St. Luke the Evangelist. The monastery has been an important pilgrimage site for both Christians and Muslims for centuries, reflecting Syria’s tradition of religious coexistence.
12. Ezra Church
In the town of Ezra in southern Syria stands one of the oldest functioning churches in the world. Built in 515 AD, this Byzantine church dedicated to Saint George has remained largely unchanged for over 1,500 years. Its octagonal design, dome, and well-preserved interior offer a rare glimpse into early Christian architecture and worship practices.
Natural Wonders and Landscapes
Beyond its historical treasures, Syria boasts diverse natural landscapes, from Mediterranean coastlines to desert oases and mountain ranges, offering visitors a chance to experience the country’s natural beauty.
The stunning Mediterranean coastline near Latakia offers beautiful beaches and scenic views
13. Latakia Coastline
Syria’s Mediterranean coast near Latakia features beautiful beaches, clear waters, and scenic landscapes. The coastline stretches for about 183 kilometers, offering everything from sandy beaches to rocky coves. Popular spots include Ras al-Basit, with its crescent-shaped bay, and the Blue Beach (Al-Azraq), known for its fine sand and clear waters. The coastal mountains rising behind the shore add to the dramatic scenery.
14. Qalamoun Mountains
This mountain range in western Syria provides a stark contrast to the country’s desert regions. With peaks reaching over 2,000 meters, the Qalamoun Mountains offer cooler temperatures, forested slopes, and spectacular views. The mountains are home to traditional villages, ancient monasteries, and hiking trails that allow visitors to experience Syria’s natural beauty and rural life.
15. Al Jaboul Salt Lake
Located southeast of Aleppo, Al Jaboul is Syria’s largest salt lake. This shallow, seasonal lake creates a striking landscape, especially during dry periods when salt crystals form patterns on the lakebed. The area attracts various bird species, including flamingos during migration seasons, making it a spot of interest for birdwatchers and nature photographers.
16. Euphrates River Valley
The mighty Euphrates, one of the defining rivers of ancient Mesopotamia, flows through eastern Syria, creating a fertile valley that has supported human civilization for millennia. The river valley offers scenic landscapes, agricultural terraces, and archaeological sites that tell the story of humanity’s earliest settled communities.
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Historic Cities and Towns
Beyond the major ancient sites, Syria is home to numerous historic cities and towns that offer authentic cultural experiences and insights into the country’s rich heritage.
The famous wooden waterwheels (norias) of Hama on the Orontes River date back to the Byzantine era
17. Hama
Famous for its massive wooden waterwheels (norias) that date back to the Byzantine era, Hama offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Syrian life. These impressive waterwheels, some reaching 20 meters in diameter, were used to raise water from the Orontes River to aqueducts that supplied water to the city and surrounding fields. The sound of the creaking wheels as they turn has earned them the nickname “the groaning wheels of Hama.” The city also features traditional houses, mosques, and a vibrant old market.
18. Homs
Syria’s third-largest city, Homs has played an important role throughout the country’s history. The city center features the Great Mosque of al-Nuri, built in the 12th century on the site of a former Byzantine church. Nearby is the Church of Saint Mary of the Holy Belt, which houses a relic believed to be a piece of the Virgin Mary’s girdle. Homs is also known for its traditional crafts and cuisine.
19. Tartus
This coastal city features a well-preserved old town with a Crusader-era cathedral that now houses the National Museum of Tartus. The museum’s collection includes archaeological finds from the region, particularly from the ancient Phoenician city of Amrit nearby. Tartus is also the gateway to Arwad Island, the only inhabited island in Syria, which features a Crusader fortress and traditional boat-building workshops.
20. Daraa
Located in southern Syria near the border with Jordan, Daraa is known for its historical significance and natural beauty. The surrounding area features canyons, waterfalls, and green hills that contrast with Syria’s more arid regions. The city itself contains Roman ruins and traditional architecture that reflects its position at the crossroads of ancient trade routes.
Lesser-Known Archaeological Treasures
While sites like Palmyra receive much attention, Syria is home to numerous lesser-known archaeological treasures that offer equally fascinating insights into the region’s rich history.
The ruins of Dura-Europos, often called the “Pompeii of the Syrian Desert,” reveal a multicultural ancient city
21. Dura-Europos
Often called the “Pompeii of the Syrian Desert,” Dura-Europos was an ancient city located on the Euphrates River. Founded around 300 BC, it was a frontier outpost where Greco-Roman and Persian cultures met. The site is known for its exceptionally well-preserved ruins, including one of the earliest identified Christian house churches, a synagogue with unique wall paintings, and a Roman military camp. The dry desert climate has helped preserve colorful frescoes that offer rare insights into religious practices of the 3rd century.
22. Ebla
The discovery of Ebla in the 1970s revolutionized our understanding of ancient Syria. This Bronze Age city, dating back to 3000 BC, was unknown to modern scholars until archaeologists unearthed a vast archive of clay tablets that revealed a powerful kingdom with its own language and extensive diplomatic connections. The site features the remains of a royal palace, temples, and city walls that illustrate the sophistication of this early urban center.
23. Ugarit
Located near the Mediterranean coast, Ugarit was an ancient port city that flourished between 1450 and 1200 BC. The site is particularly significant for the discovery of tablets written in an early alphabetic script that represents one of the world’s first alphabets. Ugarit’s ruins include a royal palace, temples, and residential quarters that provide insights into urban planning and daily life in a Bronze Age trading center.
24. Mari
Situated on the Euphrates River near the Iraqi border, Mari was an important city-state during the Bronze Age. Excavations have revealed a magnificent royal palace with over 300 rooms, elaborate wall paintings, and an archive of clay tablets that document diplomatic relations, trade, and administration. The site offers a rare glimpse into the political and economic life of an ancient Mesopotamian city.
Cultural Experiences and Living Traditions
Syria’s rich cultural heritage isn’t confined to ancient stones; it lives on in the country’s vibrant traditions, crafts, cuisine, and music that continue to thrive despite recent challenges.
A craftsman making traditional Aleppo soap, famous worldwide for its natural ingredients and ancient production methods
25. Al-Hamidiyah Souk (Damascus)
This covered market in Damascus is one of the largest and most vibrant in the Middle East. Walking through its main avenue, covered by a metal roof with holes that create beams of light, is a sensory experience. The souk offers everything from spices, textiles, and copper work to traditional sweets and antiques. It’s not just a shopping destination but a living museum where traditional crafts and commerce continue as they have for centuries.
26. Aleppo Soap Workshops
Aleppo is famous for its traditional olive oil soap, considered one of the oldest soap types in the world with a history dating back at least 2,000 years. Visiting a traditional soap workshop allows you to witness the ancient production process, which remains largely unchanged. The soap is made from olive oil and laurel oil, then cut into cubes and stamped with the maker’s seal before being aged for months.
27. Bakdash Ice Cream (Damascus)
Located in the Al-Hamidiyah Souk, Bakdash has been serving its famous Arabic ice cream since 1895. The ice cream is made with sahlab (orchid root flour) and mastic, giving it a unique elastic texture. Watching the ice cream makers pound the mixture with wooden mallets and then roll it in pistachios is part of the experience. This cultural institution attracts locals and visitors alike who queue for a taste of this distinctive treat.
28. Traditional Music Venues
Syria has a rich musical tradition that blends various Middle Eastern styles. In Damascus and Aleppo, traditional cafes and cultural centers offer performances of classical Arabic music, featuring instruments like the oud, qanun, and darbuka. These venues provide an opportunity to experience Syria’s living musical heritage in authentic settings, often in historic buildings with traditional architecture.
Unique Syrian Experiences
Some of Syria’s most memorable attractions don’t fit neatly into categories but offer unique experiences that can’t be found elsewhere.
The distinctive beehive houses near Al Jaboul Lake represent a unique form of desert architecture
29. Beehive Houses (Al Jaboul)
These distinctive mud-brick structures with conical roofs represent a traditional form of desert architecture perfectly adapted to the harsh climate. The thick walls keep interiors cool during hot days and warm during cold nights, while the conical shape helps shed rain and provides structural stability. Though many of these villages have been abandoned, they offer a fascinating glimpse into traditional rural life and sustainable building practices developed over centuries.
30. Aramaic Villages
Besides Maaloula, villages like Sarkha and Jubb’adin are among the few places in the world where Aramaic, the language spoken by Jesus Christ, is still used in daily life. These communities have preserved not only the language but also unique cultural and religious traditions that blend Christian practices with local customs. Visiting these villages offers a rare opportunity to hear a language that was once the lingua franca of the Middle East.
31. Desert Oases
Syria’s desert regions are dotted with oases that have supported life for thousands of years. Places like Palmyra and Deir ez-Zor developed around natural springs that created green havens in the arid landscape. These oases, with their date palms, gardens, and traditional irrigation systems, demonstrate how human ingenuity has adapted to challenging environments throughout history.
32. Traditional Hammams
Public bathhouses have been an important part of Middle Eastern culture for centuries. Historic cities like Damascus and Aleppo are home to traditional hammams that date back hundreds of years, featuring domed chambers, marble floors, and elaborate decoration. These hammams continue to function as both bathing facilities and social spaces, offering visitors an authentic cultural experience.
More Fascinating Syrian Destinations
Syria’s rich tapestry of historical and cultural sites extends far beyond the well-known attractions. Here are more remarkable places that showcase the country’s diverse heritage.
The mysterious “Dead Cities” of northern Syria feature remarkably preserved Byzantine-era towns
33-40. The Dead Cities
In northern Syria, between Aleppo and Idlib, lie around 700 abandoned settlements known collectively as the “Dead Cities.” These Byzantine-era towns were mysteriously abandoned between the 8th and 10th centuries and remain remarkably well-preserved due to their remote locations and dry climate. Notable sites include:
33. Serjilla
Perhaps the best-preserved of the Dead Cities, featuring intact houses, baths, and a church dating from the 5th century.
34. Al-Bara
Known for its distinctive pyramid-shaped tombs and well-preserved churches with beautiful stone carvings.
35. Qalb Loze
Home to a magnificent 5th-century church that exemplifies early Christian architecture in Syria.
36. Deir Semaan
The site of Saint Simeon’s pillar, where the famous stylite saint lived atop a column for 37 years.
37. Bakirha
Features a well-preserved church and villa complex showing the prosperity of these Byzantine communities.
38. Mushabbak
Contains one of the earliest basilica-style churches in Syria, dating from the late 5th century.
39. Ruweiha
Known for its two churches and elaborate tomb structures with distinctive architectural elements.
40. Jerada
Features well-preserved residential buildings that offer insights into daily life in Byzantine Syria.
41-48. Euphrates River Sites
The Euphrates River valley contains numerous archaeological sites that document thousands of years of human civilization, from prehistoric settlements to medieval fortresses:
41. Halabiye
A Byzantine fortress city built by Emperor Justinian to guard the Euphrates crossing, featuring impressive walls and towers.
42. Zalabiye
Located opposite Halabiye, this smaller fortress formed part of the Byzantine defensive system along the Euphrates.
43. Rasafeh (Sergiopolis)
An important pilgrimage center in the Byzantine period, known for its well-preserved basilica and city walls.
44. Tell Brak
One of the world’s oldest cities, with remains dating back to 6000 BC, including the famous “Eye Temple” from the 4th millennium BC.
45. Dura-Europos
A Hellenistic, Parthian, and Roman border city with remarkably preserved buildings including an early synagogue and Christian church.
46. Tell Leilan
An ancient city that flourished in the 3rd millennium BC and provides evidence of early urban planning in Mesopotamia.
47. Qasr al-Hayr al-Sharqi
An Umayyad desert palace dating from the 8th century, featuring impressive fortifications and decorative elements.
48. Deir ez-Zor Suspension Bridge
Built in 1927, this elegant bridge spans the Euphrates River and has become a symbol of the city of Deir ez-Zor.
The impressive interior courtyard of Krak des Chevaliers showcases medieval military architecture at its finest
49-56. Coastal Region Attractions
Syria’s Mediterranean coast offers a combination of natural beauty, historic sites, and beach resorts:
49. Ugarit
An ancient port city where one of the world’s first alphabets was developed, featuring royal palaces and temples.
50. Amrit
A Phoenician site featuring a unique temple known as the Maabed, rock-cut tombs, and a stadium dating from the 3rd century BC.
51. Tartus Old City
A well-preserved medieval quarter with Crusader-era buildings, including the Cathedral of Our Lady of Tortosa.
52. Arwad Island
Syria’s only inhabited island, featuring a Crusader fortress and traditional fishing community just off the coast of Tartus.
53. Saladin Castle
A dramatic fortress built on a ridge between two deep ravines, captured by Saladin from the Crusaders in 1188.
54. Latakia Corniche
A popular seaside promenade in Syria’s principal port city, lined with cafes, restaurants, and beaches.
55. Ras al-Basit
A scenic coastal area with beautiful beaches, clear waters, and traditional fishing villages.
56. Slunfeh
A mountain resort in the coastal range, offering cool temperatures, pine forests, and panoramic views of the Mediterranean.
57-60. Cultural and Religious Sites
Syria’s diverse religious heritage has produced remarkable sacred sites representing various faiths:
57. Deir Mar Musa
A dramatic monastery built into a cliff face in the desert north of Damascus, featuring medieval frescoes and a tradition of interfaith dialogue.
58. Khalid ibn al-Walid Mosque (Homs)
A striking mosque with Ottoman architecture, featuring twin minarets and a dome, dedicated to a famous Islamic military commander.
59. Tekiyeh Suleimaniyeh (Damascus)
An Ottoman complex featuring a mosque, madrasa, and public kitchen, with distinctive black and white stone decoration.
60. Monastery of Saint James the Mutilated (Qara)
A rock-cut monastery dating from the 6th century, with ancient chapels carved into the mountainside and beautiful frescoes.
Make Your Syrian Journey a Reality
From ancient ruins to vibrant markets, Syria offers an unparalleled travel experience. Plan your trip with confidence using our trusted travel resources.
Essential Travel Tips for Visiting Syria
While Syria offers incredible cultural and historical experiences, travelers should be well-prepared and informed before planning a visit.
Exploring Damascus with a knowledgeable local guide enhances the experience and provides cultural context
Safety Considerations
Check your country’s travel advisories before planning a trip. Most travelers visit Syria with organized tours that handle permits and logistics. Working with reputable local agencies is essential for both safety and access to sites.
Visa Requirements
Most visitors need to arrange visas in advance through Syrian embassies or consulates. The process may take several weeks, so plan accordingly. Tour operators can often assist with visa applications.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer the most pleasant weather for exploring. Summer can be extremely hot, especially in desert regions, while winter brings rain and occasionally snow in mountainous areas.
Local Customs and Etiquette
Syria is a conservative country. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Ask permission before photographing people. Learning a few Arabic phrases will be appreciated by locals.
Currency and Payments
The Syrian pound is the official currency. Credit cards and ATMs may not be widely available, so bring sufficient cash. Some places accept US dollars or euros for larger purchases.
Connectivity
Internet access can be limited or unreliable. Consider purchasing an eSIM or international roaming plan before your trip to stay connected, especially for navigation and emergency communication.
Conclusion: The Timeless Appeal of Syria
Syria’s extraordinary wealth of historical sites, cultural traditions, and natural beauty makes it one of the world’s most fascinating destinations. From the ancient ruins of Palmyra to the medieval streets of Damascus, from crusader castles to desert oases, the country offers experiences that connect visitors with thousands of years of human civilization.
While recent challenges have affected tourism, Syria’s cultural heritage endures, waiting to be rediscovered by travelers seeking authentic experiences beyond the usual tourist trails. The warmth and hospitality of the Syrian people, combined with the country’s remarkable historical treasures, create memories that last a lifetime.
As you plan your journey to explore the best places to visit in Syria, remember that you’re not just witnessing history—you’re becoming part of the ongoing story of one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited regions, a land where past and present exist side by side in a unique cultural tapestry.
