SYRIA MARMARITA CARNIVAL 8-DAY GROUP TOUR
About Trip
This 8-day journey offers a rich mix of history, culture, and real-life encounters across Syria. You’ll explore ancient cities like Damascus, Aleppo, and Palmyra, walk through post-war neighborhoods, and discover hidden villages tucked between mountains and valleys. Along the way, you’ll meet artisans, taste local wines, relax in traditional baths, and share meals with welcoming families. With each stop, you’ll dive deeper into Syria’s past and present—through its food, its people, and its unforgettable stories.
Trip Highlights
- Visit war-affected areas and hear local stories
- Taste wines in family vineyards
- Hike ancient ruins in the semi-desert
- Experience the lively Marmarita Carnival
- Relax in a traditional hammam
- Discover hidden corners and stunning views
- Watch artisans craft mosaics and Aleppo soap
- Share homecooked meals with locals
- Enjoy Damascus nightlife in cafés and bars
DAY 1
- Pick-up from Beirut and drive to Damascus (approx. 3–4 hours including border)
- Hotel check-in and a short rest
- Afternoon walking tour through the Old City: explore Christian and Jewish quarters
- Visit Ananias Church and traditional Damascene houses
- Evening walk through the food street
- Tea or coffee at Nofara or Qishleh—Damascus’ iconic old cafés
- Optional: experience a traditional bath (hammam) or have a drink in a local bar
DAY 2
- Breakfast followed by a morning visit to Ghouta, a suburb hit hard by the war
- Meet locals and see the destruction and resilience of the community
- Back to the city for a visit to the National Museum and the old Hijaz railway station
- Walk through Umayyad Mosque and the bustling Al-Hamidiyah Souq
- Discover caravanserais, old merchant homes, and craft shops
- Free time in the evening: dinner at a local restaurant, drinks at a bar, or a relaxing walk in the alleys
- Morning visit to Sednaya Prison, one of Syria’s most infamous prisons—learn its dark history
- Head to Maaloula, the scenic mountain village where Aramaic is still spoken
- Visit one of the world’s oldest churches, and enjoy a tasting of Maaloula’s local wine
- Continue to Homs, visit the Khalid Ibn al-Walid Mosque, a key figure in Islamic history
- Stop at the Church of the Holy Belt, one of the most important Christian relics in Syria
- Quick stroll through Homs’ old market
- Evening arrival in Aleppo
DAY 4
- Visit the famous Citadel of Aleppo, one of the oldest and largest castles in the world
- Walk through the ancient covered souks, alleys, and traditional homes
- Visit Sisi House, a restored example of Aleppine architecture
- Tour an 800-year-old soap factory still using traditional methods
- Lunch in a local restaurant—Aleppo is Syria’s food capital!
- Enjoy sunset views over the Citadel and free time in the evening
DAY 5
Idlib, Dead Cities, Hama & Krak des Chevaliers
- Depart Aleppo and drive through Idlib, known for its key role in the Syrian war
- Visit local refugee tents, sip tea, and hear powerful stories of displacement
- Continue to the Dead Cities: ancient abandoned villages like Serjilla and Bara
- Visit the town of Hama, known for its large wooden waterwheels (norias)
- Lunch with a local family in the Valley of the Christians, near Krak des Chevaliers
- Visit a local winery—taste traditional and blue wine
- Overnight stay in the peaceful village of Mishtaya
DAY 6
- Early departure for the ancient city of Palmyra, the pearl of the Syrian desert
- Explore highlights: the Temple of Bel, the Arch of Triumph, and Roman ruins
- Learn the story of Palmyra’s rise and its modern destruction
- Visit the underground Tomb of the Three Brothers, once used by ISIS as a hideout
- Stop at a Bedouin tent for rest and traditional lunch
- Scenic drive back to Damascus for the night
DAY 7
- Morning trip south to Bosra, once a Roman capital of Arabia
- Visit its stunning black basalt Roman amphitheater, one of the best-preserved in the world
- Return to Damascus for more hidden gems and free time for the evening
INCLUDES
EXCLUDES
FAQ
Is it safe to travel to Syria?
Yes, it is safe to travel to Syria, particularly to cities like Damascus, Aleppo, and other principal sights. These areas are considered safe and are popular among tourists. To ensure your safety, our private guide in Syria will accompany you throughout your journey. You can enjoy our Syria tours knowing that your well-being is our top priority. For more information, read our Safety and Security in Syria page.
How can I obtain a visa for Syria?
Most travelers will need a visa to enter Syria—but don’t worry, the process is easier than you might think. Citizens of Lebanon, Jordan, Malaysia, and Mauritania can enter visa-free. All other nationalities, though, do need a visa, usually arranged through a local tour operator like us.
Flying directly to Syria?
If you’re flying into Damascus or Aleppo, you need prior security approval before boarding your flight. Once that approval is issued, you’ll get the actual visa upon arrival at the airport.
Coming by land through Lebanon or Jordan?
The process is much more relaxed:
- You’ll get a visa on arrival directly at the border.
- No embassy visits, no pre-application.
- Your passport gets stamped at the Syrian border (in and out).
- And the best part? Visa fees are waived when entering overland—your visa is free!
All you’ll do is fill out a quick form at the border. If you’re traveling with us, your guide will help you through the entire process smoothly.
Our Syria travel guide can help you with this visa process and Syria visa requirements.
How long does it take to get a visa to Syria?
If you’re flying directly to Damascus, you’ll need an initial visa approval before boarding, and we at Syrian Guides can handle that for you. This approval process usually takes 3 to 7 working days. Once approved, the actual visa is stamped on arrival at the airport. For more about visa, visit our Syria Visa Requirements page.
What is the currency exchange rate in Syria?
The current exchange rate in Syria is around 10,000 SYP to 1 USD, but keep in mind that rates can fluctuate frequently. It’s always a good idea to check the latest rate online just before your trip. You can also refer to our Money in Syria page for the most up-to-date info during your city tours.
Any dress code for women in mosques and churches?
In Syria, mosques and churches often provide special attire for visitors, particularly women, to ensure respect for local customs. During our Syria cultural tours, we will guide you on the appropriate dress code to follow.
What are the best places to buy souvenirs in Syria?
Souvenirs can be found in local markets and bazaars such as Souq Al-Hamidiyah in Damascus and Souq Al-Madina in Aleppo. For a more curated shopping experience, consider a Syria private tour or a Syria city tour that includes visits to these markets.
What vaccinations do I need to travel to Syria?
No specific vaccinations are required to travel to Syria. However, it’s always a good idea to consult with a travel clinic for the latest health recommendations. For a safe travel experience, Syria tour packages often include travel insurance.
Can I use credit cards in Syria?
Credit cards are not functional in Syria due to US sanctions. It is best to carry cash in the local currency. For information on managing payments, read our Syria travel guide or Money in Syria page.
Any vegetarian or vegan options available in Syrian restaurants?
Although Syrian cuisine often includes meat and dairy, there are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. Dishes such as falafel, hummus, tabbouleh, and stuffed grape leaves (Warak Enab) are popular choices that cater to vegetarian and vegan diets.
In which cases can’t I visit Syria?
You cannot visit Syria if you have Israel stamp in your passport. Our Syria travel guide can offer more detailed information.
BOOK YOUR TRIP TODAY!
Book your Syria tour today and set the stage for an adventure of a lifetime! Secure your spot now to explore captivating destinations, create lasting memories