SYRIA RAMADAN 8-DAY GROUP TOUR
Guaranteed Departure · $1290 USD
Overview
Experience Ramadan in Syria in the most human way possible — sitting at family tables, talking with shopkeepers, and walking through lantern-lit alleys with a local guide who knows the city by heart.
Over 8 days, we still visit the “big names” — Old Damascus, Maaloula, Homs, Aleppo, Palmyra, Krak des Chevaliers, and Bosra — but we do it through the people who live there: the families who cook for you, the craftsmen who still open their workshops, the young Syrians who share how life feels today.
This is not a rushed bus tour. It’s a slow, people-oriented journey that combines culture, heritage, cuisine, and living history with everyday encounters: breaking the fast with locals, listening to stories over tea, and seeing how Syrians actually live Ramadan in 2026.
Trip Highlights
Meet Your Guide
Bashar Jrekous — Founder & Tour Guide
Meet Bashar, a man of many talents. As an interpreter for the Syrian Parliament, he bridges communication gaps between global politicians. Beyond his parliamentary duties, he transforms into a passionate tour guide, unveiling the hidden gems of his beloved country.
Known for his love of learning and reading, Bashar brings a wealth of knowledge to his tours. His deep affection for Syria shines through as he speaks about its rich history, landscapes, and diverse people. Nicknamed “Syrian George Clooney”, Bashar is not only knowledgeable but also charming and elegant, reflecting his perfectionist nature through impeccable dressing.
As an organized and honest guide, Bashar tailors tours to clients’ interests, constantly seeking innovative ways to showcase Syria’s beauty and culture. His dedication has earned him a loyal following, with clients praising his professionalism and passion for the country. In the face of challenges, Bashar sees his role as vital in portraying the real Syria, beyond media portrayals.
Itinerary at a Glance
- Day 1: Arrival in Damascus — Old City Walking Tour
Day 2: Full Damascus Exploration — Souqs, Umayyad Mosque & Ramadan Evenings
Day 3: Sednaya — Maaloula — Homs — Arrival in Aleppo
Day 4: Aleppo Old City — Citadel, Souqs, Artisan Workshops
Day 5: Idlib Region — Hama Norias — Krak des Chevaliers — Local Winery
Day 6: Palmyra — Desert Ruins, Oasis Spring & Return to Damascus
Day 7: Bosra — Roman Theatre & Southern Countryside
Day 8: Damascus — Final Walks, Souvenirs & Departure to Beirut
This is the rhythm of your journey: a balance of iconic sites, desert landscapes, countryside, and old-city evenings.
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Damascus
- Pickup in Beirut at 9 AM; scenic 3-hour drive to Damascus with full border assistance.
- Check into your Old City guesthouse and settle into its traditional Damascene courtyard.
- Walk through the Old City and feel the early Ramadan atmosphere as lanterns and decorations appear.
- Visit St. Ananias Church and explore surrounding alleys filled with lived history.
- Stop at a mosaic and mother-of-pearl workshop to see traditional craftsmanship.
- Walk along Straight Street, the oldest functioning Roman street in Damascus.
- See Bab Sharqi (Eastern Gate) and learn its history dating back to 200 AD.
- Explore the Jewish Quarter and an art gallery inside a former Jewish palace.
- View the Roman Victory Arch near Mariamite Cathedral and visit a Damascene art workshop.
- Enjoy evenings in the Old City: cafés, tea at Nofara, and a traditional hammam.
Day 1
Arrival in Damascus
- Pickup in Beirut at 9 AM; scenic 3-hour drive to Damascus with full border assistance.
- Check into your Old City guesthouse and settle into its traditional Damascene courtyard.
- Walk through the Old City and feel the early Ramadan atmosphere as lanterns and decorations appear.
- Visit St. Ananias Church and explore surrounding alleys filled with lived history.
- Stop at a mosaic and mother-of-pearl workshop to see traditional craftsmanship.
- Walk along Straight Street, the oldest functioning Roman street in Damascus.
- See Bab Sharqi (Eastern Gate) and learn its history dating back to 200 AD.
- Explore the Jewish Quarter and an art gallery inside a former Jewish palace.
- View the Roman Victory Arch near Mariamite Cathedral and visit a Damascene art workshop.
- Enjoy evenings in the Old City: cafés, tea at Nofara, and a traditional hammam.
Day 2
Full Day in Damascus
- Begin with a Damascene breakfast at your guesthouse.
- Start the tour with Ghouta, the destroyed part of Damascus and listen to stories of resilience.
- Visit Nairabein Park for a panoramic city view and orientation.
- Explore the National Museum, home to the first alphabet and first musical note.
- Pass the historic Hijaz Railway Station, once serving pilgrims to Mecca.
- Walk through Hamidiyah Souq, taste tamarind juice, and stop for Bagdash ice cream.
- Visit the Umayyad Mosque, a major site during Ramadan evenings.
- Explore Azm Palace & Ass’ad Pasha Caravansarai, an outstanding example of traditional Damascene architecture.
- Walk through Bzuriyeh Spice Market and its 300-year-old caravanserai; coffee/tea break inside.
- Visit artisan workshops for copper, kilim weaving, Damascene steel, and Ajami art.
- Sunset Views: End your day by watching the sunset from a rooftop, where the view of the old city is simply unforgettable.
- Nightlife: experience Damascus’ unique nightlife—whether it’s live concerts, cozy bars, or a traditional bath, there’s something for everyone!
Day 2
Full Day in Damascus
- Begin with a Damascene breakfast at your guesthouse.
- Start the tour with Ghouta, the destroyed part of Damascus and listen to stories of resilience.
- Visit Nairabein Park for a panoramic city view and orientation.
- Explore the National Museum, home to the first alphabet and first musical note.
- Pass the historic Hijaz Railway Station, once serving pilgrims to Mecca.
- Walk through Hamidiyah Souq, taste tamarind juice, and stop for Bagdash ice cream.
- Visit the Umayyad Mosque, a major site during Ramadan evenings.
- Explore Azm Palace & Ass’ad Pasha Caravansarai, an outstanding example of traditional Damascene architecture.
- Walk through Bzuriyeh Spice Market and its 300-year-old caravanserai; coffee/tea break inside.
- Visit artisan workshops for copper, kilim weaving, Damascene steel, and Ajami art.
- Sunset Views: End your day by watching the sunset from a rooftop, where the view of the old city is simply unforgettable.
- Nightlife: experience Damascus’ unique nightlife—whether it’s live concerts, cozy bars, or a traditional bath, there’s something for everyone!
Day 3
Sednaya • Maaloula • Homs • Aleppo
- Drive north with a contextual stop outside Sednaya Prison for historical insight.
- Continue to Maaloula, one of the last villages where Aramaic (the language of Jesus) is still spoken.
- Explore the Monastery of Saints Sergius & Bacchus (1,700 years old).
- Enjoy coffee or tea at a Maaloula rooftop café with mountain views.
- Visit local shops offering handmade goods and taste monastery-produced wine.
- Walk through the gorge associated with Saint Thecla and visit her ancient monastery and shrine.
- Continue to Homs for lunch in a traditional local restaurant.
- Visit the Church of the Holy Belt and its underground sanctuary dating back to 59 AD.
- Walk through the restored old souq and observe surrounding war-affected areas.
- Visit the Khalid ibn al-Walid Mosque and learn about its historical significance.
- Arrive in Aleppo, check into the hotel, and enjoy dinner.
- Overnight in Aleppo.
Day 3
Sednaya • Maaloula • Homs • Aleppo
- Drive north with a contextual stop outside Sednaya Prison for historical insight.
- Continue to Maaloula, one of the last villages where Aramaic (the language of Jesus) is still spoken.
- Explore the Monastery of Saints Sergius & Bacchus (1,700 years old).
- Enjoy coffee or tea at a Maaloula rooftop café with mountain views.
- Visit local shops offering handmade goods and taste monastery-produced wine.
- Walk through the gorge associated with Saint Thecla and visit her ancient monastery and shrine.
- Continue to Homs for lunch in a traditional local restaurant.
- Visit the Church of the Holy Belt and its underground sanctuary dating back to 59 AD.
- Walk through the restored old souq and observe surrounding war-affected areas.
- Visit the Khalid ibn al-Walid Mosque and learn about its historical significance.
- Arrive in Aleppo, check into the hotel, and enjoy dinner.
- Overnight in Aleppo.
Day 4
Aleppo: The Timeless City
- Enjoy a hotel breakfast featuring Mamouniyeh, Aleppo’s signature sweet.
- Visit the Aleppo Citadel, the city’s most iconic historical site.
- Explore the 800-year-old souks, including restored and war-scarred sections.
- Tour a 900-year-old Aleppo soap factory and meet local craftsmen.
- Walk through narrow alleys, meeting residents and hearing their stories.
- Lunch in a centuries-old Aleppine guesthouse full of artifacts and history.
- Explore Jdeideh Quarter, including the Maronite Church and community heritage.
- Visit Hattab Square, once famous for its citadel views.
- Sunset stop at a high viewpoint overlooking Aleppo and the Citadel.
- Dinner at a traditional Armenian restaurant, with optional Arak tasting.
Day 4
Aleppo: The Timeless City
- Enjoy a hotel breakfast featuring Mamouniyeh, Aleppo’s signature sweet.
- Visit the Aleppo Citadel, the city’s most iconic historical site.
- Explore the 800-year-old souks, including restored and war-scarred sections.
- Tour a 900-year-old Aleppo soap factory and meet local craftsmen.
- Walk through narrow alleys, meeting residents and hearing their stories.
- Lunch in a centuries-old Aleppine guesthouse full of artifacts and history.
- Explore Jdeideh Quarter, including the Maronite Church and community heritage.
- Visit Hattab Square, once famous for its citadel views.
- Sunset stop at a high viewpoint overlooking Aleppo and the Citadel.
- Dinner at a traditional Armenian restaurant, with optional Arak tasting.
Day 5
Idlib • Hama • Krak des Chevaliers
- Scenic morning drive through Idlib province toward Hama.
- Visit Hama’s ancient norias along the Orontes River and stroll riverside walkways.
- Meet friendly locals known for their warm hospitality and storytelling.
- Lunch boxes provided to maximize sightseeing time.
- Continue into Wadi al-Nasara (Valley of the Christians).
- Visit Krak des Chevaliers, one of the world’s best-preserved Crusader castles.
- Drive to Ba’eet village for a home-cooked meal with a local family.
- Visit a local winery for a tasting session.
- Arrive in Al-Mishtaya for hotel check-in.
- Optional evening drinks at Le Mond Café or a quiet village stroll.
Day 5
Idlib • Hama • Krak des Chevaliers
- Scenic morning drive through Idlib province toward Hama.
- Visit Hama’s ancient norias along the Orontes River and stroll riverside walkways.
- Meet friendly locals known for their warm hospitality and storytelling.
- Lunch boxes provided to maximize sightseeing time.
- Continue into Wadi al-Nasara (Valley of the Christians).
- Visit Krak des Chevaliers, one of the world’s best-preserved Crusader castles.
- Drive to Ba’eet village for a home-cooked meal with a local family.
- Visit a local winery for a tasting session.
- Arrive in Al-Mishtaya for hotel check-in.
- Optional evening drinks at Le Mond Café or a quiet village stroll.
Day 6
Palmyra → Return to Damascus
- Drive through the semi-desert toward Palmyra, the “pearl of the desert.”
- Visit the Palmyra Citadel for panoramic views of the ancient city.
- Explore the museum remains and learn about archaeologist Khaled al-Asaad.
- Visit the ruins of the Temple of Bel.
- Walk the Colonnaded Street, Zanobia’s Bath, Theater, and Agora.
- Learn the story of Queen Zenobia and Palmyra’s role on ancient trade routes.
- Enjoy a Bedouin lunch and tea in a desert tent.
- Visit Afqa Spring, essential to ancient Palmyra’s life.
- Enter the underground Tomb of the Three Brothers, once used as ISIS headquarters.
- Return to Damascus with a dinner stop and taste the famous Nabk dessert.
Day 6
Palmyra → Return to Damascus
- Drive through the semi-desert toward Palmyra, the “pearl of the desert.”
- Visit the Palmyra Citadel for panoramic views of the ancient city.
- Explore the museum remains and learn about archaeologist Khaled al-Asaad.
- Visit the ruins of the Temple of Bel.
- Walk the Colonnaded Street, Zanobia’s Bath, Theater, and Agora.
- Learn the story of Queen Zenobia and Palmyra’s role on ancient trade routes.
- Enjoy a Bedouin lunch and tea in a desert tent.
- Visit Afqa Spring, essential to ancient Palmyra’s life.
- Enter the underground Tomb of the Three Brothers, once used as ISIS headquarters.
- Return to Damascus with a dinner stop and taste the famous Nabk dessert.
Day 7
Bosra → Damascus (Final Night)
- Drive south through the fertile Horan plain toward Bosra.
- Explore the Roman Theater, one of the best preserved in the world.
- Walk Bosra’s basalt-stone Straight Street and ancient residential areas.
- Visit the Nabatean Arch, oldest mosque in Syria, and early churches.
- Explore Mamluk baths, ancient marketplaces, and underground passages.
- Visit the oldest octagonal church with its pioneering dome structure.
- See the Monastery of Monk Bahira and nearby ruins.
- Visit a 2,000-year-old Roman bath with advanced heating systems.
- Enjoy a traditional lunch hosted by a local family in Bosra.
- Return to Damascus for a final Ramadan evening in the Old City.
Day 7
Bosra → Damascus (Final Night)
- Drive south through the fertile Horan plain toward Bosra.
- Explore the Roman Theater, one of the best preserved in the world.
- Walk Bosra’s basalt-stone Straight Street and ancient residential areas.
- Visit the Nabatean Arch, oldest mosque in Syria, and early churches.
- Explore Mamluk baths, ancient marketplaces, and underground passages.
- Visit the oldest octagonal church with its pioneering dome structure.
- See the Monastery of Monk Bahira and nearby ruins.
- Visit a 2,000-year-old Roman bath with advanced heating systems.
- Enjoy a traditional lunch hosted by a local family in Bosra.
- Return to Damascus for a final Ramadan evening in the Old City.
Day 8
Departure to Beirut
- Visit remaining sites such as Sayida Ruqayya Shrine, Zahiriya Madrasa, and Old Damascene palaces.
- Walk through the Old City one last time and feel the Ramadan atmosphere.
- Shop in Hamidiyah Souq and Bzuriyeh Spice Market for final souvenirs.
- Enjoy free time around the Umayyad Mosque and nearby bazaars.
- Return to guesthouse for final lunch.
- Prepare for departure and check out.
- Begin the drive back toward the Lebanese border.
- Continue to Beirut in the afternoon at around 2pm.
- Arrival in Beirut city center or airport.
Day 8
Departure to Beirut
- Visit remaining sites such as Sayida Ruqayya Shrine, Zahiriya Madrasa, and Old Damascene palaces.
- Walk through the Old City one last time and feel the Ramadan atmosphere.
- Shop in Hamidiyah Souq and Bzuriyeh Spice Market for final souvenirs.
- Enjoy free time around the Umayyad Mosque and nearby bazaars.
- Return to guesthouse for final lunch.
- Prepare for departure and check out.
- Begin the drive back toward the Lebanese border.
- Continue to Beirut in the afternoon at around 2pm.
- Arrival in Beirut city center or airport.
Where You’ll Stay
Comfort & Services
We deliberately choose guesthouses and characterful, authentic hotels over generic luxury towers. You stay in places that feel rooted in Syrian life — old houses, family-run hotels, countryside villas — but still enjoy comfort, good services, and warm hospitality.
Rooms are typically twin rooms, and if you prefer a private room, a single supplement of 260 USD applies.
Meals
Breakfasts and lunches are included every day of the tour. We keep lunches relaxed and local, whether it is a home-cooked meal with a family or a simple restaurant where Syrians themselves like to eat.
Dinners are not included, but we do not leave you alone with the decision. Each evening, your guide suggests tried-and-tested spots that match your mood and budget — from simple grills to atmospheric old-city courtyards.
In Damascus, we often book or recommend places such as Naranj and Dar Misk, along with other favourite local restaurants and street-food stops.
In Aleppo, we like to use long-time favourites such as Cordoba and Wanes, where you can enjoy generous meze, grills, and classic Aleppine dishes in warm surroundings.
Vegetarian options are widely available, and we can accommodate most dietary requirements if you let us know in advance.
What kind of meals to expect
Throughout the tour, you’ll get the chance to enjoy a wide range of authentic Syrian flavours — the same dishes locals grow up eating. Expect comforting breakfasts like fatteh, labneh, olives, fresh bread, eggs, Makdous and seasonal jams, and hearty lunches such as freekeh with chicken, okra stew, grilled kebab, stuffed vine leaves, lentil soups, other local famous dishes and fresh mezze. Your guide also helps you discover street-food favourites along the way: falafel, shawarma, manakish, sfiha pastries, muhammara spreads, Aleppo kebab, barazek cookies, and warm mshabbak sweets. Each region adds its own touch, making every day a small cultural tasting journey.
Ramadan treats & seasonal flavours
If your trip coincides with Ramadan, you’ll also get to experience the special dishes and flavours that appear only this time of year. Expect the smell of ma’arouk (Ramadan sweet bread) in the afternoons, street vendors preparing fresh qatayef filled with cream or nuts, and glasses of jallab, tamarind, and amar al-din being poured everywhere before iftar. In the Old City, families gather around long tables for hearty dishes like fatteh, kibbeh, lentil soups, and roasted meats, followed by warm sweets such as mshabbak and kunafeh. These seasonal tastes bring the evenings to life and offer a beautiful glimpse into how Syrians celebrate and share food during Ramadan.
Transportation
Hyundai County
For our group journeys across Syria, we rely on the Hyundai County—a reliable, smooth, and comfortably designed mid-size bus. Although it can seat up to 25 passengers, we intentionally use it for small groups of 8–12 travelers to ensure extra space, comfort, and a relaxed travel experience.
The interior is spacious with wide cushioned seats, good legroom, and large windows that open the landscape like a moving panorama—ideal for long drives between cities, mountains, and archaeological sites. The ride feels steady and quiet, allowing guests to rest, chat, or simply enjoy the scenery.
Includes & Excludes
INCLUDES
EXCLUDES
Visa & Entry Requirements
If you are entering Syria from Beirut by land, you do not need visa approval in advance — your visa will be issued upon arrival at the border.
If you are flying into Damascus Airport, you must obtain visa pre-approval before travel. This process takes 1–3 weeks, depending on nationality.
Visa fees are paid at the border and vary by passport.
Examples (for reference only):
- EU nationals: around $75 USD
- UK: $150 USD
- USA: $200 USD
- Latin America: $25–$50 USD
(Full list available on our Syria Visa Fees page.)
Your passport will be stamped upon entry, and it must not contain any Israeli stamps or entry records.
When you arrive, your tour guide meets you at the border and assists with all procedures. The process is straightforward, and we walk you through each step.
If you’re unsure whether you need pre-approval or want to confirm your expected visa fee, just ask — we’re happy to advise before booking.
For the most up-to-date and detailed information, please see our dedicated guide:
Safety Information
We design our itineraries around areas that are considered safe for travel and adjust routes if needed. You are always accompanied by a local guide who follows the situation on the ground closely, stays updated with local authorities, and provides transparent briefings so you always know what to expect.
We travel only through well-established routes and stable regions, and we choose accommodations in safe, trusted neighborhoods. Your guide is with you throughout the journey — at sites, in the old cities, and during border procedures — ensuring you feel supported at all times.
Travel Insurance Included
All our group tours include comprehensive travel insurance, giving you peace of mind throughout your journey in Syria. The coverage includes emergency medical care, hospitalization, medical evacuation, and essential travel protections such as trip delays and luggage issues.
Your insurance certificate is issued automatically after booking — no action needed from your side.
For full coverage details, please read the complete Travel Insurance Policy.
Before You Travel
- Your passport must not contain Israeli stamps or entry records.
- Expect simple security checks at major heritage sites and city entrances.
- Your guide will brief you on local customs, respectful behavior, and safe areas for your free time.
For a deeper, honest look at the situation in Syria, we recommend reading:
If you have any personal concerns, you are always welcome to ask us specific questions before booking.
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?
To get a Syrian visa, travelers flying into the country need to arrange visa approval in advance, which is then followed by receiving the actual visa on arrival at the airport—this step is required before boarding your flight. However, if you’re entering Syria by land from Lebanon or Jordan, the process is much easier: no prior approval or documents are needed, and you simply receive a visa on arrival at the border after paying the visa fees.
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.
How much does a visa to Syria cost?
If you’re arriving by air, here’s what you can expect to pay:
| Nationality | Visa Fee (USD) |
|---|---|
| EU Countries | $75 |
| United Kingdom | $150 |
| United States | $200 |
| Canada | $100 |
| Australia | $150 |
| New Zealand | $150 |
| Brazil | $50 |
These fees apply when entering by air or land. To see the full list of Syria visa fees, click here.
What is the currency exchange rate in Syria?
The current exchange rate in Syria is around 11,000 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?
Popular souvenirs from Syria include traditional crafts like carpets, mosaic art, handmade jewelry, spices, traditional clothing, and Aleppo soap. For unique finds, consider visiting Souq Al-Hamidiyah in Damascus or Souq Al-Madina in Aleppo. To ensure you find the best souvenirs, our Syria private tours often include shopping experiences tailored to your interests.
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 currently not accepted in Syria due to US sanctions. It is advisable to carry cash in the local currency for your Syria travel experiences. Check Money in Syria guide for more information.
Any vegetarian or vegan options available in Syrian restaurants?
Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan options available in Syria. Popular dishes include falafel, hummus, tabbouleh, and stuffed grape leaves (Warak Enab), making Syria food tours a delightful experience. Check our articles about Syrian food.
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.
Will I have free time during the group tour?
Yes. Although the tour follows a well-planned daily program, you will have free time every day, usually in the late afternoon or evening. Your guide clearly indicates when the guided activities end, allowing you to explore on your own, relax at cafés, shop, or simply enjoy the atmosphere at your own pace.
If you ever want suggestions during your free time, your guide is always happy to help.
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