SYRIA 8-DAY CHRISTMAS GROUP TOUR

Christmas in Syria · Guaranteed Departure · $1290 USD

Duration

8 Days

Dates

24–31 Dec, 2026

Price

$1290 USD

Tour Guide

Mary Wakim

Status

Guaranteed Departure

Overview

An enchanting 8-day journey through Syria, immersed in festive Christmas vibes. You explore ancient Damascus, savor Christmas celebrations in the old city, and travel through Syria’s most iconic landmarks — Aleppo’s timeless markets, Hama’s famous waterwheels, the impressive Krak des Chevaliers, and the magical ruins of Palmyra.

This is not a rushed “checklist” trip. We keep the pace human and meaningful — built around atmosphere, stories, crafts, and real encounters — while still covering the essential highlights in a smart, well-structured route.

The heart of the journey is the feeling: candle-lit streets, decorated quarters, church bells, warm meals, rooftop sunsets, and the rare experience of Christmas in Syria — lived, local, and unforgettable.

  • Small Group: 8–10 travelers for a relaxed, personal pace.
  • Guaranteed Departure: Runs even if only one guest books.
  • Direct booking: No third parties, no hidden fees.
  • Comfortable stays: trusted hotels and characterful guesthouses.
  • People-focused: local meals, crafts, and meaningful stops.
  • Meals Included: daily breakfasts and lunches provided.
  • UNESCO Highlights: Palmyra, Bosra, and heritage old cities.
  • Travel Insurance: essential coverage included.

Trip Highlights

Christmas in Syria (MAIN HIGHLIGHT)

A rare, warm celebration in Damascus — decorated streets, old-city atmosphere, and a Christmas night you’ll remember forever.

Old Damascus & Umayyad Mosque

Walk Straight Street, the hidden churches, historic courtyards, and the legendary souks with a local guide.

Aleppo Citadel & Souks

A timeless city of craftsmen and stories — ancient markets, heritage quarters, and one of the Middle East’s greatest citadels.

Krak des Chevaliers

Among the best-preserved crusader castles on earth, overlooking the green Valley of the Christians.

Palmyra

UNESCO desert ruins, colonnades, temples, and the story of Palmyra — the pearl of the Syrian semi-desert.

Bosra Roman Theatre

A world-class Roman amphitheatre built of basalt stone — plus temples, churches, and ancient streets.

Meet Your Guide

Mary Wakim — Tour Guide

Meet Mary, your local guide for this Christmas journey across Syria. She is warm, attentive, and deeply familiar with the stories behind Syria’s cities — from the hidden alleys of Old Damascus to the great landmarks of Aleppo, Palmyra, and Bosra.

Mary’s style is clear and supportive: she keeps the pace comfortable, helps you understand what you’re seeing, and makes sure you always feel guided — not rushed. Guests often highlight the same qualities: calm professionalism, genuine care, and thoughtful attention to details — the kind of guidance that feels less like a rigid “tour” and more like exploring with a very well-informed friend.

During the holiday nights, she also helps you experience the festive atmosphere respectfully and authentically, so the journey feels both safe and deeply human.

mary wakim tour guide 1

Itinerary at a Glance

  • Day 1 (Dec 24): Arrival in Damascus — Old City Walking Tour + Christmas Night
  • Day 2 (Dec 25): Full Damascus Exploration — Souqs, Umayyad Mosque & Rooftop Sunset
  • Day 3 (Dec 26): Maaloula — Homs — Arrival in Aleppo (Two Nights)
  • Day 4 (Dec 27): Aleppo Old City — Citadel, Souqs, Artisan Workshops
  • Day 5 (Dec 28): Idlib Dead Cities — Hama Norias — Krak des Chevaliers — Local Winery
  • Day 6 (Dec 29): Palmyra — Bedouin Lunch Stop — Back to Damascus
  • Day 7 (Dec 30): Bosra — Roman Theatre & Southern Countryside
  • Day 8 (Dec 31): Damascus — Shrines, Crafts, Souvenirs & Free Time — Departure

This is the rhythm of your journey: old cities, living heritage, castles, desert ruins — plus a countryside wine stop — and the unforgettable warmth of Christmas in Syria.

Itinerary

Day 1 (Dec 24)

Arrival in Damascus + Christmas Night

  • Choose your entry point — Beirut (land), Jordan (land), or Damascus Airport (flight).
  • Warm welcome by your guide and smooth assistance with entry procedures (where needed).
  • Transfer to your hotel/guesthouse and an easy check-in process.
  • Short refresh break — settle in and get comfortable after your journey.
  • Gentle walking orientation in Old Damascus to understand the old city layout.
  • Walk along Straight Street, one of the oldest functioning Roman streets in the world.
  • Explore the Christian Quarter and quiet historic alleys around the churches.
  • Visit St. Ananias Chapel and hear the story of early Christianity in Damascus.
  • Pass Damascene courtyard houses and learn how traditional homes were built for privacy and beauty.
  • Experience the lively old-city food street and stop at Nofara Café, Syria’s oldest café.
  • Ascend to a rooftop for a breathtaking sunset over Damascus.
  • Highlight: Christmas night in ancient Damascus — festive streets, warm atmosphere, and a special evening that captures the spirit of the season.

Day 1 (Dec 24)

Arrival in Damascus + Christmas Night

  • Choose your entry point — Beirut (land), Jordan (land), or Damascus Airport (flight).
  • Warm welcome by your guide and smooth assistance with entry procedures (where needed).
  • Transfer to your hotel/guesthouse and an easy check-in process.
  • Short refresh break — settle in and get comfortable after your journey.
  • Gentle walking orientation in Old Damascus to understand the old city layout.
  • Walk along Straight Street, one of the oldest functioning Roman streets in the world.
  • Explore the Christian Quarter and quiet historic alleys around the churches.
  • Visit St. Ananias Chapel and hear the story of early Christianity in Damascus.
  • Pass Damascene courtyard houses and learn how traditional homes were built for privacy and beauty.
  • Experience the lively old-city food street and stop at Nofara Café, Syria’s oldest café.
  • Ascend to a rooftop for a breathtaking sunset over Damascus.
  • Highlight: Christmas night in ancient Damascus — festive streets, warm atmosphere, and a special evening that captures the spirit of the season.

Day 2 (Dec 25)

Full Day in Damascus

  • Start the day with a local breakfast — fresh bread, labneh, olives, eggs, and seasonal jams.
  • Context stop: visit the outskirts / affected areas such as Ghouta with sensitivity and respect.
  • Panoramic orientation from a viewpoint to understand the city’s geography.
  • Explore the National Museum to connect Syria’s deep history in one visit.
  • Pass the historic Hijaz Railway Station and learn about Ottoman-era travel routes.
  • Walk through Al-Hamidiyah Souq and experience the daily rhythm of the bazaar.
  • Visit the Umayyad Mosque, one of the most important Islamic monuments in the world.
  • Step into Azm Palace to see Damascene architecture at its finest.
  • Explore Ass’ad Pasha Caravansarai and nearby historic courtyards and khans.
  • Walk into Bzuriyeh Spice Market for scents, sweets, and local drinks.
  • Lunch break with Syrian classics (vegetarian options always available).
  • End the day with a sunset rooftop view over Old Damascus — unforgettable skyline and atmosphere.

Day 2 (Dec 25)

Full Day in Damascus

  • Start the day with a local breakfast — fresh bread, labneh, olives, eggs, and seasonal jams.
  • Context stop: visit the outskirts / affected areas such as Ghouta with sensitivity and respect.
  • Panoramic orientation from a viewpoint to understand the city’s geography.
  • Explore the National Museum to connect Syria’s deep history in one visit.
  • Pass the historic Hijaz Railway Station and learn about Ottoman-era travel routes.
  • Walk through Al-Hamidiyah Souq and experience the daily rhythm of the bazaar.
  • Visit the Umayyad Mosque, one of the most important Islamic monuments in the world.
  • Step into Azm Palace to see Damascene architecture at its finest.
  • Explore Ass’ad Pasha Caravansarai and nearby historic courtyards and khans.
  • Walk into Bzuriyeh Spice Market for scents, sweets, and local drinks.
  • Lunch break with Syrian classics (vegetarian options always available).
  • End the day with a sunset rooftop view over Old Damascus — unforgettable skyline and atmosphere.

Day 3 (Dec 26)

Maaloula • Homs • Aleppo

  • Begin the northbound journey from Damascus toward the mountains of Maaloula.
  • Enjoy the scenery of houses intricately carved into the mountainside.
  • Visit ancient churches and hear prayers in Aramaic, the language of Jesus Christ.
  • Walk the gorge connected to Saint Thecla and visit her monastery and shrine.
  • Visit the Monastery of Saints Sergius & Bacchus and learn about early Christian traditions.
  • Continue toward Homs, Syria’s third-largest city and a key historical crossroads.
  • Visit the Church of the Holy Belt (Holy Belt of the Virgin Mary), one of the world’s oldest churches.
  • Stop by Khalid ibn al-Walid Mosque (as accessible) for architectural context.
  • Walk through parts of the old market and see the city’s layers of past and present.
  • Lunch stop along the route with local Syrian dishes.
  • Arrive in Aleppo and check-in for a two-night stay.
  • Evening orientation walk — first taste of Aleppo’s atmosphere and local cafés.

Day 3 (Dec 26)

Maaloula • Homs • Aleppo

  • Begin the northbound journey from Damascus toward the mountains of Maaloula.
  • Enjoy the scenery of houses intricately carved into the mountainside.
  • Visit ancient churches and hear prayers in Aramaic, the language of Jesus Christ.
  • Walk the gorge connected to Saint Thecla and visit her monastery and shrine.
  • Visit the Monastery of Saints Sergius & Bacchus and learn about early Christian traditions.
  • Continue toward Homs, Syria’s third-largest city and a key historical crossroads.
  • Visit the Church of the Holy Belt (Holy Belt of the Virgin Mary), one of the world’s oldest churches.
  • Stop by Khalid ibn al-Walid Mosque (as accessible) for architectural context.
  • Walk through parts of the old market and see the city’s layers of past and present.
  • Lunch stop along the route with local Syrian dishes.
  • Arrive in Aleppo and check-in for a two-night stay.
  • Evening orientation walk — first taste of Aleppo’s atmosphere and local cafés.

Day 4 (Dec 27)

Aleppo Tour

  • Start with breakfast and an introduction to why Aleppo is Syria’s great craft and culinary capital.
  • Visit the mighty Aleppo Citadel and learn how it shaped the city for centuries.
  • Walk through the ancient alleys around the citadel and feel the old city’s rhythm.
  • Explore the historic Aleppo Souks, including restored sections and areas that show resilience.
  • Visit an 800-year-old-style soap factory and meet craftsmen who keep the tradition alive.
  • Stop at historic squares and neighborhoods that once formed the city’s social heart.
  • Visit heritage churches / community sites in Jdeideh Quarter (as accessible).
  • Optional: visit Aleppo Museum for deeper context on northern Syria’s history.
  • Lunch in a local restaurant known for classic Aleppine dishes and warm hospitality.
  • Meet locals and hear real stories that give the city a human face.
  • Time for artisan workshops and small family businesses (textiles, crafts, sweets).
  • End with a panoramic viewpoint — a final wide look at the citadel and skyline.

Day 4 (Dec 27)

Aleppo Tour

  • Start with breakfast and an introduction to why Aleppo is Syria’s great craft and culinary capital.
  • Visit the mighty Aleppo Citadel and learn how it shaped the city for centuries.
  • Walk through the ancient alleys around the citadel and feel the old city’s rhythm.
  • Explore the historic Aleppo Souks, including restored sections and areas that show resilience.
  • Visit an 800-year-old-style soap factory and meet craftsmen who keep the tradition alive.
  • Stop at historic squares and neighborhoods that once formed the city’s social heart.
  • Visit heritage churches / community sites in Jdeideh Quarter (as accessible).
  • Optional: visit Aleppo Museum for deeper context on northern Syria’s history.
  • Lunch in a local restaurant known for classic Aleppine dishes and warm hospitality.
  • Meet locals and hear real stories that give the city a human face.
  • Time for artisan workshops and small family businesses (textiles, crafts, sweets).
  • End with a panoramic viewpoint — a final wide look at the citadel and skyline.

Day 5 (Dec 28)

Idlib • Hama • Krak des Chevaliers • Valley of Christians • Local Winery

  • Depart Aleppo and head into Idlib countryside for archaeology and quiet landscapes.
  • Visit Serjilla and Bara, two of Syria’s most remarkable Dead Cities.
  • Walk among stone ruins and hear how these forgotten towns once lived and prospered.
  • Continue to Hama, renowned as the city of waterwheels.
  • See the giant Norias on the Orontes River and enjoy riverside views.
  • Short stroll in the city and time to interact with locals in one of Syria’s friendliest places.
  • Drive toward the green hills of the west and the Valley of Christians.
  • Visit the awe-inspiring Krak des Chevaliers, one of the best-preserved crusader castles in the world.
  • Walk the ramparts, halls, and courtyards while learning the castle’s story.
  • Lunch at a local family house in the Valley of Christians — a warm, home-cooked table and real village hospitality.
  • Local Winery Stop & Wine Tasting in the Valley of Christians — a relaxed countryside visit and a chance to taste Syrian wines in a beautiful setting.
  • Arrive to the peaceful countryside villages (Mishtaya / Marmarita area) for overnight.
  • Evening atmosphere in a Christian village — calm, warm, and perfect after a rich travel day.

Day 5 (Dec 28)

Idlib • Hama • Krak des Chevaliers • Valley of Christians • Local Winery

  • Depart Aleppo and head into Idlib countryside for archaeology and quiet landscapes.
  • Visit Serjilla and Bara, two of Syria’s most remarkable Dead Cities.
  • Walk among stone ruins and hear how these forgotten towns once lived and prospered.
  • Continue to Hama, renowned as the city of waterwheels.
  • See the giant Norias on the Orontes River and enjoy riverside views.
  • Short stroll in the city and time to interact with locals in one of Syria’s friendliest places.
  • Drive toward the green hills of the west and the Valley of Christians.
  • Visit the awe-inspiring Krak des Chevaliers, one of the best-preserved crusader castles in the world.
  • Walk the ramparts, halls, and courtyards while learning the castle’s story.
  • Lunch at a local family house in the Valley of Christians — a warm, home-cooked table and real village hospitality.
  • Local Winery Stop & Wine Tasting in the Valley of Christians — a relaxed countryside visit and a chance to taste Syrian wines in a beautiful setting.
  • Arrive to the peaceful countryside villages (Mishtaya / Marmarita area) for overnight.
  • Evening atmosphere in a Christian village — calm, warm, and perfect after a rich travel day.

Day 6 (Dec 29)

Palmyra • Back to Damascus

  • Depart early and travel through changing landscapes toward the Syrian semi-desert.
  • Arrive to Palmyra — often called the pearl of the desert.
  • Start with a wide panorama to understand the ancient city’s scale and setting.
  • Walk sections of the Colonnaded Street, the ancient market axis of the city.
  • Visit key monuments: the Theatre, Agora, and surviving temple remains.
  • Hear Palmyra’s story — its rise, its beauty, and the tragic destruction in 2015.
  • Visit viewpoints / key spots that help you connect the ruins to the living landscape.
  • Scenic drive with a stop at a traditional Bedouin tent for a rejuvenating break.
  • Enjoy a relaxed lunch with tea and simple regional dishes.
  • Continue the drive back to Damascus (around three hours, depending on stops).
  • Check-in in Damascus and take time to rest after the travel day.
  • Evening free — cafés, old city walks, or your guide’s dinner suggestions.

Day 6 (Dec 29)

Palmyra • Back to Damascus

  • Depart early and travel through changing landscapes toward the Syrian semi-desert.
  • Arrive to Palmyra — often called the pearl of the desert.
  • Start with a wide panorama to understand the ancient city’s scale and setting.
  • Walk sections of the Colonnaded Street, the ancient market axis of the city.
  • Visit key monuments: the Theatre, Agora, and surviving temple remains.
  • Hear Palmyra’s story — its rise, its beauty, and the tragic destruction in 2015.
  • Visit viewpoints / key spots that help you connect the ruins to the living landscape.
  • Scenic drive with a stop at a traditional Bedouin tent for a rejuvenating break.
  • Enjoy a relaxed lunch with tea and simple regional dishes.
  • Continue the drive back to Damascus (around three hours, depending on stops).
  • Check-in in Damascus and take time to rest after the travel day.
  • Evening free — cafés, old city walks, or your guide’s dinner suggestions.

Day 7 (Dec 30)

Bosra — Roman Theatre & Southern Countryside

  • Morning departure from Damascus heading south through the fertile Horan plain.
  • Scenic drive with wide views of fields, basalt villages, and ancient landscapes.
  • Arrive to Bosra, one of Syria’s most remarkable archaeological towns built in black basalt.
  • Explore the famous Roman Theatre, among the best preserved in the world.
  • Walk Bosra’s ancient streets and see Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic layers overlap.
  • Discover temples, churches, and mosques crafted from black basalt stones.
  • Photo stops inside and around the theatre — a truly dramatic setting.
  • Enjoy a relaxed local lunch in the southern countryside.
  • Drive back to Damascus with time for a calm evening walk or café stop.
  • Optional farewell dinner in a traditional Damascene courtyard restaurant recommended by your guide.
  • Overnight in Damascus.

Day 7 (Dec 30)

Bosra — Roman Theatre & Southern Countryside

  • Morning departure from Damascus heading south through the fertile Horan plain.
  • Scenic drive with wide views of fields, basalt villages, and ancient landscapes.
  • Arrive to Bosra, one of Syria’s most remarkable archaeological towns built in black basalt.
  • Explore the famous Roman Theatre, among the best preserved in the world.
  • Walk Bosra’s ancient streets and see Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic layers overlap.
  • Discover temples, churches, and mosques crafted from black basalt stones.
  • Photo stops inside and around the theatre — a truly dramatic setting.
  • Enjoy a relaxed local lunch in the southern countryside.
  • Drive back to Damascus with time for a calm evening walk or café stop.
  • Optional farewell dinner in a traditional Damascene courtyard restaurant recommended by your guide.
  • Overnight in Damascus.

Day 8 (Dec 31)

Damascus — Crafts, Shrines, Souvenirs & Free Time + Departure

  • Breakfast and a calm start — your final day in Damascus.
  • Visit the lavishly decorated Sayyida Ruqiyah Shrine, famous for glass mosaics and Kashani motifs.
  • Explore hidden corners of the old city — quiet alleys, courtyards, and local life.
  • Visit handicraft workshops where artisans create swords, copper pieces, and mosaics.
  • Optional stops for Ajami-painted woodwork, textiles, and Damascene steel.
  • Time in Hamidiyah Souq for last-minute shopping and gifts.
  • Stop in Bzuriyeh Spice Market for spices, sweets, and classic Syrian treats.
  • Coffee/tea break in a historic café — one last slow moment inside the old city.
  • Relaxed lunch (included) and time to choose what you want more of — history, crafts, or atmosphere.
  • Free time in the afternoon to explore Damascus at your own pace.
  • Depending on your flight / exit plan, transfer to Damascus Airport or the border (Beirut / Amman).
  • Full assistance with departure procedures and smooth coordination for onward travel.
  • Tour ends with warm goodbyes and support until you’re safely on your way.

Day 8 (Dec 31)

Damascus — Crafts, Shrines, Souvenirs & Free Time + Departure

  • Breakfast and a calm start — your final day in Damascus.
  • Visit the lavishly decorated Sayyida Ruqiyah Shrine, famous for glass mosaics and Kashani motifs.
  • Explore hidden corners of the old city — quiet alleys, courtyards, and local life.
  • Visit handicraft workshops where artisans create swords, copper pieces, and mosaics.
  • Optional stops for Ajami-painted woodwork, textiles, and Damascene steel.
  • Time in Hamidiyah Souq for last-minute shopping and gifts.
  • Stop in Bzuriyeh Spice Market for spices, sweets, and classic Syrian treats.
  • Coffee/tea break in a historic café — one last slow moment inside the old city.
  • Relaxed lunch (included) and time to choose what you want more of — history, crafts, or atmosphere.
  • Free time in the afternoon to explore Damascus at your own pace.
  • Depending on your flight / exit plan, transfer to Damascus Airport or the border (Beirut / Amman).
  • Full assistance with departure procedures and smooth coordination for onward travel.
  • Tour ends with warm goodbyes and support until you’re safely on your way.

Where You’ll Stay

Comfort & Services

We deliberately choose trusted local hotels and characterful guesthouses over generic towers. You stay in places that feel rooted in Syrian life — old houses, central locations, countryside stays — while still enjoying comfort, good services, and warm hospitality.

Rooms are typically twin rooms. If you prefer a private room, a single supplement of 260 USD applies.

  • Wi-Fi in rooms or common areas
  • Heating & Air Conditioning
  • Private ensuite bathrooms
  • 24-hour electricity
  • Daily breakfast included
  • Laundry available (on request)
  • Nearby hammams / spa options
  • Walkable locations for evenings

Damascus – Via Recta Hotel

An authentic 150-year-old Damascene guesthouse in the Old City, where painted ceilings, stone arches, and an inner courtyard create that classic Damascus feeling with modern comfort. The team is genuinely hospitable — you are welcomed more like family than a room number, and the location is perfect for evening walks.

Aleppo – Central Hotel (4★ or similar)

A comfortable, centrally located hotel with reliable service and easy access to Aleppo’s main areas — ideal after full days in the old city and around the citadel.

Wadi al-Nasara – Villa Rosa / Winery Guesthouse

In the Valley of the Christians we typically use Villa Rosa or a winery guesthouse, depending on group size. Both are small, welcoming properties with fresh mountain air, views over the valley, and quick access to Krak des Chevaliers — a quiet place to unwind, often with the option to enjoy local wine and home-style hospitality.

Meals

Breakfasts and lunches are included every day of the tour. Lunches stay relaxed and local — sometimes a simple restaurant Syrians actually use, sometimes a scenic stop, sometimes a family-style table depending on the day.

Dinners are not included, but you are never left 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.

What kind of meals to expect

Throughout the tour, you’ll taste authentic Syrian flavours — the dishes locals grow up eating. Expect breakfasts like fatteh, labneh, olives, fresh bread, eggs, makdous, seasonal jams, and hearty lunches such as freekeh with chicken, okra stew, grilled kebab, stuffed vine leaves, lentil soups, fresh mezze. Your guide also helps you discover street-food favourites: falafel, shawarma, manakish, sfiha pastries, muhammara, Aleppo kebab, barazek cookies, and warm sweets.

December flavours & Christmas atmosphere

December in Syria feels intimate — warm bakeries, winter comfort dishes, and festive streets in the Christian quarters. On the first night, you experience the Christmas atmosphere in Old Damascus — decorations, lights, and a holiday night that feels surprisingly alive and human.

  • Daily breakfasts included
  • Local lunches in family places & small restaurants
  • Curated dinner spots in Damascus, Aleppo & countryside

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 8–10 travelers to ensure extra space, comfort, and a relaxed travel experience.

The interior is spacious with 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.

  • Comfortable cushioned seats
  • A/C and heating
  • Large panoramic windows
  • On-board Wi-Fi
  • USB charging ports
  • Overhead storage space
  • Bottled water provided
  • Professional experienced driver
  • Spacious luggage compartment
  • Seat belts for every passenger

Includes & Excludes

INCLUDES

  • Two-Way Transfer (From & to Beirut)
  • Accommodation (4–5★, twin rooms)
  • Transportation (A/C Bus)
  • Fluent Knowledgeable Guide
  • Sightseeing & Tours
  • Visa Assistance
  • Meals (Breakfasts & Lunches)
  • Travel Insurance
  • Wine Tasting

EXCLUDES

  • Flight Tickets
  • Dinners
  • Personal Expenses
  • Tips

Visa & Entry Requirements

If you are entering Syria from Beirut by land, you do not need visa approval in advance — your visa is issued upon arrival at the border.

If you are flying into Damascus Airport, you usually need visa pre-approval before boarding. This approval process often takes 3 to 7 working days (depending on nationality).

Visa fees are paid at the border and vary by passport. 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 and assists with all procedures. The process is straightforward, and we walk you through each step.

For detailed information, please see our dedicated guide:
Syria Travel Guide — Visa and Entry Requirements

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:
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, we recommend:

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 guide will accompany you throughout your journey. For more information, read our Safety and Security in Syria page.

How can I obtain a visa for Syria?

If you’re entering Syria by land from Lebanon or Jordan, the process is easy: you receive a visa on arrival at the border after paying the visa fee. If you’re flying into Damascus, you usually need visa pre-approval before boarding. We advise you clearly depending on your passport and entry route.

How long does it take to get a visa to Syria?

If you’re flying directly to Damascus, you usually need an initial visa approval before boarding. This approval process often takes 3 to 7 working days (depending on nationality). If you’re entering by land, the visa is typically issued on arrival. For details, see: Syria Visa Requirements.

What is the currency exchange rate in Syria?

Currency exchange rates in Syria can fluctuate. We recommend checking current rates online shortly before your trip. Our Money in Syria page can also help with practical guidance during your travels.

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 the tour, we guide you on appropriate dress and behaviour at each site.

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. Popular items include mosaic art, spices, textiles, copper pieces, and Aleppo soap. Your guide will help you find quality workshops and fair prices.

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. Our group tours include travel insurance for added peace of mind.

Can I use credit cards in Syria?

Credit cards are generally not functional or reliable in Syria. It is best to carry cash and exchange locally with guidance from your tour leader. See our Money in Syria page for practical tips.

Any vegetarian or vegan options available in Syrian restaurants?

Yes. Syrian cuisine offers many vegetarian-friendly dishes such as falafel, hummus, tabbouleh, fattoush, lentil soups, and stuffed vine leaves (warak enab). We can accommodate most dietary requirements if you tell us in advance.

In which cases can’t I visit Syria?

You cannot visit Syria if you have visited Israel or have Israeli entry stamps/records in your passport. If you’re unsure, message us and we’ll advise clearly.

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.

What people say about us

How to Book

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Send us an enquiry

Start by contacting us through Quick Enquiry form below or by emailing info@syrianguides.com to confirm availability for the Syria 8-Day Christmas Group Tour, the number of travellers, and any special requests.

We send you the registration link

Once we receive your enquiry, we confirm availability and send you a simple online form where you fill in your personal details and upload a clear photo of your passport.

Pay your deposit securely

After receiving your form, we send you a secure online payment link. Paying the deposit officially reserves your spot and activates the next steps of your booking. The remaining balance is paid before the tour or upon arrival. Full details here.

Receive your booking confirmation

As soon as your deposit is processed, you receive your official booking confirmation, the detailed day-by-day itinerary, and essential information about accommodation, meals, and meeting points.

Visa support (if needed)

If your trip requires visa pre-approval (for flights), we begin the process immediately and guide you through everything until approval is granted.

Join the WhatsApp group

We create a dedicated WhatsApp group for your tour. This allows all participants to meet each other, ask questions, share travel updates, and stay informed about the tour in real time.

Pre-departure pack

A few days before your trip, you receive a full pre-departure pack including: hotel contacts, border and arrival instructions, packing tips, currency and SIM card guidance, weather expectations, and cultural notes.

Meet your guide in Syria

On arrival, your guide and driver greet you, assist with the border process, and your journey officially begins.

BOOK YOUR TRIP TODAY!

Eager for an unforgettable travel experience?

Book your Syria Christmas tour today and experience the festive atmosphere of Damascus — while still covering Syria’s greatest highlights. Secure your spot now to explore captivating destinations and create lasting memories.

Have any questions? Contact us!

+963-936-358380

info@syrianguides.com

24/7

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