SYRIA 8-DAY CHRISTMAS GROUP TOUR
ABOUT TRIP
An enchanting 8-day tour through Syria, immersed in festive Christmas vibes. Explore ancient Damascus, savor Christmas festivities, and tour iconic landmarks. Experience the joy of Aleppo, witness waterwheels in Hama, and visit the impressive Krak des Chevaliers. Discover the magical Christmas spirit in Palmyra’s ruins, concluding with cultural sites and a scenic drive to Bosra, ending the adventure in the heart of Syria’s holiday cheer.
DAY 1
Arrival in Damascus:
- Choose your entry point – Beirut, Jordan, or Damascus airport.
- Warm welcome from your friendly guide.
- Accompanied to your hotel with a smooth check-in process.
City Exploration:
- Relax with a short break at your hotel.
- Engage in a captivating walking tour of ancient Damascus.
- Explore Christian and Jewish quarters, visit Ananias Chapel, and admire Damascene houses.
- Experience the lively food street, stopping at Nofara, Syria’s oldest café.
- Ascend to a rooftop for a breathtaking sunset over the city.
Enchanting Christmas Night:
- Highlight: Christmas night in ancient Damascus.
- Enjoy a special dinner party amid vibrant decorations.
- Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere.
- Experience the rich history and flavors of traditional Syrian cuisine.
- An unforgettable celebration capturing the true spirit of the holiday season.
DAY 2
- Start the day with a local breakfast.
- Head out to Ghota, where the remnants of the region’s turbulent past are.
- Explore the modern side at the National Museum.
- Witness attractions like the 100-year-old Hijaz railway station.
- Visit iconic landmarks: Umayyad Mosque and Al-Hamidiyah Souq.
- Indulge in a lunch sampling local cuisine.
- The afternoon includes exploring ancient houses, caravanserais, and souks.
- Conclude the day with a sunset view from a rooftop vantage point.
DAY 3
MAALOULA – HOMS – ALEPPO
- Begin northbound journey from Damascus to Maaloula
- Enjoy the scenery of houses intricately carved into mountainside.
- Listen to prayers in Aramaic, Jesus Christ’s language.
- Witness Safir Hotel, once Nusra Front headquarters.
- Continue to Homs, Syria’s third-largest city, hub for oil and gas production.
- Visit Khalid ibn al-Walid Mosque and Church of Virgin Mary’s Holy Belt
- Walk through picturesque old market.
- Conclude the day by reaching Aleppo, where you will spend two nights.
DAY 4
- Visit the Citadel of Aleppo.
- Stroll through the ancient city alleys.
- Explore an 800-year-old soap factory.
- Visit Aleppo souks and Aleppo Museum.
- Witness the oldest functioning hotel in Syria and a 14th-century neighborhood.
- Meet locals with inspiring stories.
- Conclude the day with a panoramic view of the city and its citadel.
DAY 5
IDLIB – HAMA – KRAK DES CHEVALIERS
- Depart Aleppo and head Serjilla and Bara, two of Syria’s most remarkable Dead Cities.
- Continue the journey to Hama, renowned as the city of waterwheels, offering a close-up view of these famous landmarks.
- Venture to the awe-inspiring Krak des Chevaliers, a remarkably well-preserved crusader castle in the picturesque Valley of the Christians.
- Conclude the day’s adventures with a retreat to the tranquil village of Mishtaya.
- Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the nearby Christian village of Marmarita during your overnight stay.
DAY 6
- Explore Palmyra, often referred to as the pearl of the semi-desert.
- Discover ancient ruins, including the iconic Temple of Bel and the majestic Arch of Triumph.
- Gain insight into Palmyra’s history, from its 1st-century AD rise to the tragic 2015 destruction.
- Enjoy a scenic three-hour drive and visit a traditional Bedouin tent for a rejuvenating break and delightful lunch.
- Return to Damascus for an overnight stay, reflecting on enchanting memories made during your journey.
DAY 7
- Visits to the lavishly decorated Sayyida Ruqiyah shrine, adorned with intricate glass mosaics and Kashani motifs.
- Explore handicraft workshops where skilled artisans create swords, copper pieces, and mosaics.
- Utilize free time on your final day to explore Damascus or engage in last-minute shopping.
DAY 8
Explore Syria’s history with a scenic drive through Horan’s fertile plain, Bosra’s Roman amphitheater, and black basalt temples. Conclude the journey departing for Beirut or Amman.
- A two-hour drive through the fertile Horan plain, enjoying breathtaking views of ruins and monuments.
- Explore the well-preserved Roman amphitheater in Bosra and indulge in a delightful picnic amid its historic surroundings.
- Discover temples, churches, and mosques crafted from black basalt stones, appreciating the architectural grandeur of the Roman amphitheater.
- Depart for Beirut, concluding your enriching journey through the historical wonders of Syria.
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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 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?
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.
BOOK YOUR TRIP TODAY!
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