Day 1: Exploring Old Damascus

Places to Visit

• Umayyad Mosque: The oldest mosque in the world, built in 706 AD. It’s a must-visit historical landmark.
• Old City Souks (Markets): Wander through the narrow alleys and discover unique souvenirs, spices, and local products.

Activities

• Take a guided tour: Join a knowledgeable guide to learn about the history and significance of these ancient sites.
• Explore the Christian Quarter: Visit St. George Cathedral and other historic churches in the area.

Where to Eat

• Abu Al-Hasan Restaurant: Enjoy traditional Syrian cuisine like kibbeh, shawarma, and falafel in a cozy atmosphere.
• Al-Bustan Café: Relax with a cup of coffee or tea and indulge in local pastries and snacks.

Where to Stay

• Damascus Hotel: A comfortable hotel located near the Old City, offering stunning views of the city.
• Hotel Al-Khansaa: A luxurious option with elegant rooms and an excellent restaurant serving international cuisine.

Things to Know

• Language: Arabic is the official language, but many locals speak English.
• Currency: Syrian Pound (SYP), although USD and credit cards are widely accepted.
• Safety: Damascus is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Transportation

• Taxis: Available throughout the city, with meters or fixed prices for specific routes.
• Public Transport: Buses and minibuses connect various parts of the city, although services may be limited in tourist areas.

Tips and Other Things to Note

• Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting mosques or other religious sites.
• Haggle: Engage in friendly negotiations when purchasing souvenirs or local products.
• Try street food: Sample delicious and affordable snacks from vendors throughout the city.

Day 2: Discovering Modern Damascus

Places to Visit

• National Museum of Syria: Learn about the country’s rich history and culture at this world-class museum.
• Al-Shabab Sports Club Stadium: Catch a football match or take a guided tour of the stadium.

Activities

• Take a walking tour: Explore modern neighborhoods like Midan, Muhajirin, and Abu Remman.
• Visit the local market in Midan: Shop for fresh produce, flowers, and other goods at this bustling marketplace.

Where to Eat

• Kabir Restaurant: Enjoy traditional Syrian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients and innovative recipes.
• Baba’s Place: Savor delicious sandwiches, salads, and desserts in a cozy atmosphere.

Where to Stay

• Hotel Al-Wadi: A luxurious option located near the National Museum, offering stunning views of the city.
• Hotel Muhajirin: A comfortable hotel situated in the heart of Midan neighborhood.

Things to Know

• Language: As mentioned earlier, Arabic is the official language, but many locals speak English.
• Currency: Syrian Pound (SYP), although USD and credit cards are widely accepted.
• Safety: Damascus is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Transportation

• Taxis: Available throughout the city, with meters or fixed prices for specific routes.
• Public Transport: Buses and minibuses connect various parts of the city, although services may be limited in tourist areas.

Tips and Other Things to Note

• Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting mosques or other religious sites.
• Haggle: Engage in friendly negotiations when purchasing souvenirs or local products.
• Try street food: Sample delicious and affordable snacks from vendors throughout the city.

Day 3: Exploring the Countryside

Places to Visit

• Mount Qassioun: Take a scenic hike through this beautiful mountain range, offering breathtaking views of Damascus.
• Ain al-Furjan Village: Experience rural life in Syria and enjoy traditional hospitality at this charming village.

Activities

• Take a picnic: Pack a lunch and enjoy it amidst the stunning natural scenery.
• Visit local farms: Learn about traditional farming practices and sample fresh produce from these countryside farms.

Where to Eat

• The Olive Tree Restaurant: Savor delicious Syrian cuisine with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients in this scenic restaurant.
• Al-Hamra Café: Relax with a cup of coffee or tea and indulge in local pastries and snacks.

Where to Stay

• Hotel Al-Wadi: A luxurious option located near the National Museum, offering stunning views of the city.
• Hotel Muhajirin: A comfortable hotel situated in the heart of Midan neighborhood.

Things to Know

• Language: As mentioned earlier, Arabic is the official language, but many locals speak English.
• Currency: Syrian Pound (SYP), although USD and credit cards are widely accepted.
• Safety: Damascus is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Transportation

• Taxis: Available throughout the city, with meters or fixed prices for specific routes.
• Public Transport: Buses and minibuses connect various parts of the city, although services may be limited in tourist areas.

Tips and Other Things to Note

• Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting mosques or other religious sites.
• Haggle: Engage in friendly negotiations when purchasing souvenirs or local products.
• Try street food: Sample delicious and affordable snacks from vendors throughout the city.

Day 4: Shopping and Relaxation

Places to Visit

• Damascus Souks (Markets): Browse through the various alleys and discover unique souvenirs, spices, and local products.
• Old City: Wander through the historic streets and explore shops selling traditional Syrian clothing and accessories.

Activities

• Take a break at Al-Bustan Café: Relax with a cup of coffee or tea and indulge in local pastries and snacks.
• Enjoy a massage at Spa Oasis: Treat yourself to a rejuvenating massage and other spa treatments.

Where to Eat

• Abu Al-Hasan Restaurant: Enjoy traditional Syrian cuisine like kibbeh, shawarma, and falafel in a cozy atmosphere.
• Kabir Restaurant: Savor delicious Syrian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients and innovative recipes.

Where to Stay

• Damascus Hotel: A comfortable hotel located near the Old City, offering stunning views of the city.
• Hotel Al-Khansaa: A luxurious option with elegant rooms and an excellent restaurant serving international cuisine.

Things to Know

• Language: Arabic is the official language, but many locals speak English.
• Currency: Syrian Pound (SYP), although USD and credit cards are widely accepted.
• Safety: Damascus is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Transportation

• Taxis: Available throughout the city, with meters or fixed prices for specific routes.
• Public Transport: Buses and minibuses connect various parts of the city, although services may be limited in tourist areas.

Tips and Other Things to Note

• Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting mosques or other religious sites.
• Haggle: Engage in friendly negotiations when purchasing souvenirs or local products.
• Try street food: Sample delicious and affordable snacks from vendors throughout the city.