Destination · Damascus
Damascus
One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, still lived in lane by lane.
Region
Southwest Syria
Best time
March–May · September–November
Time needed
2–3 days
Arriving
Damascus airport, or by road from Beirut or Amman
Why go
A city you walk, not just visit.
Inside the old walls, Roman streets, Umayyad stone, Ottoman houses and everyday life sit on top of each other. Most of the old city is best seen on foot, at an easy pace.
We spend Damascus days in its lanes and courtyards: coffee at old cafés, workshops still making things by hand, and long meals with people who know the city.
Highlights
- The Umayyad Mosque and its courtyard
- Souq al-Hamidiyah and the spice markets
- Straight Street, Bab Sharqi and Bab Touma
- Azem Palace and the old courtyard houses
- Sunset over the city from Mount Qasioun
When to go
Best in spring and autumn.
Spring · Mar–May
Mild weather and jasmine in the courtyards. Ideal for walking.
Summer · Jun–Aug
Hot afternoons, lively evenings. We walk early and late.
Autumn · Sep–Nov
Warm days, cool nights and clear light.
Winter · Dec–Feb
Cool and sometimes rainy, with quiet streets.
Getting there
Most journeys start in Damascus. We meet you at the airport or bring you by private car from Beirut or Amman.
Good to know
- Wear comfortable shoes for stone lanes
- Dress modestly when visiting mosques and churches
- Friday mornings are quieter in the souqs
- Carry some cash: many small shops don’t take cards
Combine with
Maaloula and Saidnaya in the mountains, or Bosra to the south.
Travel with Juzoor
Plan your days in Damascus.
A short city stay or the start of a longer journey. Tell us what you’d like to see.
