Destination · Central Syria
Hama
A calm city on the Orontes, where wooden waterwheels have turned for centuries.
Region
Central Syria
Best time
March–May · September–November
Time needed
1 day
From Damascus
About 2.5 hours by road
Why go
A pause by the river.
Hama is known for its norias: huge wooden waterwheels that lifted water from the Orontes to the fields and gardens. Their creaking is the sound of the city.
It is a slower city, good for walks by the river, old quarters and sweets. It also makes an easy base for Apamea and the countryside.
Highlights
- The norias on the Orontes
- The Azem Palace of Hama
- Walks along the river and old quarters
- Halawet el-jibn and local sweets
- Day trips to Apamea and the Ghab plain
When to go
Best in spring and autumn.
Spring · Mar–May
Green banks and the river at its fullest.
Summer · Jun–Aug
Hot days, pleasant evenings by the water.
Autumn · Sep–Nov
Settled, warm weather.
Winter · Dec–Feb
Cool and quiet.
Getting there
Hama sits on the main road between Damascus and Aleppo, so it fits naturally into most northern routes.
Good to know
- Evenings by the river are the nicest time
- Try the local sweets
- Dress modestly in the old city
- Use Hama as a base for nearby sites
Combine with
Apamea, the Krak des Chevaliers, or continue north to Aleppo.
Travel with Juzoor
Plan a stop in Hama.
On the way north or as a base for the region. Tell us your plans.
