11-Day Ultimate Family Travel Guides Route in Syria
Syria is a land where history comes alive at every corner, offering an incredibly rich educational experience for families. This 11-day route focuses on the most accessible and culturally significant sites, from the ancient streets of Damascus to the impressive ruins of Aleppo and the breezy Mediterranean coast. We have prioritized comfortable travel and kid-friendly pacing to ensure the little ones enjoy the adventure as much as the adults.
Our classic route emphasizes safety, accessibility, and the legendary hospitality of the Syrian people. You will find that many historical sites are surprisingly spacious for children to explore, while the local cuisine offers plenty of options for picky eaters. Get ready to dive into the cradle of civilization at a relaxed, family-friendly tempo.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Damascus, Syria - Arrival & Old City Introduction
Arrival at Damascus International Airport
Complete your entry formalities and meet your local guide. The drive into the city provides a first glimpse of the Syrian capital’s bustling life.
Lunch at Naranj
Enjoy a high-end, family-friendly introduction to Syrian cuisine in a beautiful traditional courtyard setting. The staff is excellent with children.
Al-Hamidiyah Souq Stroll
Walk through the wide, covered market. The main thoroughfare is stroller-accessible and leads directly to the Umayyad Mosque.
Bakdash Ice Cream Experience
Treat the kids to the world-famous booza (pounded ice cream) topped with pistachios. It is an interactive and delicious show!
Day 2: Damascus, Syria - Spiritual & Historical Icons
Umayyad Mosque Exploration
Visit one of the largest and oldest mosques in the world. The vast marble courtyard is perfect for kids to walk around freely (shoes off!).
Saladin’s Mausoleum
Located just outside the mosque, this small but significant site offers a quick history lesson about the legendary leader.
Azm Palace
Explore the stunning 18th-century Ottoman palace. The colorful courtyards and dioramas showing old Damascene life are very engaging for children.
Straight Street Walk
Follow the biblical 'Street Called Straight' toward Bab Sharqi, observing the mix of Roman arches and modern local shops.
Day 3: Damascus, Syria - Parks and Panoramas
National Museum of Damascus
View the reconstructed synagogue and the vast gardens filled with statues. The garden area is a quiet place for kids to stretch their legs.
Tishreen Park Picnic
Visit the city's largest public park. It’s a great spot for a relaxed family lunch while children play in the open green spaces.
Mount Qasioun Sunset
Take a car to the viewpoint for a panoramic look over the city. It is a favorite local tradition to watch the city lights flicker on.
Dinner in Dummar
A more modern residential area with plenty of family-style restaurants offering international and local menus.
Day 4: Maaloula, Syria - Ancient Canyons & Echoes
Drive to Maaloula
A scenic 1-hour drive north of Damascus leads to this picturesque village where Western Aramaic is still spoken.
Saint Tekla Monastery
Walk through the narrow mountain cleft (faj) leading to the monastery. The walk is easy and thrilling for children as the cliffs tower above.
Mar Sarkis Lunch
Enjoy lunch overlooking the village. The cooler mountain air is a refreshing break from the city heat.
Transfer to Homs
Continue your journey north to Homs. The roads are well-maintained, making for a smooth late-afternoon transit.
Day 5: Homs, Syria - The Mighty Crusader Fortress
Krak des Chevaliers Tour
Explore what T.E. Lawrence called "the finest castle in the world." The massive halls and stable areas are perfect for a family adventure.
Lunch at Des Chevaliers
Eat at a restaurant overlooking the castle. The view is spectacular, and the atmosphere is very laid-back.
Saint George Monastery
Visit this nearby Greek Orthodox monastery, known for its beautiful woodwork and historical significance in the Valley of Christians.
Return to Homs City
Check into your hotel and enjoy a quiet evening. Homs is known for its sweet shops, so be sure to try some local Halawet el-Jibn.
Day 6: Tartus, Syria - Coastal Relaxation
Travel to Tartus
A short drive toward the Mediterranean coast. The change in scenery to lush green hills and blue water is delightful.
Old City of Tartus
The old city is built inside the walls of a former Crusader fortress. It's a compact, walkable area perfect for a slow family stroll.
Tartus Corniche
Walk along the seafront. There are plenty of benches, playgrounds, and places to grab a juice while watching the Mediterranean waves.
Fresh Seafood Dinner
Tartus is famous for its fish. Many restaurants on the Corniche offer fresh catches of the day in a family-oriented setting.
Day 7: Tartus, Syria - Island Adventures
Arwad Island Boat Trip
Take a short 15-minute boat ride to Syria’s only inhabited island. Kids will love the ferry ride and exploring the car-free island streets.
Exploring Arwad Fortress
Visit the small museum and the ancient walls. The island is known for its traditional boat-building workshops.
Lunch on the Waterfront
Eat right by the harbor. Arwad’s unique charm and small-town feel make it a very safe and fun place for children to explore.
Amrit Archaeological Site
Located just south of Tartus, this Phoenician site features a unique water temple and an ancient stadium that is easy to walk through.
Day 8: Lattakia, Syria - Ancient Alphabets & Beaches
Drive to Lattakia
Follow the coast north to Syria's main port city. The journey takes about 1.5 hours through citrus and olive groves.
Ugarit (Ras Shamra)
Visit the ruins of the city where the first alphabet was discovered. It’s an open-air site where kids can imagine ancient palace life.
Cote d'Azur Beach Time
Spend the afternoon at one of the resorts. The shallow waters and sandy beaches are ideal for a family swim and relaxation.
Lattakia City Center
Explore the vibrant markets and the Roman Tetrapylon. The city has a very modern and relaxed coastal atmosphere.
Day 9: Aleppo, Syria - The Northern Jewel
Transfer to Aleppo
Travel inland toward the historic city of Aleppo. The road reveals the changing landscapes of Northern Syria.
Aleppo Citadel
This massive medieval fortified palace is the heart of the city. Walking up the grand bridge entrance is a highlight for any traveler.
Old Souks Exploration
While some areas are still under renovation, the open sections of the Al-Madina Souq offer a fascinating look at traditional trade.
Dinner near the Citadel
Several cafes around the Citadel square have reopened, offering incredible evening views of the illuminated walls.
Day 10: Aleppo, Syria - Gardens & Culture
Public Garden of Aleppo
One of the oldest and largest parks in the city. It's a great place for children to run around and meet local families.
Al-Jdeideh Quarter
Walk through the historic Christian quarter. The narrow alleys are full of charm and lead to beautiful courtyards and churches.
Aleppo National Museum
Houses artifacts from Ugarit and Mari. It is smaller and more manageable than the Damascus museum, making it better for a quick family visit.
Farewell Aleppo Dinner
Try the famous Aleppo Kibbeh and cherry kebab—flavors you won't find anywhere else in the world.
Day 11: Damascus, Syria - Final Souvenirs & Departure
Return Drive to Damascus
A long but steady drive back to the capital. Use this time to review photos and enjoy the Syrian countryside one last time.
Final Shopping at Tekkiyeh Suleimaniyeh
This craft market is located in a beautiful 16th-century complex. It’s the best place to buy high-quality, handmade Syrian souvenirs.
Last Syrian Tea
Sit in a traditional cafe in the Old City for one last glass of mint tea and some Syrian sweets.
Transfer to Damascus International Airport
Head to the airport for your flight home, carrying memories of an incredible family journey through history.
Best Time to Visit Syria
The best time to visit Syria for families is during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). During these periods, the weather is mild and pleasant for walking around outdoor ruins and city centers. Summers can be extremely hot, especially in the interior, making it difficult for children to stay comfortable during long sightseeing days. Winters are generally cool but can be rainy and occasionally snowy in Damascus and the northern regions.
Currency & Money
The local currency is the Syrian Pound (SYP). Due to international sanctions, international credit and debit cards do not work at ATMs or in shops in Syria. You MUST bring enough cash in USD or Euros to exchange locally for your entire trip. Tipping is common and appreciated in restaurants and for guides/drivers; usually, 10% is a standard gesture of thanks for good service.
Getting Around Syria
The most comfortable and reliable way to travel between cities in Syria, especially for families, is by private car or van with a professional driver. While there is a network of buses (Pullman) connecting major cities like Damascus, Homs, and Tartus, a private vehicle offers the flexibility of stopping for breaks whenever needed. There are no functioning passenger trains for the entire route currently, and domestic flights between Damascus and Aleppo are available but schedules can be infrequent.
