9-Day Classic Syria Family Travel Route: Culture and Comfort
Syria offers a profound journey through the cradle of civilization, where ancient history meets legendary hospitality. This 9-day itinerary is specifically designed for families and those seeking a classic route through the country's most iconic cities while maintaining a relaxed pace. We focus on comfortable intercity travel and activities that keep children engaged without exhausting the adults.
Traveling through Syria today requires a blend of curiosity and careful planning. You'll find that the major tourist hubs like Damascus and Aleppo are revitalizing, offering beautiful boutique hotels and accessible historic sites. This route ensures you see the architectural marvels of the Levant while enjoying local parks, famous ice cream parlors, and stroller-friendly squares that make family travel a joy.
Day 1: Damascus, Syria - Arrival & Old City Charm
Arrival at Damascus International Airport
Upon arrival, take a private transfer to your boutique hotel in the Old City. The transition from the airport is smooth, allowing the family to settle in and refresh after the flight.
Al-Hamidiyah Souq Stroll
Walk through the wide, covered Al-Hamidiyah Souq. The main thoroughfare is stroller-friendly and the high vaulted ceilings keep the temperature cool even in the afternoon heat.
Bakdash Ice Cream Experience
Stop at the world-famous Bakdash. Watching the artisans pound the traditional 'booza' with large wooden mallets is a spectacle that children will absolutely love before they get to eat it.
Family Dinner in a Courtyard Restaurant
Enjoy dinner at a traditional Damascene house turned restaurant. The enclosed courtyards are safe for kids to explore while parents enjoy the sounds of the central fountain.
Day 2: Damascus, Syria - Ancient Faith and Palaces
The Umayyad Mosque
Visit one of the largest and oldest mosques in the world. The massive open-air courtyard is paved with smooth marble, making it an easy place for children to walk safely while you admire the mosaics.
Al-Azem Palace
Explore this 18th-century Ottoman palace. The folk museum inside features life-sized dioramas of old Damascene life, which are highly engaging for younger travelers.
Lunch at Naranj
Taste authentic Levantine cuisine in a highly-rated, comfortable environment that caters well to families with diverse dietary needs.
Straight Street Walk
Follow the historic 'Via Recta.' The street is wider than most in the Old City, accommodating strollers easily as you pass by ancient Roman arches and small artisan workshops.
Day 3: Damascus, Syria - Christian Heritage Day Trip
Scenic Drive to Maaloula
A short, comfortable 1-hour drive north of Damascus takes you to this cliffside village where Aramaic, the language of Jesus, is still spoken. The drive offers stunning mountain views.
Monastery of Saint Thecla
Visit the cave chapel of St. Thecla. The walk through the narrow mountain gorge (siq) to reach the monastery is an easy, adventurous 'hike' for children.
Village Lunch in Sednaya
Enjoy a relaxed lunch overlooking the valley in Sednaya, a beautiful town known for its high-altitude monasteries and fresh mountain air.
Monastery of Our Lady of Sednaya
Climb the steps to this historic site. The view from the top is spectacular, providing a perfect backdrop for family photos before returning to Damascus.
Day 4: Homs, Syria - Crusader Castles
Intercity Travel to Homs District
Head north toward Homs in a private vehicle. The roads are well-maintained, allowing for a comfortable 2.5-hour journey through the Syrian countryside.
Krak des Chevaliers Exploration
Visit what is arguably the world's best-preserved crusader castle. Its massive stone walls and inner courtyards provide endless fascination for kids dreaming of knights and legends.
Panoramic Lunch
Eat at one of the hilltop restaurants facing the castle. It allows the kids to rest while keeping the impressive fortress in full view.
Arrival in Hama
Continue the short drive to the city of Hama. Check into your hotel and enjoy a quiet evening by the Orontes River.
Day 5: Hama, Syria - Water Wheels and Riverside Parks
The Norias of Hama
See the giant ancient wooden water wheels. The unique sound they make as they turn is iconic to the city and can be seen from several accessible riverside walkways.
Public Garden Relaxation
Hama features several green spaces along the river. These are perfect for a picnic and letting the kids run around in a safe, local environment.
Hama Museum
Visit the museum to see local mosaics and artifacts. It is small enough to navigate quickly without overwhelming the children's attention spans.
Taste Hama’s Famous Halawet el-Jibn
Don't leave without trying this sweet cheese dessert at a local parlor; Hama is the undisputed capital of this delicious treat.
Day 6: Aleppo, Syria - The Northern Jewel
Travel to Aleppo
The drive north to Aleppo takes about 2 to 2.5 hours. Use this time for a nap or to enjoy the changing landscape of Northern Syria.
Hotel Check-in & Lunch
Check into a hotel in the Al-Jdeideh quarter, known for its beautiful architecture and proximity to the city's main landmarks.
Aleppo Public Park
Visit the city’s large central park. It’s a great spot for kids to play and interact with local families, offering a glimpse into everyday Aleppine life.
Dinner in the Christian Quarter
The Al-Jdeideh district has been beautifully restored. Enjoy dinner in one of the boutique courtyard restaurants known for Aleppo's world-class culinary heritage.
Day 7: Aleppo, Syria - Citadel and Souqs
The Aleppo Citadel
Explore this massive medieval fortified palace. The view of the city from the amphitheater inside is breathtaking and highly educational for visitors of all ages.
The Great Mosque of Aleppo
Visit the historic mosque currently undergoing restoration. Witnessing the craftsmanship involved in the rebuilding process is a unique and moving experience.
Souq Al-Madina
Wander through parts of the world's largest covered market. While some areas are still being rebuilt, the atmosphere of trade and spice remains vibrant and sensory.
Baron Hotel Tea
Visit the historic Baron Hotel, where Agatha Christie once stayed, for a quick afternoon tea and a trip back in time through its vintage lobby.
Day 8: Latakia, Syria - Mediterranean Relaxation
Drive to the Coast
Travel through the scenic coastal mountains toward Latakia. This 3-hour drive offers lush greenery and a refreshing change from the interior cities.
Ugarit Ruins (Ras Shamra)
Visit the site where the world's first alphabet was discovered. The ruins are open and easy for children to walk through, providing a great outdoor history lesson.
Beach Time at the Blue Coast
Head to a private resort beach. The Mediterranean waters in Latakia are calm and shallow, making it perfect for kids to swim safely.
Seafood Feast
Latakia is famous for its fresh seafood. Enjoy a final festive dinner by the water as the sun sets over the Mediterranean.
Day 9: Latakia/Damascus, Syria - Departure
Morning Corniche Stroll
Take a final relaxed walk along the Latakia waterfront. It’s a great place for kids to watch the fishing boats and enjoy the sea breeze.
Souvenir Shopping
Pick up some local Latakia tobacco, olive oil soap, or coastal handicrafts to bring a piece of Syria home with you.
Return Drive to Damascus
The drive back to the capital or the airport takes about 4 hours. It is a good time for the family to rest before the final departure.
Final Departure Prep
Arrive at the airport or your final Damascus hotel. Reflect on a week of deep history and newfound friendships in the heart of the Levant.
Best Time to Visit Syria
The ideal times to visit Syria are during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, making long walks in the Old Cities and visits to outdoor ruins comfortable for children. Summers can be quite hot, especially in the interior cities like Damascus and Hama, while winters can be surprisingly chilly with occasional rain.
Currency & Money
The official currency is the Syrian Pound (SYP). It is important to note that Syria is primarily a cash-based economy. International credit and debit cards generally do not work at ATMs or in shops due to sanctions. It is highly recommended to carry enough cash (USD or EUR) to exchange at official exchange offices upon arrival. Tipping is customary in restaurants and for drivers/guides and is greatly appreciated.
Getting Around Syria
For families, the most efficient and comfortable way to travel between cities is via private car and driver, which can be arranged through local travel agencies. There are also comfortable intercity buses operated by companies like Al-Kadamus. While there is a rail network, it is currently limited in service. Within cities like Damascus and Aleppo, taxis are plentiful and affordable, but ensure you agree on a price or use the meter where available.
