• Overall

  If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring one of the world’s oldest civilisations, walking through streets that have witnessed millennia of history, and sharing warm meals with locals who embody the spirit of resilience, then this journey through Syria is for you, as Koryo Tours travels to Syria! 

  Probably one of the most underrated countries to travel to in the world. 

  Over 12 days, we’ll travel from bustling Beirut to Damascus, Aleppo, Palmyra, and beyond - as you visit the homes of locals, take part in cooking classes, explore ancient wonders and medieval castles on foot, stay in incredible traditional hotels, and end the day relaxing in Syria's only speakeasy...

  Our adventure begins in Damascus, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities on Earth, and our exploration takes us from the underground Ananias Church to the Roman Straight Street, to sipping tea in Al Nofara (the city’s oldest café) and listening to the legendary storyteller who still performs there. 

  Heading north, we pass through Maaloula, where the ancient Aramaic language still lives on, and visit its breathtaking Mar Musa Monastery, perched high in the mountains. In Hama, the great waterwheels turn as they have for centuries - before our tour to Syria arrives in Aleppo.

  Once the rival of Damascus as the oldest continuously inhabited city, Aleppo is full of contrasts: historic citadels, restored markets, and the poignant scars of war. Highlights here include visiting the traditional Aleppo Soap factories (home to the world's largest soap!), and watching the sunset from a secret lookout before feasting on falafel, said to be the best in the world.

  Our Syria tour then takes us west toward the coast to Lattakia. Along the way, we’ll stop at the mighty Citadel of Salah ad-Din, before continuing to Burj Islam’s rocky beaches. We also visit the ancient ruins of Ugarit (where the world’s first alphabet was discovered) and the mighty Crusader stronghold of Marqab Castle.

  We then make a stop at Tartous and Syria's only island - Arwad Island.

  Of course, no tour to Syria would be complete without Krak des Chevaliers, described by Lawrence of Arabia as “the most wholly admirable castle in the world.” In Homs, where we’ll see both Islamic and Christian landmarks and experience the resilience of a city that has endured so much.

  And saving perhaps the most iconic site of all to last - Palmyra.

  Once a key Silk Road site and home to Queen Zenobia’s short-lived empire. Unfortunately, it was largely destroyed by ISIS, but there is still plenty to explore. We wander through its great colonnades, amphitheatre, and temples. And round it all off by enjoying lunch in a Bedouin tent restaurant, hosted by a local family.

  Our tour to Syria ends with a visit to Bosra al-Sham, home to the world’s best-preserved Roman theatre. 

  Highlights

  • Palymera | The ancient city and Roman Ruins. 
  • Krak Des Chevaliers | One of the most important preserved medieval castles in the world from the 11th Century, where we explore its towers and chambers. 
  • Damascus & Aleppo | The Old Town of Damascus, the Umayyad Mosque, the bustling Souk al-Hamidiye, the exquisite Azem Palace... and explore Syria's second largest city of Aleppo including the famous citadel. 

  click image to expand

• Itinerary

  Briefing Day

  1. February 20 | Friday

     Briefing Night in Beirut

     Arrival in Beirut

     • Arrive at Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY) throughout the day. Beirut is served by major European, Middle Eastern carriers, and the local airline MEA-Middle East Airlines from various destinations, well-connected with the rest of the world.

     Welcome Dinner & Pre-Tour Briefing

     • We will gather for some excellent Lebanese food and a pre-tour briefing tonight before the adventure ahead.

      

     Accommodation | 4/5* Hotel in Central Hamra, Beirut  

     Included Meals | N/A

  2. February 21 | Saturday

     Into Syria

     Beirut to Damascus Scenic Drive

     • We will leave early from the Lebanese capital on a scenic drive to the Syrian border, and onward to Damascus. This is a ca. 4-hour-long drive, including formalities at the Lebanon-Syria border.
        
     • Check in and a short recharge at our hotel in Damascus.

     The Historic Old Town of Damascus

     • Ananias Church | The oldest underground structure of Damascus and the presumed remains of Ananias of Damascus' home, where Saul was baptised, who is known today as Paul the Apostle.
        
     • Straight Street | Also known by its Latin name, Via Recta, is the Roman street that runs from East to West in Damascus' Old Town. The street has several sites dating back to the Roman, Christian, and Islamic periods, and according to the Book of Acts, St. Paul also visited here.
        
     • Al Nofara | The oldest café in Damascus, where we will listen to the famous storyteller.
        
     • Dinner will be at Naerj, the best restaurant in Damascus Old Town, where you are guaranteed to have one of the best meals of your life.
        
     • Optional evening scrub at a historic Hamam.

      

     Accommodation | Mamluka Hotel 5* or similar, Damascus.

     Included Meals | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  3. February 22 | Sunday

     Damascus City Tour

     • National Museum | Here, we will gain an overview of the civilisations that have thrived on Syrian soil. It exhibits statues, seals, jewellery, masks, mosaics, tablets, and weavings from the most important sites in the country.
        
     • Handicraft Market | Home to some of the finest handmade goods in
       the Middle East.
        
     • Souk Al-Hamidiye | The most beautiful souk of Damascus. Its shops display a wide range of goods, including clothes, fabrics, pastries, and handicrafts.
        
     • Umayyad Mosque | A historic site of worship, dating back to the first millennium BCE, it was once a church and is now one of the most important mosques in the World.
        
     • Azem Palace | A beautifully preserved example of a traditional Damascene house turned Ottoman-era museum.
        
     • Ghouta Area | A site of chemical weapons attack by the Assad regime, a poignant reminder of the region's history and the resilience of its people.
        
     • Mount Qasioun | The highest peak in Damascus, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire city. We will also discover some hidden gems in the city, such as Al Qashleh Café, known for its vibrant atmosphere and popularity with Syria's younger crowd.
        
     • Speakeasy | Additionally, we will stop by The Barber Shop, the only speakeasy place in Syria, offering a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

     Accommodation | Mamluka Hotel 5* or similar, Damascus

     Included Meals | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  4. February 23 | Monday

     Damascus to Aleppo

     Maaloula

     • The first stop on the route to Aleppo will be Maaloula, a small Christian town that suffered immense destruction by ISIS in 2014. Despite this, it remains one of the most scenic villages in Syria and is the only place in the world where Aramaic, the language spoken by Jesus, is still actively used as a living language.

     Mar Musa

     • Our second stop along the road will be Mar Musa, a breathtaking 6^th-century monastery perched among rugged mountains.
        
     • Shaped like a towering fortress, this ancient site was founded by Mar Musa al-Habashi (Saint Moses of Abyssinia), who, according to legend, was the son of an Ethiopian king.

     Hama

     • Our last stop before reaching Aleppo will be Hama, where we'll visit the iconic waterwheels that once played a crucial role in providing water to the surrounding land. These ancient structures are a symbol of the city’s rich history.

     Aleppo

     • Aleppo has been a flourishing metropolis since the 3^rd millennium BCE. The city has been fighting with Damascus for the title of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited city.
        
     • After some exploring of the city, we'll enjoy dinner at Qurtuba, a renowned Syrian restaurant run by an Armenian family, known for its authentic flavours and warm atmosphere.

     Accommodation | Rigga Hotel 4* or similar, Aleppo

     Included Meals | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  5. February 24 | Tuesday

     Aleppo

     • Aleppo Castle | Located in the middle of the city, the castle dominates Aleppo from a height of fifty meters. Its admirably designed towers, along with its iron gates, are distinguished by their entrances made with perfection to prevent any enemy intrusion.
        
     • Aleppo Market | Stretching from the front of the castle to the old city, we'll witness the contrast between the destroyed areas, the active restoration sites, and the fully renovated section, which now looks stunning.
        
     • Abu Hagoub Restaurant | As Aleppo is renowned for its spicy sausage, we will have lunch at this famous restaurant to sample the best sausage sandwiches in the city.
        
     • Umayyad Mosque | The largest and one of the oldest mosques in the city, which is currently in the final stages of restoration.
        
     • Al-Jubaili Soap Factory | The oldest soap factory in Aleppo, where you'll have the opportunity to witness the traditional process of crafting the world-famous laurel Aleppo soap, renowned for its quality and history. We will also visit a soap exhibition where you can touch the largest bar of soap in the world, according to the Guinness World Records Book.
        
     • For sunset, we will visit one of our secret spots overlooking Aleppo.
        
     • Uncle Hamido's Restaurant | For dinner, we will get the chance to taste what is often hailed as the best falafel in the World.

     Accommodation | Rigga Hotel 4*, Aleppo

     Included Meals | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  6. February 25 | Wednesday

     Aleppo to Lattakia

     • Idlib Governorate | Here, we can observe a unique economic system distinct from other regions, and we will also visit the refugee camps, gaining insight into the challenges faced by displaced families.
        
     • Citadel of Salah ad-Din | Syria’s most breathtaking castle, majestically perched on a rocky hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding green mountains. One of its most remarkable features is a manually excavated moat, a testament to the dedication and skill of its builders.
        
     • This historic fortress has witnessed the influence of multiple civilisations, from the Phoenicians and Byzantines to the Crusaders and the era of Saladin.
        
     • Lattakia | This is where the sea meets the lush green mountains, and it has a lively urban atmosphere.
        
     • Upon arrival, we will explore the city and take in its unique blend of natural beauty and vibrant culture.

     Accommodation | la Mira Hotel 5*, Lattakia

     Included Meals | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  7. February 26 | Thursday

     Lattakia to Tartous

     • Burj Islam | An area renowned for its stunning rocky beaches and crystal-clear blue waters. This picturesque coastal spot also features a breathtaking sea cave, offering a unique and serene natural escape.

     UGARIT

     • Ugarit | A historic coastal town north of Lattakia. Ugarit gained fame with the discovery of clay tablets bearing the world’s oldest known consonantal alphabet.
        
     • The earliest settlement, a large fortified village, dates back to the 8^th millennium BCE. Later, two immense palaces were constructed, containing archives and literary texts that reveal an astonishing diversity of languages and five distinct writing systems, including the Ugaritic script from the 14^th century BCE.
        
     • Marqab Castle | Also known as Margat, a historic Crusader fortress near Baniyas.
        
     • As one of the major strongholds of the Knights Hospitaller, who also controlled Krak des Chevaliers, the two castles communicated via smoke signals or mirrors through Chastel-Blanc (Safita), a smaller intermediary fortress. Perched on a hilltop, Marqab Castle offers breathtaking views of the coastline.
        
     • Tartous | A vibrant city that blends seamlessly with the sea.
     • Tartous is renowned for its lively seafront, lined with dozens of cafés and restaurants offering stunning views and a relaxing ambience.

     Accommodation | Shahin Tower Hotel 4*, Tartous

     Included Meals | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  8. February 27 | Friday

     Tartous to Homs

     • Arwad Island | The only island in Syria. Known for its charming narrow alleys and small houses enclosed within ancient walls.
        
     • Measuring approximately 800 meters in length and 500 meters in width, the Phoenicians settled the island in the early 2^nd millennium BCE. Today, Arwad is renowned for its handmade shipbuilding and thriving fishing industry.
        
     • Amrit | A Phoenician temple, located in Tartous Governorate, dating back to the 3^rd millennium BCE.
        
     • Its unique design features a central altar accessible only by boat, as it is surrounded by water within the temple grounds. The site reflects the grandeur of the Phoenician civilisation along the Syrian coast. Notably, an Olympic stadium is situated nearby.

     KRAK DES CHEVALIERS
      

     • Krak des Chevaliers | This castle was described by Lawrence of Arabia as "the most wholly admirable castle in the world."
        
     • In addition, this medieval crusader fortress is one of the most significant and well-preserved castles from that era, offering a fascinating glimpse into Syrian History.

     HOMS

     • Homs | The most affected city by the war.
     • During our visit, we'll explore the Khaled Ibn Al-Walid Shrine and the St. Mary Church of the Holy Belt, two significant landmarks of the city.

     Accommodation | Al Walid Hotel 3* or similar, Homs (our only 3* hotel of the trip)

     Included Meals | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  9. February 28 | Saturday

     Homs to Damascus

     Palmyra

     • Syria's most iconic tourist destination. Notably, once a key city on the Silk Road, Palmyra briefly ruled its own empire in the 3rd century, stretching from Turkey to Egypt.
        
     • However, despite being well-preserved, much of the city was sadly destroyed during the ISIS occupation in 2015.
        
     • During our tour, we will explore what remains, including the Arch of Triumph, Fakhr ad-Din al-Maani Castle, the Sulphur Spring, the Great Columns, the Theatre, the Agora, and the Tombs.
        
     • We’ll enjoy a delicious lunch in a traditional Bedouin tent restaurant, run by a local family. This is, indeed, a perfect opportunity to savour authentic Syrian cuisine while experiencing the warm hospitality of the region.

     Return to Damascus

     • We will drive back to Damascus, arriving just in time to enjoy a relaxing dinner in the city.

     Accommodation | Rigga Hotel 4* or similar, Damascus

     Included Meals | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  10. March 1 | Sunday

      Busra Al Sham

      • Shrine of Sayyida Zaynab | An important Mosque for Shiaa followers.
         
      • Bosra al-Sham | We will drive south through the lush, fertile plains to this ancient city, home to the best-preserved Roman amphitheatre in the world. We'll explore the city’s rich Roman heritage, including its baths and captivating historical tales.
         
      • Meanwhile, while in the region, we’ll also have the chance to enjoy the renowned Malihi dish, a local speciality.
         
      • After returning to Damascus, we'll wrap up the journey with a memorable final night out.
         
      • Cooking Class | Our last program for the day will be a cooking class and dinner with a Syrian family.

      Accommodation | Rigga Hotel 4* or similar, Damascus

      Included Meals | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  11. March 2 | Monday

      Return to Beirut

      • In the morning, we will cover the remaining attractions in Damascus that might have been left out during the busy previous days.
         
      • We will also have some time for some last-minute shopping.
         
      • Drive back to Beirut. The estimated arrival time in Beirut is 18:00.

      Accommodation | 4/5* Hotel in Central Hamra, Beirut  

      Included Meals | Breakfast, Lunch

  12. March 3 | Tuesday

      Departure Day

      • Departure from Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY) throughout the day to European or Middle Eastern destinations offering connection to the rest of the World.

      Included Meals | Breakfast

• Extras

  • Upgrade to your own room in Syria

    The default rooming option for this tour is a shared hotel room. Each hotel room on tour has two separate beds. If you'd like a room to yourself then you can upgrade for an extra 54 USD per night.

• What is / is not included?

  INCLUDED

  • Return transportation from Beirut to Damascus.
  • 2 nights hotel in Beirut before & after the tour in Syria. 
  • All transportation within Syria (AC bus). 
  • Entrance fees for all sites mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Accommodation every night (4 & 5* hotels, 1x 3* hotel).
  • Local tour guide
  • Koryo Tours tour leader
  • All meals listed (including homemade dinner with a Syrian family + private Arada Show)
  • One 1.5-L bottle of water per day.
  • Permits and all local taxes
  • Syrian land border departure tax

  EXCLUDED

  • Travel to Beirut.
  • Visa fee.
  • Personal expenses such as souvenirs or any optional activities.
  • Extra drinks/snacks at meal times. 
  • Tipping for the guide and driver

• Notes

  All items on this itinerary are subject to change or cancellation depending on the security situation and availability. Koryo Tours takes safety on our tours extremely seriously and it will be prioritised above all else. 

Please apply by 1st February, 2026.