• Overall

  If you’ve ever dreamed of travelling through the lands where civilisation began - crossing from ancient Mesopotamia to the heart of the Levant – this special Iraq and Syria Christmas Tour is for you.

  Over two incredible weeks, our Iraq group tour and Syria group tour combine to bring you face to face with the region’s history, culture, and unmatched hospitality. Guided by experts who bring context, safety, and connection to every stop, you’ll celebrate Christmas in Damascus and walk ancient cities and streets, retracing the footsteps of prophets, poets, and kings.

  Iraq Tour

  Our journey begins in Iraq, the land of ancient Mesopotamia.

  From the capital Baghdad, we explore a city where tradition and modern life meet. Through book markets, riverside cafés, and the treasures of the National Museum.

  We travel south to the holy cities of Karbala and Najaf, where millions of pilgrims gather each year, and walk through the ruins of Babylon, Ur, and Uruk. The very places where writing and cities were born!

  In the far south, we glide through the Marshes of Mesopotamia, meeting families who still live in reed houses on the water, before reaching Basra, Iraq’s gateway to the Gulf.

  Lebanon & Syria

  We then go to Lebanon, where you will have a couple of days to explore and prepare to cross into Syria.

  From Beirut, we drive to Damascus, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities on Earth.

  We’ll wander along Straight Street, visit the Umayyad Mosque and Ananias Church, and share tea with locals at Al Nofara Café, where the city’s legendary storyteller still performs.

  We continue south to Bosra, home to the world’s best-preserved Roman theatre, then north through mountain landscapes to Mar Musa Monastery, Homs, and Aleppo.

  In Aleppo, we explore the grand citadel, restored souks, and the traditional soap factories the city is famous for.

  We’ll visit the mighty Krak des Chevaliers, sample local wines in the Homs countryside, and spend a night in the picturesque Christian village of Al Mishtaya.

  Our journey ends in Palmyra, once a jewel of the Silk Road and the seat of Queen Zenobia’s empire. 

  Looking for something shorter?
  Join either one of our Iraq or Syria group tours separately.

  Highlights

  • 3 Countries, 1 Tour! | Visit 3 incredible countries hassle-free, and enjoy the highlights in a short period of time, all in the company of new friends - over Christmas time!
     
  • Capitals Baghdad, Beirut, and Damascus | Three incredible, historic capital cities of 3 countries full of culture. 
     
  • Historic and Religious Sites | Uruk and Ur, Babylon, Bosra, Palmyra, Karbala and Najaf. Places you read about in the history books! 

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• Itinerary

  Briefing Day

  1. December 16 | Thursday

     Briefing Night in Beirut

     Arrival in Beirut

     • Arrive at Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY) throughout the day. Beirut is served by major European and 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 | Crowne Plaza Hotel, 5* hotel located in Central Hamra, Beirut  

     Included Meals | N/A

  2. December 17 | Friday

     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. December 18 | Saturday

     Damascus - Bosra - Damascus

     • 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.
        
     • 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.

     Drive to Bosra

     • In the afternoon, we head south through the lush, fertile plains to the ancient city of Bosra al-Sham (also Busra / Busra al-sham).
        
     • Bosra is certainly 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. 
        
     • Drive back to Damascus.

     Accommodation | Mamluka Hotel 5* or similar, Damascus

     Included Meals | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  4. December 19 | Sunday

     Damascus to Aleppo

     Mar Musa

     • Our second stop along the road will be Deir 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.

     Homs

     • Following this, we’ll head to 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.
        
     • Lunch in Homs City.

     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. December 20 | Monday

     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. December 21 | Tuesday

     Aleppo - Idlib - Hama - Krak Des Chaveliers - Homs Countryside

     Idlib

     • 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.

     Hama

     • Drive south to Hama. Here, we'll visit the iconic waterwheels that once played a crucial role in providing water to the surrounding land. 

     Krak des Chevaliers

     • Krak des Chevaliers | After that, we'll continue our journey to Krak des Chevaliers, which is 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.

     Jarjour winery

     • Jarjour Winery | We'll drive through the picturesque rural villages of the Homs Valley, heading to the renowned Jarjour winery, which is famous for its unique blue wine.
        
     • Here, we'll enjoy a wine and cheese tasting, immersing ourselves in the flavours of the region.

     Almishtaya

     • Afterwards, we take a short drive to the Christian village of Almishtaya, known for its vibrant nightlife. Indeed, you can experience the lively atmosphere and enjoy the evening in one of Syria's most charming villages.

     Overnight in Homs Countryside

     • Finally, we have an overnight stay in a 4-star hotel in Al Mishtaya-Homs countryside.

     Accommodation | Hotel in Homs Countryside

     Included Meals | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  7. December 22 | Wednesday

     Al Mishtaya - Palmyra - Damascus

     • 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 | Traditional Hotel in Damascus Old Town

     Included Meals | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  8. December 23 | Thursday

     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 | Crowne Plaza Hotel, 5* hotel located in Central Hamra, Beirut  

     Included Meals | Breakfast, Lunch

  9. December 24 | Friday

     Christmas Eve in Beirut

     • Lebanon is home to the largest Christian population in the Arab world relative to its population, with Beirut's history shaped by Catholics, Orthodoxs, and Protestants. The largest denomination is the Maronite Catholic Church, which is indigenous to the Levant and uses Syriac in its liturgy. In Beirut, the holiday transcends religious boundaries, with Muslims and Christians often celebrating together as a shared national tradition.
        
     • Free time at own leisure | Spend your day exploring the festive displays in Sassine Square or browsing the stalls at a local Christmas market in Downtown. Try some seasonal treats like Meghli, a spiced rice pudding traditionally made to celebrate newborns, or Bûche de Noël, a chocolate log cake that reflects the country's French cultural influence.
        
     • Optional Attendance at Midnight Mass | You may choose to attend a traditional Midnight Mass, a central ritual for Lebanese Christians that symbolises spiritual renewal and communal resilience. Lebanese services are deeply rooted in ancient traditions, often featuring the chanting of carols in Arabic, French, and occasionally Syriac.

     Accommodation | Crowne Plaza Hotel, 5* hotel located in Central Hamra, Beirut  

     Included Meals | Breakfast

  10. December 25 | Saturday

      Departure from Lebanon - Iraq

      Flight Departures from Beirut Airport & Continue to Iraq

      • You will be transferred to Beirut Airport.
         
      • Departure from Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY). Arrive in Lebanon in the afternoon/evening. Flights are not included. You must book your own Beirut (BEY) - Baghdad (BGW) flight, but we will give you guidance and let you know which flight we suggest.
         
      • Arrival into Iraq and free time to explore. Ask your tour leader for suggestions for food and activities based on your preferences! 

      Accommodation | Hotel in Baghdad

      Included Meals | Breakfast

  11. December 26 | Sunday 

      Baghdad 

      Time at own Leisure

      • Today is yours to explore the rich, complex layers of Baghdad’s history. Ask your tour leader for recommendations!

      Dinner

      • Meet your new group members and enjoy an evening walk and dinner in front of the Tigris River.

      Accommodation | Hotel in Baghdad
      Included Meals | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  12. December 27 | Monday

      Baghdad

      Baghdad City Tour

      • Iraqi National Museum | Visit the Iraqi National Museum to get introduced to Iraqi culture and history throughout the years. This museum houses a vast collection of artefacts from Mesopotamian civilisations, including Sumerian, Akkadian, Babylonian, and Assyrian relics. It is considered one of the most important museums in the Middle East.
         
      • Mutanabi Street and Old Baghdad | Explore the old part of Baghdad. Visit Mutanabi Street, known as the Book Street, along with the antique market and the old copper market. It is named after the 10th-century poet Al-Mutanabi.
         
      • Tea and Coffee Stop in Old Baghdad | Stop at one of Baghdad’s most famous tea and coffee shops for lemon tea or shisha!
         
      • Mustansiriya School | Visit Mustansiriya School, one of the oldest remaining schools in the world. The Mustansiriya Madrasa was established in the 13th century and served as an important educational institution during the Abbasid era.
         
      • Baghdad Green Zone | Drive through Baghdad’s Green Zone.
         
      • Save the Iraqi Culture Monument | Visit a monument dedicated to Iraqi culture and history.
         
      • Martyrs Monument | Visit the Martyrs Monument at sunset. The large blue-domed structure was built in the 1980s to commemorate Iraqis who died in past wars and stands as a symbol of national remembrance.
         
      • Dinner in the new part of Baghdad.

      Accommodation | Hotel in Baghdad
      Included Meals | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  13. December 28 | Tuesday 

      Babylon & Karbala 

      Karbala Day Visit 

      • Drive to Karbala.
      • Lunch at a local farm.

      Babylon

      • Ancient City of Babylon | Babylon was one of the most important cities of ancient Mesopotamia and is known for being the capital of Hammurabi and Nebuchadnezzar II. It is associated with major cultural achievements, including the Code of Hammurabi and the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
         
      • Saddam’s Palace | Visit Saddam Hussein's palace, a remnant from his regime, and enjoy views overlooking the ancient city

      Karbala

      • Karbala is a holy city for Shia Muslims and the site of the shrine of Imam Hussein. It is the focal point of the Arbaeen pilgrimage, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world.
         
      • Imam Hussein’s Shrine | Visit Imam Hussein’s Shrine, which marks the burial place of the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, martyred at the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. Here you will learn why it is one of the most important cities in Iraq religiously, with the largest annual gathering in the world.
         
      • Dinner and overnight in Karbala.

      Accommodation | Hotel in Karbala
      Included Meals | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  14. December 29 | Wednesday 

      Karbala to Najaf

      Drive to Najaf

      • Ezekiel Tomb | Visit the Ezekiel Tomb, believed to be the burial place of the biblical prophet Ezekiel. The site contains Hebrew inscriptions and was historically shared by Jewish and Muslim communities.
         
      • Daniel’s Market | Explore the old market next to the tomb.
         
      • Ziggurat of Borsippa | Visit the Ziggurat of Borsippa, which is believed by many to be the Tower of Babel.

      Najaf City Tour

      • Old City | Explore Najaf and its Old City, one of the most important cities in the Shia Muslim world.
         
      • Wadi al Salam | Visit Wadi al Salam, meaning "Valley of Peace", the largest cemetery in the world. It has served as a burial site for over 1,400 years and is located in Najaf.
         
      • Market Visit | Visit the market to buy local clothes, abayas, and souvenirs. You'll need this local attire to enter the shrine.
         
      • Imam Ali Shrine | Visit the Imam Ali Shrine, the burial site of Imam Ali, cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad and the first Imam in Shia Islam. The shrine is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Shia Muslims. When we take a look inside the seperated male/female sections, you'll truly be astounded by the colours, lights, and decorations from this fantastic piece of architecture.
         
      • Kufa Mosque | Visit Kufa Mosque, the fourth holiest site for Shia Muslims, with historical and religious signficance due to being associated with Imam Ali and early Islamic history.
         
      • Dinner and overnight in Najaf.

      Accommodation | Hotel in Najaf
      Included Meals | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  15. December 30 | Thursday 

      Najaf to the Iraqi Marshes 

      The Iraqi Marshes & Overnight Stay 

      • City of Ur | Visit the ancient city of Ur, including the Ziggurat Of Ur and the House of the Prophet Abraham. This 4,000-year-old city was once one of the most important Sumerian settlements. According to tradition, it is considered the birthplace of Abraham.
         
      • Travel to the Iraqi Marshes for a late lunch of masquf, traditional Sumerian grilled fish. A vegetarian option is also available.
         
      • Marshes | Visit the UNESCO-listed wetlands where life has changed little over millennia. The Marsh Arabs still live in traditional reed houses and travel by narrow boats along the waterways.
         
      • Boat Trip in the Marshes | Take a sunset boat trip and visit a traditional reed house where we will spend the night.
         
      • Night in the Marshes | Enjoy an evening with snacks and a light dinner around the fire, accompanied by local music surrounded by nature.

      Accommodation | Samarian-style local accommodation in the marshes. Note: This accommodation features local-style sleeping arrangements and is not a hotel. Amenities such as toiletries are not provided, but the experience makes up for it!
      Included Meals | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  16. December 31 | Friday 

      Drive to Baghdad 

      • Ancient City of Uruk | Visit the ancient city of Uruk, considered the birthplace of civilisation and the place of the earliest evidence of written language. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
         
      • Return to Baghdad for the evening.
         
      • Walk alongside the Tigris River and enjoy a farewell dinner in Baghdad.
         
      • Baghdad New Year’s Eve celebrations.

      Accommodation | Hotel in Baghdad
      Included Meals | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  17. January 1 | Saturday 

      Departure from Iraq 

      Flight Departures from Baghdad Airport 

      • You will be transferred to Baghdad International Airport (BGW).
      • Departure from Baghdad International Airport throughout the day.

      Accommodation | N/A
      Included Meals | Breakfast

• Extras

  • Upgrade to your own room (Iraq-Syria Combo)

    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 USD 50 per night. This includes accommodation in Beirut in-between the two countries.

• What is / is not included?

  INCLUDED

  • All accommodation in Iraq, Syria, and Beirut
  • Iraq visa support.
  • Local tour guides in Iraq and Syria.
  • Expert Koryo Tours tour leader throughout the trip. 
  • All transportation within Iraq and Syria. 
  • Airport pick up & drop off
  • All entrance tickets and activities listed.
  • All meals listed. 
  • Water throughout the day. 

  NOT INCLUDED

  • Travel to Iraq.
  • Iraq & Syria visa.
  • Travel insurance (mandatory).
  • Tips for local guides. 
  • Souvenirs.
  • Extra drinks/snacks. 
  • Single supplement rooming (55 USD per night)
  • Flights from Baghdad - Lebanon (around 200 - 350 USD). 
  • Airport pick-up and drop-off in Lebanon. 

• Notes

  The Iraq visa is an e-visa application. We will provide supporting documents and help you make the visa application. The visa (including for VOA) ranges from $160-190 USD. 

  The Syria visa is a visa on arrival. 

  For Lebanon, most countries can enter visa-free. Check your visa requirements before travel. 

  On both of the trips, we aim to see as much as possible in a very short amount of time. Iraq has a lot of history on offer, so of course we want to make the most out of this trip. Because of that, the days may be long and it involves a lot of driving as we make our way from south to north. 

   

Please apply by 30th November, 2027.