Syria VII
Syria
Mar 30th, 2026 – Apr 5th, 2026
7 days · 6 nights
Syria
Wander Expeditions
5+ years group traveling
Itinerary
Day 1: Journey to Damascus
Meet and assist with private vehicle pick-up from Beirut. Begin an immersive city tour of Old Damascus. We'll explore cultural and historical landmarks such as Azem Palace, the majestic Omayyad Mosque, the Church of St. Ananias, the Straight Street, Asaad Basha Khan, and stroll through the bustling Hamidiah Bazaar.
Overnight: Beit Alwali, Damascus (five-star hotel, known as the most beautiful place to stay in the city)
Day 2: Busra
After breakfast, we head to the ancient city of Busra, once the capital of the Roman province of Arabia and a key stop on the caravan route to Mecca. Explore the impressive 2nd-century Roman theatre, early Christian ruins, and several ancient mosques.
Overnight: Mishtaya village (near Homs)
Day 3: Palmyra & Homs
Morning departure to the legendary ruins of Palmyra, once a flourishing cultural hub in the ancient world. We'll witness both the grandeur and the scars left by ISIS. In the afternoon, we continue to Homs for a local culinary experience with a Syrian family, followed by a visit to Saint Mary Church of the Holy Belt and a reflection on the destruction faced by the city.
Overnight: Alwadi Hotel, Mishtaya village
Day 4: Krak des Chevaliers, Hama & Aleppo
After breakfast, we visit Krak des Chevaliers, one of the best-preserved medieval crusader castles in the world, dating back to the 11th century. After lunch with a panoramic view, we head to Hama to see the iconic Norias (ancient waterwheels). Then we continue to Aleppo for dinner.
Overnight: Aleppo Palace Hotel
Day 5: Aleppo
Explore Aleppo’s rich cultural heritage, starting with the famous Citadel of Aleppo—one of the largest and oldest castles in the world. We’ll then wander through the narrow streets of the old city and explore its markets and historical gems.
Overnight: Aleppo Palace Hotel
Day 6: Saydnaya, Maaloula & Damascus
After breakfast, we travel to Maaloula, a village where Aramaic—the language of Christ—is still spoken. Visit the Monastery of Saint Thecla and walk through the narrow mountain path named after her, followed by the Monastery of Saints Sergius and Bacchus. Next, visit Saydnaya and the revered All-Holy Virgin Monastery. Return to Damascus in the evening.
Overnight: Beit Alwali Hotel, Damascus
Day 7: Damascus to Beirut
Free morning in Damascus for last-minute shopping or relaxation. Around noon, transfer back to Beirut.
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