Tourism in Damascus: A Journey Through Time
Tourism in Damascus is truly a journey through time. Its narrow alleys and ancient buildings take you on a stroll through generations of overlapping civilizations, each of which has left its mark on every corner. Thanks to an enchanting atmosphere that blends the warmth of Damascene hospitality with the authenticity of its ancient markets, Damascus holds a distinguished place among the most beautiful Arab cities, offering visitors a unique mix of entertainment, culture, and relaxation.
Top Attractions in Damascus
Damascus is packed with landmarks you simply can’t miss, and indeed, each one tells a story that spans thousands of years. Therefore, here is a list of the must-see sites during your visit:
- Damascus Citadel: A historic fortress at the entrance of the Old City, reflecting the strength of ancient military architecture.
- The Umayyad Mosque: A testament to the greatness of Islamic architecture and, moreover, one of the most beautiful religious monuments in the world.
- Mount Qasioun: The ideal spot to view all of Damascus from above, especially at sunset, when the city lights begin to glow.
- Azm Palace: A stunning example of old Damascene architecture and the grandeur of traditional Damascene houses.
- Sarouja Quarter: Known as “Little Istanbul” for its distinctive Ottoman-era architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
Markets and Shopping
No trip to Damascus is complete without shopping in its markets, which are filled with the scent of spices and jasmine. In addition, you’ll find some of the finest handcrafted goods there:
- Al-Hamidiyah Souq: The most famous market in the East, where you can buy textiles, leather goods, and Damascus’s renowned sweets.
- Al-Bzouriyah Souq: The perfect place for lovers of spices, perfumes, and medicinal herbs.
- Modern malls: If you prefer international brands, however, you can visit “Damascus City Mall” or “Town Center” for a modern shopping experience.
Heritage Restaurants and Local Cuisine
Damascene cuisine needs no introduction. Meanwhile, dining in an old Damascene house is an experience in itself when visiting the city:
- Old Damascus restaurants: Such as “Naranj” or “Beit Jabri”, where, for example, you can enjoy a courtyard fountain alongside authentic Damascene dishes.
- Bouza Al-Jadi: For tasting the famous local “Fatteh” dish.
- Bakdash Ice Cream: A visit to Al-Hamidiyah Souq inevitably means trying Arabic hand-pounded ice cream, which is topped with Aleppo pistachios.
Hotels in Damascus: Where to Stay
Safarji offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget, and importantly, all come with a guarantee of high quality:
- Boutique hotels: Old Damascus hotels that give you the feeling of living in the era of kings.
- International hotels: Such as “Damarose” or “Sheraton Damascus”, for instance, for those seeking luxury and full-service amenities.
- Budget-friendly hotels: We also offer partnerships with clean, comfortable hotels at very competitive prices right in the heart of the city.
Suggested 3-Day Itinerary in Damascus
To help you make the most of your time, Safarji suggests the following program:
- Day 1: A full tour of Old Damascus (the Umayyad Mosque, Al-Hamidiyah Souq, lunch at a heritage restaurant), then ending the day at Mount Qasioun.
- Day 2: Visit the museums (National Museum), after that, head to nearby rural Damascus areas like Saidnaya and Maaloula to explore the historic monasteries.
- Day 3: A shopping tour through the modern markets, followed by time to relax at one of the traditional souq bathhouses, and finally, a last Damascene evening out.
Safarji’s Tip for Visitors to Damascus
Overall, getting around Damascus becomes much easier with our private fleet of vehicles and drivers who have extensive knowledge of the city’s hidden corners. As a result, we guarantee your comfort, safety, and privacy — especially when moving between Old Damascus and the surrounding countryside.
