JOURNEY THROUGH SYRIA

• Short description
• Basic information
• The program
• A map of the tour
• How to join us
• Ask for more information

Short description

In October 2022 and October 2023, Thousand Voyages led two groups to Syria on this program, with a total of 15 participants. As the company owner and tour leader for both groups, I (Pavel) have grown to deeply appreciate Syria—it has become one of my favorite travel destinations.

This comprehensive tour of Syria showcases the country's most fascinating historical sites and cultural landmarks. Beginning and ending in Beirut, Lebanon, the journey includes brief visits to Beirut's historic center and the ancient ruins of Baalbek.

Our first stop is Damascus, where we explore the National Museum, Umayyad Mosque, Tomb of Saladin, Azem Palace, Old Market Hall, and the city's impressive fortress gates.

Near the Jordanian border lies Bosra, home to a remarkably preserved Roman amphitheater. We then venture across the Syrian desert to the ancient city of Palmyra. Our journey continues to Homs, where we visit the Khaled Ibn Al Waled Mosque before exploring the "Valley of Christians" with its magnificent Krak des Chevaliers fortress and Saint George monastery.

Along the Mediterranean coast, we visit Tartus to explore its Citadel and the Cathedral of Our Lady of Tortosa, enjoying the coastal boulevard. In Latakia, we discover the Tetraporticus (Triumphal Arch of Septimius Severus), Temple of Bacchus ruins, and the Latin Church. Beach lovers can opt for leisure time by the sea.

In historic Aleppo, we explore its imposing Citadel, museum, covered market, Baron Hotel, Umayyad Mosque, and other notable sites.

Our final leg takes us to Hama, known for its ancient water wheels (Norias), old city, and vibrant Bedouin market. Before returning to Damascus, we visit the ancient Christian villages of Sednaya and Maalula to explore their monasteries. The journey concludes with a transfer to Beirut for departure.

All photographs shown here were taken during our travels through Syria and Lebanon.

Basic information

This program provides an overview of the trip’s key details. If you need a solution tailored to your specific circumstances, please contact us via email. We can arrange flights from anywhere in the world to the trip’s starting point, as well as airport/hotel transfers and any required documents. Our team will support you throughout the entire planning process. Feel free to reach out via email!

The program

Day 1: Arrival in Beirut

Upon arrival in Beirut, we'll head to our hotel in Hamra, the vibrant tourist district home to numerous hotels and restaurants. We'll take a brief stroll around the area to get our bearings, though we won't embark on a detailed tour of Beirut. Overnight stay in Beirut.

Our group will fly from Istanbul Airport to Beirut. If all group members fly through Istanbul, we may meet there. Otherwise, we'll meet at the hotel in Beirut. We'll provide the necessary information about the hotel's name, address, and meeting time.

Day 2: From Beirut to Damascus via Baalbek

We'll set off for Damascus today, making a stop at the magnificent temple complex of Baalbek en route. This UNESCO World Heritage site features the impressive Temple of Bacchus and Temple of Jupiter. After crossing the Syrian border, we'll reach Damascus in the early evening. We'll stretch our legs with a short walk before settling in for the night in this ancient city.

Day 3: Exploring Damascus

Today is devoted to discovering Damascus. We'll visit the National Museum, marvel at the Umayyad Mosque, pay respects at Saladin's Tomb, wander through the Azem Palace, haggle in the old covered market, admire the fortress gates, and explore several other fascinating sights. We'll spend the night in Damascus.

Day 4: Journey to Bosra

We'll embark on a two-hour drive to Bosra, situated near the Jordanian border. Once the capital of the Roman province of Arabia, Bosra was a crucial stop on the ancient caravan route to Mecca. The city boasts an exceptionally well-preserved Roman theatre from the 2nd century, intriguing early Christian ruins, and several historic mosques.

In the afternoon, we will return to Damascus to continue exploring the city. We will spend the night in Damascus.

Day 5: Palmyra

Today, we'll journey from Damascus into the Syrian desert to visit Palmyra, an ancient city dating back to the third millennium BC. This historic metropolis was a vital center in the Middle East and a crucial trading post along the Silk Road. Palmyra's architecture uniquely blends Greco-Roman styles with Persian and Arabian influences, making it one of the most significant archaeological sites in Syria, the Middle East, and indeed, the world.

After exploring Palmyra, we'll head west to Homs, where we'll make a stop at the impressive Khaled Ibn Al Waled Mosque. As the day draws to a close, we'll arrive at the "Valley of the Christians" (Wadi al-Nasara), our resting place for the night.

Day 6: The Valley of Christians (Wadi al-Nasara), Krak des Chevaliers, and St. George Monastery; Tartus; Latakia

Today, we'll explore the main attractions of the "Valley of Christians" — the magnificent Krak des Chevaliers fortress and the historic St. George Monastery.

We'll continue to the coastal city of Tartus, where we'll visit the Citadel, the Cathedral of Our Lady of Tortosa, and enjoy a stroll along the seaside boulevard.

Next, we'll head to Latakia, a picturesque city on the Mediterranean coast. This evening, we'll have time for a brief walk and a quick dinner before retiring for the night in Latakia.

Day 7: Latakia

Today, we'll explore Latakia in depth. Our itinerary includes the Latakia Tetraporticus (Triumphal Arch of Septimius Severus), erected to honor the Roman Emperor, the ruins of the Temple of Bacchus, and the Latin Church. If time allows, we'll visit additional sites.

In the late afternoon, we'll drive to Aleppo for our overnight stay.

Day 8: Aleppo

We'll dedicate today to Aleppo, Syria's second-largest city. Our tour will encompass the Citadel and its museum, the covered market, the historic Baron Hotel, the Umayyad Mosque, and several other fascinating locations. We'll spend another night in Aleppo.

Day 9: Hama; Christian Villages of Sednaya and Maaloula

Today, we will head south with our first stop in the city of Hama. Here, we will visit the old mills in the center, explore the old town, and peruse the Bedouin market.

Our next stop will be the ancient Christian villages of Sednaya and Maaloula, renowned for their historic monasteries.

In the evening, we'll make our way back to Damascus for the night.

Day 10 Transfer to Beirut.

Today we will have a transfer to Beirut airport.

A map of the tour

How to join us

Please email us for information about this trip or to reserve your spot. We'll respond promptly and keep you updated on all trip details and arrangements. If you have a group of 5–8 people ready to travel, we can discuss dates that work for you. You can also join our waiting list for future planned trips by simply sending us your names.

Ask for more information

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All photos and video footage across my websites are authentic and taken by me personally. They are not available anywhere else.