13-Day Ultimate Family Travel Guide & Classic Route in Syria
Syria is a land of profound history and legendary hospitality, offering families a chance to walk through the cradle of civilization. This 13-day itinerary focuses on the 'Classic Route'—connecting the oldest inhabited cities in the world—while ensuring the pace remains manageable for those traveling with children.
From the bustling souks of Damascus to the crusader castles and the Mediterranean breeze of Latakia, this guide prioritizes comfort and safety. We have selected stroller-accessible parks, simplified intercity transfers, and highlighted activities that engage young minds without exhausting them.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & Exploring Damascus, Syria
Arrival at Damascus International Airport
Complete your visa formalities and meet your pre-arranged driver. The drive into the city takes about 30-40 minutes through desert landscapes.
Check-in at Talisman Hotel
Relax in a restored Damascene courtyard house. The central fountain and garden provide a calm environment for children to adjust after the flight.
Tishreen Park Walk
Visit the city’s largest public park. It features wide paved paths perfect for strollers and plenty of space for kids to run around local families.
Welcome Dinner in Abu Rummaneh
Enjoy a gentle introduction to Syrian cuisine in this upscale district, known for its well-lit streets and family-friendly restaurants.
Day 2: Damascus, Syria - The Old City Wonders
Umayyad Mosque Exploration
Marvel at the stunning mosaics of one of the world's oldest mosques. The vast courtyard is flat and safe for children to walk around (socks are required).
Al-Hamidiyah Souq
Walk through the covered market. The main thoroughfare is wide enough for strollers, though side alleys can be narrow. Try the famous Bakdash ice cream.
Azem Palace
A beautiful 18th-century palace showcasing Damascene architecture with quiet courtyards and mannequins illustrating traditional life.
Straight Street (Via Recta)
The historic Roman road. It is relatively flat and lined with shops and cafes, making it a comfortable evening stroll for the family.
Day 3: Damascus, Syria - History & Views
National Museum of Damascus
Discover artifacts from across Syria. The outdoor garden is filled with statues and is a great place for kids to explore while parents take in the history.
Tekkiye Suleymaniye
Visit this Ottoman-era complex designed by Sinan. The handicraft market inside offers unique souvenirs in a quiet, car-free environment.
Mount Qasioun Sunset
Drive to the top for a panoramic view of the city. There are cafes where you can sit and enjoy a drink while watching the lights flicker on.
Dinner in Bab Touma
Explore the Christian Quarter's vibrant food scene, which is lively but generally less crowded than the main souks.
Day 4: Maaloula & Saidnaya, Syria - Ancient Traditions
Drive to Maaloula
A 1-hour drive north. This village is famous for its residents who still speak Aramaic, the language of Jesus.
Monastery of Saint Thecla
Walk through the narrow mountain gorge (canyon) leading to the shrine. It is a natural wonder that kids find exciting.
Our Lady of Saidnaya Monastery
Perched on a hill, this monastery offers incredible views. Note that there are many stairs here, so a baby carrier is better than a stroller.
Return to Damascus
Head back to the city for a relaxed evening and early bedtime before the long travel day tomorrow.
Day 5: Homs & Krak des Chevaliers, Syria - Knight's Tales
Drive to Homs
Travel through the Syrian countryside (approx. 2.5 hours). Watch the landscape change as you approach the green valley of Christians.
Krak des Chevaliers Tour
Explore the most famous Crusader castle in the world. Its massive walls and dark tunnels are like a real-life playground for children.
Lunch with a View
Several restaurants overlook the castle. Enjoy local 'Kabab' while resting your legs after the castle climb.
Evening in Marmarita
A charming mountain village near the castle. It is safe, walkable, and very hospitable to international visitors.
Day 6: Tartous, Syria - Coastal Relaxation
Drive to Tartous
A scenic 1.5-hour descent toward the Mediterranean coast. The humidity and breeze are a refreshing change from the interior.
Arwad Island Boat Trip
Take a small boat from the Tartous corniche to Arwad Island. The boat ride is short (20 mins) and a highlight for children.
Explore Arwad Fortress
Walk the car-free streets of the island, see the local shipbuilders, and enjoy fresh seafood right by the water.
Tartous Corniche
The promenade is wide and stroller-friendly. It is the social heart of the city where local families gather in the evenings.
Day 7: Tartous to Latakia, Syria - Mediterranean Views
Drive to Latakia
A short 1-hour drive north along the coastal highway. Keep an eye out for the orange and lemon groves.
Blue Beach (Al-Shati al-Azraq)
Check into your resort and enjoy the sandy beaches. This is the best spot for children to swim and play in a controlled environment.
Latakia City Center
Visit the 'Tishreen Square' and the surrounding shopping streets for a more modern Syrian city experience.
Seafood Dinner
Latakia is famous for its fish. Try the 'Sultan Ibrahim' fish at a local restaurant overlooking the harbor.
Day 8: Latakia, Syria - Ancient Ugarit & Castles
Ugarit Ruins
Visit the site where the world's first alphabet was discovered. The site is relatively flat and easy to navigate with children.
Salah ad-Din Castle
Located in the mountains behind Latakia, this castle is integrated into the rock. It is a stunning site with plenty of shade from the trees.
Latakia National Museum
A smaller, more manageable museum housed in an old Ottoman khan, featuring coastal archaeological finds.
Relax at the Resort
Spend the evening enjoying the hotel amenities and preparing for the move inland tomorrow.
Day 9: Hama, Syria - The Giant Waterwheels
Drive to Hama
A 2.5-hour drive through the Orontes River valley. The road is scenic as you leave the coast behind.
The Norias of Hama
See the giant wooden waterwheels that have been turning for centuries. The sound and scale of them are mesmerizing for all ages.
Azem Palace Hama
Not to be confused with the one in Damascus, this palace also offers beautiful architecture and a peaceful garden by the river.
Public Garden Walk
Hama has several lush parks along the riverbanks which are perfect for a late afternoon stroll with a stroller.
Day 10: Hama to Aleppo, Syria - Into the North
Drive to Aleppo
The final leg of the journey north (approx. 2 hours). Aleppo is Syria's second city and its culinary capital.
Check-in at Aleppo
Choose a hotel in the modern districts like Aziziyah, which are lively and have well-maintained sidewalks.
Aleppo Public Park
This is one of the largest and most beautiful parks in Syria. It's a great place to meet locals and let kids play on the equipment.
Aleppo Culinary Tour
Try the famous Aleppo Cherry Kebab. Many restaurants are very welcoming to children and have high chairs available.
Day 11: Aleppo, Syria - The Great Citadel
Aleppo Citadel
The crowning jewel of the city. Most of the main path is paved, making it accessible, though the climb is steady. The view from the top is unmatched.
Old City Souks
Parts of the historic souk are being beautifully restored. It is a sensory experience with the smell of laurel soap and spices.
Great Mosque of Aleppo
Observe the ongoing restoration efforts of this landmark. It remains a focal point of the city's identity.
Al-Hatab Square
A lively square in the Jdeideh quarter, perfect for a coffee while the kids watch the world go by.
Day 12: Aleppo, Syria - Modern Life & Shopping
Baron Hotel Visit
Have tea at the hotel where Agatha Christie stayed. It's a walk through history and much quieter than the souks.
Mogambo District Shopping
Explore the modern side of Aleppo with its boutiques and cafes. The sidewalks here are generally stroller-friendly.
Qal'at al-Sharif Neighborhood
A charming area near the citadel with traditional houses and narrow but quiet streets.
Farewell Dinner
Celebrate your final night in Aleppo with a traditional 'Mezze' feast at a local favorite like Beit Sissi.
Day 13: Aleppo to Damascus, Syria - Departure
Long Drive to Damascus
The drive back to the capital takes about 4.5 to 5 hours. Schedule a comfortable private van with plenty of stops for snacks.
Late Lunch in Damascus
One last taste of Damascene Falafel or Shawarma before heading toward the airport.
Last Minute Souvenirs
Visit the Souq al-Khayrat for any final spices or sweets to take home.
Airport Transfer
Arrive at the airport 3 hours before your flight to navigate security and check-in smoothly with the family.
Best Time to Visit Syria
The best time to visit Syria is during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is mild enough for long days of sightseeing without the intense heat of the summer or the biting cold of the desert winters. For families, spring is particularly lovely as the countryside is green and the parks are in full bloom.
Currency & Money
The local currency is the Syrian Pound (SYP). Due to international sanctions, foreign credit and debit cards do not work in Syria. You must bring all the cash you need in USD or Euros and exchange them at official exchange offices or banks. Tipping is customary in restaurants and for guides/drivers; usually, 10% is appreciated. Always carry small denominations for souk purchases.
Getting Around Syria
For a 13-day family trip, the most efficient and comfortable way to travel between cities is via a private car with a driver. This allows for flexible stops and much-needed climate control. While there are public buses (called 'Pullmans') that connect major cities like Damascus, Homs, and Aleppo, they are less flexible for those with strollers and children. Domestic flights are limited and often fully booked well in advance.
