18-Day Ultimate Luxury Escapes Route in Syria
Syria is a land where history breathes through every stone, offering an unparalleled depth for the sophisticated traveler. This 18-day 'Epic Journey' is meticulously crafted to blend the ancient Silk Road charm with modern luxury, ensuring you experience the cradle of civilization without compromising on comfort. From the jasmine-scented courtyards of boutique Damascene palaces to the sun-drenched resorts of the Mediterranean, this is Syria at its most refined.
Traveling through Syria in style means private chauffeured transfers, curated culinary experiences in thousand-year-old districts, and exclusive access to UNESCO World Heritage sites. This itinerary focuses on the 'Golden Axis' of Damascus, Hama, Aleppo, and the coastal regions, providing a safe, logical, and deeply enriching path through one of the world's most misunderstood yet magnificent destinations.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Damascus, Syria - Arrival & Royal Welcome
VIP Airport Arrival
Touch down at Damascus International Airport where your private greeter assists with customs and luggage. Enjoy a luxury transfer in a climate-controlled vehicle to your boutique hotel in the heart of the Old City.
Check-in at Four Seasons Damascus
Relax in the opulent surroundings of the city's premier luxury hotel. Enjoy a light Levantine lunch overlooking the city skyline.
Hamidiyeh Souq Orientation
A gentle introductory stroll through the covered Hamidiyeh Souq. Watch the light filter through the bullet-holed iron roof as you browse silk brocades and artisanal perfumes.
Welcome Dinner at Naranj
Dine at one of the most famous high-end restaurants in the Middle East, specializing in traditional Syrian cuisine with a modern, upscale flair.
Day 2: Damascus, Syria - The Umayyad Heritage
Umayyad Mosque Exploration
Visit the grand Umayyad Mosque, one of the largest and oldest mosques in the world, featuring stunning gold mosaics and the tomb of John the Baptist.
Azem Palace Private Tour
Explore the 18th-century residence of the Ottoman governor, a masterpiece of Damascene architecture featuring exquisite stonework and lush courtyards.
Lunch in the Old City
Enjoy a traditional mezze feast at a restored 17th-century merchant house turned high-end restaurant.
Bakdash Ice Cream Experience
Witness the theatrical pounding of traditional 'Booza' ice cream with pistachios in the heart of the souq.
Day 3: Damascus, Syria - Museums & Modernity
National Museum of Damascus
Spend the morning with a private historian viewing artifacts from Mari, Ugarit, and Palmyra, including the reconstructed synagogue from Dura-Europos.
Artisans of Tekkiye Suleymaniye
Visit the glassblowers and weavers at this beautiful Ottoman-era complex designed by the famous architect Sinan.
Mount Qasioun Sunset
Drive to the summit of Mount Qasioun for a panoramic view of the 'Jasmine City' as the call to prayer echoes across the valley.
Modern Fusion Dining
Experience the contemporary side of Damascus with a dinner at a trendy fusion lounge in the upscale Abu Rummaneh district.
Day 4: Damascus, Syria - The Christian Quarter
Straight Street Walk
Follow the biblical 'Via Recta,' visiting the Chapel of Ananias and the Bab Sharqi gate, tracing the steps of St. Paul.
Luxury Shopping in Salhiyeh
Browse high-end boutiques and jewelry stores in the modern commercial heart of the city.
Afternoon Tea at The Art House
Relax in this boutique hotel and gallery, formerly an old mill, which showcases contemporary Syrian art.
Fine Dining at Haretna
Enjoy upscale Levantine cuisine in a beautifully lit courtyard garden in the Bab Touma district.
Day 5: Damascus to Maaloula - Ancient Aramaic Echoes
Scenic Drive to Maaloula
Depart Damascus for the mountain village of Maaloula, one of the few places on earth where Western Aramaic is still spoken.
Monastery of St. Sergius
Visit the 4th-century monastery and listen to the Lord's Prayer recited in the original language of Christ.
Monastery of St. Thecla
Walk through the narrow mountain cleft (faj) to visit the shrine of the early Christian martyr.
Return to Damascus
Evening at leisure to enjoy the spa facilities at the hotel.
Day 6: Damascus to Homs - The Crusader Trail
Drive to Krak des Chevaliers
A scenic 2.5-hour drive north to the world's most perfectly preserved Crusader castle.
Private Castle Tour
Explore the massive fortifications, gothic halls, and stables of this UNESCO World Heritage fortress with a specialized guide.
Lunch with a View
Dine at a restaurant on the opposing hill, offering a breathtaking full-frame view of the fortress.
Check-in Homs
Evening rest in a high-end business hotel in the center of Homs.
Day 7: Homs to Palmyra - Desert Majesty
The Desert Road
Travel deep into the Syrian Desert toward the fabled oasis of Palmyra. Account for 2.5 hours of travel time including checkpoints.
Valley of the Tombs
Visit the unique multi-story funerary towers that once housed the elite of this caravan city.
The Great Colonnade
Walk the kilometer-long main street of Palmyra, passing under the Tetrapylon and the Arch of Triumph.
Palmyra Sunset
Watch the sun set over the ruins from the Qala'at ibn Ma'n (Arab Castle) overlooking the city.
Day 8: Palmyra to Hama - History and Hydraulics
Bel Temple Site Visit
Observe the remains of the massive Temple of Bel, once the center of religious life in Palmyra.
Travel to Hama
Depart the desert for the Orontes River valley and the city of Hama (approx. 2 hours).
The Norias of Hama
Marvel at the giant wooden waterwheels, some over 20 meters in diameter, that have been lifting river water for centuries.
Dinner by the Orontes
Enjoy a premium dining experience at a restaurant overlooking the lighted norias.
Day 9: Hama to Aleppo - The Northern Journey
Apamea Ancient Site
Stop at Apamea to walk the longest Cardo Maximus in the world, featuring beautiful twisted columns.
Lunch in Hama
Sample Hama's famous sweets, especially the 'Halawet el Jibn' (sweet cheese rolls).
Drive to Aleppo
Continue north to Aleppo, Syria's historic commercial hub and one of the oldest inhabited cities on earth.
Arrival in Aleppo
Check into your luxury accommodation and enjoy an evening cocktail with views of the Citadel.
Day 10: Aleppo, Syria - The Citadel & Old City
Aleppo Citadel Tour
Explore the massive medieval fortress rising above the city, including the throne room and ancient temples within.
Lunch at Al-Kommeh
Enjoy upscale Aleppine cuisine known for its use of cherries, pomegranates, and expert grilling.
Souq Al-Madina Exploration
Walk through the partially restored labyrinth of the world's largest covered bazaar, specializing in Aleppo laurel soap.
Traditional Aleppine Tarab
Attend an evening of traditional music (Tarab) in a restored courtyard palace.
Day 11: Aleppo, Syria - Christian Heritage & Arts
Jdeideh Quarter Stroll
Explore the historic Christian quarter with its narrow lanes, beautiful churches, and boutique hotels.
The Baron Hotel History
Have a drink at the bar where Agatha Christie wrote 'Murder on the Orient Express' and T.E. Lawrence once stayed.
Aleppo Museum of Antiquities
View the incredible Iron Age statues and artifacts from Tell Halaf and northern Syrian sites.
Modern Aleppine Dining
Experience the rebirth of Aleppo's culinary scene at a high-end restaurant in the Mogambo district.
Day 12: Aleppo to Latakia - The Mountain Pass
St. Simeon Citadel (Qala'at Sama'an)
Visit the ruins of the magnificent 5th-century church built around the pillar of the ascetic saint, St. Simeon Stylites.
Drive to the Coast
Travel through the lush, green mountains of the Alawite range toward the Mediterranean Sea.
Check-in at Afamia Resort
Arrival at Latakia’s premier 5-star beachfront resort for relaxation and sea views.
Seafood Dinner by the Port
Enjoy fresh Mediterranean seafood at an upscale restaurant overlooking the Latakia marina.
Day 13: Latakia, Syria - Ancient Ugarit & Blue Waters
The Ruins of Ugarit
Visit Ras Shamra, the site where the world's first alphabet was discovered, and explore the Bronze Age royal palace.
Yacht Excursion
Enjoy a private half-day yacht charter along the coast, with lunch served on board in a secluded cove.
Spa & Wellness
Return to the resort for a signature Mediterranean mud wrap or a Turkish hammam session.
Resort Fine Dining
A quiet evening enjoying international gourmet cuisine at the resort's signature restaurant.
Day 14: Latakia to Tartus - The Coastal Drive
Scenic Southbound Drive
A relaxing drive south along the Mediterranean coast toward the historic port of Tartus.
Arwad Island Transfer
Take a private boat to Arwad, Syria's only inhabited island, famous for its ancient Phoenician wall and boat-building traditions.
Tartus Old City
Explore the Templar-era cathedral (now a museum) and the narrow crusader streets of the Old Town.
Dinner in Tartus
Dine at a boutique restaurant located within the old crusader walls of the city.
Day 15: Tartus to Safita - White Towers & Green Hills
Chastel Blanc (Safita Tower)
Drive into the mountains to Safita to visit the massive white tower that serves as both a fortress and a church.
Mountain Lunch
Enjoy a rustic yet high-end lunch of grilled meats and fresh mountain produce in the cool Safita air.
Hosn Suleiman Exploration
Visit the remote and atmospheric Roman temple complex of Hosn Suleiman, nestled deep in the mountains.
Return to Tartus
Evening at leisure to enjoy the coastal breeze.
Day 16: Tartus to Damascus - The Return Journey
Morning at Leisure
Enjoy a final Mediterranean breakfast before beginning the journey back to the capital.
Drive to Damascus
Relax in your private vehicle for the 3-hour return journey to Damascus.
Last-Minute Shopping
Return to the Damascus souqs for final high-end purchases: silk carpets, inlaid wood boxes, or silver jewelry.
Farewell Dinner at Beit Jabri
Dine in a massive, historic courtyard house, celebrating the end of an epic journey with traditional music and dance.
Day 17: Damascus, Syria - Hidden Gems & Relaxation
Jewish Quarter Walk
Explore the quiet, historic lanes of the Al-Amin district, known for its beautiful architecture and hidden synagogues.
Lunch at a Private Garden
Enjoy an exclusive lunch in a private Damascene home, arranged through a luxury tour operator.
Traditional Hammam
Indulge in a full treatment at the historic Hammam al-Nasri or Hammam Nur al-Din for a royal cleaning ritual.
Reflective Dinner
A quiet, high-end meal focusing on 'slow food' Levantine traditions at a boutique hotel restaurant.
Day 18: Damascus, Syria - Departure
Leisurely Breakfast
Enjoy a final spread of Syrian labneh, olives, and fresh-baked bread on the hotel terrace.
Private Airport Transfer
Your driver will escort you to Damascus International Airport for your departing flight.
Duty-Free Shopping
Pick up local delicacies like Damascus pistachios and sweets to bring the flavors of Syria home.
Departure
Board your flight as you conclude your 18-day epic Syrian journey.
Best Time to Visit Syria
The best time to visit Syria is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm, making it ideal for exploring archaeological sites and walking through the old cities. Summers can be intensely hot, especially in the desert regions like Palmyra, while winters can be surprisingly cold with occasional snow in Damascus and the mountains.
Currency & Money
The local currency is the Syrian Pound (SYP). Due to international sanctions, international credit and debit cards generally do not work in Syria. It is essential to carry enough cash (USD or EUR) for your entire trip, which can be exchanged at official exchange bureaus. Tipping is a significant part of the culture; in high-end restaurants, a 10-15% tip is standard, and small tips for guides and drivers are greatly appreciated.
Getting Around Syria
For a luxury traveler, the most efficient and comfortable way to get around Syria is via private chauffeured vehicles. High-end tour operators provide modern, air-conditioned SUVs and sedans. While there are domestic flights between Damascus, Aleppo, and Latakia via Syrian Air and Cham Wings, schedules can be irregular. Public buses (Pullman) are available but are not recommended for a luxury-focused itinerary. Checkpoints are common on intercity roads, so always carry your passport and travel permits.
