20-Day Epic Family Discovery Journey Through Syria
Syria is a land of profound history and incredible resilience, offering families a chance to step back in time while enjoying legendary Levantine hospitality. This 20-day route is designed for families who want to see the major landmarks of the 'Cradle of Civilizations' at a relaxed pace that respects the needs of younger travelers.
Focusing on comfort and accessibility, this itinerary balances the awe-inspiring ruins of the past with green city parks and coastal escapes. By prioritizing private transport and well-maintained heritage sites, you can navigate the country’s treasures safely and comfortably with children in tow.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Damascus, Syria - Arrival & First Impressions
Arrival at Damascus International Airport
Complete your visa formalities and meet your private driver for a comfortable transfer to the city center. The drive offers your first glimpse of the Damascus skyline.
Check-in at Beit Al Mamlouka
Settle into a beautifully restored Damascene boutique hotel. These traditional courtyard houses are quiet, safe, and perfect for families to decompress after a flight.
Walk through Al-Hamidiyah Souq
A stroller-friendly covered market. Enjoy the sights and smells of spices and textiles without worrying about the sun.
Bakdash Ice Cream Treat
Stop at the world-famous Bakdash for traditional 'Booza' (pounded ice cream with pistachios). It is an absolute must-try for kids!
Day 2: Damascus, Syria - Ancient Wonders
Umayyad Mosque Exploration
Visit one of the largest and oldest mosques in the world. The vast marble courtyard is excellent for kids to walk around (respectfully), and the mosaics are breathtaking.
Azm Palace
A 18th-century palace showcasing Damascene architecture. The gardens and fountains provide a cool, relaxing atmosphere for a family stroll.
Chapel of Saint Ananias
Descend into this ancient underground church, located in the Christian Quarter of the Old City.
Dinner in the Old City
Enjoy a family-style meal at Naranj, where the mezze platters are perfect for sharing with children who might be picky eaters.
Day 3: Damascus, Syria - Parks and History
National Museum of Damascus
Explore artifacts spanning millennia. The gardens outside the museum are a peaceful place for a mid-morning break.
Tishreen Park
Damascus' largest public park. It features wide paved paths for strollers and plenty of green space for children to play.
Tekkiye Suleymaniye Mosque
Visit the craft market located in the courtyard of this Ottoman-era mosque to pick up locally made toys and fabrics.
Mount Qasioun Viewpoint
Take a taxi up the mountain for a panoramic view of the sparkling city lights below.
Day 4: Damascus, Syria - A Day of Leisure
Straight Street Stroll
Walk the historic 'Via Recta,' which is wider and easier to navigate than the smaller alleys, making it great for a relaxed morning.
Traditional Hammam Visit
While parents take turns at the bath, the other can enjoy tea in the beautiful cooling rooms. Many hammams have family-friendly hours.
Bab Sharqi Gate
Observe the ancient Roman gate and the bustling daily life around the eastern entrance of the city.
Farewell Damascus Dinner
Enjoy a final feast in the capital at Al-Khawali, known for its friendly service and traditional decor.
Day 5: Maaloula, Syria - Into the Mountains
Travel to Maaloula
A scenic 1-hour drive into the mountains. This town is one of the few places where Aramaic, the language of Jesus, is still spoken.
Monastery of Saint Thecla
Explore the cave monastery and the narrow gorge (Siq) leading up to it. The walk through the rocks is an adventure for kids.
Monastery of Saints Sergius and Bacchus
Visit one of the oldest surviving churches in the world and enjoy the view of the village below.
Overnight in Maaloula
Stay at a local guesthouse for a quiet night in the crisp mountain air.
Day 6: Homs, Syria - The Heart of the Country
Drive to Homs
A 2-hour drive through the Syrian countryside toward the central hub of Homs.
Khalid ibn al-Walid Mosque
Visit this iconic mosque with its distinctive Ottoman architecture and impressive domes.
Homs Old City Explorations
See the ongoing restoration efforts and visit the Church of the Belt of Mary (Um al-Zennar).
Local Pastry Tasting
Homs is famous for its sweets. Visit a local bakery for Halawet el-Jibn (sweet cheese rolls).
Day 7: Homs, Syria - The Great Fortress
Krak des Chevaliers Trip
A 1-hour drive to the world's best-preserved Crusader castle. Its massive size and 'castle' feel are a dream for children’s imaginations.
Lunch with a View
Eat at one of the restaurants on the hill overlooking the castle for a spectacular backdrop.
St. George Monastery
Visit the nearby historic monastery before heading back to Homs.
Relaxed Evening in Homs
A quiet dinner at your hotel to recharge for tomorrow's travel to the coast.
Day 8: Homs, Syria - Leisure Day
Visit Al-Waer Park
A local family favorite. It’s a great place to sit and watch local life while the kids play.
Modern Homs Shopping
Walk through some of the newer shopping streets for modern conveniences and children's supplies.
Family Picnic by the Orontes
Enjoy a simple picnic snack by the river banks, a popular local pastime.
Packing & Prep
Prepare for the journey to the Mediterranean coast.
Day 9: Tartus, Syria - Coastal Vibes
Drive to Tartus
A 1.5-hour drive through lush green landscapes to the seaside city of Tartus.
Tartus Old City & Cathedral
Wander the narrow streets of the Crusader-era old town and visit the Cathedral of Notre Dame of Tartus.
Check-in at Shahin Tower Hotel
A comfortable hotel with sea views, perfect for a family stay.
Corniche Walk
Join the locals for a sunset walk along the Corniche. It is wide, paved, and perfect for strollers.
Day 10: Arwad Island, Syria - An Island Adventure
Boat Ride to Arwad
Take a short, fun boat ride to Syria’s only inhabited island. Kids will love the boat trip!
Exploring Arwad Village
Explore the winding alleys of this fortress-island where ship-building is still a major craft.
Fresh Seafood Lunch
Enjoy fish caught that morning at a restaurant right on the water’s edge.
Return to Mainland
Head back to Tartus for a relaxing evening at the hotel pool.
Day 11: Tartus, Syria - Phoenician Footsteps
Amrit Archaeological Site
Visit the remains of this ancient Phoenician city. The open-air temple and stadium are easy to walk around with kids.
Beach Break
Spend the afternoon at a private beach club in Tartus for some sand and sun.
Visit the Local Souq
Tartus has a vibrant local market that is less crowded than Damascus, making it easier for families.
Dinner at the Harbor
Watch the ships come in while enjoying a Levantine dinner.
Day 12: Latakia, Syria - The Port City
Drive to Latakia
A pleasant 1-hour drive north along the coastline.
Ancient Ugarit
Visit the ruins where the world’s first alphabet was discovered. The site is spread out and great for exploration.
Check-in at Afamia Resort
This resort offers excellent family amenities and a dedicated beach area.
Latakia Waterfront
Experience the bustling vibe of Syria's main port city.
Day 13: Latakia, Syria - Sun and Sand
Blue Beach Morning
Enjoy the most famous beach in Syria. The waters are generally calm and shallow, ideal for children.
Beachfront Lunch
Casual dining with your toes in the sand.
Latakia Archaeological Museum
Located in an old Ottoman khan, it’s a small and manageable museum for children.
Evening at the Resort
Enjoy the hotel’s dinner buffet and entertainment.
Day 14: Latakia, Syria - Castle in the Clouds
Salah Ed-Din Castle
Drive into the mountains to see this spectacular UNESCO site. The bridge and the deep moat cut into rock are visually stunning.
Lunch in the Mountains
Stop at a roadside restaurant for fresh grilled meats and local mountain salads.
Slinfeh Village Visit
A popular summer resort village with cooler air and beautiful forests.
Return to Latakia
Final night on the coast.
Day 15: Aleppo, Syria - The Northern Star
The Road to Aleppo
A longer drive (approx. 3-4 hours) toward the historic city of Aleppo. Ensure you have plenty of snacks for the kids.
Arrival and Check-in
Stay at a hotel near the city center that has been recently refurbished.
Public Park (Al-Hadika al-Amma)
One of the largest parks in Syria, a great place for children to run around after the long drive.
First Aleppo Dinner
Sample Aleppo’s famous cherry kebabs at a local family-run restaurant.
Day 16: Aleppo, Syria - Citadel and Heritage
The Citadel of Aleppo
One of the oldest and largest castles in the world. The massive entrance bridge and the throne room are highlights.
Old City Walk
See the rebuilding efforts in the ancient souks. Many areas are now accessible and safe for visitors.
Barron Hotel (Exterior)
Show the kids the historic hotel where Agatha Christie and Lawrence of Arabia once stayed.
Aleppine Coffee Break
Relax in a traditional café and enjoy the local atmosphere.
Day 17: Aleppo, Syria - Culture and Crafts
Al-Shibani School
A beautifully restored cultural center that often hosts art exhibits or musical performances.
Aleppo Soap Workshop
Visit a traditional factory to see how the famous olive oil and laurel 'Ghar' soap is made—a great sensory experience for kids.
Judeideh Quarter
Walk through the historic Christian district, known for its beautiful narrow streets and stone carvings.
Farewell Aleppo Meal
Try Kibbeh, the city's signature dish, available in dozens of varieties.
Day 18: Hama, Syria - City of Waterwheels
Drive to Hama
A 2.5-hour drive south to the city of Hama.
The Norias of Hama
See the giant wooden waterwheels along the Orontes River. Their creaking sound and size are fascinating for all ages.
Azem Palace Hama
A smaller but equally beautiful version of the palace in Damascus, now housing a museum.
Park Stroll
Hama has lovely parks along the river that are very popular with local families in the evening.
Day 19: Hama, Syria - Relaxation and Return
Morning in Hama Souq
A more relaxed market experience than the larger cities, perfect for last-minute gifts.
Travel back to Damascus
A 3-hour drive to complete the loop back to the capital.
Check-in at Damascus Hotel
Return to a familiar hotel for your final night.
Grand Farewell Dinner
Celebrate your 20-day journey with a final feast in the Old City.
Day 20: Damascus, Syria - Final Farewells
Souvenir Shopping
Visit the Artisan Market for high-quality Damascus steel, silk, or wood-inlay boxes.
Last Damascene Lunch
Enjoy one last Falafel or Shawarma from a favorite street vendor.
Departure Transfer
Your driver will take you to the airport for your flight home.
Flight Home
Board your flight with incredible family memories of Syria.
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 mild and pleasant, perfect for walking through ancient sites with children without the intense heat of the summer or the occasional chilly rains of winter. Spring is particularly beautiful as the Syrian countryside turns surprisingly green and wildflowers bloom.
Currency & Money
The currency is the Syrian Pound (SYP). Syria is primarily a cash-based economy, and international credit cards are generally not accepted due to sanctions. It is essential to bring enough USD or Euros in cash to exchange locally. Tipping is a common part of the culture; small tips for servers, drivers, and guides are highly appreciated and go a long way in showing gratitude for the local hospitality.
Getting Around Syria
For a family-friendly experience, private car hire with a driver is the most recommended method for intercity travel. It offers the flexibility to stop for breaks and ensures a comfortable, climate-controlled environment. While there are public buses (microbuses), they can be crowded and difficult to navigate with strollers and luggage. Private transfers are affordable and provide a significantly higher level of convenience and safety.
