General Information
Damascus, the capital of Syria, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history spanning over 4,000 years. Known as the “Pearl of the East,” Damascus played a vital role in the Umayyad Caliphate, serving as its capital. The city is famous for its Islamic architecture, vibrant souks, and rich cultural heritage. Despite recent challenges, Damascus remains a treasure trove of historical sites, attracting travelers interested in history, religion, and Middle Eastern culture.
Location
Damascus is located in southwestern Syria, near the Anti-Lebanon Mountains. It is positioned 80 km from Beirut, Lebanon, making it a key crossroads between the Middle East and the Mediterranean. The Barada River flows through the city, providing a lifeline to this ancient settlement.
Nearby Destinations:
- Maaloula (56 km north): A Christian village where Aramaic, the language of Jesus, is still spoken.
- Sayyidah Zaynab (10 km south): A major Shia pilgrimage site, home to the Sayyidah Zaynab Mosque.
- Bosra (140 km south): Famous for its Roman theater and ancient ruins.
- Palmyra (240 km northeast): A UNESCO-listed ancient city with breathtaking ruins.
How to Get There
- By Air:
- Damascus International Airport (DAM): Located 30 km southeast of the city, with flights from Beirut, Tehran, Baghdad, and Dubai.
- By Land:
- From Beirut, Lebanon (2-hour drive): The most common route for travelers, with buses and private taxis available.
- From Amman, Jordan (5-hour drive): Buses and shared taxis operate between the two capitals.
- From Aleppo (4-hour drive): A major domestic route connecting Syria’s two largest cities.
- By Train:
- Limited rail services exist, primarily for domestic routes.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March – May): The best time to visit, with mild temperatures (15–25°C) and blooming gardens.
- Autumn (September – November): Pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
- Winter (December – February): Cool temperatures, sometimes dipping to 5°C, with occasional rain.
- Summer (June – August): Hot and dry, with temperatures reaching 35–40°C.
Key Festivals & Events
- Damascus International Fair (September): A major trade and cultural event.
- Eid Celebrations (Islamic Calendar): The city comes alive with festivities and traditional food.
- Christmas & Easter: Celebrated in the Christian Quarter of the Old City.
Where to Stay
- Luxury:
- Four Seasons Hotel Damascus – A high-end hotel offering top-tier comfort and city views.
- Beit Al Mamlouka – A boutique hotel in a restored 17th-century mansion.
- Mid-range:
- Talisman Hotel – A beautifully decorated boutique hotel in the Old City.
- Cham Palace Hotel – A popular 4-star hotel in the heart of Damascus.
- Budget:
- Al Majed Hotel – A comfortable and affordable option.
- Al Rabie Hotel – A charming guesthouse in an old Damascene house.
Top Attractions
- Umayyad Mosque: One of Islam’s most important mosques, housing the tomb of John the Baptist.
- Al-Hamidiyah Souq: A bustling bazaar famous for spices, textiles, and sweets.
- Azem Palace: A stunning example of Damascene architecture, showcasing Ottoman-era life.
- Straight Street (Via Recta): Mentioned in the Bible, this street dates back to Roman times.
- Sayyidah Ruqayya Mosque: A sacred site for Shia Muslims.
- Chapel of Saint Ananias: An underground chapel believed to be the home of Ananias, who baptized Saint Paul.
- Mount Qasioun: Offers breathtaking panoramic views of Damascus at sunset.
- Bab Touma (Thomas Gate): The heart of the Christian Quarter, known for its churches and cafes.
- Takiyya Suleimaniyah Mosque: A stunning Ottoman-era mosque with beautiful courtyards.
- National Museum of Damascus: Houses artifacts from Mesopotamian, Roman, and Islamic civilizations.
Getting Around
- Taxis: The most convenient way to travel within the city. Always negotiate fares before riding.
- Buses & Microbuses: Affordable but often crowded.
- Walking: The Old City is best explored on foot.
- Car Rentals: Available, but driving in Damascus can be chaotic.
Local Cuisine
Damascus is known for its rich and diverse Levantine cuisine, featuring fresh ingredients and aromatic spices.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Shawarma: Slow-roasted meat served in flatbread with garlic sauce.
- Fatteh: A layered dish of pita bread, chickpeas, yogurt, and nuts.
- Kibbeh: Ground meat and bulgur croquettes.
- Mutabbal: A smoky eggplant dip similar to baba ghanoush.
- Baklava & Maamoul: Sweet pastries filled with nuts or dates.
Top Restaurants
- Naranj Restaurant: One of the best places for traditional Syrian cuisine.
- Beit Jabri: A beautiful courtyard restaurant offering authentic Damascene dishes.
- Al-Khawali Restaurant: Famous for grilled meats and mezze platters.
Shopping in Damascus
- Al-Hamidiyah Souq: The city’s most famous market, perfect for textiles, spices, and handcrafted goods.
- Souq Al-Bzourieh: A paradise for sweets and traditional perfumes.
- Straight Street Shops: Home to jewelry and antique dealers.
Souvenir Ideas:
- Damascene swords & metalwork
- Silk scarves & embroidered fabrics
- Aleppo soap (made from olive oil and laurel)
- Hand-painted ceramics
Nightlife in Damascus
Damascus has a relaxed and traditional nightlife scene, with tea houses, shisha cafes, and cultural performances.
- Bab Sharqi Cafés: A lively area with bars, restaurants, and coffee shops.
- Zawiyat Al-Khandaq Café: Great for traditional live music.
- Qasabji Café: A famous shisha lounge with an old-world atmosphere.
Day Trips from Damascus
- Maaloula (56 km north): A Christian village with ancient monasteries.
- Bosra (140 km south): Home to a well-preserved Roman amphitheater.
- Palmyra (240 km northeast): A must-visit for history lovers, known for its stunning ancient ruins.
- Sayyidah Zaynab (10 km south): An important Shia pilgrimage site.