Tour to Syria

October 3-12, 2025 (9 days)

FACTS ABOUT THE TOUR

  • €1655 + flights
    Estimated travel expenses (excluding flights and food). Details below.
  • 9 days
    8 days in Syria + flights
  • Simple trip
    An easy trip. Climbing of 350 steps may be required.
  • Up to 12 travellers in a group.
    We keep groups small for the best experience!
  • Adventure, cultural, experiential.
    Type of the tour.
  • Damascus
    Start and end points of the tour.
    You may also join the tour in Istanbul.

About the Syrian Tour

October 3–12, 2025 – I invite you to explore Syria together!

We will travel only to the areas that are safe for tourists at that time.


What makes Syria so special – what we’ll see and experience:

  • We’ll walk through some of the oldest cities in the world — Damascus and Aleppo
  • Share a traditional dinner with a local family
  • Visit Krak des Chevaliers — one of the most impressive Crusader castles in the world
  • Marvel at the mysterious ruins of Palmyra, echoing the glory of the Silk Road and the Roman Empire
  • Spend the night in an active 6th-century Christian monastery — St. Moses Monastery, hidden in the mountains
  • Explore pistachio orchards just as the harvest season comes to an end
  • Indulge in relaxation at a 12th-century traditional hammam in Aleppo

Why should you choose this tour?

  • Heritage
    During the journey, we visit everything a first-time traveler would want to see: Damascus, Palmyra, Aleppo, nature.
  • Small Group
    We travel with a small group, which makes us flexible and fast. This way, we see and experience more than when traveling with a large group.
  • Price
    As far as we know, this is the best price you can find. Also we will fly directly to Damascus and start tour there and not in neighbouring country.

ITINERARY OF THE TOUR

October 3 (Friday) – Flight to Damascus
Flight from your location to Damascus, Syria.
Tour leader Vladas Sapranavičius and majority of the group will travel to Damascus via Istanbul.
You may join us in Istanbul or Damascus!
We plan to arrive to Damascus airport on 9:50 AM on Saturday, October 4 morning.
October 4 (Saturday) – Arrival in Damascus and Old City Discovery
Our journey begins with arrival at Damascus International Airport (DAM) at 9:50 AM. We head directly to our boutique hotel nestled in the heart of the Old City. After checking in and enjoying a refreshing welcome drink, we begin our immersive introduction to one of the oldest cities in the world.
We start by walking through the historic Bab Touma quarter, then continue along the legendary Straight Street, stopping at Ananias Church. From there, we head toward Bab Sharqi (Eastern Gate). Passing through the gate, we follow the ancient eastern wall of the city to Bab Keisan and Saint Paul’s Chapel.
Next, we wander through the narrow alleys of the Old City to the vibrant Souk al-Bzouriyeh. We then visit the magnificent Khan As'ad Pasha — a stunning Ottoman caravanserai — and the beautifully preserved 18th-century Qasr al-Azm palace.
We continue to the majestic Umayyad Mosque, one of the oldest and grandest in the Islamic world, and pay our respects at the Mausoleum of Saladin. The day concludes with a walk through the famous Souk al-Hamidiyeh, where we’ll enjoy the legendary Bakdash ice cream. Dinner and overnight stay in Damascus.
October 5 (Sunday) – Saidnaya, Maaloula & Overnight in Mar Musa Monastery
We begin the day with a scenic drive to a viewpoint overlooking the Saidnaya Prison — a site with a complex and somber history. From there, we continue to the Monastery of Our Lady of Saidnaya, an important pilgrimage site known for its deep spiritual atmosphere and ancient icons.
Our journey then takes us to the extraordinary village of Maaloula, where the ancient Aramaic language — once spoken by Jesus — is still alive. We explore the Monastery of Saints Sergius and Bacchus, where we may hear the Lord’s Prayer in Aramaic and, if fortunate, meet nuns who survived captivity — powerful living witnesses of faith and resilience. We also walk through the dramatic Maaloula canyon, which has become a sacred path of devotion.
In the afternoon, we travel to the remote and breathtaking Mar Musa Monastery, nestled into the mountainside. We aim to arrive before 2:30 PM, when the monastery welcomes visitors. Reaching the monastery requires climbing approximately 350 stone steps — a symbolic ascent into silence and simplicity.
This active 6th-century monastic site invites us to disconnect from the outside world and reconnect inwardly. Surrounded by ancient frescoes, we’ll learn about the community’s resource-conscious way of life, including sustainable water use. There will also be time for hiking and quiet contemplation in the serene mountain surroundings.
In the evening, after prayer, we share a simple dinner with the monastic community around 9:30 PM. Overnight stay in the monastery.
October 6 (Monday) – Hama, Apamea, Serjilla & Overnight in Aleppo
After a peaceful overnight at Mar Musa Monastery, we descend from its tranquil heights, carrying with us the inner calm and reflections gained in this spiritual retreat. We continue our journey northward to explore more of Syria’s deep historical and cultural richness.
Our first stop is the city of Hama, known for its iconic ancient water wheels (Norias), which have stood along the Orontes River for centuries. We stroll through Hama’s old alleys and visit the Qasr al-Azm Palace, now a museum dedicated to local heritage and popular traditions.
Next, we head to the ancient site of Apamea, a significant Hellenistic city founded around 300 BCE. Once a powerful military and commercial hub, it is famous for its impressive colonnaded street, which stretches nearly 2 kilometers — a silent witness to its former grandeur. We walk this road, imagining the vibrant life that once pulsed through this Silk Road city.
From there, we continue to the haunting ruins of Serjilla, a remarkably preserved example of the so-called Dead Cities of northwest Syria. Dating back to the 5th century, these abandoned stone villages offer a fascinating glimpse into early Byzantine rural life.
Our day ends as we arrive in the historic city of Aleppo. After checking in to our hotel, we enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant with scenic views and authentic cuisine. Overnight stay in Aleppo.
October 7 (Tuesday) – Aleppo: Citadel, Souks & Historical Highlights
After breakfast, we begin our deep dive into the rich history of Aleppo, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities.
We start with a visit to the city’s iconic Aleppo Citadel. Towering above the city center, this massive fortress offers panoramic views and a powerful sense of history. We’ll spend 1–2 hours exploring its ancient gates, inner chambers, and fortifications, and may descend via a historic underground passage.
Next, we enter the vibrant Aleppo Souks — a maze of covered markets, considered among the largest and oldest in the Middle East. We’ll witness the resilience of these traditional bazaars, still echoing with life and trade. During our walk, we’ll visit a traditional Laurel Soap workshop, where artisans continue an 800-year-old craft using olive oil and laurel berries.
In the afternoon, we experience the restorative ritual of the Hammam Al-Nahhaseen, a 12th-century traditional bathhouse hidden within the souk. During this immersive 3-hour experience, a Mokayyes (bath specialist) will gently scrub the skin with a special glove, followed by an olive oil soap lather, massage, and steam. You’ll emerge refreshed and deeply relaxed — a true sensory journey into ancient Aleppine tradition.
Later, we visit the legendary Baron Hotel, which once hosted figures such as Agatha Christie, Lawrence of Arabia, and Hafez al-Assad. Its faded grandeur tells its own story of Syria’s modern history.
If time and energy permit, we may also stroll through the Christian Quarter (Al-Jdayde) — known for its stone houses, churches, and quiet courtyards.
Dinner and overnight stay in Aleppo.
October 8 (Wednesday) – St. Simeon's, Beehive Houses & Local Hospitality
After breakfast, we leave Aleppo and head north into the Syrian countryside. Our first stop is the archaeological site of Kharab Shams, an impressive 5th-century ruin that offers insight into early Christian settlements.
We continue to the monumental remains of St. Simeon’s Church (Qalaat Semaan), built to honor Saint Simeon the Stylite, a 5th-century ascetic who famously lived atop a stone column for decades. This vast basilica was once one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the region. Along the way, we pass by scattered ruins of the mysterious Dead Cities, silent witnesses of Syria’s ancient rural past.
In the afternoon, we drive to southern Aleppo to experience the warmth of traditional Syrian hospitality. Here, we visit a community of Beehive Houses — centuries-old mud-brick domed dwellings known for their natural insulation and unique architecture. A local guide with ancestral roots in the region will lead us through one of these homes, sharing personal insights into their construction, sustainability, and cultural significance.
The day culminates in a meaningful and personal encounter — we are welcomed into the home of a local Aleppian family for a shared dinner. This is not just a meal, but a deep cultural exchange, where we connect through conversation, storytelling, and warm hospitality. It’s an opportunity to step beyond typical tourism and engage with the human spirit of Syria.
Overnight stay in Aleppo.
October 9 (Thursday) – Homs, Krak des Chevaliers & Almishtaya
After breakfast, we depart from Aleppo and begin our journey south. Along the way, we make a special stop in the Morek region to visit a pistachio farm. Pistachios are a vital and strategic crop in Syria, and if we’re lucky, we may get the chance to taste or pick some fresh ones — though the main harvest typically ends in September.
We continue on to Homs, where we visit the striking Mosque of Khalid ibn al-Walid, dedicated to one of the most prominent military leaders in early Islamic history. This site also gives us a direct look at the scars left by recent conflicts.
In the afternoon, we explore one of the crown jewels of Syria’s medieval architecture — the mighty Krak des Chevaliers (Qal’at al-Hisn). Considered one of the best-preserved Crusader castles in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this fortress still impresses with its massive walls, towers, and sweeping hilltop views.
We conclude the day in the charming Christian village of Almishtaya, nestled in the hills. Here, we enjoy a peaceful evening, have dinner, and rest for the night surrounded by the quiet beauty of the countryside.
Overnight stay in Almishtaya.
October 10 (Friday) – Palmyra’s Grandeur & Return to Damascus
After breakfast and a restful night in Almishtaya, we begin our journey east toward the legendary ruins of Palmyra, often called the "Pearl of the Semi-Desert." This ancient city rose to prominence in the 1st century AD as a vital hub along the Silk Road, blending Greco-Roman grandeur with Eastern traditions.
Upon arrival, we explore the vast archaeological site, beginning with the haunting remains of the once-iconic Temple of Bel. Though largely destroyed in 2015, two surviving gateway columns still stand as solemn witnesses to the cultural loss.
We continue to the damaged but still symbolic Arch of Triumph, followed by a visit to the Three Brothers Tomb — an underground burial site adorned with detailed frescoes. We also explore the Zenobia Bath, the Roman Amphitheater, the majestic Colonnaded Street, the ancient Agora, and other remnants of Palmyra’s former splendor.
If access is permitted, we will also visit the Palmyra Museum, which, like the ruins, suffered extensive looting and damage during recent conflicts.
To complete your Palmyra experience, we'll enjoy lunch in a traditional Bedouin setting, beneath an authentic tent that embodies the genuine hospitality of the desert tribes.
In the late afternoon, we set out on our return drive to Damascus — a scenic journey of around three hours. Upon arrival, there is free time to relax or perhaps revisit the souks for last-minute souvenirs.
Dinner and overnight stay in Damascus.
October 11 (Saturday) – Bosra: Ancient Wonders & Final Hours in Damascus
After breakfast, we head south toward the ancient city of Bosra, a rarely visited gem in Syria’s cultural landscape. The region is known for its dark basalt architecture, a result of its volcanic history — offering dramatic contrasts and fantastic photo opportunities along the way.
Upon arrival, we explore the stunning Bosra Colosseum, renowned as the most complete Roman amphitheater in the world. Its near-perfect preservation allows us to step directly into the grandeur of Roman public life. We then visit the oldest mosque in Syria, dating back to early Islamic times, and the Church of the Monk Bahira, believed to be the site where Monk Bahira predicted the prophetic destiny of the young Muhammad — a moment of profound interfaith resonance.
After taking in Bosra’s archaeological treasures, we begin our return drive to Damascus. Upon arrival, the remaining hours are flexible — an opportunity for final explorations, relaxed reflection, or browsing the souks of Damascus for unique souvenirs to carry home.
We gather for a final dinner together, sharing impressions and memories of the extraordinary journey we've taken through Syria.
Overnight stay in Damascus (or transfer to airport, depending on flight schedule).
October 12 (Sunday) – Return home from Damascus
In the morning most of the group will fly back home from Damascus airport.

Budget of the Tour

Visa – acquired at Damascus airport. Price depends on your passport. Around 150 USD (approx €135)
Accommodation, local transport, entrance tickets, guides, stay in a monastery with dinner and breakfast, 3 h long pleasure in hammam of Alepo, dinner with local family – 1280 USD (approx. €1120), paid in Syria – no prepayment required.
Organizational fee – €400 (paid upon registration).
TOTAL: approx. €1655 + flights.
Meals and other personal expenses are not included, except breakfasts and two dinners.
Estimated food prices: shawarma sandwich – €3, falafel – €1.5, lunch or dinner – €15–25.
Accommodation is in 3-star twin rooms with air conditioning, private bathroom and shower. A/C may not work all the time in Damascus hotel, because of electricity shortages. Breakfast is always included.
If you’d like to join the group, please fill out the registration form. Also follow SpaceTravel on Facebook.
To confirm your spot, I will ask you to transfer a €400 advance payment (organizational fee). Please note that this fee is non-refundable in case of cancellation.

NEXT STEPS
  1. Fill out the registration form
  2. Within 1 day you’ll receive a confirmation email and payment details for the €400 advance
  3. Transfer the €400 organizational fee
  4. I’ll confirm once the payment is received. I will then send the exact dates and times for flight booking, once the group is formed and it’s time to buy tickets
  5. You purchase your flight tickets

Vladas Sapranavičius

The Organizer and Leader of the Tour
Syria is one of the cradles of the world’s oldest civilizations—a land where every stone tells a story thousands of years old, and every street breathes history. For a long time, the country was closed to the world, but now it is quietly, gracefully, and cautiously reopening—only to those who travel not just to see, but to truly feel.
This is not just a trip—it is a journey to the origins of humanity, to cities once walked by prophets, kings, and poets. Damascus, Aleppo, Maaloula, Palmyra—these are not just names from textbooks; they are living, breathing worlds where light and shadow still exist side by side.
I created this route with deep respect for the country, its people, and its destiny. Every encounter with locals, every dinner in the old town, every prayer or song becomes a key to Syria’s soul—a soul that is strong, gentle, and incredibly hospitable.
This is a journey of contrasts: of architecture rising from ashes, of deserts and green valleys, of mosques and ancient Christian monasteries. And at the same time, it is a journey into stillness, into a meeting with something within ourselves that has yet to be discovered.
Syria does not stay in photos. It stays in the heart. I invite you to take this step with me—while this rare window of opportunity remains open. I will ensure your safety, comfort, and that this journey becomes one of the most meaningful stories of your life.
About Vladas Sapranavičius' Experience in the Middle East
Vladas has been traveling in the Middle East since 1999. He has visited Iran, Iraq, Syria, Jordan, and Egypt. Vladas has led around 20 traveler groups through Iran and Iraq.
Advantages of Traveling with Vladas:
  • The trips are enriched with unique experiences (visits to local artisans, home visits with locals, etc.).
  • The journeys introduce local customs and provide insight into the real life and mindset of the people.
  • There is always a Plan B, C, and beyond, which is especially important in such a dynamic region as the Middle East.
Vladas Sapranavičius is not a travel organizer who sells travel packages and takes any responsibility for flights, accommodations, or anything like that. He is a trip leader who gathers a group of like-minded individuals for the journey. Tickets are purchased independently, and payment for hotels and transportation is made on-site during the trip. Vladas does not insure travelers during the trip. All travelers assume all possible risks themselves and can purchase the desired insurance for the duration of the trip.
Nevertheless, Vladas will assist you with all these matters.
REGISTER TO THE TOUR
Fill separate form for every person registering
Agreement

Frequently Asked Questions

Contact me
Vladas Sapranavičius
Tour Organizer and Leader
Phone: +370 650 77378
Email: vladas@spacetravel.lt