BETWEEN THE SEA AND HISTORY

7:00 AM Pick-up in Beirut » 9:00 AM Syrian Border » 11:00 AM Hotel Check-in » 12:00 PM Damascus (National Museum, Takiyya Suleimaniah, Khan Assad Basha Caravanserai, Al Azem Palace, Umayyad Mosque, Al-Hamidiyah Souk)

Morning departure from Beirut towards the Syrian border. After completing the border formalities, arrival in Damascus and check-in at the hotel. After a short rest, we will begin the visit of one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.

Visit to the National Museum, which houses an extraordinary collection of archaeological artifacts representing the ancient Syrian civilizations. Continuation to Takiyya Suleimaniah, an elegant Ottoman-era complex known for its refined architecture and peaceful courtyards.

Tour of the magnificent Khan Assad Basha Caravanserai, one of the best-preserved caravanserais in the Middle East, followed by a visit to Al Azem Palace, a splendid 18th-century residence that reflects traditional Damascene architecture and its richly decorated interiors.

The day continues at the iconic Umayyad Mosque, one of the most important religious monuments in the Islamic world, ending with a walk through the lively Al-Hamidiyah Souk, Damascus’s most famous covered market, filled with traditional shops, local handicrafts, and an authentically Syrian atmosphere.

Departure from Damascus heading north towards Idlib, with a brief stop to have coffee and enjoy a walk through the city center, offering a first impression of the local atmosphere before continuing the journey to Aleppo, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.

Upon arrival, tour of the historic Khan Al Harir Souk (Silk Market), a former trading center along the Silk Road, followed by a walk through the Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its stone alleyways, traditional markets, and centuries-old architecture.

Visit to the imposing Aleppo Citadel, one of the most iconic medieval fortresses in the Middle East, situated on a hill overlooking the city. Continuation to the Armenian Cathedral of the Forty Martyrs, one of the most important Armenian churches in Syria, and conclusion of the tour with a visit to a traditional Aleppo soap factory, where we will learn about the artisanal process of producing the famous olive oil soap, made using techniques passed down through generations.

Departure from Aleppo towards the historic Saidnaya Monastery, one of the most important Christian pilgrimage centers in the Middle East, renowned for its deep religious tradition and its impressive views over the surrounding mountains.

Continuation towards the remote Mar Musa Monastery, located in a spectacular desert setting. This ancient monastery, famous for its valuable medieval frescoes and peaceful, spiritual atmosphere, offers a unique experience thanks to both its historical heritage and its location.

The journey continues towards Saladin’s Castle, one of the best-preserved medieval fortresses in Syria and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its imposing walls, rock-carved moats, and privileged location reflect the strategic importance it held during the Crusades.

The day ends with arrival in Latakia, Syria’s main coastal city, where accommodation will take place and there will be time to rest before the following day’s activities.

Departure from Latakia towards the Ancient Port of Ugarit, one of the most important archaeological sites in the Eastern Mediterranean. An ancient Bronze Age port city, it is known for the discovery of one of the oldest alphabets in history and for its important role in the region’s trade.

Continuation towards the imposing Markab Castle, one of the best-preserved Crusader fortresses in Syria. Located on a volcanic hill overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, it stands out for its military architecture and its great strategic importance during the medieval period.

Afterwards, transfer to Arwad Island, the only inhabited island in Syria, with a charming historic center, narrow streets, and a long maritime tradition dating back to the Phoenician period.

The tour concludes with arrival in Tartous, a historic coastal city known for its Mediterranean atmosphere and rich historical heritage, where accommodation will take place.

Departure from Tartous towards the ancient Temple of Amrit, one of the best-preserved Phoenician monuments in Syria, known for its unique architecture and for offering a valuable glimpse into Phoenician civilization.

Continuation towards Safita to visit Chastel Blanc, a fortress built by the Crusaders that dominates the city from the top of a hill and offers magnificent views of the surrounding area.

The journey continues towards the impressive Krak des Chevaliers, considered one of the best-preserved medieval castles in the world and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its imposing walls, towers, and complex defensive structures make it one of the most emblematic Crusader fortresses in the Middle East.

Afterwards, arrival in Homs to visit the historic Um Al Zenar Church, one of the oldest Christian churches in Syria, revered for its religious importance and its close connection to early Christian tradition.

The tour concludes with the return to Damascus, where accommodation and rest will take place.

After breakfast, departure from Damascus towards the Syrian border. After completing the border formalities, continuation of the journey towards Beirut, enjoying the route through the landscapes of western Syria and the Bekaa Valley.

Arrival in Beirut around midday and conclusion of services with transfer to the designated pick-up point, marking the end of the tour.