Tours to the Middle East

Syria

7 days/6 nights

2010 Tour Dates:
Anytime. Contact us and let us know when you'd like to go.

Syria, officially the Syrian Arab Republic, is a Middle Eastern country that shares borders with Lebanon, Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and Turkey. Syria has been home to a multitude of cultures and religions over its long history, from Hittites, Canaanites, and the inhabitants of Ugarit to the Romans, Christians (Paul was famously converted on the road to Damascus) and finally Muslims, who have been the majority in the country since the 7th century.

Modern Syria is officially secular and Syrian Christians are generally able to live and worship in peace alongside their Muslim neighbors. Given its rich religious heritage, it is no surprise that Syria abounds in fascinating religious sites: ruined pagan temples dedicated to Baal and Jupiter, ancient monasteries and synagogues, and mosques, churches, and shrines that are still full of worshipers.

Day 1: Arrival Damascus
Arrival at Damascus airport where a representative will meet, assist, and escort you during your transfer to the hotel. Overnight in Damascus.

Day 2: Damascus
Full-day city tour of Damascus, reputed to be the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world. Visit the world class National Museum with exhibits dating from the 14th century BC; the great Umayyad Mosque, built in 705 and noted for its mosaics and three minarets, and; the Azem Palace. On Straight Street there are vestiges of a Roman arch before entering the Christian quarter, where you will find the Chapel of St. Anainas. In the Chapel of St. Paul find the window where St. Paul was lowered in a basket to flee the Jews. Later you stroll in Hamidie souk. Overnight in Damascus.

Day 3: Damascus - Palmyra
Departure to the desert oasis of Palmyra, which was a way station for the caravans between the Mediterranean and Mesopotamia. Not only is Palmyra Syria's most important historical site, but also one of the world's great archaeological sites. Visit the Temple of Bel, the Arch of Triumph, the Great Colonnade, the Theatre, the Agora, and the Tombs. Overnight in Palmyra.

Day 4: Palmyra - Crack des Chevaliers - Hama - Aleppo
From Palmyra travel to Crack des Chevaliers, or Castle of the Knights, one of Syria's prime attractions. The castle looks much like it did 800 years ago and could house up to 4,000 inhabitants. Continue to the peaceful garden town of Hama, best known for its Norias, or water wheels. Drive to Aleppo. Overnight.

Day 5: Aleppo - Saint Simeon - Aleppo
Aleppo is Syria's second largest city. Since Roman times it has been an important trading center, becoming home to many Europeans, Christian Armenians, and Russians. Visit the 12th century Citadel; the Grand Mosque with its minaret from 1090; the fabulous labyrinth Caravanserai, and; the famous old souks, which hawk spices, meats, and other wares. In the afternoon visit the 4th century church St. Simeon, the largest Christian structure in the Middle East. Overnight in Aleppo.

Day 6: Aleppo - Serjeleh - Apamea - Maaloula - Damascus
Departure to the dead city of Serjeleh. Visit the ancient ruins of Apamea, which dominates the valley and was founded by Seleucus I in the second century. Continue to Maaloula, one of the most scenic villages in Syria, but more importantly the only place in the world where ancient Aramaic, the language of Christ, is still spoken. It is situated at an altitude of 1500 meters, clinging to the side of a mountain. Visit two important monasteries of Mar Sarkis and the Monastery of Mar Takla. Transfer to Damascus for overnight.

Day 7: Departure
Transfer to Damascus airport for departure.

TOUR PRICE:

Land Cost Per Person:
(double occupancy)

	4 * Hotels	5 * Hotels
11-13 travelers	$1190	$1675
8-10 travelers	$1240	$1700
6-7 travelers	$1265	$1750
4-5 travelers	$1290	$1800
3 travelers	$1440	$1875
2 travelers	$1690	$1950
1 traveler	$2840	$3190
Single Supplement	$350	$530

Kutrubes Travel has SPECIAL AIRFARES - Contact us for details.

Price Includes:

Accommodation at 4* and 5* hotels
Meals on half board basis
Meet and assistance upon arrival and departure
Transportation as mentioned in the program
Entrance fees as mentioned in the program
Donations at churches and convents
Accompanied English-speaking guides during the tour
Tips in hotels (porters and restaurants)

Price Does Not Include:

International airfare (unless otherwise arranged)
Departure tax at Damascus Airport
Tips for guide and driver
All extra and personal expenses
Travel insurance
Trip cancellation
Drinks and other meals
Medical and luggage insurance are recommended for coverage against all unforeseen circumstances (Please do not forget to take a copy of this insurance with yourself during your trip)

Payment and Refund Policies

If you have any questions or you'd like to book this trip, please contact us.

Custom itineraries available to this or any of the destinations we travel to.

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