Like a grand cultural jigsaw, Syria and Lebanon have been recast many times over since the dawn of civilisation. Crusader fortresses rise from Phoenician foundations, Roman buildings emerge from Greek ruins and Byzantine churches are now Ottoman mosques. In Damascus, we visit the museum, bazaars and the breathtaking Omayyad Mosque. To the west, the ancient desert oasis of Palmyra is a wonderful prelude to the ancient site at Apamea and the massive acropolis at Baalbek. Krak des Chevaliers, the world's finest Crusader castle, whets our appetite for Saone and the Crusader ports of Tartus, Byblos and Sidon. In Aleppo, surrounded by spice scents, long shadows and shafts of light, we explore magnificent vaulted bazaars and stay in a historic hotel. Discover incredible mosaics at Maarat, explore the splendid palace at Beit Eddine and end up in lively, urbane Beirut.
Itinerary
| Day Number(s) | Title |
|---|---|
| 1 | (Sat) Arrive in Damascus and transfer to hotel. |
| 2 | Visit the museum, Omayyad Mosque and bazaars. Drive to Palmyra. Tent dinner. |
| 3 | Visit Palmyra. Drive to Krak des Chevaliers. |
| 4 | Visit Krak, Hama, Apamea, Maarat-el-Numan and Dead Cities. Arrive Aleppo. |
| 5 | Explore the bazaars and visit St Simeon's Monastery. |
| 6 | Visit Ugarit, Saone and drive to Tartus. |
| 7 | Tartus Museum. Drive to Baalbek, visit the ancient temple. Continue to Aanjar for a winery tour. |
| 8 | Visit Beit Eddine and the Shouf Cedars forest. Overnight Byblos. |
| 9 | Explore Byblos and the beautiful Jeitta Grottos. |
| 10 | Guided tour of Beirut. Afternoon free to explore. |
| 11 | Trip ends in Beirut this morning (Tue). |
Trip Highlights
Gallery
Video
From Our Blog
Past Travellers' Ratings & Comments
At A Glance
Trip Length |
11 days |
Trip Code |
PGSL |
Activities |
|
| Culture (Moderate) | |
Countries Visited |
|
| Lebanon, Syria | |
Start City |
|
| Damascus | |
End City |
|
| Beirut | |
| * Per Person, Twin Share | |
