Day 01: Beirut – Damascus City Tour
- Begin your journey from Beirut, Lebanon, with a convenient pick-up from your city center accommodation.
- Take a break at a street café for refreshments before reaching the Lebanese-Syrian border crossing.
- After completing the necessary entry visa formalities, continue your journey to the captivating capital city of Damascus, Syria. Known for its rich tapestry of religious, ethnic, and cultural heritage, Damascus offers a captivating experience for travelers.
- Your drop-off point will be Bab Touma, the north-eastern gate associated with the old city’s Christian neighborhood.
- Stroll along the ancient roadway to a boutique hotel located in the heart of old Damascus to have a short break and meet your guide to start your city tour of Damascus.
- Experience the spiritual significance of the Chapel of St. Ananias, an ancient church that embodies the essence of early Christianity.
- Take a stroll along the historic Straight Street, a captivating thoroughfare adorned with shops, cafes, and bustling markets.
- Be awe-inspired by the splendor of Azem Palace, an architectural gem that showcases the exquisite beauty of Damascene craftsmanship, currently houses the Museum of Popular Traditions.
- Embark on an exploration of Khan Assad Pasha, an impressive caravanserai that stands as a testament to the region’s rich trading heritage.
- Enjoy a stroll through the narrow alleys, leading you to the Umayyad Mosque. This iconic landmark is a significant cultural and spiritual center, housing the Shrine of John the Baptist.
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Souq al-Hamidiyeh, an ancient covered bazaar and bustling marketplace where the local culture thrives.
- Take a well-deserved rest at the historic Al Noufarah coffeehouse, where you can savor the flavors of coffee and tea while observing the vibrant Damascene life unfolding around you.
- Witness the religious diversity of Syria by visiting the Al-Seida Raqiyeh Mosque an important Shia pilgrimage site.
- Enjoy a stroll along the ancient roadway to your accommodation for overnight stay.
Day 02: Damascus – Sayyidah Zaynab – Bab al-Saghir – Beirut
- Embark on a captivating journey to visit to Sayyidah Zaynab, a significant pilgrimage site located in the southern outskirts of Damascus. This revered shrine is dedicated to Sayyidah Zaynab, the granddaughter of the Prophet Muhammad. Immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance as you explore the intricate architecture and soak in the serene atmosphere of this sacred place. Witness the devotion of pilgrims who flock here to pay their respects and seek blessings.
- Continuing your journey, you’ll make your way to Bab al-Saghir, an ancient cemetery located within the walls of Old Damascus. This historic burial ground holds great significance as the resting place of numerous revered figures from Islamic history. Stroll through the hallowed grounds adorned with beautifully crafted tombstones and mausoleums. Discover the final resting places of prominent scholars and members of the Prophet Muhammad’s family, including some of the Prophet’s companions. Experience a profound sense of reverence as you reflect on the legacies left behind by these esteemed individuals.
- Having immersed yourself in the spiritual and historical richness of Sayyidah Zaynab and Bab al-Saghir, you’ll return to Damascus. As you journey back, take with you the memories of the sacred spaces you explored and the profound spiritual connections you forged. Reflect on the significance of these sites and the cultural heritage they represent, adding depth to your understanding of Syria’s diverse history and religious traditions.
- In the afternoon, travel back to your accommodation in Beirut.