Limited spots left

Dec 22–29, 2026 · 8 days · Hosted by Nick

Christmas
in Syria.

It's a vibe. Come experience the spirit of Christmas in the land where it all began. Parades through Bab Touma, drums across the city, and Muslims and Christians dancing in the streets together.

It's a vibe. Come experience the spirit of Christmas in the land where it all began. Parades, music and celebrations across Old Damascus.

8Days
Dec 22–292026
16Group size
$2,450Price
See what's in the trip Have a question? Ask Nick →
Nick with two Santas at a Christmas market in Damascus

Why this trip

Christmas is what made me fall in love with Damascus.

I remember seeing my first Christmas parade through Bab Touma in 2025. The drums echoed throughout the city. Muslims, Christians, and others danced in the streets. Pure jubilation was in the air. Damascus remained like that the entire week of Christmas.

It was one of the most beautiful examples of coexistence I have seen in this world, especially in a country that has been through so much.

In partnership with the professionals at SyrianGuides, who have been hosting travelers for years, we will walk through ancient cities that have been inhabited for thousands of years, yet endured their harshest wars over the last 15. We'll see a lot, have some fun, but also slow down when needed.

I hope you'll strongly consider joining me, because I'm so ready to show you just a sliver of why I love Syria.

Don't take it from me

My reels from Christmas 2025.

This is what the week looks like. Tap a video for sound.

More on Instagram →

Unlike anywhere else

Christmas in Syria is unlike anywhere else. Because it all began here.

For centuries, Syria has shown the world what coexistence means. You will see that on full display in Damascus from December 22–29, 2026.

The route

Where we go.

Eight days through Syria at the most festive time of the year. Christmas Eve in Old Damascus, Christmas morning in Aramaic-speaking Maaloula, and Christmas night at a family winery in the mountains.

The rough routeDay trip from Damascus

Tap a place to see what we do there and the videos I've made there.

Where you sleep

7 nights. This is the rough shape of the trip, and the order can change a little.

  1. 3nightsOld Damascus

    Settle in, a day trip to Bosra, and Christmas Eve in the Old City.

  2. 1nightThe winery

    Christmas Day: Maaloula, Krak des Chevaliers, and Christmas night in the mountains.

  3. 2nightsAleppo

    By way of the Mediterranean coast.

  4. 1nightOld Damascus

    Back through Hama and Homs, for a farewell dinner and last shopping.

What's in the trip

The highlights.

This is what the trip holds, not a fixed schedule. The order of the days, the timings and small details can change, and our local guides set the final plan.

The courtyard of the Umayyad Mosque in DamascusWhere we start and finish

Old Damascus

One of the oldest living cities on earth, and our base at both ends of the trip.

  • The Umayyad Mosque, one of the great buildings of the Islamic world
  • The old souks, with time to shop for gifts
  • Azem Palace, an 18th-century Damascene palace
  • Sayyida Ruqayya Shrine and its mirrored interior
  • The Ananias Chapel, tied to the story of Saint Paul
  • The hakawati, the traditional storyteller, at one of the oldest cafés in the city
  • A Damascene mosaic workshop, where the craft is still done by hand
  • Ghouta, a part of the city destroyed in the war: what happened there, and how the rebuilding is going
  • A drive through the new city, to see modern Damascus
A crowded Damascus street lit up for Christmas at nightChristmas Eve

Christmas in Damascus

The biggest night of the season, in the Old City.

  • A first walk through the Old City, lit up for Christmas
  • The Christmas market and the lights of Bab Touma
  • Christmas Eve in the streets: decorations, music, and families of every faith out together
  • A group Christmas Eve dinner with live music
  • Optional midnight mass with one of the oldest Christian communities in the world

Christmas events are set by the churches and the city each year. We plan around them, and we always have our own celebration ready.

The Roman theater at BosraOne big day trip

Bosra

One day south across the Hauran plain, to a Roman city built from black stone.

  • One of the best-preserved Roman theaters in the world, wrapped inside an Arab fortress
  • Built in the 2nd century, with seats for about 15,000 people
  • Streets and temples built from black volcanic stone
  • A UNESCO World Heritage site, once the capital of the Roman province of Arabia
  • A local lunch, then back to Damascus for the Christmas market
The cliffside village of MaaloulaChristmas morning

Maaloula

A slow Christmas morning in the mountains north of Damascus.

  • A cliffside village, and one of the last places where Aramaic is still spoken
  • Its two old monasteries, Mar Sarkis and Mar Takla
  • A prayer in Aramaic
Krak des Chevaliers castle on its green hillThe mountains

Krak des Chevaliers

One of the best-preserved castles in the world.

  • A Crusader castle on its own hilltop, with wide views from the walls
  • Time to explore the halls, towers and courtyards
A past group in the green hills at a family wineryChristmas night

A family winery in the hills

Christmas night with a local family, not in a hotel.

  • Dinner in a local family's home
  • Wine tasting at a family winery
  • Music and dancing
  • A night at the winery guesthouse
Sunset over the Mediterranean from the rocks at JablehThe Mediterranean

The coast

From the mountains down to the sea.

  • Jableh: a walk through the town and its Roman theater
  • Latakia, the main port of Syria, with its Christmas tree and decorated streets
  • Ugarit, a Bronze Age city and the home of one of the world's first alphabets
A giant wooden waterwheel beside the Orontes river in Hama, seen from aboveOn the road south

Hama & Homs

Two stops on the road between Aleppo and Damascus.

  • Hama and its giant wooden waterwheels, turning on the Orontes river for centuries
  • Homs: the Khalid ibn al-Walid Mosque and the Church of the Holy Belt
A mosque with green domes in Aleppo, seen from aboveThe north

Aleppo

A city that has been trading, cooking and rebuilding for thousands of years.

  • The Citadel of Aleppo, rising above the Old City
  • The historic souks, section by section coming back to life
  • A traditional laurel soap factory, a craft about 800 years old
  • The old quarter of Jdeideh, lit for Christmas
  • A proper Aleppine dinner. Come hungry
  • Free time to wander
A table full of Syrian dishes, with one platter that spells Nick in green herbsAround the table

The food

All breakfasts and lunches are included, and some dinners. A few to look forward to:

  • A welcome dinner in a Damascene courtyard
  • Christmas Eve dinner with live music
  • Dinner in a local family's home
  • A proper Aleppine dinner
  • Halawet el-jibn in Hama, the city's famous sweet cheese dessert
  • A farewell dinner back in Damascus

The group

  • Up to 16 guests
  • Hosted by me
  • Licensed local guides the whole way

First and last days

  • Welcome briefing and welcome dinner on the first evening
  • Farewell dinner on the last evening
  • Transfers through the last day

Good to know

  • It is winter, so pack warm layers. The mountains get cold
  • Some days have long drives, with plenty of stops on the way
  • Bring modest clothes for mosques and shrines. Women need a scarf

The fine print, made simple

What's included?

  • Two-way transferFrom and to Beirut, if you choose to fly there
  • Accommodation4 to 5-star traditional hotels in Damascus and Aleppo, and one night at the winery guesthouse. Two to a room
  • TransportationAir-conditioned and heated bus
  • All breakfasts and lunches, some dinnersFrequent meals during the trip
  • Guides who know itHosted by Nick, with professional Syrian guides
  • Sightseeing and toursEntrance fees for the key historical sites
  • Visa assistanceGuidance through the visa process
  • Travel insuranceLocal travel insurance provided to you
  • Points and miles consultationTips on using points and miles to lower the cost of your flights

Optional extras

  • Single roomYour own room for the whole trip+ $500
  • Extra nightA hotel night before or after the trip, if you come early or stay longer$150

What's not included

  • Visa fees. Government visa fee, $0–$200, depending on your passport
  • Flight tickets. International flights
  • Personal expenses. Souvenirs, snacks, and other personal purchases
  • Tips. Gratuities for guides and drivers
  • Bad vibes. These will not be given or received :-)

About the trips

What are they saying?

“As a Lebanese woman, I grew up surrounded by narratives about Syria… What I found in Syria was not what I had been told to expect. I found warmth, kindness, generosity, and a hospitality that felt deeply familiar… In a world where so much travel has become about ticking boxes and collecting photos, Nick creates something different. He creates understanding.”

Rana Kaji waving on a rope bridgeRana Kaji · Lebanon

“Visiting Syria as a fellow Syrian (living in America) was deeply personal… I returned with a renewed sense of pride and a deeper bond to my roots. I'm so glad I faced my fear to go back despite the uncertainty… Thanks to Nick, I was able to surpass that fear with ease and comfort.”

Reema Albahri on a wooden terraceReema Albahri · Syria / USA

“Syria is one of the most misunderstood countries in the world… What impacted me most were the people. Syrians are some of the most welcoming, generous, and kind people I've ever met while traveling… The perfect mix of history, culture, adventure, nature, and unforgettable people.”

Dillon Ventura with a friend at a beach camp at sunsetDillon Ventura · USA

Good questions

FAQ

Who runs the trip?

The trip is operated by SyrianGuides, a licensed Syrian tour company, with a licensed local guide the whole way. I host the group and helped shape the route.

Is the route final?

These are the places and experiences on the trip. The order of the days and small details can change, and our local guides set the final plan.

Will the Christmas parades and events happen?

Christmas events are set by the churches and the city each year. We plan around them, and we always have our own celebration ready, including a group Christmas Eve dinner with live music.

How do I book?

Fill out the interest form on this page, then pay the $750 deposit. That's it. You're in. There is no application to wait on.

Does filling out the form mean I'm on the trip?

No. It is an interest form, not a booking. It tells me you are interested, and it is where you ask your questions. I read every form and reply myself. Your spot is saved when you pay the $750 deposit.

How do I pay?

The deposit is $750. You can send it by Wise, Venmo, Revolut or PayPal on the payment page. The rest is due 30 days before the trip starts.

Can I get a refund?

The $750 deposit is fully refundable for 48 hours after you pay it. After that it is non-refundable. The rest of the price is due 30 days before the trip starts, and from that point there are no refunds. If we have to cancel the trip, you get a full refund, including the deposit. Read the full cancellation and refund policy.

Can I have my own room?

Rooms are shared, two to a room. A single room is an extra $500 for the whole trip.

Can I come early or stay longer?

Yes. An extra hotel night before or after the trip is $150. Tell me your dates when you book.

Is the airport transfer included?

Yes. A two-way transfer from and to Beirut is included, if you choose to fly there.

Is it safe to travel to Syria?

Travel is conducted through carefully planned routes and trusted local partners. The itinerary focuses on stable areas, with security considerations built into every part of the trip. No trip is free of risk, and many governments, including the United States, currently advise against travel to Syria. Please read your own government's travel advice before you book.

Do I need my own travel insurance?

Local travel insurance is included with the trip. Many regular travel insurance plans do not cover Syria, so check your own policy before you travel. I recommend also carrying your own medical and evacuation cover that is valid in Syria.

How can I obtain a visa for Syria?

Visa assistance is provided as part of the trip. You'll receive guidance on required documents and the application process ahead of time.

How long does it take to get a visa to Syria?

Visa processing times vary by nationality, but typically take a few weeks. We recommend starting the process well in advance.

How much does a visa to Syria cost?

Visa fees depend on nationality and are paid separately. They range from $0 to $200. Exact costs will be confirmed during the application process.

Can I use credit cards in Syria?

Credit cards are generally not accepted. Cash is used for most transactions, and guidance on handling money will be provided.

What is the currency exchange rate in Syria?

The Syrian Pound is used locally. Currency exchange is handled on the ground, and guidance will be provided before arrival.

Any dress code for women in religious sites?

Modest dress is required in religious sites. Women should bring a scarf and wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees.

Are vegan options available in Syrian restaurants?

Yes. Syrian cuisine includes many vegetarian-friendly dishes, and dietary preferences can usually be accommodated.

What vaccinations do I need to travel to Syria?

No specific vaccinations are required for most travelers, but it's recommended to be up to date on routine vaccinations. Consult your healthcare provider before travel.

What are the best places to buy souvenirs in Syria?

Local markets, traditional souks, and artisan workshops are the best places to find handcrafted goods, textiles, and local products.

In which cases can't I visit Syria?

Entry restrictions depend on nationality, travel history, and visa eligibility. If there are any concerns, they will be reviewed during the visa assistance process.

How to book

Fill out the interest form. Pay the deposit. You're in.

01

Fill out the interest form

It is right below. It is not a booking: it tells me you are interested, and it is where you ask your questions.

02

Pay the $750 deposit

This is what saves your spot. That's it. You're in. Send it by Wise, Venmo, Revolut or PayPal on the payment page.

03

Get ready

Visa guidance, a packing list and a briefing call. Bring your questions.

04

Pay the rest

Due 30 days before the trip starts. After that there are no refunds.

Start here · no commitment

Interested? Fill out the interest form.

Fill it out and I'll contact you ASAP. It is not a booking and it costs nothing. It tells me you are interested, and it is the place to ask me anything. Your spot is only saved when you pay the deposit.

Fill it out and I'll contact you ASAP. Not a booking. Costs nothing.

Fill out the interest form ↓

Cancellation and refunds, in plain words

  • Your $750 depositFull refund if you cancel within 48 hours of paying it. After 48 hours it is non-refundable.
  • The rest of the priceDue 30 days before the trip starts.
  • The last 30 daysNo refunds once the trip is 30 days away or less.
  • If the trip is cancelled by usYou get everything back, deposit included.

Read the full cancellation and refund policy →

Limited spots left · Dec 22–29, 2026

Step 1: the interest form.

This is not a booking yet. Spots are limited, and yours is saved when you pay the $750 deposit.

  • This is not a bookingSending the form does not put you on the trip, and it costs nothing. It only tells me you are interested.
  • What happens nextI reply myself, by WhatsApp or email. Got questions? Ask them in the form.
  • Step 2: pay the $750 depositThis is what saves your spot. By Wise, Venmo, Revolut or PayPal on the payment page. That's it. You're in.
  • RefundsThe deposit is refundable for 48 hours, then non-refundable. See the cancellation and refund policy.
  • Your detailsOnly used to reply to you and to plan your trip. They are shared with SyrianGuides, the licensed company that runs the trip, when you book. See the Privacy Policy.

Email me to save your spot →