Overview
Damascus is the capital and largest city of Syria, with a history spanning over 10,000 years. It was the capital of the Umayyad Caliphate and is home to the Umayyad Mosque, the Street Called Straight, and other significant religious sites.
Architecture · History · Museums
Before you go
Accommodation
Budget hotels in Souq-Al-Saroujah; avoid Merjeh if alone female.
Connectivity
WiFi available but censored; international calls expensive; internet cafes for VOIP.
Culture
Women must cover hair, arms, legs in Umayyad Mosque; abayas provided.
Money
Cash is essential; ATMs unreliable, credit cards not widely accepted. US dollars preferred for exchange.
Safety
Checkpoints frequent; avoid taking advice from taxi drivers; con artists common.
Transport
Best to walk during rush hours (10:00-16:00); smoking banned on public transport.