Start your Northern Syria adventure in Aleppo, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. As the commercial and cultural hub of Northern Syria, Aleppo boasts a remarkable blend of ancient architecture and bustling markets. Begin your exploration with the legendary Aleppo Citadel. Wander through its stone ramparts and discover panoramic views of the city below. Then, head to the famous Souq Al-Madina, once the largest covered market in the world. The souq’s maze of alleyways is filled with shops selling everything from spices and textiles to traditional crafts. For a deeper dive into Aleppo’s heritage, visit the Aleppo National Museum to see artifacts spanning from prehistoric times to the Islamic era.  For more on Aleppo’s history, visit UNESCO’s Aleppo Citadel page

On day two, explore the remarkable St. Simeon Church ruins, located just outside Aleppo. Known for its exceptional architecture and historical significance, St. Simeon Church was once an important religious center in Northern Syria. This serene location offers a peaceful atmosphere to reflect and learn about the rich history surrounding Aleppo and the wider region. The ruins showcase early Christian architectural styles, including unique stone pillars and arches that have withstood the test of time. After visiting St. Simeon, return to Aleppo and spend your evening strolling through the city’s vibrant streets. Relax at one of the cozy cafés, savoring traditional Syrian tea or coffee while soaking in the local culture and lively ambiance

Dedicate day three to exploring Apamea, one of Northern Syria’s most impressive archaeological sites. Located about 90 kilometers west of Aleppo, Apamea was a major city in the Hellenistic and Roman periods, famous for its grand colonnaded street—the longest of its kind in the ancient world. Walk along the magnificent ruins of Apamea’s colonnade, which once stretched nearly 2 kilometers. Discover the remains of theaters, baths, and temples that tell the story of a city that was a vital cultural and economic center in Northern Syria. Exploring Apamea allows you to dive deep into the layers of history that shaped the region and offers spectacular photo opportunities of Syria’s archaeological heritage. Learn more about Apamea on Archaeology Wiki’s Apamea page.

On day four, journey to Hama, a historic city in Northern Syria renowned for its ancient waterwheels known as norias. These giant wooden wheels, some dating back over a thousand years, were traditionally used to lift water from the Orontes River to irrigate the city’s gardens and orchards. Stroll along the riverbanks and marvel at these engineering marvels, which have become symbols of Hama’s heritage. The city also offers beautiful old neighborhoods with traditional architecture and bustling markets where you can experience authentic local life. Hama’s unique blend of natural beauty and cultural history makes it an essential stop when exploring Northern Syria. Read more about Hama’s norias on Britannica: Hama

Spend a leisurely day revisiting your favorite spots in Aleppo. Whether you’re exploring well-known landmarks or uncovering hidden gems, there’s always something new to discover in this historic city. Take time to shop at the local markets, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, or simply unwind in one of Aleppo’s cozy cafés. Don’t miss out on the delicious Aleppine cuisine, a true highlight of the city. Enjoy the peaceful pace and soak in the atmosphere of Aleppo, where history and modern life blend beautifully