Palmyra

Syria, Middle East

Palmyra, often called the "Pearl of the Desert," is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning ancient ruins and rich history. The magnificent Temple of Bel, the grand colonnade, and well-preserved tombs showcase a blend of Roman and Persian architecture. Visitors are captivated by the vast desert landscape surrounding the archaeological wonders. Its deep cultural significance and the mesmerizing sight of ruins at sunset make Palmyra a truly enchanting destination.

Quick facts

Target stay

2-3 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Palmyra

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

8 Best Things to Do in Palmyra

1

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Ancient City of Palmyra

Wander through stunning ruins of a once-thriving city.

No booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Temple of Bel

Admire the majestic remains of this ancient temple.

No booking required
3

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

See the Arch of Triumph

Stand under the iconic archway of Palmyra.

No booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Museum of Palmyra

Discover artifacts and history of Palmyra's past.

No booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Valley of the Tombs

Explore ancient burial sites with stunning architecture.

No booking required
6

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Photograph the Colonnade of Palmyra

Capture the beauty of the ancient colonnade.

No booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Witness the Sunset at Palmyra

Experience breathtaking sunsets over ancient ruins.

No booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Great Colonnade

Stroll along the historic walkway lined with columns.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

No data

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Very Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

-13 (#184 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Syrian Pound

Majority religion

Muslim

Language

Arabic

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Kibbeh Bil Sanieh

Baked kibbeh with spiced meat. (National dish)

Fattoush

VE

Mixed salad with crispy bread.

Hummus

VE

Creamy chickpea dip with tahini.

Baklava

V

Sweet pastry filled with nuts and syrup.

Shawarma

Spiced meat wrapped in pita bread.

Phrases to learn

English

Arabic

Hello

Marhaban

(Mar-ha-ban)

Yes/No

Naam / La

(Nah-am / Lah)

Thank you

Shukran

(Shook-ran)

Excuse me

Afwan

(Ahf-wan)

How much?

Kam?

(Kam)