Top Things to Do in Aleppo

Aleppo, Syria

About the City

Aleppo, an Ancient City of Contrast Picture yourself wandering through the bustling souks of Aleppo, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. This Syrian gem brews a tapestry of history and culture, where every stone in the citadel whispers tales of civilizations long past. In Aleppo, you can savor the world-renowned cuisine; the scent of spices and flavor of kebabs promise a culinary dance on the taste buds. But it's not just feasting and tales. Famed for its thick-walled fortresses and the legendary Aleppo Soap, made with olive oil and laurel, the city is a haven for history buffs and those keen to take a piece of tradition home. Despite this, the city bears scars from the echoes of conflict, and the patchwork of rebuilt and crumbled architecture tells a story of resilience and revival. From the auditory feast of call to prayer to the chatter of local storytellers, Aleppo's character is rich and contrasting. And while navigating the contrasts between the old majesty and modern challenges, one can't help but be moved by the spirit of the Aleppians, whose warmth and hospitality shine as brightly as the sun over the ancient stones.

Things to Do in Aleppo

Makdous

Food & Drink

Prepare your palate for a pickled adventure with Makdous! These tiny, eggplant treasures are stuffed with a tantalizing mix of walnuts, garlic, and red peppers, then bathed in olive oil. It's the perf...

The Lure of Lush Gardens

Outdoors

Uncover the secret gardens of Aleppo, pockets of paradise where you can relax, smell the flowers, and forget the world for a little while. It's nature's own spa treatment!

Turkish Coffee Grounds Divination

The Unexpected

Let the coffee grounds tell your fortune after enjoying a traditional Turkish coffee. It's like having a chat with your future self, minus the time-travel nausea.

Soap Opera at Khan Al Saboun

The Unexpected

Get down and sudsy with Aleppo's famous laurel soap at Khan Al Saboun. It's a bubbly treasure hunt for the perfect bar to keep you squeaky clean like you just slid down a rainbow!

Caffeine Buzz at Coppersmith Bazaar

The Unexpected

Dive into the heart of the Coppersmith Bazaar and grab one of Syria's famously strong coffees. It's like a wake-up slap to your senses, without the sting of getting actually slapped.

Sweets Symphony at Ghraoui

The Unexpected

Treat your sweet tooth to a symphony of Syrian confections at Ghraoui, where chocolate and sugar are spun into edible gold. It's a candyland for grown-ups, with the bonus of zero chance of a Willy Won...

Birdwatching Bliss

Outdoors

Got binoculars? Great! Aleppo's skies are aflutter with feathered locals. Find a cozy nook in one of the city's green zones and play peek-a-bird. Who needs a tv when you've got live avian acrobatics?

Ghost Town Exploration

Outdoors

Ready for some eerie excitement? Explore the abandoned areas in the outskirts of Aleppo. Thrills and chills are guaranteed – and no, we’re not talking about the temperature!

The Quest for Quaint Bridges

Outdoors

Leave no stone unturned in your quest to find and traverse Aleppo's ancient bridges. It's like a trek through time, minus the time machine!

Aleppo's Roof-Top Marvels

Outdoors

Why walk when you can climb? Get a fresh new angle on Aleppo by discovering spots where you can admire the city from above. Think of it as your urban mountain, without the frostbite!

Su Boregi

Food & Drink

Get ready to soak your senses in Su Boregi, a steamy, cheesy affair that'll have you swooning over layers of buttery phyllo pastry and melting cheese. It's like a love letter to your stomach written i...

Hammam Hopping

Sights

Dive into relaxation at Aleppo's traditional hammams. Let steam and history envelop you in a warm embrace, and emerge rejuvenated like a phoenix from the ashes... or just a really chill tourist.

A Stroll through the Ancient Streets of Al-Dahdah

Sights

Take a casual jaunt through the neighborhood of Al-Dahdah. Revel in the charm of its old-world architecture and imagine you're a merchant from days gone by—no haggling required!

Step Back in Time at the Church of Saint George

Sights

Witness the fusion of ancient heritage and timeless faith at the Church of Saint George. Imagine listening to stories that span centuries, all while admiring the hushed tranquility of this spiritual h...

Savor the Silence at Saint Simeon Stylites

Sights

Craving some peace and quiet? The Saint Simeon Stylites ruins offer the perfect spot to meditate like a monk, with killer panoramic views on the side. Just don't try to stand on a pillar—you'll want t...

Uncover the Magic at the Dead City of Serjilla

Sights

Get your Indiana Jones on at the Dead City of Serjilla, where ancient ruins tell tales of a once-bustling Byzantine town. It's your chance to play archaeologist for the day—minus the fedora and whip!

Kebab Halabi

Food & Drink

Dive into the smoky flavors of Kebab Halabi, skewers of spiced minced meat that'll make your taste buds party like it's 999. It's like a meaty hug for your stomach, and you know you wanna RSVP to that...

Fatteh

Food & Drink

Get ready to experience a piece of heaven with Fatteh! Imagine a cozy blanket of crispy, golden pita pieces, all snuggled up with fluffy rice, and tender chunks of lamb or chicken, then drenched in ga...

Za'atar Manakish

Food & Drink

It's time to spice up your life with some Za'atar Manakish! Picture a warm, crispy flatbread sprinkled with a magical mix of za'atar—a zesty, herby seasoning—and olive oil. Toasted to perfection, it's...

Historical Guesthouse Stay

The Unexpected

Ditch the hotel and spend the night in a historical guesthouse. Sleep under the same roofs where merchants and travelers rested centuries ago—it's like a sleepover with history as your host!