Exploring the Temple of Bel Ruins
Central Ruins 2 hrs
Witness the remnants of the grand Temple of Bel, a central feature of ancient Palmyra.
Where to stay
Hotels in Palmyra
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At a glance
Climate
Arid
Languages
Arabic
Local currency
SYP
(SYP)
Local time
(GMT-4)
Ideal trip length
1–2 days
Cost level
2 of 5 · our research
Suggested area to stay
N/A - Not advised
Tap water
Bottled water recommended
Tipping
Expected for services
What this place is for
History
95 · Outstanding
Culture
90 · Outstanding
Food
90 · Outstanding
Family
0 · Moderate
Our own 0–100 ratings for this one destination. They describe a city; they are not a league table of cities.
Food to try
Kibbeh
Shawarma
Hummus
Baklava
When to visit Palmyra
How good each month is here, on this destination's own scale. It compares months within this city, never one city against another.
Best months: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
Busiest: N/A - Not advised
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Jan0
Mild, some rain
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Feb0
Mild, some rain
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Mar0
Warm, clear
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Apr0
Warm, clear
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May0
Hot, dry
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Jun0
Very hot, dry
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Jul0
Very hot, dry
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Aug0
Very hot, dry
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Sept0
Hot, dry
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Oct0
Warm, clear
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Nov0
Mild, clear
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Dec0
Mild, some rain
Things to do in Palmyra
6 places worth your time, grouped by when they are at their best.
Showing 6 of 6 places ·
Best in the morning
2 places
Walking the Great Colonnade
Central Ruins 1.5 hrs
Stroll along the impressive Great Colonnade, once the main thoroughfare of the city.
Best in the afternoon
3 places
Visiting the Roman Theatre
Central Ruins 1 hr
Discover the well-preserved Roman Theatre, a testament to Palmyra's cultural life.
Discovering the Valley of the Tombs
West of Ruins 2 hrs
Explore the ancient funerary towers and hypogea in the Valley of the Tombs.
Observing Qala'at ibn Ma'an (Palmyra Castle)
Hilltop 1 hr
Gaze upon the medieval Arab castle overlooking the ancient city and oasis.
Any time of day
1 place
Viewing the Tetrapylon
Central Ruins 0.5 hrs
Admire the Tetrapylon, a cubic monument marking a key intersection in the ancient city.
Palmyra itineraries
With the family
3 Days in Palmyra — Family with Kids
Uncover ancient wonders and desert tales in the legendary city of Palmyra, perfect for curious young explorers.
This 3-day itinerary invites families with children to step back in time and explore the majestic ruins of Palmyra, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Kids will love imagining life in this ancient desert oasis, from grand temples to a queen's castle, making history come alive through engaging exploration and captivating stories.
3 Days
14 Stops
See the full plan
First-timer highlights
3 Days in Palmyra — First-Timer Highlights
Uncover the timeless grandeur of the 'Pearl of the Desert' on this essential journey.
This 3-day itinerary is meticulously crafted for first-time visitors eager to experience the majestic ancient city of Palmyra. It guides you through the most iconic ruins, from grand colonnades to sacred temples, offering a comprehensive glimpse into its rich history and architectural marvels. Perfect for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers seeking to immerse themselves in one of the world's most significant archaeological sites.
3 Days
12 Stops
See the full plan
Food and drink
2 Days in Palmyra — Food & Wine
Savor the flavors of ancient Syria amidst the grandeur of Palmyra's timeless ruins.
This unique 2-day itinerary invites travelers to explore the majestic archaeological site of Palmyra while indulging in authentic Syrian culinary traditions. Designed for history buffs and gourmands, it blends immersive cultural experiences with opportunities to taste local delicacies and appreciate the region's rich heritage.
2 Days
10 Stops
See the full plan
For couples
2 Days in Palmyra — Romance
Uncover ancient wonders and rekindle your love amidst the timeless beauty of the desert city.
This 2-day itinerary invites couples to embark on a romantic journey through the majestic ruins of Palmyra, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore grand temples, walk hand-in-hand along ancient colonnades, and witness breathtaking desert sunsets, creating unforgettable shared memories in a setting steeped in history and mystique. It's designed for those seeking a unique blend of cultural immersion and intimate moments.
2 Days
10 Stops
See the full plan
Culture and history
3 Days in Palmyra — Culture & History
Journey through the heart of the Syrian desert to uncover the legendary Queen Zenobia's ancient city.
This immersive 3-day itinerary invites history enthusiasts and culture seekers to explore the magnificent ruins of Palmyra, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Delve into the rich tapestry of its Roman, Greek, and Persian influences, from grand temples to intricate tombs, offering a profound glimpse into a once-thriving Silk Road metropolis. Experience the grandeur of an ancient desert oasis that once rivaled Rome.
3 Days
13 Stops
See the full plan
Practical ratings
Our own ratings and key insights for this destination.
Near Palmyra
Straight-line distance from the centre of Palmyra.
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Getaways from Palmyra
Places people from Palmyra travel to, from our own travel research.
