Things To Do
in Al Qardāḩah
Al Qardāḩah is a historic hill town in Latakia Governorate, perched among the coastal mountains of Syria. It is known as the birthplace of the Assad family and features narrow stone streets, whitewashed houses, and panoramic views of the Mediterranean. The town blends mountain village life with maritime influences from nearby Latakia, offering markets, tea houses, and gateways to cedar forests.
Visitors should prepare for a conservative, family-friendly atmosphere with warm hospitality and a slower pace of life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the quaint town of Al Qardāḩah, nestled amongst the scenic mountains. Take some time to settle into your accommodation, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Syrian pastries.
Explore the historical sites of Al Qardāḩah, starting with a visit to the beautiful Grand Mosque. Wander through the charming narrow streets, where you can appreciate local architecture and perhaps find some handmade crafts. Stop for a leisurely lunch at a bustling eatery, trying local specialties.
As the sun begins to set, head to a viewpoint for a panoramic view of the town and its stunning surroundings. Enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant, where you can savor authentic Syrian cuisine. Conclude your day with a stroll through the town, listening to the sounds of local life.
Begin your day with breakfast at a local bakery, where the scent of freshly baked bread fills the air. Visit the ancient fortress located on a nearby hill, exploring its rich history and breathtaking views. Take some time to enjoy the calm surroundings as you reflect on the morning's adventures.
After a guided tour of the fortress, head to the nearby archaeological museum to discover artifacts that narrate the region's past. Enjoy lunch in a nearby café, where you can mingle with local artists and historians. After lunch, take a leisurely walk through the town's cultural sites.
As evening falls, attend a local cultural event or performance that showcases the rich heritage of Al Qardāḩah. Savor a traditional dinner with a local family, gaining insights into the customs and daily life of the residents. End the night with a relaxed conversation under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $30-70 |
| ☕Coffee in local cafe | $1-2 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance) | $1-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and hospitality
- Scenic mountain and coastal landscapes
- Proximity to Latakia and cedar forests
- Delicious Levantine cuisine and warm markets
- Historical significance as the Assad family's birthplace
- Limited tourism infrastructure and services
- Travel advisories and safety considerations for Syria
- Remote from major international hubs
- Occasional road closures or delays in rural areas
- Smaller nightlife and fewer entertainment options
- "مرحبا" - Hello
- "شكراً" - Thank you
- "من فضلك" - Please
- "كم سعر هذا؟" - How much is this?
- "أين الحمام؟" - Where is the bathroom?
- "هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟" - Do you speak English?
- "أريد مساعدة" - I need help
- "أين أقرب مستشفى؟" - Where is the nearest hospital?
- "ماء" - Water
- "وداعاً" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Al Qardāḩah
Visit one of these nice places.
Narrow lanes, stone stairways and colorful doors with a mountain backdrop.
Panoramic views of the coast from elevated viewpoints; best at sunrise or sunset.
Ancient cedar trees and misty landscapes; ideal for nature and landscape photography.
Texture-rich walls, wooden balconies and daily life scenes in morning light.
Food in Al Qardāḩah
Al Qardāḩah Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh fish or shrimp, seasoned with herbs and lemon, grilled over charcoal.
Must-Try!
Skewered marinated meat served with flatbread and herbs.
Creamy chickpea dip finished with good olive oil and toasted pine nuts.
Smoky eggplant dip with tahini, garlic and lemon.
Crispy chickpea fritters served with sesame sauce and fresh salad.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for fresh produce, olives, herbs and local snacks; best in the morning.
Falafel wraps, shawarma, flatbreads and seasonal sweets available from small stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly in public spaces, especially in rural areas and religious sites.
Greet with a warm handshake; use the right hand; show respect in conversations.
Ask permission before photographing people; avoid sensitive sites or people without consent.
Safety
Tipping in Al Qardāḩah
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common for good service. In restaurants, 5-10% is typical; for taxis rounding up to the nearest pound or lira is appreciated.
Cash in local currency is widely used. USD or EUR may be accepted in some places. Credit cards are not widely available; ATMs are relatively scarce.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry along the coast with high humidity; carry water, wear sun protection and light clothing; evenings can be cooler on the mountains.
Mild and comfortable temperatures; great for outdoor exploration and photography.
Cool to mild with occasional rain; bring a warm jacket and waterproof shoes; some mountain routes may be slippery.
Lush landscapes with wildflowers; pleasant temperatures and longer days; ideal for hiking and city walks.
Al Qardāḩah at Night
Hiking in Al Qardāḩah
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular hiking routes through cedar groves with panoramic views.
Ridge trails along the Latakia coast with sea views.
Airports
How to reach Al Qardāḩah by plane.
The main international gateway for Latakia Governorate; connected to regional and some international destinations; from here you can hire a car or take a taxi to Qardāḩah.
Alternative international gateway located farther inland; more frequent connections but requires longer road transfer to Qardāḩah.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant in the town with strong cultural traditions.
Smaller Sunni and Christian communities contribute to local diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, played on local fields and followed by many residents.
Common in schools and community centers; weekend games are a social event.
Coastal communities engage in fishing and light water activities along the Latakia coastline.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Al Qardāḩah.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can enjoy hummus, mutabbal, falafel, salads, lentil soups and eggplant dishes; ask for vegetable-based stews without meat stock; communicate dietary needs clearly in Arabic if possible.