Things To Do
in Nawá

Nawá is a historic town located in southern Syria, known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional architecture. The town is situated in the Daraa Governorate and has been a vital center of agriculture for centuries, often referred to as the 'Gateway to the Golan Heights.' Nawá boasts beautiful landscapes, with olive groves and rolling hills surrounding it.

Visitors can experience local hospitality, historical sites, and a taste of Syrian culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Nawá's Heritage
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the historic Nawá Citadel, where you can explore the ancient ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the town.

afternoon
:

Visit the local souk (market) to experience the vibrant atmosphere and shop for handmade crafts and spices.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, savoring traditional Syrian dishes while soaking in the ambiance of Nawá's evening life.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a short hike to the nearby olive groves, where you can learn about olive oil production and enjoy the natural scenery.

afternoon
:

Visit the local museum to learn about Nawá's history and cultural significance in the region.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a visit to a local café for coffee and dessert, engaging with locals and reflecting on your experiences.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$5
Coffee$1
🚕Taxi Fare within Town$2
🛍️Souvenir$3
🍞Loaf of Bread$0.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Friendly and hospitable locals.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
  • Potential safety concerns due to the political situation.
  • Infrastructure may be lacking in certain areas.
  • "مرحبا" - Hello
  • "شكرا" - Thank you
  • "من فضلك" - Please
  • "نعم" - Yes
  • "لا" - No

Places to Visit in Nawá

Visit one of these nice places.

Nawá Citadel

An ancient structure offering stunning views of the town and surrounding landscapes, perfect for capturing the essence of Nawá.

Olive Groves

The picturesque olive groves around Nawá provide a serene backdrop for photography, especially during sunset.

Local Souk

A vibrant marketplace filled with colors, people, and local crafts, ideal for candid street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nawá

Nawá offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing traditional Syrian flavors and ingredients that reflect the region's agricultural richness.

Nawá Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Mansaf

A traditional dish made of lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt and served over rice.

Must-Try!

Kebab Hindi

Spiced ground meat skewers, grilled to perfection, often served with fresh bread and salads.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Nawá Souk

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and local street food like falafel and shawarma.

Climate Guide

Weather

Nawá has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 35°C (95°F), while winter temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). Spring and autumn are pleasant, with temperatures averaging around 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), making these seasons ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

Visitors should dress conservatively to respect local customs, especially in religious sites.

Greeting Customs

A handshake is common when greeting, but it is polite to wait for a woman to extend her hand first.

Hospitality

Accepting offers of tea or coffee is seen as a sign of respect; it is polite to refuse once before accepting.

Safety Guide

Safety

While Nawá is generally safe for tourists, it is essential to stay informed about the current political climate and avoid any areas that may be experiencing unrest. Basic safety precautions should be taken, such as avoiding walking alone at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings.

Tipping in Nawá

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants, but you may leave more if service is exceptional.

Payment Methods

Cash is the primary payment method in Nawá, with the Syrian Pound being the local currency; some places may accept credit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring an ideal time to visit, with many local festivals celebrating the season.

Summer

Hot and dry, summer is less crowded, but travelers should be prepared for high temperatures, especially in July and August.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage create a picturesque setting for outdoor activities and photography.

Winter

Winter can be chilly, but it offers a unique charm with fewer tourists; however, some attractions may have limited hours.

Nightlife Guide

Nawá at Night

Nawá's nightlife is quite subdued compared to larger cities, with a focus on family-friendly gatherings. Cafés and restaurants often stay open late, providing a cozy atmosphere for socializing. Local events and cultural gatherings can occasionally be found, offering a glimpse into the community's traditions.

Hiking in Nawá

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Hermon Trail

A scenic hike that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area, including the Golan Heights and the Sea of Galilee.

Quneitra Trail

This trail provides an adventurous hike through diverse landscapes, ideal for those looking to explore the natural beauty of the region.

Airports

How to reach Nawá by plane.

Daraa Airport

Located approximately 30 km from Nawá, Daraa Airport offers limited domestic flights and is the nearest air travel option for visitors.

Getting Around

Walkability

Nawá is relatively walkable, with many attractions located within close proximity to each other. The town's layout allows for easy navigation on foot, and the local streets are generally safe for pedestrians. Sidewalks may not always be well-maintained, so visitors should be cautious while walking.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Syrian Arabs

The majority of the population in Nawá is made up of Syrian Arabs, who have a rich cultural and historical heritage.

Druze Community

Nawá is also home to a small Druze community, known for their unique beliefs and traditions, contributing to the town's cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Nawá, with local teams and matches attracting enthusiastic crowds.

Basketball

Basketball is also popular among the youth, with local courts frequently used for games and practice.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Nawá is generally light, with most residents using cars or walking to their destinations. Public transportation options may include shared taxis or minibuses, but they are less common than in larger cities. Visitors should be prepared for a more relaxed pace of life regarding transportation.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Nawá.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes are vegetarian-friendly, including salads, hummus, and grilled vegetables.

Halal

All meat served in Nawá is halal, catering to Muslim dietary laws.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Nawá is limited, with a few local clinics available for basic medical needs. For more serious conditions, it may be necessary to travel to larger cities like Daraa for better facilities. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance and to carry any necessary medications.

Discover Syria

Read more in our Syria 2025 Travel Guide.

Syria Travel Guide