Syria in December
December weather, activities, events & insider tips
December Weather in Syria
Is December Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect temperatures for exploring ancient sites - 18°C (64°F) highs mean comfortable walking through Palmyra and Aleppo Citadel without overheating
- Minimal rainfall with only 8 rainy days and 45mm (1.8 inches) total - ideal for outdoor archaeological visits and desert excursions
- Clear winter air provides exceptional visibility for photography at Damascus Old City and Krak des Chevaliers castle
- Local winter foods peak in December - enjoy hot mujaddara, kibbeh soup, and seasonal citrus from Latakia groves at their absolute best
Considerations
- Mountain regions like Qadisha Valley can drop to -2°C (28°F) at night requiring serious winter gear for higher altitude destinations
- Shorter daylight hours mean archaeological sites close by 4pm, limiting afternoon exploration time
- Occasional winter storms can make mountain roads to Ma'loula and other highland villages temporarily impassable for 1-2 days
Best Activities in December
Damascus Old City Walking Tours
December's cool 18°C (64°F) temperatures make the 3-4 hour walks through Straight Street and Umayyad Mosque comfortable without summer's exhausting heat. Early morning tours (8am start) take advantage of crisp air and golden winter light perfect for photography. Minimal crowds mean unobstructed views of ancient Roman arches and Byzantine mosaics.
Palmyra Desert Archaeological Tours
December weather is ideal for exploring Palmyra ruins - comfortable walking temperatures without summer's brutal 45°C (113°F) heat that makes afternoon visits unbearable. Clear winter skies provide impressive contrast for photographing Temple of Bel columns. Desert camping tours are pleasant with cool nights perfect for stargazing.
Aleppo Citadel and Souk Tours
Cool December weather makes climbing the citadel's ancient steps comfortable, while covered souks provide shelter during brief winter showers. Traditional winter crafts like handwoven wool carpets are actively produced in December workshops. Steam from traditional hammams creates atmospheric photography opportunities in the crisp air.
Krak des Chevaliers Castle Tours
December's moderate temperatures make the steep castle climbs manageable, while clear winter air provides panoramic views across the Orontes Valley that are often hazy in summer. Medieval stone chambers maintain comfortable temperatures during cool December days. Photography lighting is exceptional with low winter sun angles.
Coastal Latakia Food and Market Tours
December brings peak citrus season to Latakia's coastal groves - experience fresh oranges, lemons, and unique Syrian bitter orange harvest. Cool coastal temperatures make market walking pleasant while traditional winter stews like fasoulia are at their seasonal best. Fishing boats return with winter catches perfect for coastal cuisine tours.
Ma'loula Village and Monastery Tours
December's cool weather makes the mountain village climbs comfortable, though nights can drop to 2°C (36°F). Ancient Aramaic Christmas preparations begin in December, offering unique cultural insights. Monastery visits are peaceful with minimal tourists, allowing quiet contemplation in ancient chapels carved into cliffsides.
December Events & Festivals
Damascus Winter Citrus Festival
Local celebration of orange and lemon harvest from surrounding orchards. Traditional juice vendors set up in Old City squares, offering fresh seasonal blends impossible to find other times of year. Local families gather for picnics featuring winter citrus dishes.
Aleppo Soap Making Season
Traditional olive oil soap production reaches peak activity in December using the autumn olive harvest. Workshops in restored Old City areas demonstrate ancient techniques passed down through generations. Visitors can observe the cutting and stamping processes that create Aleppo's famous green soap.