Syria in February
February weather, activities, events & insider tips
February Weather in Syria
Is February Right for You?
Advantages
- Minimal tourist crowds at major sites like Palmyra and Krak des Chevaliers - you'll often have ancient ruins entirely to yourself
- Perfect weather for exploring Damascus Old City on foot - cool temperatures make 3-4 hour walking tours comfortable without overheating
- Citrus season brings incredibly cheap and fresh oranges (50 SYP/kg) and lemons throughout markets, plus traditional winter dishes like kibbeh nayyeh
- Hotel rates drop 40-60% from December peaks, with quality guesthouses in Damascus available for $25-35/night instead of $50+
Considerations
- Mountain regions like Sednaya and Maaloula can be inaccessible due to snow and mud - roads become treacherous for 3-5 days after storms
- Frequent power outages during winter storms can last 8-12 hours, affecting heating, internet, and hot water in budget accommodations
- Afternoon rain showers occur 12-15 days per month, often lasting 1-2 hours and making ancient stone surfaces extremely slippery
Best Activities in February
Damascus Old City Heritage Walking Tours
February's cool temperatures (15-18°C/59-64°F) make this UNESCO site perfect for 4-6 hour explorations. The winter light creates impressive photography conditions in the narrow alleys, and you'll avoid the oppressive summer heat that makes midday walking unbearable. Local guides are more available and negotiable during low season.
Aleppo Citadel and Souk Exploration
The ancient citadel is magnificent in February's clear, cool air with excellent visibility across the city. The covered souks provide perfect shelter during rain showers, and winter is when locals do their serious shopping - you'll see authentic daily life rather than tourist-focused activity.
Krak des Chevaliers Castle Expeditions
This Crusader castle is spectacular in February's crisp weather - you can see for miles across the countryside. Cool temperatures make the steep climbs comfortable, and there are virtually no crowds. However, check road conditions as mountain access can be difficult after storms.
Traditional Hammam and Spa Experiences
February's cool, damp weather makes traditional bathhouses incredibly appealing. Historic hammams in Damascus and Aleppo offer real feels, and the contrast between cool outside air and warm steam rooms is perfect. This is when locals frequent hammams most.
Palmyra Archaeological Site Tours
February offers the best conditions for exploring these ancient ruins - comfortable walking temperatures and dramatic winter lighting for photography. The desert climate means less rain than coastal areas, and you'll have this UNESCO site mostly to yourself.
Maaloula Monastery and Village Visits
This ancient Christian village is beautiful in winter, with possible light snow creating magical scenes around the monasteries. February is perfect for the uphill walks between sites, though check weather for mountain road accessibility after storms.
February Events & Festivals
Damascus Rose Water Preparation Season
Traditional families begin preparing rose water and preserves using dried roses from the previous year's harvest. You can observe this process in Old Damascus neighborhoods and purchase authentic products directly from producers.
Citrus Festival Activities
February marks peak citrus season throughout the coastal regions and Damascus suburbs. Local markets feature elaborate displays of oranges, lemons, and grapefruits, with traditional preservation techniques on display.