Hidden Hotel Gems: Damascus / Syria

Old Town Hotels of Damascus

After having lived and worked for a year in the world's oldest city, Damascus, I still have a very special place reserved at the bottom of my heart for the country, its people and its culture.

The Old Town of Damascus

Back in 2006, the tourism and especially the hotel infrastructure was nothing to write home about -- but thing have changed since then. Especially the cultural heritage hotels, built up in some of the most beautiful ancient courtyard house in the the old city of Damascus, add an exclusive flavour to the local accommodation scene.

Night View of Damascus from Jebel Qassioun

Some of these hotels are real gems and offer a unique way of spending the night in Damascus. This is reason enough to present them here in this weblog. But beware: The are not cheap -- yet staying there might have the side effect of spoiling the guest forever...

____________________________________________________

Beit Al Mamlouka

Homepage of Beit Al Mamlouka in Damascus

This tiny boutique hotel was the front runner, opening its doors in 2005, with a central location in the Christian quarter, close to Bab Touma. The building dates back to the 17th century and it offers 8 treasured rooms and suites in a beautifully restored atmosphere. Room rprices per night range between USD 150 and 300 (plus tax) and include a lavish breakfast.

Further information, contact and reservation:

Beit Al Mamlouka

____________________________________________________

Talisman Hotel

Homepage of Talisman Hotel in Damascus

Few steps away from the Roman Arch on Straight Street, the Talisman Hotel praises itself as a charming luxury gateway in the heart of Damascus. A total of 17 individually decorated hotels are offered, situated around a pleasant and refreshing courtyard. Rates range from USD225 for a deluxe room to USD325 for a suite (plus tax).

Further information, contact and reservation:

Talisman Hotel

____________________________________________________

Oldvine Hotel

Homepage of Oldvine Hotel in Damascus

Over the course of two years, this old house has been transformed into a boutique hotel. A total of 9 bedrooms are offered, and in traditional methods were used in the renovation of the individual suites. Room prices oscillate between USD140 and USD 190 (plus tax). It has a central location just north of the Great Mosque and the Hammidiyeh souq.

Further information, contact and reservation:

Oldvine Hotel

____________________________________________________

Beit Zamman

Homepage of Beit Zamman in Damascus

On a prominten location directly on Madhat Basha (Straight Street), the Beit Zamman looks back over a building history of 300 years. With a total 28 rooms, it has ample space available, with a beautiful courtyard and a hammam. Prices (incl. tax) range from USD175 up to USD1,400 -- but the latter provides you with an entire private house with four bedrooms.

Further information, contact and reservation
Beit Zamman

____________________________________________________

Surely, the hotels are not the cheapest to be found in and around Damascus -- but they certainly represent the most authentic way to experience this amazing city and its cultural treasures.

Enjoy your stay!


Andreas Hauser