Things to do in Palmyra Desert
Discover the best attractions and experiences Palmyra Desert has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore the monumental ruins of Tadmor, set in the vast Syrian desert, bearing witness to its ancient glory.
Temple of Bel
A monumental temple to Bel, among Palmyra's most iconic religious complexes.
Temple of Baal
An ancient temple dedicated to Baal, part of Palmyra’s grand religious ensemble.
Great Colonnade (Straight Street)
A grand, lined street that connects Palmyra's western and eastern gates.
Tetrapylon
The square arrangement of four gateways marking the ancient city’s grid and main axis.
Roman Theatre
A preserved hillside theatre used for entertainment in ancient Palmyra.
Museums
Delve into Palmyra’s past through its preserved artefacts and displays.
Palmyra Museum
Exhibits from Palmyra’s long history, including inscriptions and statues.
Tadmur Archaeological Museum
Artifacts uncovered around Tadmor, offering context to the site.
Religious Monuments
Relics of faith carved into Palmyra’s ancient stone tell stories of gods and worship.
Temple of Bel
A monumental religious complex dedicated to the god Bel.
Temple of Baal
An important temple in Palmyra’s temple-oriented landscape.
National & Theme Parks
Explore the UNESCO-listed ruins and the surrounding desert landscapes that frame Palmyra.
Palmyra Archaeological Site (World Heritage)
The legendary ruins set within a vast desert oasis.
Desert Oasis Lookouts around Tadmor
Scenic viewpoints over palms, sand, and distant ruins.
Neighborhoods
Walk through the historic core and surrounding districts that frame Palmyra.
Old Town Palmyra (Tadmor)
The ancient core where ruins mingle with modern life.
Palmyra Riverside & Oasis Neighborhoods
Areas around the oasis that provide a calm desert atmosphere.
Free Things to Do
Experience the desert atmosphere and ruins without an admission fee wherever possible.
Sunset views from the outskirts of the ruins
Watch the light change over the ancient columns as day ends.
Stargazing in the Palmyra desert
Clear desert skies reveal a bright tapestry of stars.
Walk along the Great Colonnade edges
Stroll the ancient avenues from outside the inner site.
Gastronomy
Taste Syrian flavors that travellers in Palmyra seek after desert days.
Bedouin desert camp dining
Enjoy hearty meals in a desert camp with traditional flair.
Syrian kebab and mezze in local eateries
Sample classic grilled meats and dips after a day of exploring.
Nightlife
Evenings in the desert bring a calm, starry environment and cultural displays.
Desert camp evenings with traditional music
Enjoy music, tea, and stories around a desert campfire.
Stargazing and quiet walks under the stars
Quiet nights with clear desert skies offer peace and views.
Entertainment
Cultural performances and visual displays add flavour to visits.
Sound and light show at Palmyra ruins
A multimedia presentation that highlights the site’s history.
Desert camps with live music and storytelling
Evening performances in camps near the ruins.
Sports
Active ways to experience the desert: riding, safaris, and hikes.
Camel riding in the Palmyra desert
Gentle or longer rides amid palm groves and dunes.
Desert 4x4 safari
Exciting dune drives across the sandy landscape.
Sand dune hiking
Sun-warmed sand and open horizon make for a striking trek.
Off the Track
Venture beyond the main sites with guided desert excursions.
Sunrise hike to overlook ancient columns
Arrive early to see the ruins glow in dawn light.
Photography trek through ruin silhouettes
Capture dramatic shapes against desert backdrops.
Desert cycling along ancient routes
Cycle paths that trace historic paths near Tadmor.