The lovely little Al-Zuhur Environmental Garden is the first botanical garden in Syria, planted in 2003 between the northern walls of the Citadel and the Barada river, with funding from the Swiss embassy. Some 300 different plant species, representing around 10% of Syria's variety, are grouped in 'islands' along the winding paths, and you can find areas like the aromatic plants with rosemary, hollyhock, lavender and lemon, or an area with cacti and succulents, or medicinal plants. Don't miss the island with fragrant white Damask jasmine, the the national flower and the city's favourite fragrance. There's an airy cafe with garden views that makes for a very peaceful break, just a few minutes walk from the main souk area.