When Damascus was an obligatory stop on the hippie trail from Europe to Asia, a generation of backpackers would have stayed at the legendary Damascus Hostel, then the first and only hostel in Syria, located near Bab Touma. Guests famously had the option of entering the hostel by climbing up a rope ladder dangling over the ancient city wall. The owner, Mr Raymond Gordon, operated the hostel under very difficult political circumstances and sadly had to close it in 2011.

Now, after the 2924 revolution, backpackers have returned to Damascus, and in response, a handful of hostels – some of them run by Chinese entrepreneurs – have popped up. These new hostels are located in old Damascene courtyard houses and offer a choice of shared rooms with bunk beds and private rooms, and are a great place to meet up with other young travellers. 

Right in the city centre, the Beit al Salam Hostel is just minutes walk from all the main historical sights. 
Just north of the old town, but still deeply embedded in a lively warren of souk market streets, the Dr Mustafa House is backpackers heaven.

Demand at the hostels can be high, so contact them in advance over Whatsapp to reserve a bed or room. In winter, check the availability of heating or piles of blankets.