Damascus in December
December weather, activities, events & insider tips
December Weather in Damascus
Is December Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect walking weather - cool temperatures 14°C (58°F) during day make exploring the Old City comfortable without overheating
- Clear mountain views - winter air pollution is lowest, offering impressive views of Mount Qassioun and Anti-Lebanon mountains
- Pomegranate and citrus season - local markets overflow with fresh winter fruits at peak ripeness and lowest prices
- Minimal tourist crowds - December sees 70% fewer visitors than spring/fall, meaning authentic interactions and no queues at major sites
Considerations
- Evening temperatures drop to 2°C (35°F) - outdoor dining and late sightseeing require heavy layers
- Unpredictable rain showers on 10 days - can disrupt walking tours of uncovered archaeological sites
- Shortened daylight hours - sunset around 4:30pm limits afternoon sightseeing time
Best Activities in December
Old City Damascus Walking Tours
December's cool weather makes navigating the narrow cobblestone alleys of the UNESCO World Heritage Old City ideal. The 2°C-14°C (35°F-58°F) temperature range means comfortable walking without summer's oppressive heat. Winter light creates perfect photography conditions in the covered souks, and you'll have the Straight Street and Roman arches largely to yourself.
Umayyad Mosque and Islamic Architecture Tours
The mosque's massive courtyard is comfortable to explore in December's mild weather, and winter's low UV index (3) means less harsh lighting for appreciating the intricate mosaics. December coincides with fewer pilgrims, allowing better access to the shrine areas and peaceful contemplation time.
Damascus Citadel and Mount Qassioun Viewpoint
December's clear winter air provides the best visibility for panoramic city views from Mount Qassioun at 1,151m (3,776 ft). The citadel's outdoor sections are perfectly comfortable in cool weather, and the 4:30pm sunset creates golden hour lighting ideal for photography of the sprawling city below.
Traditional Hammam and Wellness Experiences
December's cool temperatures make the warm, humid environment of traditional bathhouses especially appealing. Historic hammams in the Old City offer real feels, and the contrast between chilly outdoor air and steamy bath chambers is invigorating rather than overwhelming.
Syrian Cooking Classes and Food Market Tours
December brings winter ingredients like fresh pomegranates, oranges, and seasonal vegetables to Damascus markets. Cool weather makes spending time in covered kitchen spaces comfortable, and winter dishes like kibbeh and hearty stews are at their peak. Market visits are pleasant without summer heat and crowds.
Straight Street Archaeological Walks
The famous Biblical road mentioned in Acts is best explored in December's comfortable temperatures. Winter weather allows extended time examining Roman columns, Byzantine churches, and Ottoman-era buildings without heat fatigue. Fewer tourists mean better photography opportunities and peaceful exploration.
December Events & Festivals
Damascus Winter Citrus Festival
Local celebration of winter fruit harvest featuring traditional preparations of orange and pomegranate dishes in Old City restaurants. Small-scale neighborhood festivities with seasonal sweets and warm beverages sold by street vendors.
New Year Celebrations at Damascus Hotels
Major hotels in the modern city center host New Year's Eve events with traditional Syrian music and cuisine. More subdued than Western celebrations but offering insight into contemporary Syrian urban culture.