middle east travel route

Ultimate MIDDLE EAST Travel Guide

The  Middle East  is one of the most notorious regions to visit on the planet. It gets a bad rap due to sensationalized media but the reality is that much of the reason is  safe for travel . It’s a region that provides fascinating culture, history and food to experience. The goal of our Middle East travel guide is to show you exactly why.

Geographically, the Middle East is comprised of 3 distinct regions broken down into North Africa, Western Asia and the Arabian Peninsula. This area covers a total of 20 countries.

North Africa  includes the countries of Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya and Egypt.

Western Asia  includes the countries of Turkey, Kuwait, Iran, Iraq, Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, Israel and Palestine.

The  Arabian Peninsula  includes the countries of Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain and Yemen.

We’ve spent just over two months traveling in the countries of Morocco, Egypt and Jordan during our Middle East travels. We have seen the very best they have to offer and have a good pulse on what it’s like to actually travel there.

Destinations

Middle east travel: quick tips, don’t visit the middle east without:.

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MIDDLE EAST BUCKET LIST

PYRAMIDS & TOMBS IN EGYPT

Egypt  is a gem of the Middle East and for good reason! It is here that you can find massive pyramids and colorful tombs that stretch along the Nile. You can use the cities of  Alexandria ,  Cairo ,  Luxor  and  Aswan  to explore the wonders of Ancient Egypt. 

LOST CITY OF PETRA IN JORDAN

The  Lost City of Petra  is a highlight to any  Jordan itinerary , featuring massive structures carved right into the side of the cliffs. During the day, the sight is lively with bedouin traders offering shopping and banter. When the sun sets, head to  Petra by Night .

PAMUKKALE POOLS IN TURKEY

If your  Turkey itinerary  doesn’t include  Pamukkale , you’ll be missing out! This natural wonder forms some stunningly beautiful geothermal travertine pools affectionately referred to as the cotton candy pools. They are best viewed at sunrise and sunset.

MORE THINGS TO TRY IN THE MIDDLE EAST

There is no shortage of great things to do in the Middle East during your visit and the biggest problem you’ll face is fitting them all into your itinerary.

Each country has its own offering and unique things to check out during a visit, so be sure to look at our country guides once you decide where your itinerary will take you.

CAMEL SAFARI INTO THE SAHARA DESERT: (Morocco)  Getting up close and personal with the mighty Sahara Desert is a rite of passage adventure in the Middle East. Taking a  Merzouga Sahara desert tour  will find you on camels, trekking a few hours across massive sand dunes before arriving at a desert camp for a spectacular sunset followed by campfire stories and some intense star gazing.

VISIT THE BLUE CITY OF CHEFCHAOUEN: (Morocco)  One of the most beautiful cities you’ll find in the Middle East is the  blue city of Chefchaouen , located in the northern hills of Morocco. Here you’ll spend your time wandering bright blue colored streets while popping into shops, markets and mingling with the locals.

SHOP AT THE MARRAKECH SOUK: (Morocco)  If you seek a traditional Middle Eastern souk, then  Marrakech  certainly delivers. The medina harkens to the explorers of time gone by and you can shop the intimate alleys for spices and leatherwares or hang out in the central area. There you’ll find great people watching and even snake charmers.

TOUR KING TUT’S TOMB: (Egypt)  The most famous tomb in the world, that of King Tutankamun, can be toured when you visit the Valley of the Kings outside of Luxor, Egypt. Inside you’ll find the actual mummy of the boy king along with beautiful wall paintings depicting his life.

SEE ABU SIMBEL: (Egypt)  This is easily one of our favorite  places to visit in Egypt  as the ruins are large, ornate and very impressive. Overlooking the giant Lake Nassar, formed when the Aswan High Dam was constructed, these ruins were built for King Ramses II. The entire complex was once located further south, actually within the borders of Sudan, but the formation of the lake meant that it was moved to preserve the structure.

TAKE A NILE RIVER CRUISE: (Egypt)  Taking a  Nile River Cruise in Egypt  will get you up close with the lifeblood of Africa and Egypt. Typically sailing from Aswan to Luxor, or reverse, you’ll experience the mighty river, local life and have a chance to tour off some incredible temples. It’s a great way to see the best sites without having to move hotels every few nights too.

VISIT THE ROMAN CITY OF JERASH: (Jordan)  Located outside the capital city of  Amman , Jerash is a massive ruined Roman city complex that blew our minds when we visited. It features a large amphitheater and plenty of intact roads lined with columns. If you visit after a rain, you may even find roman coins on the ground!

GLAMP IN THE WADI RUM DESERT: (Jordan)  This is one of the most unique  things to do in Jordan  and was easily a highlight of our trip. The Jordanians stop at nothing to give you an authentic desert experience, complete with storytelling, activities and posh accommodation. One of the highlights was staying up all night to stargaze.

FLOAT IN THE DEAD SEA:  When you think about  swimming in the Dead Sea  it’s hard to imagine that you’ll actually float. Well, let us tell you, it happens and it’s a strange sensation! But of course, one that you cannot miss. It’s possible to access the Dead Sea from both Israel and Jordan, with both offering posh resort experiences.

DISCOVER THE CITY OF ISTANBUL: (Turkey)  The Turkish city of  Istanbul  is a melting pot of culture due to its location. It marries a little bit of Europe with a lot of the Middle East, making it one of the most fascinating  places to visit in Turkey . Be sure to give yourself enough time to truly appreciate the city.

SEE CAPPADOCIA FROM THE AIR: (Turkey)  Taking a  hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia  will show you an otherworldly landscape that you won’t soon forget. You’ll have an early start, but you’ll forget all about that when the sun rises over the land below you, illuminating it in an array of pinks and oranges. Of course, there are other cool  things to do in Cappadocia , but this one tops the list.

EXPLORE THE ANCIENT CITY OF EPHESUS: (Turkey)  The very first place I ever visited in the Middle East was the  Ancient City of Ephesus, Turkey  and it was then that I knew I wanted to see more of what the region has to offer. At this site, you will see one of the largest Roman theaters to ever be discovered, along with the towering front of the once grand Library of Celsus. While in ruins, the city offers a fascinating look into life in Roman times and offers up stone streets, intact shopping huts, mosaic floor tilings and plenty of statues. When you finish touring this site, be sure to check our nearby  Selcuk  too.

FOODIE BUCKET LIST

The Middle East is one of the best destinations for foodies. Each country has its own national dish, but there are many staples that you’ll find all over the region.

Kebabs  and skewered meat (or vegetables) are incredibly popular, while rice dishes similar to  Pilau  (or Biyrinais) are hearty and filling.

Chickpeas  are a staple and are often fried up into falafel, while hummus, pitta, and Kanafeh are ubiquitous across the Middle East.

MIDDLE EAST FESTIVALS

There are many festivals and events, both religious and cultural, to look out for when organizing your Middle East travel itinerary.

The biggest event in the region is  Eid , which marks the end of  Ramadan . It’s celebrated with huge feasts and festivities.

The  Prophet Mohammed’s birthday  is often observed, while many countries have parades to mark independence days or national holidays.

THINKING ABOUT VISITING JORDAN?

Popular regions in the middle east, arabian peninsula.

When you envision the Middle East, you probably imagine the dusty deserts and mega-cities of the Arabian Peninsula. This is the classic Middle East region, where you can revel in the glitz and glamour of the Gulf States, including  Dubai ,  Abu Dhabi ,  Bahrain , and  Qatar . But there’s more to the region than this. You can explore the ancient ruins and diverse history of  Jordan  (a visit to  Petra  is a must!) or visit the authentically Arabian climes of  Oman . Off the beaten track travelers can head to  Saudi Arabia , which is slowly becoming more welcoming to tourists. Or they could get really off the radar and join a tour to  Socotra , the only part of  Yemen  that’s been stable in recent years.

WESTERN ASIA

Western Asia is a roughly defined region, but it’s where the Asian continent merges with the European, in Turkey, the Caucasus, and along the Mediterranean coastline. Broadly speaking, Western Asia can include  Turkey , Iran, Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Israel,  Kuwait , and Palestine. This is one of the most fascinating regions in the world, but it’s not exactly an easy region to travel to the Middle East to explore. In Turkey, you can cross from Asia into Europe if you visit  Istanbul . Spend one day seeing ancient Roman ruins and the next sunning yourself at a beach resort. Iraq and Syria are mostly off-limits, except to the hardiest travelers (there are more and more group tours heading to these well off-the-beaten-track destinations). Iran is open to some nations and closed to others, but stay away from politics, and you’ll enjoy supreme hospitality in a country like no other in the Middle East. Lebanon, Israel, and Palestine often make the news for the wrong reasons, but there’s so much to see in this compact part of the Middle East. This is the Holy Land; in Lebanon, you can marvel at crusader castles devoid of tourists. In Israel, you can visit Jerusalem then head to the beaches of Tel Aviv. In Palestine, you can see first-hand one of the oldest parts of the world, a literally biblical place.

NORTH AFRICA

North Africa is culturally and religiously very similar to the Arabian Peninsula, but it can also be extremely different. North Africa roughly encompasses destinations such as  Egypt ,  Morocco  Tunisia, Libya, and Algeria. North African cities are busy, bustling, and have a lot more life and history than you’ll find in the Arabian metropolises. Cities like  Marrakech , Casablanca, Algiers, Tunis,  Cairo , and  Alexandria  are packed with ancient sites, but you can also become quickly overwhelmed in the markets and souks! Explore the Sahara Desert in Morocco, stay at a beach resort in Tunisia or  cruise down the Nile  to see the ancient sites of  Luxor  in Egypt. North Africa offers some of the best wonders in the Middle East.

MIDDLE EAST TRAVEL BUDGET

Setting a budget for travel to the Middle East is highly dependent on your travel style. It is possible to visit just about anywhere on any budget and still have a great trip. That said, you can make your trip as basic or as luxurious as you desire.

To help you set your budget, we’ve included some base range price estimations for travel within the Middle East. Of course, keep in mind that prices can fluctuate based on seasons, availability and festivals.

Travel costs vary massively from one country to the next. While Turkey is inexpensive, Gulf State nations such as Qatar and UAE are some of the most expensive destinations to travel to the Middle East and visit.

ACCOMMODATION: Hostels  (where they exist) and  guesthouses  are the cheapest options. They vary from USD 10 to USD 30 per night.  Private rooms  will start at USD 50 and go up to USD 100. In the Middle East,  luxury  accommodation really has no limits when it comes to price.

FOOD:  Food can be inexpensive across the Middle East, as long as you stick to the  local cafes, restaurants, and markets . Even in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, you can find great meals for as low as USD 5 per plate.  Mid-range restaurants  will be more in the region of USD 20 per person, while in the Gulf States, you can easily spend upwards of USD 100 on a meal if you desire!

TRANSPORT:  Transport can be cost-effective if you stick to local routes.  Local buses, trains, and boats  can cost just a few dollars for a ride. In Turkey, you can cross the entire country by train for just USD 20.  Flights  are good value, too; the Middle East is the hub for the world’s best airlines.

ACTIVITIES:  The cost of activities when you travel to the Middle East varies dramatically from one country to the next. In Turkey, you can go  diving  for USD 50 a tank, but in Oman, it might cost you USD 150. A  multi-day Nile cruise  costs around USD 200 per day, while entry to  Petra  costs 70 USD.

50-100 USD PER DAY

You will only get away with a budget of USD 50 or less in destinations like Egypt and Turkey. For Gulf states, you’ll need USD 100 per day. Stay in hostels, use public transport, and eat like a local to save on cash.

100-200 USD PER DAY

Depending on your destination. This will get you private rooms and restaurant meals, as well as plenty of day tours.  You’ll still use public transport. This budget will be more comfortable for the more expensive Gulf States.

400 USD + PER DAY

Luxury travelers will be able to live in supreme comfort in resorts in Turkey or North Africa, while a higher budget will be needed for true luxury in the Gulf States (where there is no limit to the luxury hotels you can stay at!).

WHERE TO STAY IN THE MIDDLE EAST

Below you will find some of the places we have stayed during our travels in the Middle East. These are individual properties that we enjoyed and would recommend to other travelers.

HOW TO GET AROUND IN THE MIDDLE EAST

There are a few ways to get around the Middle East during a visit, including cruises, buses, car rentals and flights. There are few railways outside of Egypt and Turkey. Plan ahead and be flexible.

CRUISES:  In some destinations, boat travel is an option, particularly along the River Nile, where a cruise is one of the best experiences you could enjoy when you travel to the Middle East! There are also cruises that ply the waters of the Mediterranean stopping at ports in both North Africa and Western Asia.

BUS & TAXI:  Most countries have efficient public transport systems that at least link major cities. Bus travel is the most common way to get around. Failing this, you’ll often find shared taxis operating routes, or tourist buses heading to popular attractions (Petra, in Jordan, for instance).

FLIGHTS:  The quickest way to travel between countries in the Middle East is to fly. The region is incredibly well connected by many different airlines, as many Middle Eastern cities serve as global hubs for air transport.

CAR RENTAL:  Often, car hire can be the best way to get around the Middle East if you’re short on time and want to see one specific region. Check out  Discover Rental Cars  for great deals.

TOP MIDDLE EAST TOURS

Highlights of morocco.

15 Days Casablanca to Marrakech Visits: Tangier, Chefchaouen, Fes, Merzouga, Ait Benhaddou & Essouira

EXPLORE JORDAN

8 Days from Amman Visits: Jerash, Dead Sea, Madaba, Petra & Wadi Rum

HIGHLIGHTS OF EGYPT

14 Days from Cairo Visits: Alexandria, Luxor, Aswan, Abu Simbel, Nile Cruise & Hurghada

WHEN TO VISIT THE MIDDLE EAST

Much of the Middle East is scorching throughout the year. If you’re not used to extreme heat, you’ll want to plan your Middle East travel itinerary to visit in winter.

The colder months of the year,  between October and March , are the best times to travel to the Middle East if you’re heading to the Arabian Peninsula or North Africa. Temperatures will still be hot, averaging around 20 degrees Celsius, but you’ll be able to get out and about and enjoy hiking and sightseeing throughout the day.

Summers  in the UAE, for instance, can often reach 50 degrees Celsius. On the plus side, flights and accommodation will be cheap!

For countries further north, such as Iran and Turkey, you’ll want to visit in  spring or fall . Winters in this part of the Middle East can be bitterly cold, especially at altitude. Summer in Turkey is a busy time to visit, while summer in Iran is scorching hot.

Before you plan your Middle East travel trip, consider important religious events, especially Ramadan, which can affect how and even where you might be able to travel.

For more specific information, check out:

• Best Time to Visit Jordan: Month by Month Breakdown

Best Time to Visit Egypt: Month by Month Breakdown

• Best Time to Visit Turkey: Month by Month Breakdown

PLAN YOUR MOROCCO ITINERARY!

Safety in the middle east.

The Middle East is often seen as a hospitable and welcoming palace to visit, despite all the bad press. Locals will go out of their way to make you feel at home and show their culture. Strict laws ensure petty crimes such as theft are few and far between.

Women often have a different experience to men, however, when they travel to the Middle East. It’s a very chauvinistic culture, and female travelers, unfortunately, can be victims of harassment or even assault.

The region does have significant political tensions. Border areas in hot zones such as Syria, Iraq, and Israel should be avoided. When you plan your Middle East travel itinerary, always keep one eye on the news, as things can flare up dramatically without warning.

Islam is the predominant religion of the region. The laws of many countries here can be very different from those in the west, and comparatively, the culture is incredibly conservative. What might be the cultural norm in your home country might be illegal in the Middle East.

Worthwhile reading if you’re planning to visit the Middle East:

• 25 Essential Safety Tips for Travel
• Is It Safe to Travel to Jordan?
• Is Egypt Safe to Visit?

MIDDLE EAST TRAVEL: BOOKING RESOURCES

Middle east travel guide: related articles.

Looking for more info? Check out all the articles we’ve written on travel to Middle East and start planning your dream trip.

Is It Safe to Travel to Jordan in 2024?

Is egypt safe to visit in 2024, 15 tasty jordanian food experiences you cannot miss during your visit, 7 days in jordan: the globus escape experience, ultimate jordan itinerary for 5 days, 7 days or 10 days, wadi rum in jordan: best camps & ultimate planning guide, choosing an egypt nile cruise: itineraries, essential tips & advice, 21 epic things to do in egypt, 15 best things to do in aqaba, jordan, 15 places to visit in jordan (that may surprise you), 15 interesting things to do in amman, jordan (for first timers), 27 special things to do in jordan, ultimate egypt itinerary for 7 days, 10 days or 2 weeks, 21 amazing things to do in cairo, egypt, 15 epic things to do in luxor, egypt, 15 unmissable things to do in alexandria, egypt, 15 things to do in aswan, egypt (on your first visit), 15 top things to do in hurghada, egypt, the jordan pass: is it worth it plus how to maximize your ticket, ultimate 10 day turkey itinerary (plus 7 day & 2 week options).

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The 10 Day Middle East Travel Guide

Why Go to Middle East

10 day itinerary for the middle east.

• The Sights of the Middle East
• An Overview of Countries to see in the Middle East
• Getting around the Middle East
• Where to after the Middle East
• Still not convinced on going to the Middle East?  Ask A Brother…
• Middle East Travel FAQ

The Middle East is a truly adventurous and exotic destination. Though every country in the region is Arabian at its core, each country expresses itself differently through layers of history, the cultures that have passed through each country, and what each is trying to become in this quickly changing world we live in.

• Day 1: Amman,Jordan – Taste and experience true Arabian Culture
• Day 2: Petra,Jordan – Hike through a 2000 year old city carved intored cliff faces by a former Arab kingdom
• Day 3: WadiRum, Jordan – See the deserts of Arabia and sleep in aBedouin Camp under the starsaDay 4: Amman,Jordan + depart

• Day 5: Beirut, Lebanon – Experience the Paris of the Middle East and the Roman ruins of Baalbek
• Day 6: Depart Beirut

• Day 7: Tel Aviv, Israel
• Day 8: Jerusalem, Israel and Bethlehem – See the sights where events have dictated much of the last 2000 years of history
• Day 9: Depart Tel Aviv

• Day 10: Cairo, Egypt – See the Pyramids of Giza and experience the sights and chaos o

Click each destination for a detailed itinerary and guide for how to make your 10 days in the Middle East an unforgettable adventure

Other Destinations to Consider in the Middle East, but only if youu have the time

• Dead Sea: Best seen via Israel
• Red Sea: Best seen via Aqaba, Jordan
• West Bank: Best seen by independent tour (for the bold traveler)
• Valley of the Kings & the Tombs (Egypt): Best seen on another trip

If you only have 10 days and don’t have time for the attractions above, don’t feel bad.

The Dead Sea is interesting, as a high salinity body water that makes you float and the lowest point – but – the trip itself is only worth an hour of your time, but will cost you a day of travel.  Petra, Wadi Rum, Jerusalem, and the West Bank are much more fulfilling experiences

The Red Sea is a cheap beach vacation spot with amazing diving, coral, and fish, – but – if you want the water life, save the experience for 10 Days in Bali (**Coming Soon**) and 10 Days in Southeast Asia (**Coming Soon**) where learning to surf, dive, and spearfish will chip away at your bucketlist.  Let the Middle East do what it does best: showcase exotic and hospitable culture, breathtaking ruins, and millennia of history.

The West Bank can be seen in a matter of hours as part of doing Jerusalem in a day.  I do recommend adding this stop if you’re up to it, checking off the separation wall, the Banksy hotel & museum, the outdoor graffiti museum, and the church of the nativity.

The Valley of the Kings in Egypt is undoubtedly an epic sight to see, but the Pyramids of Giza were the original tombs of the Egyptian pharaohs and are a breathtaking sight on their own.  Don’t let the “FOMO” (“fear of missing out”) trick you – if you’re limited on time, the days’ journey it wold take to reach the Valley of the Kings would be better spent exploring an additional Middle Eastern neighbor instead (Israel, Jordan, or Lebanon)

With the FOMO abated, rest assured that this 10 day itinerary of exploring the Middle East will give you an unmatched serving of history, culture, ruins, sights, and tastes that will leave you satisfied enough to spend your  next 2 weeks  living out your 10 days in a completely different region.

The Sights You’ll See

• Jerusalem’s Old Quarter
• Bethlehem in the West Bank/Palestine
• “The Paris of the Middle East” – Beirut
• ThePyramids of Giza
• The chaos of Cairo

An Overview of the Middle Eastern Countries to visit

Jordan , feels truly Arabian and true to its Islamic roots.  Surprisingly safe, convenient, and welcoming to westerners making it a great place to experience the feel of “Sham”, “Khaliji”, and Bedouin cultures of the Middle East.

Lebanon , and Beirut in particular, live up to the reputation as the “Paris of the Middle East” with a heavily European feel in everything from architecture to culture, but their food is still deliciously Middle Eastern.

Egypt , home of ancient civilizations and archeological sites boasts a surprisingly African swag laced into its swag heavy approach to life.  In everything from conversations with locals, to food, to wandering with markets, you can feel the blending of Middle Easter and African roots in the populace.

Israel and the West Bank , Middle Eastern, yes, Arabian, no.  I highly functional society that is just around a century old and wrapped in controversy.  So much of the politics and international affairs happen based on Israel and the West Bank that this is one place you need to experience for yourself to have a well formed view and opinion of the Middle East

For information on how to travel to and experience Jordan,Lebanon, Egypt, and Israel in a short period of time (~10 days) check out these guides destinations in the Middle East destinations

• 4 Days in Jordan
• 48 Hours in Israel
• 48 Hours in Lebanon
• 18 Hours in Cairo

If your two weeks a year vacation is a little far off, stay inspired to explore the Middle East with these Stories of Travel

• Exploring Petra, the Lost City of Jordan (**Coming Soon**)
• The Marsian Deserts of Wadi Rum and the Bedouin Experience(**Coming Soon **)
• Israel: Exploring a New Nation and Wandering in the West Bank (**Coming Soon**)
• 24 Hours in Beirut: The Paris of the Middle East (**Coming Soon **)
• 18 Hours in Cairo: Ancient Pyramids and Endearing Chaos (**Coming Soon **)

Where should you go after this part of the Middle East?

Add Turkey and Dubai to complete your “tasting the Middle east” experience…

This “10 Days in the Middle East” gives you a surprisingly filling and complex taste of the Middle East and its varied cultures, but it’s not complete.  By adding Dubai and Turkey you’ll get a full taste of the Middle East.

Turkey deserves its own 10 day experience .  Fromthe other worldly landscapes of Cappadocia, to the Roman ruins and wine ofEphesus, to amazing beaches in the south and intense political activity in thenorth, Turkey is a surprisingly rich travel destination that can fill as muchtime as you give it. 

Dubai can be experienced in a single layover.   Modern, intentional, and uninspiring for mostbut still a remarkable feat – having envisioned and created a futuristic oasison once sand dunes.  Experiencing Dubai(even briefly) will give you a taste of the futuristic direction that manywealthy Arab states are taking their societies, somehow maintaining a layer oftradition just above oil monarchies and a layer below a Las Vegas style”anything goes” tourist scene.

To experience Dubaion a layover (8 hours will do) hire a taxi to take you on a tour of the city tosee most of the major sites and you’ll have seen everything in Dubai worthseeing.

Seeing and Experiencing Turkey and Dubai add balanced views into the past and future of the Middle East and round off a “taster experience” of traveling through the Middle East.

Getting Around the Middle East

When traveling between countries in the Middle East, traveling by air is your only option.  Make use of Skyscanner , and Google Flights’ Explore Function to get the cheapest flight. 

Be sure to check different days of the week, particularly Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays, as some days are served by budget carriers (~$35 per flight) while others are served by full service carriers (~$200-$300 per flight).

The flight into Lebanon into Lebanon will likely be your most expensive and routing through Cyprus will save you some change.

Note: Keep in mind that any trace of travel to Israel can create travel issues for you in the future if you decide to travel.  The following countries will not let you in with an Israeli stamp, or evidence of visiting Israel, in your passport:

Countries that will not accept tourists with evidence of travel to Israel

• Saudi Arabia

So when traveling between countries, if you have any interest in visiting any of these countries, visit Israel by flying into Ben Gurion Airport (Tel Aviv) (which doesn’t stamp passports on entry) and not visiting any of the countries above directly after Israel.

Visas in the Middle East

• Jordan : 40 JD Visaon Arrival at the Queen Alia Airport (Amman) OR buy the 70JD Jordan Pass and have the visa fee waived
• Lebanon : Free visaon arrival for 30 days for most nationalities
• Israel: Free visaon arrival (after a short interrogation) for 30 days
• E gypt: $25 USD Visaon arrival for 30 days

Think this itinerary isn’t possible in 10 days or worth the time? Then email me.

This itinerary for “10 Days to Live the Middle East” is specifically designed with two goals for two groups of people

• For travelers with  only two weeks of vacation , craving something adventurous: For you, this itinerary gives the essential sights, and (with the the linked articles) all of the plans and logistics for a smooth trip that will make for worthwhile, memorable, fun, rejuvenating travel
• For longer term travelers not considering the Middle East – and to convince yo to add it.  The one of a kind sights and experiences, cultural education, and perception experience make it well worth the 10 days that you can  absolutely  spare.

If you are in either of these groups and considering the Middle East but not completely sold, or have any questions, drop a comment about anything below or email me at [email protected] .  I promise to answer as soon as I sneak away from whatever adventure I’m on.

10 Day Middle East Itinerary FAQ

• Is it safe to travel the Middle East
• How much does the Middle East cost
• How will I get around the Middle East

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Carlos is a nomad, slow traveler, and writer dedicated to helping others live abroad and travel better by using his 7+ years of experience living abroad and background as a management consultant and financial advisor to help other nomad and expats plot better paths for an international lifestyle. Click here to learn more about Carlos's story.

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Middle East

Ideal 1 month middle east itinerary.

 There’s no doubt that travelling the Middle East is a very different experience to adventuring in many other parts of the world.

But there’s also no doubt that this very different experience is actually what can give you the most enjoyment from travelling in the Middle East too.

For starters, the sort of people that travel in this part of the globe are definitely an interesting bunch, for this is not the sort of travel that just involves lying on a beach or partying.

Steeped in history, layered cultures and dramatically different landscapes, visiting the Middle East attracts a different sort of explorer crowd – ones who aren’t afraid to buck the trend, step out from the norm or discover for themselves what this fascinating part of the world is like in reality.

So if you’re up for a real adventure soon, check out my perfect 1 month Middle East itinerary – the ideal taster to travelling in this amazing part of the world…

Related Posts

• 21 Things to Know About Travelling Jordan
• Solo Female Travel in the Middle East – What to Expect!
• The Only Turkey Itinerary You’ll Need!

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4 Weeks, 3 Countries

It’s a big claim and you will be travelling fast and seeing a lot, but if you want to fit as much into a month as you can in the Middle East, then I do think it’s possible to squeeze 3 of the best destinations into this short timeframe.

And the countries I’d choose are Turkey, Lebanon and Jordan.

Not only do these 3 countries offer an amazing array of adventures and opportunities, they are also dazzling in their diversity and will give you a great, snapshot into this part of the world.

These 3 countries are also quite close together meaning you are able to fly quite cheaply between them – you can’t, of course, currently travel overland between them because of the Syrian crisis, among other difficult border factors, but flying is possible and easy.

As always, I use Skyscanner to get the best prices on my plane tickets and you’d be wise to do the same!

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Beginning with Turkey, I’d allow 10 days to 2 weeks to explore this huge country, which spans the bridge between Europe and Asia and is a great introduction to visiting the Middle East.

Stay: Moda Hostel, Kadikoy

Likely to be your first point of entry into Turkey if you’re flying here, or crossing by land from Europe, Istanbul is a much-fabled city whose idyllic Bosporus setting and an insane amount of cafes make it a very pleasant city indeed.

Staying in the truly authentic suburb of Kadikoy is a great backpacker choice, as trendy locals dart in and out of vintage shops and hipster delis.

Otherwise, more tourist-popular areas on the Western side of the city, such as Galata, Eminönü and Balat, offer an amazing array of historical sights and marvellous markets.

DISCOVER MORE: Top Things to Do in Istanbul for First Timers

Stay: Cave Hotel Saksagan, Goreme

After a few days in Istanbul, Middle East backpackers can’t miss the fabulous area of Cappadocia, located in Turkey’s Central Highlands.

Take the night bus here from Istanbul or hop on a budget flight and spend a few days hiking and gazing at the amazing landscape formations in this otherworldy destination.

Budget travellers are best to base themselves in Goreme and if you can stretch to it, a hot air balloon ride here is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that’s highly worth the splurge.

LEARN MORE: Unbelievable Things to Do in Cappadocia + Itinerary

Ephesus & Pamukkale

Stay: ANZ Guesthouse, Selçuk

After Cappadocia, no backpacking Middle East adventure would be complete without seeing the amazing Roman ruins at Ephesus or the dramatic calcite formation at Pamukkale.

Both can be visited from the cute town of Selçuk, near the Aegean Sea, which is ideal for budget travellers with its very cute guesthouses and totally local feel.

You can easily walk to Ephesus, perhaps the most significant and best preserved Roman city in Turkey, from Selçuk as it’s just 3km away.

Pamukkale however, requires a train and then bus ride via the city of Denizli, which makes staying the night here a great option, especially as you’ll get to enjoy a stellar sunset as a result.

READ MORE: The Complete Travel Guide to Selçuk

Mediterranean Coast

Stay: Reflections Camp, Kabak

Finish your time in Turkey at this country’s amazing Mediterranean coastline.

Choose from popular backpacker spots such as Kaş or Olympos, or channel your inner hippy and get away from it all at peaceful Kabak.

Accessing any of these beachside areas is best done from either the city of Fethiye or Antayla, which both have great transport connections, as well as beautiful Old Towns that are well worth a night of your itinerary.

DISCOVER MORE: Why Kabak is Turkey’s Most Guarded Travel Secret

After Turkey, fly to Lebanon, one of the smallest countries in the world and an absolute gem in your backpacking Middle East itinerary.

Honestly, everyone who goes to Lebanon is blown away by it. Exceeding, as it does, all expectations, with more than enough activities to fill at least a week of your adventure.

Stay: Hostel Beirut, Mar Mikhael

Base yourself in the capital Beirut during your time in Lebanon, which has many young, fun and vibrant suburbs to explore, including my favourite, the arty enclave of Gemmayze.

From hipster cafes to amazing galleries, atmospheric buildings and a gorgeous Mediterranean coastline, this truly is one of the most fun cities in the Middle East, if not the world.

DISCOVER MORE: 10 Best Free Things to Do in Beirut

The great thing about Lebanon being so small is that you can then day trip all across the country very easily from Beirut including to these top picks:

The Cedars & Qadisha Valley

Lebanon’s most popular winter resort – yes you can snow ski and sea swim in this country in one day – the beautifully preserved area of the Cedars in the north makes for an ideal day trip even in the warmer months with some excellent hiking trails when the snow has melted.

READ MORE: Discovering the Stunning Cedars of Lebanon

Jeita Grotto, Harissa & Byblos

The amazing cave of Jeita Grotto, and lookout from Harissa, are located just a short drive from Beirut.

Grab an Uber with some fellow hostel guests to share the cost as no public transport runs here.

If you set out early enough in the morning, then after these 2 sites, you’ll still have enough time to relax on the gorgeous coastline around Byblos, which is believed to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.

LEARN MORE: 10 Epic Things to Do in Lebanon

Baalbek & Bekaa Wineries

Over in the east of Lebanon, the amazing Roman ruins of Baalbek are some of the most spectacular in the world and with Lebanon’s growing viticulture industry based out this way too, in the Bekaa Valley, combining some wine tasting with your history fill here is what backpacking Middle East mixes are all about!

DISCOVER MORE: 23 Amazing Things to Do in the Middle East

Lebanon’s second city, Tripoli is a world away from Beirut and provides the perfect counter-balance and proof of just how diverse this small country is.

Heading to the Citadel, the souk and snapping the ancient streets of Tripoli makes for an amazing day trip and you can easily catch a public bus to and from Beirut which makes it a super cheap one too.

EXPLORE MORE: The Perfect 1 Week Lebanon Itinerary

And the final country to hit up on your 1 month backpacking Middle East itinerary is Jordan.

Again, flying here from Beirut is the only way to travel from Lebanon to Jordan given the land borders with Syria and Israel aren’t options right now.

Another small country, you can see a lot in Jordan in just 7 days, so if you’ve still got the energy, pull on your sightseeing hat and strap in for the ride!

Oh and don’t forget to buy the Jordan Pass before you arrive.

Including your visa fee, as well as entrance to Petra and a heap of other attractions, this is a great money-saving option to stop your Middle East travel costs getting out of hand!

Stay: Jordan Towers, Amman

From Lebanon, you’ll enter Jordan via the country’s international airport in the capital Amman.

This very relaxed and small city is then the perfect place to stay for a few days as you explore its amazing street food, historic sights, museums, mosques and souks.

You can also take a number of excellent day trips from Amman and those to the Dead Sea and the Roman ruins of Jerash are the ones I recommend most.

Luckily, Jordan Towers Hostel offers some excellent backpacker trips to both these destinations or there is a regular public bus service to Jerash too.

DISCOVER MORE: 13 Epic Things to Do in Amman

Stay: Petra Gate Hostel

After your stay in Amman, it’s time to head to Jordan’s piece de resistance and jewel in the crown of your backpacking Middle East experience – Petra.

This Red Rose City is truly spectacular and I’d highly suggest having at least a couple of days here to see as much as you can in this amazing, ancient and HUGE desert civilisation.

The nearby town of Wadi Musa is the best place to stay around Petra and is easily accessible from Amman via public bus.

From here you can also book your excursion to Wadi Rum at some great backpacker rates…

READ MORE: Top Tips for Visiting Petra for Less

The spectacular desert scenery of Jordan will bring a new element to your backpacking Middle East itinerary and makes Wadi Rum an absolute must-visit in Jordan.

Safari tours and Bedouin camps are the order of the day here, so grab your camera and prepare to be spellbound by the beauty and desolation of this incredible landscape as you sleep out under the brightest of starry skies.

LEARN MORE: 10 Things to Do in Jordan You Can’t Miss

FAQs about Middle East Travel

Travel Insurance for the Middle East

Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

5 Middle East Packing Essentials

#1 Middle East Lonely Planet – A great travel aide to this part of the world with tons of historical info, the Middle East Lonely Planet will help you get the best from your time here.

#2 Arabic Phrasebook – Most people in the Middle East who are connected with the tourism industry speak good English, but learning some Arabic never goes a miss, especially if you want to ensure you’re paying the best prices! The Lonely Planet Middle East Phrasebook & Dictionary is a super affordable example.

#3 Good Camera – The Middle East is one of those jam-packed destinations and travelling here with a good camera will help you preserve the memories. I highly recommend the mirrorless Sony A6000 . Light, compact and robust, it’s been perfect for my Middle East travel adventures.

#4 Sun Hat – The Middle East can be hot and dry, really like hot and really dry. When you’re walking around temples, ruins, mosques, churches and other sights, you’ll be exposed to the sun for long periods of time, so make sure you pack a sunhat for adequate protection is key. I love this one from Hello Sunshine .

#5 Amazon Audible – Travel in the Middle East can often involve a lot of planes, trains and automobiles, so having something to listen to while you enjoy the scenery is a must! I love Amazon Audible , which is the best audiobook service around.

Travel Money in the Middle East

When it comes to paying for things in the Middle East, you want to ensure you’re not being charged overseas transaction fees or getting poor exchange rates when using your card abroad, which is why I always take my Wise Card away with me wherever I travel.

The easy way to spend abroad with real exchange rates, no markups, no sneaky transaction fees and a range of currency accounts, you can use your Wise card just like a debit card here.. and it links easily with Google and Apple pay – sold!

Get yours here .

PIN IT TO PINTEREST!

Talk about jampacked, but there’s no doubt that this 1 month Middle East travel itinerary will have you falling in love with this amazing part of the world just as much as I did!

And tell me, have you visited the Middle East?

Which was your favourite country? And why?

Drop your answers into the comments below. I’d love to hear them…

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

4 thoughts on “ Ideal 1 Month Middle East Itinerary ”

Steph, thank you for sharing your middle east itinerary – we are currently planning a trip to Europe and have been tossing up whether to visit Turkey, but now I need to add Lebanon and Jordan to our list… I am not sure if we will get there on our upcoming trip but maybe the one after that!

Wonderful to hear Anne and yes, of course, I can highly recommend both. That list just keeps on growing, doesn’t it?!

Hello, I think your site might be having browser compatibility issues. When I look at your blog site in Ie, it looks fine but when opening in Internet Explorer, it has some overlapping. I just wanted to give you a quick heads up! Other then that, awesome blog!

Thanks, Brett, I’ll check it out. Best Steph 🙂

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Middle East Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth Middle East travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

The Middle East is probably one of the most misunderstood regions in the world, one that many see as dangerous or off-limits to travelers.

While a trip to the Middle East requires a bit more planning and consideration than many other destinations, it’s a place that everyone should visit at some point in their lives.

Rich in history, culture, and beautiful places, it’s no wonder the region is high on the bucket lists of so many travelers around the world.

If you’re a history buff, you definitely won’t want for things to do in the Middle East. The region is home to some of the top historic sites in the world such as the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt, Old City Jerusalem in Israel , and the Roman ruins at Jerash in Jordan .

As the birthplace of the three Abrahamic religions (Judaism, Christianity, and Islam), the Middle East is a great place to learn more about some of the world’s most practiced religious traditions.

From ancient sites like the Western Wall in Jerusalem to modern wonders like the Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi there is much to explore.

If you want to embark on a grand tour of the Middle East, you’ll want to plan for at least a 10-day itinerary in order to spend enough time in each country.

You also may need to plan some extra time to get from one destination to the other, as security and border crossings between countries can be complicated. It’s best to research your destinations thoroughly before booking anything in this region, as you don’t want to find yourself with the wrong visa or unprepared for any necessary expenses.

You’ll find some great tips below in the FAQ section of this guide and more specific information in our travel guides for Jordan, Israel, and Turkey .

Many travelers to the region also opt to sign up for an organized tour which can take some of the guesswork out of planning a Middle Eastern adventure and provide access to exclusive experiences.

Whatever way you choose to travel, you’re sure to have an incredible time in the Middle East.

Keep reading to dive into resources that will help you with planning a trip to the Middle East.

Note: This ultimate guide to Middle Eastern travel contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Middle East Map

Use this Middle East travel map to begin planning your trip to this incredible country!

Click here for an interactive Google Map version of the above graphic.

Middle East Travel Tips

Confidently travel solo in the Middle East with the help of the following guides:

11 Amazing Places For Solo Travel In The Middle East

Iran Travel Guide

Visiting Iran? The following posts will help you plan the perfect trip!

11 Important Tips For Traveling To Iran As A Woman Alone

Is Iran Safe? Here’s What You Need To Know!

Israel Travel Guide

These guides share travel tips and recommended highlights for planning the perfect Israel itinerary!

Best Places To Visit In Israel

The following guides share Israel highlights and experiences that you won’t want to miss!

Active Middle East: Amazing Desert Adventures In Israel

Ramon Crater Adventure: That Time I Hurled Myself Into Israel’s Largest Crater

Israel’s Best-Kept Secret: Eliat’s Treehouse Spa

Awesomely Offbeat Things To Do In Tel Aviv, Israel

Israel’s Dead Sea Like You’ve Never Seen It Before

Travel Tips For Israel

Plan the perfect trip with these Israel travel tips !

10 Reasons Why Israel Should Be Your Next Trip

Solo Female Travel In Israel: The Ultimate Guide

10 Best Hikes In Israel You Shouldn’t Miss (Epic!)

Jordan Travel Guide

These guides share travel tips and recommended highlights for planning the perfect Jordan itinerary!

Jordan Tourism Highlights

The following guides share Jordan highlights & travel experiences that you won’t want to miss!

Having Lunch With A Local Family In Jordan

Unexpected Highlights From My Journey Through Jordan

Adventures In The Middle East: Top Hikes In Jordan

Not Another Historical Petra Article: Hiking In Petra

Smoking Shisha In Jordan

How To See A Spectacular Desert Sunset In Jordan

Jordan Travel Advice

Plan the perfect trip with these Jordan travel tips !

6 Essential Jordan Travel Tips

5 Amazing Experiential Stays In Jordan

Guide For Experiencing Bedouin Culture In Jordan

Getting To Know The Many Personalities Of Jordan (Unique Jordan Travel Experiences Included!)

Solo Travel In Jordan: The Ultimate Guide (With Map!)

Morocco Travel Guide

Plan an unforgettable trip to Morocco with the help of the following travel guide

Solo Female Travel In Morocco: The Ultimate Guide (With Map!)

Turkey Travel Guide

These guides share travel tips and recommended highlights for planning the perfect Turkey itinerary!

Solo Travel In Turkey

Plan a safe and fun solo trip to Turkey with the following guides:

Solo Travel In Istanbul: The Ultimate Guide (With Map!)

Turkey Travel Itinerary

Explore Turkey through these recommended experiences!

Cruising The Mediterranean: Turkey & Greece

Okey & Turkish Tea In A “Men Only” Hangout In Istanbul

Antalya: Luxury, History & Culture On The Turkish Riviera

Turkish Cuisine

Explore local culture through Turkish food & recipes!

Tracing The Heritage Of Delicious Turkish Dolma [Recipe Included]

United Arab Emirates Travel Tips

The following guides will help you plan the perfect trip to the UAE!

Solo Trip To Dubai: The Ultimate Guide

Best Middle East Tours

Explore local culture with a Middle Eastern tour guide through these unique excursions:

• Private Tour Madaba, Mount Nebo, and Dead Sea Day Trip with Amman Sightseeing from Amman (Jordan)
• Half-Day Desert Tours | Wadi Rum Desert (Jordan)
• Jet Ski Tour of Dubai: Burj Al Arab, Dubai Marina, Atlantis, Palm & Burj Khalifa (United Arab Emirates)
• Sunrise Desert Safari Tour from Abu Dhabi (United Arab Emirates)
• Guided Tour To The Giza Pyramids & Sphinx With Lunch & One Hour Quadbike from Cairo (Egypt)
• Masada and the Dead Sea Day Trip from Tel Aviv (Israel)
• Cappadocia Sunrise Hot Air Balloon with Flight from Istanbul (Turkey)
• Wadi Shab Coastal Trekking from Muscat (Oman)
• Nature Flora and Fauna Trip from Manama (Bahrain)

Click here for a full list of Middle East travel tours!

Renting A Car In The Middle East

Need a rental car for your Middle East trip?

Use Discover Cars to quickly compare your car rental options.

Middle East Hotels

Click here to browse the best Middle East travel hotels!

Prefer self-contained stays?

Click here to check out unique local rentals!

You can also use this map to search for local stays. I have the map set to Amman, Jordan, but you can easily change it to your destination of choice:

Middle East Travel Insurance

It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or with a group on a Middle East tour. When visiting the Middle East — or any other country or continent in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your Middle East travel itinerary.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Middle East Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling in the Middle East .

Q: What are 15 attractions in the Middle East that shouldn’t be missed?

Though every traveler will have their own priorities and must-do list when visiting the Middle East, be sure not to miss these top attractions:

• Petra – Jordan
• Wadi Rum – Jordan
• Burj Khalifa – Dubai, UAE
• Giza Necropolis (or the Pyramids of Giza) – Giza, Egypt
• Goreme National Park – Cappadocia, Turkey
• Temple Mount and Dome of the Rock – Jerusalem, Israel
• The Dead Sea – Israel & Jordan
• Luxor – Egypt
• Hagia Sophia – Istanbul, Turkey
• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque – Abu Dhabi, UAE
• Beirut, Lebanon
• Nile River – Egypt
• Ephesus, Turkey
• Bethlehem, Palestine
• Burj Al-Arab – Dubai, UAE

Q: What are the best Middle Eastern countries to visit?

While every Middle Eastern country is home to its set of attractions and incredible sites, some countries are more traveler-friendly than others. Safety and infrastructure are things to keep in mind when traveling to any new destination and when planning a trip to the Middle East in particular.

The United Arab Emirates has quickly become a top destination for travelers around the world for its luxurious accommodations, incredible cities, and unique experiences.

Jordan is home to some of the most quintessential Middle Eastern experiences like Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea and is a favorite among travelers for its excellent hospitality and safety.

Israel blends old and new with a mix of modern, cosmopolitan cities and ancient sites that tell the stories of the three Abrahamic religions.

Egypt is high on the bucket list of many travelers for a reason. How could you miss the Pyramids of Giza, one of the last remaining Wonders of the World?

And for truly incredible sites that range from ancient mosques to grand bazaars, head to Turkey, one of the most popular destinations in the world.

By the way, all of the above-mentioned destinations are some of the top places for solo female travel in the Middle East .

Q: What do I need to know before going to the Middle East?

You need to be particularly strategic when planning a trip to the Middle East. Though the countries in this region are fairly close to each other, traveling from one to the other isn’t quite as easy as it is in Europe and other parts of the world.

This is particularly true when traveling to certain Middle Eastern countries from Israel. In the past, certain countries have denied travelers entry at the border if they had Israeli stamps in their passports.

Israel has stopped stamping passports at airports in recent years and instead gives visitors a small entry card that essentially acts as a free tourist visa. You’ll need to hang onto this during your stay in Israel but it will save you some trouble when traveling to other Middle Eastern countries after your trip.

If you’re crossing into Egypt or Jordan from Israel by land, you may receive a stamp in your passport; if you’re concerned about the stamp, you can ask the agent at the border not to stamp your passport. If you do have an Israeli stamp in your passport, you should avoid traveling to Syria, Sudan, Iran, Yemen, Libya, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia. You will be allowed to enter Turkey, Morocco, and the UAE but you may run into some trouble in the unlikely event that you are stopped by police.

If you’ve traveled to other Middle Eastern countries prior to your trip to Israel, expect a fair amount of questions at the border. Be aware that you cannot cross into Syria or Lebanon by land from Israel. And also note that several countries, including the UAE, Lebanon, and Morrocco have banned direct flights to Israel.

Be aware that many countries in the Middle East may have different cultural norms and etiquette expectations than your home country.

In this predominantly Muslim region, it’s best to dress conservatively, regardless of gender. A good rule of thumb is to keep your arms and legs covered unless you’re going swimming. Women should also keep a scarf or shawl handy in case they need to cover their heads at a religious site.

Along those lines, it’s important to be respectful of local religions and religious practices. Be aware of Muslim and Jewish holidays, as local business hours and operations may change.

For example, if you’re traveling to a majority Muslim country during Ramadan, you’ll want to avoid eating and drinking in front of others during the day and seek out restaurants with private dining areas for tourists.

And if you’re visiting a religious site like a Mosque, be respectful of the fact that you are in a house of worship. Keep your voice down and do your best to maintain the sacred environment.

As with any destination, it’s important to be aware of local laws when traveling in the Middle East. Alcohol is prohibited in several countries in the region including Saudi Arabia and Yemen. Other countries like Qatar and Iran make exceptions for non-Muslims, so just be sure to do your research before you go.

Public displays of affection can also be illegal in certain Middle Eastern countries. While this varies from country to country, it’s best to keep PDA to a minimum when visiting the region, even if it’s just holding hands.

Q: Is the Middle East safe for tourists?

Your level of safety will vary from country to country in the Middle East. Countries like Jordan, Oman, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Kuwait are considered some of the safest countries to visit in the region as they have a high level of security and are generally not involved in major conflicts.

Israel and Egypt do face a fair amount of unrest but the major tourist areas — such as Jerusalem in Israel and Giza in Egypt — are generally pretty secure. Turkey is also generally considered safe for travelers as long as they avoid the borders with Syria and Iran.

Unfortunately, due to ongoing conflicts, most governments have advised their citizens not to visit Syria, Libya, and Yemen. Since situations can change quickly in this region, it’s best to check your local government’s travel advisories before planning your trip.

Q: Is the Middle East cheap or expensive?

Travel costs vary from country to country in the Middle East.

If you’re traveling to the United Arab Emirates, you can expect to spend about $200 USD per day whereas you’ll probably spend about half of that in Israel.

Your money will also go pretty far in Turkey where prices have dropped on accommodations, food, and other travel expenses in recent years.

Prices can also vary greatly within one country depending on where you are so it’s best to do your research on each individual destination so you can budget appropriately.

Q: What amount should I have in mind when it comes to Dubai vacation costs?

Dubai can be pricey but there are definitely ways to save on your vacation. The average traveler spends about $200 USD per day in the city on food, transportation, accommodation, attractions, and other travel expenses.

You can find a lot of great deals in the city on Groupon and through The Entertainer , a local magazine full of discounts.

The metro is also an easy and cheap way to get around town. If you have a lot of hotel points stashed away, you’ll find that they go far in Dubai.

Q: Where can I take a Middle East road trip?

A road trip is a great way to see the Middle East and there are some truly beautiful drives throughout the region. One popular route in Jordan is Amman to Wadi Rum, where you’ll get to see the country’s gorgeous sandstone mountains from the comfort of your car.

The drive from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia to Damman, Oman is a great showcase for the natural wonders of the region and you’ll definitely want to stop at some of the coastal towns and nature reserves along the way.

If you really want to feel like you’re a world away, drive from Dubai to Liwa in the United Arab Emirates. This route cuts straight through the desert where there’s nothing but sand and sky. You’ll end up in an amazing oasis city where you can have a truly luxurious desert experience.

Q: Do I need a Middle East travel visa?

Visa rules differ by country, so you’ll need to check your country’s International Travel Information page for your destination for the most up-to-date information on entry and exit requirements.

You can also contact the embassy of your destination.

Q: What countries are in the Middle East?

The full list of Middle Eastern countries include:

• Saudi Arabia
• the Syrian Arab Republic
• the United Arab Emirates

Q: What are some major Middle East airlines?

A few major Middle Eastern airlines include Middle East Airlines, Fly Dubai, Gulf Air, Royal Jordanian Airlines, Emirates, and Etihad Airways.

Q: Are credit cards accepted in the Middle East?

The answer to this question varies drastically depending on the country you’re visiting as well as what part of the country and the size of the establishment. In general, larger establishments in more touristy areas will accept credit cards — particularly Visa and Mastercard. It is also wise to carry cash.

Q: Can you drink the tap water in the Middle East?

While the tap water is safe to drink in certain Middle Eastern cities, it’s certainly not the case overall. Check the water quality in your specific destination to be sure.

What would you add to this Middle East travel guide?

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How Long to Spend in the Middle East 2024: Itinerary Guide

With so much to explore in the Middle East, how can you figure out the best destinations for your trip? And how long should you spend in your chosen destinations?

This article provides guidance on the ideal duration for each stop and we have also shared handcrafted itineraries ranging from a short week trip to a more-extended month-long adventure. We aim to help you create a well-balanced and enjoyable Middle East journey that suits your preferences and interests.

Content Preview

• 1. How Long to Spend in the Middle East
• 2. How Long to Spend in Each Country
• 3. Balancing Your Middle East Itinerary
• 4. Popular Itineraries for 2 Weeks
• 5. Itineraries for 3+ Weeks
• 6. Itineraries for 7–10 Days

How Long to Spend in the Middle East

If you are looking for a multi-country trip to the Middle East, 2 weeks is a popular duration, especially for a family or couple's vacation. Visiting two countries is advisable for a leisurely pace over 2 weeks, such as Egypt–Morocco or Egypt–Jordan.

Exploring three neighboring countries is possible in 2 weeks, as seen in the Egypt–Jordan–Israel combo. However, for a more in-depth exploration, we recommend spending 3 weeks on a three-country trip. For a fulfilling trip that takes in most of the main attractions in the Middle East, prepare for over 3 weeks. If your time is limited, Jordan and Israel are a good choice for about 10 days of traveling.

If you'd like to experience a single country only, you could spend about 1 week on the top highlights or 2 weeks to explore off the beaten path.

You can get inspiration from our handpicked itineraries for various durations .

How Long to Spend in Each Middle Eastern Country

When it comes to planning unforgettable journeys in the Middle East, Egypt, Turkey, Israel, Jordan, and Morocco stand out as top destinations.

With rich experiences, Egypt is worth spending 1 to 2 weeks in. Ideally, you would take in the best of Egypt in 9 to 12 days, including the Giza pyramid complex, a Nile River cruise, and some beach time. For a comprehensive tour, you could add the White Desert and the Sinai Peninsula.

Turkey , which beckons travelers with its unique blend of East and West, needs 9 days to 2 weeks. Spending about 10 days there, you can trace its golden route: Istanbul, Izmir, and Cappadocia. For longer trips, go for its fantastic beach destinations, such as Antalya, or discover its unique landscape in Pamukkale.

Morocco is suggested for a stay of 8–14 days, offering an immersive North African journey. The colorful imperial cities of Casablanca, Fes, and Marrakech, form the basis of a classic Morocco tour. Erg Chebbi and Erg Chigaga are the best places to take a Sahara Desert adventure.

Israel is a small country with profound religious and historical significance. You could just focus on a 4-day Jerusalem trip or fully explore it in 7–10 days , including Jerusalem, Bethlehem, and the Sea of Galilee.

Like Israel, a classic Jordan adventure would take just 7–9 days , including Petra, the therapeutic waters of the Dead Sea, and Wadi Rum.

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

Balancing Your Middle East Itinerary

When selecting your destinations, you're advised to balance cultural immersion, adventure, and relaxation. Among the 15+ Middle Eastern countries, if you're looking into the ancient civilizations, Egypt, Israel, and Turkey are not to be missed.

If you want the best desert adventure, Morocco's Sahara Desert never disappoints . If you would like something off the beaten path, Jordan is a nice choice.

To add some beach fun, Egypt is an affordable destination but also a snorkeling paradise, while Turkey is perfect for luxury beach vacations with the picturesque Mediterranean and Aegean Sea coastlines.

Adding some breaks into your travel plans would allow you to unwind and recharge, perhaps at a tranquil beach resort with a traditional hammam spa. Traveling on a private tour with some free days may strike a perfect balance between guided exploration and independent discovery.

For Middle East trips, a popular combo is Egypt, Jordan, and Israel. We've customized an 18-day Egypt, Jordan, and Israel tour for your reference. For any other interests, simply contact us to customize your itinerary based on your preferences.

Popular Middle East Itineraries: 2 Weeks

With 2 weeks, most travelers prefer to visit two countries for diverse experiences. For example, the popular combos are Egypt and Jordan or Egypt and Morocco. If you prefer, take a quick trip to three bordering countries: Egypt, Jordan, and Israel.

Take a look at the following itineraries for inspiration.

Itinerary 1: 14 Days in Egypt and Jordan

This 2-week trip is ideal for discovering the highlights of both countries: the magnificent pyramids, the stunning Nile, the grand sandstone city of Petra, and the magical Dead Sea.

You're recommended to spend 1 week in Egypt and 1 week in Jordan:

• Days 1–7 in Egypt (sunset camel rides around the pyramids, afternoon felucca sailing trips on the Nile, discovering the pharaohs' tombs, and a hot-air balloon ride)
• Days 8–14 in Jordan (floating effortlessly on the Dead Sea, the sandstone city of Petra, and a desert safari in Wadi Rum)

Itinerary 2: 2-Week Morocco and Egypt Highlights Tour

Traveling with an energetic-to-relaxing tour sequence, this itinerary presents the Nile, the pyramids, and Africa from both edges of the Sahara Desert in one trip.

• Days 1–8 in Morocco (a walking tour of Fes, camping under the starry sky in the Sahara Desert, and a hot-air balloon ride over Marrakech)
• Days 9–14 in Egypt (foodie adventures, Tanoura dance shows or belly dancing shows, and a 4-day Nile River cruise)

In-Depth Middle East Itineraries: 3+ Weeks

Having 3 weeks or more, you would have a wider range of options, whether you're seeking a leisurely, in-depth exploration or planning to take a grand Middle East tour. The popular combos are Egypt–Jordan–Israel in 3 weeks and Turkey–Israel–Jordan–Egypt in 4 weeks.

Itinerary 1: Egypt, Jordan, and Israel in 3 Weeks

This 3-week itinerary allows first-time travelers to explore the epitome of the Middle East, particularly those who want a slow-paced romantic getaway. You're advised to spend 9 days in Egypt, 8 days in Jordan, and 4 days in Israel.

In Egypt, apart from the must-see attractions, in 9 days, you could have more in-depth experiences, such as exploring multiple generations of pyramids rather than just those located in Giza , extending your trip to the Mediterranean coastal city of Alexandria, and embarking on a 5-day Nile cruise that includes a visit to Abu Simbel.

An 8-day Jordan trip would cover all of the highlights of Amman, Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea. To save time and costs, you're recommended to cross the border to Israel near the Dead Sea.

You would focus on Jerusalem in Israel, which is the heart of its history and religion. Don't miss the Western Wall in the Jewish Quarter and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in the Christian Quarter.

You could check out the details of our 3-Week Egypt, Jordan, and Israel Tour for inspiration. If you want a shorter version, see our 15-Day Best of Israel, Jordan, and Egypt Tour .

Itinerary 2: A 24-Day Biblical Pilgrimage Itinerary to Turkey, Israel, Jordan, and Egypt

This itinerary is tailor-made for a pilgrimage trip to the Middle East. You would journey through the spiritual essence of the Middle East: 8 days in Turkey, 4 days in Israel, 2 days in Jordan, and 10 days in Egypt.

With this Bible-based trip, you'd delve into Ephesus in Turkey, trace Jesus' footsteps in holy Jerusalem and Galilee in Israel, discover the Jordan River baptismal site, visit one of the oldest Christian places of worship — Saint George's Church — and Mount Nebo in Jordan, and then explore Coptic Cairo (the Christian area) and Mount Sinai in Egypt.

If you're not looking for a pilgrimage trip, we could personalize a 4-week itinerary as a grand Middle East tour to fit your interests, creating exclusive activities for you.

Time-Smart Middle East Itineraries: 7–10 Days

For a shorter trip of about a week to 10 days, you're advised to visit two small countries, such as Jordan and Israel. Check out our carefully-selected 7-day Jordan and Israel itineraries >>>

But more often, we highly recommend that you visit the best attractions of a single country for a more relaxing tour pace. You can find out more when you check out our itineraries for 10 days in Egypt , 7 days in Jordan , and 7 days in Israel ...

Taking a Hassle-Free Middle East Trip With Us

You are warmly welcomed to have us customize your own trip based on your group size, interests, and other needs. Sit back and use our Create My Trip service.

In addition to the above itineraries, we also have other itineraries you may be interested in:

• 2-Week Egypt and Jordan Family Adventure Tour
• 15-Day Best of Israel Jordan and Egypt Family Tour
• 18-Day Egypt Jordan and Israel's Treasures Discovery Tour
• More Middle East Tours

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Middle East Travel Guide

The Middle East is roughly Western Asia plus Egypt. From hyper modern luxury in the United Arab Emirates to laid back atmosphere in Iran. With a desert, the Empty Quarter, so empty even no real borders exist between countries. Ancient cultures dating back to early human civilizations as Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Islamic and others give a lot of history to explore too. A region which offers something for any traveler.

On the different country destination pages I share my travel experiences:

Egypt Israel Jordan Lebanon Oman Yemen all other Middle East countries

YEMEN – Mainland Yemen itinerary with all the best places to visit in Hadramout

In this ultimate guide to visit Yemen mainland (Hadramout Governate) I put together a Yemen itinerary and show you all the places of interest and more. I decided to go after I visited Djibouti earlier the same year and I had the best Yemini food [read more]

ISRAEL – Caesarea day trip from Tel Aviv: Must see Roman ruins

Israel has plenty of (Roman) archeological sites and Caesarea is for sure amongst one of the highlights. It has a beautiful hippodrome, theater, wall, and other remains. Most are Roman but some are from the Crusaders era. The Roman aqueduct is located on the beach [read more]

EGYPT- Top 7 day trips in and from Cairo; a 9 day Egypt itinerary

Egypt is a country with thousands of years of history and most famous for its Pharaohs and pyramids at Giza. It’s part of the Middle East but lies on the African continent. It’s one of those countries I wanted to visit for a long time [read more]

OMAN – A 10 day road trip Oman itinerary from Salalah to Muscat in a 4×4

Oman is an ideal country that’s suitable for a road trip. I did this road trip during a December holiday with my wife and kids. We planned various activities from culture, nature and some leisure. In this Oman itinerary I take you day by day [read more]

JORDAN – A Jordan itinerary for a two week road trip; covering the whole country

Jordan is a beautiful country for a road trip as driving is easy, safe and distances not long. A road trip is exactly what I did during the Christmas holidays a year ago. I have written about the regions in Jordan I visited during this [read more]

LEBANON – The most complete Lebanon itinerary: All highlights in 10 days (or 2 weeks)

Lebanon is a small hidden gem in the Middle East and a beautiful destination for a 10-day trip. It’s just a 3-4-hour flight from Europe and thus a perfect destination for the May (or October) school holidays! I visited with my family (kids 13/16 years) [read more]

LEBANON – Le Gray Beirut review: A true luxury hotel in downtown Beirut

Lebanon is a small country and most places can be reached as a day trip from Beirut, also called the Paris of the East. When I plan a trip, like my Lebanon itinerary, I always check the Leading Hotels of the World website if they [read more]

LEBANON – Le Bristol Beirut: A unique luxury hotel in downtown Beirut (hotel review)

Beirut is also called ‘the Paris of the Middle East’ which is something you’ll only understand if you have visited. When I was planning my Lebanon itinerary, I looked for a hotel where I could sample this Parisian atmosphere with a twist. Le Bristol Beirut [read more]

ISRAEL – Akko day trip from Tel Aviv or Haifa; what to do and see

An old Akko day trip (or Acre / Acco) from Tel Aviv or Haifa is a day tour to be included on any Israel itinerary. If you follow the below Akko itinerary, you’ll be able to see all the highlights in a day. As a [read more]

ISRAEL – Jerusalem, Tel Aviv & Haifa: My favorite restaurant hotspots for lunch & dinner

Recently I did a 10-day Israel road trip with my daughter. Although she’s just 11 she likes fine dining as I do. Of course, a burger and a pizza were on the menu too but also a 10-course menu she can enjoy. I already covered [read more]

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Middle East Travel Guide

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Explore Middle East

What to expect when traveling to the middle eastern countries.

There is a lot of mystery covering Arab countries. Often perceived as a closed world with many rules and restrictions, the Middle East becomes accessible and welcoming for foreign visitors. Traveling to many Middle Eastern countries nowadays is much easier than it used to be.

Here I am sharing my travel experiences in some of the most welcoming lands on Earth. United Arab Emirates which I call my home for the past 8 years will surprise you with countless astonishing outdoor sights. Many places in UAE are reachable less than a couple of hours drive from the famous tourist destination- the city of Dubai.

Meanwhile, Oman , a neighboring country of the UAE, is a hidden gem of the Arabian Peninsula. Its fantastic mountains and extremely welcoming local people make traveling around Oman one of the most pleasant experiences.

The Land of Frankincense

Where the desert meets the mountains

Explore the Middle East

Read the blog posts below to discover the best of the middle east.

Ultimate 7 Day Dubai Itinerary: A Week in UAE (2024)

Unique Instagrammable Places in Dubai: 35+ best photo spots in Dubai

Things to Do in Muscat, Oman: Epic 1-3 Days Muscat Itinerary

Dubai to Salalah Road Trip Planner: Everything You Need to Know

Salalah Itinerary: A Practical Travel Guide to Dhofar Region in Oman (+map)

Dubai to Musandam Road Trip: Best Things to Do in Musandam

Middle East

The Middle East is a grand epic, a cradle of civilisations and a beautiful, complicated land that's home to some of the planet's most hospitable people.

Best Things to Do

Best neighborhoods, attractions, must-see attractions.

Burj Al Arab

The Burj Al Arab's graceful silhouette – meant to evoke the sail of a dhow (a traditional wooden cargo vessel) – is to Dubai what the Eiffel Tower is to…

Burj Khalifa

Downtown Dubai

The Burj Khalifa is a stunning feat of architecture and engineering, with two observation decks on the 124th and 148th floors and a restaurant-bar on the…

Madinat Jumeirah

One of Dubai’s most attractive developments, Madinat Jumeirah is a contemporary interpretation of a traditional Arab village, complete with a souq (market…

This long, pristine stretch of white sand, a little way north of Jumeirah Public Beach, is a major draw for sporty types, with a range of activities on…

Church of the Holy Sepulchre

Four magnificent arches, their lintels richly decorated with Crusader crosses, herald the entrance to one of Christianity's most sacred sites. The church…

Temple Mount/Al Haram Ash Sharif

There are few patches of ground as holy – or as disputed – as this one. Known to Muslims as Al Haram Ash Sharif (The Noble Sanctuary) and to Jews as Har…

The spectacular sandstone city of Petra was built in the 3rd century BC by the Nabataeans, who carved palaces, temples, tombs, storerooms and stables from…

Western Wall

The air is electric at Judaism's holiest prayer site, where worshippers recite scriptures, lay their hands on 2000-year-old stone and utter impassioned…

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36 Best places to visit in the Middle East in 2024

By Joan Torres 90 Comments Last updated on September 26, 2024

Wanna travel to the Middle East with Against the Compass?

Yemen, Syria, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Kurdistan and more. We have group expeditions scheduled every month to the most exciting destinations in the Middle East.

The Middle East…

That enormous piece of territory often overlooked as a whole and, usually, only seen as the land of the greatest and most beautiful deserts, endless bazaars of spices and the warm welcome of the Bedouins.

Moreover, most of the time, the international media only likes to share images of disasters and bad things happening in the Middle East.

This distortion of reality changes people’s perception to the extent that the whole region of the Middle East becomes a dangerous place to travel to as if it was one single country.

But, you know what? The Middle East is composed of 14 different countries that differ massively from each other, have boundaries and share borders.

Which countries are part of the Middle East?

In my opinion, these are the countries that comprise the Middle East:

Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, United Arab Emirates and Yemen

Officially, the Middle East also includes Turkey and Cyprus, but this is my blog, and I decided not to include them and, instead, I decided to include Libya in this list.

After many years of living and traveling around the region, based on my own experience and opinion, I have compiled a list of the 36 best places to travel in the Middle East.

These choices are based on their level of security, historical importance, and natural beauty. 

My objective is to show you not only that the Middle East is a safe place to travel to, but I also want you to see the huge natural and cultural contrast between countries and the relevant role they have in our history.

36 Best places to travel in the Middle East

Remember to get travel insurance for the Middle East IATI Insurance is one of the very few that covers travel in ALL Middle Eastern countries Get 5% discount if purchasing via this link

Please note that this list is just a personal opinion and might not match yours.

Further suggestions are more than welcome!

1 – Amadiya – Home to the Three Wise Men

Country –  Iraq (Iraqi Kurdistan)

Located in the north of Iraqi Kurdistan, only 10km away from the Turkish border, Amadiya is a lovely, very photogenic village located on the flat top of a mountain, which has no less than 5,000 years of history.

From the Assyrians to the Persians, as well as several Jewish and Christian communities, dozens of different civilizations and religions have left their footprint in this historical place.

Furthermore,  Amadiya is believed to be the home of the Three Wise Man, who made a pilgrimage to Bethlehem to see Jesus Christ after his birth.

Today, Amadiya is a Muslim Kurdish village, surrounded by the most striking mountain scenery, characteristic from northern Iraq and one the most beautiful places to travel in the Middle East.

You may like: How to visit Mosul

2 – Shibam, the Manhattan of the desert

Country – Yemen

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1982, Shibam is a 7000-inhabitant town, located in the middle of nowhere, composed of 9-story mud-brick buildings, which is why it’s often referred to as the ‘Manhattan of the desert’, even though I don’t really like these comparisons.

Unlike other sites of great interest in Yemen, Shibam is located in a region named Hadramut, a relatively safe in Yemen with direct flights from Cairo in Egypt.

Read my Yemen travel guide for more information.

3 – Esfahan – Jaw-dropping Islamic architecture

Country – Iran

Esfahan is Iran’s most amazing city and its mosques, composed of giant domes and mind-blowing ceilings with extravagant geometrical forms, are the most impressive buildings in the Middle East, without any doubt.

Being one of the most historical cities in the region, Esfahan has always been home to a large community of scholars and prestigious intellectuals and its importance and influence in this part of the world was often compared to Athens and Rome.

Today, as per Iranian standards, Esfahan is a surprisingly modern, clean and vibrant city where some of the most educated and brilliant people in the country live.

Read more: A 1-to 4-week itinerary in Iran

4 – The Old City of Damascus

Country – Syria

Everything here is very old.

This is the first thing the hotel receptionist told me on the day I arrived in the city.

Damascus is indeed one of the most ancient cities in the world – probably the oldest country capital – established in the second millennium BC, and capital of the Umayyad Caliphate from 661 to 750, one of the most important caliphates ever, extending from Spain to Iran .

My favorite place in Damascus was Umayyad mosque , an outstanding mosque which passed from being a Jupiter Temple during the Roman era to a Christian basilica dedicated to John the Baptist and then one of the largest mosques in the world.

Today, Damascus is a safe city and, fortunately, the Old City has remained like that during most of the war.

I visited it at the beginning of 2019 and had a real blast.

For more information, read my Syria travel guide

Wanna travel to Syria with Against the Compass?

Join a group of like-minded travelers to visit the wonders of Damascus, Aleppo, Palmyra and more.

December 23rd to 30th, 2024

5 – Baalbek – Giant Roman ruins, all by yourself

Country – Lebanon

Extending from Western Europe to North Africa and the Middle East, the Roman Empire was the greatest empire that has ever existed.

Today, most of its ruins, some of them in relatively good condition, are major tourist attractions that receive hundreds of visitors every day.

Outside of Rome, the ruins of Baalbek are among the most impressive, not only due to their dimensions and good preservation, but also because you are likely to have the ruins to yourself as, here, we are talking about Lebanon, one of the most off the beaten track destinations in the region, where you can experience the greatest Roman ruins like nowhere else, hence one of the best places to travel in the Middle East.

Read more: How to spend 2 weeks in Lebanon

6 – Ghadames, an ancient caravan city

Country – Libya

600km from the capital of Libya (Tripoli) and nestled right at the triple border between Algeria, Tunisia and Libya, Ghadames is an ancient caravan city, one of the most important caravan cities in all of Africa. The Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a massive, entangled maze of streets built in a refreshing oasis in the middle of the desert.

It does take one full day to reach Ghadames by car from the capital Tripoli, but the journey is worth the trip.

Read my Libya travel guide .

7 – The twisting Minaret of Malwiya

Country – Iraq

Malwiya is an outstanding 52-meter-tall minaret with a peculiar spiral shape, absolutely jaw-dropping, and the most iconic building in all Iraq.

The minaret belongs to Al-Jami, a 9th century mosque, once one of the largest in the world, but destroyed in the 13th century.

The emblematic minaret, however, still stands and today, you can climb it to the very top through a steep spiral ramp with no handrail.

The minaret can be visited in the city of Samarra, once the capital of the Abbasid caliphate, the third caliphate to succeed the Prophet Muhammad.

Today, Samarra is a UNESCO World Heritage city, which can be easily visited on a day trip from Baghdad, a must-visit in the Middle East.

Read: Federal Iraq , 10-day itinerary for independent travelers .

Wanna travel to Iraq with Against the Compass?

Join a group of like-minded travelers and visit the wonders of Baghdad, Babylon, Karbala, Mosul, and more.

February 18th to 28th, 2025

8 – The coastline of Dhofar province

Country – Oman

Stretching from south Oman all the way to the Yemeni border, Dhofar’s coastline may differ significantly from what you expect from an Omani beach.

Vertiginous cliffs, turquoise-blue waters, and empty, epic beaches characterize the beaches of southern Oman, barely discovered by the average traveler, who tends to stick to the northern part of the country.

If you are into wild, random camping and road trips, in the Middle East, it doesn’t really get better than this.

Read my travel guide to Oman

9 – Al Balad, the colorful Old City of Jeddah

Country – Saudi Arabia

Unfortunately, very little is known about Saudi Arabia but, given that this is the home of Mecca, it shouldn’t be a surprise that Saudi is filled with ancient and historical places, and one of the best examples is Al Balad, the old part of Jeddah, established 1,300 years ago as the gateway for Muslims on their way to Mecca, mostly arriving by sea from Africa.

Today a UNESCO World Heritage site, Al Balad is a lively area filled with colorful facades and, by far, the most beautiful Old City from all the Gulf Monarchies.

Traveling to Saudi Arabia is getting easier than ever and here you read my tips for Saudi .

10 – Jerusalem – The holiest place for the three main monotheist religions

Country – Israel, and Palestine

Today, Jerusalem is part of Israel but, if Palestine ever becomes an independent state, East Jerusalem, which is mostly inhabited by Arabs, will be the capital of the country.

Being one of the most important places for Christians, Muslims, and Jews, Jerusalem is a city that has perfectly combined tradition and history with a 21st-century city, meaning that you can stroll around the old city and its historical sites for days and, at the same time, enjoy the endless nightlife, food scene, and modernity of the new part of Jerusalem.

Jerusalem is one of those cities that are worth spending several days in.

Read more: A travel guide to Palestine

11 – Golestan – Central Asia in the Middle East

What if I tell you that, in a very remote part of Iran, bordering the Turkmenistan border, there is a region with an unexpectedly mystical landscape, home to a large Turkmen community who have more similarities to people from Kyrgyzstan than other Iranians.

This region is called Golestan province, one of the least visited provinces in Iran, whose main peculiarity is that most of its inhabitants are ethnically Turkmen, a Central Asian ethnicity originally from Turkmenistan.

From Central Asian food, such as plov and kurut , to the way they dress, the Mongolian features in people’s faces and a very Central Asian nomadic life, visible in their love for horses and the yurts they live in, Golestan is a different world from the rest of the Middle East.

Read more: A guide to Golestan province in Iran

12 – Mosul, the open-air museum of Iraq

Mosul is exceptional, one of my favorite cities in all of the Middle East, and the reasons are as follow:

First of all, it is a very diverse city.

Prior to the war against the Islamic State, Mosul was inhabited by different types of Christians, Muslims and also Yazidis. It was ethnically mixed too, home to Armenians, Kurds, Arabs and Assyrians.

When ISIS took it over, however, most of them fled the city but today, many are coming back and the streets are becoming more lively than ever.

On the other hand, the Old City of Mosul is an open-air museum, packed with historical mosques and churches, all of them being in the UNESCO World Heritage tentative list .

While it’s true that most of the buildings are today largely destroyed due to the recent war, there’s a big UNESCO team working on rebuilding all its wonders , allowing you to witness an exciting moment of living history.

Read: Mosul travel guide

May 19th to 26th, 2024

13 – Erbil – A cosmopolitan Iraqi city

Not many cities in the world have as much history as Erbil has.

With almost 30,000 years of history, according to historians, and, today a UNESCO World Heritage site, Erbil is the capital of Iraqi Kurdistan, a city with plenty of tradition, filled with plenty of ancient bazaars, epic cafés, and historical sites.

Nevertheless, the awesomeness of Erbil doesn’t end up here and, in fact, what may surprise you is that, as well as a classic Middle Eastern Muslim city, this is also a real pro-Western metropolis and a regional business hub where a large expat community lives and, as a consequence, has some of the most awesome nightlife in the Middle East.

Read more: Things to do in Erbil

14 – Petra – One of the 7 wonders of the world

Country – Jordan

Even though this is likely the most touristic site in the region, it would be a sin not to consider one of the 7 wonders among one of the best places to visit in the Middle East.

Petra was founded in the VI century B.C. by the Edomites but, it didn’t prosper until the Nabateans (a group of nomadic Arabs) took over the place and built the city by carving it from the rock, making it become an important trading hub.

The architecture of Petra leaves you breathless and, besides admiring the Treasury and the Monastery, I recommend getting off the path, going hiking and taking the trails less traveled.

15 – Wadi Doa’n

Wadi Doa’n is a canyon-shaped valley located in the region of Hadramut and dotted with fairy-tale-like villages whose architecture is a real blessing to the eyes.

The canyon offers plenty of trekking opportunities with spectacular, vertiginous views, and there’s even a pretty cool resort on the top of a cliff where you can stay and which remains open despite the conflict.

Many of the people from these villages, especially young kids, have never seen foreigners, so the local life there is pretty raw. To make it even more exciting, there’s one village named Qarht Bahumaish, which is Usama Bin Laden’s hometown. He was born in Saudi but his family comes from there.

16 – Beirut – The most culturally diverse and liberal city in the Middle East

Beirut is the capital of Lebanon , a city that suffered one of the longest contemporary Civil Wars (25 years, ending in 1991). Today, among all the destroyed buildings, Beirut brags about being one of the safest cities in the region. With unbelievable economic growth and the rapid rise of the middle class, Beirut is the most liberal and westernized city in the Middle East (outside of Israel). 

I love Beirut because of its deep, rich and contrasting history. It’s composed of dozens of districts that differ massively from each other: The hipster district of Gemmayzeh, Hezbollah areas like Bourj al-Barajneh, the student neighborhood of Hamra, old Palestinian refugee camps, the Armenian district of Bourj Hammoud, several Christian areas and much, much more! Beirut is one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world.

From the deepest underground parties to the most glamorous clubs, from local eateries to the best fine dining restaurants in the region, Beirut is a city adaptable to any kind of traveler and budget. 

Read more about it here: Beirut travel guide

17 – The green, rolling hills of Jizan

Saudi Arabia is a massive country and, as such, it has quite a few geographical areas, the most dramatically different being Jizan, a province bordering the country of Yemen .

Asian-like terraced fields, greenery, and monkeys comprise the mountain villages of Jizan, miles away from Saudi Arabia stereotypes, plus the people there are culturally Yemeni, from the food they eat to the way they traditionally dress.

Jizan can’t be more off the beaten track.

For more information, read my 2-week itinerary for Saudi Arabia .

18 – Maaloula, a Christian town in Syria

Maaloula is a Christian town located north of Damascus (Syria) with an intriguing history, both ancient and contemporary.

On the one hand, this is one of the very few places in the world where they speak Aramaic, the language of Jesus, making it such a unique place.

Now that tourists are a rare thing to see, if you visit The Convent of Saint Serge and Bacchus, you are likely to meet the priest, who will certainly be more than happy to recite some words in Aramaic.

The recent history of Maaloula, however, isn’t so fortunate, since it was taken by Al Nusra (similar to ISIS) during the war, the legacy of which is still very visible in the many destroyed buildings. In fact, the nuns running the Monastery of Saint Tekla are the ones who were kidnapped by the Muslim extremists, a sad event in which even the Pope intervened.

August 11th to 17th, 2024

19 – The Dead Sea – The lowest point on Earth

Country – Jordan , Israel and Palestine

Occupying territory in both Israel & Palestine and Jordan , the Dead Sea is the lake with the highest salt density in the world and also, the lowest point on Earth, 430 meters below sea level.

Such is the high concentration of salt that animals and plants can’t live in it, hence the name.

Swimming in the Dead Sea is totally fine and, due to the high density of the water, sinking is almost impossible. I’ve only been to the Jordanian side of the Dead Sea and, along the coast, there are several hotels and resorts where you can chill on their beaches and have a mud bath.

20 – Liwa Oasis – The purest and wildest image of the Gulf

Country – United Arab Emirates

Around 500 years ago, a group of Bedouins tapped underground, freshwater recourses to cultivate dates and, as a result, several villages and settlements appeared in the area, which we currently call Liwa, the birthplace of the Nahyan family, the current ruling family of Abu Dhabi and the UAE.

Since then, and over the years, the cultivation of dates in Liwa has been a key factor in the region’s economic development.

Read: Best desert safaris in Dubai

Liwa is located in the south of UAE, next to Saudi Arabian border and on the edge of the Empty Quarter, a huge desert spread across UAE, Yemen, Oman , and Saudi Arabia and considered the largest (continuous) sea of dunes on Earth, whose end can’t even be seen from the furthest horizon.

In addition, in Liwa you can also find the only real Bedouins in the UAE and the Moreeb dune, one of the highest dunes in the world (300m).

Read more:  A guide to Liwa Oasis

21 – The Citadel of Aleppo

Along with Damascus, I also visited Aleppo at the beginning of 2019.

Before the war, Aleppo used to be the largest and most touristic city in the country.

Being a few thousands years older than Damascus, the Citadel and Old City of Aleppo have been mostly destroyed by the Civil War but after the liberation of the city in 2017, the reconstruction has already begun, Syrians are moving back and shops are, very slowly, reopening.

I am pretty sure that, in a matter of years, the beautiful city of Aleppo will return to its maximum splendor.

For more information, read my 8-day itinerary for Syria

22 – Madain Saleh, like Petra but more epic

Similar to Tabouk, have you ever been to Petra, in Jordan?

Imagine the wonders of Petra but in the desert of Saudi Arabia.

That’s Madain Saleh (or Hegra).

Hegra was an ancient city founded by local tribes in 3000 BC, but it was not until the 2nd century BC that the Nabateans made it a great city, in a fear of the Romans conquering Petra, so it could serve as the new capital. 

Still, the Romans conquered both cities, Hegra and Petra, but the more than 100 tombs carved from the giant desert rocks remained, today found in the middle of nowhere.

Unlike Petra, however, the tombs of Madain Saleh are spread out across a vast desert but as part of the visit, you can tour around with a pretty cool Vintage Jeep.

Read: Saudi Arabia itinerary

23 – Dahab – The most backpacking-friendly place in the Middle East

Country – Egypt

Dahab is a lovely touristic beach town inhabited by Bedouins in the Sinai peninsula, which is considered the most backpacking-friendly place (and probably the only one) in the Middle East.

For decades, Dahab has attracted travelers from all over the world for having some of the best diving in the country. In Dahab, one comes for two things: either scuba diving or doing literally nothing, as it has this laid-back atmosphere that consists of going to the beach, smoking weed and eating at the several seafood restaurants.

Besides, due to the massive drop of the Egyptian Pound, in Dahab, you could easily rent a full apartment (2 beds with Wi-Fi) for less than 9USD a day.

Read more: A guide for traveling Egypt (3-week itinerary + tips)

24 – Jerash – Massive and highly accessible Roman ruins

If making a trip to Lebanon to visit the ruins of Baalbek sounds too hardcore for you but you still want to travel to the Middle East, perhaps you should consider visiting Jerash, another of the greatest Roman ruins outside of Italy, constructed in some of the most fertile valleys in the region, today comprising green, rolling hills filled with olive and fig trees.

The location, therefore, is not a coincidence because, when it was built around 2,000 years ago, the Romans wanted to make it a great city due to the richness of the land.

25 – Musandam – The Norway of the Middle East

A rocky desert land composed of stunning fiords, cliffs and one of the largest varieties of wildlife in the Middle East, Musandam (often called the Norway of the Middle East) is a piece of territory within the UAE that belongs to Oman.

It’s located north of UAE, projecting into the Strait of Hormuz.

Musandam is a pretty common destination among expats living in Dubai but still, the area remains pretty untouched. Along the coast, you find several beaches only occupied by the local Omanis, who like to gather with their families for barbecues during the weekends. Expect several families to invite you to join them.

Read: Best excursions and activities to do in Oman

In Musandam, you could also rent an abra (a local traditional boat) to sail around the fiords and observe the wildlife. Meeting dolphins is almost guaranteed and, if you are into snorkeling, you can see that the deep and dark waters of Musandam are also home to coral, turtles and manta rays, among other things.

Read more: A guide to visiting Musandam in Oman

26 – Hebron – The most troubled city in Palestine

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Country – Palestine

Hebron is the city where the Tomb of the Patriarchs stands, the place where Abraham, Jacob and Isaac are buried.

The Tomb of the Patriarchs is one of the holiest places for both Muslims and Jews.

This means that both religions are sharing an important holy place but, on top of that, Hebron also happens to be the only city in Palestine where Jewish settlements are within the city itself.

The situation is quite sensitive, as there have been endless confrontations between the local Palestinians and the settlers .

In the old part of the city, the local Palestinians have built a fence that serves as a roof to prevent the settlers who live in the upper floors throwing garbage to them.

To add more tension to the conflict, during the holy month of Ramadan in 1994, a Jew entered the Tomb of Patriarchs (in the mosque inside), opened fire and killed 29 Muslims during prayer time.

Since then, the area is strictly controlled and, both Jewish and Muslim prayer areas are strictly separated. Abraham is buried in the middle of the Tomb of the Patriarchs, right between the synagogue and the mosque, so the members of both religions can see his tomb from their prayer room.

Read more: A guide to visiting Hebron in Palestine

27 – Qadisha Valley – Lovely Christian mountain villages

If you either want just to relax, eat good food, visit beautiful Christian monasteries or to go hiking, the Kadisha Valley in Lebanon will always be the perfect place for you.

Kadisha means ”holy” and owes this name to the fact that this valley is home to some of the most ancient communities of monastic Christians in the Middle East.

In case you don’t know it, monasticism is a way of life for which the person (in this case the Christian monks) renounces to everything to devote himself completely to spiritual work. The valley is full of natural caves, difficult to access, that once served as places of isolation for the monks living lives devoted to Christ.

Kadisha is a really unique place to visit in the Middle East.

28. Leptis Magna, first league Roman ruins by the Mediterranean

Leptis Magna was a prominent city in Roman Libya, originally a Phoenician town (7th century BCE) that quickly expanded under the Roman Empire. The ruins are in excellent condition, and the whole complex is huge.

Its particular attraction is that the ruins are built right next to the shore, including the fantastic amphitheater.

Leptis Magna can easily be reached from Tripoli in around two hours, making it the perfect day trip from the capital and a default in all the group expeditions we organize.

29 – The Mesopotamian Marshes

Another great place to visit in the Middle East are the Arab Marshes, a wetland ecosystem located in south Iraq, sort of an aquatic landscape located in the Iraqi desert.

It occupies an area of 10,000km 2 , inhabited by water buffaloes and all sort of animals and plants.

The Marshes are also home to a distinct cultural group: the Marsh Arabs, who populate the different islands, living in their sarifas , a peculiar house entirely made of reed.

The Marshes can be visited from the southern city of Nasiriyah and the best way to experience it is on a boat tour.

Read: A guide to travel in Federal Iraq

30 – Manama – Drugs and rock & roll

Country – Bahrain

In case you’ve never heard of it, Bahrain is a tiny country (one of tiniest in the world actually) located in the Persian Gulf, between Qatar and Saudi Arabia, and Manama is its capital.

To make it short, Bahrain is the only Arab Gulf Monarchy that has run out of petrol, or at least, can’t rely on the petrol income anymore.

In desperation, looking at alternative ways of gaining income, Bahrain became the party place in the Middle East, where concerning prostitution, alcohol, and parties, in general, are more permissive than in any other Gulf country.

Connected to Saudi Arabia by a bridge, every week, thousands of Saudis cross the border to have fun and enjoy a relative level of freedom.

Besides, this is the only place in the Middle East where I’ve seen two homosexuals making out in the middle of the street.

Manama is also home to many Western expats, who hang out in a popular area called Adliya, which has plenty of bars and wall paintings and makes one forget that he or she is in the Middle East.

Bahrain is, unequivocally, one of the most surreal places to travel and visit in the Middle East.

31 – Luxor – The greatest open-air museum

Established on the shore of the great Nile river and surrounded by both mango plantations and desert, Luxor is the world’s greatest open-air museum.

This is the place where the most well-known pharaohs come from, like Tutankhamun for example, and most of the temples are either in excellent conditions or perfectly restored.

From large and epic tombs to temples constructed on a giant scale, all of them dating from between 3,200 B.C. and 1,500 B.C, Luxor is an unmissable place to travel in the Middle East.

Read more: How to visit Luxor independently, in 2 days

32 – Palmyra, today the most off the beaten track ruins

Not so long ago, the Roman ruins of Palmyra used to receive hundreds of thousands of tourists every year.

Dating back to the second millennium BC, it has been inhabited for more than 4,000 years before becoming part of the Roman Empire during the first century AD.

It used to be an important trade caravan route and its wealth allowed them to build monuments such as the Temple of Bel and the Great Colonnade.

Nowadays, the city of Palmyra is a ghost town, a direct consequence of the battle against ISIS but the archaeological area has re-opened for tourists, always escorted by a member of the Syrian Army.

The Temple of Bell is practically all ruins but Palmyra is a big complex and many of its marvels are still standing.

33 – Salalah – Coconuts, pineapples, and tropical rain

What if I tell you that there’s a place in the Persian Gulf where it rains, which it’s full of green meadows and the locals sell coconuts and pineapples?

This place is called Salalah, a city found in the most southern part of Oman, very close to the Yemeni border.

Salalah, and the region of Dhofar, is an area that experiences a monsoon season.

This season is called Khareef and occurs from July till September. During this season, Salalah becomes a beautiful and lush green, which attracts visitors from all over the country, as well as Saudi Arabia and UAE, who want to run away from their disgustingly hot and humid weather.

Read more: Salalah travel guide

34 – Bethlehem – Take a look at the Wall of Separation between Israel and Palestine

Bethlehem is the birthplace of Jesus.

However, unless you are an ardent Christian, the most interesting part of Bethlehem is to get a close feeling of the consequences of the Israeli occupation as, after the Second Intifada, in 2001, Israel built an 8-meter wall that would finally isolate the West Bank from Israel.

The wall, however, was built within Palestinian territory, hence the Israelis stole some of their land.

Literally, it passes by the center of the city and it is decorated with plenty of Pro-Palestinian paintings, including a real work from the famous Banksy, the white pigeon.

For more information, read my travel guide to Palestine

35 – Qeshm Island – The most authentic Persian Gulf culture

Located in the Persian Gulf, right in the Strait of Hormuz, between Oman and Iran, Qeshm is an island with amazing geological formations, as well as very rich wildlife.

This is what most travelers come here for but, in my opinion, the most interesting part of the island is to get immersed in the local culture, as this is the only place that has been able to preserve the fast-disappearing Persian Gulf culture, today only visible here and in a few other places in Oman.

Unlike the rest of Iran, people here are Sunnis, from the conservative branch actually, Wahabis, but, since they have a great Iranian influence, they are quite laid back.

Qeshm is a different world from the rest of Iran and it can be seen not only in the religion, the architecture and their food, which is mainly based on seafood but also in the way their women dress, in such colorful abayas and niqabs , like nowhere else you have ever seen.

Read more: A guide to Qeshm Island

36 – Wadi Bajda, authentic Saudi Bedouin life

Have you ever visited the Wadi Rum in Jordan?

The Wadi Rum is a beautiful, red-sand-dune desert that stretches across Jordan and north of Saudi Arabia too, in the region of Tabouk.

However, while in Jordan, Wadi Rum has become an extremely touristic place, on the Saudi side, the Saudi Bedouins living there are still genuine and authentic, allowing you to live witness what traditional life is like in Saudi.

Amazing rock formations and camel farms, all without a single tourist around.

Read: How to travel to Saudi

That was my list of the best places to travel in the Middle East for next year. Have you been to any? If you have more recommendations or suggestions, feel free to post them in the comments section!

90 comments

It is amazing to see the diversity and variety of landscapes in the Middle East, which most people think of as just a desert. I have long been fascinated by Oman, for the reasons you pointed out. The coastline looks beautiful, and though I never heard the comparison before, it does look like the Norway of the Middle East. Great photos and thanks for showcasing some truly different destinations to us travelers!

Hi Drew. Yes, the big natural and cultural contrast is huge in the Middle East and yeah, perhaps is one of those comparisons that only the locals say it! But, it truly has some similarities with Norway. Glad you liked the photos, thanks for your comment 😉

I’ve not been to many of these places. I think it’s great you’re writing about them so we can see that there are so many great areas that are safe and good to travel to. It demystifies it a little and makes travelers more comfortable with taking that leap.

Hey Laura, that is my objective, to make people realize of the huge potential that this region can offer, while being safe at all time! I would never recommend a dangerous place to travel to 🙂 !

There is so much interesting information in your article that I do not know what to comment about! I didn’t know many of these places, while others (like Petra and Beirut) are definitely in my bucket list for the future. The most striking fact was the one about Bahrain and the loose morals while my favorite image was the one from Musandam!

Hi Efthimis, yes I understand your frustration. All these sites are so different from each other that is difficult to make an overall judgment 😉 I’m glad you like it and yeah, if you’ve never been to any of these places, Beirut and Petra would be a good start as they are probably the most traveler-friendly spots. Bahrain is a crazy place full hypocrisy!

Such fascinating insights, and I’d love to visit Oman – my parents have been and raved about how friendly everyone was. As for Lebanon, the nightlife sounds great

Thank you! All sort of travelers enjoy going to Oman!

I’ve been to Lebanon a couple of times and really enjoyed it. I’d love to go and visit Jordan.

In my opinion, Lebanon is the #1 destination!

What an amazing post about the middle east. After reading this I am even more confused as to which place I should visit first. Amadiya and Kadisha are so strikingly beautiful. Would love to visit Beirut someday.

My recommendation, start with Beirut!

Oh man! I used to live in Dubai for about 4 years, and 1 year in Saudi prior to that, and I thought I’ve travelled quite extensively in the Middle East but looking at the list above, there are still many places that I have yet to visit, 8 to be exact, haha! I certainly would recommend Musandam, Petra, Beirut, Dead Sea (even if it’s just for the sea). Bahrain is not bad either actually, quite enjoyed visiting the historic places there. Of the places that I haven’t been, I’d love to go to Hebron one day!

Hi Raw, I also lived in Dubai for about 3 years. Just left the city at the end of 2016. Middle East is huge and still, there are many places that remained on my bucket list. I haven’t been to KSA for example 🙂 Bahrain is a party place so, unless you really want to do that, there’s not much to see besides a few historical sites, but to be honest, they are not very exciting. And yes, Hebron is the most intriguing one. I’m going to the TBEX Jerusalem this March and I will visit it again for sure! Cheers mate,

Its so interesting reading about your middle east highlights – some places are truly beautiful, others, more intriguing. I had no idea that Bahrain had run out of oil money and had become a hot mess of drugs, alcohol and prostitutes! I’d love to visit Oman and Jordan – and have added a few more places to my Middle Eat wishlist thanks to your post.

Hi Vicky, thanks for your comment. Yeah, I had no idea about Bahrain also, until a friend told me so we decided yo go with a bunch of friends. We partied hard until 6-7am, something unthinkable in places like Dubai for examle. But besides that, Bahrain is a very ugly country! It’s worth if you go there as a weekend trip from Dubai

I am from Oman if you want any help i can help you . [email protected]

This list is amazing, Joantow!I’ve been to Jordan and lived in Israel (will be back there again for a much longer stay), but I’ve yet to see the other places. I’m sure it will be just as exciting or more! Can’t wait to go to Lebanon and Oman next!

Hi Trisha, I believe that living in Israel must have been an amazing experience. If you like Israel, you’ll like Lebanon. Both countries have been in a war for years but they have more similarities than even think!

I love this article! It’s been a long time that I want to visit the Middle East, although everybody tells me not to go, I have many friend who went there and friends who live there who always encourage me to go. Sadly the East part of the globe is still too mysterious for those in the West and what we know about the East is that of what we heard on the news. But definetely it does not represent Middle East a whole. Great part of it is beautiful and safe and its people are warm and kind. Unfortunately the media forgets this part, after all, bad news bring more audience than the good ones.

Hello Isadora, glad you liked it 🙂 Where do your friends live? You really should go! Yes, you are absolutely right. When things go right, there’s nothing to talk about so, they just talk about it when bad things are happening and, unfortunately, they always treat the region as a whole. Treating the Middle East as a single country is like someone from the Philippines saying that Europe is a country and, since there was war in Crimea, Portugal or Spain are dangerous 🙂

I am not saying that Iraqi Kurdistan is not a beautiful area (I’ve been there . .) but nowadays it is dangerous. And why people should go to Bahrain if there is only prostitutes, alcohol and drugs? That makes it one of the best places to go this year?

Hi Elisa, it’s good that you’ve been to Kurdistan but you are very wrong. You just need to look at the statistics. In the past years, there have been more killed people due to terrorism in the city of Paris than in the whole region of Kurdistan. Besides, Kurdistan is a region where the crime rate is non-existent, whereas in Paris, like many other European cities, it’s pretty high. You are the first person I’ve ever met who is been to Kurdistan and claims it’s a dangerous place. As per Bahrain, if you read carefully my post, I don’t say that one needs to go there to get high on drugs and hook up with prostitutes. I am saying that Bahrain is a surrealistic and unique place that, for a moment, makes you forget that you are actually in one of most conservatives regions in the world. Moreover, I’m also talking about a cool westernized area, full of bars where the Western expats use to hang out

What a great list! Even though I am from the Middle East (Iran), I haven’t been to many places you mentioned. Of Course I hiked in Gilan and visited Masuleh, but not other places. You called Oman, Norway of the Middle East, but I always say that is a Switzerland of Middle east :)))

Hey Mansoureh, thanks for your comment man! The Gilan province is an amazing place to hike! There are a lot of other places in Iran I would include on the list, but unfortunately, I didn’t have a lot of time when I visited Iran! It’s funny that you call Oman the Switzerland of the Middle East! Well, I guess that both Norway and Switzerland have some similarities. Cheers mate,

Mansoureh is a girls name! And there is no such thing as Arabian Gulf. There is a water passage that separates iran from Southern Arab states and it’s called Persian Gulf for millennia

Everywhere on this list sounds amazing! I love seeing people traveling to the Middle East even with everything the media has to say about it. I think people need to do a little more research about these places. I love the pictures, too! Awesome list!

Hi Megan, thanks for your comment! Yes, is what I always say. The problem with the Middle East, as well as with many other countries, is that there’s a huge lack of information and since, unfortunately, people don’t know how to look beyond, all these areas become, unequivocally, dangerous places where to travel to!

A great round-up of places to visit, well done! I’ve been to most. Love Musandam. It’s funny, as I just published a post on Muslim countries!

I was born in Bahrain and I’ve lived here for the past 24 years, and honestly I was a bit taken aback by your description of Bahrain. There is nothing to deny in what you said, yes Bahrain is pretty big on nightlife and comparatively more lenient than other countries in the middle east, however that’s not all there is to this little island! In my 24 years of living here I’ve actually never even been exposed to the part of Bahrain that you are referring to. Bahrain is actually very rich in it’s history (we’re talking 700 B.C) and you can find out all about it in the Bahrain National Museum – which has so much information, you’ll have to cover it over the course of a few days. Besides it’s history and a couple of sights (Grand Mosque, Beit Al Quran, Bahrain International Circuit, Bahrain Fort, Riffa Fort, Bab Al Bahrain, Military Museum, A’ali Pottery workshop – to name a few), Bahrain doesn’t have much to offer but I’d urge you not to defame this wonderful and tiny island and discredit it for everything else it has to offer- even if you aren’t a history kind of person! Cheers 🙂

I agree! I want to see the archaeological site of Dilmun palace!!!!

True, Hana………and I don’t know from why this guy is making Bahrain down for other viewers… Where did he see two homosexuals making out in Manama, Bahrain? He published such a rubbish and fake news and make Bahrain go downward among the viewers. Bahrain is is rich in culture and it’s financial structure. Bahrain follows Sharia Law and such activities are strictly prohibited here and specially as he mentioned about drugs that too is illegal. As per alcohol no one can drink it in the streets. I dont know why is he faking such news about BAHRAIN. Please have a good research and then only put it

I’d absolutely love to go to Beirut!

What a list! Thanks a lot 🙂 Two questions: How safe would you rate each of your listed places for a 19yo (very mature) female solo traveller? And are there countries you would recommend to visit only during a specific time of the year?

Hello Isi, It’s very hard to say for a 19-year old woman but, perhaps, you could start for the most touristic places, such as Jordan, United Arab Emirates or Egypt, as the local there are extremely used to foreign woman. It’s easier to travel there and you’ll get a great experience of the Muslim culture, which will help jumping to more challenging places such as Oman or Iran. As per timings, Don’t go to the Gulf countries in the summer months or Egypt. The rest is fine.

As a woman who has traveled alone in the GCC, I personally found Oman safer than UAE, when and if it comes to any disputes involving police witg creepy locals. Uae is easier for visas and airport in general, but Oman was very safe and more nature, cultural and historical sites. The only disadvantage of Oman is if you go without a car rental.

Hello, That should be Iran for sure.

Well done–this is a great list! I lived in Oman for 8 years and traveled widely throughout the region, although I missed a couple of places on your list. The Middle East is a great destination both for sightseeing and to educate oneself to the realities of the region, a good counter-balance to the crap cranked out by the international press.

Agree! and Oman is beautiful by the way! I visited it three times but always in a rush, unfortunately… It’s kind of a spiritual country… 🙂

about Number 13: Javaher Dasht In Gilan Province is heaven of middle east!! ,full of green & different super beautiful dreamy jungles & cold cool places on the top of mountain (recommended go for summers & spring) .. in villas you enjoy the view & breakfast of local materials : milk,butter,cheese,… & lots of fun! actually Iran is the Most safe country in the Middle east …do not pay attention to media. don’t forgot take beautiful pictures in “javaher dasht” wich means valley of Diamonds!….mountaineering & drink & eat foods of local people, so delicious. super clean weather with “”very friendly local people”” , they love foreigners but 99% doesn’t know english ,better to bring some tour guide with your self &

thanks for your suggestion!

Oman has becomes to be known as one of the most popular tourist destinations in Middle East thanks to the country’s strategic location and its unspoilt natural beauty with its scenic landscape. Oman is attraction for the tourist from UAE and visitors across the world.

Yes! I love Oman! And don’t forget about the hospitable people!

Hey Nice list I’m Lebanese and I can say that there is much more places in Lebanon to visit. Every summer we discover new places in our country and I’m surprised that Lebanon has such beautiful places! I definitely recommend it and would love to visit the other countries

Thanks Sara! Yes, Lebanon has many places to offer! Cheers!

everybody and their mother knows that it’s Persian gulf.

Peace and love, my friend 😉 !! I also call it Persian Gulf now but when I wrote this post 2 years ago, I was living in the Gulf monarquies, so got used to say Arab Gulf. After spending some months in Iran, I started to call it Persian Gulf again. I may change it when I update the post in a few weeks

Thank you for this post (first result up in my search for how a Canadian can travel to Iran). I have been studying (just a personal interest) ancient Persian and Elamite influence in Oman, and I decided I have to go to Iran. Persians were established in Oman before the Arabs came up from Yemen (so before the Arab migrations to the Gulf) . *I see this influence in pagan archaeological sites *in design on hair combs from Oman and Tel Abraq in the UAE. *in Ad Dhakliyia Omani dress, agricultural heritage, and place names in GCC:)

Yeah, first peace and second it’s Persian gulf my bro.🙂 Arab gulf isn’t correct.🙂

IT’s Persian Gulf not Arabian Gulf. By spending money you can’t change history.

Its called officially and internationally known as PERSIAN gulf, its been that way for thousandths of years!

Beirut is the most liberal and culturally diverse city in the middle east? Looks like you forgot Tel Aviv (and Israel generally…)

Thank You so much for the insightful article. I recently decided it was time for me to visit the Middle East and This is one of the first articles I read. I’m curious as to how hard it is to travel and appreciate the culture if you only speak English (I speak Spanish too, but I really doubt that will help. lol) I’ve traveled in other regions of the world where English isn’t spoken and while I’ve managed, it was still an obstacle. Just curious on what your thoughts are. Also, Are there issues traveling to certain countries in the region if you already have a stamp from Isreal on your passport. I feel like I read that somewhere. Obviously I’ll research that further before I show up at the border but I’m wondering if you have some insight. I have a US passport, btw.

Hi there! In the Middle East, most well-educated people speak English, so the language is not always a problem, except for when you go to rural areas. It is much easier to move around than in other regions, especially if you travel to mass tourism destinations such as Egypt or Jordan, where a lot of people speak it.

As per the Israeli stamp, I have written a comprehensive post about it: https://againstthecompass.com/en/avoid-israeli-passport-stamp/

Hi Joan ! I totally agree with Qeshm island ! I spent a week there and it was sooooooo good. It was my ultimate stop before going back to Paris after 6 months cycling from France to Iran. This island was magical for me because a friend hosted us in a small village along the sea. Anyway, thank you for the list.

Thanks Mike, it must have been a great adventure your cycling trip

Actually Tel Aviv is the most Liberal city in the entire Middle East. How can you say the Beirut is the most liberal city in the area when being gay isn’t legal in Lebanon. It is one of the most amazing cities I’ve ever been to, it has such an amazing vibe to it, when I was there I never felt safer. And overall I highly recommend staying in Israel as a “base” (even though israel it’s probably the most expensive state in the Middle East) and to cross the border to Jordan and Egypt, is very simple.

Continue reading the whole Beirut section and you’ll see that I clearly state that Beirut is the most liberal city outside of Israel. If you only read the headlines, your conclusions will always be so poor, and wrong.

Joan, great article. You are the brave guy that not afraid to visit this world boiling cauldron. Funny to see in your article how you promote your political views about names and historical mistakes. Be impartial, try to see wider )))

I appreciate your feedback and I am always open to criticism, but you can’t just say my article has mistakes without pointing out what’s wrong and giving any reasoning.

Although I live in Abu Dhabi as a resident for the past almost 6 years now, but I have not been able to see most of the places which are famous in UAE itself. The only reason is that I work in offshore in the oilfield. You have actually opened up my options of travel into the Middle East as I don’t have any issues with the traveling in these places. Jerusalem of course will be a no go for me since I hold a Pakistan citizenship. I’m really looking forward to visit Palestine for the reason I can go to Bethlehem. Also Salalah and Manama will be my next destinations to visit. Thank you for your detailed review.

I also enjoyed myself while I was visited this kind of places.

Hey You, Where did you see two homosexuals making out in Manama, Bahrain? Don’t publish such rubbish and fake news and make Bahrain go downward among the viewers. Bahrain is is rich in culture and it’s financial structure. Bahrain follows Sharia Law and such activities are strictly prohibited here and specially as you mentioned about drugs that too is illegal. As per alcohol no one can drink it in the streets. I dont know why are you faking such news about BAHRAIN. Please have a good research and then only put it.

I saw it with my own eyes, it’s not fake news. I never said you can drink in the street and I never said you can have drugs, but the title has a figurative meaning.

Hey, I’m DL (gay not out) and I know PLENTY of Arab guys in Bahrain who drink (yes, openly in restaurants) and are homosexual/DL. Just because YOU don’t see/know it, doesn’t mean it’s impossible to exist. The article doesn’t mention that you can be openly gay in Bahrain, but it only mentions what he witnessed once (the author was very clear on that.)

Whaaat? you really saw two homosexuals in Bahrain making out in the public street and no actions were taken against them?????????

It was obviously not during the day in downtown, but it was at night, in the Western area, they were probably drunk, and weren’t doing it intensively. I don’t know what their nationality was.

so, please make it clear in your above mentioned statements that every time its not possible. and make it clear too that bahrain is strict for such activities

I totally aggry with all of this and very interesting.

Even though I love your suggestions, I think that your being a bit harsh on the Jews and Israel generally. Fine Ill admit Israel has made mistakes and done bad things in the past years, but a lot of that is due to Hamas sending missiles at cities. Other than that I love your article and encourage you to do more.

Ah! 2020 seems a bit hard for the wonderful travel to these amazing places. Some of them were already added to my list, but I have just noticed a new place called Musandam, where I can visit for sure. Nice blog, and very well written.

My g, this is one of the best articles I’ve ever read. Not too long, yet very informative and interesting. It was also nice to see someone differentiating between the Israeli Settlers and Palestinian locals and shedding some light on the Palestinian struggles. Great choice of destinations as well. 😀

You say “Country: Palestine”. But there’s no such a country (You even admit and says “…if palestine would become a country…”) If is it a country, please tell me its how do you get straight to it? where are its airports? its anthem? its currency? Oh… there are none of them. You clearly don’t know anything about the situation so please be focused on other stuff. Also, not including Tel Aviv in best places to visit in the middle east is another mistake in this “article”. Good luck!

They did have an airport, in Gaza city precisely, but it was destroyed by the Israelis. They did have their own currency, but Israel took over and now they use the Israeli shilling. According to the UN, Palestine is a state, a non-member permanent observer state, along with Vatican City.

This article is an ”opinon” article, which includes the best places in my personal experience, that’s why I didn’t include Tel Aviv. If you want to include it, create your own list.

Good luck to you too,

“Palestine” never had a currency of their own. Also never had an active airport. Its electricity and water are provided 100% by Israel (And not by Egypt, which is another Gaza’s bordering country). FYI, Israel has left all of control in Gaza in 2005, the Hamas operates theere fully wide. The UN has been anti semitic and it is might be the only organization (together with hostile nations such as Iran, North Korea, China, Russia) who support “Palestine”. Please stay where you are and don’t stick your nose in our business in Israel. What a naive foreigner. Go live in Gaza if you like it, you will escape for your soul after short time. Sorry for being harsh on you, but you were being harsh on Israel at first. Know who you support and what are their goals and history.

You are such an extremist, man!

Taking action against Israeli occupation of speaking in favour with the Palestinian is not automatically hate towards Jews or antisemitism. Supporting Palestinian rights is anti semitic because Israel wants it to be. https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2022/02/israels-apartheid-against-palestinians-a-cruel-system-of-domination-and-a-crime-against-humanity/

I am not sure if you have visited the whole Iran or not. But if you’ve only visited those three places, I’d say it’s not a wise action. The beautiful cities of Shiraz, Tabriz, Qazvin, Chabahar, Mashhad, Tehran, Ramsar, Rasht, Hamedan, Kermanshah, Kerman, Yazd, Kish Island and a LOT of other cities to visit and a lot of tasty food to try! You should definitely spend quite more time in Iran! And also, it was very interesting to read this!

Hi Liam, yes, I have been twice and spent more than 2 months in the country 🙂

Visited plenty of places, like the ones here: https://againstthecompass.com/en/iran-itinerary/

Ahhhhh, thank you for this list! I just found your blog while in East Africa and decided to check out other places you wrote about. I’m so excited to see a good ME list…and I currently live in Dahab so I’m loving that it made the list as well – if you are ever there again, go more north and check out Nuweiba (Dahab is getting a bit busy..sigh). Anywho, thanks for sharing your travels!

Cheers Jill, Dahab must be such a chilled place to live for a while!

perhaps you should consider visiting Egypt again. the beaches in the north coast are spectatcular ,huge stretch of white, soft sandy beaches. Dahab is definitely the most backpacker friendly, but marsa alam in my opinion is the best town on the red sea. Giftun island is amazing as well it’s near hurghada also i’m kind of surprised that cairo that’s filled with sites and museums didn’t make the list but everyone has different opinions i guess and i think most people don’t know how big cairo really is

I am heading to Kuwait and will be based there for several weeks, any recommendations of what to see in and near?

Never been to Kuwait!¡, unfortunately

Hlo, am from Uganda and i have never visited Middle East but i hope this year i may visit Egypt to what i have seen.

We were recently on a long trip through 5 countries in the Middle East, and wanted to give some input to your posts on Lebanon which we found quite valuable. We are independent explorers travelling to places less travelled, hence doing all our own research online and finding speaking to locals invaluable. On the odd occasion that we did look at a blog post for Lebanon – yours stood out giving depth to the experiences. So thank you.

Barring the current crisis situation in this region of southern Lebanon – we can confirm that it is safe and easy to travel to both Tyre & Sidon from Beirut by public transport (1 taxi from Cola Station takes you to both towns) or your own vehicle. There are UN checkpoints, but nothing serious – in fact an added measure of safety.

One cannot visit Lebanon without seeing the majestic city of Baalbek. All news reports tell you not to visit, with travel advisories in place because it’s close to the Syrian border with some reported tourist muggings and a kidnapping in recent years (not 100% unique to Baalbek in the global picture). We spoke to locals, hotel managers, coffee shop owners etc – all advising otherwise and so we went. From Beirut hotel, we took an Uber to Cola Bus Station and a then mini van directly to Baalbek (about 2hr 30min). The incredible scale of the ruins are magnificent to see – and cannot be missed

Dear Janine, thanks a lot for this valuable feedback!

The Old City of Damascus is a destination that holds a wealth of history, culture, and architecture. It is a place that demands a visit for anyone seeking to learn about ancient civilizations and their way of life. The city is home to some of the world’s oldest and most well-preserved buildings, including the iconic Umayyad Mosque. The mosque was built in the 8th century and still stands tall as a testament to the architectural prowess of the time.

The Old City of Damascus is a labyrinth of narrow streets, alleys, and bustling markets. Walking through these streets is like taking a journey back in time. The buildings, shops, and markets are a testament to the city’s long and rich history. Visitors can explore the maze of alleys and bazaars, haggle with the merchants, and experience the sights, sounds, and smells of this ancient city.

The city’s cultural heritage is also a major draw for visitors. The Old City of Damascus has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, and for good reason. The city’s rich cultural heritage is evident in its architecture, food, music, and art. Visitors can explore the city’s many museums and galleries, attend concerts and festivals, and indulge in local cuisine.

Overall, the Old City of Damascus is a sensory experience that will leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits. From the scent of exotic spices to the sound of the call to prayer, the city is a feast for the senses. It’s a place that is steeped in history, culture, and tradition, and a destination that should be on everyone’s travel bucket list.

Is it safe to visit Shibam for a solo lady as my sister’s friend will be visiting it in the months of august? and What are the do’s and don’ts that must be kept in mind?

Hello, you can’t visit Yemen solo, but you must always go with a local guide.

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Experts in tailor-made vacations to the Middle East

A storied land that can be both sere and fertile, the Middle East exists within a tangle of cultures, religions and empires, both ancient and modern. Here, you’ll find cities from myth that still hum with life as well as people who live in the world’s most extreme climates. We can help you explore colossal monuments that date back millennia, ancient holy sites from many religions and landscapes of otherworldly beauty. Our specialists return regularly to this antique land and can work with you to plan a vacation to the Middle East that takes in the region’s marvels.

Delve into the hospitable soul of the region and uncover new perspectives on places like Jerusalem’s Western Wall, Petra’s hidden city and Egypt’s Pyramids of Giza. You could find yourself slipping into a Bedouin tent to share mint tea in Jordan or watching the sunrise from an Omani dune.

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Where you can travel with us in the Middle East

Our specialists can help you plan your trip, individually focusing on your tastes and interests, to the destinations below.

Trip ideas in the Middle East

These itineraries will give you a starting point for what your trip could entail. They cover routes that we've found work particularly well and feature some of our favorite places to stay. Treat them just as inspiration, as each trip is created uniquely for you and there are many more options available.

Highlights of Egypt: Cairo & Nile cruise

7 days from $3,955pp

Luxury Cairo & the treasures of the Nile

12 days from $15,995pp

Classic Cairo, Luxor & Aswan overland

9 days from $5,055pp

Jordan & a romantic Egyptian Nile cruise

16 days from $10,995pp

Classic Jordan tour: Amman, Petra & the Dead Sea

8 days from $4,295pp

Luxury Turkey tour: Istanbul, Cappadocia & Bodrum

12 days from $11,930pp

Ultimate Oman

13 days from $6,995pp

Grand tour of Egypt

15 days from $11,655pp

Huvafen Fushi and Dubai

12 days from $12,505pp

Historic Greece & Turkey

16 days from $11,990pp

Luxury Dubai: beach & desert

8 days from $9,940pp

Highlights of Turkey & Jordan

15 days from $13,315pp

Our expert guides to exploring the Middle East

Capturing our specialists’ extensive travel experience in the Middle East, these guides share inspiration, recommendations and our honest advice for how to enjoy the best of what the region can offer in the most authentic ways. From the wealth of options we describe, you can narrow down the choices and start to shape your own trip.

Top 5 trips to Egypt

Would you prefer to cruise along the Nile, soaking up Egypt’s ancient vistas, or combine a city stay in Cairo with time on the Red Sea’s coral-fringed coast? We’ve curated our specialists’ top Egypt tour ideas to help you plan your next trip.

What to do in Morocco: our highlights guide

Morocco is a destination with fascinating local customs, a rich history and many geological wonders. Immerse yourself in the labyrinth of Medieval souqs, try the local cuisine, go walking in the beautiful High Atlas Mountains, or take a camel trip into the desert and sleep under the stars.

Family vacations in Morocco

A vibrant and diverse country, Morocco is a very family-friendly destination with plenty of hands-on experiences and quirky accommodation options for families. Morocco specialist Kerry explains how to get the most out of your time here.

Luxury Egypt: live like a pharaoh

A room at the foot of the Great Pyramid, an opulent ship on the Nile, and private guides — Egypt specialist Emma outlines the most indulgent ways to enjoy the country’s classic sights.

Nile cruises: the route to ancient Egypt

A Nile cruise is the classic way of exploring Egypt. Drift down the Nile in a comfortable cruise boat, making stops to visit Ancient Egyptian temples and tombs. Egypt specialist Steve outlines how you can make the most of your cruise.

10 min read

Walking and trekking vacations in Morocco

Home to North Africa's highest mountain and the stunning Ourika Valley, Morocco is the perfect choice for a walking or trekking vacation in North Africa. We can advise you on the best places to stay to make the most of these wonderful walking opportunities.

What to do in Egypt: our highlights guide

Home to some of the world's most historical monuments and best dive sites, Egypt's size makes it possible for the first-time visitor to see many of its highlights in a relatively short trip.

Family vacations in Egypt

If you're planning a family vacation to Egypt we can recommend family friendly activities as well as suitable places to stay. This captivating country has a very low malaria risk.

Dubai travel guide: our highlights

Though it’s known for dizzying skyline, man-made islands and vast malls, Dubai has plenty to offer besides. Specialist Matt shares his recommendations, from its best beach areas to discovering the hidden traditions of this desert city in its souqs and bazaars.

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Best of Holy Land Israel & Jordan and Egypt Tour with Nile Cruise - 17 Days

Highlights of the holy land israel & jordan & cairo tour - 13 days, magic of egypt (with free all inclusive upgrade hurghada hotel) 12 days, egypt explorer - felucca cruise & red sea, best of egypt - 5* cruise, pharaohs nile cruise adventure - return flights included, best of turkey- 10 days, queen cleopatra - 7 days, amazing adventure of egypt and dubai, footsteps of the pharaohs - included internal flights.

“Excellent tour of the Holy Land.” James more, traveled in June 2022

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year
• Wander through bustling Khan-el-Khalili bazaar
• Tour the iconic Great Pyramids of Giza
• Explore the ancient city of Petra

“Transfer to Jordan and Egypt borders was well organized.” Vasco Lourenço, traveled in July 2022

• Wander through Cairo's bustling Khan-el-Khalili bazaar
• Marvel at the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx
• Uncover the mysteries of Petra's red rock city

“This story is absolutely amazing. I wanted to experience everything they had to offer.” Tiffany Bailey, traveled in August 2024

• Cruise the Nile and visit Karnak Temple
• Relax with Red Sea snorkeling in Hurghada
• Discover treasures at the Egyptian Museum

“It was one of my most beautiful travel! The itinerary was great and all hotels too.” Laurène Kahn, traveled in September 2024

• Go sightseeing in Cairo and experience the open market
• Visit the Pyramids of Giza and see the mythical Sphinx
• Explore the stunning Aswan and the West Bank of Luxor

“Simply the best experience we could have had on our honeymoon.” Brian Harrison, traveled in December 2023

• Sightseeing
• Visit the final resting place of the pharaohs
• Discover artifacts and dating from over 4000 years ago
• Be amazed by the Great Pyramids and Sphinx of Giza

“The places we visited were mind blowing and the price was remarkably good value.” Jonathan Gill, traveled in September 2024

• Cruise along the Nile and admire the beautiful scenery
• Learn about 4000-year-old culture in Egyptian Museum

“This tour was amazing, capturing the highlights of Turkey and showcasing the warmth of this country.” Vanessa Jade Parr, traveled in July 2024

• Explore Hagia Sophia and its grandeur
• Relax in Pamukkale's thermal waters
• Ride the cable car to Tunektepe in Antalya

“The Queen Cleopatra tour was amazing!! So many wonderful sights and a ton of information. Great intro to the best parts of Egypt.” Terica Tabb, traveled in September 2024

• Rest assured in 4-5 star comfort, ensuring your utmost relaxation after each day of exploration.
• Our guides will provide fascinating insights, enhancing your experience and deepening your understanding of these ancient wonders.
• Embark on a captivating journey through Egypt’s rich history as you explore renowned sites.

“The tour was well organized offering a wealth of historical insights.” Johnson, traveled in April 2024

• Discover the Valley of the Kings and Hatshepsut Temple
• Tour the iconic temples of Edfu and Kom Ombo
• Explore the Great Pyramids and Sphinx in Giza

“Timing of trip, transfers & tours was very well organized. Felt like I got to see and experience everything I expected in a tour of Egypt.” Kit Koch, traveled in February 2024

• Sail along the Nile and visit the famous Luxor Temple
• Discover the ancient pyramids of Giza and the enigmatic Sphinx
• Explore Alexandria and its remarkable relics and ruins

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Helene in Tennessee live updates: Flood advisory issued in parts of Middle Tennessee

A flood advisory has been issued for parts of Middle Tennessee as the remnants of Tropical Storm Helene brings heavy rainfall into the region Friday. Follow along for live updates here.

As of Friday morning, Helene has made it into southern Georgia, and the initial band of showers has spread almost entirely across Middle Tennessee, said the weather service. Helene is expected to turn northwestward and reach the northern Cumberland Plateau area as a weakening depression Friday afternoon and evening.

As the depression moves toward the plateau area, winds speeds will pick up, reaching gusts as high as 35 mph, said the weather service.

Helene in Tennessee: Track flood warnings, power outages and damage reports due to severe weather

School closures: These Middle Tennessee schools canceled classes Friday due to impact from Helene

How much rain has Nashville received? Rainfall from Helene breaks record

As of 9 a.m. Friday, Nashville International Airport has measured nearly four inches of rain from Helene.

The 3.45 inches of rain breaks the previous daily rainfall record for Sept. 27, which was 1.81" set in 1887, reported the weather service on social media .

Diana Leyva

Officials shut down major Nashville roadways, report wrecks and one critical injury

Wet roads led to messy crashes Friday morning, forcing officials to shut down lanes on all of Nashville’s major thoroughfares. The majority of the crashes were single-vehicle wrecks, according to data from the Tennessee Department of Transportation’s traffic map. 

Crashes were reported as early as 5:30 a.m. as Helene swept through Middle Tennessee. Officials reported one single-vehicle crash on Interstate 24, three wrecks on Interstate 40, two wrecks on Briley Parkway and one on Interstate 65. 

By 9:30 a.m. two crashes remained on Briley Parkway, including one involving a critical injury at McGavock Pike. Crews also shut down portions of I-24 and Interstate 440 for flooding. 

Kirsten Fiscus

Flight cancellations and delays at Nashville International Airport

As of 8:30 a.m. Friday, there are 18 flight cancellations and 36 delays across the state , with more cancellations and delays likely throughout the day.

As of 8:30 a.m, Nashville has four departing flights and seven arriving flights that have been canceled. These flights are from Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines and American Airlines. There are 18 delays from American Airlines, Delta Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines and Frontier Airlines.

Jordan Green

WeGo Star passenger train hits tree on tracks near Hermitage station

A WeGo Star passenger train hit a tree believed to have fallen on the tracks near the Hermitage train station in Davidson County on an inbound trip to Nashville on Friday morning, according to WeGo Public Transit.

No injuries were reported as passengers were being picked up by bus to finish their commute.

The rest of the WeGo Star service for the morning is canceled, WeGo Public Information Officer Eric Melcher said. Train service is expected to run as normal this afternoon.

The Tennessean will provide additional information as details become available.

Andy Humbles

National Weather Service issues flood advisory for Middle Tennessee counties

The weather service has issued a flood advisory for multiple Middle Tennessee counties, due to the excessive rainfall expected.

Davidson, Rutherford, Williamson and Wilson Counties are under a flood advisory until 8:30 a.m. Friday. De Kalb, Smith and Wilson Counties are under a flood advisory until 9:00 a.m. Friday. Coffee, Grundy and Warren Counties are under a flood advisory until 10 a.m. Friday. Bedford, Cannon, Cheatham, Davidson, Rutherford, Sumner, Williamson, and Wilson Counties are under a flood advisory until 12:30 p.m. Friday.

The entire Middle Tennessee region remains under a flood watch until Saturday morning. Total expected rainfall amounts range from two to five inches, said the weather service.

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Downtown St. Petersburg, Jordan Park, Campbell Park, Grand Central Station, Tyrone Gardens Shopping Center, Tyrone Square Mall

Downtown St. Petersburg, Gateway Mall, Koger Office Center, Goodwill Industries, 116 Ave N & 4 St N

34th Street N, PSTA Facility, 28 Street, Gateway Centre Pkwy, Shoppes at Park Place, 28th St. N, 38th Avenue N., Joe's Creek Industrial Park, Grand Central Station, Pinellas Technical Education Center (PTEC), 38th Ave S, Lakewood High School, Skyway Plaza, 62nd Ave S, 25th Way S, Roy Hanna Dr, Pinellas Point Drive S

Downtown St. Petersburg, Bayfront Medical Center Hospital, 18 Ave S, Grand Central Station, Gulfport Blvd, Pasadena Ave, Palms of Pasadena Hospital

Downtown St. Petersburg, 15th Ave S, Gibbs High School, Grand Central Station, Town Shores Apartments, Gulfport Casino

Downtown St. Petersburg, Tropicana Field, 16 St N, Gateway Mall

Park Street Terminal (Downtown Clearwater), Largo Mall, Heritage Apartments, Seminole Mall, Bay Pines VA Medical Center, Tyrone Square Mall, Grand Central Station, Tropicana Field, Downtown St. Petersburg

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Bayonet Point Plaza, Hollywood 18 Theaters, Embassy Crossing,Gulf  View Square Mall, Kmart, Southgate Plaza, Universal Plaza, Holiday Plaza, Tarpon Mall

Tyrone Square Mall, Edward White Hospital, Downtown St. Petersburg, 9 St S/Dr ML King St, Skyway Plaza, Roy Hanna Dr S & 25 Way, Pinellas Point Dr

22nd Ave N, Northwest Community Center, Tyrone Square Mall, and 4th & 22nd Ave

Tyrone Square Mall, Gulfport Casino, Lakeview Shopping Center, 22 Ave S, Downtown St. Petersburg

Downtown St. Petersburg Circulator: Downtown St. Petersburg, Sunshine Senior Center, Mirror Lake Area, St. Anthony's Hospital, John Knox Apartments, Greyhound Bus Terminal, Tropicana Field, Graham Park, Bayfront Medical Center, All Children's Hospital, Suncoast Medical Center, Publix Supermarket

Largo Transit Center, Pinellas Park Transit Center, Shoppes at Park Place, Grand Central Station, Pinellas Technical Education Center (PTEC), Gibbs High School, 46 Ave S & 34 St S, Eckerd College

Downtown St. Petersburg, Beach Dr NE, Northeast Shopping Center, Colony Shopping Center, St. Petersburg Medical Center Hospital, Tyrone Square Mall

Park Street Terminal (Downtown Clearwater), Largo Transit Center, Pinellas Technical Education Center (PTEC), Pinellas County Criminal Justice Center, PSTA Facility, Pinellas Park Transit Center, Shoppes at Park Place, Grand Central Station

Seminole City Center to Gateway Mall

PSTA Facility, Ulmerton Rd/SR 688, ICOT Center, Largo Mall, Walsingham Rd, Indian Rocks Shopping Center, Indian Rocks Beach

Park Street Terminal (Downtown Clearwater), Cleveland St, Gulf-to-Bay Blvd/60, Clearwater Mall, Drew St & Bayview Ave

Indian Rocks Shopping Center, Missouri Ave/Seminole Blvd, Park Street Terminal (Downtown Clearwater), Mease Manor, Main St/580, Palm Lake Village, Westfield Shopping Town

The Shoppes of Boot Ranch, Westfield Shopping Town, 71 St N/Belcher Rd, Tyrone Square Mall

Park Street Terminal (Downtown Clearwater), Morton Plant Hospital, Diagnostic Clinic, Largo Medical Center, Sun Coast Hospital, Indian Rocks Rd, Indian Rocks Shopping Center, Seminole Mall

Tarpon Springs, Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks, Tarpon Mall, Alternate 19, Causeway Plaza, Bayshore Blvd, Main St/580, Mease Manor, Patricia/Highland Ave, Sunset Point Rd, Coachman Fundamental Middle School, Park Street Terminal (Downtown Clearwater), Morton Plant Hospital

Park Street Terminal (Downtown Clearwater), Drew St, Hercules Ave, Westfield Shopping Town Countryside, Enterprise Rd, McMullen Booth Rd/611, SR 580, Tampa Rd/584, Oldsmar City Hall, Downtown Oldsmar, Nielsen Media Research

Tyrone Square Mall, Tyrone Blvd, Bay Pines VA Medical Center, Bay Pines VA Regional Office, Maderia Beach Shopping Center, Gulf Blvd, John's Pass Village

Tyrone Square Mall, 66 St N, 46 Ave N, Park St, Starkey Rd, Keene Rd, Highland Ave, Park Street Terminal (Downtown Clearwater)

Gateway Mall, Gandy Blvd, Pinellas Park Transit Center, Shoppes at Park Place, Park Plaza, Park 66 Shopping Center, Lake Seminole Park, Park Blvd/74 Ave N, Seminole Mall

Gateway Mall, Shoppes at Park Place, US 19/34 St N, 54th Ave N, Five Towns, Park Street, 22nd Ave N, Tyrone Square Mall

Park Street Terminal (Downtown Clearwater), Cleveland St, St. Petersburg College, On Top of the World East & West, Belcher Rd, Westfield Shopping Town

Park Street Terminal (Downtown Clearwater), Clear Bay Terrace Apartments, Dunedin City Hall, Mease Dunedin Hosptial, Mease Manor, Main St/580, Westfield Shopping Town

US 19 Frontage Rd, Whitney Rd, 58th St, Ulmerton Rd/SR 688, 66 St N, Park 66 Shopping Center, Tyrone Square Mall, St. Petersburg College, Lutheran Residences, Bethany Towers, Pasadena Shopping Center, Gulfport Blvd/22 Ave S, 5 Ave S, Grand Central Station, Downtown St. Petersburg

Commuter Service: Grand Central Station, Palm View Apartments, The Woods Apartments, Don CeSar Beach Resort, Tradewinds Resort, St. Pete Beach

Express Service (St. Petersburg to Tampa): Gateway Mall, Britton Plaza Station, Marion Transit Center (Downtown Tampa)

Desoto Station, Downtown Bradenton, Palmetto Station, Pinellas County, Grand Central Terminal, Tyrone Square Mall, Bay Pines VA Hospital

Express Service - Limited Stops Only (Largo to Tampa): Ulmerton Park N Ride, Ulmerton Rd, Tampa St, Pierce St & Whiting St, Marion Transit Center (Downtown Tampa)

Westfield Countryside, Shoppes at Boot Ranch, HART Northwest Transfer Center

Will now run only between downtown St. Petersburg and grand Central Station.

Mon.–Sun.: The Pier, Museum of History/Dolphin Parking, Renaissance Vinoy Resort, Museum of Fine Arts/Beach Dr., BayWalk, St. Petersburg College, Courtyard Marriott, Open Air Post Office, Florida Holocaust Museum, USF St. Petersburg, Dali Museum, Hilton St. Petersburg, Hampton Inn & Suites, Chamber Visitor Center/BayWalk, Pelican Parking, Cross Bay Ferry at Port St. Pete. Fri. & Sat. Nights: The Pier, Museum of History/Pier Parking, Renaissance Vinoy Resort, Museum of Fine Arts/Beach Dr., BayWalk, USF St. Petersburg Residence Hall, Hilton St. Petersburg, Hampton Inn & Suites, Chamber Visitor Center/BayWalk, Pelican Parking, Cross Bay Ferry at Port St. Pete. *Service funded in part by PSTA but operated by our partners.

Connecting Service at Shoppes of Boot Ranch or Tarpon and Huey Avenues in Tarpon Springs.

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St. Petersburg, Russia

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St. Petersburg was never intended to be Russian at all. Rather, it was founded to exemplify Peter the Great's vision for Russia, which was "Western." Built on marshland with slave labor, Peter the Great, one of Russia's emperors, established St. Petersburg city as the new capital of Russia. You may see the city referred to as St. Petersburg, Saint Petersburg, Sankt-Peterburg, or Petersburg.

St. Petersburg, Leningrad, Petrograd

From 1914-1924, Petersburg was known as "Petrograd." Then the name became "Leningrad" and stayed that way until 1991 in honor of the Soviet leader Lenin. Some individuals who haven't kept up with their current events (for the past two decades) may still call St. Petersburg by one of its former names. But St. Petersburg is St. Petersburg now, just as it was in Peter the Great's time.

St. Petersburg is often called "Petersburg" or simply "Peter" for short.

St. Petersburg was built on the Neva River in Russia on the Baltic Sea. It has about 4 and a half million inhabitants. Due to the age and beauty of St. Peterburg's city center, it has been named a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO World Heritage site committee.

You can expect St. Petersburg to be warm and pleasant during high summer, which occurs in June and July. Temperatures begin cooling in late August. Winters, starting in November, can last until April. While cold, St. Petersburg is beautiful in the winter - the Neva freezes and snow falls predictably throughout most of the winter months. St. Petersburg weather, however, can be unpredictable, so check weather forecasts in advance of your trip.

Getting To and Getting Around

St. Petersburg, Russia can be gotten to by train or plane from Moscow or other parts of Russia, and a ferry is available from Tallinn. While in St. Petersburg, it's possible to use the tram/trolley system or the St. Petersburg metro. Of course, really seeing St. Petersburg involves hoofing it.

Attractions

What's not attractive about St. Petersburg, Russia? Whether you're catching a glimpse of the Church of the Spilt Blood over the St. Petersburg rooftops, visiting the Hermitage Museum, or strolling through the streets, you'll also get your fill of gorgeous, decorated bridges, monuments that are the stuff of legend, and the buildings that once housed Russia's nobility.

Day Trips from St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg is situated in such a way that visitors find day trips easy to take. Go to Vyborg, Catherine's Palace, Kizhi Island , or Peterhof .

St. Petersburg Hotels

St. Petersburg hotels range from the budget friendly to the luxurious. Shop around for the best hotel deals, which will be harder to come by during the tourist season. Also take into consideration the location of your hotel to make seeing the sights more convenient.

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