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Middle East Tours & Vacations

The Middle East is living, breathing proof of an old maxim: you don’t know, until you go. 

Forget the headlines and the hyperbole; this is the cradle of civilizations, an ancient land emerging as a modern power, with the money, culture and panache to back it up. Ride camels with Bedouin tribespeople across the dunes of the Sahara, haggle for gold in the souqs of downtown Amman, marvel at the Blue Mosque on a Turkey trip , cruise the Nile beneath the white sail of a felucca or float forever in the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea. Wherever you go, three things will follow: the faint scent of cloves and camel, the echoing call to prayer and the smiles of people that call this place home. 

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36 Best places to visit in the Middle East in 2024

By Joan Torres 90 Comments Last updated on April 5, 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.

May 29th to June 5th, 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.

May 19th to 26th, 2024

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

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.

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

Remember to get travel insurance for 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

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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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:.

UNIVERSAL TRAVEL ADAPTER

GET A GUIDEBOOK

REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE

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).

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.

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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…

All that glitters is gold (and occasionally silver) along this covered arcade where dozens of shops overflow with every kind of jewelry imaginable, from…

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…

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Middle East Tours & Trips

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

My wife and I went on a 17-day tour of Israel, Jordan, and Egypt. The tour was well orchestrated. All the details of getting into and out of countries were handled professionally and with little cause of concern to us. Hand-offs between countries went well. We were guided by knowledgable people who had our best interests at heart (with possibly one exception).The only real complaint I have is that TourRadar turned out to be more of a facilitator than a tour agency with its own guides. I was confused when we got to Israel and found that neither TourRadar nor Click Tours (which answered my online questions) was the agency actually leading the tours. Not knowing that we would be connecting with Consolidated Tour Operators (CTO) led to some initial confusion in the Tel Aviv airport. Expecting to be linked up with Click Tours and knowing nothing about CTO, we missed connecting with the airport facilitator in Tel Aviv for nearly an hour while each of tried to find the other. If I had been told to look for a CTO representative, our stressful introduction to the tour would have gone much more smoothly. In Israel and Jordan, CTO handled our tour. In Egypt, the agency was Sylvia. I had expected to be part of a group that held together for the entire 17 days, but that wasn't the case. Groups formed and disbanded based on what individuals planned to visit. In Israel there were 11 of us, and we bonded quickly. In Jordan I was surprised that our group dwindled to five. And in Egypt there was only my wife and me. That left us vulnerable in Egypt to the care of our guide, who, because there was just the two of us, managed to fleece us of $150. I would never have signed up with TourRadar if I had understood that my wife and I would be left alone at one point without the safety of a group and unprepared to deal with a guide we didn't fully trust.

Highlights of the Holy Land Israel & Jordan & Cairo Tour - 13 Days

Arrival at Tel Aviv was not as expected. I have to wait more than 30 min for the guide showing my name. They didn´t answer phne, but after 35 min I received a call. Transfer to Jordan and Egypt borders was well organized.

Egypt Explorer - Felucca cruise & Red Sea

Highly recommended tour, our tour guide Nabil was very professional and thoroughly explained everything to the tiniest detail. Thank you, definitely an experience I will treasure forever :)

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• River Cruise

Best Of Egypt - 5* Cruise

Good Experience, fun with everything

• Coach / Bus

Israel, Jordan and Egypt 10 days

My guide in Egypt Kimo Azuvietsh and driver Fayez were excellent. Their professionalism and regard for human decency, was beyond my expectation. My driver and Tour guide acted in just about every conceivable way to accommodate me during the tour. For example: when my hotel room water and Air Conditioner was not working. They reiterated to the hotel officials the importance, of getting these issues addressed in a timely manner or to moved Mr. Wess as previously requested to another room in their native language.

Absolute Turkey

tour was fine food soso im american so not much choices hotels were ok tour guide was great

Queen Cleopatra - 7 days

Queen Cleopatras is a great tour, highly recommended, Anas is a great guide, he explained everything about Egyptian culture and toke care about our group! I will recommend to head office to deliver schedules with the tours to be able to plan our days. Cruse was amazing, service is great and everyone is very friendly! Also there is laundry available at your room! Ruby II is a great option, the room is very nice! I won’t recommend to take the train from Cairo to Aswan, service is great but services are not good (very old and dirty), washrooms very dirty!

10-Day Ancient Egypt Tour (Superior Hotels)

ACCOMMODATION MEALS GUIDE My recent Egypt trip with Vacations To Go Travel was truly unforgettable! Just like my travel companion, I thoroughly enjoyed every moment. Bassem, our guide, was exceptional, and the Nile cruise was a highlight. Despite the early start for day tours, especially during Ramadan when days were shorter, I didn't regret traveling during that month. Ramadan turned out to be a wonderful experience! The hotel in Cairo provided iftar arrangements at sunset, and it was heartwarming to see locals joining in. The decorations for this holy month, both at the hotel and in the streets, added a special touch to our stay, particularly in Luxor and Aswan. Exploring the local culture and observing the deep connection the Egyptian people have to their religion, beliefs, and traditions was a highlight for me. Their kindness and friendliness were truly remarkable. I also loved the concept of free food on tables in the streets across every city in Egypt—it's a beautiful display of community spirit. I can't wait to return and explore more. Thank you, Vacations To Go Travel, for an incredible journey! - Aliyah

Magic of Egypt (with free All inclusive upgrade hurghada hotel) 12 Days

Good Logistically very well managed There was always a guide with you each step of the way Very safe Transportation well managed Recommended Some Considerations Nile river cruise - would have been good to have one of the cruise ships with balcony to fully enjoy it but the rooms were very spacious For some strange reason, they were very inflexible with meal times. Dinner would only start at 8pm. Everyone in the group wanted to have earlier meals especially on days with very early 3 / 4 am wake up times

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

9 Days Nile Jewel (Cairo, Cruise, Hurghada) Superior hotels

What an amazing adventure! It totally exceeded my expectations. Our guide was outstanding, and experiencing the beauty of ancient Egypt and the warmth of its people was unforgettable.

Premium Turkey in Depth

Our guide Fatih Devel and our van driver Mustafa Bostan were exceptional. As individuals or as a team they come highly recommened and I wouldnt hesitate to tell people to make a personal request for their services. Fatih's passion, knowledge and genuine love of his country took us to a whole level we didnt expect to experience. A once in a lifetime experience. One of the safest, friendliest places I have ever travelled. Book now. It will be worth it. Thank you Fatih and Mustafa for going beyond the call of duty and responsibility. You were both the real Trasures of Turkey for us.

Essential Egypt (5 Star Hotels)

The whole tour was very well organised. Our guide Mo was very knowledgeable and passionate about the places we went to see. He knew all the tips and tricks to miss the crowds and how to deal with the locals trying to sell us their wares at each of the temples, even giving tips on how to barter and how much to pay. He was also very efficient at keeping us all on time and making sure that time wasn't wasted by waiting for people to get back to the coach. The tour ticked off all the places we wanted to see and in our case my husband wanted to also see the Bent and Red pyramids - Bishoo from TravelTalk dealt with all the arrangements to make sure he got to visit them on our last day. This was our first time doing a tour and it was a very positive experience, As a result we will be looking at what other tours TravelTalk run around the world for future trips. Can highly recommend this tour for discovering Essential Egypt and especially TravelTalk.

• €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Felucca Odyssey (5 & 4 Star Hotels)

I liked Mo a lot, and his talks at the sites and on the bus were both interesting and balanced in content and in length. I know that a lot of tourists don't really care for any in-depth discussion of what they are seeing, but Mo was able to answer many of my harder questions with good educated answers. Likewise, he was very efficient in his use of time on the bus and at the sites. I felt that the trip was well constructed and managed, and I rarely had to clarify about our arrangements. He did a good job of telling us ahead of time what to expect. Perhaps one of the most crucial arrangements that Mo managed was the seamless embarkation/disembarkation of the sleeper trains in Cairo, Aswan and Luxor. There is a LOT going on with that, and I was impressed how he managed to keep all 30+ of us on-target in a busy and chaotic environment. No bags or people were lost! Another case that sticks out is his handling of the myriad of different tour packages, transfers, and hotel arrangements that occurred. I understand that this is all “part of the job”, but I nevertheless think it is a very important part of what makes a good tour guide. Mo handled this very nicely. Yes, I would travel with Mo again, and that's the substance of a good review I think! Thaddeus

Pharaohs Nile Cruise Adventure - Return Flights Included

This 'Beyond The Nile' tour was superb! I couldn't have enjoyed it more: Easy to book online, with optional 'add ons' that I was glad not to miss... Everyone so organized, professional and knowlegable.. Would love to come back to Egypt with friends & family using this tour company again next year...

Goddess Hathor - 8 Days (5 stars)

Tour was really nice.

What people love about Middle East Tours

My wife and I went on a 17-day tour of Israel, Jordan, and Egypt. The tour was well orchestrated. All the details of getting into and out of countries were handled professionally and with little cause of concern to us. Hand-offs between countries went well. We were guided by knowledgable people who had our best interests at heart (with possibly one exception).The only real complaint I have is that TourRadar turned out to be more of a facilitator than a tour agency with its own guides. I was confused when we got to Israel and found that neither TourRadar nor Click Tours (which answered my online questions) was the agency actually leading the tours. Not knowing that we would be connecting with Consolidated Tour Operators (CTO) led to some initial confusion in the Tel Aviv airport. Expecting to be linked up with Click Tours and knowing nothing about CTO, we missed connecting with the airport facilitator in Tel Aviv for nearly an hour while each of tried to find the other. If I had been told to look for a CTO representative, our stressful introduction to the tour would have gone much more smoothly. In Israel and Jordan, CTO handled our tour. In Egypt, the agency was Sylvia. I had expected to be part of a group that held together for the entire 17 days, but that wasn't the case. Groups formed and disbanded based on what individuals planned to visit. In Israel there were 11 of us, and we bonded quickly. In Jordan I was surprised that our group dwindled to five. And in Egypt there was only my wife and me. That left us vulnerable in Egypt to the care of our guide, who, because there was just the two of us, managed to fleece us of $150. I would never have signed up with TourRadar if I had understood that my wife and I would be left alone at one point without the safety of a group and unprepared to deal with a guide we didn't fully trust.

Mina was the best & made the trip so much more engaging & fun. He was a wonderful guide who went above and beyond & made sure everyone was having a good time, which I appreciated because this was my first time traveling abroad by myself. When we were in Luxor, he squeezed in some extra time so I could get a cartouche necklace made. He didn’t have to do it, but he did it anyway! I miss our group so much, love you Flafel!

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Middle East

The Middle East is a region steeped in history and brimming with unmatched beauty. From the ancient city of Petra in Jordan to the opulence of the cities in the United Arab Emirates, the Middle East offers a rich tapestry of the traditional and the ultra-modern.

View our travel guides and explore what makes the Middle East an essential destination for any budding explorer.

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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!

Travel Tips For Israel

Jordan travel advice, turkish cuisine, 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

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

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

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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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

OTHER GREAT ARTICLES ABOUT BACKPACKING THE WORLD

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• 5 Essential Routes for Backpacking the World and Visiting Every Continent
• The Balkan Walk: The Perfect Backpacking Itinerary for the Balkans
• 3 Months in Southeast Asia: A Perfect Plan for the the “Banana Pancake Trail”
• The Mini Backpacking Trails: 15 Itineraries Aroudn the World for 2 Weeks or Less

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.

Middle East Travel Guide: The Home of Hospitality

Explore beautiful landscapes, ancient ruins, and the mesmerizing culture of the middle east, backpacking in the home of hospitality.

With countless enchanting locations, the Middle East is the land of the most hospitable people. Different civilizations and cultures have developed from the Middle East. There are numerous ruins of ancient buildings, historical sights, tombs, and temples in the Middle East that are worth exploring. Through our Middle East Travel Guide, we will walk you through the most popular countries to visit , the best things to do and important things to know while in Middle Eastern countries. We will also delve into the best time to travel to the Middle East and other interesting facts!

There are 18 countries in the Middle East with one external and internal dependencies, two disputed regions, and two UN Buffer Zones. When it comes to the preservation of history and wildlife, the Middle East has numerous locations.

There are 100 World Heritage Sites of UNESCO and several national parks . There are two national parks in Iraq, four in Lebanon, three in Saudi Arabia, four in the UAE, and many more in other countries. You could visit Masada National Park and  Ein Gedi in Israel, Mangrove National Park (Abu Dubai), the White Desert National Park, and the Ras Mohammed National Park in Egypt. The official languages include Arabic, Greek, Hebrew, English, Kurdish, Persian, and Turkish.

There are a plethora of places you can explore in the Middle East. You can explore historical sites in Cairo , Esfahan, Istanbul, Jerusalem, and Beirut. Cairo, Tehran, Riyadh, Istanbul, and Baghdad are some of the largest cities worth visiting in the Middle East. 

There are famous rivers like the Nile River and the Euphrates that flow through the countries. The Sahara desert is yet another attraction of the Middle East. Empty Quarters and Peerless Wadi Rum are other spots in the Middle East. You can explore the Byzantine and the Ottoman Relics in Istanbul. You can be mesmerized by the caves, beaches, and ruins in Lebanon. Apart from these locations that emphasize history, you can explore the world's largest skyscraper in Dubai as well.

Featured Middle East Destinations

Popular countries to visit in the middle east by region.

The Arabian Peninsula

Located on the Arabian Plate of North-East Africa, the Arabian Peninsula  (Arabia) is a region that offers meticulous hospitality and the largest region in the world without a river. It is also a land of rich culture and heritage. Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Yemen, and the Southern part of Iraq and Jordan (including Petra and Wadi Rum) are popular Arab countries worth visiting in the Arabian Peninsula. They are famous for their desserts and urban landscape as well. These countries have a Muslim majority, and the most common language is Arabic. 

Egypt is a land with a rich history that points back to the ancient Egyptian civilization . There are numerous historical sites with temples, pyramids, and mummies in Egypt. Cairo , the capital of Egypt, has the Giza Pyramid and the Egyptian Museum , depicting Islamic architecture.  Hurghada is a location near the Red Sea with several resorts and water sport activities. Luxor is an old city with a plethora of relics pointing back to the rich history of Egypt. Aswan, Alexandra, and Port Said are other places worth visiting in Egypt. You can also come to know about Jewish and Christian history as well from Egypt.

Turkey is an enchanting land that can walk you down the aisle of dreams. With hot air balloons , cupolas, bell towers, thermal hot springs, sun-kissed beaches, ruins, and other landscapes, Turkey is a hotspot for travelers. Istanbul is a city renowned for its rich culture and museums like the Hagia Sophia . You can also visit Izmir to learn about authentic customs and cuisines. Antalya is a destination with turquoise beaches and cliffs. Pamukkale is yet another destination in Turkey and is famously known as "the cotton castle." You can travel to Turkey anytime around the year.

Fertile Crescent

It is a region shaped like a crescent in the Middle East . It includes parts of Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine, Israel , Iraq, and Syria . It has the southeast regions of Turkey as well as the Western fringes of Iran . There are countless historical places along with beaches and other scenic destinations in the Middle Eastern Fertile Crescent.

Iran (Iranian Plateau)

Iran has a plethora of monuments embracing the magnificence of Islamic architecture. There are numerous ancient cities, museums, palaces, tombs, and Armenian churches in Iran.  The Iranian Plateau is also famously known as the Persian Plateau . You can visit the Domes and Merates of Esfahan's Naqsh-e Jahan Square while in Iran. You can also have a great time at the gardens, bridges, and other palaces during your vacation in the Middle East.

Abu Dhabi, UAE

Israel, Middle East

Best time to visit The Middle East

The best time to visit the Middle East is either during the Spring or Autumn season. It is suitable to go on hikes and also to visit ancient sites. The climate is warm and dry. During the summer season, the temperature would be around 40 degrees Celsius. The chances of crowding are high, and prices at beach resorts could be soaring high. The winter season is much better as it is chilly with sprouts of rainfall. It is also the best time to visit Bethlehem. 

Things to know before you travel to The Middle East

Is it safe to travel to Middle Eastern countries?

Safety in the Middle East depends upon the place you are visiting. Although there are many dangerous places, you can have a safe trip if you travel with caution. Certain parts of Syria, Israel, Lebanon, the Palestinian territories, and the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt are prone to terrorist attacks . You can avoid these regions while visiting the Middle East. Road accidents, political demonstrations, pickpocketing, and petty crimes are other main problems confronted by travelers in the Middle Eastern countries. However, some places in the Middle East are pretty safe. For instance, Turkey is a safe country for travelers .

Currency in The Middle East

In most places in the Middle East, they accept the US dollar . You can always exchange your money from airports, banks, or other exchange centers. There is a fixed exchange rate system in countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Lebanon. In Lebanon, the US dollar has greater acceptance. You can always withdraw money from ATMs by using your debit or credit cards. Lebanon, Israel, Palestinian territories, Egypt, Jordan, and the Gulf countries accept almost all the international cards. However, Iraq does not take any international cards. So, you would have to exchange your money for the local currency. The official currency of Bahrain is Bahrain Dinar, Qatar is Qatari Riyal, Turkey is Turkish Lira, and Egypt is Egyptian Pounds.

Tipping in The Middle East is encouraged in most places

In most countries in the Middle East, tipping is appreciated . The alternative name for tipping is Baksheesh . As salaries are pretty low in most places, tips can assist service providers. Most top restaurants and hotels in Turkey, Lebanon, Israel, and Palestinian territories accept tips. However, the service providers add a 10 to 15% additional charge to the final bill in some restaurants. In the Arabian Peninsula, tipping is not mandatory . You can round up the bill or provide 10% of the bill as a tip to the person if you find their services excellent. In Jordan, tipping is uncommon. 

Sustainable Tourism in The Middle East

Climate change and industrialization are two main problems confronted in the Middle Eastern countries. However, many countries are taking initiatives to reduce environmental degradation. There are numerous eco-tourism destinations in the UAE, Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt, Tunisia, and Oman. Overtourism is an issue faced by many regions in the Middle East. You can help in rebuilding the ecosystem by traveling sustainably and responsibly.

Vaccinations to be taken while traveling to The Middle East

The WHO and CDC recommend travelers take their routine vaccines for Measles, Chicken Pox, DTP, Fly, Mumps, and Polio . Most travelers have to get vaccinations for Hepatitis A and Typhoid as well. Hepatitis B, Rabies, and Yellow Fever vaccinations are other vaccines some travelers have to take. Vaccinations also depend upon the country you are coming from and the places you are planning to visit.

Visa while traveling to The Middle East

Visa requirements vary from one country to another in the Middle East . It depends on your native country, the country you are planning to visit, and how long you plan to stay. For instance, if you are traveling to the UAE, you need to get a visa beforehand. However, travelers from some countries do not require a visa. For Egypt, one can get a tourist visa for 90 days, which you can not extend. Each country in the Middle East has its regulations for visas. Visiting the official website of immigration would help you get a clear picture.

Things to do in The Middle East to cross off your bucket list

Tel Aviv City Trip

Located in Israel, Tel Aviv City in Hebrew means the "Hill of Spring." It has numerous beaches that attract a lot of travelers every year. Metzitzim beach is one of the famous beaches in Tel Aviv City. Apart from the beaches, you can enjoy the mesmerizing views that the city has to offer. Tel Aviv City is also famous for its colorful nightlife . Countless parties are happening every night. 

Several international DJs conduct programs in underground clubs and other places. Tel Aviv City offers an extravaganza for our taste buds as well. Shawarma, Hummus, Falafel, and Shakshuka are some dishes you can have in Tel Aviv City.

Visit the Gaza Border

Gaza is a location where frequent conflicts happen. Though Gaza itself is not a tourist destination, the Gaza border is a place worth visiting. From Israel, you can visit the Gaza strip on an organized ' Gaza Border Reality Tour ' to learn more about the Gaza-Israel conflict and the people's daily life in the shade of the wall. On this tour, you will also visit the 'Path to Peace' project

It might not be the first thing on your mind when you travel to Israel, but it’s an impressive and unique thing to do in Israel.

Floating in the Dead Sea

Located in Israel, the Dead Sea is 434m below sea level. It is the lowest place on Earth. The region has a turquoise lake, historical sites, oases, and a variety of rare animals. The air is oxygen-rich, and its mineral water seems to have healing powers. You can gain health benefits by spreading mineral-rich mud on your body.

You can easily float in the water because of its high salination . However, you have to be careful while swimming in the Dead Sea. Freestyle swimmers can wear Goggles while swimming. You can take a great picture of yourself floating in the water by reading a newspaper or book as well!

World Wonder Petra in Jordan

It is an ancient city and is also one of the most famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites . Located in Southern Jordan, Petra is an archaeological site known as the Rose Red City. It was the capital of the Nabataean Empire in the past. 

Petra is one of the seven wonders of the world as well. You can enter the city through a narrow canyon known as the Siq . You can view the buildings carved in caves as you get into Petra. They are called the Treasury . Past the Treasury, you can see the High Place of Sacrifice , the Royal Tomb , and the Monastery . The best way to explore Petra is on foot and hiking some of the trails. I don't recommend riding a donkey. For disabled people, electric buggies are available.

Dubai Skyscrapers

Being one of the largest cities in the UAE, Dubai has several high risers and other attractions. Around 108 skyscrapers are about 180 m tall. The tallest building is the Burj Khalifa , which is 828 m and has 209 floors. It is also the tallest man-made structure in the world. Burj Khalifa has three different observation decks on three floors. The best time to visit the Burj Khalifa is between three to six pm in the evening. The Marina 101 is the second tallest residential building, which is 425 m tall. Most buildings reach above the clouds as well.

Wadi Rum in Jordan

Wadi Rum is a valley surrounded by sandstone mountains and granite rock formations with amazing desert scenes. It's also called Valley of the Moon! Wadi Rum Protected Area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers numerous adventures and excitement to its visitors. You can go walking, camping, skydiving, stargazing, and hiking. In the top region, it offers an excellent view of the Wadi Rum Mountains . The spectacular and beautiful red desert area has also been used as a background setting in many films, such as Lawrence of Arabia, Transformers, The Martian, Aladdin, and Star Wars. Consider sleeping in a sustainable Bedouin camp or opt for a more Luxury Bubble tent to stargaze from your bed.

Jerusalem in Israel

Being the city of tradition and history, Jerusalem is a land that can take you back to the olden days. Jerusalem is not just a place suited for religious pilgrimages. It is a center of culture and heritage as well. You can go shopping in the old markets of Mahane Yehuda Market . You can also visit the Jewish-Jerusalem neighborhood, enjoy both the old and new city life. Other places to visit in Jerusalem are the Jaffa Road and the Temple Mount , which is the Symbol of Jerusalem. You can always browse back to our The Middle East Travel Guide before traveling to the Middle Eastern countries in case of any clarifications.

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Travel to Greece and immerse yourself in the ancient wonders of Athens, where iconic sites like the Acropolis and the Parthenon stand as testaments to the country’s storied past. Explore the ruins of Delphi, once believed to be the center of the world, and unravel the mysteries of the Oracle.

Discover the birthplace of the Olympic Games in Olympia, where history comes alive amidst ancient stadiums and temples. But Greece is more than just its historical treasures. Indulge in the blissful island life as you hop from one stunning Greek Island to another. Lounge on the sun-kissed beaches of Santorini, with its whitewashed houses perched atop dramatic cliffs.

Explore the vibrant nightlife of Mykonos, where parties last until dawn. Get lost in the charm of Rhodes’ medieval Old Town or discover the hidden gems of lesser-known islands like Milos and Paros.

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Explore The Middle East with Ease

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As travelers increasingly seek out unique and unforgettable experiences, the Middle East has become one of the hottest regions to explore. While the possibility of visiting multiple Middle Eastern countries has become increasingly accessible, arranging such an itinerary can be an overwhelming and complex process.

Fortunately, the Middle East Travel Alliance is here to help. We provide a comprehensive overview of the Middle East without getting bogged down in excessive details. We specialize in crafting customized itineraries, no matter how intricate, and will take care of all the logistics, from start to finish. Our goal is to alleviate the stress associated with planning these tours and provide you with the peace of mind that everything will be handled seamlessly.

​Simply put we are your One-Stop-Shop for everything Middle East!

Simplifying Middle East Travel

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In this engaging series will delve into key insights and innovative solutions that aim to enhance travel experiences in the region. With the expertise and industry knowledge of our DMC members we are set to lead thought-provoking sessions, providing valuable perspectives to the travel community. Check out our Webinar recording and feel free to join us on upcoming sessions.

Discover the Middle East with assurance of a associate member of USTOA – your gateway to trusted and exceptional travel experiences. With our USTOA affiliation, explore the region's captivating wonders, vibrant cultures, and rich history while enjoying the highest standards of quality, expertise, and security. Your client's journey through the Middle East is backed by credibility and excellence.

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Information for U.S. Citizens in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza

The Department reminds U.S. citizens of the continued need for caution and increased personal security awareness as security incidents often take place without warning. The security environment remains complex and can change quickly depending on the political situation and recent events. Please see the latest Israel Security Alert .

U.S. citizens should heed the  Travel Advisory  for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. The U.S. Embassy continues to closely monitor the dynamic security situation in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. There are active military operations and active rocket and mortar fire in Gaza and the Gaza periphery.  Terrorist groups, lone-actor terrorists and other violent extremists continue plotting possible attacks in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. Terrorists and violent extremists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities. Violence can occur in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza without warning. If you require emergency assistance while in Israel, the West Bank or Gaza, contact the  U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem  by email ([email protected]).

Individuals seeking to depart Gaza  through the Rafah crossing into Egypt should monitor the  Palestinian General Authority for Crossings and Borders’ Facebook Page  for a list of those approved to cross. U.S. citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents, or immediate family (as listed below) who desire our assistance and have not already provided their information to the Department of State, please email U.S. Embassy Jerusalem at  [email protected]  with a copy of the individual’s travel document as well as an explanation or proof of relationship.

The U.S. government does not control the crossing lists nor determine who is permitted to depart Gaza or enter Egypt. Individuals must assess their own safety and risks in attempting to cross the border. Individuals permitted to enter Egypt will likely receive a 72-hour Egyptian visa; all those who cross should have a plan for onward travel from Egypt in this timeframe. U.S. citizens, LPRs and their immediate family members who successfully enter Egypt and require further consular assistance should contact the  U.S. Embassy in Cairo  via the  U.S. Citizens Services Navigator .  Individuals may apply for a U.S. visa at any U.S. Embassy or Consulate; U.S. immigration laws and regulations will apply.

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Middle East: Is it safe to travel to holiday destinations as tension escalates?

Are you going to Turkey, Egypt or Israel on holiday? The Foreign Office has warned travellers to several countries to monitor advice after an Iranian attack on Israel pushed tension in the Middle East up another notch.

Thursday 18 April 2024 08:13, UK

Tension in the Middle East has ratcheted up again after Iran's attack on Israel, as the world waits to see how Benjamin Netanyahu's government will respond. 

With the threat of widening conflict, people due to travel through or over the Middle East may be asking if their plans may be impacted.

On Saturday, flight data showed dozens of journeys that would have travelled over the Middle East turned back after Iran fired more than 300 drones and missiles into Israel .

Here is what airlines are saying and the latest safety advice to travellers.

EasyJet scraps Tel Aviv flights

EasyJet has suspended all flights to Tel Aviv over safety concerns.

The budget airline told Sky News it has grounded its flights until 27 October at the earliest "as a result of the continued evolving situation" in the region.

Wizz Air customers could see schedule changes

Wizz Air cancelled flights to Tel Aviv on Sunday 14 and Monday 15 April before resuming its schedule.

But it said customers could experience schedule changes as it closely monitors the situation.

British Airways operating as normal

British Airways - which operates four daily return flights per week between Heathrow and Tel Aviv - said its flights were continuing to operate as planned, but it too was monitoring the situation.

Is it safe to travel to Turkey?

Turkey is a popular holiday destination for people from the UK with the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism saying that last year 3.16 million Britons made the journey there, according to Travel Weekly.

Yet, it borders a number of countries that the Foreign Office advises against travel to.

The vast majority of the country is considered generally safe for tourists, with some exceptions.

The Foreign Office advises against all travel within 10km of the border with Syria , and all but essential travel to the Sirnak and Hakkari provinces.

Is it safe to travel to Israel?

Some parts of Israel are considered "red zones" by the Foreign Office, with the government advising against all travel there.

For the rest of the country - including East Jerusalem and Tel Aviv - the advice is to travel only if it is essential.

Tourist Israel says around 220,000 Britons usually go to the country every year and the Foreign Office is advising against travel close to the border with Gaza, within 5km of the border with Lebanon and within 500m of the border with Syria.

You can see the full updated list of "red zones" on the Foreign Office advice pages.

Occupied Palestinian territories

The Foreign Office advises against all travel to Gaza and the West Bank.

Don't travel to Iran, Iraq, Yemen, Lebanon or Syria - Foreign Office

The Foreign Office advises against all travel to Iran, Syria, Lebanon and Yemen.

It advises against all travel to Iraq except to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI), where it advises against all but "essential travel".

Can I safely go on holiday in Egypt?

The main tourist areas in Egypt are generally considered safe, including the capital Cairo, cities along the Nile and Red Sea resorts.

Over 1.5 million British Nationals visit Egypt every year, according to analysts Gitnux, and the areas the Foreign Office warns not to travel to include the Governorate of North Sinai, where the Rafah crossing to Gaza is located, and within 20km of the border with Libya.

Read more: Are we heading for World War Three? Experts give their verdicts What are Iran's military capabilities - and where could it strike?

Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News

Check advice on other Middle East states before you travel

Following Iran's attack on Israel, the Foreign Office issued a warning relating to several countries in the surrounding area, telling travellers to check for the latest information.

Included in this are popular destinations like Dubai (visited by more than a million Britons last year according to Travel Weekly) and Marrakech.

"On 13 April 2024 Iran carried out military action against Israel. Monitor this travel advice and other media as the situation is changing fast," the FCDO said in a statement.

The countries covered by the warning include Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Morocco, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Bahrain, Kuwait, Libya, Jordan and Oman.

Anywhere else of concern?

Cyprus is near the region and has a large UK airbase but, as yet, there is no change in travel advice to the popular country.

Related Topics

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• Middle East

9 Things to See in Moscow's Red Square

 Sir Francis Canker/Getty Images

In most cases, you'll be entering Red Square from the north, passing landmarks such as the Bolshoi Theatre and Duma parliament building as you make your way southward. Although you don't necessarily have to pass through the Voskresensky (or Resurrection in English) Gates in order to gain access to the square these days, they definitely provide a sense of arrival, to say nothing of the way their left arch frame's St. Basil's Cathedral if you look from just the right angle.

An interesting fact is that while a gate of some kind has stood here since the mid-16th century, the one you currently see wasn't built until 1994, having been destroyed in 1931 so that tanks could enter and exit Red Square during military parades.

St. Basil's Cathedral

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson 

Few sights are as iconic not only of Moscow and Red Square but indeed of Russia than St. Basil's Cathedral, whose colorful, onion-shaped domes are a symbol of the country around the world. Officially known as the Cathedral of Vasily the Blessed, this church has stood since 1561, which is quite miraculous when you consider all the turbulent history that has transpired since then.

Among other things, religion was severely prohibited during the Soviet period , which led some to believe that this emblem of the Russian Orthodox church might not withstand the tenure of the USSR. 

An interesting fact is that St. Basil's is the so-called "Kilometer Zero" of Russia; all of Moscow's main roads (which can take you anywhere in Russia) begin at the exits to Red Square. In this way, St. Basil's iconic status also has an extremely tangible element.

The Kremlin

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

When you think of The Kremlin, it's unlikely that positive images enter your mind. The fact that simply saying the word "Kremlin" is too vague a descriptor (most Russian cities have their own Kremlin complexes; you should say "Moscow Kremlin") notwithstanding, this misunderstood place is incredibly beautiful, even if you don't like the policy that comes out of it.

Senate Square

In spite of its name, which refers to the role the building that rises above the square played during Imperial Russia, Senate Square is actually home to Russia's presidential administration, currently helmed by Vladimir Putin. In order to see where Russia's legislature operates from, walk just outside Red Square to the Duma parliament building.

Dormition Cathedral

Dating back to the year 1479, the gold-domed Dormition Cathedral pays homage to an Orthodox religious feast that commemorates the death of the Virgin Mary . As is the case with St. Basil's, it is curious that such a conspicuously religious structure was able to survive through the Soviet period.

Armoury Chamber

Though it takes its name from the fact that it housed Russia's royal arsenal when it was built in the 16th century, the most notable resident of the Kremlin's Armoury Chamber today is the Russian Diamond Fund.

Notable Kremlin Towers

Robert Schrader

The interior of the Moscow Kremlin is more beautiful and inviting than you'd expect, but the walls and towers that rise around it better live up to the intimidation with which the complex is associated. 

Borovitskaya Tower

Named to commemorate the dense forest that once stood atop the mount where it's built, this tower is extremely picturesque. Built in the late 15th century, it's visible from most places in the square, and also as you walk along the Moskva River.

Nikolskaya Tower

Also built in the year 1491, this tower currently suffered destruction at the hands of Napoleon's army in the 19th century. What you see now is the result of an 1816 re-design and renovation, though artillery fire during the Russian Revolution also caused superficial damage to the tower, named to honor St. Nikolas of Mozhaysk , so it's difficult to know which elements of it are original.

Spasskaya Tower

Known in English as the "Savior's Tower," this iconic, star-topped tower is perhaps the best-known of all the Kremlin's towers. Built in 1491 like the other two towers on this list, it's certainly the most photographed. As a result of its proximity to St. Basil's, it often makes its way into tourists' pictures.

Mausoleum of Lenin

Just as it's strange to learn how many religious monuments survived through the Soviet period, it's a bit odd to think that Lenin's preserved body still sits in a mausoleum just beneath the walls of the Kremlin on Red Square, given the lack of consensus about the ultimate impact of his Revolution, even in Russia.

It's not guaranteed that you'll be able to see the body (which, believe it or not, seems to be improving with age ) when you go, and if you do you will likely have to wait in line, but even strolling past the outside of the Lenin Mausoleum, flanked by stone-faced guards that almost look like statues, illuminates the gravity of his body still being here.

GUM Shopping Center

You might cringe, at least initially, when you realize that one of the most iconic stops on a tour of Red Square is a department store—until you see said department store, that is. Built in 1893 and known during Soviet times as the State Department Store, GUM  ( Glávnyj Universáľnyj Magazín​ or Main Universal Store in English) hearkens back to the grandeur of the late 19th century, both seen from the outside (especially, when lit up at night) and the interior, which might have you feeling like you're further west in Europe.

A trip inside GUM is a particularly good idea during winter, when frigid temperatures outside will have you savoring the heat, the quality of souvenirs, confections and other goods sold inside notwithstanding. Also, make sure not to confuse GUM with CDM, which sits near the Bolshoi Theatre, even though both are stunning and iconic in their own right.

State Historical Museum

The Russian State Historical Museum is located near Voskresensky Gates, though you should wait until after you've seen the first few attractions of Red Square and the Kremlin to head back there and go inside. To be sure, as you pass by its facade (whose late-19th century grandeur somewhat obscures that fact that it's currently a museum accessible to the public) you might not even think to try and gain entry.

Once inside the museum, you can plan to spend at least a couple of hours, given that artifacts here date back to the very beginning of the Russian state in the ninth century. As is the case with GUM, this will be a particularly alluring prospect if you visit in winter, when Moscow is arguably at its most beautiful, but certainly at its least tolerable. 

Minin-Pozharsky Monument

It's somewhat easy to disregard this monument, which pays homage to the two Russian princes who ended the so-called "Time of Troubles" in the mid-16th century, during which Polish-Lithuanian forces occupied Russia, among other awful things including a famine. That's because the statue currently sits just at the base of St. Basil's Cathedral, which makes it very difficult to photograph or even see without being overwhelmed by that much more famous edifice.

Though the statue originally sat at the very center of Red Square, it came to be an obstacle to the movement of tanks during the Soviet period, much like the Voskresensky Gates. As a result, authorities moved it during that time, and it's stayed where you currently find it ever since.

Kazan Cathedral

Taken by itself, the smokey-pink Kazan Cathedral is an architectural marvel; originally built in the 17th century, the church you find here today, located just north of the GUM department store, dates back only to 1993.

Unfortunately, since it sits not only in the shadow of GUM, but also in the shadow St. Basil's and the Towers of the Kremlin, it's easy to miss entirely if you aren't looking. As a result, you might wait until you've seen just about everything else in Red Square before coming here to take photos, and to appreciate the understated beauty of this oft-overlooked cathedral.

Moskva River

As you head south from St. Basil's Cathedral to exit Red Square, make sure to walk onto Bolshoy Moskvoretskiy Bridge, which crosses the Moskva River. If you look due north, you can get an excellent shot of the church framed, on the left, by the towers of the Kremlin. Directing your gaze a bit to the west allows you to see the skyscrapers of Moscow City as they rise above the Kremlin's walls.

Walking westward along the riverbank is also a worthwhile excursion, for the views it provides of Red Square and the Kremlin, as well as the fact that doing so takes you to other iconic Moscow attractions, including Gorky Park and the Pushkin Museum. The views you enjoy from the river and the bridge are particularly stunning at night, though you should make sure you bring a tripod if you want to get a clear picture, given how strong winds over and near the river can be.

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Moscow opens its doors to middle eastern tourists with fresh offerings and easier access.

Moscow continues to be an enticing destination for Middle Eastern travelers, as the Russian capital continues to roll out a host of initiatives.

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Published: Mon 23 Oct 2023, 3:57 PM

Evgeny Kozlov, the chairman of the Moscow City Tourism Committee, has underscored the Middle East as a pivotal partner in Moscow's flourishing tourism sector. A dedicated approach to attracting more tourists involves fostering collaboration between local and international businesses.

"Since the beginning of this year, the Moscow City Tourism Committee has organised eight business missions in eight countries, as well as four family trips to the capital. More than 100 companies from Iran, Saudi Arabia and the UAE have joined them. Such events make it possible to establish cooperation between Moscow and Middle East tourism industries and contribute to an increase in reciprocal tourist flows," emphasised Kozlov.

September and October witnessed the arrival of approximately 40 representatives from travel companies in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, embarking on a comprehensive familiarisation trip to Moscow. During their visit, they explored Moscow's extensive tourism potential and engaged in numerous business discussions with local counterparts. Moreover, they were introduced to the 'Moscow+' programme, which not only unveils the charm of Moscow but also provides access to other captivating Russian cities, including Kazan and destinations in the Moscow region. With Moscow serving as the central transportation hub of the nation, exploring nearby suburbs, with their magnificent monasteries and fortresses in Sergiev Posad, Kolomna, and Zvenigorod, is made conveniently accessible. For those seeking greater adventure, high-speed trains offer a swift journey to St. Petersburg, known as Russia's 'northern' capital, celebrated for its white nights.

Experts in the tourism industry from the Middle East have emphasised the potential appeal of Moscow's countryside infrastructure, which includes an array of spa complexes, elegant estates, golf clubs, and ethnoparks. Winter tourism promises to be a unique and unforgettable experience for Middle Eastern travellers, particularly during the new year holidays when Moscow undergoes a breathtaking transformation, captivating visitors of all ages.

Travelling from the Middle East to Moscow has become increasingly convenient. Presently, there are over 100 flights connecting the United Arab Emirates and Moscow, complemented by regular flight connections to countries like Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait, and other Middle Eastern nations. In August, Russia introduced e-visas for citizens of 55 countries, including Middle Eastern states. These e-visas are valid for 60 days from the date of issue, granting tourists a 16-day stay in Russia. Moreover, Russia is actively exploring the possibility of abolishing tourist visas for citizens of Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, and Kuwait by 2024. Already, citizens of the UAE and Qatar enjoy a visa-free regime for travel to Moscow.

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

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Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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Airlines suspend flights due to Middle East tensions

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Zelenskiy urges speedy passage of Ukraine aid in US Senate, transfer of weapons

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Sunday welcomed the passage of $60 billion in aid for Ukraine by the U.S. House of Representatives but urged Washington to quickly turn the bill into law and proceed with the actual transfer of weapons, saying long-range arms and air defense systems were top priorities.

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Middle East crisis: Blinken calls for calm as Iran official says no plan for immediate retaliation to reported Israeli missile strike – as it happened

This live blog is now closed. For the latest on the Middle East crisis, you can read our coverage here .

• 2d ago This day so far
• 2d ago Afternoon summary
• 2d ago EU imposes sanctions on four Israeli settlers
• 2d ago US sanctions on entities that raised funds for West Bank settlers
• 2d ago Man arrested in Paris after police cordon off Iranian consulate due to reported bomb threat
• 2d ago Blinken says conversations on Rafah at senior levels with Israel continue
• 2d ago Israeli 'aggression' on Iran is an escalation against the region, Hamas official says
• 2d ago Blinken: Hamas standing in the way of a Gaza ceasefire
• 2d ago Blinken: G7 is 'committed to de-escalating'
• 2d ago Israel gave US last-minute warning about drone attack on Iran, Italian foreign minister says
• 2d ago Israel's far-right national security minister criticised for online post about Israel and Iran
• 2d ago EU Commission president calls on Israel and Iran to refrain from escalation
• 2d ago US vetoes Palestinian request for full UN membership
• 2d ago No plan for immediate retaliation against Israel, senior Iranian official says
• 2d ago Summary of the day so far
• 2d ago IAEA says no damage to Iran's nuclear sites
• 2d ago Summary so far
• 2d ago US officials confirm Israel carried out operation against Iran
• 2d ago Nuclear sites unharmed - Iran state TV
• 2d ago Iran fires defence batteries - state-run IRNA news agency
• 3d ago Iran suspends flights over several cities
• 3d ago Welcome and opening summary

Blinken: G7 is 'committed to de-escalating'

Antony Blinken , the US secretary of state, addressed the press today at the conclusion of the G7 meeting of foreign ministers in Capri , Italy .

On behalf of the G7, he condemned Iran ’s cruise missile and drone attack on Israel that prompted an airstrike today on Isfahan , that the US says it has confirmed was carried out by Israel . It hasn not yet been confirmed by Israel or Iran.

“We’re committed to Israel’s security,” Blinken said. “We’re also committed to de-escalating.”

He noted that despite the tensions with Israel and Iran , “we remain intensely focused on Gaza”.

This day so far

It is currently 7pm in Gaza , 8pm in Tel Aviv, and 8.30pm in Tehran.

Here is a summary of what has happened so far:

the Iranian foreign minister, Hossein Amirabdollahian, said that drones reportedly fired by Israel at the Iranian city of Isfahan did not cause “any damage or casualties”, as reported by Iranian media.

The US Congress is pushing forward a $95m national security package that would provide additional aid to Israel following Israel’s reported airstrike in Iran. The bill overcame a massive hurdle with the support of Democrats in the House of Representatives. If approved this weekend, it will be sent to the Senate.

A spokesperson for the Iranian foreign ministry denounced the US’s veto of a Palestinian request to the UN security council, blocking the world body’s recognition of a Palestinian state. Iranian diplomat Nasser Kanani called the veto “irresponsible” and “unconstructive”.

Thank you for reading the latest updates on the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.

Drones reportedly fired by Israel at the city of Isfahan in Iran caused no damage or casualties, said the Iranian foreign minister, Reuters reported.

Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian gave remarks on the drone attack while speaking with envoys of Muslim nations in New York.

“The Zionist regime’s media supporters, in a desperate effort, tried to make victory out of their defeat, while the downed mini-drones have not caused any damage or casualties,” Amirabdollahian said, according to Iranian media.

Here is an analysis of what Israel’s latest attack on Iran means for the political survival of the Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu , from the Guardian’s Bethan McKernan.

In the aftermath of Iran’s unprecedented salvo of missiles and drones fired directly at Israel at the weekend, Benny Gantz, a centrist member of the Israeli war cabinet, said that the country would respond “in the place, time and manner it chooses”. On Friday morning, that turned out to be explosions in the central Iranian city of Isfahan . Although no Israeli official has claimed responsibility for what seem to have been drone strikes on a military installation , Tehran, which retaliated after an airstrike on its consulate in Damascus, has downplayed the incident. The limited response may have for now staved off the threat of regional war. Unclaimed drone attacks on a military site in Isfahan are unlikely to satisfy supporters or critics of Israel’s longtime leader, Benjamin Netanyahu , or restore the level of deterrence Israel enjoyed in the region before the Hamas attack of 7 October. “Netanyahu, who has been threatening to attack Iran for 20 years, has realised a dream, or at least part thereof. The question is what about us, the people,” defence analyst and columnist for the leftwing Israeli daily Haaretz, Amos Harel, wrote on Friday. Meanwhile, Netanyahu ally and the far-right national security minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, reacted with just one word – “Feeble!” – in a post on X, formerly Twitter. The Israeli prime minister may have achieved several short-term wins here. The muted Iranian reaction has soothed an anxious Israeli public before the week-long Passover holiday. Israel has also struck while it still has international diplomatic support for such an action, before the sense of urgency wanes and the world’s focus returns to the war in Gaza and its deepening famine …

Read the full article here .

A spokesperson for the foreign affairs ministry of Iran condemned the US’s veto to block full United Nations membership for Palestine, calling the decision “irresponsible”, AFP reported.

The US vetoed the Palestinian request to the UN security council, blocking the world body’s recognition of a Palestinian state.

The US was the only country to oppose the request on the 15-member security council. Twelve nations were in favor. The UK and Switzerland abstained.

“Washington’s action exposed the fraudulent nature of US foreign policy and its isolated position,” Iranian diplomat Nasser Kanani said.

Kanani added that Washington’s veto was “irresponsible” and “unconstructive”.

The US Congress is pushing forward a $95bn national security package that would provide additional aid to Israel following Israel’s airstrike in Iran.

The bill was moved forward in the House of Representatives following a critical procedural vote, the Associated Press reported. The legislation would also provide humanitarian support to Taiwan and Ukraine.

Aid for the international conflict between Russia and Ukraine has received faltering support from far-right conservatives, threatening the bill’s passage.

With the latest procedural obstacle cleared, the bill could be approved by the House this weekend and then sent to the Senate.

Afternoon summary

It has gone 5pm in Gaza , 6pm in Tel Aviv and 6.30pm in Tehran. Here is a summary of the day’s events so far:

Speaking publicly at the G7 meeting in Capri, the US secretary of state, Antony Blinken, declined to elaborate further on the reported Israeli attack on Iran, except to say his country had not been involved. “I’m not going to speak to that except to say that the United States has not been involved in any offensive operations,” Blinken said.

Blinken said while the Gy was “committed” to Israel’s security, “we’re also committed to de-escalating ”. “What the G7 is focused on, and it’s reflected in our statement and in our conversation, is our work to de-escalate tensions, to de-escalate from any potential conflict,” he said. “You saw Israel on the receiving end of an unprecedented attack, but our focus has been on, of course, making sure that Israel can effectively defend itself, but also de-escalating tensions and avoiding conflict. That remains our focus.”

At a separate news conference moments before Blinken, Italy’s foreign minister, Antonio Tajani, said the US was “informed at the last minute” but did not elaborate.

Air defence systems over several Iranian cities were activated, state media reported , after the country’s official broadcaster said explosions were heard near the city of Isfahan , home to sites associated with Iran’s nuclear program, including its underground Natanz enrichment site.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) says there is no damage to Iran’s nuclear sites. In a post on X, the agency said it continues to monitor the situation very closely and calls for extreme restraint from all sides, stressing that “nuclear facilities should never be a target in military conflicts”.

French police arrested a man who had threatened to blow himself up at Iran’s consulate in Paris on Friday afternoon. A police source told Reuters that the man was seen at about 11am (9am GMT) entering the consulate, carrying what appeared to be a grenade and explosive vest. The man exited the consulate and was not actually carrying explosives, the source said.

Four Israeli extremist settlers in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem have been today sanctioned by the EU along with two entities over alleged “serious human rights abuses against Palestinians”.

The US also added to its settler-related sanctions today by imposing sanctions on two entities that the US said helped raise tens of thousands of dollars for two violent extremists in the West Bank already targeted with US sanctions.

The Turkish foreign minister, Hakan Fidan, on Friday spoke by phone to his Iranian counterpart, Hossein Amirabdollahian, at Iran’s request to discuss regional developments , a Turkish diplomatic source told Reuters. The source did not provide further details.

German airline group Lufthansa has suspended flights to Israel and Iraq until early Saturday. Lufthansa subsidiary Austrian Airlines also decided as a “precautionary measure” to suspend flights to Jordan’s capital Amman, as well as Erbil and Tel Aviv on Friday “to comprehensively reassess the security situation”. Both Lufthansa and Austrian Airlines had already suspended their flights to and from Tehran up until the end of the month.

Polish national airline LOT canceled flights on Friday to Tel Aviv and Beirut due to the unstable situation in the region, a spokesperson was quoted as saying by state news agency PAP.

Here’s a look at the area targeted last night in what the US has confirmed as an Israeli military operation in Iran:

EU imposes sanctions on four Israeli settlers

The individuals on the list are: Neria Ben Pazi , 31. According to the EU’s official journal, the reason for the listing was that Ben Pazi “established four of the most violent outposts in the West Bank in 2019”. He was “one of the main perpetrators of the forced displacement of a Bedouin community of Wadi Seeq near Ramalah. His actions “have been likened to torture”, the official journal said, including an attack on 12 October last year in which Palestinians were “severely beaten, handcuffed and photographed in their underwear” as well as “urinated on”.

Another Israeli, Yinon Levi , 32, is accused of “multiple violent acts” including storming and damaging houses of Palestinian families and setting dogs on farmers.

Also on the list is Meir Mordechai Ettinger , 33, “considered a leading figure of the Hilltop Youth, a radical youth group consisting of members known for violent acts against Palestinians and their villages in the West Bank.

According to the official journal he was involved in a deadly arson attack in 2015, that killed two parents and their 18-month-old baby, for which he was detained without charge that same year.

Another member of the group, Names as Elisha Yered , born in 2001, was reported to engage in settler violence through so-called “price tag attacks” including “physical and psychosocial harassment, beatings, murder and demolition of property, against Palestinians is of a systematic nature”.

The journal says he was “part of a group of armed settlers” involved in an attack last year near Ramallah which led to the death of the 19-year-old Palestinian Qusai Jammal Mi’tan and wounded several other Palestinians”.

One of the two entities named is Lehava , which the EU’s official journal describes as a “radical right-wing Jewist supremacist group” which “uses violence and incites violence against Palestinians, Christians and Messianic Jews”. According to the journal, Lehava “organises violent protests against Jewish Muslim weddings and the LGBQTi community”.

The other entity is named as Hilltop Youth , described by the journal as “a radical group consisting of members known for violent acts against Palestinians and their villages in the West Bank”.

The judgment can be read here: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=OJ:L_202401172

US sanctions on entities that raised funds for West Bank settlers

The US treasury department announced today that the US is imposing sanctions on Mount Hebron Fund and Shlom Asiraich – two entities that the US said helped raise tens of thousands of dollars for two violent extremists in the West Bank already targeted with US sanctions.

Mount Hebron Fund launched an online fundraising campaign that raised $140,000 for settler Yinon Levi after he was sanctioned in February for leading a group of settlers that assaulted Palestinian and Bedouin civilians, burned their fields and destroyed their property, the Treasury said.

Shlom Asiraich raised $31,000 for David Chai Chasdai , who the US said had initiated and led a riot that included setting vehicles and buildings on fire and causing damage to property in Huwara , resulting in the death of a Palestinian civilian.

“Mount Hebron Fund and Shlom Asiraich generated tens of thousands of dollars for extremists responsible for destroying property, assaulting civilians, and violence against Palestinians,” said Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Wally Adeyemo. “Such acts by these organizations undermine the peace, security, and stability of the West Bank. We will continue to use our tools to hold those responsible accountable.”

The US has previously sanctioned five settlers and two unauthorized outposts in the West Bank.

At least 34,012 Palestinians have been killed and 76,833 others have been injured by Israel ’s military offensive since the 7 October, Gaza ’s health ministry said on Friday.

The Hama s-run health ministry does not distinguish between combatants and non-combatants.

Man arrested in Paris after police cordon off Iranian consulate due to reported bomb threat

French police arrested a man who had threatened to blow himself up at Iran’s consulate in Paris , police said, Reuters reported.

A police source had told Reuters the man was seen at about 11 am (0900 GMT) entering the consulate, carrying what appeared to be a grenade and explosive vest.

The man exited the consulate and was not actually carrying explosives, a police source said.

You can follow more updates from Lili Bayer in the Europe live blog here:

Turkish foreign minister Hakan Fidan on Friday spoke by phone to his Iranian counterpart Hossein Amirabdollahian at Iran ’s request to discuss regional developments, a Turkish diplomatic source told Reuters.

The source did not provide further details.

Blinken says conversations on Rafah at senior levels with Israel continue

Further to the comments by Blinken already reported on the blog, there are some more lines from Reuters on what the US secretary of state said on the topic of Gaza .

At a press conference on Friday after a gathering of G7 foreign ministers on the southern Italian island of Capri , Blinken told reporters “we cannot support a major military operation in Rafah”. He said conversations on Rafah , in the southern Gaza Strip , continue at senior levels with Israel .

Blinken said he believed that “Israel’s objectives can be achieved” without a Rafah offensive. He added: “We are committed to achieving a Palestinian state with necessary guarantees for Israel.”

Qatar expressed regret on Friday over the failure of the UN security council to adopt a draft resolution recognising a Palestinian state through full membership of the UN (see 08:14 BST ), according to Reuters.

The United Arab Emirates said on Friday that granting Palestinians full membership in the UNwould be “an important step to boost peace efforts in the region”, the state-run WAM news agency reported.

German airline group Lufthansa has suspended flights to Israel and Iraq until early Saturday.

Services by airlines of the group to Tel Aviv in Israel and Erbil in Iraqi Kurdistan were suspended until 5am GMT due to the “current situation”, a spokesperson told AFP.

Lufthansa subsidiary Austrian Airlines also decided as a “precautionary measure” to suspend flights to Jordan ’s capital Amman , as well as Erbil and Tel Aviv on Friday “to comprehensively reassess the security situation”.

“Austrian Airlines continuously monitors and assesses the security situation in the Middle East and is in close contact with the authorities,” Austrian Airlines said in a statement sent to AFP.

Both Lufthansa and Austrian Airlines had already suspended their flights to and from Tehran up until the end of the month.

“Today’s flight 151/152 to Israel from Warsaw and to Beirut 143/144 have been cancelled,” Krzysztof Moczulski told PAP, according to a Reuters report. Moczulski said decisions about future flights would be made on an ongoing basis.

US secretary of state Antony Blinken repeatedly declined to confirm a reported Israeli attack on Iran on Friday, saying Washington has not been involved in any offensive operations and it was committed to de-escalating tensions in the region, reports Reuters.

“I’m not going to speak to that except to say that the United States has not been involved in any offensive operations,” Blinken said at a news conference capping a gathering of G7 foreign ministers on the southern Italian island of Capri . According to Reuters reporters, the top US diplomat kept repeating the same response, almost verbatim, when he was asked about the issue several times at the news conference.

At a separate news conference moments before Blinken, Italy’s foreign minister Antonio Tajani said the US was “informed at the last minute” but did not elaborate (see 11:58 BST ).

Explosions echoed over the Iranian city of Isfahan in the early hours of Friday in what sources described as an Israeli attack, say Reuters, but Tehran played down the incident and indicated it had no plans for retaliation – a response that appeared gauged towards averting region-wide war.

Israel said nothing about the incident. It had said for days it was planning to retaliate against Iran for Saturday’s strikes, the first direct attack on Israel by Iran in decades of shadow war waged by proxies which has escalated throughout the Middle East .

United Nations secretary general António Guterres said on Friday that “it is high time to stop the dangerous cycle of retaliation in the Middle East,” his spokesperson said in a statement.

“The secretary general condemns any act of retaliation and appeals to the international community to work together to prevent any further development that could lead to devastating consequences for the entire region and beyond,” Stéphane Dujarric said, accroding to Reuters.

Iran has been trying to reassure people that the country did not face a major threat after airstrikes were carried out in the Isfahan province on Friday.

A news anchor said everything was “back to normal” in a report aired on Press TV, the Iranian state broadcaster’s English-language outlet.

In another clip, said to be filmed in Isfahan and published by Iranian media, an unidentified person is heard saying there had been no damage to the area.

Officials in Washington said Israeli forces were carrying out military operations against Iran but did not describe the character or scale of those operations. Israel and Iran are yet to confirm the source of the strikes.

• Israel-Gaza war
• Middle East crisis live
• Palestinian territories
• Middle East and north Africa

More on this story

Gulf states’ response to Iran-Israel conflict may decide outcome of crisis

Muted Iranian reaction to attack provides short-term wins for Netanyahu

Israel has mounted airstrikes on iran, us confirms, as tehran plays down attack.

What we know so far about Israel’s strike on Iran

Iran and Israel playing with fire as old rules of confrontation are torn up

What’s in Isfahan? The city home to Iranian nuclear facilities

US to impose new sanctions against Iran after its air attack on Israel

Netanyahu aims to trap west into war across Middle East, says Iranian diplomat

Middle East conflict risks sharp rise in oil prices, says IMF

IDF chief of staff says Israel will respond to Iran missile attack

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Moscow still a key destination for Middle East tourists

• 139,600 visits to Moscow in 2022
• Majority were men aged 25-44
• Overall Russian visitor numbers down 49% on pre-pandemic

Moscow remains popular for tourists from the Middle East despite the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

Russia launched a war against its neighbour in February last year, yet tourists from the Middle East made 139,600 trips to Moscow throughout 2022, according to statistics from the Moscow City Tourism Committee (MCTC).

At the end of the first quarter of this year, visitors from the region made up more than 30 percent of the total tourist flow from outside of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), the group of nine countries that includes Russia, Belarus, Armenia and Azerbaijan.

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“Middle Eastern countries are among the most promising markets for inbound tourism,” according to the MCTC.

Saudi Arabia and the UAE were the most common origin countries for visitors from the GCC.

The data revealed men aged between 25 and 44 were the most prominent visitors to the city. They largely travelled alone or with friends or colleagues as part of business trips.

“The majority of tourists from the Gulf countries prefer to stay in hotels of 4-5 stars category and also, on average, spend more in the capital than tourists from other countries,” the MCTC added.

The tourism committee recently organised a webinar for Moscow’s hotel industry on halal standards as part of its strategy to cater to tourists from Islamic countries.

According to statistics from the Border Service of Russia, 3.26 million foreigners entered Russia in the first quarter of 2023, a 17.6 percent increase on the same period last year, but 49 percent down on pre-pandemic levels in 2019.

From the start of August, tourists from 55 countries, including several Middle Eastern nations, can apply for an electronic visa to enter the country.

The UAE has remained neutral in the Ukraine conflict, keeping open dialogue and business links with both Moscow and Kyiv.

There are 91 direct flights each week – 13 a day – from Dubai to Moscow, according to travel website MakeMyTrip.

Figures from Dubai Tourism in December showed Russia was the fifth-largest source market for visitors. The number rose 73 percent year on year to 938,000 between January and November 2022.

The emirate received 8.55 million global tourist travellers between January and June 2023, with tourists from Russia, CIS and Eastern Europe combined making up 14 percent of the total.

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News Analysis

With Iran’s Strikes, Arab Countries Fear an Expanding Conflict

The Iranian attack on Israeli territory made the Middle East’s new reality undeniable: Clashes are getting harder and harder to contain.

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By Alissa J. Rubin and Vivian Nereim

Arab countries, from the United Arab Emirates and Oman to Jordan and Egypt, have tried for months to tamp down the conflict between Israel and Hamas, especially after it widened to include armed groups backed by Iran and embedded deep within the Arab world. Some of them, like the Houthis, threaten Arab governments as well.

But the Iranian drone and missile attack on Israel over the weekend, which put the entire region on alert, made the new reality unavoidable: Unlike past Israeli-Palestinian conflicts, and even those involving Israel and Lebanon or Syria, this one keeps expanding.

“Part of why these wars were contained was that they were not a direct confrontation between Israel and Iran,” said Randa Slim, a senior fellow at the Washington-based Middle East Institute. “But now we are entering this era where a direct confrontation between Israel and Iran — that could drag the region into the conflict and that could drag the U.S. in — now that prospect of a regional war is going to be on the table all the time.”

For the moment, the only countervailing force is the desire of both the United States and its longtime foe Iran to avoid a widening of the conflict, said Joost Hiltermann, the International Crisis Group's program director for the Middle East and North Africa.

“I am heartened by the fact that the only ones who want a war are Israel and Hamas,” he said. “The Iranians are still talking to the Americans,” he said, referring to messages sent in recent days between the two by intermediaries including Switzerland and Oman.

The Iranian message, said Mr. Hiltermann, made clear they were looking to demonstrate their power, not expand the war. “They said, ‘There is going to be an attack, but we are going to keep it limited.’”

Still, for citizens of Arab countries, many of whom watched scores of drones and missiles streaking across their skies on Saturday, professions of desire to avoid a wider war are a slender thread on which to hang their future. Dismay over the attack was evident in many public comments, and in private ones, too, though others celebrated it.

Officials and analysts in the region were divided over whether Iran’s attack would spur countries with longstanding ties to the United States to push for still more engagement — and security guarantees — from Washington or to distance themselves in an effort to keep themselves safe from being attacked by Iran themselves.

Most urged de-escalation in the strongest terms. The only exceptions in the Arab world were northern Yemen, whose de facto Houthi government is close to Iran, and Lebanon, home to Hezbollah, the armed group backed by the Iranians.

Oman said that it was crucial to reach an immediate cease-fire in the war between Israel and Hamas that has been raging for the past half year in the Gaza Strip. Kuwait “stressed the necessity of addressing root causes” of the region’s conflicts.

And Saudi Arabia, which has tried to cultivate relatively warm ties with Iran since the two countries re-established diplomatic relations last year, said it was “extremely concerned” about the dangerous implications of the military escalation in the region. A statement from its Foreign Ministry asked everyone involved “to exercise maximum restraint and to protect the region and its people from the dangers of war.”

Even before the Hamas-led attack on Israel that set off the war in Gaza on Oct. 7, Arab countries had been adjusting their geopolitical relationships. Their concern was that they might no longer be able to count on a U.S. government increasingly focused on Asia as Iranian-backed armed groups became increasingly active.

Arab leaders’ discomfort only increased with the Israeli assault in Gaza, which the United States defended but their own citizens found abhorrent, said Renad Mansour, a senior research fellow at Chatham House’s Middle East and North Africa program.

For Saudi Arabia, this meant forging a diplomatic relationship with Iran, despite their deeply held antagonisms and attacks carried out with Iranian missiles on Saudi infrastructure as recently as 2019. Saudi Arabia’s approach to Iran was facilitated by China, which has recently worked to expand its influence in the region. Many Arab countries have turned to China in pursuit of business and diplomatic ties.

Then the war in Gaza began, dragging the Gulf states, along with Egypt and Jordan, more directly into the dynamics of a conflict they have wanted desperately to avoid.

Now, Jordan has found itself shooting down Iranian missiles — and then being accused of defending Israel. The Israeli military assault on Gaza, often accused of being indiscriminate, has killed more than 30,000 Palestinians, more than two-thirds of them women and children. Some 1,200 people were killed in Israel in the Hamas attack.

On Sunday, Jordan’s government came under sharp criticism both at home and from neighboring Arab countries for shooting down at least one of the Iranian missiles aimed at Israel. A former Jordanian information minister, Samih al-Maaytah, defended the decision.

“Jordan’s duty is to protect its lands and citizens,” Mr. al-Maaytah said. “What Jordan did yesterday was to simply protect its airspace.”

He also said that “Jordan’s position on this conflict is that it is between two parties over influence and interests: Iran and Israel.”

While the Gulf countries’ petroleum exports have been largely spared, the Houthi attacks on shipping routes in the Red Sea — tied to the war in Gaza — have raised costs and added to tensions.

It is unclear whether the conflict between Israel and Iran will strain further the relatively new ties between Israel and some Arab states. Since the war in Gaza began, those relations have cooled, but it seems none of the Arab governments that recently forged ties with Israel are ready to abandon them entirely.

Two of the countries that signed the Abraham accords normalizing relations with Israel in 2020 — the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain — have in some cases halted business deals or distanced themselves publicly from that country since the war in Gaza began. And Saudi Arabia, which had been exploring the possibility of diplomatic normalization with Israel, has insisted that any deal would require creating an “irreversible” pathway to a Palestinian state, an unlikely prospect in the current Israeli political climate.

That distancing is likely to continue, analysts say, but so far none have cut off relations with Israel or, in Saudi Arabia’s case, completely ruled them out.

One reason Saudi Arabia has remained open to a future relationship with Israel is that now more than ever, the Saudis are hoping for a security guarantee from the United States in the event of an attack by Iran, said Yasmine Farouk, a nonresident scholar at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, a Washington research group.

“What the Western countries under U.S. leadership have done to protect Israel yesterday is exactly what Saudi Arabia wants for itself,” Ms. Farouk said.

She added that despite Saudi Arabia’s history of enmity with Iran, the hardening of Saudi public opinion against Israel and the United States over the Gaza war is changing the calculations of Saudi leaders. Their focus is now on pushing the United States to compel Israel to end the war.

Perhaps the most striking development in the region is the growing push by some Arab countries to be part of forging diplomatic solutions to avoid having the region descend into a broader war. Arab countries held a conference in Riyadh in November to discuss how to best use their influence to stop the conflict.

Qatar and Oman have become ever more active behind the scenes in seeking to bring about a cease-fire in Israel and renew diplomatic efforts between Iran and the United States to prevent the outbreak of a destabilizing broader conflict.

Qatar’s close relations with Hamas, Iran and the United States have made its ministers and senior officials pivotal in shuttle diplomacy. And Oman has become a conduit for messages between the United States and Iran. In just the past few days, Washington has communicated with Tehran through messages conveyed by the Omanis as well as the Swiss, according to a senior security official in Iraq and a senior U.S. administration official in Washington, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly.

The new question, said Ms. Slim of the Middle East Institute, is what country can play the role of middleman and negotiator between Israel and Iran.

“The rules have changed, the red lines have changed and they need to be able to communicate,” Ms. Slim said.

Hwaida Saad and Eric Schmitt contributed reporting.

Alissa J. Rubin covers climate change and conflict in the Middle East. She previously reported for more than a decade from Baghdad and Kabul, Afghanistan, and was the Paris bureau chief. More about Alissa J. Rubin

Vivian Nereim is the lead reporter for The Times covering the countries of the Arabian Peninsula. She is based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. More about Vivian Nereim