population: 4.6 million

extension: 190.4 square kilometers

Museums

A great museum to visit in Aleppo is the Aleppo Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits related to Syrian history and culture. Other museums in Aleppo you might be interested in visiting include the National Museum of Aleppo and the Museum of Popular Traditions. If you're looking for similar museums nearby, you could consider visiting the Hama Museum or the Tartus National Museum, both located within driving distance from Aleppo.

Food

Some of the most popular and typical dishes to try in Aleppo, according to locals, include:

1. Kibbeh: A dish made from bulgur wheat, minced meat, onions, and spices that is shaped into balls or patties and either fried or baked.

2. Fattoush: A salad made with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and toasted pita bread, dressed with a tangy sumac and lemon vinaigrette.

3. Muhammara: A dip made from roasted red peppers, walnuts, breadcrumbs, and spices, served with bread or vegetables.

4. Maqluba: A one-pot dish made with rice, chicken or lamb, eggplant, and other vegetables, cooked together and flipped upside down to serve.

5. Halawet el-jibn: A sweet dessert made from ricotta cheese, semolina, and sugar syrup, rolled up like a cigar and often garnished with pistachios.

6. Shawarma: Thinly sliced grilled meat (usually chicken or lamb) wrapped in a pita bread with vegetables and sauces.

7. Baba ghanoush: A dip made from roasted eggplant, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice, served with bread or vegetables.

These are just a few examples of the delicious foods you can try in Aleppo. Other local specialties include stuffed grape leaves, hummus, and various types of kebabs.

Activities

Some fun activities that local people in Aleppo enjoy include:

1. Visiting the Citadel of Aleppo, a historic fortress located in the heart of the city.

2. Exploring the Old City of Aleppo, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features ancient markets, mosques, and churches.

3. Enjoying traditional Syrian cuisine at local restaurants such as Beit Sissi, Al Halabi Restaurant, or Jabri House.

4. Shopping at Souk al-Madina, a bustling market in the center of Aleppo where you can find everything from spices to textiles.

5. Attending cultural events such as concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions at venues like the Aleppo Opera House or the Cultural Center of Aleppo.

6. Relaxing in one of the many hammams (traditional bathhouses) in Aleppo, such as Hammam Yalbugha or Hammam al-Nahhasin.

7. Taking a stroll through one of the city's parks, such as the Baron Empain Park or the Shahba Mall Park.