Lonely Planet review
Aleppo's legendary Baron is a museum piece. But just like Syria's museums, it's suffering from a combination of neglect and indifference to just what a treasure it actually is. Those looking for a place to have a decent kip should look elsewhere. History buffs shouldn't stay anywhere else.
The Baron is a classic, slightly eccentric Middle Eastern character piece, however, be prepared for a massive trade-off: for airs of Gothic romance, let go of any attachments to physical luxuries. Even with a 'renovation' that appears to be little more than a lick or two of paint and upgraded bathrooms, it's still hard to justify the room rate. Rooms that were apparently renovated already had peeling paint and cracks in the walls. What does make the Baron compelling is the ground floor bar, lounge and breakfast room, all beautifully preserved and full of character, with original fittings intact. But even enjoying this is disturbed by the hotel manager whispering "carpets, tours, change money?" in your ear. Still, whether you stay or not, it's worth a sticky-beak and a beer on the terrace. Have a toast to the Baron once again matching its history. Enshaallah!