Dar al-Yasmin

In a restored old Damascene house with grey granite and white striped walls, traditional decor, and elegant courtyards with trickling fountains, this attractive boutique hotel provides a great opportunity to get to know the Old City.

It may not be as elegant as Talisman or Beit Al Mamlouka (nor does it charge the same), but this hotel de charme still has ample atmosphere. The 18 rooms are set around two courtyards, the first of which is quieter despite being above reception (rooms on the first floor are best), as the second courtyard, as pretty as it may be, also serves as a restaurant. The public spaces are attractive with brass trays and carpets on the walls, and tables where you can write postcards. The second courtyard features a cool liwan (summer room) where you can curl up with a book, along with a more formal sitting room with exquisite Damascene furniture. The smallish rooms are simply decorated with inlaid wooden mirrors and traditional bedspreads. The hotel also boasts its own small hammam with sauna and massage.