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10 best historic cities in the Middle East

Cities that have been a city for a millennium. The layers show.

Ranked by climate, cost of living, language access, safety, and lifestyle fit. Personalize this →

  1. #1

    Istanbul, Türkiye

    100
    match

    Two continents, three thousand years of history, and a Bosphorus ferry as your commute.

  2. #2

    Antalya, Türkiye

    100
    match

    Turkish Riviera. Beaches under cliffs, Roman gates, and a long sunshine season.

  3. #3

    Muscat, Oman

    100
    match

    Most laid-back Gulf capital. Whitewashed buildings, dramatic coastline, ancient Arab character intact.

  4. #4

    Amman, Jordan

    100
    match

    Hilly Jordanian capital. Roman ruins in the middle of downtown, Petra a half-day drive south.

  5. #5

    Byblos, Lebanon

    100
    match

    Among the oldest continuously inhabited cities on earth. Crusader castle on a Mediterranean fishing harbour.

  6. #6

    Wadi Musa, Jordan

    100
    match

    Jordanian valley town at the gates of Petra. Sandstone cliffs, Bedouin tea, hike-out canyon walks.

Historic cities in other regions

Other rankings in the Middle East