Syria

Syria: general info for travelers

Syria is a country located in the Middle East, bordered by Turkey to the north, Iraq to the east, Jordan to the south, Israel to the southwest, and Lebanon to the west. It has a rich history and culture, with ancient landmarks and bustling markets. The official language is Arabic, and the currency is Syrian Pound. However, Syria has been plagued by political turmoil and conflict in recent years, resulting in severe humanitarian crisis and limited tourism activities. It is currently advised to carefully assess the security and stability situation before considering travel to Syria.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Syria, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Syria: places to visit

Nowadays it is not recommended to travel to Syria, but before the war there wew many interesting places to visit, and hopefully in the future we will be able to see again as tourists the following destinations:
Damascus: The capital city of Syria has a rich history, with sites such as the Umayyad Mosque, the ancient market of Al-Hamidiyah, and the National Museum of Damascus.
Aleppo: Located in northern Syria, Aleppo is known for its beautiful old city, which features a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Citadel of Aleppo, and the Grand Mosque of Aleppo.
Palmyra: An ancient city located in the Syrian Desert, Palmyra was once a thriving center of trade and culture. Visitors can explore its impressive ruins, including the Temple of Bel, the Arch of Triumph, and the Roman Theatre.
Latakia: This coastal city is known for its beautiful beaches and scenic views. Visitors can also explore the Saladin Citadel and the Latakia Museum of Archeology.
Krak des Chevaliers: A medieval castle located in the western part of Syria, the Krak des Chevaliers is a well-preserved example of Crusader architecture. It's also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Apamea: This ancient city was once an important center of commerce and culture. Visitors can explore its well-preserved Roman ruins, including the colonnaded street and the Roman theatre.
Hama: Known for its beautiful gardens and historic water wheels, Hama is a popular destination for tourists looking for a peaceful getaway.
There is more to see and do in Syria: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Syria: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Syria, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Syria experiences a Mediterranean climate, which means that it has hot and dry summers and mild and rainy winters. Here is a breakdown of the weather in Syria in different seasons: - Spring (March to May): This is a lovely time to visit Syria as the weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. It is also the best time to see the country's beautiful flora in full bloom.
- Summer (June to August): The summers in Syria can get quite hot, with temperatures reaching 40°C in certain parts of the country. It is advised to carry plenty of water and avoid being outside during the hottest parts of the day.
- Autumn (September to November): This is another great time to visit Syria as the weather cools down and the countryside is painted in shades of gold and red. Temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C.
- Winter (December to February): The winters in Syria can be quite rainy and chilly, with temperatures ranging between 5°C to 15°C. However, winter can also be a good time to visit some of the country's historic sites as there are fewer crowds.
Overall, the best months to visit Syria are between March and November when the weather is mild and pleasant. However, it is always advisable to check the weather forecast before planning your trip.

Syria: activities and what to do

Syria has many different activities and sports to do on holiday. Here are some of them: 1. Explore historical sites: Syria is home to many ancient civilizations, and there are plenty of historical sites to explore, such as the Roman city of Palmyra, the Krak des Chevaliers Castle, and the ancient city of Damascus.
2. Trekking and hiking: Syria has many beautiful landscapes, including mountains, valleys, and deserts. Trekking and hiking in Syria is an excellent way to explore nature and enjoy breathtaking views.
3. Horseback riding: Syria has a long history of horse breeding and riding, and taking a horse ride through the countryside is an unforgettable experience.
4. Water sports: With its Mediterranean coastline, Syria offers a range of water activities, including swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
5. Skiing: The mountains of Syria offer excellent skiing opportunities in the winter months.
6. Shopping: Syrians are renowned for their skill in handicrafts, such as pottery, textiles, and jewelry. You can find many souks and bazaars throughout the country where you can haggle over prices and find unique gifts and souvenirs.
7. Food and drink: Syria has a rich culinary tradition, and trying local cuisine is a must on any trip. From street food to fine dining, there is a range of delicious dishes to sample, such as shawarma, falafel, and baklava.

Syria: few words on history and culture

Syria is an ancient land with a rich history and a vibrant culture. The country has been inhabited since ancient times and has been home to various civilizations such as the Hittites, Arameans, Assyrians, Persians, Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines. In addition, Syria is also known for its Islamic history and is home to some of the most important Islamic landmarks, such as the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus and the Citadel of Aleppo.
Syrian culture is diverse and influenced by its history and religion. The country is known for its traditional handicrafts such as pottery, weaving, and embroidery. Additionally, Syrian music and dance are a combination of Arab and Western styles, including classical Arabic music and the famous traditional dance called dabke.
Overall, Syria's history and culture are an important part of the country's identity and have had a significant impact on the world.

Syria: how to move around on holiday

As of now, it is not recommended to travel to Syria due to safety concerns. The country has been impacted by ongoing conflicts and unstable conditions, which can be dangerous for tourists. However, if you must travel to Syria, the best means of transport will depend on your point of departure and the location you intend to visit.
Flying is the most common means of transport to reach Syria, and you can find several airlines that serve the country's main city, Damascus. Once you arrive, you can utilize local transport options such as taxis and buses to explore the region.
It's important to note that travel restrictions and requirements are subject to change, so make sure to check the latest travel advisory and entry requirements before planning your trip to Syria. To hire a car to visit Syria, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Syria: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Syria with a full stomach:D
Syrian cuisine is rich and varied, and influenced by its geography and history. Here are some typical foods of Syria: 1. Hummus: A staple of Syrian cuisine, hummus is a dip made from mashed chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil. It is usually served with pita bread or vegetables.
2. Kibbeh: Kibbeh is a dough made of bulgur wheat, minced onions, and ground beef, lamb, or chicken. It can be fried, baked, or eaten raw, and is usually served with yogurt or a tomato-based sauce.
3. Fattoush: A refreshing salad made from chopped vegetables (such as lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and radish), mixed with herbs, toasted pita chips, and a lemon and olive oil dressing.
4. Shawarma: A popular street food, shawarma is made from marinated meat (usually chicken or beef) which is slow-roasted on a spit and then shaved off and served on a wrap with vegetables and a sauce.
5. Baklava: A sweet pastry made from layers of phyllo dough, nuts (usually pistachios or walnuts), and sweet syrup or honey. It can be served as a dessert or as a snack.
6. Baba ghanoush: A smoky dip made from roasted eggplant, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. It is usually served with pita bread or vegetables.
7. Maqluba: A hearty one-pot dish made from rice, meat (usually chicken or lamb), and vegetables (such as eggplant, carrots, and potatoes) cooked together in a pot and flipped over to create a layered effect when served.
Overall, Syrian cuisine is flavorful, nutritious, and multi-dimensional, with a wide range of sweet and savory dishes to suit every taste.

Syria: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Syria may not be considered as an expensive country for tourists, but it is important to remember that the country has been ravaged by war and tourism has been severely affected. Although it may be possible to find budget-friendly accommodations, prices for tours and attractions may be more expensive due to the limited availability of certain services. Additionally, it is important to keep in mind the current safety concerns and travel warnings issued by many governments, which may affect the overall cost of a trip to Syria.

Syria: where to find accodation

There are several online travel booking sites where you can look for accommodation in Syria such as Booking.com, Agoda.com, and Expedia.com. Additionally, sites such as Airbnb and Vrbo offer vacation rental options. It's also possible to book directly with hotels or guesthouses by visiting their websites or contacting them via email or phone. However, due to the current political situation, it's highly recommended to check for up-to-date travel warnings and safety advisories before planning a trip to Syria.
You can check hotel prices in Syria here:
Booking.com

Syria: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
Due to the ongoing conflict, the number of tourists visiting Syria has drastically decreased in recent years. In fact, the United States Department of State currently advises against all travel to Syria. It is difficult to estimate the number of tourists who still visit Syria, but it is likely very few.
It is also important to note that there are no official tourist seasons in Syria, as the conflict has disrupted the country's tourism industry and made it difficult for travelers to plan visits. It is generally not recommended to travel to Syria until the security situation improves.
Unfortunately, Syria is currently not a safe country for tourists due to the ongoing civil war and political instability. The US Department of State has issued a Level 4 Travel Advisory, warning US citizens not to travel to Syria due to terrorism, civil unrest, and armed conflict. There are also many places in Syria that are considered extremely dangerous and should be avoided, such as the provinces of Idleb, Hama, and Aleppo. It is highly recommended to avoid all travel to Syria at this time.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Syria on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Syria: events for tourists

Syria is a country rich in history, culture, and traditions, and there are several interesting events for tourists to experience. Here are some of the most popular ones: 1. Damascus Opera Festival: This is a classical music festival held in the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world, Damascus. It features performances from local and international musicians and brings together classical music enthusiasts from around the world.
2. Palmyra Festival: This festival celebrates the ancient city of Palmyra, which was a major center of trade and culture during the Roman Empire. The festival features music concerts, art exhibitions, and performances of traditional dances.
3. Aleppo International Film Festival: This film festival takes place in the historic city of Aleppo and showcases international and Syrian films. It is a great chance to experience Syrian cinema and get to know the country's talented filmmakers.
4. Eid al-Fitr: This is the most important Muslim festival celebrated at the end of Ramadan. It is a time of feasting, gift-giving, and family gatherings. Visitors can experience the festive atmosphere by visiting local markets and joining in celebrations with locals.
5. Christmas in Maaloula: Maaloula is a small town nestled in the mountains and is one of the few places in the world where Aramaic, the language spoken by Jesus Christ, is still spoken. Visitors can attend traditional Christmas masses and explore the town's historic churches and ancient monasteries.
These are just a few of the many events and festivals that take place in Syria throughout the year. It is always a good idea to check the latest travel advisories and local events calendars before planning your trip.

Syria: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Syria, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them, when there will be no more travel safety concerns.
Day 1-2: Damascus
Visit the Umayyad Mosque, the National Museum of Damascus, and the Old City
Explore the markets of Al-Hamidiyah and Al-Bzouriyyeh
Dine at a local restaurant and try traditional Syrian cuisine
Day 3-4: Palmyra
Explore the ancient ruins of Palmyra, including the Temple of Bel and the Arch of Triumph
Visit the Palmyra Museum and learn about the city's history
Watch the sunset over the desert from Qalaat ibn Maan castle
Day 5-6: Homs
Visit the historic Al-Nuri Mosque and the Krak des Chevaliers castle
Explore the Old City and the Souq al-Markazi marketplace
Take a dip in the Orontes River
Day 7-8: Aleppo
Explore the Old City of Aleppo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit the Grand Mosque and the Citadel
Shop at the Souq al-Madina marketplace and try some local street food
Take a stroll along the Aleppo River
Day 9-10: Latakia
Relax on the beaches of Latakia and enjoy the Mediterranean Sea
Visit the Saladin Citadel and the Latakia Museum of Archaeology
Take a boat tour of the coastal towns and villages
Day 11-12: Tartus
Visit the Crusader-era Citadel of Tartus and explore the Old City
Relax at the beach and enjoy the sun and sand
Take a stroll along the seaside promenade
Day 13-14: Apamea
Explore the ancient Roman ruins of Apamea, including the colonnaded street and the Roman theatre
Visit the Great Mosque of Apamea and learn about the city's history
Hike through the nearby mountains and enjoy the natural scenery

Syria: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Syria described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Al-Bab is a city located in the Aleppo Governorate of northern Syria. It is situated about 40 kilometers northeast of the city of Aleppo and has a population of around 100,000 people, according to est... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al-Bab
- Al-Hasakah is a city in the northeastern region of Syria, located near the Turkish border. It is the capital city of the Al-Hasakah Governorate and has a population of approximately 250,000 people. Th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al-Hasakah
- Al-Qamishli is a city located in northeastern Syria, near the Turkish border. It is the largest city in the Hasakah Governorate and is mainly inhabited by Kurds and Assyrians. The city has a rich hist... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al-Qamishli
- Al-Raqqa is a city in northern Syria, located on the northwest bank of the Euphrates River. It is situated about 160 kilometers east of Aleppo and 450 kilometers northeast of Damascus. Historically, A... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al-Raqqa
- Al-Suwayda is a city in southern Syria, located about 100 kilometers from the capital, Damascus. It is the provincial capital of the Al-Suwayda Governorate. The city has a population of approximately ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al-Suwayda
- Aleppo is a historic city located in northern Syria. It's one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and has a rich history of being an important trade center because of its strategi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Aleppo
- Ayn al-Arab, also known as Kobani, is a city in northern Syria near the Syrian-Turkish border. It is part of the Aleppo Governorate and has a population of around 45,000 people. Ayn al-Arab is predomi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ayn al-Arab
- Damasco, also known as Damascus, is the capital and largest city of Syria. It is located in the southwest of the country, in the eastern foothills of the Anti-Lebanon mountain range. The city has a ri... CONTINUE here for a trip to Damasco
- Daraa is a city located in the southwestern part of Syria, near the border with Jordan. It has a rich history dating back to the Roman times, and it's famous for its ancient ruins, including the Roman... CONTINUE here for a trip to Daraa
- Deir ez-Zor is a city located in eastern Syria, on the banks of the Euphrates River. It is the largest city in the eastern region and the seventh largest in the country. Deir ez-Zor has a rich history... CONTINUE here for a trip to Deir ez-Zor
- Hama is a city located in central Syria, on the banks of the Orontes River. It is known for its historic waterwheels or Norias that once powered the city's flour mills and served as an engineering fea... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hama
- Homs is a city in Syria located in the central-western part of the country. It is the third-largest city in Syria, with a population of approximately 800,000 people. Homs has a rich history and was an... CONTINUE here for a trip to Homs
- Idlib is a city located in northwestern Syria, near the border with Turkey. It is the capital city of the Idlib Governorate. Historically, it has been an important center for the production of textile... CONTINUE here for a trip to Idlib
- Latakia is a coastal city in Syria and is the capital of the Latakia Governorate. It is located in the western part of the country, along the Mediterranean Sea. The city has a population of approximat... CONTINUE here for a trip to Latakia
- Manbij is a city in the Aleppo Governorate of northern Syria, situated on the west bank of the Euphrates River. It is located about 125 kilometers northeast of Aleppo and 85 kilometers west of the cit... CONTINUE here for a trip to Manbij
- Palmyra is an ancient city located in central Syria, around 210 km northeast of Damascus. It was an important trading hub and a cultural center in the ancient world, renowned for its beautiful archite... CONTINUE here for a trip to Palmyra
- Quneitra is a small city in southwestern Syria, located in the Golan Heights region near the border with Israel. It was heavily destroyed during the Syrian civil war and has since been largely abandon... CONTINUE here for a trip to Quneitra
- Raqqa is a city located in northern Syria along the Euphrates River. It is the capital of the Raqqa Governorate and was once an important center of trade and agriculture. However, in recent years it h... CONTINUE here for a trip to Raqqa
- Tartus is a coastal city located in western Syria. It is situated on the Mediterranean Sea and is known for its historic importance as a major port and commercial hub. The city has a rich cultural her... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tartus


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