Tartus - Discovering Syria

Travelling to Tartus

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Tartus, a pretty good destination in Syria (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Tartus and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Tartus, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Syria, here's everything to know about Tartus for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Tartus

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 heritage dating back to ancient times and is home to a number of historical sites such as the Citadel of Tartus, a Crusader-era fortress, and the Church of St. George, a Byzantine-era church. Tartus also boasts beautiful beaches and offers a range of water sports such as swimming, diving, and snorkeling. However, due to the ongoing conflict in Syria, it is currently not considered a safe destination for travelers.

What to visit in Tartus

Tartus is a beautiful coastal city in Syria that is rich with history and culture. Here are some of its tourist attractions: 1. Tartus Citadel: This fortress is located at the heart of the city and is believed to have been built during the 12th century. The Citadel has been restored and serves as a museum that houses various historical artifacts and exhibits.
2. Tartus Beach: This is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Tartus. It is a long beach that stretches for several kilometers. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports activities.
3. Saint George Cathedral: This is an ancient Greek Orthodox church located in the heart of Tartus. It is believed to have been built in the 16th century and has exquisite architectural features.
4. Al-Qadmus Village: This is a village located near Tartus that is known for its traditional architecture and picturesque scenery. Visitors can wander around the village and explore the narrow alleyways and old houses.
5. Tartus Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history of the city and its surrounding areas. It has a collection of old coins, artifacts from the Roman and Byzantine eras, and other exhibits that showcase the rich history of Tartus.
6. Al-Mina Archaeological Site: This is an ancient Roman port city that was excavated in the 1930s. Visitors can see the ruins of the theaters, public baths, and other buildings that date back to the 2nd century AD.
7. Tartus Market: This is a traditional market where visitors can see the local crafts and try out traditional foods and confectioneries. It is a great place to soak up the local culture and atmosphere.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Syria, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Tartus.

When to go on holiday to Tartus

It is not recommended to travel to Tartus, Syria due to the ongoing conflict and political instability in the region. The safety of tourists cannot be guaranteed. It is important to check travel advisories and consult with authorities for the latest information before planning a trip to this region.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Tartus

Tartus is a coastal city located in Syria. The most common way to reach Tartus is to fly into Damascus International Airport, and then travel by road to Tartus. Alternatively, you can also reach Tartus by taking a bus or driving from neighboring cities such as Latakia or Homs.
Here are some detailed instructions on how to get to Tartus from Damascus: 1. Flight: Fly into Damascus International Airport, which has regular flights from a number of international cities. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a private car to Tartus. The travel time is approximately 2.5 hours, depending on traffic.
2. Bus: There are regular bus services between Damascus and Tartus. You can catch a bus from Al-Terminal al-Jadid bus station in Damascus. The journey takes approximately 3 hours.
3. Car Rental: You can also rent a car in Damascus and drive to Tartus. The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours and you will need an International Driving Permit.
4. Private Car: You can hire a private car with a driver to take you to Tartus. This is a convenient option, especially if you do not want to take public transportation. You can easily find a private car at the airport or through local travel agencies.
It's important to note that due to the ongoing conflict in Syria, travelers should check the latest travel advisories for safety.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Tartus, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Tartus

Tartus is a coastal city in Syria, where the cuisine is known for its incorporation of fresh seafood and Mediterranean ingredients. Here are some typical foods of Tartus with a short description for each of them: 1. Kabab Halabi: This is a spiced meat kebab made with ground beef or lamb and served with vegetables and bread.
2. Sayyadiyeh: This is a fish and rice dish flavored with spices like cumin and cinnamon, and often served with a side of salad or yogurt.
3. Shish Barak: These are small dumplings filled with spiced meat or cheese and served in a warm yogurt sauce.
4. Mujadara: Also known as lentil and rice pilaf, this dish combines lentils, rice, and onions with spices like cumin and coriander for a hearty vegetarian option.
5. Fattoush: This is a salad made with fresh vegetables like cucumber, tomatoes, and lettuce, topped with pieces of toasted pita bread and a dressing of lemon juice and olive oil.
6. Baba Ghanoush: This dish is made with roasted eggplant, tahini, and garlic for a smooth and flavorful dip that's perfect with fresh bread or vegetables.
7. Knafeh: This is a sweet dessert made with shredded phyllo dough, cheese, sugar syrup, and sometimes served with pistachios.
8. Qataif: This is another sweet dessert made with small, pancake-like dough filled with nuts or cheese and then fried and served with sugar syrup.
You can find general info about typical foods in Syria here.

Is Tartus an expensive destination for tourists?

Tartus is generally considered to be a relatively affordable destination for tourists. However, prices may vary depending on the type of accommodation, mode of transportation, and activities chosen by tourists. It is also important to note that the political and economic situation in Syria may affect tourism prices, so it is advisable to check with trustworthy sources before planning a trip to Tartus or any other destination in Syria.

Where to find accomodation in Tartus

In Tartus, the best areas to find accommodation for tourists are mainly located near the coast. The most recommended areas are Al Ahrash, Al Mastoumeh, and Al Qalai. Al Ahrash neighborhood is known for being a peaceful and quiet residential area, it's located near the beach and it's just a few minutes away from the city center. Al Mastoumeh is another area near the beach, it has several hotels and resorts, and it's close to many touristic attractions. Al Qalai is a lively neighborhood, it's close to the city center and the beach, and it has a wide variety of restaurants and shops.
You can check hotel prices at Tartus here:
Booking.com

Is Tartus a safe destination for tourists?

The situation in Syria, including Tartus, is complex and varies depending on the region and current political climate. The US Department of State advises against all travel to Syria and the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office advises against all travel to the country. It is important to carefully consider your safety and security before planning a trip to Tartus or any other location in Syria. It is recommended to consult with travel advisories, government websites, and news sources for up-to-date information on the security situation. Additionally, it is recommended to obtain comprehensive travel insurance and to register your travel plans with your home country's embassy or consulate in Syria.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Syria here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Tartus.

What type of travelers will enjoy Tartus the most?

Unfortunately, I cannot recommend Tartus as a travel destination at this time due to safety concerns. Syria has been experiencing a very unstable political situation, with ongoing conflicts and violence throughout the country. It is important to prioritize safety when planning a trip, and it is not advisable to travel to any destination that may put you at risk. Instead, I suggest exploring alternative destinations that are safe and suitable for the type of traveler you are. Please feel free to let me know more about the type of trip you are planning, and I can provide suggestions for other destinations that may be more appropriate.

How to get around Tartus

In Tartus, you can easily move around by taxi, bus, or by renting a car. Taxis are the most convenient and affordable mode of transportation, and they can be found anywhere in the city. The buses are also a cheap way to travel around Tartus, but they tend to be crowded and have limited schedules. Renting a car is another option, and it gives you the freedom to explore the city at your own pace. However, be aware that traffic in Tartus can be challenging, and driving can be chaotic.

What to see around Tartus

Certainly! Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Tartus: 1. Krak des Chevaliers: This 12th-century castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved examples of medieval architecture in the world.
2. Saladin's Castle: This castle, located in the nearby town of al-Husn, is named after the legendary Muslim commander Saladin, who once used it as a military fortress.
3. Hama: This ancient town is famous for its Norias, which are traditional water wheels that were once used to irrigate the surrounding farmland.
4. Al-Maraqia: This charming rural village is known for its beautiful scenery and traditional way of life.
5. Syria's Mediterranean coast: The coastline of Syria offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and some of the best beaches in the country, including Latakia Beach and Beach of Tartous.
I hope this helps you plan your day trip from Tartus!
For every travel information about Syria you can click here.

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