In Syria you could explore the ancient civilizations and religions of the Middle East, see amazing ancient ruins as well as historical mosques and monasteries, visit the oldest inhabited city in the world, learn Arabic in Syrian language schools or enjoy the Mediterranean beaches of Syria. The pleasant climate and the variable landscape of the country with mountains, deserts and plains are ideal for outdoor activities. The hospitality of the Syrians and the inexpensive price level would also attracts visitors in Syria, if only the current violent conflict in Syria would end anytime soon.
More Syrian cities. Apart from Damascus, there are many other interesting cities worth exploring in Syria. The second largest city in Syria, Aleppo is the city of beautiful citadel, mosques and colorful souqs. Latakia is the main port of Syria and a popular local holiday destination with long, golden beaches. See also the ancient water wheels in the city of Hama.
Ancient & historical sites. One of the main attractions in Syria, Crac des Chevaliers, one of the most famous crusader castles in the world, is situated near the ancient city of Homs. The impressive ancient ruins of Palmyra that are located in the Syrian desert next to the oasis town of Tadmur are also well worth a visit. Syria also hosts Roman ruins in Apamea, many Arab castles and forts, as well as some of the world's oldest Christian monasteries, situated for example in the small town of Ma'loula.
Traveling to Syria is currently forbidden for foreigners due to the ongoing violent conflict. Normally, traveling to Syria is easiest by plane. There are two international airports in Syria. Damascus International Airport is the main gateway to the country. Many international airlines have regular flights to Syria. It is normally also possible to travel to Syria by train from Turkey, by ferry from Cyprus and by bus or shared taxi from the neighboring countries. Visas are required from visitors coming from outside the Arab League countries, but can in most cases be bought upon entry. Note that even in normal circumstances, there is no entry to citizens of Israel or those who have Israeli entry stamps in their passports.
Getting around. Many shared taxis have fixed routes to major cities in Syria. Microbuses operate usually on longer routes around the cities and can carry approximately 10 persons. They are cheaper than the larger buses but often more uncomfortable as they are usually very crowded.
Ancient cities, spectacular mosques and long beaches in Syria
Many foreign visitors come to Syria to see its capital city, Damascus, which is said to be the oldest inhabited city in the world. The city is home to more than 200 mosques, such as the spectacular Ummayad Mosque in the heart of the city. Today, Damascus is a busy modern city where you can taste Syrian specialties and buy beautiful local Syrian handicrafts in the colorful bazaars of Damascus.More Syrian cities. Apart from Damascus, there are many other interesting cities worth exploring in Syria. The second largest city in Syria, Aleppo is the city of beautiful citadel, mosques and colorful souqs. Latakia is the main port of Syria and a popular local holiday destination with long, golden beaches. See also the ancient water wheels in the city of Hama.
Ancient & historical sites. One of the main attractions in Syria, Crac des Chevaliers, one of the most famous crusader castles in the world, is situated near the ancient city of Homs. The impressive ancient ruins of Palmyra that are located in the Syrian desert next to the oasis town of Tadmur are also well worth a visit. Syria also hosts Roman ruins in Apamea, many Arab castles and forts, as well as some of the world's oldest Christian monasteries, situated for example in the small town of Ma'loula.
Practical information for your trip to Syria
Syria is one of the largest countries in the Middle East. The country is very versatile in landscape: There are fertile plains, mountains, vast deserts and a short coastline by the Mediterranean Sea. Most parts of Syria enjoy pleasant Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild, wet winters. The average temperature is 30°C in summer and 11°C in winter. Nights are often cool. Spring and autumn are best seasons to visit Syria, as summers can be very hot.Traveling to Syria is currently forbidden for foreigners due to the ongoing violent conflict. Normally, traveling to Syria is easiest by plane. There are two international airports in Syria. Damascus International Airport is the main gateway to the country. Many international airlines have regular flights to Syria. It is normally also possible to travel to Syria by train from Turkey, by ferry from Cyprus and by bus or shared taxi from the neighboring countries. Visas are required from visitors coming from outside the Arab League countries, but can in most cases be bought upon entry. Note that even in normal circumstances, there is no entry to citizens of Israel or those who have Israeli entry stamps in their passports.
Getting around. Many shared taxis have fixed routes to major cities in Syria. Microbuses operate usually on longer routes around the cities and can carry approximately 10 persons. They are cheaper than the larger buses but often more uncomfortable as they are usually very crowded.
Photo: James Gordon, used under Creative Commons License (By 2.0)
The larger buses offer a comfortable way of travelling between the larger cities of Syria, as they are air-conditioned and reliable. However, delays are common. The trains are reliable, cheap and comfortable way of travel in Syria. Taxis are plentiful in Syrian cities, but do insist they use a meter or agree on a price before getting into one.
Hotels & services. There are good facilities for visitors in Syria. The biggest cities and tourist attractions in Syria offer hotels, restaurants with excellent Arabic cuisine, and even some lively nightlife with bars and clubs with live music. Those Syrians working in tourism industry usually understand English.
Safety. Syria is currently experiencing a violent inner conflict and is not safe nor possible to visit for foreign visitors. Aside the political violence, some caution is also needed to protect yourself from pickpockets and harassment. Dress conservatively and avoid demonstrations and talking about politics.
History and culture of Syria
Syria has been occupied by several powerful empires and states throughout its long history. The Syrians are very proud of their ancient culture and craftsmanship, as well as the modern Syrian culture. Syria was once a part of various Arab empires and the Ottoman Turkey, and gained independence from France in 1946. It formed a union with Egypt in 1958 until the Syrian Arabic Republic was establishes in 1961. Hafez al-Assad was the leader of Syria for three decades until the year 2000. Today, Syria is lead by his son Bashar, who has taken a hard approach to the Arab Spring demonstrations demanding more liberties for Syrians, turning the country effectively into a war zone.Multicultural Syria is home to both Christian and Muslim inhabitants, whose cultures differ markedly. The ancient language of Christ, Aramaic is still spoken around Ma'loula in Syria. Visitors in Syria are treated hospitably, and a visitor should respect Arab and Islamic customs. Wear conservative clothes and shake hands when meeting and leaving. Women walking alone might get unwanted attention from Syrian men.
hint See also these nearby destinations: Aleppo
