Syria

Also called ‘the cradle of civilization’, Syria has yet to fall victim to mass tourism and preserves plenty of relics documenting the rise and fall of different civilizations. Visitors will be rewarded with Mediterranean beaches, golden deserts, palm tree oases and a friendly and hospitable people offering endless cups of mint tea. Too bad it has a habit of peeving off certain countries by clandestinely backing certain groups involved in certain terrorsit activities.

Syria is a land of deep history, layered cultures, and ongoing recovery. Damascus, one of the world’s oldest cities, holds ancient mosques, narrow souks, and centuries of tradition. Aleppo, once a trading hub, has seen great damage but still reflects its rich past in stone citadels and markets. Palmyra’s ruins rise from the desert, recalling Syria’s role on ancient trade routes. The Orontes Valley and coastal Latakia offer fertile contrast to arid regions. Syrian food, kibbeh, fattoush, maqluba, is shared with pride. Though conflict has left scars, Syria’s heritage, resilience, and warmth remain at its core.

Most travelers who come today are interested in seeing the legendary historical sites: the ancient city of Damascus, considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with its labyrinthine Old City, Umayyad Mosque, and traditional souqs; the Roman ruins of Palmyra, once among the most impressive in the Middle East; and Aleppo, whose Old City and citadel bear both grandeur and scars from the war. Crac des Chevaliers, a Crusader castle still standing near Homs, is another major draw. Despite the hardship, Syria remains culturally rich and emotionally intense.

Syria is an inexpensive country to travel in, but accessibility is limited and entry is heavily restricted. Tourists typically require special visas, must be on pre-approved tours, and may face scrutiny entering or exiting. Independent travel is nearly impossible in most parts of the country. Where tourism is permitted, you’ll find basic hotels, family-run guesthouses, and sometimes restored Ottoman-style houses. Food is hearty, local, and flavorful, expect kebabs, kibbeh, hummus, fattoush, and fresh flatbread with everything. Tea is everywhere, and you’ll often be offered it as a gesture of hospitality. Alcohol is available in Christian areas and some hotels.

Transport varies. In areas where tourism is possible, you’ll move around by private car with a driver or guide. Public transport exists but isn’t geared toward foreign visitors. Roads vary in quality, and checkpoints are frequent. Arabic is the official language; English is spoken by some people in tourist-facing roles. Syria is not considered safe in a general sense, many governments advise against all travel. That said, some travelers do visit relatively stable regions like Damascus and parts of western Syria with the right arrangements and security awareness.

Why Go to Syria?

• Damascus Old City & Umayyad Mosque: Explore one of the oldest cities on earth, wander ancient alleys, visit the grand Umayyad Mosque, and shop in Souq al-Hamidiyyeh.
• Aleppo’s Citadel & Old City: Witness both the resilience and devastation of Aleppo, and visit the towering citadel overlooking the city.
• Palmyra’s Roman Ruins (if accessible): Visit what’s left of ancient Palmyra, a former Silk Road city that once rivaled Rome in beauty and power.
• Crac des Chevaliers: Tour this Crusader-era fortress, one of the best-preserved castles in the world.
• Traditional Syrian Cuisine: Enjoy kibbeh, mahshi, falafel, and sweet treats like baklava and halawet el-jibn.
• Religious & Cultural Diversity: Explore ancient Christian sites, historic mosques, and Armenian churches that reflect Syria’s deep multicultural past.
• Stories & Hospitality: Meet people with incredible resilience who still extend warmth and welcome, even in difficult times.

Who Might Not Enjoy Syria?

• Safety-Conscious Travelers: Syria remains under travel advisories from most Western governments due to ongoing security risks, including armed conflict, terrorism, and civil unrest. Infrastructure and services can be unreliable or absent in affected areas.

• First-Time or Casual Tourists: Syria currently requires a high level of preparation, awareness, and risk tolerance. It’s not a destination for casual sightseeing or spontaneous travel.

• LGBTQ+ Travelers: Same-sex relationships are criminalized, and LGBTQ+ individuals face legal and social discrimination. Public expression of LGBTQ+ identity is dangerous.

• Unaccompanied Female Travelers: While women do visit Syria, traveling alone can involve unwanted attention, restrictions, and logistical challenges. Conservative gender norms are still strong, especially outside major cities.

• Travelers Expecting Modern Tourist Infrastructure: Much of Syria’s tourism sector was damaged or destroyed during the war. Hotels, transport, and tour services are limited and inconsistent.

• Those Uncomfortable with Heavy Surveillance: Foreigners may be subject to government monitoring, questioning, and restrictions on movement. Independent journalism, activism, or photography can attract scrutiny.

• Vegetarians or Vegans: Traditional Syrian food is rich and varied, but vegetarian and vegan travelers may find it difficult to navigate menus, especially outside major cities or without Arabic language skills.

• Travelers Sensitive to Conflict or Trauma: Many historical sites have been damaged, and signs of war (destruction, poverty, trauma) are visible. Some travelers may find this emotionally distressing.

Highlights

Damascus: is a real gem, packed with dazzling Islamic architecture, a low-hassle souq, first-rate museums and fine eateries.

Bosra: boasts some of Islam’s oldest minarets and a superb Roman theater embedded in an Arab fortress.

Aleppo: claims to be the world’s oldest inhabited city with some fine World Heritage buildings.

Palmyra: is home to stunning Roman ruins in desert surroundings, watched over by an Arab fortress.

Hama: is mainly known for its immense ancient waterwheels and is an excellent base for travel to other interesting sights.

Crac des Chevaliers: is the world’s most famous crusader castle and a former stronghold of the Hospitallers during the days of the Latin Kingdom of Jerusalem.

Biking: is excellent around Palmyra, the Dead Cities and Crac des Chevaliers, but look out for poor road surfaces and reckless drivers.

Trekking: is also great at the places mentioned above.

Camel riding: in Palmyra will have you on a desert ship in the blink of an eye.

Beach life: in Shaati al Azraq to fulfill your bathing needs, while Lattakia is an unusually tolerant and laid-back town.

Massages: in one of the well-preserved hammams, or public baths, will pummel you into oblivion.

Note: ALL travel to Syria is STRONGLY discouraged and nationals of all other states are strongly recommended to lead IMMEDIATELY due to the ongoing civil war.

Syria is a safe country for travelers and crime is considered dishonorable with harsh penalties. Keep your political thoughts to yourself. ‘Traveler’s tummy’ is the most common health worry and may combine with the heat to cause severe dehydration. Tap water is usually okay to drink, but steer clear of raw vegetables.