Syria

Syria travel guide - 2026

Welcome to our community travel guide to Syria.
I was among the first travelers to visit Syria after the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Shortly after returning, I created a group chat to connect fellow travelers and make sharing information easier. Almost a year later, this community has allowed us to exchange experiences, tips, contacts, and up-to-date insights that are often difficult to find elsewhere.
Through these collective conversations, we have learned so much that I decided to turn all this shared knowledge into a practical and accessible guide.

This travel guide is the result of that community effort, created to make your journey to Syria smoother, safer, and more informed.

Thanks a lot to all the contributors to this guide, from our “Traveler Community Middle East”

In this travel guide, you will find:
  • Visa requirements
  • Getting there (by plane or border crossing)
  • How to get a SIM
  • Money
  • Where to stay
  • How to get around
  • What to visit
  • Working places

Damascus, Syria - Manon Roca

Visa requirements

The current visa system operates mainly through a visa on arrival for most nationalities, which must be paid in cash in US dollars at the border crossing. The visa fee depends on the traveler’s nationality, and we provide full details later in this document.
We would like to draw your attention to the fact that for certain nationalities, at least India and China, we have received feedback from members of the travel community indicating that they may face difficulties obtaining a visa on arrival. In some cases, it appears that a prior “approved” visa or security clearance is required, usually arranged through a local tourism agency.

However, some travelers have reportedly been able to enter without prior approval, depending largely on the border officer on duty and the specific circumstances. It can vary significantly from case to case.

We will continue to provide updates as we receive more information. It is also important to note that there is currently no official government list specifying which nationalities are subject to these additional requirements, and no publicly available official document clearly outlining these conditions.

Prices shown in this order:
Single 1 month / Double 3 months / Multiple 6 months / Transit 15 days

Group 1: no visa required
Jordan, Lebanon, Malaysia, Mauritania


Group 2: free visa
Serbia


Group 3 – $25 / $40 / $50 / $15
Algeria, Angola, Azerbaijan, Botswana, Cambodia, Chad, China, Cuba, Ecuador, Egypt, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morocco, Namibia, Pakistan, Peru, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Trinidad and Tobago, Tuvalu, Yemen

Group 4 – $50 / $75 / $100 / $25
Albania, Armenia, Benin, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Chile, Colombia, Comoros, Côte d’Ivoire, Cyprus, Ethiopia, Gambia, Georgia, Guinea, Guyana, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jamaica, Japan, Laos, Liberia, Libya, Luxembourg, Malawi, Mali, Mexico, Mozambique, Myanmar, Nepal, Niger, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Singapore, South Korea, Suriname, Eswatini, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Uruguay, Vanuatu, Venezuela, Zambia, Zimbabwe

Group 5 – $75 / $110 / $150 / $40
Austria, Bahamas, Bahrain, Belgium, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lesotho, Lithuania, North Macedonia, Malta, Moldova, Netherlands, Oman, Paraguay, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Somalia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Tunisia

Group 6 – $100 / $150 / $200 / $50
Canada, Djibouti, Sierra Leone, Uganda, United Arab Emirates

Group 7 – $150 / $225 / $300 / $75
Afghanistan, Argentina, Australia, Burundi, Cameroon, Dominica, Equatorial Guinea, Fiji, Ghana, Kenya, New Zealand, Nigeria, São Tomé and Príncipe, United Kingdom, Uzbekistan

Group 8 – $200 / $300 / $400 / $100
Gabon, Kyrgyzstan, United States

Group 9 – $300 / $350 / $400 / $150
Congo, Marshall Islands, North Korea

Group 10 – $400 / $500 / $800 / $250
Iran

Group 11 – $50 / $75 / $100 / $25
All other countries not listed above (including Ukraine)

Maaloula, Syria - Manon Roca

How to get to Syria

Entering by air

Is arriving by air a good idea?
In theory, yes. In reality, it can be complicated.

The major issue you can encounter is the airline refusing to let you board.
The main problem is often airline boarding authorization, not Syrian immigration upon arrival.
Syria’s visa-on-arrival policy is inconsistently applied and, most importantly, not clearly updated online. Airlines rely on international databases that do not always reflect the latest changes. There is no reliable official Syrian visa platform that airline employees can consult, and in many countries there are no functioning Syrian embassies able to provide clear confirmation. As a result, airline staff often prefer to deny boarding rather than take responsibility. Several travelers report being initially refused at the airport, then later approved after providing contacts in Syria. Others were not allowed to board at all. The decision can depend entirely on the person behind the desk.

If you choose to fly anyway, you need to get ready.
  • If you are traveling on an organized tour, having an official invitation letter can significantly improve your chances.
  • If you are traveling independently, it helps to have reliable contacts in Syria (a local person, a driver, or someone who can confirm your visit). Sometimes, being able to provide names and phone numbers makes a difference. Staying calm and politely asking to speak with a manager can also help. In some cases, contacting the airline in advance to explain your situation may reduce uncertainty, although this is never a guarantee.

Another factor to take into consideration if you are considering flying to Syria is operational instability. Due to ongoing conditions affecting Syrian airports, flight cancellations are not uncommon. Some flights may also be cancelled if they are not sufficiently full. This adds another layer of unpredictability to flying directly into the country.

For these reasons, we generally recommend avoiding direct flights to Syria unless you are traveling with an agency that can provide an invitation letter and assist you in case of airport complications. For many travelers, flying to a neighboring country (Jordan or Lebanon) and entering Syria by land remains the more reliable and less stressful option.

Entering by land

For most travelers, Jordan and Lebanon are considered the easiest entry points into Syria. Crossing from Iraq is possible but involves a very long journey, while entry from Turkey is generally not possible unless you hold Syrian or Turkish nationality.

From Turkey

Only to Syrian (with a foreign nationality or Turkish visa) and Turkish Nationals.

From Iraq

There are three border crossings between Iraq and Syria, but currently only one is open. It is called Al-Qaim and is located near the Syrian town of Al-Bukamal (Abu Kamal).
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/kU2o43Qfi4LX72bA6

Traveling by bus from Baghdad to Damascus can take up to 24 hours and costs around 20-30 USD. There are a couple of companies operating with different fares.
You can El Rafidein, which arranges two departures per week (Monday and Thursday night) for 20 USD. Departues from their desk in Jaramana here. There are charging plugs and Wi-Fi on board, although the connection can be unstable.
It is better to reserve in advance: +963 995 210 604.

The bus stops several times on the Syrian side, including in Homs, Palmyra and Deir ez-Zor, so it may be possible to board from one of these cities instead of Damascus. The route passes through desert landscapes and follows the Euphrates River into Iraq. Historically, this route recalls the former service operated by the Nairn Transport Company in the early 20th century.

The border process is extremely slow, but it is possible to cross. The crossing is generally open from the morning until 6 pm. Border controls take a long time. Luggage can be checked several times, and foreigners should expect repeated questioning. Officials are generally calm but very meticulous.

From Lebanon

The first option to get from Beirut to Damascus is by public transportation. First, you need to take a bus from Beirut to Chtoura. The trip costs around 3 USD and takes about one hour.

The main departure point is Cola Station in Beirut, but you can also leave from near the Kuwait Embassy.
  • Once you arrive in Chtoura, buses regularly depart to Damascus. The ticket costs approximately 15–20 USD, and the travel time depends on the border crossing process, usually ranging from one to three hours. The location of the bus departure in Chtoura can be found here: Map link.
  • You can also go by private taxi: contact Mohammad (he doesn't speak English). He charges per car 35$ (you can try to negotiate)
This is his contact: +963 998 242 480

For reference, the departure locations in Beirut are:

The second option is taking a taxi. The fastest and simplest way to get from Beirut to Damascus is by hiring a private taxi directly. The ride should cost no more than 80 USD, but it’s always best to confirm the price when booking.

Recommended drivers include Ali, who speaks English and can be reached at +961 71 933 493, and another driver who does not speak English, reachable at +961 71 885 717, for whom you can use a translation app.

From Jordan

If you’re considering flying to Jordan instead of directly to Syria, there are a few important things to keep in mind.
You will need a Jordanian visa. For most European passports, this costs 40 JOD and is issued directly on arrival at Queen Alia International Airport in Amman.
From Amman, it’s possible to arrange direct transportation to Syria (Damascus and Aleppo). Several bus companies operate this route. Some of them offer direct airport pick-up.
  • Al Kamal - contact number: 0945576435.
  • Al Emberator الامبراطور - contact numbers: 0938347681, 0934148411, and 0982604116.
  • Al Sarraje مكتب السراج, - contact numbers: 0930666866.
  • Al Mufti شركة المفتي - contact numbers: 0950002054 or 0950002055.

When leaving Jordan, there are a few rules to note. If you stay in Jordan for more than three days, you must pay a 10 JOD exit tax, and make sure to get a receipt. Only then can you proceed to the counters to have your passport stamped. If you leave within three days of entry, the border crossing is free of charge.

On the Syrian side, you’ll first need to find the “Visa 1” window to pay for your Visa on Arrival, and again, make sure to get a receipt. Then turn around and go to the “Visa 2” counter to get your passport stamped.

The journey from Amman to Damascus usually takes about four hours, depending on border procedures. According to the experience of some travelers, additional checks on individual passengers, such as Palestinian travelers, can delay the bus at the border by a couple of hours. These situations can slow down the whole group, so it’s best not to plan any tight connections on the same day.

Aleppo, Syria - Manon Roca

How to get a sim or esim in Syria?

MTN and Syriatel are the two main mobile operators in the country. Internet speed and coverage can vary depending on the area and on power cuts. International roaming is generally very expensive and not recommended.

Buying an online eSIM
It is possible to use an international eSIM in Syria. Providers such as Batelco or Voya operate on the MTN network. A common package offers 20 GB valid for 30 days for $26.50.
This option is convenient if you want internet access immediately upon arrival without having to visit a local shop.

Buying a local SIM card in Syria
A Syriatel tourist SIM card cost approximately $36 or 400,000 SYP. At the moment, this appears to be the only tourist package available.
The package includes 15 GB of data, 100 minutes and 100 SMS, and is valid for 15 days. You need to purchase it in person and present your passport.

Example location in Damascus
https://maps.app.goo.gl/B8c4Lv3w65MJHRxNA

Money

At the moment, foreign bank cards do not work in Syria. ATMs are generally unusable for international cards, and electronic payments are not an option.
This means you must bring enough cash for your entire trip. We strongly recommend bringing US dollars (USD), as it is much harder to exchange euros locally. If you have euros, it’s best to convert them to USD before arriving in Syria.

US dollars are widely accepted almost everywhere in the country. Most Syrians are happy for you to pay in dollars and will give your change in Syrian pounds (SYP). It’s a good idea to check online for the current exchange rate of the Syrian pound before your trip.

You can also exchange your USD into Syrian pounds at local exchange shops, which is useful for paying daily expenses in the local currency.

Saraqib, Syria - Manon Roca

Where to stay in Syria

Damascus

  • Joul Jammal - فندق جول جمال
15 $/night with shared bathroom
https://maps.app.goo.gl/PjnbYr4nuutW2Pac6

  • Latakia Hotel
10 $/night
https://maps.app.goo.gl/aMNu52G7CtDMY9CZ8

  • Randa Palace
15 $/night
https://maps.app.goo.gl/1Def67A2zN4yfFSV6

  • Balqis Hotel
20 $/night
https://maps.app.goo.gl/QqWPZz84NUwkwHr97

  • Future Tower Hotel - فندق برج المستقبل
35 $/night
https://maps.app.goo.gl/D5V43GxDbBB8BgnL7

  • Afamia Hotel - فندق أفاميا
40 $/night simple,45 $ double
https://maps.app.goo.gl/k6Hxmg8uF3UCmZHK6

  • Aram Hotel
70 $/night single, 85 $/night double
https://maps.app.goo.gl/UpmZKACLoJh5YuMd6

  • Al Zaytouna Hotel
50 $/night 1 person, 70 $ 2 persons, 85 $ double or 3 persons
Marriage contract or family book required, lighting and internet available during power cuts
https://maps.app.goo.gl/SPUF6BZu18QP71Lz9

  • Al Rabie Hotel
25 $/night single, 35 $/night double
https://maps.app.goo.gl/CrG8VUYiqCrjcHbe7

  • Al Haramain Hotel
900-year-old traditional Damascene house, all shared bathrooms
15 $/night single, 20 $/night double
Landline +963 11 2319489, mobile +963 935 132 280
https://maps.app.goo.gl/3Lc8RxmsJqZEgVyEA

  • Rosa Damascena
South of the old town, 15–20 $/night, monthly 200–300 $
+963 944 289 860
https://damascusguesthouse.com

Homs

  • Johnny Hostel
From 17 $/person per night
Private or shared rooms, shared kitchen, free 24/7 battery-powered lights and fans, ot water, free WiFi, free laundr and free toiletries
WhatsApp +963 954 607 642
https://maps.app.goo.gl/qk6TncCn2Z3BgP1W6

  • Baibars Hotel & Restaurant
15 $/night
https://maps.app.goo.gl/umu7vpaeKMcDV6zP7

Hama

  • Riyad Hotel
15 $ single, 25 $ double
https://maps.app.goo.gl/umu7vpaeKMcDV6zP7

  • Cairo Hotel
https://maps.app.goo.gl/Z9BWoSTu94TS6S62A

Aleppo

  • Dar Halabia Hotel
20–30 $/night
Old center of Aleppo, 24-hour electricity, hot water, internet
WhatsApp Abdel +963 944 245 543
https://maps.app.goo.gl/MLBm4Za8M49ANixy5

  • Qasr Al-Andalus
15 $ simple, 20 $ double
https://maps.app.goo.gl/AeYnqhMrSpDPQnL69

Lattakia

  • Safwan Hostel
15 $/night 1 people, 25 $ 2 people for private bathroom
10 $/night, 20 $ 2 people for shared bathroom
Electricity almost 24/7
WhatsApp Mohammad : +963 933 376 900
Discount for CSers and Tintin fans
https://maps.app.goo.gl/3YGM92Ua2PwDyvhm6

Tartus

  • Alsfraa Hotel
20–30 $
https://maps.app.goo.gl/ASrQcEYaBTuQcMrr6

  • Daniel Hotel
15 $ single, 20 $ double, 30 $ triple
https://maps.app.goo.gl/AqhojSea3grZ7zfk9

Idlib

  • Dream Land Hotel
15 $ simple, 25 $ double
Only for men
https://maps.app.goo.gl/WhDqdLcRx9rr6aHL7

Palmyra

  • Palmyra Sunrise Camp
Overlooking the ruins, room up to three people with ensuite, breakfast included, tours available, evening meal available, good heater
+963 934 014 608

  • Saeed Bedouin Camp
+963 940 651 852

Homs, Syria - Manon Roca

How to get around

You can travel around Syria using public transportation, especially between the main cities. Most cities have bus or minivan stations (garages / “garajs”) where you can catch shared buses to other major towns.

Here are the locations of the major bus garages:

For the minibuses, the locations are:
Here is the price for some trips, the most popular routes in a series, to give you an idea of what to expect to pay. These prices can vary by 10-20K depending on the company and type of transport, so this is for informational purposes only:

Longer Bus Routes
  • Damascus → Tartus: 85,000 SYP (~$7)
  • Tartus → Latakia: 30,000 SYP (~$2.5)
  • Latakia → Idlib: 40,000 SYP (~$3.5)
  • Idlib → Aleppo: 25,000 SYP (~$2)
  • Aleppo → Homs: 85,000 SYP (~$7)
  • Homs → Damascus: 55–75,000 SYP (~$4.5–6)
  • Homs → Latakia: 70,000 SYP (~$6)
  • Damascus → Latakia: 100–130,000 SYP (~$8–11)
  • Damascus → Palmyra: 75,000 SYP (~$6.5, though they sometimes quote 100,000 SYP / ~$8)
  • Hama → Aleppo: 50,000 SYP (~$4)
  • Aleppo → Latakia: 75,000 SYP (~$6.5)
  • Latakia → Tartus: 25,000 SYP (~$2)
  • Tartus → Homs: 25,000 SYP (~$2)

Within Damascus, apps like Yallago can help you get around the city by taxi, although not every driver may use the app. Otherwise, taxis are widely available and are often color-coded: for example, yellow and white taxis mostly, and you can usually agree on the fare before starting the ride.

Syria - Manon Roca

What to visit

Please note that for the time being, we have not included detailed information about the south-eastern region of Syria, commonly referred to as Rojava. Some of the main cities in this area include Qamishli, Al-Hasakah, Raqqa, Deir ez-Zor, and Kobane.
As of February 2026, the situation there has been evolving almost day by day. We therefore prefer to wait for greater stability before providing more detailed information about this region.

Damascus

The beautiful capital of Syria. staying in the Old City if your budget allows is a must. If your budget allows, staying in the Old City is highly recommended, as it puts you right in the middle of the historic streets, souks, and traditional architecture.
Must-see sites include the Umayyad Mosque, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture; Al Azem Palace, showcasing Ottoman-era; the Sayyidah Ruqayya Shrine; Khan As’ad Pasha Al-Azem, an impressive caravanserai; Hanania Church; and the St Paul Syriac Catholic Cathedral.

For those looking to explore further, you can make a few day trips from Damascus:
  • Maaloula is one of the last places in the world where Neo-Aramaic, the language spoken by Jesus. Nestled in the mountains northeast of Damascus, it is a small Christian village. The village is known for its ancient churches, including the Monastery of Saint Sergius (Deir Mar Sarkis) and the Monastery of Saint Thecla (Deir Mar Takla), which are carved into the cliffs and offer stunning views of the surrounding valleys.
  • Bosra, home to a remarkably well-preserved Roman theatre. Once the second capital of the Nabateans after Petra, the city later flourished under Roman rule.

Palmyra (Tadmor)

You can reach Palmyra from Al-Qaboon Bus Station in northern Damascus. Tickets cost around 75,000 SYP, roughly 6 USD, and buses leave early in the morning and again around 11:00. Simply tell the locals you want to go to “Tadmor,” they don’t really use Palmyra. The journey takes about three hours, and there are usually no passport checks along the way.

Accommodation in Palmyra is limited, but there are a couple of campsites near the ruins where you can stay. Contact details and further information can be found in our hotel list.

Once in Palmyra, a great way to explore the more remote areas is to hire a local Bedouin on a motorbike for approximately 15 USD. He can take you to the isolated tombs, some of which were damaged during ISIS occupation, and up to the Mamluk castle on the hill. The ancient ruins are mostly empty, giving you a peaceful experience, and currently there is no entry fee, although a small fee is expected starting January 2026.

Homs, Syria - Manon Roca

Aleppo, Syria - Manon Roca

Much of Homs was heavily damaged during the war, probably making it one of the most destroyed cities in the country. Walking through the city center, surrounded by ruined buildings, you can’t help but feel small and almost overwhelmed. Yet, despite the destruction, life slowly continues: residents are returning, rebuilding, and reinvesting in their damaged homes. One notable site worth visiting is the Khalid ibn al-Walid Mosque, which still stands as a symbol of the city’s resilience.

As for Hama, it’s not really necessary to stay overnight, but it makes a perfect half-day trip from Homs. The main attraction here is the Norias water wheels, an iconic symbol of the city. These enormous wooden wheels, some dating back hundreds of years, were traditionally used to lift water from the Orontes River to irrigate fields.

Tartus

Tartus is a relaxed coastal city with a peaceful Mediterranean atmosphere. One of the highlights is a visit to Arwad Island, just a short boat ride away, where you can explore narrow alleys and enjoy fresh seafood by the sea. You can also spend the day swimming at one of the affordable seaside resorts.
Near Tartus, the ancient ruins of Amrit, dating back thousands of years, are worth visiting. If you have extra time, heading to the countryside is a great idea. Places like Sheikh Badr, Al-Qadmous, and Dreikish offer beautiful nature, good food at reasonable prices, and even outdoor activities like zip-lining.

Lattakia

Latakia is Syria’s main port and a lively hub on the coast. The city is known for its Corniche, a scenic seaside promenade lined with cafés and palm trees, perfect for evening strolls. Historical sites include the Ancient Latakia Castle, and several old Ottoman-era buildings scattered through the city center. Latakia is also a gateway to nearby archaeological sites like Ugarit, the ancient city where the earliest known alphabet was developed, and the Mediterranean beaches for swimming and relaxation. The combination of modern city life, history, and access to nature makes Latakia a versatile stop for travelers.

Iblid

Idlib has been largely isolated from the rest of Syria for years and has strong ties with Turkey. Locals are extremely welcoming, though they are often surprised to see foreigners. The city is now cautiously reintegrating with Syria after being inaccessible for over a decade.

If you plan to visit Idlib, note that USD and Turkish Lira are accepted, Syrian Pounds are not. Syriatel SIM cards do not work, so bring a compatible SIM.

Iblid, Syria - Manon Roca

Aleppo

Aleppo is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and has long been a favorite among travelers. At its heart stands the impressive Citadel of Aleppo, offering panoramic views over the city. The Old Souks, among the oldest in the world, are slowly being restored after the war and the earthquake, bringing life back to this historic trading center.

The city is also known for its rich culinary traditions and its remarkable religious and social heritage, including the Great Mosque of Aleppo and centuries-old hammams. Walking through neighborhoods like the Christian Quarter or Al-Jdayde reveals the city’s layered history and resilience. Despite the destruction it has endured, Aleppo remains vibrant, with cafés and markets once again filling the streets with warmth and color.

Around Aleppo, the mountainous region of Jabal Samaan offers beautiful natural landscapes and traditional villages. This rural area is home to impressive archaeological and historical sites such as Serjilla, Al-Bara, Apamea, Qalb Loze, as well as towns like Harim and Afrin — places that reflect the deep and diverse history of northern Syria.

Lattakia, Syria - Manon Roca

Working places in Syria

Thanks to Irene for this section !
Where to work in Damascus
  • Sukoon Business Café is a coworking space in Damascus offering a quiet working environment with stable high-speed internet (around 150 Mbps). The space uses a VPN, allowing access to all websites. The cost is 15,000 SYP per hour. Drinks are available to order on site.
Location

  • Chapters Internet Cafe
Also excellent, charging less than 1 USD per hour.
Location

Where to work in Aleppo
  • WASL Business Hub
This is a newly opened coworking space. The internet speed is around 50–55 Mbps, and no VPN is required. The price is 10,000 SYP per hour. The kitchen is still under construction, but everything else is fully functional. There is no bar on site.
Location

On the right: Homs, Syria - Manon Roca

On the left: Maaloula, Syria - Manon Roca

2026-02-21 13:44