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Syria

Capital

Damascus

Currency

Syrian Pound (SYP)

Language

Arabic

Best Time

Apr–May and Sep–Oct

Time Zone

AST (UTC+3)

Sustainability Politics
Flag of Syria
Welcome to Syria

Syria's Ancient Crossroads of Civilization

Welcome to Syria, a country holding some of the oldest continuously inhabited cities and richest ancient history in the world. Damascus, considered one of the oldest cities on Earth, holds centuries of Islamic, Roman, and Byzantine history within its ancient walls. The ruins of Palmyra, though damaged by conflict, once stood among the most spectacular ancient sites in the Middle East. Aleppo's historic old city and citadel reflect centuries of trade along the ancient Silk Road. Syria's rich culinary traditions, blending Levantine flavors and spices, reflect centuries of cultural crossroads. Traditional souks throughout the country's historic cities once bustled with textiles, spices, and centuries-old craftsmanship. Syria's deep history reflects a civilization that shaped much of the ancient world. Syria invites travelers to discover the profound historical roots of the Middle East.

Popular City

Damascus

Damascus, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, centers on the Umayyad Mosque, one of Islam’s holiest sites, its courtyard mosaics and shrine to John the Baptist reflecting the city’s deep religious significance. The Old City’s Souq al-Hamidiyeh, a covered market stretching for centuries of trade, leads visitors toward the mosque’s grand entrance. Straight Street, mentioned in the Bible in connection with the apostle Paul’s conversion, still runs through the heart of the old city, lined with historic houses and churches. Azm Palace showcases Ottoman-era Damascene architecture with elaborately decorated courtyards and reception rooms. Damascus’s layered history, spanning Roman, Byzantine, Umayyad, and Ottoman rule, makes it one of the most historically significant cities in the world. Years of conflict have taken a toll on parts of the city, and current conditions should be carefully researched before any visit.

Travel News

Popular City

Aleppo

Aleppo, another of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, was long famous for its vast covered souks and the Citadel of Aleppo, a UNESCO World Heritage fortress rising above the old city on a massive mound. Years of conflict caused extensive damage to much of the historic center, though restoration efforts have begun in parts of the old city. The Great Mosque of Aleppo, with its distinctive detached minaret, stood for centuries as one of the finest examples of Islamic architecture in Syria before suffering significant wartime damage. Aleppo’s historic role as a Silk Road trading hub shaped a rich culinary and craft tradition that residents continue to preserve. The scale of destruction in parts of the city underscores the human cost of the recent conflict. Aleppo’s history as a center of trade and culture remains significant even as much of its physical heritage continues to be documented and, in places, rebuilt.

Travel Tips

Helpful information to consider before and during your visit.

Before You Go

  • Confirm passport validity and entry requirements.
  • Check whether a tourist visa is required.
  • Keep digital copies of important documents.
  • Consider purchasing travel insurance.

Money & Payments

  • Review the local currency and exchange rate.
  • Carry some cash for small businesses and markets.
  • Check for international bank transaction fees.
  • Learn the country's customary tipping practices.

Stay Connected

  • Review your mobile carrier's international plan.
  • Consider purchasing a local SIM or eSIM.
  • Download maps for offline use before traveling.
  • Avoid sensitive transactions on unsecured Wi-Fi.

Transportation

  • Research public transportation before arrival.
  • Use licensed taxis or reputable rideshare services.
  • Check which side of the road vehicles use.
  • Confirm whether an international permit is needed.

Electricity

  • Check the country's voltage and outlet type.
  • Bring the correct plug adapter for your devices.
  • Use a voltage converter when required.
  • Pack a portable charger for longer excursions.

Weather & Clothing

  • Review the seasonal weather before packing.
  • Bring layers for changing temperatures.
  • Pack rain protection when appropriate.
  • Use sunscreen even on cool or cloudy days.

Food & Water

  • Research whether tap water is safe to drink.
  • Communicate food allergies clearly.
  • Try traditional dishes from reputable vendors.
  • Observe local dining customs and meal times.

Safety

  • Secure valuables in crowded tourist areas.
  • Avoid displaying large amounts of cash.
  • Share your itinerary with someone you trust.
  • Review current government travel advisories.

Language & Etiquette

  • Learn a few polite words in the local language.
  • Respect dress requirements at religious sites.
  • Ask permission before photographing people.
  • Follow local traditions, laws and social customs.

Emergency Planning

  • Save the country's emergency telephone number.
  • Locate your nearest embassy or consulate.
  • Keep medication in its original packaging.
  • Store emergency contacts offline and on paper.

Smart Packing

  • Pack comfortable shoes for walking and tours.
  • Keep essential medication in your carry-on.
  • Bring a reusable bottle where appropriate.
  • Leave room for locally purchased items.

Local Research

  • Check attraction hours and reservation policies.
  • Review national holidays and local closures.
  • Download important addresses before departure.
  • Leave flexibility for unexpected discoveries.
Important: Entry requirements, transportation rules, weather conditions and safety guidance can change. Verify important information with official sources before traveling.

Popular City

Palmyra

Palmyra, a UNESCO World Heritage site once called the Bride of the Desert, preserves the monumental ruins of a wealthy caravan city that flourished under partial Roman rule, its colonnaded streets and Temple of Bel among the most significant Roman-era ruins in the Middle East. The site suffered severe damage during recent conflict, with several key monuments destroyed. Queen Zenobia, who led a famous third-century revolt against Rome from this city, remains a celebrated figure in Syrian history connected to the site. Despite the destruction, substantial portions of the ancient city, including its funerary towers and grand colonnade, still convey the scale of its former grandeur. Restoration and documentation efforts continue at the site as circumstances allow. Palmyra remains one of the most significant, if tragically damaged, archaeological sites from the ancient world.

Local Food to Try

Discover some of Syria's most popular flavors, traditional dishes and memorable local treats during your visit.

Kibbeh

Kibbeh is a well-known part of Syria's cuisine and offers visitors a flavorful introduction to the country's food traditions.

Fatteh

Fatteh is a well-known part of Syria's cuisine and offers visitors a flavorful introduction to the country's food traditions.

Shish Barak

Shish Barak is a well-known part of Syria's cuisine and offers visitors a flavorful introduction to the country's food traditions.

Muhammara

Muhammara is a well-known part of Syria's cuisine and offers visitors a flavorful introduction to the country's food traditions.

Yalanji

Yalanji is a well-known part of Syria's cuisine and offers visitors a flavorful introduction to the country's food traditions.

Shawarma

Shawarma is a well-known part of Syria's cuisine and offers visitors a flavorful introduction to the country's food traditions.

Kebab Halabi

Kebab Halabi is a well-known part of Syria's cuisine and offers visitors a flavorful introduction to the country's food traditions.

Ma'amoul

Ma'amoul is a well-known part of Syria's cuisine and offers visitors a flavorful introduction to the country's food traditions.

Halawet el Jibn

Halawet el Jibn is a well-known part of Syria's cuisine and offers visitors a flavorful introduction to the country's food traditions.

Dining tip: Regional specialties and preparation styles vary throughout Syria. Explore local markets, independent cafés and family-owned restaurants for an authentic taste of the destination.

Little-Known Facts

Syria

Syria is home to Damascus, widely considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with archaeological evidence suggesting the city has been settled for over 11,000 years, making it a contender for the longest continuously occupied urban site on Earth. The country's ancient city of Palmyra was once a major trading hub linking the Roman Empire with Persia, India, and China, and its extraordinary ruins, including grand colonnaded streets and monumental temples, made it one of the most significant archaeological sites in the Middle East before suffering severe damage during the country's civil war.

Syria has endured a devastating civil war since 2011, one of the deadliest conflicts of the 21st century, which has caused one of the largest refugee crises in modern history, displacing millions of Syrians both internally and across international borders. Despite this modern tragedy, Syria's historical significance runs deep, having been part of the Fertile Crescent, one of the regions widely credited by archaeologists as a birthplace of early agriculture and some of humanity's first urban civilizations.

Syria's Krak des Chevaliers, a massive Crusader-era castle, is considered by historians and architects to be one of the best-preserved medieval military fortresses in the world, admired for its sophisticated layered defensive design.