Things to Do in Syria

About Syria

Where ancient civilizations first shaped human history and the Silk Road once pulsed with traders from distant lands, Syria stands as a profound testament to humanity's enduring spirit and cultural legacy. This cradle of civilization has given the world its first alphabet, revolutionary agricultural practices, and architectural marvels that have inspired generations across millennia. Beyond the headlines lies a nation whose very soil tells stories of resilience, where every stone whispers tales of empires risen and fallen, and where the warmth of its people reflects a heritage as rich and layered as anywhere on Earth.

Travel Tips

• Currency & Cash: The Syrian Pound (SYP) is the official currency, but US dollars and euros are widely accepted in many establishments; bring cash as international credit cards and ATMs typically don't work due to sanctions, and exchange money at official exchange offices or hotels rather than on the street.

• Language & Communication: While Arabic is the primary language, learning basic Arabic phrases will be extremely helpful as English is not widely spoken outside major tourist areas; consider hiring a local guide who can help with translation and cultural navigation, especially in souqs (markets) and when dealing with officials.

• Cultural Customs: Dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques and religious sites—women should carry a headscarf and both men and women should cover shoulders and knees; always ask permission before photographing people, military installations, or government buildings.

• Transportation: Shared taxis (servees) and microbuses are the most common and affordable way to travel between cities, but negotiate fares in advance; for Damascus, the old city is best explored on foot as many streets in the ancient quarters are too narrow for vehicles.

When to Visit

# When to Visit Syria

IMPORTANT TRAVEL ADVISORY: As of 2024, most governments strongly advise against all travel to Syria due to ongoing conflict, security risks, and lack of consular support. The following information is provided for historical/educational context only.

For those considering travel in more stable times, Syria's optimal visiting window traditionally falls during March through May and September through November, when temperatures hover between 15-25°C and rainfall remains minimal (averaging 25-50mm monthly). April offers particularly spectacular conditions with wildflowers blooming across the countryside and comfortable temperatures for exploring Damascus's Old City souks or Palmyra's ruins, though the Orthodox Easter celebrations can drive up accommodation prices in Christian areas like Maaloula. Summer months from June to August bring punishing heat, especially in Palmyra and Deir ez-Zor where temperatures regularly exceed 40°C, making archaeological site visits exhausting despite lower accommodation rates in coastal Latakia. Winter (December-February) sees temperatures drop to 5-15°C with occasional snow in Damascus and substantial rainfall along the Mediterranean coast (100mm+ monthly), though this period offers authentic cultural immersion during Ramadan observances (dates vary annually) when evening iftar meals create communal atmosphere, albeit with reduced daytime restaurant hours. Budget travelers historically found the best value in January-February outside of Ramadan, when hotel prices dropped 30-40% and tourist sites remained virtually empty, though persistent rain and cold made extended outdoor exploration challenging without proper gear.