Syria - When to Visit

When to Syria

Climate guide & best times to travel

Syria experiences a Mediterranean climate along the coast and in the western mountains, transitioning to a hot, dry desert climate in the interior and eastern regions. The country has four distinct seasons, with mild, wet winters from November to March and hot, dry summers from June to September. Spring (April-May) and autumn (October-November) serve as pleasant transitional periods with moderate temperatures and occasional rainfall. Coastal areas like Latakia enjoy more moderate temperatures year-round with higher humidity (around 70%), while inland cities like Damascus and Aleppo experience greater temperature extremes, and the desert regions can be scorching in summer and surprisingly cold in winter. Rainfall is concentrated in the winter months, particularly from December through February, with the coastal mountains receiving the most precipitation. Summers are almost entirely dry across the country, with clear skies and intense sunshine. The diverse topography creates microclimates, from the snow-capped peaks of Mount Hermon to the arid Syrian Desert, offering varied experiences throughout the year. Understanding these regional and seasonal variations is essential for planning a visit to Syria's ancient cities, archaeological sites, and diverse landscapes.

Best Time to Visit

Beach & Relaxation
June through September offers the warmest Mediterranean waters and consistent sunshine along the coastal areas, though July and August can be quite hot and crowded.
Cultural Exploration
April to May and September to October provide ideal conditions with comfortable temperatures for exploring ancient ruins, souks, and historic cities without the intense summer heat or winter rain.
Adventure & Hiking
March to May and September to November are perfect for hiking in the coastal mountains and exploring the countryside, with pleasant temperatures, blooming landscapes in spring, and comfortable conditions for outdoor activities.
Budget Travel
November through February (excluding holidays) offers the lowest tourist numbers and potentially better accommodation rates, though weather can be wet and cool, particularly in January and February.

Month-by-Month Guide

January

January is the coldest and one of the wettest months in Syria, with cool temperatures and frequent rainfall, particularly along the coast and in mountainous regions. Snow can fall in higher elevations including Damascus suburbs. The coastal humidity remains around 70%, while inland areas can be quite chilly, especially at night. This is low season for tourism, making it ideal for those seeking solitude at historical sites.

12°C (54°F) High
4°C (39°F) Low
60mm (2.4in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
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February

February continues the winter pattern with cool, rainy weather, though temperatures begin to show slight improvement toward month's end. Rainfall remains significant, particularly in coastal and western regions, while the desert areas stay relatively dry. The persistent 70% humidity along the coast can make it feel cooler than actual temperatures suggest. Tourist numbers remain low, offering peaceful exploration opportunities.

14°C (57°F) High
5°C (41°F) Low
55mm (2.2in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
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March

March marks the transition to spring with noticeably warmer days and the countryside beginning to bloom with wildflowers. Rainfall decreases but occasional showers still occur, especially early in the month. The 70% humidity remains consistent along the coast, while inland areas warm up more quickly. This is an excellent time to visit as temperatures become comfortable for sightseeing and crowds remain manageable.

18°C (64°F) High
8°C (46°F) Low
40mm (1.6in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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April

April brings beautiful spring weather with warm, pleasant days and minimal rainfall, making it one of the best months to visit Syria. The landscape is lush and green from winter rains, and wildflowers are at their peak. Coastal humidity stays around 70%, providing comfortable conditions for beach walks, while inland cities enjoy ideal temperatures for exploring archaeological sites and historic neighborhoods.

24°C (75°F) High
12°C (54°F) Low
20mm (0.8in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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May

May offers warm, sunny weather with very little rainfall, marking the beginning of the dry season. Temperatures rise noticeably, especially inland, but remain comfortable for most activities. The 70% coastal humidity becomes more noticeable as temperatures increase. This is an excellent month for visiting before the intense summer heat arrives, with long daylight hours perfect for extensive sightseeing.

29°C (84°F) High
16°C (61°F) Low
10mm (0.4in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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June

June ushers in summer with hot, dry weather and virtually no rainfall across the country. Coastal areas benefit from sea breezes and 70% humidity, making them more comfortable than the scorching inland regions. The Mediterranean Sea warms up for swimming, and this marks the beginning of the beach season. Inland cities and desert areas can be quite hot, requiring early morning or evening visits to outdoor sites.

33°C (91°F) High
20°C (68°F) Low
2mm (0.1in) Rainfall
High Crowds
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July

July is one of the hottest months with intense sunshine and no rainfall throughout Syria. Coastal areas remain relatively more bearable with sea breezes and 70% humidity, while inland cities and the desert experience extreme heat. Many locals head to the coast or mountains to escape the heat. This is peak tourist season along the Mediterranean coast, but inland tourism slows due to the oppressive temperatures.

35°C (95°F) High
22°C (72°F) Low
0mm (0in) Rainfall
High Crowds
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August

August continues the pattern of hot, dry weather with no rainfall and intense sunshine across the country. It's typically the hottest month, with temperatures peaking in the afternoon. The coastal 70% humidity combined with heat can feel oppressive, though sea breezes provide some relief. This remains peak season for beach tourism, but visiting ancient sites inland requires careful planning around the heat.

36°C (97°F) High
23°C (73°F) Low
0mm (0in) Rainfall
High Crowds
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September

September brings welcome relief as temperatures begin to moderate while maintaining the dry, sunny weather. The sea remains warm for swimming, and the heat becomes less intense, making it increasingly comfortable for all types of activities. Coastal humidity stays at 70%, but feels more pleasant as temperatures drop. This is an excellent month to visit, combining good weather with decreasing crowds as peak season ends.

33°C (91°F) High
20°C (68°F) Low
3mm (0.1in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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October

October offers ideal conditions with warm, comfortable days and cool evenings, making it one of the best months to visit Syria. Rainfall remains minimal in early October but may increase toward month's end, signaling the approaching wet season. The 70% coastal humidity is pleasant, and temperatures are perfect for exploring cities, archaeological sites, and hiking. Autumn colors begin to appear in mountainous regions.

28°C (82°F) High
16°C (61°F) Low
15mm (0.6in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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November

November marks the transition to winter with noticeably cooler temperatures and the return of rainfall, particularly in the second half of the month. Days remain pleasant for sightseeing, though evenings can be cool. The coastal humidity maintains at 70% as rain showers become more frequent. Tourist crowds thin out significantly, offering a more real feel, though weather becomes less predictable.

21°C (70°F) High
10°C (50°F) Low
35mm (1.4in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
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December

December brings winter weather with cool temperatures and increased rainfall, especially along the coast and in western regions. Snow may fall in mountainous areas and occasionally in Damascus. The 70% coastal humidity combined with cooler temperatures can feel quite chilly. This is low season for tourism, with fewer visitors at major sites. Winter festivals and holiday celebrations add cultural interest despite the cooler, wetter conditions.

14°C (57°F) High
6°C (43°F) Low
50mm (2in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
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Activities in Syria