Frequently Asked Questions

To get a Syrian visa, travelers flying into the country need to arrange visa approval in advance, which is then followed by receiving the actual visa on arrival at the airport—this step is required before boarding your flight. However, if you’re entering Syria by land from Lebanon or Jordan, the process is much easier: no prior approval or documents are needed, and you simply receive a visa on arrival at the border after paying the visa fees.

If you’re flying directly to Damascus, you’ll need an initial visa approval before boarding, and we at Syrian Guides can handle that for you. This approval process usually takes 3 to 7 working days. Once approved, the actual visa is stamped on arrival at the airport. For more about visa, visit our Syria Visa Requirements page.

If you’re arriving by air, here’s what you can expect to pay:

💡 These fees apply when entering by air or land. To see the full list of Syria visa fees, click here.

The current exchange rate in Syria is around 10,000 SYP to 1 USD, but keep in mind that rates can fluctuate frequently. It’s always a good idea to check the latest rate online just before your trip. You can also refer to our Money in Syria page for the most up-to-date info during your city tours.

Syria experiences a Mediterranean climate with four seasons, including hot summers, mild winters, and cool springs and autumns. However, weather patterns can vary across different regions of the country, making it suitable for Syria adventure tours year-round.

The best time to visit Syria is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. These seasons are ideal for Syria cultural tours, Syria historical tours, and Syria sightseeing tours. Check out our Syria private tours to find the ideal time that fits your preferences.

Credit cards are currently not accepted in Syria due to US sanctions. It is advisable to carry cash in the local currency for your Syria travel experiences. Check Money in Syria guide for more information.

Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan options available in Syria. Popular dishes include falafel, hummus, tabbouleh, and stuffed grape leaves (Warak Enab), making Syria food tours a delightful experience. Check our articles about Syrian food.

You cannot visit Syria if you have Israel stamp in your passport. Our Syria travel guide can offer more detailed information.

At Syrian Guides, we focus on comfort and authenticity, booking 4 to 5-star hotels whenever possible. We select accommodations like boutique hotels to enhance your experience. In Damascus, options include Via Recta, Beit Al-Mamluka and Dar Al-Mamluka; in Aleppo, Riga Palace; and in Al-Mishtaya, Villa Rosa Hotel, and Al-Wadi. These are part of our luxury Syria tours. To read more about our accommodation choices, please visit our Accommodation in Syria page.

Syria is home to numerous captivating tourist attractions, including Syria UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Highlights include the ancient cities of Palmyra and Apamea, famous for their historical significance. Notable Syrian landmarks such as Krak des Chevaliers and Saladin Citadel offer insights into the country’s rich past. Syria’s natural beauty can be seen in its coastal cities and the serene Valley of Christians. For more, our Syria UNESCO site tours cover these and other significant spots.

Syrian cuisine is renowned for its rich and enticing flavors that captivate the taste buds. The vibrant street food scene offers delectable options such as falafel, Peans, Fatteh, and mouthwatering shawarma. In restaurants, you can savor a variety of traditional dishes, including kebabs, Shakrieh, and the delectable Yabra’a. The refreshing salads like Fatoush, tabouleh, and invigorating watercress add a delightful touch to any meal, providing a burst of freshness and vitality. For more about Syrian local traditional meals, read our Syrian Food article

Traditional Syrian drinks include tea, Arabic coffee, tamarind juice, and jallab. Arak is also popular, along with local beers like Apamea beer. Our Syria cultural tours often include tastings of these local beverages. Read about 14 Most Popular Drinks to Try in Syria.

In Syria, mosques and churches often provide special attire for visitors, particularly women, to ensure respect for local customs. During our Syria cultural tours, we will guide you on the appropriate dress code to follow.

• Public Buses: Regular routes connect Damascus to Aleppo, Hama, Homs, Tartus, and Latakia.
• Private Transfers: Syrian Guides offers comfortable cars with skilled drivers—contact us for details.
• Taxis: You can use YallaGo application to book a taxi. You can download the app from here.

Syria has a rich and ancient history that spans thousands of years. It was part of several empires, including the Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic Caliphate. Significant historical sites include the ancient cities of Palmyra and Busra, and the legendary Krak des Chevaliers. These sites are essential highlights in any Syria Group Tour. For a deep dive into Syria’s past, consider a Syria panoramic tour or a Syria UNESCO site tour.

Syria is home to many important religious sites, including the Umayyad Mosque, Sayyidah Zaynab Mosque, and Ananias Church in Damascus. Other notable religious locations are Khaled ibn Al-Waleed Mosque in Homs and monasteries in Maaloula and Saydnaya. For a comprehensive visit, consider a Syria private tour to experience the spiritual and historical depth of these sites.

Syria boasts diverse natural landscapes, from the stunning valleys of Homs and Damascus to the scenic coastal region along the Mediterranean Sea. The mountains of the Anti-Lebanon and the Syrian Desert also offer breathtaking views. To explore these natural wonders, you might enjoy a Syria coastal tour. For more Syria tour options, check out our Syria Tours tours.

Nightlife in Syria varies by city and region. In cities like Damascus, Aleppo, and the Valley of Homs, you’ll find a range of entertainment options, including restaurants, cafes, bars, and cultural events. For those interested in local music and festivals, look into Syria cultural tours or Syria day tours that include evening activities.

Syria offers a unique shopping experience with bustling markets and bazaars. Souvenirs, traditional crafts, spices, textiles, and jewelry can be found in markets like Souq Al-Hamidiyah in Damascus and Souq Al-Madina in Aleppo. For a tailored shopping experience, consider a Syria private tour that includes shopping stops or a Syria city tour.

Tipping in Syria is not mandatory, but it is a common practice, especially in the service industry. In restaurants, it is common to leave around 10% of the total bill as a tip, although this can vary depending on the level of service and the quality of the meal. It is also common to tip hotel staff, such as housekeeping and bellhops, a small amount per day of your stay. Additionally, tipping taxi drivers is not common in Syria, but rounding up to the nearest whole number is appreciated.

Syria’s vibrant calendar is adorned with an array of local festivals and events that reflect its diverse cultural tapestry. Religious celebrations hold a special place, with notable occasions like Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, Christmas, and Easter, fostering unity and joy among communities. Additionally, the holy cross festival in Maaloula on September 14th and the Virgin Mary Carnival in Marmarita on August 15th offer captivating insights into the region’s religious heritage. For more information, read our Local Festivals & Events in Syria.

Public holidays in Syria include New Year’s Day, Independence Day, Revolution Day, and major Islamic holidays like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. If you’re planning to visit during these times, our Syria travel guide can provide additional insights on how these holidays might impact your trip.

Major industries in Syria include oil and gas, agriculture, textiles, manufacturing, tourism, and services. For those interested in understanding the local economy and industry, consider a Syria cultural tour or a Syria city tour that includes insights into the country’s economic landscape.

Internet speeds in Syria can vary, but major cities and tourist areas usually have better infrastructure. If staying connected is crucial, our Syria travel guide can provide tips on finding reliable internet options.

Traditional Syrian handicrafts include metalwork, glassblowing, pottery, brocade, mosaic, swords, carpet weaving, Ajami and traditional soap-making. To explore these crafts, you might enjoy a Syria cultural tour or a Syria day tour focused on local artisans.

Souvenirs can be found in local markets and bazaars such as Souq Al-Hamidiyah in Damascus and Souq Al-Madina in Aleppo. For a more curated shopping experience, consider a Syria private tour or a Syria city tour that includes visits to these markets.

Yes, it is possible to travel to Syria independently, without booking through a local tour company or hiring a guide. However, we highly recommend exploring the country with a trusted local guide or through a reputable tour. Why? Some regions still have safety concerns, and having a local expert ensures you avoid restricted areas, stay informed, and get the most out of your journey. A guide can also unlock deeper cultural experiences and smooth over any language or logistical bumps along the way. For a comprehensive experience, consider a private guide in Syria or a Syria group tour to ensure a safe and informative visit.

No specific vaccinations are required to travel to Syria. However, it’s always a good idea to consult with a travel clinic for the latest health recommendations. For a safe travel experience, Syria tour packages often include travel insurance.

In our tours, we consider safety first. We use Orient Insurance that offers full COVID-19 coverage. Travel insurance is included with all our Syria group tours. For private tours in Syria, we include it on request.

Credit cards are not functional in Syria due to US sanctions. It is best to carry cash in the local currency. For information on managing payments, read our Syria travel guide or Money in Syria page.

Popular souvenirs from Syria include traditional crafts like carpets, mosaic art, handmade jewelry, spices, traditional clothing, and Aleppo soap. For unique finds, consider visiting Souq Al-Hamidiyah in Damascus or Souq Al-Madina in Aleppo. To ensure you find the best souvenirs, our Syria private tours often include shopping experiences tailored to your interests.

In Syria, the electricity voltage is 220-240 volts, and the plug type is the European standard C and F types with two round pins. If you’re traveling from a country with different plug types, bring an appropriate travel adapter for Syria to stay connected and powered up during your visit.

The emergency phone numbers in Syria are 110 for police, 112 for medical emergencies, and 113 for the fire department. For a safe and well-prepared trip, our Syria travel guide provides essential information and support for various situations.

It is generally not recommended to drink tap water in Syria. Stick to sealed water bottles for drinking and brushing your teeth to avoid any health issues. Our Syria tour packages include guidance on safe drinking water options during your stay.

Some of the best Syrian sweets to try include baklava, knafeh, maamoul, and halawet el jibn. To experience these delicacies, our Syria cultural tours often include visits to local bakeries and dessert spots.

Yes, Syria is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Ancient City of Aleppo, the Ancient City of Damascus, Crac des Chevaliers and Salah El-Din castle, Palmyra, Busra, and the Ancient Villages of Northern Syria. For a comprehensive exploration of these sites, consider a Syria UNESCO tour or a Syria historical tour.

Top shopping destinations in Syria include Souq Al-Hamidiyah in Damascus and Souq Al-Madina in Aleppo. These bustling markets offer a range of goods, including textiles, spices, traditional crafts, and jewelry. To enhance your shopping experience, join a Syria private tour with a focus on local markets.

Generally, it’s acceptable to take photographs of sites and landmarks in Syria. However, always ask for permission before photographing individuals, especially in sensitive or religious areas. Be aware that taking photos of soldiers or checkpoints is prohibited. For more details on local photography etiquette, see our Syria travel guide.

Currently, ATMs are not accessible in Syria, so it’s essential to carry sufficient cash in the local currency. Make sure to bring enough cash with you as you won’t be able to rely on ATM withdrawals during your trip. For more information, read our Money in Syria page.

There isn’t a strict dress code for tourists, but it’s recommended to dress modestly and respectfully. When visiting religious sites or conservative areas, wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. This shows respect for local customs and enhances your experience.

While it’s not necessary for women to cover their heads throughout Syria, it is respectful to dress modestly. In some religious sites, like mosques, women may need to cover their heads with a scarf.

Yes, be mindful of avoiding public displays of affection, especially outside tourist areas. Respect local religious customs and practices to ensure a positive experience during your visit.

Although Syrian cuisine often includes meat and dairy, there are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. Dishes such as falafel, hummus, tabbouleh, and stuffed grape leaves (Warak Enab) are popular choices that cater to vegetarian and vegan diets.

Smoking is generally allowed in many public places in Syria, though some establishments may have designated non-smoking areas. It’s considerate to ask before smoking in shared spaces.

Yes, tourists are allowed to bring alcohol for personal consumption. There are also shops in Syria selling a range of alcoholic beverages. However, be cautious when consuming alcohol in more conservative areas, especially near significant religious sites like the Umayyad Mosque. Read about Alcohol in Syria in our article Debunking Stereotypes About Syria.

Traveling by bus is a convenient option for certain destinations in Syria. However, for touring multiple sites or reaching less accessible areas, private transportation is often preferred due to limited public options.

Yes, Syria currently has four international airports: Damascus, Aleppo, Latakia, and Qamishli. Among them, Damascus and Aleppo are the most active with scheduled international flights.

Several airlines now fly to Damascus and Aleppo airports. These include:

• Qatar Airways – Direct flights to Damascus from Doha.
• Turkish Airlines – Flies to both Damascus and Aleppo from Istanbul.
• Royal Jordanian – Flies to Damascus and Aleppo from Amman.
• Dan Air – Recently started direct flights from Bucharest to Damascus.
• Syrian Air – The national airline with regional flights.
• Fly Cham – A new airline with flights from UAE and Iraq to Syria.

Important Note: If you’re flying directly to Damascus or Aleppo, the airline may ask for a visa document before boarding.
If you’re joining one of our private or group tours, we can help issue this visa for you.

Currently, a few airlines operate in Syria, including Cham Wings and Syrian Airlines.

All major cities—Damascus, Aleppo, Hama, Homs, Palmyra, and Bosra—are safe to visit.

Roads: Most roads are in good condition, but some, like the M4 highway, are still damaged from the war. It’s best to avoid driving at night because of poor lighting and infrastructure.

Nightclubs, as commonly known in the West, are rare in Syria. However, major cities like Damascus and Aleppo have venues offering live music, dancing, and entertainment.

The best way to learn about Syrian culture and history is to explore the country’s historical sites, visit museums, interact with locals, and engage in cultural activities. Hiring a knowledgeable guide or participating in organized tours can provide valuable insights into Syrian culture and history. Additionally, reading books and watching documentaries can enhance your understanding of the country’s rich heritage. You may also join our Syria guided tours for a deep understanding of the culture and and experience to remember.