Syria Travel FAQ

Yes, most international travelers need a visa to travel to Syria — but it’s easier than you might think. Citizens of Jordan, Malaysia, Lebanon and Mauritania can visit Syria visa-free. For all other nationalities, a visa on arrival is available at Syria’s land borders and international airports, including Damascus Airport and border crossings from Beirut and Amman. There’s no need to apply in advance — visas are issued upon entry for all Syria tour packages.

What is the cost of a Syria tourist visa?

The visa fee for Syria depends on your nationality and is set by Syrian immigration authorities. All visa fees are paid in cash (USD) upon arrival — whether you enter via the land borders (from Beirut or Amman) or through Damascus Airport.

For a full list of visa fees by country, check our Syria Visa update

The best time to travel to Syria is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) — when the weather is mild, landscapes are green, and cultural festivals often take place. These seasons offer perfect conditions for exploring Syria’s historical sites, walking the old cities of Damascus and Aleppo, or visiting Palmyra’s ruins without the extreme heat of summer or the chill of winter.

Summer (June to August) can be very hot, especially in the desert regions like Palmyra, while winter (December to February) is colder, particularly in mountainous areas such as Maaloula and Saydnaya.

If you're considering Christmas tours to Syria, December is a magical time to experience Syria’s Christian heritage, including festive traditions in Maaloula and Aleppo.

All our Syria travel packages are scheduled around the most pleasant seasons, with guaranteed departures and expert planning to help you explore Syria at its best.

No — credit cards are not accepted anywhere in Syria due to international sanctions. Syria operates on a cash-based economy, and ATMs do not accept foreign bank cards.

Travelers must bring enough cash (preferably USD) for their entire stay. You can exchange your money upon arrival in Damascus or at border crossings such as Beirut–Damascus or Amman–Damascus, where our ToursSyria team will assist you in finding reliable, up-to-date exchange rates.

All Tours to Syria from Beirut or Amman include full arrival assistance, including help with currency exchange to ensure you’re ready to start your trip smoothly.

 Reminder: Bring clean, undamaged notes (USD) — old or torn bills may not be accepted

Yes — while Syria is famous for its flavorful meat dishes, there are plenty of vegetarian and vegan-friendly options across the country.

Staples like hummus, falafel, muhammara, baba ghanoush, lentil soup, fatteh, tabbouleh, and grilled vegetables are widely available and perfect for plant-based diets. Many restaurants in Damascus, Aleppo, and along our Syria travel itineraries offer meat-free meals — and our team is happy to accommodate your preferences.

All ToursSyria travel packages include guidance on the best authentic Syrian food spots — whether you're a vegetarian, vegan, or just looking for the best local cuisine

Let us know your dietary needs when booking — we ensure that every traveler enjoys a full Syria travel experience, tailored to their taste.

Syria is a treasure trove of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ancient cities, and cultural gems — many of which are included in our ToursSyria itineraries.

Here are just a few of the top sites you shouldn’t miss:

·Damascus Old City – One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, home to the Umayyad Mosque, Straight Street, and Al-Hamidiyah Souq

·Aleppo Citadel – A majestic fortress overlooking the old souks and caravanserais

·Palmyra Ruins – Breathtaking Roman ruins in the heart of the Syrian desert

·Krak des Chevaliers – One of the best-preserved Crusader castles in the world

·Maaloula & Saydnaya – Historic Christian towns where Aramaic is still spoken

·Hama Waterwheels & Aphamea – Scenic ancient towns with Roman columns and river views

·Saint Moses Monastery – A peaceful spiritual site nestled in the mountains

·Damascene Houses – Hidden architectural jewels turned into boutique guesthouses

Most of our Syria travel packages include these highlights, and our guides provide deep cultural and historical context at every step.

Looking to explore off-the-beaten-path Syria? We also offer private tours that take you beyond the standard stops.

While Syria is slowly reopening to tourism, independent travel is not currently permitted for most foreign visitors. As of 2025, travelers must be accompanied by a registered Syrian tour operator throughout their stay.

At ToursSyria, we provide fully guided private and group tours, including:

·Visa assistance

·Pick-up from Beirut, Damascus, or Amman

·Custom itineraries designed for solo travelers, couples, and small groups

·Expert Syrian guides with deep local knowledge and safety training

 Whether you're joining a Syria group tour for solo travelers or prefer a private Syria tour with flexible dates, you’ll have the legal support, cultural access, and peace of mind to explore Syria confidently.

Note: All our itineraries comply with Syrian tourism regulations, ensuring your visit is safe, smooth, and fully authorized.

Yes — travel insurance is highly recommended for anyone planning to visit Syria in 2025. While it is not officially required for visa issuance

ToursSyria offers secure, smooth, and fully arranged transfers from Beirut or Amman to Damascus as part of your tour package — no need to worry about border logistics or local transport.

·From Beirut, the drive to Damascus takes around 2–3 hours, including the border crossing.

·From Amman, it’s about 4–5 hours, depending on the day and traffic.

Our English-speaking team handles everything from airport pickup, border assistance, and visa-on-arrival support, ensuring your journey into Syria is stress-free and comfortable.

This seamless service is one of the key reasons travelers choose ToursSyria when planning their tours to Syria from Beirut or Amman.

Yes, Syria is open to solo travelers — and ToursSyria makes it easy, safe, and meaningful.

We welcome solo travelers from around the world, including female solo travelers, and provide everything needed for a smooth journey:

·Local Syrian guide throughout your tour

·Option to join a small group (max 10 travelers) for added connection and value

·Female tour guides available upon request for solo female travelers

·All logistics covered: airport pickup, visa-on-arrival, border transfer, and local support

Whether you're exploring ancient Damascus, the ruins of Palmyra, or vibrant Aleppo, we ensure your solo Syria travel experience is welcoming, immersive, and secure.

Unfortunately, no. Syria does not allow entry to travelers with Israeli stamps, visas, or entry/exit marks in their passports. This is part of the country’s longstanding visa and border policy.

If you’ve visited Israel in the past, we recommend applying for a second passport (if your home country allows it) or renewing your passport before booking your Syria tour in. Immigration officers at the border will check for any evidence of Israeli travel, including entry stickers from land crossings or airports.

What should I pack for my Syria tour?

When packing for your Syria tour, think practical, respectful, and comfortable. You’ll be exploring ancient cities, walking through ruins, and visiting religious sites — so your clothing and gear should reflect that.

Here’s a basic packing list for a smooth Syria travel experience:

·Clothing: Lightweight, breathable clothes for the day; a warmer jacket or sweater for cool evenings. Long sleeves and pants/skirts are recommended for cultural respect — especially at religious sites.

·Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes or trainers — many sites have uneven terrain.

·Headscarf (for women): Required when entering mosques or certain monasteries.

·Cash: Syria is a cash-only country — bring clean USD bills (see Can I pay by credit card in Syria?).

·Toiletries: Bring what you need, as some brands may not be available locally.

Accommodations in Syria are more than just places to sleep — they’re part of the cultural journey. At ToursSyria, we thoughtfully select where you stay to ensure it adds meaning, comfort, and charm to your experience.

From traditional Damascene boutique homes filled with history to locally run hotels in Aleppo or Palmyra, each property is chosen to reflect Syria’s spirit and hospitality. Whether you prefer a heritage guesthouse or a more modern stay, we tailor the experience to match your comfort and travel style.

Yes — it is possible to extend your Syrian visa after arrival, but the process must go through official channels. Extensions are typically arranged in Damascus and require support from a registered local tour operator like ToursSyria.

As of 2025, Syria now offers a range of visa-on-arrival options, from 15 days up to 6 months, depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Most of our travelers receive a 1-month tourist visa, which is sufficient for standard tours — but if you're planning a longer stay or project, we can assist with both your initial visa application and extension request.

The visa fee for Syria depends on your nationality and is set by Syrian immigration authorities. All visa fees are paid in cash (USD) upon arrival — whether you enter via the land borders (from Beirut or Amman) or through Damascus Airport.

For a full list of visa fees by country, check our Syria Visa update

When packing for your Syria tour, think practical, respectful, and comfortable. You’ll be exploring ancient cities, walking through ruins, and visiting religious sites — so your clothing and gear should reflect that.

Here’s a basic packing list for a smooth Syria travel experience:

·Clothing: Lightweight, breathable clothes for the day; a warmer jacket or sweater for cool evenings. Long sleeves and pants/skirts are recommended for cultural respect — especially at religious sites.

·Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes or trainers — many sites have uneven terrain.

·Headscarf (for women): Required when entering mosques or certain monasteries.

·Cash: Syria is a cash-only country — bring clean USD bills (see Can I pay by credit card in Syria?).

·Toiletries: Bring what you need, as some brands may not be available locally.

Most of our Syria tours include daily breakfast, along with select lunches and dinners depending on the itinerary. On our group tours, at least one traditional dinner is always included — often in a family-run restaurant or historic setting. For private tours, meals can be added or customized based on your preferences.

As for the food? Syria is a culinary treasure. From sizzling kebabs and fresh tabbouleh to Aleppine stews rich with spice and pomegranate, you’ll taste dishes shaped by thousands of years of history. Street food like falafel and manakish (thyme bread) is both delicious and affordable, and every region has its own flavor.

We happily accommodate vegetarian travelers, and on request

All ToursSyria tours include private, air-conditioned vehicles driven by experienced local drivers. Whether you’re on a private tour or part of a small group (max 10 guests), your transport is safe, reliable, and well-suited to the journey.

We typically use modern SUVs, or clean, comfortable minibuses depending on your group size and itinerary. All vehicles are fully insured, and your driver is familiar with the local roads, checkpoints, and logistics across Syria — from the mountains of Maaloula to the desert roads of Palmyra.

If you’re entering from Beirut or Amman, our team arranges your full transfer to Damascus, no need to worry about transportation or border coordination.

Yes — in many cases, you can join a Syria tour on short notice, especially now that visa on arrival is available for all nationalities. At ToursSyria, we regularly assist travelers who decide to visit just days before departure.

As of 2025, Syria offers multiple visa-on-arrival options, ranging from 15 days to 6 months, making spontaneous travel easier than ever.

If you're already in Beirut or Amman, we can quickly arrange your border pickup, subject to availability. Our small group tours (max 10 people) fill up fast, so early contact is still recommended when possible.

For ultimate flexibility, consider a private Syria tour — ideal for last-minute bookings, custom pacing, and personalized travel support.

All ToursSyria guides speak fluent English and Arabic — and some also speak French, Spanish, or German. When you book your tour, just let us know your preferred language, and we’ll do our best to match you with the right guide.

Our guides are professional, licensed, and deeply knowledgeable — many have years of experience leading cultural, historical, and religious tours across Syria. More than just translators, they’re storytellers, cultural ambassadors, and your trusted companions throughout your journey.

Syria is a conservative country, and dressing respectfully is essential — especially when visiting religious or rural areas. There’s no strict uniform, but modest clothing is expected for both men and women.

For women:

·Wear tops that cover your shoulders and chest

·Pants or skirts should cover the knees

·A headscarf is only required when entering mosques or certain churches/monasteries

For men:

·Avoid shorts when visiting mosques or traditional areas

·T-shirts and long pants are appropriate in most settings

You do not need to cover your hair in public unless entering religious sites, and Western-style clothing is generally accepted in urban areas like Damascus and Aleppo — as long as it’s modest.

We’ll always advise you on what to wear based on your daily itinerary — from the old city of Damascus to desert temples in Palmyra.

Yes — internet access is available in most cities across Syria, though it can be slow or unreliable at times. Many hotels and cafés in Damascus, Aleppo, Homs, and other major cities offer Wi-Fi, but speeds may be limited and certain websites or apps can be restricted.

To help you stay connected on the road, our tour guides carry a portable Wi-Fi modem and share internet access with guests whenever coverage is available — especially during long drives or in areas without hotel Wi-Fi.

If you’d like your own connection, we can assist you with purchasing a local SIM card and guide you on using a VPN for smoother browsing during your Syria travel experience.

International SIM cards and roaming services generally do not work in Syria due to ongoing sanctions and network restrictions. If you want to use your phone during your trip, we recommend purchasing a local Syrian SIM card upon arrival.

We can assist you with:

·Getting a local SIM (MTN or Syriatel)

Coverage is generally good in major cities like Damascus, Aleppo, Homs, and Hama, but can be weak or unavailable in remote areas like Palmyra or desert regions.

Yes — while much of Syria is open for tourism, certain regions remain restricted due to security concerns or military presence

At ToursSyria, we only operate in regions that are safe, accessible, and approved for tourism by Syrian authorities. Every itinerary is built with real-time awareness of current conditions — and we avoid all areas that may pose risk to our guests.

Popular destinations like Damascus, Aleppo, Homs, Maaloula, Palmyra, Krak des Chevaliers, Apamea, and Saydnaya are open and welcoming to visitors.

Our guides stay updated daily on local developments. You’ll always know where you’re going — and why it’s the right time to be there.

Yes — during your tour with ToursSyria, you’ll have access to both electricity and hot water throughout your stay. In major cities like Damascus, Aleppo, and Homs, we partner with carefully selected 4- and 5-star hotels that offer high-quality service, reliable power, and modern amenities — including hot showers, heating, and comfortable beds.

While occasional power cuts can happen due to Syria’s ongoing recovery, the properties we work with are equipped with backup generators or solar systems to ensure your comfort is never compromised.

Hot water is typically available around the clock, especially during morning and evening hours. If there are any supply issues in remote regions, our team will always keep you informed and ensure alternatives are provided.

Staying in touch with loved ones during your Syria trip is absolutely possible — with a few helpful tips. Most of our selected hotels and guesthouses offer Wi-Fi, and your guide will also carry a portable Wi-Fi modem to help you stay connected on the road when coverage allows.

For more reliable communication, many travelers choose to:

·Use apps like WhatsApp, Signal, or Telegram over Wi-Fi

·Purchase a local SIM card with data (we assist with setup)

·Bring a VPN to access any apps or sites that may be restricted

Keep in mind that internet speeds can be slower than what you're used to, and coverage may drop in remote areas — especially outside major cities like Damascus, Aleppo, or Homs.

Yes — many families have traveled with us to Syria, and we’re happy to welcome children on both private and custom tours. Our itineraries can be adjusted to suit younger travelers, with more relaxed pacing, shorter drive times, and family-friendly activities when needed.

Syria’s warm hospitality extends to kids — locals are often especially welcoming to families, and children are treated with kindness and curiosity wherever you go.

We take safety seriously and ensure that:

·Your transportation is private and reliable

·Hotels are vetted for cleanliness and comfort

·We accommodate special requests like extra beds or dietary needs

For families, we recommend private tours to allow for flexible timing, longer rest stops, and personalized experiences that both adults and kids can enjoy.

Absolutely — custom tours are one of our specialties. Whether you’re interested in ancient history, religious landmarks, Syrian cuisine, or just want to travel at your own pace, ToursSyria designs tailor-made itineraries built around what matters most to you.

Custom tours can include:

·Flexible dates and pacing

·Unique stops like lesser-known monasteries, villages, or archaeological sites

·Specific themes: Christian heritage, Syrian food tours, civil war sites, or UNESCO highlights

·Added experiences like meals with local families, photo walks, or multi-day cultural stays

You’ll travel with a private guide and driver, and we’ll handle all logistics, from your visa-on-arrival to hand-picked accommodations and border transfers.

Custom tours are ideal for solo travelers, photographers, academics, families, or anyone seeking a deeper Syria travel experience.

Our Syria group tours attract curious, respectful, and well-traveled guests from around the world — often solo travelers, history lovers, photographers, and culturally minded explorers.

We keep our groups small (max 10 travelers) to ensure a personal, immersive experience. Guests ages range from their late 20s to 60s, with a shared interest in history, culture, and connecting with the real Syria beyond the headlines.

·Many join us from countries like Germany, the UK, France, the US, and Australia

·Solo travelers are warmly welcomed and often become fast friends with fellow guests

·Couples and small friend groups also enjoy the social, easygoing vibe of our tours

Yes — Syria is home to some of the world’s oldest and most significant religious landmarks, and many are open and welcoming to visitors. Whether you're interested in Christian, Islamic, or multi-faith heritage, our tours include deeply meaningful spiritual sites.

Popular stops include:

·Saydnaya & Maaloula — sacred Christian towns with ancient monasteries and churches

·Umayyad Mosque in Damascus — one of the oldest and grandest mosques in the Islamic world

·Krak des Chevaliers — a Crusader castle once occupied by both Christian knights and Muslim forces

·Saint Moses the Abyssinian Monastery (Deir Mar Musa) — a stunning hilltop monastery with deep interfaith significance

Our guides provide cultural context and handle etiquette guidance (like dress codes and entry rules) so that you can visit these spaces with confidence and respect.

Yes — photography is allowed in most public areas, historical sites, and cultural landmarks in Syria, but it’s important to follow local etiquette and restrictions. As your guides, we’ll always let you know when it’s appropriate to take photos — and when it’s best to ask or avoid it.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

·Allowed: Tourist sites, landscapes, architecture, markets, and food scenes are generally fine to photograph.

·Ask first: Always ask permission before taking photos of local people — especially women, soldiers, or shopkeepers.

·Avoid: Do not take photos near military checkpoints, government buildings, or police. This can lead to questioning or confiscation of your device.

Our guides will help you navigate what’s allowed so you can capture your Syria travel experience safely and respectfully.

Booking your Syria tour with ToursSyria is easy and fully personalized. Whether you’re joining a small group or planning a custom private trip, we guide you every step of the way.

Here’s how it works:

1.    Contact us directly via WhatsApp or email — we respond quickly and personally.

2.    Let us know your travel dates, interests, and preferred entry point — whether you're arriving via Beirut, Amman, or directly into Damascus International Airport.

3.    We’ll reply within one hour with a proposed itinerary and pricing.

4.    Once confirmed, we take care of your visa-on-arrival approval, accommodation, permits, and full border transfers if you're coming from Beirut or Amman.

There’s no booking engine — just real communication with local experts who care about your comfort, safety, and Syria travel experience.

If you're flexible on dates, let us know — we can recommend the best group departure or custom route based on the season and festivals

We recommend booking your Syria tour at least 2 to 4 weeks in advance — especially if you're joining a group tour or traveling during peak seasons like spring, autumn, or the Christmas holidays. This gives us time reserve your accommodations, and any special experiences you’d like to include.

However, thanks to the new visa-on-arrival system for all nationalities, we can also arrange tours on short notice — sometimes in just a few days — especially for private or custom itineraries.

Yes — we do offer Syria tours during Ramadan and other major holidays, and traveling during these times can offer a unique and meaningful cultural experience.

During Ramadan, you’ll notice a slower pace in the mornings, lively evenings after sunset, and a special spirit throughout the country. Restaurants may have limited service during daylight hours, but hotels and tourist sites remain open, and iftar meals (evening breaking of the fast) offer a warm window into Syrian hospitality.

We also operate tours during:

·Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha (Islamic holidays)

·Christmas season — especially popular in Saydnaya, Maaloula, and Old Damascus

·New Year and other local festivals

We adjust daily itineraries to local rhythms during Ramadan — for example, touring in the late afternoon.

Yes — female tour guides are available specifically for solo female travelers who request one. At ToursSyria, we understand that cultural sensitivity and personal comfort are essential, and we’re committed to creating a safe, respectful environment for every guest.

Our female guides are licensed, experienced, and offer added reassurance for women traveling alone. While this option is not available for group tours or male travelers, it’s a thoughtful service we provide to support solo female guests who prefer a woman guide.

If you're a solo female traveler, just let us know when booking — we’ll gladly arrange a female guide for all or part of your journey, depending on availability and route.

As of now, 1 US Dollar is roughly equal to 10,000 Syrian Pounds (SYP) — but keep in mind that the exchange rate in Syria can fluctuate frequently due to open-market conditions.

At ToursSyria, we help you exchange money at trusted local currency offices with fair rates. There’s no need to worry about finding a place or getting overcharged — your guide will assist you as part of the tour experience.

No problem — if your flight is delayed, we’ll adjust your pickup and border transfer accordingly. At ToursSyria, we monitor your arrival closely and stay in touch via WhatsApp or email to coordinate your transfer in real time.

Whether you're landing in Beirut, Amman, or Damascus, we’ll reschedule your driver and make any necessary updates to your itinerary. If needed, we can also rearrange hotel check-ins, meal timing, or even shift your tour’s starting point to ensure you don’t miss key experiences.

Please share your final flight details and arrival time with us as early as possible — and keep your phone or email accessible so we can contact you during travel

Journalists and researchers are welcome — but you must notify us in advance, as Syria requires additional approvals for media professionals. The process is different from standard tourism and may involve extra permits, background checks, or formal coordination with authorities.

At ToursSyria, we’ve assisted academics, authors, documentary researchers, and NGO visitors, but transparency is key. If you plan to publish, film, interview locals, or produce any content during your stay, we’ll guide you through what’s possible — and what’s restricted.

No — if you're visiting Syria as a tourist, you do not need any pre‑approval or advance paperwork. As of 2025, Syria offers visa on arrival for all nationalities, and you can receive your visa directly at the border or airport.

There’s no need to visit an embassy, submit forms, or wait for authorization — just bring your valid passport and cash to pay the visa fee on arrival. Our team will assist you with entry procedures as part of your tour.

However, pre‑approval is still required for certain categories, such as:

·Journalists and media professionals

·Researchers or academics

·Documentary filmmakers or photographers

·Anyone bringing drones or professional filming gear

If you fall into one of these categories, please notify us in advance so we can guide you through the correct process.

For regular tourists, entering Syria is now simpler than ever — just book your tour, bring your passport, and we’ll be waiting at the border or airport to welcome you.

Yes — many of our itineraries include Syria’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Syria is home to some of the oldest and most significant cultural landmarks in the world, and we make sure you don’t just see them — you understand their story.

Depending on your route, our tours include:

·Ancient City of Damascus – the world’s oldest continuously inhabited capital

·Ancient City of Aleppo – with its majestic citadel and historic souks

·Palmyra – once a vital trading city on the Silk Road, rising from the desert

·Crac des Chevaliers – one of the best-preserved Crusader castles on Earth

·Ancient Villages of Northern Syria (also called the "Dead Cities")

·Qal'at Salah El-Din (Saladin’s Fortress), upon request

Each of these sites is woven into your journey with expert guiding, cultural context, and the time to truly take them in.

All of our group and private tours include at least 3 UNESCO-listed sites — and we can create a full UNESCO-focused itinerary on request.

Absolutely — we specialize in custom itineraries that explore Syria’s deep religious heritage, whether you're interested in early Christianity, Islamic history, or interfaith landmarks. Syria is one of the most spiritually rich countries in the world, home to sacred sites for Christians and Muslims alike.

Christian heritage highlights:

·Maaloula – where Aramaic is still spoken and ancient monasteries cling to the cliffs

·Saydnaya – a revered pilgrimage site with the Virgin Mary icon

·Saint Moses the Abyssinian Monastery (Deir Mar Musa)

·The Old Churches of Aleppo and Damascus

Islamic heritage highlights:

·Umayyad Mosque in Damascus – one of the most important mosques in Islam

·Sayyida Zainab Shrine (upon request)

·Historic mosques and schools in Aleppo, Hama, and Homs

Your tour can be tailored to match your faith background or spiritual interests, with time for prayer, reflection, and local religious traditions.

Let us know your focus — whether it's Christian roots, Islamic scholarship, or sites important to both traditions — and we’ll design a respectful, enriching journey.

Yes — we offer 24/7 airport pickups from Beirut, Amman, or Damascus, no matter what time your flight arrives. Whether you land early morning or late at night, our trusted driver will be there to greet you and assist with your transfer to Syria.

·From Beirut or Amman: We arrange a private transfer to Damascus, including all border support, even during night hours.

·From Damascus Airport: You’ll be met upon arrival and taken directly to your hotel.

We stay in touch via WhatsApp or Email to coordinate everything in real time and ensure a smooth welcome — even after midnight.

 If your flight is delayed or rescheduled, just let us know. We’re flexible and always adjust your pickup time accordingly.

Bringing drones or professional filming equipment into Syria is allowed with prior government approval. These items are subject to strict regulations and may be confiscated at the border if not pre-approved through official channels.

This applies to:

·Drones (of any size, including for hobby use)

·Professional camera rigs or large lenses

·Stabilizers, gimbals, or audio recording gear

·Filming or media production kits

If you're a photographer, filmmaker, journalist, or researcher, please notify us in advance — we’ll prepare the prior approval for you based on your intended use and travel dates.

Standard DSLR or mirrorless cameras for personal travel photography are usually fine — but always check with us before packing large or professional gear.