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Travel Guide
Visiting Syria
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Do Not Travel
UK FCDO: Regional escalation Regional escalation poses significant security risks and has led to travel disruption. British nationals should: read If you’re affected by a crisis abroad - GOV.UK. This includes guidance on “how to prepare for a crisis” with suggestions on what you might include in your emergency supplies and “what to do in a crisis” follow advice from the local authorities and sign up to receive information and alerts sign up to FCDO Travel Advice email alerts monitor local and internation
Updated 2026-02-27
Discover
Top Attractions in Syria
The most iconic and unmissable experiences this country has to offer.
UNESCO World Heritage
Umayyad Mosque
Also called the Great Mosque of Damascus, this is one of the oldest and largest mosques in the world, built between 705 and 715 on a site that earlier held a Roman temple and a Christian cathedral. You step into a vast marble courtyard where the prayer hall walls glow with golden mosaics depicting gardens and rivers. A shrine within is traditionally held to contain the head of John the Baptist, drawing visitors of many faiths.
UNESCO World Heritage
Krak des Chevaliers
This hilltop fortress is widely regarded as one of the best-preserved Crusader castles in the world, expanded by the Knights Hospitaller in the 12th and 13th centuries. You cross the moat and climb through concentric stone walls, vaulted halls, and a great gallery to reach ramparts with sweeping views over the surrounding valley. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it remains a remarkable record of medieval military architecture.
Wise
Your bank marks up every USD you spend in Syria. Wise doesn't.
- No foreign transaction fees
- Free ATM withdrawals up to your limit
- Pay in local currency at the real rate
4.8 ★ App Store·4.8 ★ Google Play
Airalo eSIM
Your phone plan was built for home. This one was built for Syria.
- No SIM swapping
- No data roaming charges
- Active in minutes
4.7 ★ App Store·4.6 ★ Google Play
Health & Safety
Health & Emergency Info
Before You Travel
Before you travel check that: your destination can provide the healthcare you may need you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant. Emergency medical number Emergency services in Syria have been severely impacted due to the 14-year conflict and could be unresponsive. Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment. Vaccine recommendations and health risks At least 8 weeks before your trip: check the latest vaccine recommendat
Full health advice (FCDO) →Emergency Numbers
Police112
Ambulance110
Fire113
Health information sourced from UK FCDO. Always consult a travel health professional before departure.
Practical Info
Travel Essentials
Travel Guide
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Syria
Most governments currently advise against all travel to Syria due to the ongoing conflict and extremely dangerous security situation. Check your government's official travel advisory and the Syria page at Yoogo before making any plans.
Syria uses the Syrian pound (SYP). The currency has lost significant value due to the conflict and economic crisis. US dollars and euros are widely used in practice. Conditions on the ground change frequently.
Syria has experienced prolonged civil war since 2011, and large areas remain affected by active conflict, instability, and the risk of terrorism, kidnapping, and unexploded ordnance. Most governments advise against all travel to Syria. If you have compelling reasons to travel, consult your government's advisory and register with your embassy.
Infrastructure across much of Syria has been severely damaged by conflict. Road travel carries significant safety risks in many areas. Access to certain regions may be controlled by various armed groups. Any travel planning must be based on the most current security assessments available.
Before the conflict began in 2011, Syria's peak travel season was spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when temperatures were mild and the ancient sites of Damascus, Aleppo, Palmyra, and the Crusader castle Krak des Chevaliers were accessible to visitors.
Arabic is the official language. Kurdish is spoken in the north-east. English and French have limited use, primarily in educated urban circles and some business settings.
Consult a travel health clinic before any travel to Syria. The conflict has severely disrupted public health infrastructure, and disease risks are elevated in affected areas. Up-to-date routine vaccinations are essential, and additional vaccines may be recommended depending on the areas you plan to visit.
Historically, tipping was customary in Syrian restaurants and for services such as guides and taxi drivers, with around 10% being typical at restaurants. Conditions on the ground have changed significantly since 2011.
Mobile networks operate in government-controlled areas, but coverage and reliability are highly variable and differ significantly by region. International roaming may not function in all areas. Connectivity conditions change frequently with the security situation.
Syria is a predominantly Muslim country. Dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites. Hospitality is deeply embedded in Syrian culture, and guests are traditionally treated with great generosity. The country has a rich history spanning millennia, and its cultural heritage sites are of world significance, though many have suffered damage during the conflict.