Getting Around Syria is one of the most important things to understand when planning a visit to the country. Whether you arrive by air, cross a land border, or travel between cities, knowing how transportation works will help you move confidently and efficiently.
Syria offers affordable and practical travel options, including buses, shared taxis, and local transport, making it easier than many travelers expect to explore. Getting Around Syria guide covers everything you need to know—from arrival and city transport to intercity travel tips.
Arriving in Syria
Most visitors enter Syria either by land or by air. Damascus International Airport, located around 25 km southeast of the capital, is the main airport serving international travelers. Taxis are available outside the terminal, but arranging airport pickup through your hotel or a trusted contact is often more reliable.
Land crossings are also common. The Masnaa border between Lebanon and Syria is the busiest, with frequent buses and shared taxis operating between Beirut and Damascus. These routes are affordable and widely used by both locals and visitors.
Getting Around Syria (In Damascus)
Damascus is the country’s main transportation hub. While traffic congestion exists, especially during peak hours, moving around the city is generally straightforward.
Taxis
Taxis are widely available and inexpensive. Most do not use meters, so agreeing on the fare before the ride is essential. Showing your destination written in Arabic can be very helpful. Short rides usually cost between 20–50 New Syrian Pounds.
Ride-Hailing Apps
Local apps such as Yalla Taxi and Onsy operate similarly to Uber, offering fixed prices and easier communication—especially useful for visitors.
Minibuses
Known locally as microbuses or service, these vehicles are the backbone of public transport. They are extremely cheap and run on fixed routes, though signage is limited. This option suits travelers comfortable with asking locals for guidance.
Intercity Travel in Syria
Traveling between cities like Damascus, Homs, Hama, Aleppo, and Latakia is affordable and reliable, with several options depending on comfort and time.
Intercity Buses
Private bus companies operate frequent services between major cities. Buses are usually air-conditioned, and tickets are inexpensive. For example, a trip from Damascus to Homs takes about 2.5 hours.
Shared Taxis (“Service”)
Shared taxis are one of the fastest ways to travel between cities. Each car carries four to five passengers and departs once full. They cost more than buses but save time and offer flexibility.
Car Rental
Car rental is available but less common for foreign visitors. Road signs are mostly in Arabic, and driving conditions vary. If you choose this option, an international driving permit is required and confidence behind the wheel is essential.
Tips for Travelers
To make Getting Around Syria safe and smooth, keep these tips in mind:
- Always carry a copy of your passport and visa, as checkpoints are common.
- Avoid traveling between cities at night unless you have a trusted driver.
- Bring water and snacks for long trips—services can be limited.
- Ask locals or hotel staff for route advice; Syrians are generally very helpful.
- Get a local SIM card to use Google Maps and stay connected while Getting Around Syria.
Conclusion
Getting Around Syria is straightforward once you understand the basics. Although modern systems like digital maps or multilingual signage are limited, the country remains very accessible thanks to its taxis, buses, and shared rides. With good planning and an open attitude, Getting Around Syria can be one of the most rewarding parts of your trip—allowing you to experience the culture, hospitality, and beauty of the country at your own pace.
See Also: Accommodation in Syria
To explore further, visit our Facebook Syria collection for rare images and cultural highlights.
