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• Syrigos Travel, Attica, Greece

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Syrigos Travel

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Lucas Syrigos

210-3221319

210-3223000

[email protected]

www.syrigostravel.gr

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Interview – Sabre’s Andreas Syrigos Highlights Significance of Personalized Travel, Cloud Technologies

Andreas Syrigos

After two challenging years for the travel and tourism industry, Sabre sees the beginning of a new chapter in travel technology – a new chapter that will revolutionize the meaning of personalization , says Andreas Syrigos , the company’s regional director based in Greece .

A leading software and technology provider that powers the global travel industry, Sabre is ready to offer its travel partners not only the tools, but also cloud-based platforms, which will enhance the overall travel experience.

“It is essential to make travel as easy as possible for customers, regardless of the circumstances,” Syrigos tells GTP Headlines in an interview in which he identifies new trends for travel in 2023.

With more than 20 years of technology industry experience and a track record for helping travel agencies succeed in today’s highly competitive marketplace, Syrigos highlights the need to increase the adoption of cloud technologies .

“They are vital to the survival and growth of the travel industry,” he says, adding that cloud services allow travel companies to be flexible and quick to adapt “because they are scalable”.

Moreover, in this interview Syrigos gives us a sneak preview of Sabre’s plans to introduce new solutions to Greek travel agencies in the near future.

• GTP: Andreas, there is no doubt that the Covid-19 pandemic presented the greatest challenge ever faced in the travel industry. A new customer experience in travel was created post-COVID. How did Sabre adapt during the last two years?

Andreas Syrigos: These last two years have been a difficult period and what has really changed is our relationship with the customer. So, first and foremost , in the case of travel agencies, we were flexible with our business partners, because the travel industry practically stopped. Next , we decided to invest heavily in technology, as we believe that adapting needs motion. To fulfill this new customer experience demanded by travellers, with the complexity of the workflows that it entails, with the amount of automation that’s required, with the amount of flexibility that both the corporate traveler and the leisure traveler and the combination of both need in travel, technology needs most definitely to be at the center. And we’re not just investing in it now, we’ve invested in it, even in 2022 to make personalized travel a reality.

Photo source: Sabre

• GTP: In a scenario where exception is the order of the day, can companies, by automating processes, maintain pre, on, and post-trip efficiency? How?

Andreas Syrigos: This scenario has been caused by the pandemic as it has increased the need for travel companies to be more agile and adapt quickly to new situations. Therefore, they are focusing more on products and processes that can meet customers’ new needs and renew their confidence in the travel experience. It is essential to make travel as easy as possible for customers , regardless of the circumstances. To efficiently manage the new world of travel and deal with its unpredictability, travel companies must act swiftly but take a long-term view to optimize their processes and systems. This is done by removing friction through intelligent use of data and automation, which would help improve the travel experience and optimize revenues for travel companies.

• GTP: Is real time technology the crux of travel? What is the state of the art?

• GTP: Backoffice side, what has changed in this two-year period? What adjustments are needed and what is the current difficulty?

Andreas Syrigos: As the recovery process begins to kick in, it is critical that we increase the adoption of cloud technologies . They are vital to the survival and growth of the travel industry. Cloud services allow travel companies to be flexible and quick to adapt because they are scalable. Cloud computing services can also be used to analyze data to identify future travel trends and generate valuable information that can be used to offer better deals and discounts to customers. Cloud technology will continue to play a significant role in improving the customer experience and generating revenue for the travel industry in the future.

• GTP: What does it mean to offer better travel experiences today?

Andreas Syrigos: First and foremost, travelers are looking for support, security and convenience . Travelers will demand greater ease of use of the tools and services provided by travel agencies, as well as the ability to make reservations and payments securely online. They value the ability of agencies to customize and tailor travel plans to their specific needs and preferences, as well as last-minute cancellations without disrupting other carriers. Second, there is a new face of business travel , as the rise of remote work means the ability to work from a vacation location or travel destination. There is a blurred line between business and leisure travel, and this presents an opportunity for the industry to use technology to offer tailored experiences that take advantage of this trend. And last but not least, a rapid pace of change. Advances in information technology have led to the availability of mobile apps and online tools that make it easier to book and manage flights and track itinerary, and there has also been an increase in the provision of personalized travel services and “nonstop” travel options for business travelers. The current study takes into account the changes that travel agencies are making to embrace this new reality.

• GTP: Is there a perceived need for implementation in business digitization? Is there still a gap to be bridged in Greece?

Andreas Syrigos: Technology was one of the reasons why travel agencies and GDS systems were born. Travel agents experience how their customers have an ever-increasing need for simplicity, personalization, and agile solutions, every day. So, I do not believe that travel professionals do not perceive the need for further digitization and automation. On the contrary, they are helping to promote the need for advanced technologies in the industry. Sabre, on the other hand, is providing a number of solutions that can leverage real-time data to help travel agencies meet the new needs of their customers.

• GTP: How is the online presence of Greek travel agents today? Do you see them evolving along with technology?

Andreas Syrigos: Travel agents experience firsthand how their customers are in an ever-growing-need for simplicity, customization and agile solutions. They perceive the need for further digitalization and automation. At the same time, some travel agencies have been downsized due to financial difficulties caused by the pandemic and are shifting their focus to high-yield customers. Recruiting experienced staff quickly to capitalize on recovery opportunities is also a great challenge, that’s why travel agencies are increasing their focus on investing in new technology to improve their position in market and profitability . Moreover, the travel recovery is happening faster than expected and with passenger numbers increasing, travelers more confident about longer-term plans, and emerging destinations stepping in to replace geographies that remain hard to access. All these changes brought about by the pandemic have increased the need for travel companies to be more agile and adapt quickly to new situations. They are therefore focusing more on products and processes that can satisfy customers’ new needs and give them renewed confidence in the travel experience. It is essential to make travel as easy as possible for customers – regardless of the circumstances. To efficiently manage the new world of travel and to cope with its unpredictability, travel companies need to act fast, but take a long-term view to optimizing their processes and systems. And this means to evolve and update all businesses in pace with technology .

• GTP: What will be the pillars of the future in (business) travel? Can you name five macro-trends?

Andreas Syrigos: A recent study by Sabre polling more than 500 decision makers from airlines and travel agencies revealed some interesting trends. Respondents believe that : (1) Knowing the needs of customers before they do will be a must. Doing so requires having the ability to access and process the data available for each customer in order to offer personalized service in a short period of time. (2) Offering targeted and differentiated communications for each customer is expected by travelers. Sending the right offer, to the right person, at the right time, is an art that must be honed to meet the demands that all global travelers will soon demand. (3) Offer efficient processes, as more than 70 percent of travel agents use their time on administrative tasks that do not generate profits. To solve this obstacle, it is important to have automated platforms to free up this underutilized time. (4) Travelers will also demand error-free and seamless compliance. If processes are to be efficient, the results must undoubtedly be nimble and final, seamless. Passengers expect that the resolution of their problems will not be a reason to interfere with their plans. (5) Travel Agencies should provide a seamless experience across all channels. Travel agencies and their ability to provide excellent customer service will depend primarily on their ability to process large amounts of information. Data that will enable them to provide the best offer to their customer.

Infographic from Sabre’s recent “Agency Airline Study”

• GTP: What challenge will you be engaged in the near future?

Andreas Syrigos: I believe we are at the beginning of a new chapter in travel technology that will revolutionize the meaning of personalization. At Sabre we are ready to offer our travel partners not only the tools, but also cloud-based platforms that will enhance the overall travel experience. I think the challenge will be to accelerate the adoption of these technologies so that our travel partners can provide ever better customer service and higher revenues and become leaders in their respective segments or markets.

• GTP: On closing this interview, I would like to ask you a question on Greek tourism, which made an impressive comeback in 2022 following the disruption that Covid created. Considering your experience in the Greek market, how do you see Greek tourism progressing in the immediate future? What are Sabre’s future plans for the Greek market?

Andreas Syrigos: All signs are positive for Greek tourism in 2023. Forecast and demand remains strong with high interest for most of Greek destinations. If the macro-economic environment remains stable, 2023 will be another great year for the Greek tourism sector. It now carries a strong brand with increased interest of investment . Sabre’s future plans include a revamped strategy around introducing new solutions for Greek travel agencies . Our recent acquisition of Conferma Pay reignited the interest around virtual payments . Mastercard is now onboard, and we will be actively promoting Sabre Virtual Payments solution this year. In addition, we are revamping our Content Services for Lodging portfolio and will share some exciting news around it very soon. This is another opportunity for us in the Greek market and specifically around our hotel business. Finally, we will keep investing in technology through our R&D effort along with Google to promote automation, efficiency and personalization. A series of agency products will introduce Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning powered by Google technologies to help our customers lead in this space. We are continuing to expand our NDC footprint with more airlines joining Sabre Marketplace this year and support our agency community with more content. There is a lot of optimism around 2023 overall and the Greek market specifically.

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Best things to do in Syros, Greece – Travel Guide

Side step the crowds, and visit Syros island in Greece – The Lady of the Cyclades. Here's the best things to do in Syros Greece.

Syros Travel Guide

Surrounded by heavy hitters such as Santorini, Mykonos and Milos, it's not surprising that Syros gets overlooked, especially by first time visitors to Greece.

In a way it's a good thing, because it's only after you've visited some of the other Cyclades Greek islands that you realise what a hidden gem Syros is.

It's often described as being Regal, perhaps because the blue-domed churches that tower over the Ermoupoli's buildings seem like crowns.

The endless marble and neoclassical architecture gives the island, and particularly Ermoupoli an almost aristocratic feel. It's not surprising the tourist office dubs Syros The Lady of the Cyclades.

Syros might not be the most famous or visited island in Greece, but it's certainly one of the most memorable.

In this travel blog I'll share my experiences in Syros Greece so you can discover more about this fantastic destination in Greece.

Why I visited Syros

Truth be told, I found myself on Syros island more or less by accident. I'd spent some time on Mykonos , and originally my next Greek island hopping destination was to be Santorini .

Then, I found out that all the mid-week ferries from Mykonos to Santorini were cancelled that week. Oh dear!

A quick look at the map and what connections were available saw me getting hold of some ferry tickets to the island of Syros. A few hours later, I arrived!

Where to stay in Syros

It seemed that there were three logical areas to stay when on the island. The first would be in Ermoupoli itself (the main town), another would be in Ano Syros (the upper town), and the last would be by one of the beaches.

Although visiting the Syros beaches was something I wanted to do, it wouldn't be the focus of my time on the island. So, I opted to stay just on the outskirts of Ermoupoli.

As I had a car, I chose somewhere with nearby parking, and having a vehicle would also make it easier to visit some of the points of interest on the island later.

I've included a map of Syros below which shows where you can find accommodation and hotels. There's a wide choice such as family friendly hotels with a swimming pool, boutique accommodation, and budget choices ideal for backpackers and islands hoppers.

Top things to do in Syros

I planned to spend three nights in Syros, so there was no way I could expect to see all that it had to offer.

Instead, I made a condensed list of the main things to do in Syros I should be able to manage. These included:

• See a sunset on one of the beaches in Syros
• Walk around Ano Syros (Upper Syros)
• Visit the Archaeological Museum in Ermoupoli
• Check out the Vaporia neighbourhood
• Admire the neoclassical buildings in Ermoupoli
• Visit the Apollon Theatre
• See the famous churches (and probably be confused by their names)

That seemed more than enough to be getting on with, and I was pretty sure I would stumble across other things as I walked around!

Finding a sunset beach

We arrived on an afternoon ferry, and once settled into the apartment we we staying at, it felt natural to take a drive and check out one of the beaches.

It was about 17.00 when we left, but the summer days are long in Greece, and sunset wouldn't be until about 20.30. This would give plenty of time to find a beach, take a swim, read a book and wait for the sunset.

We ended up at Delfini beach, which was a good call I think. A very peaceful place to watch the sun go down. I even made a new friend!

First Full Day in Syros

We didn't start the day with an exact itinerary, but the general idea was to spend a few hours wandering around Ermoupoli sightseeing in the morning/early afternoon, and then head to a beach later in the afternoon.

Ermoupolis city

Ermoupolis (sometimes written Hermoupolis), is the largest settlement on the island. It is also the capital of the Cyclades islands and the South Aegean region.

Founded in the 1820s, it became an important commercial and industrial center in Greece, which goes to explain how some of that wealth was transferred into the aesthetics of the city in the form of the. Town Hall, plazas, neoclassical buildings and wide streets.

Oh, and marble. It's everywhere! Marble-paved sidewalks, marble buildings, marble churches. You get the picture.

By the way, if the name of the city sounds familiar, it is because it is named after the Greek deity Hermes.

Miaouli Square

Our apartment was about a ten minute walk away from Miaouli Square in Ermoupoli. This is a central point, and all of the important places of interest are within comfortable walking distance from here.

Miaouli Square is about as far removed from your typical Cycladic architecture that can be imagined, it's sheer size and open space being a rarity. It's also got a line of palm trees!

The square or plaza itself is named after Andreas Miaoulis, a hero of the Greek War of Independence. His statue can be found in front of the dominating Town Hall.

The important public buildings can be found located close to this central square, including the Archaeological Museum and city hall.

Whilst the Archaeological Museum is attached to the back of the Town Hall, we didn't visit on this occasion as it was closed at the time. Planning to return tomorrow instead, we then strolled on to…

Agios Nikolaos

The huge, dominating Agios Nikolaos (Church of Saint Nicholas), is an Orthodox church that once inside reminded me very much of a cathedral.

It's stunning both inside and out, and one of the three ‘big' churches of Syros. Saint Nicholas is the patron saint of sailors, as well as the city. You'll find more than one church on the island named after him. None are as magnificent as this though!

The next area we visited off from Miaouli was Vaporia. This means ‘ship' in Greek, and has historic connections with the maritime trading past.

Today, the area is well known for its architectural splendour, which includes mansions, archways, and neoclassical buildings.

From here, you can also get down to sea level at a curious town ‘beach' which had wonderful clear waters.

Asteria Beach

What it lacks in sand, it makes up for twice as much in stunning views! Asteria beach is a curious little stone platform complete with umbrellas, from where you can swim in the clear waters of the bay.

It's also one of the best spots to get photos of the Hermoupolis coastline with all those stunning neo-classical waterside houses.

Waterfront Area

Walking back up the stairs from Asteria Beach, we then headed past the square and to the waterfront area.

Here, restaurants face out to the harbour, a ware house runs down one side, and a shipyard is way over to the right.

There's also another view to the sea facing building of Vaporia from here, which is another photo opportunity!

Lunch at Stin Ithaki Tou Ai

All that walking around builds up an appetite, so it was time to find somewhere for lunch!

Between the waterfront and the square we stumbled upon  Stin Ithaki Tou Ai taverna , which served traditional Greek food. Very tasty cuisine, and we possibly ate a bit too much!! If you want to enjoy a good meal I recommend it.

Sunset beach number 2

It was 15.00 by the time we got into the car to head towards another sunset beach on the other side of the island.

We stopped by a few on the way which didn't really appeal to us, including the famous Galissas Beach, Finikas and a couple others.

We finally settled on Komito beach, where we spent the last few hours of daylight soaking up some rays, taking a swim, and waiting for the sun to set once more.

Day 2 in Syros

After finally settling that our next destination would be Naxos , seeing which ferry companies traveled there, and booking our Sea Jets ferry tickets online, we finally rolled out the apartment at 11.00.

We had decided to go back to the closed museums in Ermoupolis from the day before, and headed to the main plaza once more.

Archaeological Museum Syros

This museum has exhibits which display artifacts found on the island, including from the significant Chalandriani archaeological site as well as Kastri.

It was a place I was looking forward to seeing, as I'd seen some intriguing pictures of ‘frying pans' found at the site.

The museum was small, and took less than a quarter of an hour to see. The frying pans were there, along with other exhibits, and the story behind how the museum was created. Turned out, it must have been one of the oldest museums in Greece!

Apollon Theater

Originally built in the 19th century, the Apollon theatre was renovated in the 90s, and reopened again in 2000. Whilst we weren't fortunate enough to see a play or opera there, you could feel the ambiance all the same!

The boxes are splendid, as is the decor. I hope the photo of the theater does it justice.

Perhaps we'll return one day to see some of the artists performing at the Festival of the Aegean at the Apollo theater!

A drive around Syros Island

After lunch, we had some time to play with, as we'd been informed that climbing up the many stairs of Ano Syros during the heat of the day was harder work than it was worth.

Instead, we postponed our visit to the upper town for later on in the afternoon, and took a drive to parts of the island we hadn't yet see.

We followed the coastline along, drove to the village of Episkopio, and then headed to the northern part of the island. This has a much more wild feel to it, at stark contrast with the south!

Before arriving at Ano Syros, we dropped by the second of the ‘big churches' called Church of the Resurrection of Christ which is on a neighbouring hill.

This is a hill town, with a Catholic Church at the very top, and a settlement seemingly cascading down from it. It's also a mini labyrinth with hundreds of stairs. We were very glad not to have visited earlier in the heat of the day.

Wandering around the narrow streets, we stopped by two museums, one dedicated to the famous Rembetiko musician Markos Vamvakaris , and another containing interesting tools from everyday life from a hundred years ago.

We of course also walked up to the church (Agios Giorgios / Saint George)! The views over the town as we trekked up were definitely worth the effort!

And that, bar a late dinner, more or less concluded our stay in Syros. The next day, we would take the ferry to Naxos. Before I finish this post though, here's a few notes about the beaches on the island.

Best Beaches in Syros

Syros island may not have the world beating beautiful beaches of Mykonos or Milos, but it doesn't mean you can't go for a swim!

There's a choice of organized beaches complete with umbrellas and sometimes sunbeds (without the Mykonian price tag), as well as the unorganized beaches which I personally love the best.

Here's some information on the main Syros beaches.

Delfini Beach

My pick of the beaches in Syros simply because it is a great place to enjoy the sunset. Partially rocky, partially sandy, there is even a small island you can swim out to.

Facilities include a beach canteen with a selection of wallet friendly snacks such as burgers and toasties, and some umbrellas on one side.

It's laid back and friendly (when we visited in June), but you'll need your own wheels to get out to it.

This is considered to be one of the main beaches on the island, but it wasn't really our cup of tea. We drove out to Kini, took a look at the umbrellas, and then decided to head to Delfini instead.

If you prefer this type of beach, with its accompanying music and crowds, you can stay in the area at Kini as there is accommodation available.

Galissas Beach

Arguably the most popular beach resort on the island, Galissas is about 5kms away from Ermoupolis. It's a family-friendly, sandy beach but fully organized.

To be honest, this setting wasn't really us at all, but if you like your beaches with sun-beds, umbrellas and plenty of other people, go here first.

How to get to Syros

Syros island does have an airport, with flights connecting it to Athens and Thessaloniki. At this stage, there are no international flights, or flights to other islands.

Most people tend to reach Syros by ferry. The main port of Syros is located in Ermoupoli, and it has connections with Athens as well as islands in the Cyclades group include Paros, Anafi, Naxos, Santorini, Mykonos, and more.

Ferry schedules can change from year to year, but as the capital of the Cyclades islands, Syros is connected to most of the larger islands in the chain.

You can find a complete list of neighboring islands near Syros here: Ferry connections to and from Syros

When it comes to booking ferry transport, I find that  Ferryhopper  is a good way to both look at ferry connections, and book an e-ticket online.

Athens to Syros Ferry

One of the most popular ways to get to Syros, is by taking the ferry from Piraeus port in Athens .

The Piraeus Syros route is normally covered by two ferry operators, which are SeaJets and Blue Star Ferries.

Find out more here: Ferryhopper

At the time of writing, there were no direct ferry routes from Rafina to Syros. If you did decide to leave from Rafina, you would need to change ferry at Tinos or Mykonos.

This wouldn't be great if you wanted to get to the island directly, but would be a great excuse to visit Tinos. It's one of my favourite islands, and perhaps advisable to go there before it gets ‘too big'!

More here: Taking the ferry from Athens to Syros

Mykonos to Syros Ferry

I took the Mykonos – Syros ferry myself, which was a relatively quick ride of 1 hour and 15 minutes on the Blue Star Paros vessel.

Apparently, the Seajets WorldChampion Jet is even quicker at 25 minutes! It's normally twice the price though.

Santorini to Syros Ferry

You can also travel to Syros from Santorini island. It can be quite a long journey, depending on which ferry is used.

More information here: How to get the Santorini to Syros ferry .

Getting around Syros

As with most Greek islands, it's really handy to have your own vehicle if you want to get to those out of the way places. We had our own car in order to get around, but rentals are available.

If your plan is to stick in Ermoupoli and even explore Ano Syros, you won't need a car at all. If you do want to reach traditional villages and different beaches around the island you can take public buses at very affordable prices.

I heard there is a free bus that takes people to some parts of the city including Ano Syros. As I didn't use it, I can't vouch for its timetable or effectiveness.

FAQ About Syros Island in Greece

Readers planning to enjoy and ideal vacation in Syros often ask questions similar to:

What is Syros Greece known for?

Syros is the administrative center of the Cyclades Islands, and its Neo-classical architecture is renowned. The main town of Ermoupoli was briefly the Greek capital, and the island has been ruled by Romans, Arabs, Franks, and Venetians over the centuries.

Is Syros Greece expensive?

Syros is very affordable when compared to nearby Mykonos and Paros, with even luxury hotels offering good value. Traditional tavernas abound, which means that eating out is a wallet friendly, family friendly affair.

Is Syros a party island?

The island offers nightlife in the form of bars, some clubs and cultural events. Syros wouldn't be described as a party island destination though in the same way that Ios and Mykonos would.

How do you get to Syros Greece?

You can reach Syros by air with direct flights from Athens, and by sea whether on Greek ferries or cruise ships.

What Greek Islands are near Syros?

The closest Greek islands to Syros include Tinos, Mykonos, Kythnos, and Paros.

Is Syros quiet?

Syros is a relatively quiet Greek island in the summer, as it is not really a beach destination. While it doesn't attract the same amount of visitors as Santorini or Mykonos, August is the busiest month in Syros.

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Dave is a travel writer living in Greece since 2015.  He's creates insightful travel guides here on Dave's Travel Pages to help other travelers plan a perfect vacation to destinations in Greece such as this one about Syros. Explore this site for more travel blog posts, road trips guide, and other itineraries to Greece, Europe and beyond.  

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DISCOVER SYROS ISLAND, THE CAPITAL OF THE AMAZING CYCLADES

Located just 2 hours south-east Athens by Fast Ferry or north of Santorini is the capital of the Cyclades Islands, Syros. Also known as Siros or Syra this island is very different from the others in the group with its colourful neo-classical buildings and many impressive Government buildings, museums, theatres and even a casino! This guide to Syros Island covers everything you need to know to make the most of this magical place. It really is one of Europes best-kept secrets!

If you are island hopping in the Cyclades Syros should definitely be on your itinerary.  

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When to visit Syros

Syros is a lesser-visited Greek island, but still an enjoyable place to take a summer vacation. Throughout the year, the weather varies. In the summer months, temperatures can climb to 30°C but generally see averages of 25°C. While in winter, the mercury drops to 12°C.  

If you want to avoid any tourist crowds, find cheaper accommodation, but still have nice weather the best time to visit Syros is in spring and autumn. This time of year sees pleasant temperatures in the low 20Cs/70F, with plenty of sunshine, too.

Further reading: When to visit Greece

 Where is Syros Island?

Syros is in the Cyclades Islands, a group of islands in the Aegean Sea. To be exact, you’ll find it 78 nautical miles southeast of Athens. It’s a medium size island, with an area of 83 square miles.  

Though Syros itself is fairly rural, being the administrative capital of the region it’s home to over 21,000 people and boasts a relatively large port-town capital. Thanks to its location, the island is something of a ferry hub to more northerly islands in the area.

How to get to Syros

There is both an airport and ferry port on Syros making it fairly accessible, and it is a year round destination too.

Flying to Syros

Syros has its own airport with direct flights from Athens taking just 25 minutes. During summer (high season), flights should be booked in advance as there’s only one airline making the trip – though they do fly all year round.

You cannot fly from any other island to Syros island.

Ferry to Syros

With its history as a port of call, Syros is well connected by boat, and reaching it by sea is simple. The ferry to Syros from Piraeus, the main port of Athens, takes between 2.5 and 4 hours depending on which ferry you book.

Syros can also be reached via ferry services from another Athens port, Rafina, which runs from May to October. This daily service takes 1.5 hours.  

There are also a number of different boat connections to many of the other Cycladic islands, such as Mykonos, Tinos and Paros. These are regular services, and make it easy to island-hop around the area. Expect more frequent ferry services in the high season.

Suggested Cyclades itineraries

Syros is a great destination to combine with Mykonos and Santorini as it is situated close to Mykonos and is very different again from both of those iconic islands. 

If you have just 7 days you could do Santorini 2, Mykonos 3, Syros 2 or similar. With 14 days I suggest Santorini 3, Paros or Naxos or Milos 4, Mykonos 3 and Syros 4.

If you are looking for quieter and less expensive islands then combine Syros with the Western Cyclades islands of Kithnos and Serifos or the Eastern Cycladic Islands of Tinos and Andros which are north of Mykonos.

Getting around Syros

There is a bus that services the island and stops at all the main ports and villages. It’s a fun and affordable way to get around the is how many of the locals do it.You can find the timetable HERE .

There are a number of Taxi’s on Syros island and they can usually be found at the airport and port.

If you would like to book ahead or call one up then ring 22810 84222, 22810 86222 or 22810 88222.

Alternatively, book your airport of port transfer here ONLINE .

Car and Scooter rental

Scooters, ATVs and cars can be hired from several places on the islands including both ports.

A small car is a great idea to see some of the more authentic parts of the island including the more remote and interior villages. Book your car HERE .

Further reading : Driving in Greece

Syros Hotels and Houses

Even though it’s one of the lesser-known Greek islands, Syros has a lot to offer. This hidden gem of an island feels like a slice of authentic Greece. The capital of Ermoupolis is a good place to start your adventures.  

This attractive port town, with its beautiful 19th-century buildings and cosmopolitan atmosphere, is full of accommodation options.

The new DIIO Suites have amazing views of the port and are very well priced. Also with amazing views, but this time of Verona bay lined with the gorgeous colourful neo-classical buildings, its hard to beat Pafsilipon Suites . The views, amenities and locations are really quite exceptional and so well priced too compared to some other islands. We stayed in the large rooftop room on a recent visit and did not want to leave! To top it all off it is right above the best beach bar/restaurant on the island, Ciel.

Not far from Pafsilipon and also in the Vaporia area ( arguably the most beautiful in Ermopoulis) is a place called Homey , which has very nice rooms including a 2 bedroom apartment that sleeps 4 which is great for families and couples travelling together.

You can also find hotels such as charming Wind Tales situated high on a hilltop in the medieval twin-town of Ano Syros and, for something really unique, you can also stay there in a windmill!  Anemomylos Windmill which is a fair way from the centre of town but with incredible, panoramic views and decent parking.

If you are looking for a bit of a splurge the stunning Aristide Hotel is a design dream and, in our opinion, one of the most stylish hotels in the Greek Islands.

Galissas is one of the most popular of Syros’ tourist resorts and has one of the best and biggest beaches on the island. It’s located five kilometres from Ermoupolis and is on the western side of the island so the sunsets are wonderful. Here Dolphin Bay Resort is very popular with families and Hotel Benois and Remvi with couples. For something more independent Caviri Apartments , which is surrounded by nature.  

Kinion (Kini) is another nice beach village with a lovely west facing beach. Here you can’t go past Oro Suites which are very chic and modern and only steps from the beach or the lovely Blue Harmony Hotel which is a perennial favourite for good reason.

Aristide Hotel

Anemomylos Windmill

Pafsilipon Suites, private terrace

Pafsilipon Suites room

Syros restaurants and food

Food to try on syros.

Almost anywhere you eat on Syros you’ll be guaranteed a taste of some authentic Greek cuisine. There’s a rich array of regional specialties to sample, making it the ideal place for foodies to indulge and explore.  

You’ll find delicious restaurants not just in Ermoupoli, but scattered across the island in picturesque rural villages and sleepy fishing communities. Restaurants are often high quality but lower in price than on islands such as Mykonos, which comes as a bonus for budget travellers.  

Syros is particularly interesting for food, given its former importance as a regional trading hub. Local specialities include sweets such as loukoumi , which you may know better as Turkish Delight & it’s often enjoyed with a cup of strong coffee.

In tavernas, you can find Greek classics such as moussaka and taramosalata , but there are Syros-specific dishes to try, too.  

Of particular note are salads such as kaparosalata (caper salad) and maindanosalata (parsley salad served with onions, capers and lemon). For something more hearty, you will often find these paired with pies like aetopita (fish and vegetable pie) and marathopita (wild fennel pie).

There are also numerous cheeses to sample. These include the nutty and slightly spicy San Michali (often called “the parmesan of Syros”), which is native to the village of the same name, the creamy petroto,  the smooth kopanisti with its peppery flavour and the tangy (but creamy) xynotyro .  

And when dining in Syros, you should also definitely try the wine which are quite unique and helped along the way by the island’s clay soil and many hours of sunlight. They’re made from the white grapes Assyrtiko and Kountoura .

Syros Taverna, Bars and Cafes

Our favourite traditional tavernas in Ermoupoli include To Tsipouradiko tis Mirsinis , Lute and the Agrotourism Womens Co-Operative of Syros while Sol Grano does outstanding Italian and Kiyo and Dr Wine do modern Greek cuisine so well.

Elsewhere on the island Meltemi and To Kyma in Finikas are not to be missed and Baobab is a great bar to visit there too. It’s worth a drive down to Vari just to have lunch on the waters edge at Enlefko and in Kini the restaurants at Anassa Cycladic Village and Benois Hotel are both outstanding.

For coffee, a light meal and/or breakfast then Gregorys is a great spot to watch the ferrys comining and going in Ermoupoli, while The Corner Cafe and Megaron are both lovely.

They take coffee seriously in Syros with several dedicated coffee houses and roasters in the capital. Don’t miss Mikel Coffee Company and Armadillo Coffee Brewery.

For drinks Ciel Beach Bar is one of the most popular beach bars in the Cyclades for good reason, with its amazing views of the colourful architecture lining the waterfront. Cafe Plous also has amazing views in Ermoupouli as does Boheme del Mar is right on the harbour.

Ciel Beach Bar

Tavernas in Azolimnos village

Things to do on Syros

Syros may not be one of the most popular islands in the Aegean Sea, but it’s still got a lot on offer for the tourists who do make the trip here.

It’s a relaxing, family-friendly place, boasting a string of beautiful beaches, pretty towns and historic architecture to admire. The island’s bountiful countryside provides the ideal place for exploration: cycle, hike, or simply kick back on the beach.

You can easily spend days or weeks just exploring the Capital, Ermoupolis, but also the negighbouring Medieval capital, Ano Syros, is not to be missed. When you arrive by ferry you can see each one crowned with a cathedral on high on each hill.  The one on Ano Syros is catholic and a legacy from Syros’s fascinating history.

Further Reading: Discover Ano Syros

Here are some of the other great things to do on Syros:

Syros Beaches

The most popular beaches in Syros Greece are located on the southern side of the island.

Some of them are sandy and others are pebbled, but they all have crystal water. The most organized Syros beaches are Galissas beach, Megas Gialos beach, Kini beach, and Poseidonia beach, some of them lined up with family hotels, seaside taverns and beach bars.

Syros beaches can be accessed by bus from Ermoupolis, the main town of the island.

Being situated in Syros’ most popular tourist resort, Galissas Beach is well organised and packed with amenities. But arguably what makes this beach so popular is its Blue Flag status, which means you can be assured of its sparkling clear waters and clean sand.  

The beach is also perfectly set up for families with small children; it’s scattered with trees for shade, the waters are shallow, there are sunbeds and umbrellas, and there are a number of cafes and other eateries nearby for when hunger strikes.  

About nine kilometres from Ermoupolis there’s Kini Beach . It’s easily reached by bus from the capital, and is perfect for those who enjoy late afternoons at the beach as there are a number of seafood restaurants and homely tavernas to spend time in. The bonus is that Kini Beach is also a beautiful sunset spot.  

Also easy to visit on a day trip by bus is Finikas Beach : the second-largest beach on Syros. You’ll find it on the southwest coast of the island, situated in a small, sheltered bay.

This means that the beach is protected from being buffeted by the northern summer winds. Around the area, there are hotel options and a wide array of seaside eateries to choose from.  

Azolimnos Beach is closer to the capital. It’s a quiet spot that’s a popular hangout where locals like to enjoy days off. There are also diving centres here for those who wish to explore further under the surface of the water. Also, there is the quiet Komito Beach .

This southwestern beach is small and secluded and makes for a nice alternative for those looking for a peaceful spot to relax. Then there’s the nudist-friendly Kokkina Beach . It’s secluded and small as well, ideal for those who don’t mind nudity and want to spend a chill time by the sea.  

One of our favourite beaches on Syros is Paralia Achladi (Pear) tucked away to the west of Paralia Varis ( also lovely) and home to the wonderful Achladi Taverna , who have some of the best sardines in Greece. Watch out for the the resident beach ducks sunbaking on your towels!

Prefer your beaches a bit more lively? Then try Megas Gialos Beach . Curving around a crescent-shaped bay, it’s the centrepiece of the popular resort of the same name. The beach has all the amenities and facilities you’ll need for a fun day out and makes for a good jumping-off point for exploring other beaches in the south of the island.  

One of the best beaches for families on Syros is Fetouri Beach . This beach is well organised, with all the amenities you’d expect, but best of all for those with children are the shallow waters that make it great for splashing around in the sun.

Last, but by no means least, is wonderful Palaria Asteria, right in Ermoupolis in the upmarket Vapporia area. This is a more ‘italian style’ beach with a large concrete platform and ladders that enable you to dive into the crystal clear bay, which has a healthy marine eco-system too, great for snorkelling! It is also home to Ciel beachbar & restaurant – one of the best of its kind in the country in our opinion and very sophisticated. This is where you really will wonder at times if you are in Greece or some other fabulous part of Europe!

Agathopes Beach

Azolimnos Beach

Varis Beach

Galissas Beach, Trojan Horse

Waves Beach, Ermoupoli

Achladi Beach and Taverna sardines

Monuments and museums of Syros  

Ermoupolis Town Hall dates back to 1898 and was built in the Neoclassical style.

There’s also an interesting mix of styles punctuating the architecture, with a strong Bavarian and Italian flair influence. This enormous building also makes heavy use of marble. Its cocktail of different architectural styles, and its elegant design, have led many to dub the building the most beautiful town hall in Greece.  

Syros Vaporia Quarter

You’ll find the Vaporia Quarter around the port area of Ermoupolis. The town was once an important hub for the area, and this particular district was the centre of the action. It’s an intriguing mix of charming Cycladic architecture and 19th-century styles.  

Here you’ll find paved pathways, arches, and beautiful mansions – many of which have been restored to their former glory – as you wander around the area. The mansions were once home to wealthy ship owners, pointing back to the heyday of this port town.  

Syros Apollo Theatre

Close to the Town Hall, in Miaouli Square, is Ermoupolis’ Apollo Theatre . Built in 1864 by Italian architect Pietro Sampo, it was constructed out of white marble and limestone, and its interior walls are adorned with numerous oil paintings. The theatre itself boasts elegantly carved wooden tiered seating. It’s an impressive place to visit.  

Syros Capuchin Monastery

Situated in Ano Syros, the medieval part of the island, this monastery dates back to 1653 and was founded by King Louis XIII of France. It’s dedicated to Saint John. The monastery has played an important role in the island’s religious landscape through the centuries, though today monks no longer reside at the monastery.  

Syros Archaeological site of Halandriani

This archaeological site was discovered in 1885. Dating back to the 3rd millennium BC, it is thought to be the first settlement on Syros Island. There are about 500 graves and numerous artifacts – from weapons to household goods – that were discovered here, telling the stories of the previous inhabitants of the island.

Museums of Syros

Syros Vamvakaris Museum

In the central part of the medieval old town of Ano Syros, the Vamvakaris Museum tells the life of the prestigious musician Makros Vamvakaris. Born in 1905 in Ano Syros, Vamvakaris was a leading proponent of rebetiko – a type of music that developed out of poor, urban areas across Greece. He is known not only in Greece but across the world.  

Syros Archaeological Museum

The Syros Archaeological Museum is located inside the impressive town hall at the centre of Ermoupolis (but it has its own entrance).

The museum actually dates back to 1834, making it one of the oldest in the country. It was established to display the array of archaeological objects that had been discovered not only on Syros but across the Cyclades.  

Syros Industrial Museum

Harking back to the industrial history of Syros, this museum is actually situated in one of the old factories of the island, close to the former dockyard. It was founded in 2000 and provides a history of the area’s 19th-century industrialization with exhibits on machinery and tools of the time.

Syros Hermopoulis Heritage

Whilst not strictly a museum Syros Hermopoulis Heritage is a labor of love carried out by its passionate owners and is now used as a function and event space and is a non-profit organization.

Once a thriving textile factory the space has been completely and lovingly restored with all equipment, artifacts, and even staff time cards and the manager’s desk is still completely in situ.

You get a deep sense of what working life was like when the factory suddenly closed in 1986 and incredible insight into the history of the factory and indeed the industry on the island in years gone by.   

Other buildings of interest in Syros

Being the capital of the Cyclades there are many more buildings of interest on Syros than on any other island in the group. As this has been the administrative centre for thousands of years it is no surprise that much of the data, record keeping and commerce for the area has been kept here and still is to this day.

It’s well worth a visit to The Historical Archive of the Cyclades , Ermoupolis Municipal Cultural Centre, the Municipal Library, and the Kyveli Institute .

Nature and outdoors

Horseriding.

One of the best ways to see Syros’ rich countryside is to head out on horseback. The Equestrian Club of the Cyclades is accredited by the Hellenic Greek Federation and is the place to go for all things equine.

At this official riding club, you’ll be able to take riding lessons and be taken out on a trail-riding adventure with experienced riders. So, even if you don’t know how to ride, you can learn here – after all, who can say they learned on Syros?

Syros is a surprising hot spot for divers, with a number of diving centres located across the island.

Because of the island’s rich maritime history, there are a great many shipwrecks to explore – each rich in undersea life. Not only that, but you can find reefs and caves here that are sure to impress even the most experienced divers.  

The Syros Dive Centre will look after all your scuba and dive needs.

Syros has some prime locations for hiking, particularly in the north, which is less populated and wilder in its landscapes.

Many of the hikes are well signposted and numbered, so it’s easy to find the route. The beautiful hike from Ermoupoli to Kastri, for example, provides dramatic scenery and an impressive array of nature.

St.Nicholas Church

Industrial Museum Electric Car

Events on Syros

Religious events.

Syros celebrates a number of religious events across the year.

While Holy Week (before Easter) is important, more lively is The Feast of Virgin Mary on August 15 with particularly vibrant celebrations with boats decorated with flowers bobbing in the bay and dancing till late.  

The day before, August 14, sees Kini celebrate Fotarides . Houses are decorated, bonfires are lit, and there’s a definite party atmosphere in the air.

Elsewhere, on June 14, there’s Kleidonas . This is marked by the burning of spring wreaths made at the start of May to celebrate the changing of the seasons. The feast is particularly notable in Chrousgsa.

Other Events

The Carnival of Syros is one of the biggest events on the island, and one of the most famous carnivals in the whole of the Cyclades. Taking place usually in February, the event sees parades, dancing and singing in the streets.  

In 2024 there are 19 Festivals that are scheduled to occur in the Spring through Autumn.

They include:

Syros Heritage Festival – May 24-26

Syrianopato Dance Festival – June 20-23 

Guitar Festival of Ermoupolis – July 2-6

11th International Dance and Performing Arts Festival – July 11-21

18th Aegean Festival – July 14-31

20th International Cyclades Classical Music Festival – August 19-24

8th Rebetiko Festival – August 28-31

Syros Jazz Festival – September 19-21

Animasyros (International Animation Festival) – September 23-29

Meet the Violin – November 19-24

At the end of summer, there’s also Ermoupoleia , which features a regatta, art exhibitions, and theatre productions.

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How to travel to Syria in 2024: Need to know

By Joan Torres 356 Comments Last updated on April 12, 2024

Wanna travel to Syria with Against the Compass?

Join a group of like-minded travelers in our next scheduled tour in Syria on:

M ay 29t h to June 5th , 2024

Syria had been in my plans for a very long time and, finally, they started to make it easier for travelers. Well, not that easy, but definitely easier.

Since 2018, I have visited Syria 6 times, visiting places like Damascus, Homs, Aleppo, Krak de Chevaliers, Hama, Busra, Palmyra and everything along the Syrian coast, including the island of Arwad.

Syria is pretty epic.

On the one hand, I got to visit ancient, marvelous sites that were a real blessing to my eyes.

And, on the other hand, it was a very enriching experience as well, since I met loads of Syrians who told me their side of the story, plus I was able to witness one of the worst humanitarian crises in the 21st century, visiting hair-raising places that require a lot of cold blood, if you don’t want to breakdown into tears, making you empathize with the many beautiful Syrians.

Long Live Syria.

This guide contains everything you need to know for traveling to Syria , including plenty of tips regarding visas, safety, transportation and much, much more!

Why visit Syria with Against the Compass?

Here are the reasons why we believe Syria is a mind-blowing country to travel to, as well as my honest reasons why you should join one of our Syria tours.

In this travel guide to Syria you will find:

Table of Contents

• Syria tours
• Why travel to Syria
• Recommended books
• How to get a visa
• Travel Insurance
• How to get in

Is Syria safe?

• How to move around
• Money in Syria

Responsible tourism and ethics

• Taking photos
• Don’t get off the beaten track
• Where to stay
• More information

🗺️ How to sign up for a tour in Syria

Unfortunately, independent travel in Syria is practically impossible nowadays, so the easiest – and only – way to travel to Syria is through a tour with a valid operator.

More on that in the visa section of this post.

Check this documentary on our Syria tours!

Upcoming group tours for Syria

Against the Compass has several scheduled group expeditions in 2024

• May 29th to Jun 5th, 2024 (8 days). APPLY NOW
• Aug 11th to 17th, 2024 (7 days, Marmarita Carnival). APPLY NOW
• Sep 15th to 27th, 2024 (13 days). APPLY NOW
• Oct 13th to 20th, 2024 (8 days). APPLY NOW
• Dec 23rd to 30th, 2024 (8 days). APPLY NOW

How to join an individual tour or a smaller group for Syria

Do you wish to join a small group, but you can’t travel on any of the above dates?

No problem, just shoot me an email ([email protected]) indicating:

• How many people you are
• How many days do you want to spend in Syria
• Which dates

And we will try to find other travel partners you may travel with. Otherwise, know that we can also organize private, tailored trips .

📰 Why should you visit Syria now?

This is a very good question, one I have been asked a lot recently.

The truth is that reasons vary.

First of all, in the last couple of years, I have been traveling all across the Middle East , so visiting Syria, one of the most fascinating countries in the region, had been on my travel plans for a very long time.

Another even more important reason is that Syria is a great country, home to one of the oldest civilizations ever, so visiting Syria from a tourism perspective is a must-do.

However, most people asking that question tend to refer more to the ethical aspect of traveling to Syria , as this is a war zone from where many people have been forced to escape in order to save their lives.

Well, I want you to know that I fully understand why someone would not want to visit a post-war zone because, truth be told, destroyed buildings and misery are not pleasant things to see.

Nevertheless, the first thing you need to know is that I travel to learn and become wiser and, yes, I am interested in visiting a post-war zone, because this is living history and I wanted to see it with my own eyes, and not through a biased newspaper.

I also think that traveling to Syria with the sole objective of empathizing with the locals is a good thing and, as long as you are absolutely respectful about the crisis, there is nothing wrong with it.

But in the end, we should ask Syrians what they think about it and I can assure you that, since Syria used to be a major touristic destination, today Syrians are very happy to see that tourists are coming back because this is a real sign of recovery.

For more information, read the Responsible Tourism section of this article.

Read about my experience in Aleppo

📚 Recommended books for traveling to Syria

Syria travel guide by bradt.

There are no updated guidebooks of Syria, but Bradt Guides has the only exclusive  travel guide to Syria , updated as of 2010.

Still, it is a good source and a nice introduction to the country

The Rise of the Islamic State by Patrick Cockburn

A must-read book. Written by one of the world’s top experts on the Middle Eastern conflict. In this book, Cockburn gives a very comprehensive explanation of the origin of DAESH, with many references to Syria.

A very useful book to understand the complexity and origin of the conflict.

🪪 How to get a tourist visa for Syria

BREAKING NEWS Americans can now travel to Syria Since March 2023, Americans are finally allowed to apply for a tourist visa

Last updated information 2024

Getting a Syrian visa nowadays is pretty straightforward but that’s something you can’t do alone because the Ministry of Tourism dictates that all travelers who want to get a Syrian tourist visa must book a tour with an operator .

For that, Against the Compass is a licensed and valid tour operator that can help you obtain a visa for Syria.

Join one of our groups, and you will automatically get your visa for traveling to Syria.

We have several scheduled group expeditions over the following months:

How to get a Syrian visa directly from a tour operator

The first thing you must know is that travel agencies will not issue a tourist visa for Syria but a security clearance (a background check), which you need to show at customs.

Consider it as a Letter of Invitation.

This is what the security clearance looks like. Usually, it includes several random people:

With your security clearance in hand, you will be able to purchase a Syrian tourist visa at the border.

The problem, however, is that nowadays, travel agencies are not allowed to issue a security clearance unless you book a tour with them.

How much does the security clearance cost

It’s always included in the total tour package, so it really depends on what tour you book.

How long does it take to get the security clearance?

2 weeks as an average, but you may get the approval in just 2 days.

How long is it valid for?

The security clearance has a 90-day validity, starting from the day you receive it.

How much does the tourist visa for Syria cost?

These are the latest visa fees updated in 2024 .

Note that prices tend to fluctuate based on the exchange rate but, as an average:

• European passport holders: 75 USD
• Canadian passports: 100 USD
• British, Australian, and Argentinian passports: 150 USD
• US passport holders: 200 USD

Try to bring the exact amount for the visa. Otherwise, they will give you your change in Syrian Pounds, using the official bank rate.

You will also have to pay an exit fee of 2,000SYP.

Can Americans get a visa for Syria?

Yes, since March 2023, American passport holders may travel to Syria.

Their visa application takes 4 weeks.

Which Tour Operator do I recommend for traveling to Syria?

I recommend Against the Compass, which only works with the best and most knowledgeable local guides.

As mentioned, we have several group trips a year and by the way, we also organize private tailored trips (from 2-day trips to Damascus to multi-day trips across Syria).

Learn more about Syria expeditions in this video:

🚑 Travel Insurance for Syria

Like in Iran, because of all the sanctions, most travel insurance companies don’t cover for travel in Syria.

The one which does, however, is IATI Insurance .

• They have loads of different plans for all types of travelers: from families to backpackers
• Covers senior citizens too
• Readers of this blog can get an exclusive 5% discount .

🛫 How to get to Syria

How to travel to syria by land, 1 – how to travel from beirut (lebanon) to damascus.

Traveling to Damascus from Beirut is the easiest way to travel to Syria.

Beirut is only 115km from Damascus and the journey takes 2 to 4 hours, including the customs process.

If you book a Syria tour with Against the Compass, we will take care of your transfer from and to Beirut, no problem.

In the unlikely case you were traveling to Syria independently, know that there is no bus service but locals travel in shared taxis.

They leave from Charles Hélou bus station, which is in a very central location, in Gemmazyeh.

Shared taxis from Beirut to Damascus run all day long and I went there at 3pm and waited for no more than 15 or 20 minutes.

The cost per person is around 20USD.

If you go by yourself, you will pay 100USD.

Beirut to Damascus border crossing : Very straightforward.

On the Lebanese side, they barely check your passport and, on the Syrian side, they take around 20 minutes, as long as there are no people, of course.

First, they check your security clearance, then you purchase your visa at the bank counter and give your receipt to the immigration officer.

You only get a stamp, not a visa sticker.

After getting your Syrian visa and resuming your journey, you will go through several checkpoints, but you shouldn’t experience any problem.

Read: A travel guide to Beirut

2 – How to travel from Tripoli to Tartus

You can also travel to Syria from the border north of Tripoli.

Shared taxis to Tartus cost around 12 USD and they leave until 8pm from this statio .

It is only a 65km journey, so it should be fairly quick.

3 – How to travel from Amman (Jordan) to Syria

The border is finally open but the journey from Amman is longer (200km) and the border crossing takes more time.

If you want to enter Syria from Amman, pick-up may also be arranged.

4 – How to travel from Turkey to Syria

Today, that border is not possible to cross legally.

How to travel to Syria by air

Damascus has an international airport but there are a few things that you may wanna take into consideration before booking your flight.

• The airport doesn’t have many connections, only with a few Middle Eastern cities such as Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, or Baghdad.
• The only airlines operating in Syria are Cham Wings , Syrian Air , and Iraqi Airways , airlines the tickets of which can’t be purchased online, but you must book them at the respective office in cash.
• Due to the situation in Syria, the airport in Damascus shuts down pretty often, so the chances of your flight being canceled are relatively high.

This is why I strongly recommend flying to Beirut instead.

Read: Lebanon – A 2-week itinerary

⚠️ Is it safe to travel to Syria?

Along with the visa, safety is the other big question mark for anyone traveling to Syria.

Look, the war is practically over in West Syria (the city of Idlib is the last actual war zone) and cities like Aleppo and Damascus are perfectly safe.

You see children roaming around and everything seems just fine now.

Moreover, the Old City of Damascus is full of military checkpoints where they check your bag and look at anyone who seems suspicious, so there is a high level of security and nothing has happened for a long time now.

Actually, I was in Damascus for Christmas and, for the first time since the beginning of the war, the streets of the Old City of Damascus (and Aleppo as well) were filled with Christmas lights and celebration.

The atmosphere was full of joy, happiness and both Muslims and Christians were celebrating such an event with very big enthusiasm (there is a huge Christian community in Damascus).

This can only mean that even the Syrians themselves believe the city is safe.

Long story short: I personally think that Syria is safe to visit but it will depend on where you go.

For a better understanding, read my analysis: Is Syria safe to visit?

Read: Is it safe to travel to Iraq

Which parts of  Syria are safe to travel?

Read my 100% safe travel itinerary for Syria .

Damascus, Homs, Aleppo , Latakia, Tartus, Krak De Chevaliers, and also Palmyra.

Still, keep in mind that this is a post-war zone, which means that it is highly unstable and things could change overnight.

The people – The Syrians

Language spoken in syria.

Levantine Arabic is the official language.

You should know that many English-speaking people left the country but you will always find someone who does. In any case, try to learn some Arabic before traveling to Syria.

Religion in Syria

Around 65% of the population are Sunni Muslims but, like in Lebanon , in Syria, there are many different religions, including a large Christian population. Bashar Al-Assad is Alawite, a Shia branch.

How do Syrians feel about tourism?

According to the UN, around 500,000 Syrians have been killed, nearly 5,000,000 escaped from the country and several more million who are still in the country need humanitarian assistance.

We are talking here about one of the worst humanitarian crises in the 21st century .

Like I said at the beginning, many people are skeptical about traveling to Syria, claiming or thinking that it may be disrespectful to all the people that have been affected somehow.

Well, what I think is that, before making any judgment, we should ask the actual Syrians living in Syria what do they think about it.

When visiting Syria, I have never talked to a single Syrian who was not happy at seeing a foreign tourist.

The ones who spoke English approached me, asking a lot of questions and showing their gratitude for visiting their country.

They don’t hesitate to talk to you about the crisis, the problems that it has caused, etc.

Hello, how are you?

Well, alive, thank God! – A random Syrian told me

However, I thought that wandering around Damascus as a tourist would be like being a celebrity. I mean, people were extremely nice and kind but it was not like when you travel in Pakistan , for example, where everybody stops you in the street to talk to you.

The main reason was that most people thought I was a journalist and the second was that Syrians have always had great international exposure, so seeing foreigners is something they are actually used to, with the only difference they haven’t seen many since 2010.

Long story short: Syrians are happy to see tourists.

🛺 Transportation: how to travel around Syria

Note: This info refers to 2018 when traveling in Syria independently was allowed.

You can travel around Syria by local buses and shared taxis.

I took the bus from Damascus to Aleppo , which takes more than 7 hours.

The reason is that the section of the road from Homs to Aleppo is not totally Government-controlled, so after Homs, they turn right and make a huge detour to get to Aleppo.

Update 2022: Today, the direct road from Damascus to Aleppo that goes through Idlib is finally under the control of the Government.

There is not much to say here, other than the roads of Syria are full of military checkpoints, which is what you may expect.

Your driver will keep your passport and he will handle everything for you, so don’t worry about that.

I also took the bus from Homs to Damascus and it was a very similar story.

From Aleppo to Homs I took a local shared taxi.

Seriously, buses run normally, smoothly and without any problem

In Damascus, this is the main bus station to go to Homs and Aleppo.

The station at Aleppo is quite far from the city center but you will see plenty of taxis just outside.

As per safety , the truth is that many people were being overprotective with me, always taking care that I was feeling safe and comfortable, so you should not worry about that. Most people taking the bus to Aleppo are from the army by the way.

💻 Internet and connectivity in Syria

Wi-Fi – Internet works relatively well across the country. The hotels I stayed at had a good connection and you can also connect in most relatively good cafés and restaurants.

Mobile – I bought Syriatel and, for 7,000SYP, they gave me 2GB and some calls but, of course, prices may change. They only asked for my passport. I recommend you go to the official store. There is one next to Merjeh Square, right here: 33.513185, 36.29777 .

Get a VPN for traveling in Syria

You should always use a VPN when you travel, especially when you connect to public Wi-Fi networks.

Your connection will be much safer. 

Moreover, you will be able to access content which is typically censored in Syria. 

I recommend ExpressVPN – Extremely easy to use, fast and cheap. 

If you want to learn more about VPN, check: Why you need a VPN for traveling .

💰 What you need to know about money before traveling to Syria

Remember to get travel insurance for Syria IATI Insurance is one of the very few that covers travel in Syria + COVID-19 5% discount if purchasing via this link

In Syria, they use the Syrian Pound (SYP) , a currency that has been fluctuating like crazy for the past 10 years.

Before the crisis, $1 equaled 50SYP.

In 2018, during my first visit, $1 equaled 490SYP.

Today, you can exchange $1 in the black market for up to 13,950SYP .

As a consequence, Syria is suffering from massive inflation and the problem is that most salaries haven’t increased accordingly.

Exchanging money in Syria

You can exchange both Euros (€) and USD ($) but USD can be exchanged at a better rate.

If you bring 100 USD notes, keep in mind that they only accept the new ones with the blue line.

If you have Syrian Pounds left when you leave, you can exchange them for Lebanese Pounds or USD in most exchange offices in Beirut, at the official bank rate, which means that it won’t be so good.

Where can you exchange Syrian Pounds?

The best is to exchange at the exchange offices you find before reaching the border. With our groups, we always exchange in a Lebanese town named Chtoura .

ATMs and credit cards in Syria

Because of the foreign sanctions, in Syria, you can neither pay by credit card nor using ATMs. You must bring all your money in cash.

Update 2024: Due to the current financial crisis, the same rule applies to Lebanon. If you are traveling to Syria from Lebanon, you must bring enough cash for visiting both countries.

How much does it cost to travel to Syria?

These are the prices of the most typical things:

• Lunch in a local restaurant: 50,000 to 80,000SYP
• Food in a nice restaurant with wine: 150,000 to 250,000SYP
• Breakfast (like hummus or ful): 35,000SYP
• National Museum: 25,000SYP
• Aleppo Citadel: 2,5000SYP
• Bus from Damascus to Aleppo: 50,000 to 70,000SYP
• Budget Hotel in Damascus: $35 to $45 for a private room
• Mid-range hotel in Damascus: $60 to $90 for a private room
• Taxis within cities: 40,000 to 60,000SYP
• Local shared taxi Aleppo to Homs: 100,000 to 150,000SYP

Syria is a post-war zone, where millions of people have lost their houses and relatives, much like Haiti , so please, be a sensitive tourist.

Don’t say war but crisis or situation instead

You will see that many Syrians themselves don’t really use the word war but they prefer to say other less harsh words.

Don’t take selfies with damaged buildings

Seriously, this is one of the most disrespectful things you could ever do and you would actually be an asshole if you did it.

Empathize with the locals

When you are in an area full of destroyed buildings be polite to the people, say hello , shake hands and just be nice with them.

Collaborate with the local economy

In Homs and Aleppo , you are likely to see small businesses open among all the ruins. Do buy things from them.

In Homs, I saw one small bakery shop in the practically destroyed souk; I couldn’t resist buying one kilo of sweets there, which I gave to a young boy that was looking for something among the trash.

Read: A travel guide to Iraqi Kurdistan

Are the Syrian cities really destroyed?

This seems to bring a lot of confusion, so let me explain it to you:

Only the outskirts of Damascus are destroyed, as there was a bloody battle there. That area is off-limits to tourists.

The Old City and the new part of town remain intact.

A percentage of the Old City is destroyed, as well as some areas from outside the city.

Most of Aleppo isn’t damaged but some very important sites from the Old City, like the Great Mosque, are gone.

Nowadays, however, the city is being rebuilt and people are slowly coming back.

One of the most affected cities by the war.

Approximately 40% of the city is destroyed and that includes its bazaar, one of the liveliest and most important souqs in all the Middle East .

The Temple of Bell was destroyed by ISIS but Palmyra is a massive archaeological site and many of its wonders can still be seen.

📸 Taking photos when you travel in Syria

You can take photos of everything except for one thing: military stuff.

Yes, it is very obvious but the problem is that there is military stuff everywhere, especially in Damascus.

In Damascus, it happened a few times that I took a picture of some cool building or whatever, from relatively far away, and didn’t realize there was a checkpoint right next to it.

Of course, the soldiers approached me but, after quickly checking my passport and my camera, very kindly, let me continue.

In Damascus Old City, there are checkpoints everywhere, so pay attention before taking any photos.

🧭 Don’t get off the beaten track in Syria, not yet

As of 2024, this section still is highly relevant.

Seriously, don’t.

Don’t do it because you are going to ruin it for everybody.

Syria just started opening to tourism, so stick to the main touristic areas.

I am telling you this because there was a German guy who went to the outskirts of Damascus to take photos of some destroyed buildings and he was put in jail for a week.

That was back in 2018, when independent travel in Syria was allowed.

Since then, booking a tour is required in order to get a visa for Syria so, even if you wanted to get off the beaten track, you would not be able to.

🏨 Accommodation: where to stay in Syria

Since the crisis, the Government of Syria has introduced a dual pricing policy in all hotels, in which foreigners pay more than the locals.

This has increased the rates substantially but you can still find many affordable options.

Where to stay in Damascus

Budget – Green Hotel – Single rooms cost 15USD and double 30USD. It was very clean, there was a heater, good Wi-Fi and the guy from the reception spoke English. It was here, just outside of the Old City: 33.510168. 36.298925 .

Boutique Hotel –  Beit al Mamlouka – A small hotel at the heart of the old city.

Top option –   Beit al Wali – One of the best hotels in the city.

Luxury – Four Seasons – Crazy expensive, but the best hotel in Syria. Note that it’s not managed by Four Seasons anymore, even though they kept their name.

Where to stay in Aleppo

Mid-range – Aleppo Palace – Good, affordable option in Aleppo, with great views of the new part of town. It’s located right next to the I Love Aleppo sign.

In Aleppo, you can also find a Sheraton.

Where to stay in Homs

New Basman Hotel – One of the few options in Homs is this hotel that offers basic but comfortable rooms.

Where to stay in Al Mishtaya

Al Mishtaya is a Christian village near Krak de Chevaliers and the place where we stay when I bring groups into Syria.

They have a pretty good brand-new hotel named Vila Rosa Hotel .

Where to stay in Palmyra and Busra

Today, you can’t stay in any of them because there are no hotels.

🍲 The food and alcohol in Syria

In the last few years, I haven’t traveled to many countries that are famous for their food, but Syria definitely is.

Being an olive-oil-rich Mediterranean country, the ingredients used in their cuisine are fresh and similar to the ones we used in Spain, Italy, France, and Greece.

The food is actually pretty much the same as in Lebanon, with their own regional variations, of course.

From the classic hummus to kibbeh (local steak tartar), different sorts of grilled meat or a typical dish of Aleppo consisting of meatballs in cherry sauce, the food in Syria is so varied. 

For me, however, breakfast is the best part, as they always serve different variations of hummus and ful deep in super tasty olive oil and vegetables.

As per alcohol, you should know that Syria has a large Christian population, so alcohol is easily available, especially in the Christian district of the Old City of Damascus, where there is a street filled with bars and many liquor shops.

You can actually buy a $1 beer and drink it in the street!

❗ More information for traveling in Syria

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

All guides and articles for traveling in Syria destination

• Travel Guide to Aleppo
• Syria Itinerary
• Is Syria Safe?

Travel guides to other countries in the Middle East

• Iran Travel Guide
• Palestine Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Oman
• Travel Guide to Lebanon
• Iraq Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Saudi Arabia
• Yemen Travel Guide

You will also like our Libya travel guide and Haiti travel guide .

You will also be interested in: Where in the Middle East is safe? and The most beautiful places in the Middle East .

I hope this Syria travel blog will help you to plan your trip. I will try to keep it updated but, if you have more updates, please let us know in the comments section. Thanks 🙂

356 comments

Hi, before the war Syria was known as not being particularly female travelers friendly, do you think that has changed? Would you recommend going there as a solo female traveler? Thanks love your blog!

Hello Iris. When it comes to the local culture and openmindedness, I tried to compare it with other Middle Eastern countries and, to be very honest, I didn’t see much difference versus Palestine and Jordan, 2 countries where females can now travel easily.

In Damascus, you see loads of women without hijab and there is actually a large Christian population and, in their district, you find very openminded people, like in any European capital.

But in any case, I would like to get in touch with a girl who has been there recently, to see what kind of advice she could give and what she thinks about it 🙂

Thank you for your quick reply! 🙂 We are trying to see if we can go in a few weeks, but we might not get the visa in time… Although I might come back, because your article made me put Damascus high on my bucketlist! 🙂

i will go in june as a solo female, i will let you know 😉

So how did your solo trip go?

Hi. I`m curios as well, did any of you ladies manage to travel there and have any insight in how it is to go as a woman?

Hey, I’m Jude I’m 22 and I live now in Syria, for sure solo female travelers are welcome here as well . The people here are very open minded and friendly, specially if you are a foreign tourist because we love to have tourists here again. We have a mix of different religions and cultures here in Syria, so everybody takes care of your space and freedom . if you have any question email me, I’d love to help anyone to visit Syria.

Hello, I am working in Saudi Arabia and I am planning to visit Syria (Damascus) by road in November, 2019. Please guide me is it possible to travel by car to Syria. and safe for tourism. How much money is required for 2 days stay. My final destination will be Palestine. Looking for your reply. regards, Zahid ur Rehman

Could you send me your email id

Hey Jude, Do you know any budget and confortable hotel with private room near the old market or the big mosque, I think it’s safiest to stay inside the old city of Damascus

I want to visit damishq syria. Is it safe for visit?

Can you share your email so I can ask you more specific questions about travelling to Syria as a tourist? 🙂 – Austin and Abigail

Hi! In January I have a plan to travel from Beirut to Damascus – would be great to have a contact with you;) Greetings Dawid

Hello Jude, I am hoping to Travel to Syria in the next few months. I have a lot of questions and would love the opinion of a local, as it is quite difficult to get accurate information about the country! If you are not comfortable putting your email address up, please email me. My email address is [email protected]

I would love to hear from you!

Hi Jude, I am planning to go to Damascus as well. How is the trip from Beirut to Damascus? And how about prices, hotels and food? Thank you! Patricia

I need some more info on traveling to Syria. Would also like to include them in my “postcards from the world” to encourage people to visit. Regards, karen

Hey guys, I’m sorry that I couldn’t reply to all your comments in recent months due to the recent pandemic, hope you’re all fine. Please if you have any question or you want to talk about Syria and/or want a guide or a tour contact my email. [email protected]

Hello Jude, probably I will work in Damascus pretty soon so how are things there for the living on these days?, thank you

Hi Jude thank you for being so welcoming. I am not sure if people can visit Syria without a formal tour group. Please can you tell me if we can visit without a tour group? Thank you. Carmel

Hi! My boyfriend is from Syria (we live in Austria). I would really love to visit his home. Do you thibk. I can travel alone from Amman to Damascus? How’s it going to be thete for me? Thanks for your answer! Cheers, Michaela

Hi Jude, are you living in Syria? My husband and I are in Turkey and trying to apply for a visa to travel in March/April but we need a reference, contact details of someone in Syria to put on our form. Are you able to help?

Hello Jude I’m Cecilia from Philippines I am planning to visit Syria can you help me ? Actually I have to meet my bf in Aleppo it is a little complicated his situation hoping for your response in my gmail address Thanks ( below my name and my gmail

Hi Jude, I’m planning a trip around the beginning of April and would love to have a chat with you :). How can I reach you?

Email? Please?

Hello my name Is Luisa and I am in Syria now. Everything went well. My travel guide Is Sawsan Joumaa and She Is very helpful and good. She only brings me in safe places and She Is Always with me. I am really very happy.

any contact to this travel guide, i will need one..

Hi Luisa, I write to you because probably I will work as humanitarian in Damascus very soon and I need to know all about how is living in Damascus in November 2020.

Ciao. Io mi trovo in Siria e vi posso assicurare che ci sono più donne in vesti succinte qui che sul lungomare di Bari.

Ciao Luisa per caso ti trovi ancora in Syria? Vorrei potere avere qualche consigli su una possibilità di viaggio in Syria a settembre 2021.

Actually I find Syria far more liberal than Jordan. I mean, don’t even compare. Just as an example, while women in Jordan have to follow a complicated sitting protocol in public transportation, in Syria it’s just like in any western country. Syrian women dress in whatever way they wish, in ways which wouldn’t be acceptable in Jordan. These are just two examples.

I stopped reading when I saw — “No. Unfortunately, US passport holders cannot get a visa for Syria.”

Fck that. It’s 2022. They need to grow up…

The day the US Government lifts sanctions against Syria, Americans will be allowed to travel to Syria

Yes i am syrian i live in syria we are not like other middle eastren countries so for sure you can come and you are always welcome

hey syrian guy, can u help me out? i need to talk to you just about the country and i want syrian friend and i am from saudi arabia.

I am educationist from India and heritage management expert.I wish to visit Syria with my son next month for 5 days.Can anyone guide me.Thanks in advance.

Im looking forward to travel to Syria average soon

Hello Iris My name is Nour, i am a Syrian citizen, regarding your question: Syria has been a secular country for more than 50 years, any female (a foreigner or Arab) is welcomed to Syria, make sure you and any other tourist will be totally safe during your stay in Syria. Regards from Damascus

Syria was especially safe for women, I traveled all over the place alone. I was in my mid 50s but many much younger women remarked how safe Syria felt for them. There is a lot of mythology and down right lies spread about all aspects of life in Syria before the war. Arab men do not have sex before marriage as a rule, so they will show an interest but no more so than European men, just be cautious like anywhere else, you might travel. If you are that worried maybe you shouldn’t visit there, Syria had next to no visitors prior to the war regardless of what people might tell you. This was because it was one of Britain’s prohibited countries. Britain resented the fact that Syria invaded Lebanon and that it chose not to cooperate with the capitalist system, being socialist. There was a bright side to this for people who did visit though, and that was the price was the price for everyone, unlike in many of the surrounding countries, particularly Egypt.

Help me please !!!!! I am from syria and I need help to get out of my country……but it is so hard…..please …..is there anyone who can help me ??!

عم تشحد سفرة؟؟

Are you okay?

I traveled to Syria 2008, I was so beautiful and want to revisit hopefully in Spring. I am trying to decide from Lebanon or Jordan since I have family in both place. I want to travel to Axcelê, Syria near Jandaris I have a lot good friends there and I would be staying with them and hopefully when the situation gets better I would like to have a house there. I just love it there and my heart is there.

Hy..my name is ali i am from syria.. Yes actually it changed a lot after social media nd tiktok nd all…u can move freely in some state like (tartous-latakia-damascus) But in other u states u should wear hijab(hair cover) nd not wearing shorts.. U can also roam without hijab but its better to wear cuz ppl will stare at u nd all…

Yes are they fighting in Homs I have a friend there who is a doctor and he’s wanting me to help him leave Syria and come back home to United States but his agent is wanting $1250 fee to start his documents to get him home. I don’t have that kind of money and he can’t get his Money from the states until he gets home and this agent won’t help him And I can’t is there any other way he can get home. He said he’s afraid for his life and it scares me. If you could help me I really would appreciate your help. Thank you Sherry

Yes my name is Sherry could you Joan answer my question above in my email I wrote on October 29, 2020. I don’t know what to do cause I don’t have the money to pay the agent and too I don’t know if it’s a scam or he’s telling me the truth please could you help me. Thank you Sherry

hi Sherry, this article/blog refers to traveling to Syria for touristic purposes. For political or your kind of issues, I think you should contact your embassy.

This is a tourism related article but I’m sure it’s a scam. Did you know this person in real life before he “needed” the money. Is he a friend from the US? If not, I guarantee it’s a scam. If you want to help Syrians, then go to your local Middle Eastern shop and buy Abou Rashed baklavas Chami soap, both of which are made in Syria and provide employment to Syrian people. Don’t send this fake doctor $1250.

Quite the contrary, Syria was known as being really women friendly at least until the mid 2000s but the war began at the end of 2006, I remember the pro-Israeli protests by the Kurds in Qamishli, so the later years might have been more difficult. I found Syria much friendlier than Jordan but for women much the same. In 2006 I noticed lots of the students at Irbid university, Jordan, near Syria were wearing black veils; though they weren’t in the town itself.

I was in Syria 22 years ago with a friend as two female traveller’s in their 30s. Not once did I feel in danger, quite the contrary. We felt perfectly safe and welcome. Syrian people have got to be some of the most hospitable on earth. (She and I felt the same way in Turkey: perfectly safe with the exception that in Turkey, everyone tries to see you rugs!)

I was in Syria the years 2009 – 2010 – 2011. I visited Damascus, Tartus, Palmyra. Syrian people are kind, giving, helpful. A wonderful experience. Not much restrictions as people believes, a peaceful country even though in 2011 the conflict really started. Travelling from Syria to Lebanon or Lebanon/Syria, the best option always have been in taxi. My recommendation for the ladies, to dress without showing too much skin😊 to avoid attention. I love Syria! I love Beirut too! ❤ Will Be back one day soon😊

Very nice travel guide. GOOD JOB !!!

Having been to Syria twice before the war I fully support your reasons for going. It’s people definitely deserve the income that tourism can offer. I know you caution about the security situation but I think it’s especially important to do so about Aleppo. Areas held by extremists border on the city and there have been mortar attacks and some kind of chemical weapon attack on the outskirts. The situation in Idlib will almost certainly only be solved militarily though I guess in this case the govt will keep tourists well away. I agree with you about the rest of the country but it’s important to appreciate the situation around Aleppo. Thanks again for another great article. Unfortunately I won’t have a chance to go back there until next year but will definitely go.

Fantastic information, muchas gracias Joan! I visited Syria with a group from Ireland last June 2018, I fell in love with the country, it’s people and culture. I hope to return in May this year, thank you again for this updated information.

Oh, that’s great! Which places in Syria did you visit? And are you planning to go to different places in May?

Hola again Joan! We spent 3 days in Damascus, visited the Old City, Ummayyad Mosque, the Souk etc, the Palestinian camp, which was pretty much destroyed, then onto Ma’aloula and up to Aleppo. Hoping to visit Tartous/Latakia and Palmyra on the upcoming trip. Thanks again for your excellent report!

Hi Caroline,

Would you mind if I asked what tour you used? Looks like you had a great time. Thank you 🙂

Hi Meg, our group went with Mithra Travel both visits, our guide, Lamis was/is exceptional. I would definitely use them again, highly recommended. Caroline

Hi Joan, I’d like to ask you, how about the relations between Syria and Israel? You write about crossing the borders between Lebanon and Syria, and Jordan and Syria. But how about Israel and Syria? I guess that the border between Israel and Syria is also closed, but anyway, do you know more about it? And how the Syrians think about Israel and the Jews? I know that Israel makes some air raids against the Iranian bases there (at least it is what the news say). Does it have an effect to the opinion of the local Syrians about Israel?

Hi Krasen! The border between Israel and Syria is definitely closed and it will be for a long time. I don’t know if it used to be open during the pre-war but I seriously doubt it. I didn’t talk to any Syrian (in Syria) about Israel but I did talk to Syrians living in other parts of the world and their opinion towards Israel / Jews is the same as Lebanese, Jordanians and, basically, any other Arab.

Hey we hate isreal and isrealies and we love jews and any israrli stamp on your passport will perminatly ban you from syria (thats the law) From syria

Hi! We will travel to Syria in this summer. In the visa application form we need a reference and we have to show our invitation letter. How does it work actually? Is it just formality? Maybe, can you help us?

An LOI can only be issued by a valid tour operator and it is a big responsibility. Then, a friend could also invite you but it is a long process that requires great paperwork, and shouldn’t be asked to random Syrian people on the internet.

Hi Joan. Loved your post. I have soon-to-be relatives in Syria. Would writing a LOI for me put them under any kind of scrutiny or hardship? I want to travel there this winter, and I will be visiting them, so I don’t want or need a tour. But I don’t want to cause any problems for anyone either. Thanks!

Hi Cynthia, I am not sure if an LOI written by them would be valid. You should ask the embassy but for people from Syrian origin and relatives, getting the visa should be easier.

Hi Kristof,

My name is Lotte Beckers, I’m a journalist for the Belgian newspaper De Morgen. I’m working on an article on traveling to Syria (I also spoke to Joan on the phone this weekend). Could we maybe get in touch? Feel free to mail me at [email protected] Thanks

HI Joan , If I get a tourist visit it’s only thru tour guide correct after a tour I want to go and see close friends in Axcelê,Syria that is final destination then like I said buy an apartment in Jandaris where my friends and I would live and hopefully work maybe open something or purchase with them. Which is the easiest way to get there. Please help name’s of company or Taxi service in Aleppo that could drive me the rest of the way.

Hating Israel and Israelis (including Arab Muslim Israelis??)… – Joan Torres, do you allow this kind of hateful comment in this thread? Where’s the outrage? – Syrianguy, get an education, man. After a number of lost wars again Israel, perhaps you could start thinking about the effects of your hateful attitude and realize that it leads to a dead end (literally), i.e. the destruction of your own country — and I feel sorry for the peace-loving Syrians. Hating others will eventually backfire. Horray to all the loving Syrians, down with hateful people — and with governments that make it a policy to hate other nations.

Francis, don’t be a moron. Hate is a right to anyone, it’s a state of mind, better, a state of emotion. There is no bigger fascist than the one who thinks he has the right of ban emotions. Not only this but also the Syrian person obviously is not obviously fluent in English, so better focus in the general idea that there are problems regarding Israel and that an Israeli stamp in the passport will block any request of visiting visa to Syria. Geeeeez!

Ricardo, try not to be the moron yourself. Hate is a right to everyone? Wow man, I have never come across such a weak attempt to justify hate. Hate is not a feeling, nor is it an emotion, it is basically a choice based on biased beliefs which entails emotions like anger and which brings about real actions like trying to murder someone. You are watering down the hate thing into a vague emotional state that cancels the responsibility of the hater. And Syrianguy not being fluent in English still makes him fluent enough to clearly vent his hate. You are trying to excuse his hate with a poor command of English. Pathetic. Denouncing hate is to be a fascist now? Geeez. Remember to take your meds, Ricardo.

I don’t want to get involved in your discussion but to be very honest, the comment you are referring to about ”hating Israel” is debatable.

First of all, he is a 14-year old person who has written many comments besides this one, plus it’s true that he doesn’t speak English very well.

Moreover, it could be that he is referring to the fact that Syria, as a country, hates Israelis, politically, hence they put a travel ban to anyone with an Israeli stamp. He also says he loves Jews, so his problem is about Israel as a country. I would delete any racist, offensive comment but in this case, it isn’t very clear, so there’s no need to make such a big deal out of it,

Did I say Moron? Sorry, my mistake. You are a total idiot with no clue on how humans and the world works, a child, in age and/or mentality, who sees a black and white world and is full of certainty about everything and still, knows shit about hate and emotions. End of conversation, ignoring trolls mode.

Sorry for this parenteses Joan. Over and out.

i am syrian…we respect jews riligion..but we hate israel cuz they steal our arabian land..so if any jews came to syria he is welcomed…but israel ppl they will not be safe in syria…if u have israel stamp ur syrian visa will get rejected directly.

israel does not do stamps on passports anymore, nowadays they give you an entry and exit ticket, instead of making a stamp on the passport. and that’s because of the very specific reason you mention, that other countries wont see that people have visited israel

the northen area of israel, golan hights and down to tiberias lake, all that area belonged to syria and it was occupied by israel in 1967, how do you think syrians feel about syria ? and the border between both countries was never open ..

Hey Joan, you have put a great guide to Syria, thanks man! It is so insightful and useful

I visited Damascus many years ago, around 2005, and I absolutely loved it and now that the country is finally starting to bring back tourism again, I can’t wait to go.

The visa process seems the only barrier though, as I contacted the embassy in my home country and they said that I need an LOI, which means that I will have to get in touch with an agency, which I don’t really want to because I want to travel there on my own.

And by the way, thanks for double-confirming all the information regarding Basel Travel King.

I know 2 people who traveled with him in November and December and both them agreed that he is a scam. He also charged them 100USD a day for a guide who didn’t know absolutely anything about history, which means that you pay all this money for only having a guardian which you don’t really need to. One of them went to Aleppo and instead of staying in a hotel, he stayed at a Basel’s friend but he charged him the price of an expensive hotel.

Anyways, I will try to see if is there anyone who can get me the LOI without booking an expensive tour and I will let you know

Yes, the visa thing is a pain in the ass and it seems that you can’t get it without paying a lot of money first, which sucks a lot… Hopefully, things will soon get easier PS: Thanks for sharing additional information about Basel. He sucks, really. 😀

Great article! I am going in October but I am booking with a local travel agent so I can move fast (I hate buses) and see Palmyra. Maybe even continue to Jordan to see more of Crusader’s castles and Petra. Not sure why are you so surprised by the support to Al Assad. I mean the guy saved them from islamists and religious state. In any case, hope the peace is upon all of Syria soon!

Yes, that is what some of them said, that they defeated the Islamists but Al Assad was not only fighting Islamists but many other groups and those rebels had hundreds of thousands of supporters. However, I believe that most of those supporters are either dead, left the country or they just will never talk about it I also do wish the peace comes soon.

Thank you for this blog, but just a quick comment on this one – even if they do disagree with Assad, the secret police is swarming around the cities so they would never say it (there’s a joke that every third person is mukhabarat in Syria). Don’t assume that they support him just because they say they do!

Well don’t assume they don’t either, I know the Brotherhood was plotting in the mosques in 2005 and coming to England for monetary support from the government here. And that a previously held Guantanamo Bay prisoner was travelling around Britain with Amnesty International advocating the bringing down of the Syrian Government and possibly brought a lot of money from the British govt to the Brothers, at least our govt didn’t deny it. That is my personal. Also I know another family of detainees came to impose the caliphate and two were killed and the other one is in Syria still, maybe in the camp on the east side. The travesty didn’t happen on its own mate. Don’t stir up shit storms with your comments please. Lastly why do you want to visit Syria then? you make me suspicious.

Hi Joan! Syria is a place I want to visit before it becomes too popular. My question is, you entered though Lebanon, but where did you exit? I would fly to Beruit and spend a few days there before crossing the border. They say a Lebanon visa is free on arrival but that is only 1 entry. Did you pay for a multi entry visa and re-enter Lebanon or depart Syria though a different country? It sounds like its best to contact that lady and just do a 1 day tour to get your security clearance. What exactly is that anyway? Just to make sure you are not wanted by interpol!! or is it just a routine procedure? Thanks for any help. Tony.

Hi Tony, I entered and exited through Lebanon. Visa in available on arrival, so when you re-enter, you just get a new visa. The security clearance is just a background check and a requirement to obtain your Syrian visa.

Hi, how you got your copy of the security clearance ? Agency send it to you via post, or you got e-version?

you get an e-version

Thanks Joan. I will look into this trip either before June or after September. Too hot in between! Tony

Hello, I visited Syria in December as an independent traveller and I used a tour company to secure the visa but they didn’t require me to take a tour. I visited Damascus, Hama, Homs and Aleppo with no issues – I tried to visit Palmyra but apparently the security clearance that you may apply for in Damascus takes 5 days to clear and must take a tour as there’s still an active minefield. So unfortunately it may be hard to visit Palmyra for a while. Josh

Thank you Josh. I didn’t know that Hama was possible to visit. Was the ferry wheel still standing? By the way, which company did you book the tour from?

Hello, The water wheels are still standing and are lovely! I took my bus to Aleppo from Hama. Was a strange experience because in Hama because I hitchhiked from Krak des Chavalier to Hama at night and was then invited out to dinner almost as soon as I arrived with the Syrian tourist minister and some of his friends, I assume the hotel manager informed the minister I was staying town. I used some local tour company called Damascus Tours.

that sounds like a great adventure, thank you for sharing- Do you have perhaps the contact of this tour company? I tried to look for it on Google but I don’t see any company with a website named Damascus tours… I would really like to contact them and see if it could be a good alternative, so readers can know. thank you!

Hi Joshua, could you share contacts of Damascus Torus company?

Josh I want to visit Syria I have family there. I have American passport and was thinking about flying to Kuwait for a few days then to Damascus airport. Do you know if I can get a visa at the airport?

Hi Joan, I too tried to look for this travel company but couldn’t find it. Even if its possible to get the security clearance without a tour, it will still cost $325, yes? And the actual visa at the border. I saw the man you stayed with in Aleppo on couch surfing. Did he show you around the city, is the fighting completely finished there? I only ask you because on a Syrian government it mentioned military action in the Aleppo district. That may cover a large area though.

Yes, the security clearance costs 325USD and the Syrian visa at the border around 70USD, for European passports at least, except for British, who pay more. If you only pay for these 2 things, consider yourself lucky.

Yes, my CS host showed me around and as far as I know, the fighting in Aleppo is over.

Although fighting in the city itself has ended, there are jihadi forces relatively nearby. Fighting in the region could occur at any time and the city could get targeted. Anyone visiting should keep up to date constantly on the situation

Great article … I am Syrian … i read your article out of curiosity to see how is the general impression about my city …. you did great especially about the prices ….. Thanks for that

which city?

Damascus…

Joan, your article is wonderful!

Please, do share more of the things you discussed with locals during your stay. It is so hard to find any current info without a political bias. And I would really like to hear more Syrian people’s voices.

You mention they have a good WiFi connectivity in Damascus. Do you think they have any independent blogers that might be of interest?

Thank you again!

Hey! What do you mean by ”independent bloggers that might be of interest?”

You mean if there is any Syrian travel blogger who would be great to follow?

It is doubtful you will make it out alive…Bashar Assad is a murdering, lying psychopath

It’s extremely complicated in Syria. Despite the situation. in Syria, numerous minority groups are still protected by the central government controlled by Bashar Assad.

Speak of an Arabic government that allows such religious freedom.

Syria is all you can speak of. Thank you to the Syrian Republic.

Please talk to the people in idlib..they will tell you the truth..Assad is a psychopath..

I’d love to see your westerner/christian ass trying to walk 5 blocks in Idlibstan without lossing your head. Maybe Hillary can airdrop you there to fight against the christian saviour Bashar.

Bashar w bass.

Hello, My name Is Luisa and I would like to visit Syria in December. If you want we can talk each other my email [email protected] Whatsapp 0039 3204551648

And the Kurds are Pro-Israeli not to mention mainly Turkish. Wht try and take over Idlib at all? Qamishli wa a nice place but some groups want everything for themselves.

Hi Joan, Thanks for the very precise description and advices. I am planning to go there in May, however, I am wondering if they put a stamp on your passport because I have another flight to the US shortly after. Thanks

Hello, yes, they do stamp your passport

Hola Juan me ha encantado tu post muy bien detallado y la verdd dan muchas ganas de viajar. Tbn soy espanol residente del Paris. La cosa es que la semana que viene viajo a Turquia y de paso me encantaria pasar por Siria. Efectivamente las fronteras estan cerradas a turistas por lo que la sola alternativa es ir a Libano. Hoy estuve en la embajada Siria en Paris pero hacer el visado toma alrededor de un mes por lo que ya es practicamente imposible obtenerla aqui. Me parece que el tema de agencias es my caro, asi que me gustaria saber cual es para ti la forma mas barata y rapida de obtener el visado a para poder entrar a Siria ya que mi tiempo es bastante limitado y esperar mas de 3 dias para un visado seguramente anularia una posible visita siria.

Muchas gracias por tu post!!!

Hola Sebastián,la mejor manera será contactar con una agencia, con Sawswan por ejemplo, y reservar un tour de 1 día

Osea q tienes q pagar como minimo el security clearance de 325 USD + 100 USD del tour de un dia? Joder si es asi creo q optare para hacer siria en otro viaje haciendome el visado en la embajada donde me cuesta solo 25 eur…

si de verdad consigues un visado para Siria por sólo 25€, me lo cuentas para que lo pueda escribir todo aquí

http://www.ambassadesyrie.fr/services_consulaire3.php

Aqui tienes los precios. Pero bueno solo por confirmar a mi mensaje anterior, el minimo entonces para entrar desde Libano son 425USD??

En mi más humilde experiencia, jamás me fiaría de una página de información burocrática procedente de un país de Oriente Medio. Es más, estoy segurísimo de que estos precios son falsos y de todas formas, aquí también tendrías que añadirle el coste del security clearance, a parte de la carta de invitación que lo más probable es que te vayan a pedir

Bonjour Je peux vous aider si vous voulez Merci

il faut se contacter

I can say that you have the courage to visit Syria while it is not safe as it used to be many years ago. It is a very good article filled with important inforamtion.

Hi Joan, I sent a whatapp message to the lady you talked about who could maybe help with getting the secuity clearance-Sawswan. I asked her if if she could help with getting the clearance if I booked a tour with her around Damascus and maybe Palmeyria. I mentioned that I had got her number from you and that you had travelled to Damascus in few months ago. It looks like she got my message but no reply. Is there any other way to contact her , has she got a travel company or tour guide company? If I draw a blank with her is there another reputable guide or company I could try?

Thank you very much for the beautiful blog. As a Syrian who hasn’t been back in Syria in two years (living in Lebanon) this fills me with a sense of nostalgia. Thank you for visiting Syria and I hope you had fun!

We Syrians have always been happy to find tourists visiting our humble country, and I myself have always dreamed about helping tourists discover Syria (given the fact that I am one of the rare Syrians who actually speak English properly), but alas the war took away the tourists from me and I had to leave Syria to study abroad in them American University of Beirut.

A couple of my European friends here in Lebanon tried visiting Syria over the last couple of months and couldn’t enter; they went to the embassy and were told that they didn’t need a visa and should go to the border directly, only for the border to tell them to head back to the embassy and get a visa. I am happy that things are becoming more organized now as evidenced by the fact that you could enter the country without any complications. I hope you didn’t get ripped off though! We’ve always had a thing for ripping off foreigners back in the day, but perhaps now that tourists are so few and we’re so glad to have them back our great merchants aren’t too keen on ripping them off.

I do hope to one day return to Syria and meet the nice folk like yourself who have come to visit our country from overseas. Thank you again for writing this blog. I will forward it to all of my foreign friends here in Lebanon who have expressed their desire to visit Syria. I probably won’t be able to go with them (since I would need to get permission from the army to be able to leave the country again and it’s a hassle) but I am sure that the information you provided would very much help them get the visa and find local accommodations .

Thank you, Joan, and thank you to everyone who is standing by Syria and the Syrian people through these troubled times.

Hey there, thank you so much for your kind-hearted words, really.

I loved Syria and trust me when I say that nobody tried to ever rip me off. Everybody was always so kind and trying to be overprotective with me, and I am sure that anyone should have a very similar experience.

Hope you can travel to your beautiful country and the situation will normalize even more in the upcoming months and years.

Kind Regards

Hi Joan, Saludos de Portugal! Thanks for sharing your experience. I will be in Lebanon during May (9 to 17), and really wanted to take this opportunity to visit Damascus. I contacted this travel agent you mentioned, and she asks me for 500$ for a day trip, which is simply insane. I really wanted to do it independently, and, of course, much cheaply. I’ve contacted the Syrian embassy in Paris, but they’re not very responsive. Any recommendations?

Thank you for your time and good travelsl Rodrigo

Hi Rodrigo, It is quite a standard price. I didn’t go on a tour and only the security clearance cost me $325, (and other agencies charge more), so, unfortunately, there is not much you can do, because now there is no way to get a visa without booking first a tour.

Hello Rodrego My friend take those words as a standard whenever you want to visit Syria, the longer period you stay there the cheaper offers you get, for example ( 1 day trip is 500$, then every extra day will cost you 200$ including the hotel+the tourguide)

It is a reasonable price especially since it includes a visa to transfer to and from Beirut and a guide to the Damascus tour

Hi nice blog i live in syria and i am syrian i am 14 years old i read the article to see what people think of us with the lies shown in the media so thanks for the great article i hope when you visit us again you would go to my dad’s restaurant it is called kaza miza and it was awarded the best restaurant in syria by the syrian tourisim minestry in 2016 Again thanks for the article

Thank you! And I would have loved to taste your dad’s restaurants, really. A pity I didn’t know about it before 🙂

Hi Joan, First of all, great article, thanx a lot! I have been trying to go to Syria for a while, and I am thinking about going this coming Oct/Nov. 2019. I am also an independent traveler and hardly any time I take a tour, so far only have taken two; Tibet and DPRK. I want to visit on my own. Heard rumors about a German fella that got in trouble and now the government has implemented a “tour only” for all travelers into Syria, but I believe it is more like a rumor created by the tour agencies and operators. In any case, I hold a U.S. passport and one from the Republic of Georgia, unfortunately neither place has a diplomatic office from Syria. Saw your post about a week ago and wrote to the Embassy of Syria in Madrid, but have not yet received a response. If you don’t mind me asking, when you applied for your visa you had to go in person to the embassy in Madrid and then they sent your passport plus the visa by mail, correct? How long was the process? Also, I see your comments and you talk about a “clearance letter” worth about US $450.00 plus a fee of US $70.00 when you enter Syria, at the border? My plans are using my Georgian passport, obvious reason, and try and go get the visa either in Madrid or Brussels. I don’t count with a lot of time. Do you mind explaining a bit the process? Thank you very much! George G.

Hi George, things have changed a bit recently and you won’t be able to get a visa without booking a tour. Even most embassies will require you to get an LOI from a valid tour operator, which you will only get if you book a tour. This is kind of contradictory because then you can move around Syria independently.

Hi again, Joan, So, basically I can book a tour for let’s say, a day, then I can move independently? That sounds feasible. I know you went in independent, but does anybody here knows of a reliable and easy local tour operator then? Thank you Joan and all participants! George

I tried with the Syrian embassy in Brussels as its the nearest one to me. I emailed them but they never even replied. I think the tour agents are the only way. Just choose carefully!

Very interesting post, thanks for the info! I’m an independent journalist and visited Afghanistan a few months back which was impressive, and now Syria has become a big wish to visit! Those visa regulations suck though… Hopefully come across some local reliable tour operator somewhere. Given your contacts, do you perhaps know if there are different regulations for journalists, holding international press card?

Great site by the way, all the destinations of my interest, will be following!!

Hi Thijs, I don’t really know about journalism visas but Syria has been receiving loads of journalists for the past 8 or 9 years, so as long as you are not from the USA or the UK, I assume it should be feasible? But I don’t know about the process. I think you should contact the embassy!

Hi Thijs, just in case you ever revisit this Blog and your post: I‘m an independent filmmaker from Switzerland and visited Syria in January 2018. Iobtained a journalist visa through the consulate in Geneva. A few days ago I tried to Rentner the Country again, this time as a Tourist – and promptly was denied entry on the grounds of – well – being seen as a journalist. So, I‘d say it‘s risky to apply for a tourisr visa if you have a journalist visa from another country in your passport.

And yes, you should definitely contact your embassy. Btw, as a official journalist you‘ll have to accredit yourself at the ministry of information in Damascus after 24 hrs. and they will assign a governement employee to accompagny you throughout your travelsein Syria. Understandable after all the lies that have Bern Publisher about this Great country over the last decade by Western media . You‘ll have to pay for food and lodging of said employee. Best, Jan

Sorry for the tipos, am writing from 30 degrees Beirout… ;

Hi Joan, First of all, thank you for the great guide. I was so excited after reading your text, but then I looked at some comments and got pretty confused. So, to be clear: you have to get security clearance and visa to cross the border. You can ask for visa in local embassy, is that right? And after incident with German tourist, visas are now available only if you have booked tour? And tour operator is responsible for visa and security clearance, you don’t need to go to embassy? And there is currently no way for getting the clearance and visa without having to book the trip with travel agency? Once again, thank you for this brilliant site!

Hi Monika, yes, I know that this is confusing because everybody is getting different information/interpretation plus rules change every day. I wrote this post 2 months ago and the visa part already seems sort of outdated. Tomorrow will update it.

However, you got it 100% right. In summary, you can’t get a visa without booking a tour and, if you contact directly the agency, you don’t need to go to the embassy but I think that going through the embassy is cheaper (but slower) because you don’t have to pay the 300-400USD for the security clearance.

On the other hand, some rumors say that a few embassies like the one in Beirut and don’t know which Consulate/Embassy in Brazil don’t require the LOI but again, these are just rumors.

Joan, thank you for quick reply. I contacted Syrian embassy in Poland and they informed me that currently tourist visas are not issued at all. They told me to contact them again in two months. Wish me luck for the next time =)

Yeah, each embassy is a complete different world 🙁

Cześć Monika. I jak się Twoja historia skończyła? Jestem ciekaw bo również chciałbym pojechać na parę dni do Syrii. To Joan: Great article. I strongly appreciate that three are such people in Europe who can go to Syria, enjoy it and respect its law and fantastic people regardless of western media and western politicians WHO are responsible for syrian crisis. Greetings!

Hello everybody. I have just updated the visa section of the article. To be honest, the situation hasn’t changed much, meaning that getting the Syrian visa is still a pain, but based on new experiences from some travelers, I have re-written it and the process seems less confusing now. Please, remember that travel reports are more than welcome 🙂

Hi Joan There are a number of signs that a campaign against the rebels in Idlib is starting, which could explain the clamping down on visas and having to go on a tour. The govt isn’t going to want to have tourists going anywhere near fighting or undercover journalists using tourist visas. If so , Aleppo will be much more risky and there would be the risk of suicide bombings or attacks elsewhere. Personally I’d advise people to hold off on booking tours until the picture is clearer – when major fighting starts, which is only a question of when, not if, tours might just get cancelled anyway.

Amazing Article! I want to visit Damascus, Homs, Hama, and Aleppo from Jordan do any of you guys now any buses that go from amman to damascus? If so plz let me know 🙂 also I want to apply for a Syrian visa so do you guys know any cheap government secure agencies that issue them? Once again thank you!

Hi Mahdi, there are a few agencies listed on the article

Hi there is a company called jett which has buses from amman to damascus and if you are jordinian i dont think you need a visa

Thanks for the advice but I checked the Jett website but it seems that there is no bus that goes from Amman to Damascus if you do find it send me a screenshot somehow 🙂

Syria is not safe and will not be safe until the murdering psychopath Bashar Assad is gone.

Lori I wasn’t asking for your opinion on Assad so plz stop btw the only way Syria will be stable is if Assad is in power and everyone knows that, btw going on topic if there aren’t any buses how or where would you find taxis in Amman going to Damascus

Lori I wasn’t asking for your opinion on Assad so plz stop btw the only way Syria will be stable is if Assad is in power and everyone knows that, btw going on topic if there aren’t any buses how or where would you find taxis in Amman going to Damascus and is it possible just to rent a car by yourself and travel throughout Syria?

Hello I am making wild plans to travel from Amman to Kurdistan to enter Turkey from Syria, Aim is to cycle home from Jordan back to Europe. I know there were many conflicts there between the Kurds and IS, but i want to hear if anyone knows anything about this region/ traveling all trough Syria nowadays.

Someone can link me to someone or something?

All I can tell you is that you can’t travel around most Syria and the border with Turkey is closed. It is not the right time to cross Syria on a bicycle

Hello and thanks for the very informative article. Did you have or foresee any difficulties visiting other countries now that you have a Syrian stamp on your passport? Israel is now definitively a No-Go but I was wondering if other countries like the US might be difficult to visit afterwards. Thanks a lot! Hey

Hi Nicola, my Algerian visa was rejected. They didn’t tell me the reasons but I suspect it was due to the Syrian visa. Otherwise, it didn’t make sense

Nicola, That’s not true! If you have a passport with a Syrian (iranian, etc) stamp you can still visit visit Israel. As for the USA, you’ll need a visa (even if you needed before) if you visited the country after 2011. Bf th war I travelled Syria-Jordan-Israel, without any problem.

Joan, como estás? I´m a brazilian national applying for a tourism visa for Syria. As I don’t know anyone from Syria, I’ll have to inform in the application form that my contacts in the country are the hotel managers where I’ll be staying at. I liked your suggestion about the Green hotel. Do they have a website? Would you still recommmend Mohammed so that I can get in touch about a reservation? Or any other hotels I can call or write them? Thank you!

Hi Guilherme, yes, try to contact Mohammed, he is working there still. You can make reservations in other hotels and contact them, but I don’t know anyone personally

Hi there Joan,

this is an update about my sucessful trip to Syria in August, 2019, that might be useful for other travelers. I required a visa at the Syrian embassy in Sao Paulo, by filling an one-page form. It took less than a month and around USD 15 to get my 15-day visa. I booked a 5-night tour with The Golden Target tour company – recommended by Eva, von @evazubeck. It was simply amazing. My itinerary was: Damascus – Palmyra – Homs – Hamra – Aleppo – Crac des Chevaliers – Maaloula/Saydnaya. I had a driver and an outstanding guide (Tayseer) with me, full time. The driver pick me up at my hostel in Beirut and drove me straight to Damascus. Border crossing was wasy and everyone was very friendly. I paid around USD 1600, all included. Hotel rooms were amazing, including my 2-night stay at a five-star ottoman-damacean mansion in old the town in Damascus (Beit Mamelouk Hotel).

We normally started our day at 8:00 AM and finished at 10:00 PM. We saw a lot, no hurry. Every 10/20 km there was a military check point. The agency provided all permits and it was very easy to get through. Everywhere was safe. My guide and some cops/military would always give me some advices on my personal safety when walking around.

Although it sounds a fancy trip for backpackers like me, it was worth it and I had a fantastic genuine experience. I met hundreds of locals in the streets, cafes, road sides etc. It was beautiful. I have been to almost 70 countries, but Syria , blew me away.

Thanks for you post. I highly recommend everyone to go to Syria.

Guilherme, 31, Brazil

hi thank you for everyone, am from dubai want to travel damascus, and, aleppo for business purpose, is it safe to travel this city, can you advice any precautions. thank you

Hi Joan! Thank you so much for writing this article. I would love to travel to Damascus; I contacted Mr. Ayoub like you suggested. Is there any way you could give him a heads up so he knows to look out for my message?

Hi Irene, I think it is better if you wait for him to reply. He will-

Also, another question–will it be hard getting into Israel if I have a Syrian stamp on my passport?

Thanks again! Irene

Read this: https://againstthecompass.com/en/avoid-israeli-passport-stamp/

Hi. I travelled to Syria many times before the war – as a lone woman. And I never had any problems. To the contrary I was treated like a princess, with a huge amount of respect. If you dress conswrvatively and respect the culture, I don’t see why the wonderful Syrian sense of hospitality would have changed.

Im looking foward to go to syria for the first time How do i need to dress to go there??

Hi i am syrian it doesnt matter how you dress we are very open here but dont wear very short or exposing cloths

Hi joan i am a mexican citizen who looks to travel to syria in the future, what are the thing i need to do before i travel there to syria???

Hi Angel, you just need to do what says in the visa section of this post

Its a relief to know that and for me its amazing the idea to travel there, i really pray for the conflict to end and peace shall return to all syria

i am from Saudi arabia and i want to spend my vacation in syria ASAP, can anyone help me out? i have been reading so many articles and it seems so hard, can i travel by plane or by crossing border i have no idea, its so confusing! do i just have to make a tourist visa and a ticket and then i can fly from jeddah,riyadh(saudi arabia) to amman,or damascus (i dont know where the airport is). is that it? please let me know!

Hey, I’m Syrian and I’ve read your article and I really want to thank you about everything you said. We work too hard to show the world what the poor media don’t show, We have terrific nature, awesome historical places from too many cultures, delicious traditional food, and the most welcoming and heartwarming people you will ever met. When you add unbelievable views, delicious food and talented people you meet around here that what makes Syria just amazing. I’d love to help anyone wants to visit Syria with what I’m capable of and let you know about the best places to stay and visit. feel free to Email me: [email protected]

Hi Joan, thanks for putting all this super helpful information together. Do you happen to have any information about the border crossing procedure between Kurdistan Iraq + Rojava / Northern Syria in Semalka? I heard that the KRG sometimes issues permits to foreigners but I don’t know under which circumstances. Best regards from Germany, Karoline.

Hi Karoline, I don’t have any information, but the only issue here is that I have my doubts that you would be able to go to Damascus, as you would have to go through definitely NO-GO zones for tourists. Assuming they give you that permit, you’d be just able to visit Kurdistan, but even then, Syrian Kurdistan is not as autonomous as Iraqi Kurdistan, or at least the Syrian Government doesn’t recognize them as such, so I am not sure if you would also find there pro Al-Assad checkpoints. I would definitely do more research about it if I was you.

Please make a detailed Lebanon and Syria border crossing guide! And explain how you get the visa at the border! Keep the amazing work up!

It’s already explained in this article – There’s not much more to say about it

Hi Joan, I want to ask that I am a Pakistani and currently living in Germany doing my Masters here.In October,I am going to Sharjah UAE for the Internship for three months.During that time,I want to visit Syria to visit Damascus and Aleppo.Do you think that I will get the visa in that short time period of three months. Regards, Ahsan

hello, the visa process takes 1 week. contact Mr Ayoub and he will give more details about it

Hi Joan, I just got back from a few days in Damascus. It was awesome from transport from Beirut to visa clearances to everything. Through your blog I found out how this was all possible so thank you..

thank you for your feedback 🙂

Hi Kelly… your name was in our clearance 🙂 so… may i ask you how was your trip? Did you see many non arab tourists there? Is the city ok to be visited? Thank you sooooo much!

can I ask if you visited with the tour or independent?

thanks Paul

My husband and I booked a 3 day Damascus tour for the next montb and I can confirm they are super professional. Clearance has just arrived and all was pretty smooth. Details will follow… stay tuned

Great, thanks! 🙂 Let us know it goes!

Hi Marzia, Looking forward to connecting with you as am I yet to book my tour but will definitely do it since I’d love to visit Syria during my stay in Lebanon (I am going in October). Could we connect via email for instance to share experiences?

Sure, with pleasure. Mail me to [email protected]

Thanks, Marzia, just sent you a message!

amazing work.have you something to follows on Facebook ,i want to show all my friends AND to all the stupid people out there who still believe the shit in the news.

Thank you but please, keep the insults out of this page 🙂

Great info, thank you. I only carry a US passport, but have family in Lebanon, not far from Anjar. In the past, I’ve been able to just show up at the border, and been given a visa for 17.00 USD (from what I recall). I’m going with a friend, who has a US passport, at the end of November and was interested in knowing if this would be possible or not without having anything. We’re just wanting to visit Damascus, than head to Amman. I also have family in Sweida (Druze). It’s not a huge issue, as we can fly to Amman from Beirut, but would love to go back to Damascus for a few days. Many years ago, I took a train from Damascus to Amman, which was amazing. If a 350.00usd security clearance is the only option, I’m probable will not be able to afford that. Thanks again.

Hi there, the situation is getting more and more complicated for American citizens. I suggest you contact the person mentioned in this article to assist you with it.

If you would like to stay only in Damascous for 1 day, be really carefull with transportation connections, as a 5/6 hour delay while taxing the beirut – Damascus road is a huge possibility and you can easely miss a plane 😉 my suggestion is not to have a too tight schedule 🙂 good luck

I sent Mr. Ayoub an email using the address provided here, and it worked, he responded, but his company will not do tours for US citizens, as it’s to difficult to obtain (his words, not mine)

Yes he told me the same for US Citizens. Can anyone give advice on perhaps any other options to crossing the border from Lebanon into Syria as a US passport holder only? Or entering from another direction or country perhaps? I would like to visit in October and it’s very important to me that I visit.

I have just returned from a trip to Syria, it has been an unforgettable experience, very enriching. Without a doubt, the best and most interesting of all my trips until now. Many thanks to Joan and his website: Excellent prices, very good guides, everything very serious, efficient and well organized. Ayoub and his colleagues are great professionals and very kind, always ready to help the traveler. I chose the 5-day tour, which includes Damascus, Crac des Chevaliers, Aleppo, Hama, Maalula and Seidnaya.

The price of the tour (in my case around 900 €) includes visa clearance, transport between Beirut and Damascus (round trip), hotels in Syria (with breakfast), car journeys from one city to another (with driver), and entrances to places of interest (museums, castles, etc). As Joan points out in his post, this is the most effective, quickest, easiest and cheapest way to visit Syria and make the most of your stay in this wonderful country. Of course, it is cheaper to take care of everything yourself, applying for a visa at the nearest Syrian embassy; but being granted a visa can take several months. Therefore, hiring the services of a tourist agency is the best option (at least for the moment).

Luckily, the war is almost over: The cities are crowded with people at all times. Shops, restaurants, souks and markets vibrate with life and activity (both in Damascus and Aleppo). It cannot be denied, however, that the cruel war has left its mark: Of the cities I saw, especially in Homs (we drove there from Damascus to Aleppo and vice versa) and in Aleppo (where the old town near the citadel has been practically destroyed by bombs and missiles). But the Syrians are rebuilding their country. I saw many volunteers working on the removal of rubble. Many refugees have returned to the country, which is excellent news. On the roads there are many military checkpoints, but they are fast and fluid; soldiers don’t stop cars for long (at least this was in our case). They just control passports, checking that everything is OK, and that there are no “stowaways” (or weapons) hidden in the trunk. The terrorists (whom the media insist on euphemistically calling “rebels”) are entrenched in Idlib and its surroundings, but the rest of the country (under the control of the Syrian army) is extremely safe (probably safer than certain neighborhoods in some big European and American cities…). With the exception (apart from Idlib) of some areas in the north, of the border with Turkey, where there are sporadically collusions between Kurdish armed groups, illegal incursions from Turkey and Islamist gangs.

Many people believe that Syria is living a civil war, when the Syrians I had the opportunity to meet confirmed to me that many of the so-called “rebels” are not even Syrians, but foreign jihadists from all over the world (including non-Arab countries such as Afghanistan and Pakistan, as well as from Caucasian regions such as Chechnya). It is very similar to the situation in Yugoslavia in the 1990s (history repeats itself).

In Damascus I walked through much of the city (especially the old town around Bab Touma, with its narrow alleys), visited the impressive Umayyad mosque, the Azzem palace (now a museum of Ottoman occupation), the national museum (with archeological pieces of great antiquity and value, some of them from Palmira), the craftsmen’s market, or the Via Recta (straight street), where St. Ananias converted St. Paul. The Crac des Chevaliers is a huge fortress on a hill close to Homs, where the Crusaders where (among others). In Aleppo, the archaeological museum is still being restored, but I visited the citadel (built by Saladin), from which there are spectacular views of the entire city. Hama is famous for its norias (waterwheels), which supply water to the region. Maalula is a beautiful mountainous village not far from Damascus, where most of the inhabitants are Christians and still speak Aramaic. Seydnaya is very close to Maalula, also in a mountainous area, and there are very old monasteries and churches, from the time of the first Christians. During my trip I also saw other tourists (from Spain, Italy, Australia, New Zealand, Germany…). They were still relatively few, but it is already something very positive and hopeful to see that, even if it is “with eyedrops” tourists start to come again (which is very good for the economy of the country, thus favoring its reconstruction).

In Syria people are very nice and open, very kind and hospitable. The Syrians are happy to see tourists again. When they found out that I was a foreign visitor, they greeted me with a big “you are welcome!” Many speak some English, but it’s not like in Lebanon, where almost everyone speaks English and/or French. So it is useful to learn a few words of Arabic, the most basic will do. So the Syrians will be even happier, seeing the visitor’s interest in their culture and language.

So, shukran ktir (thank you very much) to Joan and to this page. And tahya Suria! (Long live Syria).

Thanks you so much for taking your time in writing this awesome review and glad you had an awesome time!

I am hoping to go on a tour in Syria. I was just wondered if you could allay any safety concerns – was there anything concerning at all you experienced during your trip ? I am a female UK citizen and I would be travelling with one other female. Thank you so much for any insights. From your comment and those of others it appears that it should all be safe but I just wanted to ask to confirm.

Hello Jen, everything was perfectly safe 🙂 Best regards, Felix

Hi Joan. Thank you for such a fantastic article .. it’s full of great info. I’m just wondering .. how long do you recommend staying in Damascus for? I’d really appreciate your insight on this. Thanks so much, Mel

two full days at the very least!

Thanks so much.

Hi Joan, I’m a journalist looking into writing a feature about people going on holiday in Syria and I wonder if I could ask you a few questions? It’s obviously an unusual travel destination and one which many people might associate with war and violence because of it’s recent history. But there’s plenty of tripadvisor reviews from people who have visited in recent years, so I’m trying to speak to some people who have been to ask their perspective. Please reply if you would be interested to talk. Many thanks! Tom

Thanks, I just replied to your email.

Hi everyone, Thank you very much Joan for this amazing information! I want to visit a Syrian friend, but I do not want to ask her to provide a LOI, to avoid that her details are put under audit or anything. This rules out the embassy route and I will try to get the security clearance + visa through the tourism agency you recommend. My question is: can I have any problem if I buy the minimum tour (one day I guess) and then I spend 5 or 6 days in Syria with my friend? or do I need to be accompanied all the time? I could even pay for 1 day tour and not use it at all (or use it only to go from Beirut to Aleppo). Thank you! 🙂

Hi Alberto, this is a concern Ayoub should answer but in any case, I think it is a bit unlikely, basically because the agency you go with is fully responsible for you, so I doubt they will let you roam around freely because if anything happened to you, they would be fucked as well

Hello, My friends and I may be visiting the Middle East next year and want to visit Damascus. We are very respectful of culture and the crisis but I’m concerned about perception. I have 3 questions. How are American Tourists treated? My second question is how are black people treated in Syria (Damascus specifically)? I’m traveling with a friend from Nigeria as well. Any special advice for entry for Nigerian passport holder?

Hi Karmin, I don’t really know what is their perception and attitude towards people from certain nationalities like yours but just to let you know that as of today, they aren’t issuing visas to Americans anymore, but you should contact Mr. Ayoub to ask about the current situation, as well as what are the requirements for Nigerians.

Just saw a girl on YouTube make a visit into Syria from Lebanon and I must admit it has given me itchy feet to visit Syria. You and your blog also. Maybe at the start of next year, need to earn and save some money. Hopefully no issues travelling on British passport.

Read all the comments and no mention of Canadian passport… how is it treated? Same as Australia and New Zealand is my thinking, but if someone could clarify? 🙂

I was quite impressed by the volume of information shared on this website. Thank you! I am of Syrian decent. My father was part of the first born generation in America. HIs parents were born in Homs and remained there until they came through Ellis Island in 1910. The name in Syria was Elian but was changed by Ellis Island officer to “Ellien.” My father passed away in 2017 at t he age of 90 and his dream of going back to the land of his family was never realized. Now my generation is all who is left in the family and I would love to make the journey. I have to admit that I’ve been hesitant to make such a journey given the political unrest but it would be life long dream for me and for my entire family. I may be traveling alone-not sure I feel comfortable bringing my adult children with me. I worry about many things-carrying cash but not feeling comfortable with using credit cards even if they could be used, remaining in contact with family at home while traveling, having no knowledge of the language, risks related whatever political unrest may exist at the time of travel. If I do make a trip to Syria, it’s not going to happen this year for sure. Thank you in advance for any comments about my post.

Thanks for sharing your story. BTW, people with Syrian ancestry/background can get a visa much more easily.

Hi Joan, What do you think if i book a day tour with proper travel agent,then can i walk/travel independently for rest trip around 4-5 day? 5 day trip 1000 USD quite expensive for me. Thanks

Hi Joe, The travel agency won’t allow you as you will fully be their responsibility. In any case, I have been told that for the last couple of weeks, they are getting more and more strict with foreigners that walk around without a guide or a local person, even in the old city of Damascus

What do you exactly mean by getting more strict? Plus, you did go on a solo trip, nothing bad happened. Why not just pay for the clearance and go your own way…

Hola Joan, Soy Alicia, periodista. Estoy escribiendo un reportaje sobre el turismo en Siria y me gustaría hablar contigo. Si tienes un momento este miércoles o jueves te lo agradezco. Un saludo,

Hey, I’m travelling to Syria next month and I found all the info you gave very interesting. Are you sure “IATI seguros” cover syria though? This is what I found in their contract “The cover provided under the Policy excludes those countries that, during the Insured’s trip or stay abroad, are in a state of war, siege, insurrection or armed conflict of any kind, even when this has not been officially declared, and those that are specified in the invoice or in the Particular Conditions.” It would be great if you could somehow verify this info and edit the blog, cause lots of people could be dangerously misled!

Hi Maria, thanks for raising this topic. A few points to clarify: – First of all, IATI won’t cover you in case, let’s say, you are hit by a bomb or any terrorist attack. For this, you should hire a travel insurance specialized in war zones. I used to recommend First Allied that they are no longer providing coverage for people who travel for tourism purposes, only business – Second of all, if you have a car accident, break your leg, lose your luggage, etc, and the reason is a non-related to war event, they will cover you – However, what they mean with the statement you attached is that if you are in an actual war zone, the medical assistance is very limited, so they won’t be able to help you – This means that their coverage is restricted to specific regions. As of today, the only place which is in actual war is Idlib. If you go there and something happens to you, they won’t be able to help you, so your policy will remain invalid. However, Damascus is today a safe place, so you will be fully covered. Hope this clarifies.

I’m about to leave tomorrow for Beirut and onwards to Damascus. Alone. I just read the update that lone tourists get into trouble even in Damascus. What exactly does that report or source said? I’m expecting my clearance any minute now from a friend’s friend in Damascus but this got me worried.

George, is there any way I could contact you? I am planning to go alone too. And would really like to ask about your experience and clarify some stuff. My e-mail address is [email protected]

If you don’t want to put your contact here, please just drop me an e-mail, so I could write further questions to you. Thank you so much!

Wondering how it works as well tbh. I think as a white person you just need to be with Syrian all the time (when I was there we were accompanied all the time and taken care of) – otherwise military might look strangely on you

I just came back from a trip to Damascus with mr. Ayoub from Marotta (if you are reading that, once again, lots of love from Poland!) and everything was in completely perfect order, from start to the sad ending of leaving the beautiful city. I definitely had the most memorable experience of my life and I encourage everyone to go and see it for yourself – it would definitely change your perspective in a positive way.

Thank you Ayoub for organizing everything for me. Hope to see you very soon!

thanks fore your positive vibes, really appreciate it 🙂

thank you so much Wiktor! much love from Syria . all the best

Thank you buddy <3 Hope to be back very soon, sending all the vibes and love back to you!

It is really nice to see the excitement to visit Syria. As a Syrian coming from Damascus and living now in Germany, it makes me really happy to see people trying to reach my beloved country, even though it is still a post war zone, but yet full of history and stories to tell ( Damascus is the oldest still inhabited capital in the world). I have read this article very carefully and found most of it very accurate and would really like to thank Joan for the effort to make it easier for other to experience Syria, the cradle of civilizations. As a Syrian, visiting Syria regularly, I would like to add a couple of things since my last visit in July: 1- Most of the check points in Damascus are now gone, since the entire south region of Syria is secure and the borders with Jordan is open again. 2- Flying to Beirut then to Damascus on road is the easiest/cheapest option, but again it depends on where you come from, so the are flights to Damascus airport from Riad, Dubai, Sharjah, Doha, Kuwait, Baghdad, Tehran and maybe Tunisia ( Syrian airline, Cham wings). 3- As for lone female travelers, i can see no reason to be hesitated or afraid, since Syrian community is really open minded and tourist-friendly. Plus Syrian culture has much respect for independent women which you can find in many different areas of every day life. 4- As for exchange rate, there are couple of things that needs to be cleared: The are two rates: the “official” rate by the central bank of Syria which is relatively stable ( now about 434 SYP for 1 USD) and the black market price which changes by the hour and is hard to keep track with ( now about 625 SYP for 1 USD). 5- Syria and Israel are still in a war state, and Israel still doing, until this day Arial bombing to different locations in Syria with the entire world staying quiet about it. The borders are closed, with UN buffer zone since 1970’s with many Syrian lands occupied by the Israelis. An Israeli stamp on your passport will ban you entrance to Syria and vice versa. 6- In Syria there is no racism towards religion/color/ethnicity/etc.. we are all humans and every one is welcome, you will find full shades of humanity in the streets plus all kind of religions (even Jews, which was a surprise for some people). Just be respectful and you shall be respected back. 7- Couch Surfing is functional in Syria, as i was a host until 2018 when i moved to Germany. But you should always look for good references and avoid the creeps like in every other country. 8- Money wise: Cash and cash only. no Credit/debit/online/mobile/Googlepay/Applepay payments. Payments in currencies other than the Syrian Pound are not accepted. There are plenty of official exchange points in all major cities. 9- I personally recommend to visit Maaloula ( https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maaloula ) as it is the last city to speak western neo-aramaic language (the actual language of Jesus Christ) plus it’s a very important christian monuments and history. (Yes, Syria is full of christian history and attraction sites and has a big Christian community too). 10- If you speak to locals, it is recommended to say Crisis or situation, as referenced here in this article. what i want to add is you can too say war, since we see it as war including many nationalities from all around the world. But in no circumstance, I mean NEVER call it a civil war, because this is how the war was being falsely advertised in the west, especially by US/UK news agencies, which will take us to the next point. 11- Being a journalist is definitely a bad point to get in. it is not impossible though. i don’t know if there is any Development regarding this subject. 12- If you, for any reason, got sick in Syria, you can go directly to a pharmacy, where they probably would understand and speak English, then they will guide you what to do or where to go, (you can get prescription medications without a prescription if the pharmacist sees it fit, plus medications are super cheap). 13- Always have your passport on you, all the time. 13- If you have any other questions, i would gladly try to answer it to the best of my knowledge, and you can write to me in Arabic, English, German or French.

thanks for your amazing feedback man!

How is it possible to use Couchsurfing if foreigners can only move around in the country when together with a guide?

I am talking about independent travelers, i hosted a guy from China and another one from Malta back in 2018, I don’t have information on how to obtain a visa as an independent traveler, but i know it is possible.

Unfortunately its impossible unless you got your visa thru a travel agency, that’s the bnew rules

Thanks for all the updated information. Syria is on my list. Planning my second trip to Lebanon, will see what is possible to add Syria this time. So I will keep following this site (big thanks to Joan for sharing his experience). Best regards from Germany

5. I repeat what I said in a previous comment. I visited Israeli with a Syrian stamp in my passport(in fact, my itinerary was Syria-Lebanon-Syria-Jordan-Israel). So, it is not true that visitors to Syria are banned from visiting Israel. 10. I am confused. Syrians I know tell me Assad and his ethnic group, a minority, control most of the country and and other groups like the sunni majority and the kurds, are discrimininated by them . The war, or whatever you may call it, has put these groups and others fightinh against each other. They are all Syrians and so if they fight against each other, in English, it is a civil war. Care to enlighten me why a civil war can not be called a civil war?

HELLO JOAN TORRES: I thank you from the bottom of my heart for a most enjoyable trip to Damascus on Sept. 2019, made possible by your informative and generous advice through your exceptional posts. I contacted many consulates, embassies, travel agents, and got no replies. Your recommending Ayoub Smadi of Marrota Travels, answered my requests within hours. He personally, with office staff as Ghaidaa and Jasmine, the brilliant and amiable border expert, provided me a most memorable visit. I wish you long lasting success in all your endeavours.

Glad you had a great time with Ayoub. I only recommend the best!

Dr. Miguel It was a pleasure meeting you, i hope you are still in a good health, thanks for the recommendation and the good words, looking forward to see you again in Damascus. Be safe, god bless

Hey man! I unexpectedly realized we have a friend in common, Hadi from Tripoli in Beirut 🙂 We are very good friends and he personally recommended me to contact you about my ideas plans to travel to Syria! (just 3 days in Damascus actually). Could you assist please? Thanks!!

Hey man, that’s awesome! Yeah, I met Hadi almost 3 years ago during my trip to Lebanon. What do you want to know about Syria?

Hi Joan! Amazing post- thank you so much for taking the time to curate this resource and for connecting me with Mr. Ayoub. I’ve been in touch with him via email and Whatsapp over the past month – he’s provided me with great resources for various itineraries that his company organizes within the country. Communication has been prompt and professional- however I just found out today that my security clearance application was rejected and that all Americans would be rejected for the time being. From the beginning, he set expectations appropriately, that there was a 40% chance of it being approved as an American, which I considered to be too good to be true, and diplomatic relations have eroded since then. I figured this might be a helpful update since the situation is always evolving. Glad I tried and glad my experience was with him- this just gives me more time to explore Lebanon, which of course you provided an incredibly helpful blog post for as well. Thanks again, and safe travels!

Hey Andrea, thank you so much for your positive feedback, and update, and I am very sorry to know that your security clearance was rejected 🙁 Truth is that the diplomatic relations between both countries, USA and Syria, are so volatile and you never know what can happen

Hi Joan, Mr. NOUR HAIDAR keep appearing here. Do you know him?? Does anyone ever contacted him? TQVM

Hi, thanks for a great article. I’m planning a trip to Lebanon in the spring and a few days in Syria sound really interesting. Actually now I’m considering the option of continuing to Jordan – as travelling on Icelandic passport I have visa on arrival to Jordan, do you think that arriving from Syria would affect that status?

Hello, I would like to travel in April to Lebanon and Syria and I also thought about to visit Jordan from Syria. I have still a lot of douth. Specially about Visum and be able to across every country that I want to visit. If doesn’t annoyed you, I would like to be in contact with you in order to feel more calm while I’m organising my solo travel. Thank you

Joan, thank you very much for such a detailed guide. Are there any updates about visiting Syria alone, without travel agency? Is it still really hard to get clearance?

Hi Joseph, As far as I know, the situation hasn’t changed. Unless you have very strong contacts, your only way to get the clearance is via a travel agency and they will only give it to you if you book a tour with them

Hi Joan I’m Syrian living abroad and haven’t seen my home, my family in 10 years. Your words about my home country dropped me in tears. I thank you from my deep heart for this article.

Syrians are very cool nice people, warm heart and welcoming (our problem was always the government not the people, like any other threatened communist regime, zero humane). Of course I will be so much happy to hear that tourists are visiting Syria, Tourism in many countries is one of the main source of income for local economies, in addition for many people who are stranded within syria with no possibility to travel nowhere, for those; seeing a tourist is like seeing santa-cruise on Christmas.

You are always welcome, please be safe and ask a lot before you travel to Syria.

And Joan, couple of years ago I’ve visited Barcelona, it was the most beautiful vacation I’ve ever had, you should be proud of such a place, next time I’m visiting Spain will contact you for an advice.

Thanks for your kind words, and if you come back to Barcelona, let me know and we can meet up for a coffee/drink. Cheers!

Hello. Thank you so much for all the Information. It’s really help. I would like to travel to Syria in April, but the travel agency look like really expensive. More than 1600€ and I’m looking for another alternatives. I don’t know if the travel agency that you know he books just the guide or also the hotels like mine. Any extra information that you think I have to take on mind I would appreciate. Thank you in advance.

Hi Cristina, i already have an itinerary for April 6-11 in syria, with travel agency and german guided tour. Are you interested to join? Maybe we can get in contact, if you want.

I’m glad for this post, seriously Seria is one of the most beautiful countries in the world and I used to travel to that part of the world frequently. It a shame because most people would be put off visiting even when it safe.

I have some news!! In 16/2/2020 all syrians assured us by telling us that aleppo is now safe! That means that war is finished

I’ve travelled to Syria in October 2019 as an independant travel. The situation was perfectly safe in Damascus and surroundings (despite it can change from one moment to the other.. Car bombs in February 2020 in Damascus). Regarding the visa, it seems to be the most difficult part of the process of the travelers, in my case I applied in the embassy in Buenos Aires because I’m argentinian. I filled a simple paper with a reference contact in Syria (a syrian friend in my case). It’s important to know that your syrian reference will be contacted by the Security Office in Syria. They will ask about the relation between you and other questions for security purposes. This is the most important part of the application. Without an sponsor you won’t receive the clearance approvals. It took 4 weeks in total to have my visa stamped on my passport (the same type of visa before 2011) . Also, the authorisation is online and you don’t need to have visa stamped on passport. It cost 105 U$ and I only paid when approved. I traveled in a shared taxi from Beirut some hours before the chaos has started and roads became closed. The trip took almost 3 hours. Many checkpoints in the syrian roads but everything straightforward. I’ve walked the city accompanied and unaccompanied and never was detained for anything both in the old city and in new Damascus. I took taxis without any problem so I don’t know why you say it’s mandatory to be accompanied by a local all the time. The only you must take care is avoid take pictures of the military checkpoints. Damascus is without any doubt one of the most interesting cities to visit in the world but you should know that situation in this part of the world is so much volatile and you never know what can happen. Enjoy it!

Since reading your blog a few days ago I have made a booking for May with Ayoub at Marrota travel. A couple of emails and Ayoub is getting my Visa which will take 1-2 weeks. He has various well priced packages for Damascus only or longer for Homs. Included are getting visa organised and car pickup from hotel and return in Beirut. The hotel choice looked great. As an elderly female travelling alone I have chosen Beit Al Wali which looks fabulous. Am so excited will post more after my trip.

thanks, can’t wait to hear it!

Extremely educational article. Although I am not thinking of traveling there anytime soon, your article was a very interesting read.

I have just returned from trip to Damascus and I can say I’m so happy I took this trip and experienced Damascus myself. I felt perfectly safe, maybe even safer than back home. Food is so tasty! Beers can be found everywhere. Seeing locals living local life and talking to them was priceless! It’s totally opposite to what they serve us in western media! Trip (and security clearance) was organized by Ayoub and the guides were girls from Marotta agency. They were all so professional! I fully recommend them!

Thanks for sharing your experience with us 🙂

Hello, please confirm if google maps works in syria without the use of a vpn. I heard that it is jammed by the government. Or if there is any substitute?

i have been asked by a friend to come to Damascus and help her with a yoga retreat, but that seems impossible as a visa can only be acquired by taking a tour. I contacted the tour operator marrota, but he couldn’t help me or give me any solution. So the only way to go to Syria is with a fixed schedule tour. And you cant stay with a friend for 10 days.

Dear Joan I find that we are like-minded people in the sense that I love the Middle East and its people that cannot be quenched. Over the past 20 years or so, I’ve had the pleasure of visiting Morocco, Tunisia,Egypt, Lebanon,Syria and Palestine. I just cannot get enough of these countries especially Ancient Egypt (have made six visits) and remain hungry for more….does it ever ?, and dear, dear Syria. My heart bleeds for this now tragically destroyed country that I visited on three separate occasions and vowed to return. I must return. Last year I spent A month in Egypt and on my way back I stopped over in Dubai for my connecting flight. On my last night in Dubai, I decided to have a coffee in the foyer of the hotel I stayed at. Somebody approached me , sat down, we chatted and when he told me that he was from Syria. I couldn’t contain myself’ hugged him and wept tears of joy. Such was th mix of emotions that had weighed upon me on that unforgettable meeting. I can go on forever, it seems. . But, well, I won’t. I would like to know whether I could go there – I am not afraid- I trust and love and miss Syria so much. The Australian advisory is “Do not travel”, and I do know that when people returned here , that were suspect, even locked up,Do you have any info in this regard ? Thanks for reading this. I’d better stop now with kind regards. Francois

hey Francois, thank you so much for your beautiful comment, and here’s hoping you can go back to Syria soon! As per your concern, I have a Syrian stamp in my passport for more than a year now and didn’t really have any issues other than my Algerian visa being denied. I hold a Spanish passport and never heard of anyone getting into trouble with their governments

Thanks, Joan for your response. I think that I haven’t made my query clear enough. I may well be paranoid so that my problem was somewhat shrouded in secrecy. I actually meant that there were. I believe , instances where Australians travelling to “no go” countries were denied returning to Australia or interrogated overturning. Anyway, should I decide to greenback on a trip to Syria, I’ll take the bull by the horns and see where it all ends up. Best wishes to you. Francois

Hello, Thanks for your interesting articles about Syria ! I’m planning to visit Syria in the future, once the COVID-19 will be over. I’ve found an association in Paris that will help me with the visa. I have several friends who visited Syria recently due to their associative / religious ties there and enjoyed their time here.

Hi Stef, do you have any updates on you trip regarding Syria? How is the situation as a independent traveler at this point and time?

Hello Simon,

Unfortunately, I had to cancel it because of coronavirus… I’ll wait for Syria to ease visa procedures. Getting a visa for independent traveller seems impossible.

Hi, thank you for these valuable comments about Syria and Lebanon. Can you please advise as to the feasibility of a motorcycle trip from Europe to Syrian and Lebanon? Coming from Europe (Switzerland), I’d like to travel through Turkey, Syria and Lebanon with my motorcycle this coming summer (2020), assuming that the restrictions due to the COVID19 situation will no longer be in force by then. Is it possible to travel in Syria and Lebanon with a vehicle registered in a foreign country? Is it possible to cross the borders between Turkey and Syrian, and Syria-Lebanon? I will want to push further south to Israel and Egypt. Do you know if the border between Lebanon and Israel is open for motorcyclists travelling with their own bike? Thanks.

Hi Francis, here are my answers: Turkey-Syria border – Closed Syria- Lebanon border – Closed Lebanon-Israel border – Closed

As per traveling around Syria on a motorcycle, I am not sure about it but what I can tell you is that. as of today, you can’t apply for a visa unless you book a tour, so traveling independently with your motorcycle could be difficult

Hi Francis, do you have any updates regarding the boarders Turkey-Syria/Lebanon-Syria? I am planing to cross Syria with my bicycle at the end of 2020 and the beginning of 2021. Cheers Simon

Thank you Joan!

Hi!, I’m Polish living in Oman. My husband (Egyptian) got a job offer from Syria and we are seriously thinking about moving there when the covid-19 crisis is over (we are thinking about beginning of 2021). I’m trying to find some recent information about travelling there and life in Syria now. The biggest concern for us is transporting our dog. I did not find any regular flights to Syria so I can check the requirements for transporting a pet. Are there any planes having regular flights to Damascus?

Dear Joanna, i live in Syria, the situation here is safe, don’t listen to the fake media. when Covid19 situation ends, you can transfer your dog with you easily by flight.

What is the situation near the archaeological sites at Mari, near Tell Hariri? Is visitation possible? Is it safe?

Mari(Tall Hariri) located in Syrian army controlled area’s , but it’s not possible to visit because it’s near the Kurdish control area’s .

I’m American, living in Damascus, Syria for nearly a year now. Life feels incredibly normal here, despite how it’s perceived in the media. It’s definitely not somewhere I’d rush to visit right now, especially considering the current economic crisis and the collapse of Lebanon, but I do hope that tourism will return to Syria one day. Syrians are incredibly kind and hospitable, and the country is so rich in history.

Hi everyone I’m nadr from homs city in the middle of the country All what he said above is actually right I can help any tourist who wants to come here and take a tour around the city Welcome to syria Wish you all the best ❤️

Hi Nadr. Thanks for being so kind and thoughtful. I am just curious what is a good time to visit Syria? A very good friend of mine is really keen to visit Syria and fortunately, I came across this post and thought to collect more details before I share with him. Thanks and looking forward hearing back from you soon

I would LOVE to visit Syria ..there are some awesome Free Syrians I have become friends with..but you will be a fool to try and visit with Bashar Al Assad still in some power..don’t think for very much longer though..HE GOT TO GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I wouldn’t pay too much attention to your Syrian friends say, they might well use your friendship to promote a syle of government you would never live under. Or they might say what your government wants to hear as they claim asylum. Don’t blame them in the second instance. This is a travel site, but I will say not every Muslim wants to restore the Ummah and live under a constitution that is not secular. For Syria that’ll mean another few centuries of war, look at their history, centuries of attacks from east and west. The adoption of a Sharia constitution will inevitably lead to the ill-treatment of Christians and Muslim (inc. Sunni minorities), as Britain will spur them on. You might welcome that American man in for his 3rd term of office. His wife is Jewish so he could well send the Jews (Israelis) into Syria to commit another genocide. I wonder how the Syrian Muslim Brotherhood will fare under them. Hamas, the Egyptian Muslim Britherhood didn’t do too well. In case you really aren’t a Muslim fundamentalist, the Brothers are the only opposition in Syria. Its a clash of ideologies not political parties.

Thank you for sharing your story and perspective and doing it with such compassion and heart. This was simultaneously beautiful and heart-breaking.

Hi Joan, I was also in Lebanon in 2016. It was my first time in the Middle East and I went to visit my Aunt and Uncle after their baby, my cousin, was born. My Uncle is American and was working in Beirut where he met my Aunt, who is Lebanese but raised in Australia as her family fled the civil war. I absolutely fell in love with Lebanon and am grateful that we got to visit Journey, Byblos, Tripoli and Baalbek, which is 30 miles from the Syrian border. I wanted to go to Damascus but, as you know, it wasn’t doable as this was the height of ISIS. That being said, I never once felt unsafe in Lebanon and Beirut reminded me a lot of NYC, where I live. I’m hoping to get back to the Middle East once a Covid vaccine is released and your blog is my go to for up to date info. Long story short, thank you for the detailed information you always provide!

Thanks, Cara for sharing your great experience. Hope we all get a vaccine soon and you can go to Syria 🙂

I remember having read somewhere that Syria would do a visa system similar to the Iranian one. It would be great for us travellers. Did anyone hear anything about this ? Thanks, Stef’

Hi Stef, to be very honest and unfortunately, I seriously doubt it, not in the short term at least.

Hi, I’m planning to visit Syria around the end of this year from the UK but only concerned about the Covid, I’ve heard the border is open now. Any advice about going during the pandemic? or simply just recommend not to go?

hey, I’m from Lebanon, and I was planning to go to Syria. but Syrian friends that are living in Lebanon right now said that there is a lot of control at the Syrian borders and using or having USD is considered illegal and you might get some problems at the military checkpoints ( Like taking away your money …). The covid 19 is uncontrollable with no proper health system and Some regions are still unsafe. I don’t know if there are recent updates from locals that are living there or more recent traveling experiences.

Hi Kate, do you have any updates on your plan? I am also interested to visit Syria at the end of the year. Since I am in Turkey and travelling with my bicycle, I will most likely have to enter thru Lebanon. Any updates are appreciated. Cheers

Hi, I may change my plan to visit Syria next year around March given to the circumstance right now.

Hi, The borders and airports in Syria are open only to Syrian citizens and international organizations, who have obtained an entry visa through a close relationship with a Syrian citizen inside the country. Borders and airports are closed to tourism, there are no exceptions at the moment. It is a great hope to allow tourists to enter before Christmas. For those entering Syria currently, there is no home quarantine, the procedures followed are to check the PCR test and exchange cars at the border because no Syrian or Lebanese car is allowed to enter the borders of the other country.

Hello Joan,

I don’t travel as simply as you do. I prefer to have archaeologists show me around a country and I found a licensed archaeologist tour guide in Syria. The problem is that the government’s rule would require me to use an official tour company rather than just a government-loyalist tour guide, which I already intend to use. This would add more than $1000 to the cost of the trip. Do you know of any ways to get the requirement to use an official tour company waived so long as you’re accompanied by an official tour guide at all times?

By the way, while many travelers dislike the idea of a guide, I think using a knowledgeable archaeologist or historian tour guide is an excellent way to really learn about the history of the sites while increasing the labor intensity of tourism, thereby giving money and employment to a country that needs it, don’t you think? I’m just still angry at that German tourist for ruining things for the rest of us, even if you’re not lol.

Too bad they’ve shut the borders because of the coronavirus and currency crisis. Hopefully they will give me a visa this May after I show proof of vaccination.

Hi there! I think that going with a liscensed tour guide is enough but the problem is that in order to get your visa, you must get it through a tour operator

Hi My husband and I plan to drive to the UK from the UAE starting in October this year. COVID depending. Would we be able to drive from Lebanon to Turkey through Syria? Would this be safe? Would we be able to get a transit visa? Thanks Hanneke

Hi Hanneke, as of today, the Turkish-Syrian border remains closed. It will also be difficult to get a visa to travel around Syria independently by car, but you should contact the person I recommend on this blog

Hello, Joan! This post isn’t about Syria, though I am interested in visiting Syria one day, but I noticed that you mentioned that you are from Spain. Have you ever been/do you know anything about Barcelona? I was planning on traveling there in May 2020, but COVID put a stop to my plans. I still want to plan a different visit in the future because I have always wanted to travel to Spain. If it’s not too much trouble, could you give me some recommendations on where to go in Barcelona? Or, really, anywhere in Spain? Any advice would be great. Thank you so much for your time and I really enjoyed reading your blog.

Sincerely, Elly

Hi Elly, I moved to Barcelona now, but I suggest you visit my hometown area, anything around Cap de Creus and northern Costa Brava, from Palamós to Portbou

Hi, I am a Canadian who is looking to visit Syria in the summer (if the covid situation calms down). Do you know if the entry requirements have changed? Do I need to book a tour? Have the visa requirements changed? I have been told that I can contact the Syrian embassies in Brazil or Cuba to file a visa application.

Hi Kiki, so far, the country remains closed, so there aren’t any updates or changes regarding entry requirements

Thank you Joan! do you know where I can receive updates about it?

Syria is officially open to Iraqi tourist groups, government sources said that the country will soon open to all nationalities within two months.

I live in Syria currently, and i speak English like a native, if you ever needed help coming to Hama city i would be there 🙂

Hi, I’m an American who would like to visit Syria for 3 or 4 months starting in April or May. Is the situation the same? Is the government still expecting to open to tourists soon? Are there some good Arabic schools you could recommend?

I would recommend against this. There are a number of issues with your plan such as the length of time you want to stay, and how you intend to obtain your visa. As an American, you’ll also be under more scrutiny.

On the Syrian ministry of tourism website

It doesn’t mention , tour groups

I wonder if things have changed ? And people can travel independently

Hi Hasan, the info found in the Syrian ministry of tourism website, or any embassy’s will never be updated

Hi! Any updates regarding traveling to Syria? Are the entry requirements still the same? Do we still need to book a tour?

Hi there, the country is still closed due to COVID19

Hola Joan, Muchas gracias por esta valiosa informacion. I have a couple of questions for you, regarding going to Syria and taking some things to help an animal shelter there. Do you think that it would be better to buy the things there, or do you think that it would cause any problems to take some items with me?

Thank you very much in advance. E.

Hi Ericka, items like what? In any case, we can answer most tourism-related queries, but I don’t know the legislation regarding your matter

Thank you so much! Best regards, Ericka

Hi, So you get a max of 10 days to tour Syria? Can you go and visit the people who are in need of help and help them? Is it allowed?

I doubt it, and hope not because you could be Islamic State. I shared a dorm room in Beirut in 2016 with a nice young Muslim woman from Canada. She was going to the Sabra/Shatila area of Beirut to volunteer with the Palestinians, many of whom, by then, had come in from Syria. Her father had sent her over from Canada and she supported the Islamists so was hoping to go to Syria with a charity that operated in Beirut. I’m sorry to say volunteering or do-gooding has helped IS get in to Syria and the anarchists in to get in to support the Kurds. I will admit most of them arrived from Turkey and entered Syria illegally. Why can’t you just visit and accept the country as it is?

Just rung the embassy, seems country is still closed to tourists due to covid 14th Oct 2021. Said a personal invitation might be ok but don’t have any contacts there and cant seem to find anyone online yet 🙂

Update! The borders have seemingly reopened to international tourism; visas are being issued. I am still uncertain as to what the Covid-19 entry/exit formalities are, but PCR test(s) are likely necessary.

Are the tourist visas, issued to individuals or does one still require a guided tour group based in Syrian ?

Correct. Visas are now being issued again.

Thank you for the info.

Just to confirm, I visited in the first week of December 2021. Everything was fine, but due to uncertainty over the Omicron variant, I would recommend caution before travelling. Do not visit Syria if you have any political, journalistic or humanitarian interest in the country.

did you go independently or did you have a guide?

Thanks! Dani

Let me get this straight – they put a guy in jail for taking a photo with a building? Sounds like North Korea if you ask me. No thank you.

Hey Joan Been following you for a while and feeding for your expertise to plan my independent backpack trip. Thanks for your amazing content. I’d be very keen on joining your Syria expedition but it’s sold out. Any chance you’ll have a second one some time this year? Thanks

Hello Joao! Yes, I will most likely in May. If you allow me, i can add you to my email list so you will find out when it’s released. Sounds good?

Sound good, please do so and looking forward to it! Thanks

actually, I just realized that you were already in the list!

Hi Joan, please add me to the list for the Syria tour in May, gracias, [email protected] , Caroline Horca

Do tourists still need to remain with a tour group when in Syria?

Hi there. Awesome blog. Really. Thanks for sharing your experience and views with us. I am planning to spend a month studying Arabic and I was considering Cairo, but I have just found out that Syria is open, which is great. Do you know any Arabic language schools in Damascus? Also… If you have any info regarding accommodation for a 1-month stay I appreciate. Shoooookran.

Hi can you add me to the list for the tour in May. [email protected]

Hey Joan Just learned from your IG that you’re planning to run a second expedition to Syria in April!!! :):):)

The meeting point would be in Beirut so we’d need to get a visa for Lebanon and Syria. Would you recommend getting the visas in advance or on arrival both in Lebanon and Syria? Btw, I have a Portuguese passport.

On the other hand, in case someone tests positive for Covid and can’t make the expedition, what is the policy there in terms of payments and options?

Thanks Joao

Hey Joao, yes but that one is for Spanish and is fully booked! If you want, you can join one in March. 2 spots left.

Consulta: Te escribo desde Argentina. En caso de querer hacer un viaje con vos, como es para ciudadanos de LATAM? Sobre para ciudadanos argentinos que hoy tenemos restringida las transferencias en dólares. Salen desde España o tienen algún contacto allí? Espero viajar con ustedes en algún momento, sobre todo Siria o Irak. Gracias amigo y felicitaciones.-

Hi Joan! I’m interested in going to Syria with a group, but I saw you mentioned Americans cannot travel to Syria. Might that be a typo? I’m not able to find that stated anywhere.

Hello Erin, unfortunately, US passport holders are not allowed to visit syria atm. Are you in my newsletter? I’ll announce it there once this ban reverts

Okay. I wouldn’t use the word “banned.” It sounds like you’re not comfortable bringing American passport holders, but we are allowed in the country. I had a group of friends go during the election last year.

Most people reading this site are American, so I am the first person who wants Americans to visit Syria – I have taken many Americans into Iraq – but in Syria they are currently banned, yes, banned. Ask any agency, either local or foreign, and you will see that nobody can get you a visa for tourism purposes. If you don’t believe it, then try to get one you will see. They are expecting things to change in the future but as of today, you can’t.

Last year, the country was closed due to COVID. They only opened in November and Americans have never been allowed since then, so I seriously doubt that your friends managed to get there with a tourist visa, nobody could. Maybe they went with a pilgrim or business visa, but that’s a different story. We only work with tourist visas.

Could you tell me where you’re reading that information? I don’t see it stated on the US embassy’s or US State Dept page. They definitely discourage you from going, but I do not see anything stating US passport holders will not be allowed in. The State Dept even has a “if you decide to travel to Syria” section.

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/syria-travel-advisory.html

https://sy.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/#:~:text=The%20Department%20of%20State%20continues,for%20U.S.%20interests%20in%20Syria .

This is Syria, things arent written anywhere. My team in Syria works closely with the security department, the one who issues the security clearance to be able to purchase a tourist visa and I can assure you that they stopped issuing SC for Americans

Hello, am an Austrian traveler and would like to know if it is possible to walk by foot from Beirut to Damascus and from there further south to Jordan? In terms of visa and security… PS: Am on a pilgrimage and want to avoid public transport… Many thanks for your help and information in advance, Georg Richtsfeld.

Hi there… The thing is that you can’t get a visa unless you book a tour with a valid travel agency. The guide must go with you to travel between cities and in the hypothetical case walking into Syria on foot was allowed, I don’t know if the guide will want to join you on foot… I can try, and ask, but you definitely need to be with the guide.

I’m interested in this tour. I am an American passport holder but I also have an Armenian passport. I live in the USA. I know Americans can’t get into Syria, so I can use my Armenian passport. Will this be an issue if they also find out I live in the USA and am also an American citizen?

Hey Matthew! You can certainly apply with your Armenian passport. We had American dual citizens (Russian and Italian) born in the USA who joined our tours, but the approval takes a bit longer, and they get it 80% of the time, so it’s worth trying. In the hypothetical case you didn’0t get it, you’ll get a refund.

Hello, Am I able to visit Syria these days with an American passport?

Hey Dan! Unfortunately, still not possible…

It has been a great help to find this web site, just before traveling to give a hand to a religious ONG working on the field in Syria. So important to know carrying a credit card is nowadays useless there…

Hello. I have planned to go from Beirut to Damascus for a few days. I would like to know if there are still some not too expensive places to stay, hostels or whatever. Because i have many difficulties in finding one available. Thanks !

Hey Joan, according to Marrota Tourism and Travel Syria is issuing visas to Americans now. Have you heard anything about this?

Hi Chris, yes it’s true. We haven’t applied for anyone yet, but I already got some Americans interested in joining one of our tours

Hey, I am planning to visit west Syria, I wonder if its safe to camp with a tent on beaches? Or even allowed? Also heard many kidnapping stories. Are they still going on or it was during crisis?

Hi Bulut, there aren’t any kidnapping issues but independent travel in Syria is not allowed

Hi – are your trips in November and December proceeding as planned? I am trying to get a better understanding of what the actual situation is on the ground currently in Lebanon/Syria for potential trips.

We canceled October and November trip but if situation in Lebanon stabilizes, we’ll run December for sure!

Thanks for the update. I was wondering about the current travel conditions.

Hi Joan, I am a native Syrian and I found all these Information pretty objective and true, thanks for the detailed blog. I am a female dentist living in Aleppo, and I wonder if I could somehow join in this tour in Syria as a translator or a travel guide in my city 😀 I am looking for chances to get in touch with English and German speakers, and I thought this would be a good idea. Or maybe helping the solo travelers. Feel free to contact.

Dear Aaya, thanks for your offer! You are welcome to hang out with us any time we run a tour into SYRIA!

I am planning to go to Syria in a couple weeks. Do you recommend it given the current situation?

I’m gonna be traveling the middle east by car next year and i’m really happy to hear I can also visit Syria! I was wondering if I can take my car with me into Syria. Are there any tours for that? Or maybe solo traveling will be allowed again soon? I have a Land Rover Defender, and i’m traveling up north from Saoudi Arabia, so probably will enter through Jordan. What would be my options?

Hi Natascha, you can enter with your own vehicle, just that the clearance at the border will take a long time.

As per the rest, you can self-drive, but the guide is supposed to go with you in the car.

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Home > Guide To Syros Island: Explore The Small But Mighty Greek Island

Guide To Syros Island: Explore The Small But Mighty Greek Island

Written by our local expert Gabi

Gabi is an award-winning writer who lives on the Island of Crete in Greece. She is an expert in Greek travel and writes guides for the everyday traveler.

Here is your Syros Island guide. We have covered things to do in Syros, Greece, such as where to stay and how to get there.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Guide To Syros Island

Syros is a small but prosperous Cycladic Island, the capital of  the Cyclades. A relatively recent touristic development makes it entirely off the beaten track and relatively free from mass tourism. It’s a perfect place for a tranquil holiday and ideal for enjoying  pristine, empty beaches , traditional villages, excellent gastronomy, and local music.

Syros Island is famous for its excellent restaurants, its rebetika music, and some delicious sweets such as loukoumi (Turkish Delight), mandolata (nougat), and halvadopita (a softer kind of nougat).

Ermoupolis, the capital of Syros, shines with a myriad of neoclassical mansions of exquisite taste and elegance, beautiful churches, and romantic alleys . The city is also close to some of the most amazing Syros beaches, most of them concentrated on the southern and western coasts.

Finally, a great trait to remember when deciding which Greek Islands to visit is that Syros is straightforward to reach from Athens and other islands, such as Mykonos or Santorini . This makes Syros a convenient destination to add to your island-hopping itinerary.

Now, our Syros travel guide below will tell you everything you need to know to plan a perfect holiday in Syros!

How To Get To Syros Greece

Since the island is the capital of the Cycladic cluster , there are different ways to travel to Syros.

How To Reach Syros By Plane

The island is connected to Athens all year long, with more than five flights managed by Olympic Airways every week. During summer, there are also seasonal flights from Thessaloniki .

The airport is located a few minutes from the center of Ermoupolis (only two kilometers), and it’s necessary to hire a taxi to reach the center of town since no bus service is available from the airport at the time of writing. The flying time from Athens to Syros is about 30 minutes.

Find affordable flight options here.

How to travel to syros by ferry.

Ferry travel is the most popular and convenient way to move around when visiting Greece and discovering the islands. You can reach Syros from Athens, either from the port of Lavrio (2-4 ferries weekly, with a 4-hour travel time) or from Greece’s main port, Piraeus (2-3 daily ferries, travel time of 3-4 hours).

Syros is also connected to most Greek Islands via ferry. You can reach Syros from Amorgos, Andros, Astypaleia, Ikaria, Milos , Mykonos, Naxos , Paros, Patmos, Samos, Santorini, Serifos, and other smaller islands too.

Book your ferries in Greece here.

What to do in syros – things to do in syros .

Despite being relatively small compared to other islands in the Aegean, Syros offers plenty of things to do. Plan  a stay of at least four days to see the island in its entirety, visit some of its fantastic beaches, discover its gastronomy and music, and explore traditional villages and its mountainous landscape.

This list below features some of the most unforgettable things to do and see in Syros for a fantastic vacation on the beautiful Greek island of Syros.

Discover The Gorgeous Architecture In Ermoupolis

Arguably, it is one of the most attractive cities in the Cyclades, and the capital of Syros deserves at least a short visit to discover the island . Home to some of the most unique architecture in Greece , Ermoupolis takes pride in its imposing neoclassical buildings.

Many of these mansions stand along the seaside promenade, next to bars and cafeterias, as a memory of when the island of Syros was one of the most important ports in Greece.

The city is divided into two distinct areas: the lower town, with an Orthodox tradition, and the upper Ermoupolis, home to most Catholics.

Wander Around Miaouli Square

Known in Greek as Platia Miaouli, this central square is located in an exquisite pedestrian area covered in colorful bougainvillea and palm trees. Here, visitors can discover some of the best cuisines on the island and fantastic cafeterias to have a late brunch or a cocktail after dinner.

Here, it’s also possible to visit the Archaeological Museum of Syros, which features objects coming from the island and Paros and Amorgos.

Check The Orthodox Quarter

Once you’ve visited the square, take the steps along Benaki Street and reach Vrondado Hill, the place hosting the Orthodox quarter of Ermoupolis. In this area, don’t miss a visit to the Church of the Resurrection (Anastasis), offering a breathtaking panorama of the neighboring islands of Mykonos and Naxos from the top of its dome.

If you are interested in the churches on the island, not far from Miaouli Square, pay a visit to the Church of the Resurrection, which houses a holy icon of the Virgin, made by the famous painter El Greco during his young years.

Explore Vaporia

Probably the most beautiful neighborhood in Ermoupolis, Vaporia used to be the quarter where the wealthiest merchants and shipowners on the island built their stunning mansions.

Located close to the port, the area’s splendor is highlighted by the paved alleys with arches and neoclassical buildings with marble details, paintings, and frescoes. Opposite the site, you can also visit the church of Saint Nikolas, the patron saint of Ermoupolis.

Admire The City From Ano Syros

Not far from Miaouli Square, you will find the highest hill in Ermoupolis, home to the medieval quarter of Ano Syros (Upper Syros). Get lost walking along the magical alleys of the area, which host several Catholic churches. Don’t miss the beautiful Saint George Cathedral or the Capuchin Monastery of Saint John, dating back to 1535.

Also, in Ano Syros, it’s a good idea to visit the Markos Vamvarakis Museum. Vamvarakis was one of the most crucial rebetika musicians in Greece. Rembetika, also known as the urban blues of Greece, is an underground music style that flourished during the twentieth century as a combination of traditions and expressions of social concern.

Syros is one of the best places to discover more about Rembetika, as it is also where the Festival of Rembetika takes place every year.

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Check out some of the best beaches in syros.

Several beautiful beaches in Syros are not crowded even during the peak season, which comes with that famously sunny Syros weather.

Galissas Beach

Galissas is the biggest beach on the island . Its pristine sandy shore and shallow waters make it ideal for families.

Since it’s just minutes from Ermoupolis, it’s easy to reach by bus. This makes it popular among visitors.

Fr om Galissas, it’s possible to reach the small naturist beach of Armeos, which is often quite solitary.

Agathopes Beach

The beach features a fantastic, unspoiled nature, with white beach lilies blossoming on the sand. This beautiful shore is a protected area ideal for swimming. There are several diving centers in the area, so it’s possible to experience the magnificent underwater life of Syros.

The beach is well-organized. There are sunbeds, umbrellas, and taverns where you can enjoy a refreshing drink and a traditional lunch. Several hotels and studios are also in the area.

Azolimnos Beach

The tiny and attractive village of Azolimnos is a great place to stay on the island. Located 4 km from Ermoupolis, this small beach is excellent for a calm swim and unforgettable underwater experiences. The beach features crystal clear waters, several diving centers, and fish taverns by the sea.

Several hotels and studios near the beach offer both luxury and budget accommodations. You will be happy to know Azolimnos is connected to Ermoupolis by bus.

Finikas Beach

From Galissas Beach, you can ride the bus south to reach the long and narrow beach of Finikas in about 10 minutes.

The area is well-developed, with bars, cafes, and places to stay. Not far from this shore, you can also reach the nearby beach of Posidonia, also known as Delagrazia Beach.

Megas Gialos Beach

South of Posidonia, the beaches of Megas Gialos and Ambelia are two long beaches with trees offering plenty of natural shade to spend the whole day in total relaxation.

Kids especially love the coast in the area as it’s shallow and safe; besides, it’s possible to rent a boat to discover some unique hidden caves by the sea.

Ahladi Beach

Probably the best family-friendly beach in Syros, it is protected from the typical wind of the Aegean, the Meltemi. Therefore, families with children often seek refuge in the area on windy days.

Located about 7 km west of Ermoupolis, Kini is another family-friendly area in Syros. Here, there are several simple tavernas and restaurants for a quick but tasty Greek lunch. The sandy beach is protected and relatively shallow. You can rent sunbeds and umbrellas or lay down under the several tamarisk trees that grow by the sea.

Discover The Culture Of Syros Greece

The town hall and the archaeological museum.

The Town Hall is located in Ermoupolis, in Miaouli Square. The neoclassical building dates back to 1898 and has clear traits of Bavarian architecture. Its central area is entirely made of marble, while an imposing marble hanging ladder leads to the first floor.

The Town Hall also hosts the Archaeological Museum of Syros, the Court of Law, and other public services, and it is often described as one of the most beautiful Town Halls of Greece .

Taste Local Wines

Don’t miss the opportunity to taste the island’s wines. The small Syros Winery is located in Talanta village, on the way to Galissas Beach. Here, wine lovers can sample the rare Cycladic vineyards blessed by the island’s microclimate: intense sun, northern winds, and sandy terrain.

Shop For Traditional Products

There are several art galleries and souvenir shops to visit in Syros. However, some of the most traditional souvenirs you can take home from Syros are the delicious sweets produced on the island. The most famous of all is loukoumi, also known as Turkish Delight.

These delightful candies are known all over Greece, but Syros produces some of the best quality ones. They are handmade gummy sweets traditionally made with almonds, starch, and sugar.

Loukoumi comes in unique flavors, including mastic, rose, and pistachio. Different tour companies in Ermoupolis organize day trips to taste this delicacy and witness the production process. You can also visit a loukoumi factory.

The Casino Of Syros

Try your luck on the island! The Casino of Syros, Greece, opened in 1997 and is one of the few casinos in the Aegean.

The Muses Hall features various board games, including Roulette, Blackjack, Stud Poker, and some slot machines.

Archaeological Site Of Halandriani

It is not huge, but indeed interesting, as this archaeological site was discovered back in 1895.

The main feature is a cemetery from the Early Cycladic period, with graves housing many expensive items that are solidly connected to the island’s marine essence.

Most of these objects can be admired at the Museum of Syros.

Cycladic Art Museum

Also, in Ermoupolis, this museum in Miaouli Square was founded in 1983 and is housed in an impressive two-floored neoclassical mansion designed by an Italian architect.

Minimalistic figurines of Cycladic origin are among the most remarkable objects, some dating back to the 3rd millennium BC.

The museum organizes frequent guided tours for adults and children

Syros Island With Kids

Kids will adore the beaches of Galissas and Kini, walk the streets of Ermoupolis, and explore some of the island’s museums.

In Kini, children can have a great time visiting the small aquarium. Although the place is reasonably small and can be seen in less than an hour, the local aquarium of Kini features various local fish and marine creatures from the Aegean Sea . The aquarium also features a small exhibit area of artifacts found under the sea and an exhibition of divers’ underwater photographs from shipwrecks .

Another activity that kids will enjoy in Syros is horseback riding. The Equestrian Club of Cyclades offers riding lessons, trail riding, pony rides, and other educational activities for adults and children alike.

Boat rides are an excellent opportunity to spend a fun day with kids in Syros. Some rides take you to the unspoiled northern coast of Syros, part of the Natura 2000 program, for families to discover unique beaches with enchanting waters. Most tours depart from Kini Beach.

Check out more interesting things to do with kids in Greece here!

Where to stay in syros greece,  budget places to stay in syros.

Galini Rooms and Apartments is a fabulous place to stay in Finikas, only 500 meters from the beach. The property offers a children’s playground, a garden, and free private parking for all its guests.

All units feature a fully equipped kitchen, a dining area, a TV with cable channels, and a coffee machine are also provided. Moreover, there’s a barbecue and a terrace for the guests.

Click here for more information and the latest prices.

Aegean Paradiso Vacation Club has excellent reviews and is a great place for families to stay. It’s located only steps from the beach in the village of Azolimnos.

The property features an outdoor swimming pool, self-catered accommodation with a terrace or balcony, and pool or sea views. Surrounding the pool, guests can find free sunbeds, umbrellas, and a children’s pool.

Mid-Range Hotels In Syros

Syra Bay is a super convenient place to stay in Syros if you want to spend your time enjoying one of the best beaches in Syros.

This comfortable property is located steps from Megas Gialos Beach and is only 12 km from Kini Beach. This is a complex with self-catering units, all of them with a terrace or a balcony, and fully equipped for a comfortable stay.

Magnolia Senses is a pet-friendly and convenient hotel with a beautiful garden in the area of Kini. The accommodation features air conditioning in every unit and studio, as well as a comfy seating area or a terrace.

Luxury Hotels In Syros

Faros Resort is a comfortable Syros hotel for families right by the sea. It overlooks a private natural bay and boasts stunning views over the Aegean.

Among the things that guests appreciate the most are the elegant pool with sun terrace and bar and the whitewashed rooms combining Cycladic style and modern aesthetics.

This resort is just 3.5 km from Ermoupolis and only 350 m from Azolimnos sandy beach . Families prefer this place since it also offers babysitting services, making it one of the best Syros hotels for young families.

Syros Village Suites in Vari is one of the top hotels to stay in Syros. It features a great location, only 600 meters from Vari Beach. Families love this Syros hotel since it offers free bikes, an outdoor swimming pool, a garden, and a bar. Guests also love the possibility of spending time in the hot tub or booking a room with a plunge pool.

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Where To Eat In Syros

Allou Giallou

If you’re spending some time in the village of Kini, then reach the beach and enjoy the cuisine of Allou Giallou. Dishes combine traditional Greek flavors with modern preparation and presentation. Seafood is king in this venue, and the setting is romantic, perfect for a dinner under the stars next to the sea.

Kouzina Syros

Right in the heart of Ermoupolis’ main square, this friendly place is a perfect option for a family meal. Kouzina Syros serves simple, no-frills cuisine and family-friendly dishes.

Another great place to eat in Ermoupolis, Ousyra, is a chic venue specializing in fine dining. Here, go for their hearty risottos and other great dishes with a strong Mediterranean influence. If you’re looking for a top-class culinary experience, head to this venue in the romantic alleys of the town .

Are you planning to spend your day in Galissas Beach? Then don’t miss a meal at Savvas, serving excellent Mediterranean dishes in a beautiful location with fantastic sea views.

What are the main highlights of Syros Island?

Syros Island offers a mix of neo-classical architecture, stunning panoramic views, historic sites, and beautiful beaches. It is known for its rich history and unique blend of Orthodox and Catholic cultures.

How can I reach Syros Island?

You can reach Syros by ferry from various ports in Greece, including Athens International Airport . Syros also has a national airport for domestic flights.

What are the must-visit destinations in Syros?

Some of the best places to visit in Syros include Ermoupoli, the capital of the island, the Apollo Theatre, the Cathedral of Saint George, and the picturesque village of Delfini.

What is the significance of Syros in Greek history?

Syros has a rich history dating back to the Greek War of Independence. It played a crucial role as one of the first islands to join the revolution against the Ottoman Empire.

What is unique about the architecture in Syros?

Syros boasts stunning neoclassical architecture, with influences from prominent architects like Ernst Ziller. The island’s Venetian and Cycladic influences are also prominent in its buildings.

What can I expect during my holiday in Syros?

A trip to Syros promises a blend of relaxation, history, and culture. You can enjoy the local products, explore the beaches, visit historic sites, and immerse yourself in the unique island atmosphere.

What are some interesting facts about Syros Island?

Syros is home to the famous La Scala, a miniature replica of Milan’s opera house. It also welcomed Greek refugees from Asia Minor, adding to its diverse cultural heritage.

Now that you have this Syros travel guide, we hope you have a great time discovering all the things to do on the Island of Syros, Greece.

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Comments (2)

Do you know what Ferry Company goes between Syros and Folegrandos? Looking to do another island hopping trip next June. Enjoyed your Syros guide. Kind regards, Douglas

SeJets and Hellenic both do. I like to use an aggregator site eg: https://www.ferryhopper.com/en/?aff_uid=chsgdnk to look up what companies and times they go. Enjoy your trip.

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How to get to Syros?

Syros is one of the most developed islands of the Cyclades and it stands out for its amazing architecture.

You can find all the needed information to travel to Syros below! • Ferry • Flights

In brief, Syros is easily accessible by plane and ferry from Athens but the island, as the administrative center of the Cyclades, is also connected with many other islands in the Aegean.

Don't forget to get informed about the local transportation options , schedule your transfer to your hotel, and explore every spot on the island easily!

Syros can be reached from several ports across Greece. Both conventional and high-speed ferries reach the port of Ermoupolis . From Athens, travelers can take a ferry to Syros from either Piraeus or Lavrio. Itineraries from Piraeus are more frequent, though. Kavala (a coastal town in northern Greece) and Karystos (a seaside town in Evia) are also connected with Ermoupolis Port. Last but not least, visitors can travel to Syros from other islands of the Aegean. Indicatively, Syros is connected via ferry with Mykonos , Tinos , Lemnos , Samos , and Chios . During summer, the number and frequency of routes increase, making it possible to combine a visit to Syros with a visit to many more Greek islands. We provide a user-friendly ferry ticket service rated . Read reviews .

Find Schedules & Book Tickets

Syros has a national airport that connects the island with the International Airport of Athens . It is not possible to fly to the island from any other airport in Greece or abroad. The airport is located only 3 kilometers from Ermoupolis and can be reached by taxi or private means of transport.

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21 Things to Do in Golden, CO: Exploring History and Adventure

Julie Diebolt Price

Named for the precious metal that lured prospectors and settlers from across the country during the Gold Rush, Golden, Colorado, is a vibrant gateway to adventure, history, and innovation. A short 15-mile drive west of Denver, Golden feels like a world apart with wide open spaces and stunning landscapes of the Front Range and the Rockies.

Golden uniquely blends natural beauty, historical depth, and innovative spirit. Whether you’re drawn to the roar of Clear Creek, the towering presence of Lookout Mountain, or the quiet streets lined with historic buildings, Golden invites travelers to explore and discover everything it offers.

Downtown Golden

When I arrived in Golden, the vibrant ruby and golden leaves on the trees against the blue sky were a welcome sight—the unseasonably warm fall days made a perfect setting for Golden.

On my walking tour of Downtown Golden, I enjoyed the Old West ambiance with a small-town feel. The Welcome to Golden Arch makes a perfect selfie background.

Table Mountain Inn was the perfect home base for my visit. This historic hotel, located on the main street in downtown Golden, Washington Avenue, was steps away from fun things to do, boutiques, saloons, dining halls, outdoor activities, and more.

Read More: Why Table Mountain Inn is a Great Destination in Colorado

1. Golden Visitor Center

The Golden Welcome Center  is on the north side of Clear Creek Washington Avenue and has an abundance of brochures and information about the area available on outside racks. It also includes maps and guides about where to stay, dine, play, and shop in Golden. The Golden Visitor Center is close to the Golden History Museum and the Golden History Park.

2. Golden History Park

At Golden History Park , formerly Clear Creek History Park, you can tour the original buildings from the Pearce Ranch in Golden Gate Canyon, and get a taste of pioneer life.

The 1800s cabins are authentic, and you can peek through their windows. You can also spot other structures from the ranch, such as the barn, chicken coop, and two-seat outhouse.

The ranch belonged to Thomas and Henrietta Pearce, who raised eight children there. By 1912, it became one of the largest ranches in the area.

Admission is always free.

3. Golden History Museum

At the Golden History Museum , you’ll meet the legendary people who built Golden and learn about the local famous breweries. Exhibits include:

• Versatile program meeting rooms.
• A children’s hands-on gallery.
• A collection of 15,000 historic objects.

4. Foothills Art Center

Heading up the hill from downtown, the Foothills Art Center , founded in 1968, is housed in the former First Presbyterian Church. The Center offers a selection of exhibits, events, and programming for the community and artists. As of this writing, it is closed for construction.

5. Sherpa House Restaurant and Cultural Center

The Sherpa House Restaurant and Cultural Center  is worth seeing. You can meditate with a prayer wheel on the artistically landscaped grounds and enjoy an authentic Nepalese meal in the restaurant, which was doing brisk business the evening I was there.

6. Colorado School of Mines

The renowned Colorado School of Mines graduates students specializing in STEM – Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. The students, called Orediggers, are in high demand when they graduate because they earned a reputation as problem-solvers, leaders, and innovators. The graduates receive silver-plated metal diplomas engraved with the seals of the Colorado School of Mines and the State of Colorado.

7. Mines Museum of Earth Science

The Mines Museum of Earth Science  is the repository for the most extensive public collection of minerals from Colorado. Mines Museum is home to one of the Apollo 17 mission’s Goodwill moon rocks.

Visitors can explore an indoor cave showcasing glowing minerals, hike along the Bob Weimer trail, and stop by to see authentic triceratops trackways. The exhibits rotate regularly, so there is always something new to see.

8. American Mountaineering Museum

If you’re interested in mountaineering history, safety, and culture, take advantage of the Bradford Washburn American Mountaineering Museum . It’s the first and only museum in the nation dedicated to this subject.

Since its establishment in February 2008, the museum has been striving to interpret knowledge about mountains and educate people on mountaineering history, safety, and culture in a new and innovative way.

The museum is in the American Mountaineering Center. With 3,500 feet of space, it features exhibits on climate, science, cultures, and humanities related to mountains, guaranteeing a rich, exciting, and interactive visitor experience.

9. Clear Creek Whitewater Park

The Clear Creek Whitewater Park , established in 1998, is an exceptional recreational attraction in Golden. It offers a thrilling experience of recreational canoeing and kayaking, covering a quarter of a mile of exciting and splashing fun with an 800-foot course. The course is a challenging series of drops and pools, shallow surf waves, and extreme surf and wave drops. The U.S. Olympic Kayak Team practices at the course.

10. North Table Mountain

About 60 million years ago, North Table Mountain and its sister mesa, South Table Mountain, were formed by lava flow. Table Mountain Park offers over 15 hiking trails, making it an ideal destination for those with limited time and who want to go hiking near Denver. The best time to visit is in spring and early summer when the wildflowers are in full bloom, but the trails are open year-round.

11. Colorado Railroad Museum

The train horn blasting draws people from near and far to the Colorado Railroad Museum . Watching the behemoth steam engine provides entertainment for anyone. Even better, catch a ride on that very same steam engine, and you’ve got entertainment for the whole family.

With paid admission, you can tour cabooses in the rail yard and get a real sense of train travel in the Old West.

12. Coors Brewery Tour

Because Golden is the home of Coors Brewery, it is only fitting for you to schedule the Coors Brewery Tour into your itinerary. Coors Brewery is world-famous for being the largest single-site brewery.

The Coors Brewery Tour  showcases the history and passion for brewing. You get a 30-minute look at their malting, brewing, and packaging processes, along with viewing old photos, historical beer cans, bottles, neon signs, and other memorabilia from the Coors archives. Tours and brews sampling times vary, so check their website for details and schedule.

13. Golden City Brewery

Famous for being the second largest brewery in Golden, after Coors Brewery, Golden City Brewery  has been pioneering craft beer since 1993. It’s Golden’s original microbrewery.

Founded by two geologists, Charlie & Janine Sturdavant, the Golden City Brewery began operations in the old machine shop behind their historic Golden home. The brewery is still in the machine shop, with a second level added later. The carriage house is the tasting room, and the beer garden is in the backyard.

They are known for crafting exceptional Red and Pale Ales and various other beer styles.

14. Distilleries

If you are looking for something a little stronger than beer, you’ll find some distilleries in Golden offering specialty drinks and unique atmospheres. You can get hand-crafted cocktails at Golden Moon Distillery , State 38 Distilling , and Local Distilling.

Day Trips Outside Golden

15. golden gate canyon state park.

Golden Gate Canyon is about 20 minutes northwest of downtown Golden and less than 15 minutes past the Canyon. The Park is managed by Colorado Parks & Wildlife.

Here is a list of all the outdoor activities you can enjoy at Golden Gate Canyon State Park.

• Fall Colors
• Gold Panning
• Hatchery Tour
• Horseback Riding
• Paddleboarding
• Rock Climbing
• Range Shooting
• Skating and Sledding
• Skiing & Snowshoeing
• Snowmobiling
• Star Gazing
• Wildflower Viewing
• Wildlife Viewing
• Winter Lodging

The Park is dog-friendly. You can rent a cabin or yurt, and it requires a Parks Pass.

16. Lariat Loop Scenic Byway

The Lariat Loop National Historic Byway  scenic drive will take about two to three hours, depending on how many stops you make.

From Golden, take Highway 6 to Lookout Mountain Road. Go up the mountain, then southwest down to I-70 at Genesee. Take Highway 74 through Evergreen to Morrison and complete the loop when you reach Highway 6 again.

When I was there, countless hang gliders were plying their skills in the sky around Lookout Mountain and Golden.

17. Morrison-Golden Fossil Areas National Natural Landmark

Incredible fossils and geology are at Triceratops Trail, Dinosaur Ridge , and other sites within the Morrison-Golden Fossil Areas National Natural Landmark.

Colorado’s Front Range includes the long hogback ridge between the Rocky Mountains foothills and the Great Plains grasslands. Originally named the Dakota Hogback, it became the Dinosaur Ridge because of all the fossils in this area.

Check in at the Gift Shop in the Main Visitor Center, where you can take a guided tour by bus, the most popular way to experience Dinosaur Ridge.

Read More: Best Dinosaur Museums in the US

18. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater  offers many exciting live music performances and fitness programs like Yoga on the Rocks. Visitors can take self-guided tours beginning one hour before sunrise and continuing one hour after sunset. You can start by walking through the Visitor Center and exploring the interactive educational displays that highlight the geological and musical history of Red Rocks.

Many short self-guided hikes are available to experience the beautiful Red Rocks environment fully. Red Rocks Parks and Amphitheater is about 17 miles from Downtown Denver.

SheBuysTravel Tip:  It was late in the day when I was there. Traffic was building for the concert that evening, and access was restricted. You must plan your time carefully here. If you’re going to attend a show, ride-sharing options are a good choice.

19. Buffalo Bill Museum and Gravesite

William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody, a frontiersman, scout, and host of a Wild West show, is buried at the top of Lookout Mountain. He asked to be buried on the mountain overlooking the Great Plains, where he spent much of his life. The Buffalo Bill grave is well marked.

Cody got the nickname “Buffalo Bill” because of his prolific slaughter of bison to feed the Kansas Pacific Railroad workers after the Civil War.

The Buffalo Bill Museum  opened in 1921 in partnership with the City and County of Denver by Buffalo Bill’s foster son, Johnny Baker. Johnny and his wife Olive, owners of the artifacts, managed the museum, café, and shop, which the Bakers named “Pahaska Tepee” after Cody’s hunting lodge outside Yellowstone Park.

Read More: Best Things to Do in Cody Wyoming Near Yellowstone

20. Lookout Mountain Nature Center

The Lookout Mountain Preserve and Nature Center  is less than two miles from the Buffalo Bill Museum and Gravesite.

At the Nature Center, many nature enthusiasts volunteer to observe and document the natural surroundings. During my visit, I noticed several individuals sitting on benches, drawing, sketching, and taking notes while they observed the beautiful scenery.

The interactive exhibits fascinated me because I could get up close and look wildlife in the eye.

Families, solo travelers, and school groups can all have a great time at the Center. Kids will especially enjoy the hands-on playroom and observation room; everyone can participate in the naturalist-led programs. And for those who want to explore independently, a walk through the nature preserve is a great option.

21. Boettcher Mansion

In the Lookout Mountain Nature Preserve, the Boettcher Mansion  is a gem in a secluded setting. The Mansion was built as a lodge for hunting season and a summer home for Charles Boettcher, a hardware-selling magnate, and is now on the National Register of Historic Places. Today, it serves as a venue for social gatherings like weddings, receptions, commitments, and memorial ceremonies.

Places to Eat in Golden

With many great places to eat in Golden, it’s difficult to say which was my favorite. I ate at Table Mountain Grill & Cantina, Sherpa House Restaurant and Culture Center, Woody’s Wood Fired Pizza, Ali Baba Grill, and the Golden Mill Food Hall.

Read More: Best Restaurants in Golden CO: A Foodie’s Guide

Places to Stay In Golden

There are many great places to stay in Golden. I was fortunate to stay in a suite at the Table Mountain Inn. Located on Washington Avenue, I was mere steps away from the excitement and charm of this Wild West town.

Read More: Best Hotels in Golden CO

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27 Unmissable Things to Do in Golden, Colorado – Best Outdoor Activities, Museums, and More!

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Golden, you’ve come to the right place! There’s a reason we made Golden, Colorado our home sweet home. This charming town known as “Where the West Lives” offers the best of both worlds. Golden offers the culture and convenience of a small city and the outdoor adventure opportunities you want from a town in the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains . Located just a half hour from Denver , Golden is an easy day-trip destination or weekend getaway where you’ll feel far away from busy city life.

As Golden residents, we are proud to share all the best things to do in Golden! We’ve spent countless hours exploring our backyard. It seems like the more we do, the more we end up adding to our Golden bucket list! Whether it’s as calm as fly fishing or adrenaline-pumping as white water rafting, we cover the best outdoor activities, museums, restaurants, and festivals plus even more things to do in Golden!

Read on to discover the best things to do in Golden, Colorado , the portal to the Mountain West!

Table of Contents

1. Hike the Best Trails in Golden

Golden is one of the best hiking destinations in the Front Range , and with its proximity to Denver, it’s an easy way to get out of the city and into the mountain air! Most of the hiking trails are also mountain bike and pet friendly. There are plenty of easy trails, most of which are at lower levels of elevation (for Colorado anyway!), so hiking is a great thing to do in Golden before you hiking at higher altitudes to help you get acclimated!

Our favorite place to hike in Golden is Golden Gate Canyon State Park . This park has several hiking trails of varying lengths and difficulty, from super chill hikes suitable for young children, as well as more moderate-to-difficult options. We particularly like the Raccoon Trail and the Blue Grouse Trail to John Frazer Cabin .

Pro Tip: Visit Golden Gate Canyon State Park in the fall to see the aspens turn their magical yellow hue!

Lookout Mountain Park and North Table Mountain Park are also great places to hike in Golden and are close to downtown. If you’re looking for more alpine and snow-capped mountain views, you should go to Lookout Mountain . If you’re short on time, head to North Table Mountain for views of the surrounding foothills, and, on a clear day, the Denver skyline.

Other popular places to hike in Golden are Apex Park , Clear Creek Canyon , and Centennial Cone .

2. Go Whitewater Rafting in Clear Creek

Even if you have never whitewater rafted before, going on a rafting trip in Clear Creek is hands down one of the best things to do in Golden. Just minutes from downtown are some of the best spots to put in for a rafting adventure, again proving that Golden is the perfect mix of city and nature!

The rushing waters of Clear Creek are fed by snowmelt and run-off, creating rapids ranging from gentle to intense. The best time of the year to whitewater raft in Golden is in the spring and summer when the water is flowing most heavily from the snowmelt.

Whether you are a seasoned rafter or a beginner, there are a variety of guided tours that cater to your skill level and preferences. Experienced guides provide instructions on paddling techniques, safety measures, and local history to ensure a safe and memorable experience. Here are some popular white water rafting tours in Clear Creek you can book!

3. Go Tubing in Clear Creek

If whitewater rafting isn’t your speed, you can slow things down by going tubing in Golden! Clear Creek is a popular tubing spot for locals and visitors alike.

Close to the city of Golden, Clear Creek flows much more gently than further upstream. With its gentle currents, small rapids, and scenic views of the Rocky Mountains, Clear Creek provides an ideal setting for tubing enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels.

Several tubing rental companies in Golden provide rental services for inner tubes, transportation to and from the creek, and instructions on safety measures. You can even rent tubes from shops right in downtown Golden at Adventure West.

Always make sure you check water conditions before embarking on your tubing adventure, as high water levels can make tubing dangerous . Sadly, there have been deaths in the past. Lastly, we recommend watershoes (we like Chacos ), sunscreen , and plenty of water to stay hydrated.

4. Go Fly Fishing

Golden is renowned for its world-class fly fishing opportunities. With its pristine waters, abundant fish, and stunning mountain scenery, Clear Creek is a fly fisherman’s paradise , offering fly fishing enthusiasts the chance to catch a variety of trout species, including brown, rainbow, and cutthroat trout.

You’re probably catching on that Clear Creek is one of the best outdoor adventure spots in Golden! Unlike tubing or whitewater rafting, however, fly fishing in Clear Creek requires patience and a desire to slow down and experience nature’s calm.

New to fly fishing? Golden is home to several fly fishing outfitters that offer guided tours for beginners and experienced anglers alike. Check out Golden Fly Shop or Golden River Sports for fly fishing gear rentals and tours in Clear Creek. These tours include instruction on casting techniques, fly selection, and other essential skills to help you get the most out of your fly fishing experience.

5. Rock Climb in Golden

Golden is home to several popular rock climbing areas, including North Table Mountain and Clear Creek Canyon . These areas offer climbers a variety of routes, ranging from beginner-friendly to challenging, multi-pitch climbs for experienced climbers.

The rugged sandstone cliffs of North Table Mountain provide some of the best rock climbing in Golden. The panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains from the top of the cliffs are breathtaking and provide a stunning reward for your efforts.

Clear Creek Canyon is another popular rock climbing destination that offers a variety of routes for climbers of all levels. The canyon features narrow gorges and steep cliffs that are perfect for technical climbing and bouldering. Climbers can also enjoy the scenic beauty of Clear Creek as they make their way up the canyon walls.

Golden is home to several rock climbing outfitters that offer guided tours and equipment rentals for climbers of all levels. These tours include instruction on climbing techniques, safety measures, and other essential skills to ensure that your climb is both safe and enjoyable.

6. Visit Dinosaur Ridge

Dinosaur Ridge near downtown Golden is a world-famous geological and paleontological site. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the fascinating history of dinosaurs and the earth’s ancient past!

Dinosaur Ridge is home to a variety of dinosaur fossils and tracks that date back over 150 million years . The highlight is the impressive rock wall of dinosaur tracks, considered by paleontologists as the most impressive and important example of dinosaur footprints on earth!

You can see the tracks on the Dinosaur Ridge Trail , a one-mile walking trail that takes visitors on a journey through time. There are several interpretative boards alobg the trail, but fo ra more immersive experience, you can book a tour.

Tip: Be sure to check out the view of Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater from the trail, too!

7. Ride a Train at the Colorado Railroad Museum

For a more relaxed activity in Golden, Colorado, head to the Colorado Railroad Museum to explore the history of trains in the state. The museum features over 100 locomotives and cars and even has a train ride for visitors.

One of the highlights of the museum is the collection of historic trains and locomotives that are on display. In addition to the trains themselves, the museum also features exhibits on the history of railroading in Colorado, including its impact on the mining industry, agriculture, and transportation. Visitors can explore the exhibits and learn about the challenges and triumphs of the people who built and operated these impressive machines.

For those seeking a more immersive experience, the museum offers train rides on a historic steam locomotive . The train takes visitors on a scenic tour of the surrounding countryside, providing stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and the foothills. Tickets sell out frequently, so be sure to book in advance !

8. Take the Coors Brewery Tour

You’ve probably heard of the Coors Brewery , but did you know it’s located right in Golden, Colorado? The Coors Brewery has been producing some of the world’s most popular beers for over 140 years.

The Coors Brewery Tour is a must-visit destination for beer lovers and anyone interested in the history and science of brewing. The brewery tour takes visitors on a journey through the entire brewing process, from the raw ingredients to the finished product.

This was one of the first activities Tim and I did in Golden. We had a great guide who was enthuasiastic and told us all about the history of the Coors family and the evolution of their beers. A highlight of the tour for us was visiting the brewhouse with its massive vats and machinery . The tour also includes plenty of samples , and we even got to keep the souvenir aluminum cups they served us with!

Be sure to book your Coors Brewery tour tickets in advance ! You can do so on via the Coors Brewery Tour website .

9. Visit the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave

Visiting the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave is one of the best things to do in Golden, Colorado to learn about the life of one of America’s most famous cowboys. The museum features exhibits about Buffalo Bill’s life and legacy, as well as a beautiful view of the mountains.

Located on Lookout Moutain , the Buffal Bill Museum features a variety of exhibits and displays that showcase Buffalo Bill’s life and achievements, as well as the history of the American West. Visitors can explore artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia from Buffalo Bill’s life, including his Wild West Show , which traveled across the United States and Europe, entertaining millions of people and shaping the world’s perception of the American West.

We also really enjoyed the short film that summarizes Buffalo Bill’s life and impact. It helped put the artifacts into context!

Tip: While on Lookout Mountain, don’t miss the Boettcher Mansion . This historic mansion was built in 1917 and features beautiful architecture amidst mountain views.

10. Take a Walk Through Downtown Golden

Downtown Golden has tons of restaurants, shops, and attractions all within walking distance. For a walking tour that strings together several of the best things to do in Golden, we recommend using this map we created of all the best things to do in Golden to create a walking route based on your interests!

You’ll see that most things to do are located right downtown, including the Golden History Museum, Coors Brewery, river tubing, shopping, and more. Click here to open the map of Best Things to Do in Golden, Colorado and see a categorized list of all of the locations

11. Visit the Golden Farmers Market

Visiting the Golden Farmers Market is a must-do activity for anyone who loves fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious food and drinks. The market takes place on Saturdays from June through October and is located in the heart of downtown Golden.

At the market, you’ll find a wide variety of vendors selling locally grown fruits and vegetables, homemade baked goods, artisanal cheeses, and much more. You can also browse through a range of handmade crafts, from jewelry and clothing to pottery and artwork.

The market is a great place to meet locals and experience the vibrant community of Golden. It’s also a family-friendly destination, with plenty of activities for kids, including face painting and live music.

12. Go to Buffalo Bill Days in July

Buffalo Bill Days is an annual festival that takes place in Golden, Colorado, in honor of the legendary Wild West showman, Buffalo Bill Cody. The festival typically occurs in late July or early August.

The festival features a variety of activities and events, including a parade, a car show, live music and entertainment, and a range of food and drink vendors. One of the highlights of Buffalo Bill Days is the Best of the West parade , which features floats, marching bands, and local organizations showcasing their creativity and spirit.

Tip: If you are visiting Golden during Buffalo Bill Days, be sure to also check out the Buffal Bill Museum and Grave on Lookout Mountain so you can have a deeper appreciation of the history behind the festival!

13. Celebrate Goldens in Golden

Goldens in Golden is a celebration of golden retrievers in downtown Golden. The even takes place every February (weather dependent!) and is the most adorable festival you will ever attend. Imagine a downtown street packed with dogs and their humans, and that is Goldens in Golden. During the festival weekend, local businesses offer special pet-friendly packages, so if you travel with your pup and plan to visit Golden in February, be sure to check it out!

Stay in the know on event dates and schedules on the official Goldens in Golden festival website.

14. Dine in a Yurt at Sherpa House

The Sherpa House Restaurant is a unique and authentic Nepalese and Tibetan restaurant owned and operated by a Nepalese family who bring their cultural heritage and culinary expertise to the menu.

The atmosphere at Sherpa House is warm and inviting, with traditional Nepalese decor and cozy seating. The menu features a variety of dishes that are inspired by the Himalayan region, including popular Nepalese and Tibetan dishes such as momos, curries, thukpa, and tandoori . There aren’t many options for South Asian cuisine in Golden, but thankfully Sherpa House overdelivers with a unique and authentic atmosphere and delicious food!

Tip: Ask if there is any available seating in the yurt for a unique dining experience at the Sherpa House!

15. Grab a slice at Woody’s Wood-Fired Pizza

Woody’s Wood Fired Pizza is a popular wood-fired pizzeria located in downtown Golden, Colorado. This locally owned and operated restaurant is known for its delicious, authentic Neapolitan-style pizza and its warm and inviting atmosphere. It’s a local favorite , so get here early on weekends if you want to dine in! Otherwise, we recommend picking up a pizza to go and enjoying a picnic in one of Golden’s parks or along the Clear Creek.

16. Enjoy a fancy coffee at Windy Saddle Cafe

The Windy Saddle Cafe is a cozy and welcoming cafe downtown that offers a range of delicious breakfast and lunch options. What won me over, however, were the fun and unique coffee and espresso drinks they serve. My personal favorite is the Gold Digger , inspired by Golden’s mining history and made with espresso, caramel, chocolate sauce, whipped cream, and milk. It’s dessert for breakfast with a dose of caffeine!

The food menu at Windy Saddle Cafe features a variety of breakfast burritos , breakfast sandwiches , and quiches . Additionally, there is a bakery case that offers a range of fresh-baked goods such as muffins , scones , and pastries .

17. Get a Flight or a Growler at Barrels and Bottles Brewery

Barrels and Bottles Brewery is a charming craft brewery that offers a rotating selection of craft beers, as well as a selection of wine, making it a great spot for beer enthusiasts and non-beer drinkers alike.

Visitors can enjoy their beer flights and pints while sitting at the bar, at a table, or on the outdoor patio.

One unique aspect of Barrels and Bottles Brewery is their “Bottle Shop,” which offers growlers of craft beers and bottles of wines for purchase to take home. This is a great way to try some of their delicious brews at home or to bring a gift for a beer-loving friend!

18. Eat and Drink at Golden Mill

One of our favorite food and drink experiences in Golden is the Golden Mill . This fun and innovative food hall doubles as a serve-yourself brewery . When you arrive to Golden Mill, you put your credit card on file and they issue you a card to swipe at the food stalls and drink taps inside. It’s the easiest and most fun way to enjoy a variety of beers and sample food from several vendors. If you want pizza AND barbecue, you can have it at Golden Mill.

Overall, it’s a fun, laid-back, and social place to hang out and enjoy a few drinks and some bites. We especially love it in summer when you can sit on the patio and enjoy the views of Table Mountain.

19. Go to a concert at Red Rocks – or even a hike

Red Rocks Amphitheatre, in Morrison, Colorado, just a short drive from Golden, is one of the most iconic music venues in the world, known for its stunning natural beauty and unparalleled acoustics. The amphitheatre is surrounded by stunning red rock formations that provide a breathtaking backdrop for concerts and events.

Red Rocks has been hosting concerts and events for over a century, and it has become an iconic destination for music lovers from around the world. Legendary musicians have performed at Red Rocks over the years, including The Beatles, U2, and The Grateful Dead.

Red Rocks is more than just a music venue! The amphitheater is surrounded by a network of hiking and biking trails , making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. You can take a scenic hike before or after a concert, or join locals for sunrise and sunset on the trails.

20. Brunch at Cafe 13

Cafe 13 is my favorite brunch spot in Golden . It’s also my favorite coffee shop to work from when I feel like a change of scenery from my home office! The cafe specializes in serving up delicious breakfast and lunch dishes, along with freshly brewed coffee and tea. I usually order their loaded avocado toast with a cappucino .

In the summer, a coveted spot on the outdoor patio at Cafe 13 is the perfect way to start the day. But, if you can’t linger, you can grab and go as well!

Tip: Colorado is famous for its green chilli , and Cafe 13 makes their own in-house. Enjoy!

21. Golden History Museum and Park

If you’re a history buff , you won’t want to miss the free Golden History Museum , located in downtown Golden. The museum features dynamic displays that showcase the city’s collection of 15,000 historic objects, as well as versatile programming spaces and a hands-on gallery for families with young children. The museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m .

Near the museum and affiliated with it, you can step back in time and experience life as a homesteader at Golden History Park , formerly known as Clear Creek History Park . This historic site features original buildings from the Pearce Ranch , one of the largest ranches in the area in 1912. Stroll through the park and peek into real 1800s cabins, as well as other buildings from the ranch, including a barn, chicken coop, and two-seat outhouse. You can also visit the 1876 Guy Hill schoolhouse, which was moved to Golden in 1976. Admission is free, and the grounds are open daily from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m . Check out the events schedule to see when the buildings are open for visitors, and be sure to chat with the friendly volunteers who serve as interpreters within the historic structures. The park is located at 11th & Arapahoe.

Whether you are a history buff or just want to deepen your appreciation and knowledge about the Golden area, the Golden History Museum and Park is one of the best things to do in Golden!

22. American Mountaineering Museum

The American Mountaineering Museum is a unique and fascinating museum dedicated to preserving the history and culture of mountaineering and rock climbing in North America. Inside the museum, visitors can explore a range of exhibits that showcase the evolution of mountaineering gear and techniques, as well as the stories of famous climbers and expeditions.

Whether you’re an experienced climber or just curious about the history of mountaineering in North America, the American Mountaineering Museum is one of the best museums in Golden.

23. See a Moon Rock at the Free Mines Museum

The Mines Museum , also known as the Colorado School of Mines Geology Museum , is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in geology, mining, and mineralogy.

The museum features a wide range of exhibits that showcase the history of mining and geolog y in Colorado and beyond. Visitors can explore interactive displays that demonstrate the process of mining and mineral extraction, as well as learn about the different types of minerals found in the region.

In 1974, Nixon gifted each state and 160 countries with two “Goodwill” moon rocks from the Apollo 17 mission. One of Colorado’s moon rocks has been on display at the State Capitol, and the other was thought to be lost until 2010. Now it’s one of the most interesting pieces on display at the Mines Museum.

This is a particularly great activity to combine with Dinosaur Ridge , since the two attractions are nearby to one another and align with a similar interest in paleontology and geology!

24. Take a Self-Guided Public Art Walking Tour

Golden is home to over a dozen works of public art, ranging from statues to beautifully painted murals on buildings. Use the map below to guide your own walking tour of Golden’s public art! This is one of the best free things to do in Golden and is perfect for families, friends, or even a date night.

25. Visit the Foothills Art Center

The Foothills Art Center is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and celebrating the arts. The center features a wide range of rotating exhibits and events that showcase the work of local and national artists. The center’s galleries feature a diverse range of artwork, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and photography.

The Foothills Art Center also offers a variety of educational programs and classes for both adults and children. Workshops , lectures, and demonstrations are held throughout the year, covering topics such as painting, drawing, sculpture, and printmaking.

26. Drive the Lariat Loop National Scenic Byway

The Lariat Loop is a 40-mile Colorado Scenic & Historic Byway that combines several smaller roads, including Denver’s Mountain Park system, to offer breathtaking views of the Front Range. The Loop starts in downtown Golden, where you can grab a coffee or picnic to go and begin your drive up Lookout Mountain, a 4.3-mile road that climbs 1,300 feet with drop-offs and viewpoints.

The road continues to the 7,379-foot summit of Lookout Mountain . The loop then heads to Genesee Mountain Park and the buffalo overlook, where you can see Denver’s herd of 40 buffalo and enjoy a snowcapped mountain panorama. There are over 40 points of interest on the Lariat Loop. Read about them all here .

27. Bike the Clear Creek Trail

The Clear Creek Trail is one of the most beloved paved bike paths in the Denver metropolitan area and one of the best things to do in Golden! The trail spans 19 miles alongside the beautiful Clear Creek, starting in Clear Creek Canyon and ending at the South Platte River where it meets with another 40-mile paved bike trail. The route is shaded with trees for almost its entire length, offering a peaceful and scenic experience with the relaxing sound of rushing water.

As you ride along, you will be immersed in the history of the region, where the big gold strikes of Central City and Black Hawk were discovered in the mountains. The trail also passes by the Coors Brewery and the Colorado Railroad Museum.

Tips for Visiting Golden, Colorado

Now that we’ve covered the best things to do, here are some additional tips and logistics t o help you further plan your trip to Golden, Colorado!

Where to Stay in Golden, Colorado

Take a look at these highly-rated hotels in downtown Golden!

• Golden Hotel Ascend Hotel Collection
• The  Eddy Taproom and Hotel
• Origin Red Rocks a Wyndham Hotel
• Table Mountain Inn

Best Time of the Year to Visit Golden

Are you unsure of the best time to visit Golden, Colorado? To be honest, Golden is an awesome destination year-round. And I’m not just saying that because we live there!

The spring months in Golden offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds, making it the perfect time to explore the great outdoors without the summer heat. You can go hiking, and biking, and enjoy several other outdoor activities. However, the weather can be unpredictable, with occasional snowstorms and rain, and some tourist attractions may not be open until late spring.

Summer in Golden brings warm weather, long days, and plenty of outdoor activities such as kayaking, paddle boarding, and hiking. The town also hosts several outdoor concerts and festivals. However, it can get crowded, with long wait times and lines at popular attractions, and temperatures can become quite hot.

Fall is undoubtedly the best time to visit Golden. You can enjoy mild and comfortable weather and the stunning fall foliage for which Golden is famous.

The winter months offer beautiful snow-covered landscapes, skiing and snowboarding opportunities at nearby resorts, and fewer crowds. However, some attractions may have reduced hours or be closed altogether, and the weather can be cold and unpredictable. It’s important to be prepared for snow and ice on the roads, especially if you plan on driving in the mountains.

What to Pack for Golden, Colorado

Assuming you’ll be doing some outdoorsy activities like hiking on your visit to Golden, Colorado, here are some items we recommend packing.

• Day Pack:  It’s so helpful to have a good day pack to carry everything you need. I’ve had the  Osprey Skimmer 20 for Women  for years and it’s held up on every adventure! And here’s the  Osprey Talon 22 Pack for Men !
• Water Reservoir:  If your day pack doesn’t have a water reservoir in it already, you can buy one separately to slip into your bag. It’s absolutely NECESSARY that you bring water with you on every hike. Here are our favorite  2-liter reservoir  and  3-liter reservoir !
• Sun Protection:  This is so important year-round – even more so in winter when the snow can reflect the sun back up to your skin, multiplying your exposure!  Sun Bum  is our favorite  sunscreen  brand.
• Hiking Boots : I always hike in my  Columbia hiking boots . I literally have these in multiple colors because I love them so much! You can’t beat the price for the quality, too. Tim always hikes in his  Foxelli boots .
• Socks : I started wearing these double-layer  Wrightsock  brand socks when marathon training years ago and have never gotten a blister with them! In winter, I might mix it up with  merino wool socks , too.
• Sunglasses : I love these  wooden frame sunglasses , so they are my go-to.
• Hiking pants : These  hiking leggings  are my favorite in winter. In summer, I usually hike in  biker shorts  or leggings.
• Moisture-wicking layers : I wear this  pullover  all the time (it went around the world with us in 2014 and is still in great condition) and their  wool t-shirts  are great base layers. There are also  SmartWool t-shirts for men !
• Jacket : I always pack my  Columbia jacket  when hiking in the mountains.
• First Aid Kit : An  ultralight first aid kit  is a must-have for every hike. You never know what can happen, and you’ll be glad to have a  first aid kit  if you need one!
• Camera : I always hike with my  Sony a7iii . It’s a great full-frame camera for capturing all of our hiking memories!
• Snacks :  Clif Energy Bars  are our favorite hiking snack. It’s got the perfect mix of carbs, fats, and protein to power us through our hikes!
• Trekking poles : Many people like hiking with trekking poles to reduce the impact on the knees, especially going downhill. These  Black Diamond Trail Back hiking poles  are really popular!
• If you’re hiking Golden in winter, you’ll want to bring a pair of  microspikes  and/or  snowshoes  with you. These will slide over your boots and keep you from slipping on icy portions of the trail. Trust us, you’ll be able to enjoy your hike so much more if you aren’t worried about falling on the ice or snow!

More Golden, Colorado Travel Inspiration

• Ultimate Guide to Golden Gate Canyon State Park
• How to Find John Frazer Cabin in Golden Gate Canyon
• Essential Guide to the Raccoon Trail
• Comprehensive Guide to Lookout Mountain
• Everything You Need to Know about North Table Mountain
• Paleontologists Say These are the Best Dinosaur Footprints

Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do in Golden, Colorado

Are you planning a trip to Golden, Colorado? Drop us a line and say hello! We’d love to answer any questions you have about our beautiful town.

We hope this ultimate guide to the best things to do in Golden, Colorado gives you some ideas and inspiration for your next Colorado vacation, weekend getaway, or even just a day trip!

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Plan Your Visit to Golden, CO

Located in an area of spectacular natural beauty, Golden is where the mountains meet the plains. The area offers outstanding outdoor recreation with biking, hiking and kayaking all available right in town. Golden also offers a wonderful, small mountain town atmosphere with creekside restaurants, outdoor cafes, fine dining, art galleries, outdoor recreation shops, one-of-a-kind boutiques, quaint historic homes, and a variety of museums. 

And then there is the beer.  Golden is home to the world’s largest single-site brewery, as well as to a half dozen craft breweries and distilleries.

Where Can I Use The Bathroom In Golden?

There are three public restrooms available in Golden: Parfet Park (701 10th Street), Lion's Park Ball Field (10th Street North of Clear Creek), and near the Astor House (822 12th Street). All have code locks that automatically open and lock the restrooms daily. They are set to be unlocked from 7AM to 10PM daily.

What Is The Elevation Of Golden?

5,675’

Where Can We Take A Short, Easy Hike?

Try the trail along Clear Creek! It’s paved, there aren’t a lot of changes in elevation, and you can stop by several Golden attractions while you walk. For a list of trails in Golden,  click here . 

Where Can I Park?

Click here  for a full list of places to park in Golden. 

How Can We Get Around?

If you do not have your own transportation, downtown Golden is walkable, but if you need to get to the other regions, we recommend using the free  Ore Cart Transit Service .

Is Smoking Allowed?

Downtown Golden is a smoke-free zone. Smoking in other regions is only allowed in designated areas.

Are Dogs Allowed?

Yes, but all dogs must be leashed. There are off-leash dog parks located at Tony Grampsas Memorial Sports Complex and Ulysses Sports Complex if you want to let your furry friend run free.

Can We Go Tubing?

It depends on the creek status. Check the current status before you go or look for colored flags along Clear Creek that correspond to the safety levels on the Creek Warning Flags sign . 

How Can I Talk To Someone About Golden?

The Golden Visitors & Information Center, located at 1010 Washington Ave, is a great resource for the Golden area.  Please stop in or call 303-279-2282. 

Welcome To Golden!

Here are a series of possible itineraries in colorado’s first capital city..

• Enjoy the Arts in Golden at galleries, museums and nearby Red Rocks Amphitheatre.
• Walk or bike ride Golden’s Famous Beer Trail, from Coors to award-winning craft breweries.
• Re-live the Old West in Golden with Buffalo Bill, railroaders and mountaineers at the town’s museums .
• Go shopping in Golden under the famous arch at one-of-a-kind boutiques.
• Dine in Golden from the tastiest deli sandwiches and pizza, to gourmet meals in gorgeous locations.
• Hike the hills around Golden including North and South Table Mountain, Lookout Mountain and Mount Zion.

Transportation

Golden is accessible by light rail from downtown Denver’s Union Station.  Trains run as often as every 15 minutes to the Jefferson County Government Center. Complete your trip from the Government Center to downtown Golden using the Ore Cart Transit Service , a car service or walking or biking on the paved, scenic 3-mile trail. 

Golden is also just a few minutes drive from I-70 and is located directly on U.S. Hwy 6. Located just 12 miles west of Denver, Golden is a short, pretty drive from nearby major attractions including Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Buffalo Bill’s Grave, the Colorado Railroad Museum, and the casino gambling in Black Hawk and Central City.

You can also get around downtown Golden using the Ore Cart Free Transit Service . 

Golden has never forgotten its Western roots and history.  Spanning main street is Golden’s famous 58-foot long Welcome Arch, which has been saying “Howdy Folks!” to visitors since 1949.   Golden was Colorado’s first capital city and today is filled with historic buildings, museums and events that bring the colorful era of the Old West back to life.

Here are some itineraries:

• Meet the West’s most famous scout and showman at Buffalo Bill’s Grave & Museum .
• Ride an authentic steam locomotive at the Colorado Railroad Museum .
• See the actual clothes worn by the first Americans to summit Mount Everest at the Bradford Washburn  American Mountaineering Museum .
• Walk back in time on the 1.5 mile-long Triceratops Trail and see 100 million year old footprints of a Tyrannosaurus rex .
• Follow the history of beer brewing in Colorado on a free tour at the world’s largest brewery, Coors .

Golden loves families and is filled with activities for kids.

• Learn how to pan for gold and identify gems and minerals at the Mines Museum of Earth Science.
• Climb indoors at Movement Golden , Colorado’s premier indoor rock climbing and bouldering gym with 300 roped routes up 45-foot high walls.
• Walk the level trail along Clear Creek , crossing bridges back and forth over the rushing river.
• Enjoy the parades during Buffalo Bill Days in July or the December Holiday parades .
• Feed the chickens at an old 1880's riverside farm and homestead at the Golden History Park .

Outdoor Recreation

Golden is the closest “mountain town” to Denver, and as such it has developed into an outdoor recreation paradise with all Colorado forms of recreation available nearby.  Here are some suggested itineraries.

• Pedal up Lookout Mountain , perhaps the most iconic bicycle hill climb in the state, featured twice in the USA Pro Challenge with the world’s top cyclists.
• Snowshoe past old barns at a 19 th  Century farmstead in Walker Ranch
• Hike or bike the five mile trail that circles  North Table Mountain , and stop at  New Terrain Brewing Co.  (located right off the trail) for a victory beer.
• Kayak or raft down Clear Creek through a series of a dozen man-made water chutes.
• Horseback ride through stands of aspens at nearby  Golden Gate Canyon State Park .
• Rock climb in Clear Creek Canyon, one of the best rock climbing centers on the Front Range.

Maps & Guides

Maps and Guides | Golden Travel Guide | Visit Golden

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Digital Visitors Guide

Digital Golden Visitor's Guide | Golden Travel Guide | Visit Golden

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Golden Visitors Center - Visit Golden

Getting Here & Around

Traveling to Golden? | Transportation Services | Visit Golden

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Legendary Safari Experiences

Wildlife biologist-planning & unparalleled guiding.

A trip to Africa can often overwhelm the senses, much like the number of safari operators available to consumers today can make travel planning an overwhelming decision. That’s where The Wild Source comes in.

Extraordinarily Unconventional Safari Experiences

World class guiding.

As a tour operator founded by safari guides, we know the experience, knowledge, and passion of your guide is the backbone of the entire safari experience Learn More

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Our founder Bill’s biology background informs our planning decisions. Meanwhile, our Tanzanian biologists are actively conducting field research in the Serengeti. Learn More

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Our planning team has the personal “boots on the ground” experience and deep knowledge of wildlife destinations to plan the best safari tailored to your interests. Learn More

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Go On Your Adventure of a Lifetime!

With an international team that works and lives in the USA, Kenya, Tanzania, and Botswana, our relationships spanning two continents make The Wild Source uniquely positioned to design and deliver the safari of your dreams.

We provide the convenience of a fully staffed safari planning and operations office in Colorado, but the quality assurance of our own elite guides, safari vehicles, and operations teams on the ground in Africa.  Learn more about our team by clicking here.

Colorado, USA

Arusha, Tanzania

Winnie Ladislaus

Johnson "Ping” Nkukuu

Masai Mara, Kenya

Fadhil Magoye

Annie Garner

Yusuf Magoye

Mariam Mrutu

Joshua Kumbi

Makao, Tanzania

Sarah Shonko

Emily Hancock

Ron Thompson

Brooke Mitchell-Norman

Henry Akeyo

Peter Kiyaa

George Mbwambo

Kelly McBride

David Maira

Diesel Tsosha

Okavango Delta, Botswana

Featured Destinations

THE GREAT MIGRATION AND MORE

Home of the world-famous Serengeti National Park and the Great Migration.

LAND OF CHARISMATIC PREDATORS

The original safari country, with some of Africa’s best wildlife in the Masai Mara.

REMOTE AND EXCLUSIVE

Untamed, remote wilderness and the unique wonders of the Okavango Delta. 

Featured Itineraries

Epic Mara: Big Cats in Focus

This safari is designed with serious photographers and/or wildlife aficionados in mind. We combine all the essential elements for remarkable wildlife viewing and photographic opportunities. The location is the renowned Masai Mara, unsurpassed for prolific wildlife viewing. The guiding is on the legendary level, utilizing one of our 3 Kenyan guide team who are recognized among the most accomplished in Africa.

Rwanda 4-Day Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda can be added on to any other safari.

Primates of Uganda

Experience up-close viewing of chimpanzees and mountain gorillas.

Quintessential Tanzania: River Crossing Season

With the Great Migration of nearly 2 million animals in the area, the Northern Serengeti is the stage for one of nature's most famed events - the dramatic migration crossings of the Mara River.

Botswana Desert and Delta Safari: Outstanding Value, Top Wildlife and Diverse Landscapes

This safari is customized to take advantage of the best opportunities for the green season in Botswana to observe diverse wildlife.

Ultimate East Africa: Exceptional Guiding in Northern Tanzania and the Masai Mara

This incredible itinerary features East Africa's top guides on a private safari through Tanzania and Kenya.

The Latest from Our Africa Safari Blog

Winter Birding in South Africa

Winter birding in South Africa is fantastic, with a wide variety of unique and colorful birds, many of which stay in South Africa year-round. Here are some of the birding hotspots that our Operations Specialist Judy enjoyed in June (Winter) within South Africa.

Wild Cats of Chile: A Puma Tracking Adventure (Small Group Trip 2025)

Explore Patagonia, the premiere wild puma destination, with a small group. In the Patagonia region of Chile there is a large population that has become visible. Hunting was banned here and the puma found sanctuary in the stunning Torres del Paine National Park. Over generations, sightings increased until reaching a point of becoming very reliable. There can be no guarantee of finding such wide-ranging and elusive cats, but a small handful of expert trackers have mastered the craft and are now finding puma almost daily.

Bushman’s Botswana

Return to the origins of humanity as you head deep into the heart of Botswana and the world-famous Okavango Delta and Kalahari Desert. Experience the Old Way of the Bushmen - the indigenous people of southern Africa.

Okavango Origins – Painted Dog Focus – Botswana Group Trip 2024

This one-of-a-kind small group safari features an exceptional Bushman Guide team from The Wild Source, as you visit an iconic location where African wild dogs have been featured in 2023 films by BBC (Planet Earth 3) and Disney Nature (Animals Up Close). We utilize an authentic mobile camp, the ultimate for safari purists. Here the experience is in dining under the stars while sharing stories around the fire, learning of Bushman culture through the oral tradition, and being connected to the bush and wildlife at all times. You will have a nice level of comfort but never forget your special surrounds!

Featured Group Trip

Realm of the jaguar and ocelot research – 2024 pantanal group trip, august 23 - september 4, 2024.

Jaguars have become a magnet for tourism. They are certainly the focal point of this expedition but the thriving jaguar population is also an indicator of the health of this natural system. Many of the species in Brazil’s Pantanal are charismatic, colorful, and/or simply fascinating. There is no doubt this is one of the world’s premier wildlife-watching destinations. This safari is led by The Wild Source’s Brooke Mitchell , along with our in-country Brazilian guide experts. The combination of exploring The Pantanal’s waterways by private chartered boat, with a prime land-based area in the wild southern Pantanal, delivers a remarkable wildlife experience.

 The Pantanal, the largest continuous wetland on the planet, was declared a World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO and is South America’s primary wildlife sanctuary. With a total area of approximately 150,000 km² and located in the center of the continent, the Pantanal is a biogeographic mixing bowl containing elements of the Amazon Forest, the Caatinga, the Brazilian Savannah, the Atlantic Rainforest and the Paraguayan Chaco. It was formed between 2 and 5 million years ago as a large sedimentary basin and is now an isolated flatland surrounded by several mountainous areas. Biodiversity in the Pantanal includes 656 birds species, 135 mammals, 260 fish species and 50 reptiles. There are excellent populations of caiman, capybara, jaguar, armadillo, giant otters, coati, giant anteater and much more.

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Adventure with a Purpose

The Wild Source was recommended by Fortune magazine.

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Top 10 Tour Operator

The Wild Source was named one of Fodor's  Top 10 Tour Operators  in Fodor's Travel  Complete Guide to African Safaris .

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Locally Owned Safari Camps

Read about The Wild Source's involvement with change-making outposts across the continent that are pioneering a new generation of local ownership in the safari industry.

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Read about The Wild Source difference on Forbes.com. Traveling with us supports local ownership and disruptive empowerment.

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