Destination · Southern coast
Tartus & Arwad
A small island, an old port town and the quiet southern coast.
Region
Southern Syrian coast
Best time
April–October
Time needed
1–2 days
From Damascus
About 3 hours by road
Why go
Island and port.
From Tartus a short boat ride takes you to Arwad, Syria’s only inhabited island, with fishermen, boat builders and narrow lanes.
Back in Tartus, the old town keeps traces of its Crusader past, and the castle of Marqab stands on a hill not far up the coast.
Highlights
- The boat to Arwad island
- The old cathedral of Tartus
- Walks through the old town
- Qalaat al-Marqab
- Fresh fish by the harbour
When to go
Best from spring to autumn.
Spring · Apr–May
Green hills and calm sea.
Summer · Jun–Aug
Hot and busy, good sea days.
Autumn · Sep–Oct
Warm and relaxed.
Winter · Nov–Mar
Rain and rough sea; boats may not run.
Getting there
Tartus is on the coast road. We drive from Damascus or Homs by private car.
Good to know
- The Arwad boat depends on the weather
- Bring cash for small boats and cafés
- Go early to Arwad for the quietest hours
- Combine with the Krak des Chevaliers
Combine with
The Krak des Chevaliers inland, or Latakia to the north.
Travel with Juzoor
Plan a journey to Tartus.
An island day, the old town and the coast. Tell us your dates.
