Getting Around Syria
Buses
The state-owned Karnak bus company with its distinctive orange livery and Pullman, another large operator, connects all major towns in Syria with each other and the capital, Damascus and provide the most convenient way of exploring the country if not with your own organised transport. They also link Syria with its regional neighbours.
Taxis
Private hire taxis are widely available throughout the country’s towns and cities and are a cheap way of getting around; they rarely have (working) meters and you should always agree the price before setting off. Share taxis and minibuses connect towns and villages and leave on a when-full basis. Vehicle maintenance and driving standards are poor, with speeding common.
Car Hire
Whilst car hire is available in Syria it is not recommended.
Driving
Driving is on the right-hand side of the road.
Trains
Rail travel in Syria is possible – it is inexpensive and largely; railway stations are often a distance out of town centres. The main line connects Damascus, Aleppo, Deir ez Zur, Hassake and Qamishle with a secondary line serving Tartus and Lattakia along the Mediterranean coast.
Boats
There is no real boat travel within Syria though a ferry connects Tartus with the island of Arwad.
