Getting Around Syria: Buses, Serveece, Taxis and Cars With or Without a Driver
Getting around Syria: Pullman buses, serveece and taxis, distances between cities, and when a rental car or a car with a driver is best.
Syria is a fairly small country and the distances between its main cities are short. But the right way of getting around can change the whole trip. Here is a quick guide.
Between cities
Pullman buses
Private bus companies link Damascus with Homs, Hama, Aleppo, Latakia, Tartus and other cities. The buses are air-conditioned and cheap, and you book at the company's office in the departure station. Carry your passport — it may be asked for when booking.
Microbuses (serveece)
Small buses that leave when they are full: cheaper, slower, and they reach small villages. Good if your time is open and you enjoy the local experience.
Taxis between cities
You can agree a fixed price with a taxi driver for a trip between two cities. Agree the full price before you set off.
In town
- Yellow taxis are everywhere. Agree the fare before getting in if the meter isn't used.
- Serveece minibuses run fixed routes inside cities for a small fare.
- Walking is best inside the old cities of Damascus and Aleppo.
Approximate distances
- Damascus – Homs
- About 160 km, 2 hours
- Damascus – Aleppo
- About 350 km, 4–5 hours
- Damascus – Latakia
- About 350 km, 3.5–4 hours
- Homs – Palmyra
- About 160 km, 2 hours
- Damascus – Bosra
- About 140 km, 2 hours
- Damascus – Maaloula
- About 60 km, 1 hour
When to choose a car
Buses are fine between the big cities. But much of the best of Syria is not in the cities: Krak des Chevaliers, Apamea, the coastal and mountain villages, Palmyra. There a car makes everything easier:
- A car with a driver: the most comfortable option for most visitors. The driver knows the roads and the places, and you don't worry about driving, parking or mountain roads.
- Self-drive: complete freedom, but you need a valid licence (an international permit if you are not Syrian) and to accept a lively local driving style.
Collect your car at the airport when you land, or have it delivered to your hotel. On Bytnaa you see the full daily price before booking, you pay the office at pick-up, and cancellation is free until 24 hours before.
See also our week in Syria itinerary.
Plan the trip on Bytnaa
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