Latakia is Syria's premier coastal city on the Mediterranean Sea. Beautiful sandy beaches, the green mountain resort of Kasab nearby, and the ancient ruins of Ugarit — where the world's first alphabet was invented — make it a complete destination.
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Blue Beach, the Latakia Corniche, and Ras al-Bassit Beach are among the best. Coastal resorts are available on Bytnaa.
The best time to visit Latakia is summer (June–September) for beach activities, and spring/autumn for mild weather.
Yes, Latakia offers beachfront hotels and resorts along the Mediterranean coast. Browse and compare options on Bytnaa.
Latakia is approximately 350km from Damascus, about 4–5 hours by car via the Homs highway.
Stories and tips from the Syria guide to plan your visit.
PlacesGuide to the Syrian coast: Latakia's corniche, Ugarit and Saladin's Castle, Tartus and Arwad island, Jableh's Roman theatre, and the mountains of Kassab and Slunfeh.
Food & drinkA guide to drinks in Syria: Arabic coffee and bitter qahwa, tea, yerba mate, licorice, tamarind and jallab, qamar al-din in Ramadan and hot sahlab in winter.
Food & drinkHow meze works in a Syrian restaurant: hummus, mutabbal, muhammara, tabbouleh and fattoush, how to order — and the battle over the bill.
History & cultureAt Ugarit near Latakia, clay tablets preserve one of the oldest alphabets, from the 14th century BC. The discovery, and why it changed the world.
Travel tipsGetting around Syria: Pullman buses, serveece and taxis, distances between cities, and when a rental car or a car with a driver is best.
Travel tipsWhen to visit Syria: the weather season by season on the coast, in the mountains and inland, and the best months for cities, ruins and the sea.