Tartus
Tartus, one of the eastern Mediterranean's oldest port cities, layers Phoenician, Roman and Crusader history with a relaxed seaside promenade, bustling markets and easy access to Syria's coast.
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About Tartus
Tartus is a Mediterranean port city in western Syria and the capital of Tartus Governorate, sitting between the sea and the coastal mountains. Known in Crusader times as Tortosa, it remains one of Syria's main coastal centres, with a relaxed seaside atmosphere shaped by fishing, trade and maritime life.
Its layered history is visible in the old city, where narrow stone lanes lead to the fortified Cathedral of Our Lady of Tortosa, a 12th-century Crusader church now housing a museum. Just offshore, Arwad Island is Syria's only inhabited island, with ancient walls, a citadel and traditional stone houses, while the Phoenician site of Amrit lies a short drive south.
The corniche is the social heart of the city, lined with cafés, seafood restaurants and views over the harbour. The port district connects Tartus to regional trade, while nearby beaches, citrus groves and mountain villages offer easy excursions.
As a port and commercial hub, Tartus supports shipping, logistics, local industry and services. For travellers, it offers a quieter coastal counterpoint to Damascus and Aleppo, combining Mediterranean history, seafood culture and practical access to the wider Syrian coast.
Tartus Travel Guide
Best Time to Visit
Spring and autumn offer mild Mediterranean weather ideal for walking the corniche and visiting Arwad Island and Amrit. Summers are hot and humid, while winters are mild and wetter.
How to Get Around
Tartus is compact and easy to explore on foot around the old city and corniche. Taxis and local minibuses cover the rest of the city, boats connect the port to Arwad Island, and rental cars or private transfers are useful for trips to Amrit and coastal villages.
Where to Stay
The corniche and waterfront area are convenient for sea views, cafés and restaurants, while the old city offers a more traditional atmosphere. Most accommodation is concentrated near the centre and the port.
Food & Drink
Seafood is the local highlight, with grilled fish, mezze and fresh juices served along the corniche and near the port. Local dishes such as kibbeh, hummus and fattoush are widely available in restaurants and casual cafés.
Ground Transportation Services in Tartus
Airport Transfers
Travel between Bassel Al-Assad International Airport near Latakia and Tartus hotels, the port, business locations and other destinations along the coast.
Hourly Chauffeur
Book a private chauffeur by the hour for business meetings, sightseeing in the old city, visits to Arwad Island and Amrit, and flexible coastal travel.
Car Rental
Rent a car in Tartus for independent trips along the coast, excursions to Amrit and mountain villages, and convenient travel to nearby cities.
Bus & Group Transfers
Arrange minibuses or charter buses for groups, corporate travel, events, sightseeing tours and airport transfers in and around Tartus.
Frequently Asked Questions
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