Location & Transportation
The cruise port is about a 10-minute drive from the city center. Taxis are readily available here, and if you have a short stay in Latakia, it’s a simple ride to get you exploring the local attractions.
Sightseeing
Latakia pulses with layers of history dating back to the 3rd century BC. As you wander through the city you’ll notice remnants from various eras including the Phoenicians, Romans, Byzantines, Crusaders, Arabs, and Turks. Some points of interest include:
- The old Ottoman khan, now a museum that once served as the governor’s residence during the French mandate. Here, you can admire pottery, glassware, clay tablets from nearby Ugarit, and even contemporary paintings.
- The Roman gateway known as the Tetraporticus, a striking monument featuring four impressive columns.
- Relaxing visits to the coastline, where local beaches offer a pleasant change of pace.
Tours & Excursions
Latakia is a great starting point for excursions to historic sites further afield. If you have time on your shore excursion, consider these options:
- Aleppo: Approximately 186 km away, explore its famous Citadel and a bustling traditional souk. Aleppo on Wikipedia
- Crac des Chevaliers: Visit this UNESCO-listed medieval castle—a true marvel of the Middle Ages. Crac des Chevaliers on UNESCO
- Saladin Castle (Soane Castle): About 55 km from Latakia, this castle sits atop a rocky mountain offering stunning views of the surrounding green forests.
These excursions are often arranged by local tour operators to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
It‘s a good idea to compare shore excursion costs between what your cruise line offers and options like Viator and GetYourGuide. They often provide lower prices and include customer reviews and ratings to help you choose the best option. They may also offer more more flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies than those available through your cruise line. However, while booking independently might give you more variety and potentially better rates, be mindful of your schedule - cruise line excursions are typically coordinated to match your ship‘s schedule with guaranteed pick-up and drop-off times.
There is also a great resource for finding local guides at Tours by Locals. Tours by Locals connects you with local guides who can help you plan a private personal tour, guide you, and get you back to your ship on time. You can also check out Rome2Rio for local transportation options. It is a great resource for finding how to get from one place to another, including public transportation, taxis, ferries, and more.
Shopping
When in Latakia, you can find unique local products that make excellent souvenirs. Consider picking up:
- Silk brocade, brass and silver inlays, and mosaics adorned with mother of pearl.
- Hand-woven rugs and beautifully hand-blown glass items.
- Traditional Syrian sweets and artistic souvenirs such as pictures of epic and folk heroes painted on glass or cloth.
Dining
Latakia’s cuisine is a delicious blend of flavors. Be sure to try:
- Freshly made Syrian salads like diced tabbouleh and fattoush.
- The ever-popular baba ghanoush, a smooth eggplant spread.
- An assortment of meze—small, appetizing dishes served before the main course, offering a taste of the region’s rich culinary heritage.
Culture & Local Events
Latakia’s cultural scene reflects its diverse history and modern-day vibrancy. Here’s what you should know before exploring:
- Currency & Payment: The local currency is the Syrian Pound (SYP). Credit card acceptance can be limited in smaller establishments, so it’s wise to carry some local cash.
- Communication: While modern telephone and DSL services are available, it’s best to check with your hotel for current connectivity options.
- Opening Hours: Shops generally open daily from 09:00 until 20:00, though some may close on Fridays or Sundays. Banks operate from Saturday to Thursday between 09:00 and 14:30, and many museums and historical sites are closed on Wednesdays.
- Public Holidays: Following the fall of the Assad regime, a 2025 presidential decree overhauled the country’s official holidays. Key dates now include January 1 (New Year’s Day), March 18 (Syrian Revolution Day), April 17 (Independence Day), May 1 (May Day), August 1 (Army Day), December 8 (Liberation Day, marking the fall of the Assad regime), and December 25 (Christmas Day). Several older holidays—including March 8 Revolution Day, Martyrs’ Day, and the October Liberation War—have been dropped. In addition, movable celebrations such as Catholic/Orthodox Easter and various Muslim holidays based on the Hegira calendar are observed.
- Safety: Contrary to some media portrayals, my experience and local insight confirm that Latakia is very safe for travelers. Urban crime is rare, and the relaxed atmosphere ensures that even solo explorers feel comfortable.