Trip to Tartus

Go to the hotel in Tartus to check in and spend a pleasant evening on the Tartus seaside promenade overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, followed by dinner at one of the restaurants.

Next morning: a historic tour of Tartus.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel, then set out to explore the coastal gem, the Castle of Tartus: the castle is located in Old Tartus and dates back to the medieval period. It was occupied by the Byzantines in the 10th century, then taken by the Crusaders, and later liberated by Saladin and the Mamluks. It is not just a castle but a journey through time.

Wander the alleys of the old city and soak in the historic atmosphere. Do not miss the Cathedral of Tartus (also known as Our Lady’s Cathedral), an architectural masterpiece from the Crusader era that has now been turned into an archaeological museum displaying valuable artifacts from various periods.

Afternoon: Arwad Island and onward to Latakia.
Arwad Island: head to Tartus port and board a traditional wooden boat for a short sea trip (about 3 km) to Arwad Island. This is the only inhabited Syrian island, and you will feel as if you have entered a completely different world. You can stroll through its narrow alleys, visit its small castle, and watch workshops that still practice the traditional wooden boat‑building craft.

Then continue to Latakia and visit Saladin’s Castle. Stop to see one of Syria’s and the world’s most important landmarks, Saladin’s Castle (located before reaching Latakia). It is an imposing historic fortress built by the Crusaders and liberated by the leader Saladin, and it is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Lunch on the road from Tartus to Latakia, then proceed to Latakia.