Destination guide
Tartus
A relaxed coastal city with a medieval old town and boat trips to Arwad, Syria's only inhabited island.
Published stays in TartusOverview
Discover Tartus
Tartus is calmer than Latakia, with a long seafront, a fishing harbour and an old town built into the walls of a medieval citadel. The Cathedral of Our Lady of Tortosa, a 12th-century church that now houses a museum, stands close to the sea.
Small boats cross regularly to Arwad, a short ride offshore, and the hills inland lead to Safita's medieval tower and the valley below Krak des Chevaliers.
Why stay here
Reasons to stay in Tartus
An island day trip
Arwad's harbour, boatyards and fish restaurants make an easy, memorable half day.
A quieter coast
Seafront cafés and beaches with a slower pace than the bigger cities.
Hills and castles
Safita, Wadi al-Nasara and Krak des Chevaliers are all within easy reach.
Things to see
Beautiful spots to visit
Arwad Island
HeritageA compact island of lanes, boatbuilders and fish restaurants, with a small fortress and remains of ancient Phoenician sea walls.
Cathedral of Our Lady of Tortosa
HeritageA fortress-like 12th-century church built by the Crusaders, now home to a museum of finds from the region.
The old town
NeighbourhoodHomes built into the walls and towers of the old citadel beside the harbour.
Safita and Chastel Blanc
ViewsA hill town crowned by a medieval keep, with wide views to the sea on clear days.
Where to stay
Choosing your base
Every listing shows its approximate location. Compare it with the areas below before you request a booking.
Seafront and corniche
Sea views and cafés within walking distance.
Hill villages towards Safita
Cooler and greener, and best with a car.
Published stays
Compare current stays in Tartus
These are published listings, not a promise that a date is free. Open a property for its photos, capacity, amenities, and the total for your dates.
- Tartus Harbour HotelOld harbour, Tartus
- Tartus Golden Sand ChaletGolden Sand, Tartus
- Tartus Marina ApartmentMarina, Tartus
- Tartus Corniche Sea ChaletCorniche Al-Bahri, Tartus
Local flavours
Fresh fish and seafood, especially on Arwad, along with coastal mezze and citrus from nearby orchards.
Best time to visit
May to October for the sea, and spring for walks in the hills.
How long to stay
Two to three nights.