Things to Do in Tartus
Tartus
Although there's not much to draw tourists to the town itself, Tartus is very friendly and is well located to explore many of the sites along the coast of Syria. Sit down in the old town center with a coffee and pipe and consider the nearby options - Krak de Chevaliers, Safita, Qala'at Marqab, Hosn Soleiman, Arawad and more.
Things to Do
Arwad Island
elyobo — Tue, 28/04/2009 - 10:46pm
Location:TartusPrice:Free, but 50 SYP for the ferryThere's not much out here, but the ferry to and from (25 SYP each way) gives a good view over Tartus. The most interesting area is the spot where they build their boats; at the time we went past, there were many under construction, in varying stages, and the builders were happy for us to wander around.
Hosn Soleiman
elyobo — Tue, 28/04/2009 - 10:50pm
Location:TartusPrice:FreeIt's a long way up here from Tartus, via Safita (30 SYP to Safita, 20 SYP from there to Hosn Soleiman), and the ride offers great views. Hosn Solieman itself is a tumbledown temple, dating from the early years AD. The blocks used to build the main walls are huge, larger even than those used in the construction of the Pyramids at Giza.
Krak de Chevaliers
elyobo — Tue, 28/04/2009 - 10:50pm
Location:TartusPrice:150/10 SYP full/studentThe most impressive and complete castle in Syria, Krak de Chevaliers is an incredible piece of Crusader architecture. Microbusses come from Homs for 50 SYP each. Heading on to Tartus is difficult, although you can probably negotiate something from down on the main road; a bus for three shouldn't be any more than 150 SYP to there, and should probably be much less.
Our Lady of Tortosa
elyobo — Tue, 28/04/2009 - 10:48pm
Location:TartusPrice:75/5 full/studentWe never actually made it inside, but it's interesting from the outside. At the east end there are coffee shops and nargileh, possibly some food is available too.
Qala'at Marqab
elyobo — Tue, 28/04/2009 - 10:55pm
Location:TartusPrice:150/10 SYP full/studentAnother interesting castle, with great views over the Med. Some sections are well restored, while others are still tumbled down. Make sure you explore up the steps near the main church (which is sometimes locked; ask someone to unlock it for you) and through the main keep, although a torch will definitely help.
Tartus Old City
elyobo — Tue, 28/04/2009 - 10:55pm
Location:TartusPrice:FreeThe old city isn't much of an attraction in its own right, but there's a great falafel place here and several pleasant local coffee houses, where a nargileh will cost you 50 SYP and tea or coffee 15 SYP. It's quiet and peaceful, with few cars passing through and the locals are friendly.
Walk around the outside to spot where the moat and main keep once were.