Latakia Travel Guide

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Nestled along the stunning Mediterranean coastline, the city of Latakia offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Located in the Latakia region of Syria, this vibrant city is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Middle Eastern experience.

Latakia boasts a rich history that dates back centuries, with traces of ancient civilizations evident throughout the city. Explore the ruins of Ugarit, an ancient port city that was once a thriving cultural hub. Marvel at the ancient artifacts and learn about the city's fascinating past at the Ugarit Museum. For history enthusiasts, a visit to the Citadel of Saladin is a must. This imposing fortress offers panoramic views of the city and provides a glimpse into the region's tumultuous history.

Beyond its historical sites, Latakia is also known for its pristine beaches. With its crystal-clear waters and golden sands, it is a paradise for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts. Spend a day lounging on the beach, taking in the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, or dive into its depths to discover the vibrant underwater world.

For those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture, a visit to the bustling Al-Haffah Souq is a must. This vibrant market is a treasure trove of traditional crafts, spices, and textiles. Lose yourself in the narrow alleys, haggling with friendly vendors, and sampling local delicacies.

No trip to Latakia is complete without indulging in its delectable cuisine. Sample mouthwatering dishes such as kebabs, falafel, and the famous Latakia-style seafood. From street food stalls to upscale restaurants, there is something to satisfy every palate.

As the sun sets over the city, immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife of Latakia. Explore the lively cafes and bars, where locals and tourists gather to unwind and enjoy live music and entertainment.

Local name: اللاذقية Population: 340.2 thous. (2019)Area: 22.39 mi²Elevation: 75 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 35°31'31"N, 35°46'35"E

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LattakiaSyria

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Latakia Top Attractions

Latakia Attractions - What to See and Explore

Latakia offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: National Museum of Latakia, Ugarit, Minet el-Beida, National Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Latakia. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Museum • Archaeological museum
National Museum of Latakia
Nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean coastal city of Latakia, Syria, the National Museum of Latakia offers a captivating glimpse into the ancient and rich cultural heritage of the region. Housed in a grand building that was once a palace during the French Mandate...
City • Archaeological site
Ugarit
Ugarit was an ancient port city in northern Syria, in the outskirts of modern Latakia, discovered by accident in 1928 together with the Ugaritic texts. Its ruins are often called Ras Shamra after the headland where they lie.
Archaeological site
Minet el-Beida
Minet el-Beida is a small bay located 10 kilometers north of Latakia, Syria on the Mediterranean Sea. It is an important archaeological site because it served as the harbor town and necropolis for Ugarit.

Church
National Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Latakia
The National Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Latakia is a church in Latakia, Syria. It is a member of the Synod of Syria and Lebanon, and with a capacity of around 400, it is one of the biggest churches in Latakia, having approximately 1000 members.
Archaeological site
Ras Ibn Hani
Ras Ibn Hani is a small cape located 8 kilometers north of Latakia, Syria on the Mediterranean Sea. It is an important archaeological site as it was occupied almost continuously from the late Bronze Age until Byzantine times. The site now is in a major resort area called the Cote d'Azur of Syria.
Harbor
Port of Latakia
The Port of Latakia is a seaport located on the Mediterranean sea in the city of Latakia. Established on 12 February 1950, it has since served as Syria's main seaport.
35°30'50"N • 35°46'56"E
Latakia Tetraporticus
The Latakia Tetraporticus, also sometimes referred to as the Triumphal Arch of Septimius Severus is a triumphal arch located in modern-day Latakia in the south-east region of the city, in the Port Said street believed to be built in honour of the Roman emperor Septimius Severus, and its date of construction is around 183.
35°36'6"N • 35°46'60"E
Ugaritic alphabet
The Ugaritic writing system is a cuneiform abjad used from around either the fifteenth century BCE or 1300 BCE for Ugaritic, an extinct Northwest Semitic language, and discovered in Ugarit, Syria, in 1928. It has 30 letters.
Library • Universities and schools
Tishreen University
Tishreen University, is a public university located in Latakia, Syria. It is the third-largest university in Syria. It was established on 20 May 1971 as the University of Latakia before the name was turned to commemorate October War.

Things to See and Do in Latakia by Category

Sights, interesting and unusual places and attractions valued by most tourists. See the list of places to visit in Latakia.

Active

Al-Assad Stadium
Latakia
Sport venueSportArenas and stadiums
Latakia Sports City Stadium
Latakia
Sport venueSportArenas and stadiums
Latakia Sports City
Latakia
Sport venueSport
Bassel al-Assad Stadium
Latakia
Sport venueSportArenas and stadiums
Hama Municipal Stadium
Latakia
Sport venueSportArenas and stadiums

Day trips

Latakia – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Latakia, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Sahyun Castle, Apamea (Apamea), Masyaf Castle.

16 milesE
Forts and castles,
Sahyun Castle
Sahyun Castle, also known as Saladin Castle or Saone, is a historic fortress that stands as a testament to medieval military architecture in Syria. Perched atop a strategic ridge in the mountainous region near Latakia, the castle was originally built by the Byzantines...
36 milesE
Ruins, Archaeological site, Ancient Greek architecture
Apamea, Apamea
The Roman Theatre at Apamea is a Roman theatre in ancient Apamea in northwestern Syria. Originally a Hellenistic theatre, the monumental structure was one of the largest theatres in the Roman world.
45 milesSE
Forts and castles
Masyaf Castle
Masyaf Castle, an imposing medieval fortress, stands as a sentinel over the Syrian landscape. Located in the Hama Governorate, this castle is entrenched in history, dating back to the 11th century. It became renowned as the stronghold of the Nizari Ismaili sect, also...
41 milesE
City, Archaeological site
Serjilla
Serjilla is one of the best preserved of the Dead Cities in northwestern Syria, containing about 700 sites. It is located in the Jebel Riha, approximately 65 km north from Hama and 80 km southwest from Aleppo, very close to ruins of another "Dead City", Bara.
48 milesS
Archaeological site
Amrit
Amrit, the classical Marathus, was a Phoenician port located near present-day Tartus in Syria. Founded in the third millennium BC, Marat was the northernmost important city of ancient Phoenicia and a rival of nearby Arwad.