Latakia
Syria’s main port and the heart of the coast. Rocky coves, pine forests and the mildest weather in the country — what to do in Latakia, and when to go.
- Founded
- 4th century BC
- Best season
- June and September
The door to the Mediterranean. The country’s largest port is here, and after the dry heat inland the city reminds you that there is another Syria: humid, green, turned towards the sea.
In the city
The corniche along the shore is made for a walk in the late afternoon. The Roman columns in the centre date from the years when the city went by the name Laodicea.
Around it
North are the pine forests of Kessab. South is Ugarit, the mound where some of the earliest examples of the alphabet were found. Both are within a day.
When to go
The swimming season runs from May to October. July and August are humid and crowded; June and September strike the better balance.
Highlights
- The seafront corniche
- The mound at Ugarit
- The pine forests of Kessab
- The Roman columns
Where to stay
The centre and the corniche are the practical choice: the sea is within walking distance and the coach station and intercity road are close. In summer the coast fills up and prices rise; if you are coming in July or August it pays to arrange a room in advance. Staying in the mountain villages or around Kessab is cooler in summer but needs a car — factor in the trips down to the city and back.
