Car Rental Syria 2026: Complete Guide for Italian Travelers
The complete 2026 guide for Italian travelers renting a car in Syria — required documents, ShomoX fleet options, prices from $40/day, pickup locations, and must-see destinations.
Why Rent a Car in Syria?
For Italian travellers who love culture, history, and authentic experiences, Syria is a destination unlike any other. The country holds some of the world's most impressive ancient sites — Roman amphitheatres, Crusader castles, Umayyad mosques, and medieval souqs — and the best way to explore them on your own timeline is with a rental car in Syria.
ShomoX offers a modern fleet with transparent pricing, door-to-door delivery, and 24/7 support in both English and Arabic.
Documents Required
To hire a car in Syria, Italian travellers will need:
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months remaining validity)
- International Driving Permit (IDP) — recommended alongside your Italian driving licence
- Credit card or cash for the security deposit
- Minimum age: 21 years
Our Fleet
ShomoX maintains a diverse, well-serviced fleet:
| Category | Models | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Economy | Hyundai Elantra, Kia Rio | City exploration in Damascus & Aleppo |
| Family SUV | Kia Seltos, Mitsubishi Outlander | Coastal & mountain routes |
| Luxury | Mercedes-Benz, GMC Denali | Business trips & VIP comfort |
Child seats and GPS units are available on request.
Pickup Locations
- Damascus International Airport — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- Damascus city centre (Mezzeh district)
- Aleppo, Latakia, Homs, Hama — on request
We offer free hotel delivery anywhere in Damascus — your car will be at your hotel when you check in.
Rental Prices
Rates start from USD 40 per day for economy vehicles, including basic insurance and unlimited mileage. No hidden costs.
Syria's Must-See Destinations by Car
Damascus Old City — 10,000 Years of History
The UNESCO-listed Old City of Damascus is one of the world's greatest historic centres. Walk the lanes lined with jasmine, visit the breathtaking Umayyad Mosque, discover the intricately carved Azm Palace, and lose yourself in the Al-Hamidiyya Souq. The atmosphere here — where Byzantine, Roman, and Islamic layers overlap — is unlike anywhere else in the world.
Bosra — The World's Best-Preserved Roman Theatre
Just 140 km from Damascus, Bosra contains a remarkably well-preserved Roman amphitheatre embedded within a black basalt Arab fortress. Italian visitors will feel right at home recognising the Roman architectural heritage. An ideal half-day trip.
Palmyra (Tadmor) — Roman Ruins in the Desert
About 3 hours from Damascus, Palmyra is Syria's most dramatic archaeological site. The Great Colonnade, the Arch of Triumph, and the Temple of Bel rise surreally from the desert. Visit at sunrise or sunset for unforgettable photographs.
Krak des Chevaliers — The Greatest Crusader Castle
Considered the finest preserved Crusader castle in the world, Krak des Chevaliers sits on a mountain ridge in western Syria. The views over the Orontes valley are spectacular, and the medieval fortifications are impressively intact.
Latakia & the Mediterranean Coast
Syria's coast offers beautiful beaches, fresh seafood, and a Mediterranean atmosphere that Italian travellers will find familiar. From Latakia, you can also visit the nearby Qalaat Saladin (Saladin's Castle), another UNESCO-listed fortress.
Aleppo — The Ancient Silk Road Capital
Aleppo was one of the great trading cities of the ancient world. Its Citadel, the UNESCO-listed covered souqs, and the cosmopolitan Jdeideh quarter make it a fascinating city to explore. Approximately 4 hours from Damascus.
Driving in Syria: Practical Tips
- Fill up before long desert drives — petrol stations are scarce between major cities
- Keep your passport and rental documents accessible at all times
- Peak traffic in Damascus: 8:00–10:00 and 16:00–19:00
- Main roads between cities are generally in good condition
- Road signs are in Arabic and often in English too
Insurance
All rentals include third-party liability insurance. Comprehensive coverage (all risks) is available for a small daily fee. 24/7 roadside assistance is included.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Italian citizens need a visa for Syria? Yes — apply in advance through the Syrian embassy in Rome. Processing times vary; apply well before your departure date.
Can I extend my rental while in Syria? Yes, subject to vehicle availability. Contact our team as early as possible.
Can I pay in Euros? We accept USD and Syrian Pounds. We do not currently accept Euros directly, but currency exchange is widely available in Damascus.
Book Your Syrian Road Trip Today
Reserve your car at ShomoX.com — choose your dates, select your vehicle, and we will handle the rest. Our team is available 24/7 and speaks English and Arabic.