Getting around Syria is genuinely possible but requires flexibility. The road network is mostly intact between the main cities, and shared taxis and minibuses have resumed running on major routes. The Damascus–Homs–Hama–Aleppo corridor, the country's main spine, is the most straightforward to travel.
Buses and shared taxis
Intercity buses operate between Damascus, Homs, Hama, and Aleppo. Shared taxis (service taxis) are faster and more flexible, departing when full from fixed points in each city. They're the standard way Syrians travel between cities. Fares are low by any international standard.
Local minibuses within cities are cheap and comprehensive but require some Arabic or a local guide to navigate, as routes aren't obviously signed.
Trains
Train travel is not a realistic option for tourists right now. The Syrian Railways network suffered extensive damage during the war — roughly half the 2,850 km network is out of service, with rails damaged or stripped. The transitional government has listed rail rehabilitation as a priority, but this will take years.
Taxis and private hire
Private taxis are available in Damascus, Aleppo, and other cities. Agree on a price before you get in — meters are rarely used. For visiting archaeological sites outside the cities (Palmyra, the Dead Cities region, Krak des Chevaliers), hiring a private driver for the day is the most practical approach.
Roads and checkpoints
The main highways between cities are passable, but checkpoints operated by various forces remain common. Having your documents accessible and being patient and polite will get you through. Some rural areas and eastern parts of the country remain genuinely dangerous and should be avoided without serious local knowledge and contacts.
A practical note
Things change quickly in Syria right now. Routes that were open last month may have a checkpoint or a detour this month. The most useful resource is up-to-date advice from local contacts, your accommodation, or specialist tour operators running trips there.