Aleppo Layover Guide (ALP)

What are you looking for in ALP?
Tours/To do | Relax/Sleep | Internet/SIM | Transport | Storage | Money

Aleppo Airport (ALP) is an international airport located in Aleppo, Syria. It’s situated about 7 km (4.3 miles) from the city center. The airport officially opened in 1960. Aleppo is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, rich in culture and history. It’s known for its ancient architecture, vibrant souks, and traditional cuisine, offering visitors a unique blend of historical charm and Middle Eastern hospitality.

Can you leave Aleppo Airport (ALP) airport during a layover? Do you need a visa?
Transit passengers at Aleppo Airport cannot leave the terminal without a valid Syrian visa. Most nationalities may obtain a visa on arrival or e-visa, but certain travellers (e.g. Lebanese, Iranian) require visas issued in advance; Israeli citizens are barred. Apply via Syrian embassies or consulates. Always check entry requirements beforehand. (more info)

Tours, Things to do, Sightseeing

Layover Guide Organized Tours

Layover Guide Things to do / Sightseeing

• Citadel of Aleppo Dominating Aleppo skyline, the medieval Citadel offers panoramic vistas, fortified walls, and archaeological insight into millennia of history. A must-see cultural treasure restored to former glory, offering unique photographic opportunities. (Time required: 2 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi ~30 min or airport shuttle to city center then 10 min walk.)
• Al-Madina Souq Labyrinthine alleys of Aleppo’s historic souk brim with spices, textiles, crafts, and vibrant life. Explore traditional shops, barter with merchants, and savor authentic street snacks in this ancient trading hub. (Time required: 1.5 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi ~30 min or bus line to city center then 5 min walk.)
• Great Mosque of Aleppo One of the oldest mosques in the region, the Umayyad-era Great Mosque features elegant courtyards, ornate columns, and serene atmosphere. Its historic minaret and restored prayer halls reflect Islamic architecture. (Time required: 45 minutes. / Airport to here: Taxi ~30 min or bus to city center plus 5 min walk.)
• Al-Sultaniyah Caravanserai Built in the 16th century, Al-Sultaniyah Caravanserai served Silk Road travelers with stone courtyards, arched chambers, shaded recesses. Today it hosts cultural events and exhibits local crafts amid historic charm. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: Taxi ~30 min or bus to city center then 5 min walk.)
• Traditional Hammam Step into a centuries-old hammam, where tiled chambers and steamy halls offer rejuvenating baths, scrubs, and massages. Experience Ottoman spa rituals passed down through generations in a tranquil, fragrant setting. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: Taxi ~25 min or bus to city center then 5 min walk.)
• Aleppo National Museum Discover diverse artifacts spanning Paleolithic tools, Byzantine mosaics, and Islamic ceramics at the Aleppo National Museum. Remarkable exhibits narrate Syria’s rich heritage, from ancient civilizations to Ottoman influences across millennia. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: Taxi ~35 min.)
• Al-Jdayde Quarter Nestled in the historic Christian quarter, Al-Jdayde’s narrow lanes reveal mansions, artisan workshops, and hidden churches. Wander pastel-colored streets to uncover centuries-old frescoes and vibrant community life around every corner. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: Taxi ~30 min or bus to city center then 5 min walk.)
• Baron Hotel Rooftop Head to the iconic Baron Hotel’s rooftop terrace for panoramic views over Aleppo’s skyline. Enjoy a refreshing drink or snack while admiring the ancient Citadel illuminated against the evening sky. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: Taxi ~30 min.)

Things to Do in Aleppo Airport (ALP)

Relaxing and Sleeping

Airport Lounges and Relaxing
Aleppo International Airport offers basic seating areas with minimal amenities. There is no dedicated airline lounge, though business-class passengers can arrange access via third-party services. A small café in the main hall provides coffee and snacks, and a few quieter corners allow passengers to relax before departure, though seating is limited during peak times. » view all lounges or buy a lounge pass or membership online

Hotel and Sleeping
Within 10 km of the airport, several hotels cater to transit passengers, from mid-range options like the Aleppo International Hotel to budget guesthouses in nearby neighborhoods. Most offer airport shuttles, free Wi-Fi, and 24-hour front desks. Reservations are recommended, especially during local events or high travel seasons, to ensure availability and preferred rates. view all or book an airport hotel online

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Rest Area and Sleeping in Airport
The terminal features standard bench seating and unallocated chairs but no dedicated rest zones or sleep pods. Overnight stays are permitted, though comfort is basic. Power outlets are scarce, so travelers often rely on portable chargers. The quietest areas tend to be near Gates 2 and 3 after midnight, with reduced foot traffic for a more restful experience.

WIFI/Internet and SIM Card

WIFI/Internet: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal via the network “Aleppo Airport Free Wi-Fi,” offering limited bandwidth and requiring SMS-based login with a local or international number. Speeds are modest—suitable for messaging and light browsing. For heavier data needs, consider purchasing a local SIM or using hotel internet services upon arrival.

SIM/eSIM Card: Upon arrival, travelers can purchase prepaid SIM cards from Syriatel and MTN counters in the arrivals hall. Packages include data, local calls, and SMS bundles at competitive rates. Official identification is required for registration. eSIM options may be arranged online before travel but can be subject to regional activation restrictions and pricing differences. » buy a global esim card for Layover Guide, that you can use for other countries as well!

Transportation to/from airport

Taxi: A regulated taxi rank directly outside the terminal provides metered and fixed-rate services to central Aleppo, costing roughly US $10–15. Licensed taxis display airport insignia; passengers should avoid unlicensed drivers. For guaranteed service and transparent pricing, book through the airport desk or arrange transfers via your hotel in advance.

Train: There is no direct rail link to the airport. The nearest station is Aleppo Central Station, about 20 km away, offering connections to Damascus, Hama, and other destinations. Travelers can take a taxi or shuttle bus to reach the station. (more info)

Bus: Public buses operated by the local transport authority connect the airport to central Aleppo on limited schedules, typically aligning with peak flights. Fares are very low. Bus stops are located outside the arrivals terminal, but service frequency can be irregular—check timings in advance or consider alternative transport if on a tight schedule. (more info)

Shuttle: Several hotels and private operators offer shared or dedicated shuttle services between the airport and major city hotels. Schedules and rates vary; bookings can be made online or via hotel front desks. Shuttles generally run from early morning until late evening; 24-hour service often requires advance reservation and may incur additional fees.

Car rentals: International and local car rental agencies, including Avis and Europcar, maintain desks in the arrivals hall. Drivers must present a valid international license and passport. Rental rates start around US $30 per day, excluding insurance. Vehicle options range from compact hatchbacks to SUVs, and pre-booking is recommended to guarantee availability. view available cars or rent a car now online

Parking: The airport provides uncovered short-term and long-term parking lots adjacent to the terminal. The first 30 minutes are complimentary; thereafter, charges apply by the hour or day. Parking areas are monitored by security cameras. Payment is made at automated kiosks before exiting, accepting both cash and major credit cards.

Luggage Storage & Lockers

There are no official luggage lockers within the terminal. Instead, a private baggage storage and wrapping service operates in the arrivals area on a 24/7 basis. Rates start at the local equivalent of US $5 per item per hour, with maximum daily charges. No advance booking is required—just drop off and pick up as needed. » book a luggage storage or locker at online (subject to availability).

Money Exchange and Withdrawal

- Aleppo Airport (ALP) ATMs, currency exchanges and banks