Discovering Tyre: A Half-Day Tour with English-Speaking Driver

Beirut , Lebanon

Discovering Tyre: A Half-Day Tour with English-Speaking Driver

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About this experience

Embark on a captivating journey through time and culture with our Half-Day Private Tour to Tyre, guided by an English-speaking driver. Nestled along the picturesque shores of Lebanon, Tyre is a city steeped in millennia of history, boasting a tapestry of Phoenician, Roman, and Byzantine influences. In this exclusive excursion, you'll delve into the rich heritage of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, exploring its ancient ruins, vibrant markets, and scenic coastline at your own pace. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a culture connoisseur, or simply seeking a memorable escape, our tailored tour promises an unforgettable adventure through the captivating landscapes and storied past of Tyre.

Available options

Discovering Tyre: A Half-Day Tour with English-Speaking Driver

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

English Speaking Driver

Hotel Pick up & Drop off

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Tyre is an ancient Phoenician port city and It is the home of Elissar, the Phoenician princess who founded Carthage. It was once famous across the world for its purple dye made from murex sea snails. Two main archaeological sites – “Al-Bass” and “Al-Mina” – are testimony to its historical significance. It has a wonderful seaside location and It's a popular holiday destination with excellent and cleanest beaches
The town's foundations date back to approximately 2750 BC, after which it was ruled by the Egyptians and then the famous King Hiram, under whom it prospered. Later colonized variously by the Assyrians, Neo-Babylonians, Greeks, Seleucids, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Crusaders, Mamluks and Ottomans.

Al Bass Archaeological Site is the largest and the best-preserved example of a Roman Hippodrome. The sector of Tyre El Bass, constituting the principal entrance of the town in antique times, comprises the remains of the necropolis, on either side of a wide monumental causeway dominated by a Roman triumphal arch dating from the 2nd century AD. Among the other vestiges are an aqueduct and the hippodrome of the 2nd century, one of the largest of the Roman world. site contain a Necropolis with several hundred well-preserved sarcophagi, an intact Roman road, an aqueduct and a monumental arch.

The Tyre Hippodrome is a UNESCO World Heritage site of the city of Tyre in south Lebanon dating back to the Second century A.D
The place is considered to be one of the largest and best preserved Roman hippodromes of its type in the Roman world.

Tyre used to have two harbors: the Sidonian in the north and the Egyptian harbor in the south. Today, the port of Tyre is a busy fisherman's port and the remains of a 750 meter long mole can still be seen, and it is easy to recognize the remains of some ancient buildings in the water.

The Old Souk of Tyre has plenty of little shops selling gold, copper, vegetables, fish, meat, clothing and antiques. Delicious sandwiches, foul and hummus are the most popular stops in The Old Souk.

What's not included

Lunch

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

AR EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

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Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Beirut

Beirut is the capital and largest city of Lebanon, renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning Mediterranean coastline. Known as the 'Paris of the Middle East,' it offers a unique blend of ancient ruins, modern luxury, and bustling street life.

Top Attractions

Beirut Central District

The heart of Beirut, this district is a blend of modern skyscrapers and ancient ruins, offering a glimpse into the city's rich history and vibrant present.

Historical/Architecture Half day to full day Free to moderate

National Museum of Beirut

One of the most important archaeological museums in the Middle East, showcasing artifacts from various periods of Lebanese history.

Museum 2-3 hours Moderate (around $5-$10)

Raouche Rock

A stunning natural limestone rock formation rising from the Mediterranean Sea, offering breathtaking views and a popular spot for photos.

Nature/Scenic 1-2 hours Free (unless dining at the restaurant)

Byblos

One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Byblos offers ancient ruins, a charming old souk, and a picturesque harbor.

Historical/Cultural Half day to full day Moderate (entry fees for some sites)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hummus

A creamy dip made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, often served with pita bread.

Appetizer Vegetarian, Vegan

Tabbouleh

A refreshing salad made from parsley, bulgur wheat, tomatoes, and lemon juice.

Appetizer Vegetarian, Vegan

Kibbeh

A dish made from ground meat (usually lamb or beef) mixed with bulgur and spices, often fried or baked.

Appetizer Contains meat

Kafta

Ground meat (usually lamb or beef) mixed with spices and herbs, often grilled or fried.

Main Course Contains meat

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby mountains Scuba diving and snorkeling in the Mediterranean Beach lounging at Raouche or Dbayeh Spa and wellness treatments Visiting museums and historical sites Attending local festivals and events Swimming and water sports Boat tours along the coast

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

Spring and autumn offer the best weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The temperatures are comfortable, and the city is in full bloom during these seasons.

15°C to 28°C 59°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Arabic
Widely spoken: French, English
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Lebanese Pound (LBP)

Time Zone

GMT+2 (EET)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Beirut is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Petty crime and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps
• Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas

Getting there

By air

Rafic Hariri International Airport • 9 km (5.6 miles) from city center

By bus

Charles Helou Bus Station, Dawra Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport, but they can be crowded and may not have fixed schedules.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Gemmayzeh Hamra Achrafieh

Day trips

Byblos

40 km (25 miles) • Half day to full day

One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Byblos offers ancient ruins, a charming old souk, and a picturesque harbor.

Jeita Grotto

20 km (12 miles) • Half day

A stunning natural limestone cave system with a breathtaking underground river and waterfalls, offering a unique and unforgettable experience.

Harissa

20 km (12 miles) • Half day

A picturesque hilltop town offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the famous Our Lady of Lebanon shrine, a popular pilgrimage site.

Festivals

Beirut International Film Festival • October to November Beirut Jazz Festival • July Eid al-Fitr • Varies by lunar calendar (usually April to June)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic phrases in Arabic to enhance your experience and interact with locals
Visit the Beirut Central District early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat
Try local street food like falafel, shawarma, and manakish for an authentic and affordable dining experience
Use ride-hailing apps like Bolt for a more convenient and reliable taxi experience
Explore the city's vibrant nightlife in neighborhoods like Gemmayzeh and Hamra, where you'll find a mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues