Full-Day Private Tour of Phoenician Sidon Tyre and Maghdouche
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8h
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About this experience
Experience two of the most famous Phoenician cities in Lebanon on this full-day guided tour from Beirut. Explore the second largest city "Sidon", the Queen of the Seas "Tyre", as well as Our Lady of Mantara in Maghdouche village. Make the most of your time traveling in an A/C modern vehicle with the personal attention of an expert guide.
Available options
Full-Day Private Tour of Phoenician Sidon Tyre and Maghdouche
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Hotel Pick-up and Drop-off
Air-conditioned vehicle
Professional Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Sidon is an old Phoenician city state located in the coastal line of the South of Lebanon. It’s the third largest city in Lebanon. Known for its port facilities since the Phoenician era, the ancient Sidon was a prosperous, enterprising and dynamic town that was admired and envied by most of the people of the Mediterranean.
2
Stop 2
Built in 1228 on top of a Phoenician temple, the Sea Castle was constructed by the Crusaders to defend Saida’s harbor as a fortress on a small island connected to the land by a stone bridge.
As typical of Crusader architecture, the castle features recycled Roman stones and columns.
3
Khan El Franj in Sidon is a khan is an old kind of accommodation where travelers and traders was able to rest and keep their commodity and animals.
A short walk south from the Sea Castle, the Khan al-Franj was built by Fakhr el-Dine Maan II in the early 17th century offering merchants a one-stop place for selling and buying cotton and silk. The ground floor was a market place, while on the upper floor the merchants could spend their time resting.
4
Pass by the traditional souks of Sidon, rich with old buildings and local shops.
5
Part of the Al Bass archaeological site, this well-preserved Roman hippodrome was built in the 2nd century AD. It is 90 meters wide, 480 meters long, had a capacity of about 40,000 people, and was built for chariot races.
6
At the entrance of Al Bass site was the necropolis of the city in the Roman era. This sizeable funerary complex has hundreds of ornate stone and marble sarcophagi as well as collective tomb structures, several still filled with bones.
7
A Shrine of Virgin Marry is located in a village named Maghdoushe, Southern Lebanon, near Sidon. It’s called “Our lady of awaiting” “Mantara” , since virgin Marry used to wait for Jesus in a grotto to be back from his preaching with his students.
What's not included
Lunch
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
AR
EN
FR
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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