South Lebanon: Sidon, Tyre & Maghdouché

Begin your journey at Sidon’s iconic Sea Castle, built by the Crusaders on a small island just off the historic harbor.

Cross the stone causeway, explore the surviving towers and fortifications, and enjoy panoramic views across Sidon’s waterfront and the Mediterranean Sea.

Highlights include:

• Historic Crusader architecture

• Sidon harbor views

• Ancient stone fortifications

• Excellent coastal photography opportunities

Continue into Sidon’s atmospheric Old City, where narrow lanes, traditional workshops, historic khans, mosques, hammams, and old family residences reveal centuries of local life.

Depending on timing and your interests, highlights may include:

• Khan El-Franj – historic caravanserai and trading center

• El-Omari Great Mosque – one of Sidon’s important historic religious landmarks

• Hammam Al-Jadeed – restored traditional bathhouse

• Debbane Palace Museum – elegant historic residence overlooking the old city

• Soap Museum – showcasing Sidon’s traditional olive-oil soap heritage

• Saint Louis Castle – historic fortress ruins overlooking the city

• Khan Sacy – traditional commercial quarter

• Hammam El-Sheikh – another example of Sidon’s historic bathhouse culture

You can also take time to explore local shops, traditional crafts, spices, and sweets.

Optional: tasting of traditional Sidon pastries and local specialties.

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Visit the archaeological remains of the Temple of Eshmun, one of Lebanon’s important Phoenician religious sites.

Dedicated to Eshmun, the Phoenician god associated with healing, the sanctuary offers a fascinating glimpse into the beliefs and architecture of ancient Sidon.

Explore the archaeological remains, carved stonework, altars, and peaceful surroundings of this historic sanctuary.

Continue south to Tyre, one of Lebanon’s great ancient cities and a UNESCO World Heritage destination.

Explore the impressive archaeological zone featuring remains from the Roman period, including:

• The monumental Roman hippodrome

• Ancient necropolis

• Colonnaded streets

• Roman baths

• Mosaics and stonework

• Monumental arches and archaeological remains

The scale of the site gives an extraordinary sense of Tyre’s importance during antiquity.

After exploring ancient Tyre, enjoy the more relaxed atmosphere of the old coastal city.

Walk around the fishermen’s harbor, colorful boats, narrow lanes, cafés, and waterfront streets while discovering another side of Tyre’s long history.

Depending on time, you can enjoy:

• Tyre Old Port

• Traditional fishing harbor

• Historic streets and houses

• Waterfront views

• Local cafés

• Leisurely coastal walk

As this is a private experience, your lunch stop remains flexible and can be adapted to your preferred taste, timing, and budget.

Possible options include:

• Fresh Mediterranean seafood in Sidon or Tyre

• Traditional Lebanese mezze and grills

• Casual local restaurants

• Seaside restaurants overlooking the Mediterranean

Your driver-guide will be happy to recommend suitable restaurants according to your preferences and the flow of the day.

Meals and drinks are not included in the tour price unless otherwise confirmed.

Conclude the journey at Our Lady of Mantara in Maghdouché, one of South Lebanon’s important Christian pilgrimage sites.

According to local Christian tradition, the Virgin Mary waited in this area while Jesus visited nearby towns during His ministry.

Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the sanctuary together with panoramic views across the surrounding hills and Mediterranean coastline.

Highlights include:

• Our Lady of Mantara sanctuary

• Spiritual and historical significance

• Panoramic coastal views

• Peaceful hilltop setting

For guests interested in extending the historical and scenic side of the journey, Beaufort Castle (Qalaat Al-Shaqif) may be added upon request when conditions and timing allow.

Standing high above the Litani Valley, this dramatic fortress offers:

• Impressive medieval architecture

• Sweeping mountain and valley views

• Centuries of regional history

• Excellent photography opportunities

Please note: adding Beaufort Castle involves additional driving and may extend the overall tour duration and affect the final price. Availability is confirmed before booking.