How to Plan Your Tour from Beirut: Sidon, Tyre, and Maghdoucheh Day Trip

If you are looking for a fascinating day trip from Beirut, then the Sidon, Tyre, and Maghdoucheh Day Trip is all you need. This tour takes you to visit the medieval cities of Sidon (Saida in Arabic) and Tyre and the religious site of Maghdoucheh. Here’s what you need to know to plan a trip to these exciting destinations.

Experience

On this tour, you get to explore the cities where Jesus preached and the areas that have been declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Beirut in an air-conditioned vehicle and driven to Sidon to visit the Sea Castle built by the crusaders in the 13th century. The castle was a fortress of the holy and a prison. Your tour guide will take you along the old souks to the Soap Museum, where you’ll learn about the history of soap-making, the industry that Sidon was once famous for. Next, you’ll head to Tyre (Sour in Arabic), where you’ll discover the city’s monuments, including the arches and remains of the Roman Hippodrome. You will have a chance to take a walk on the beach and view the city’s old architecture and industrious maritime character. After viewing the city of Tyre, you’ll make a stop at a local restaurant to have lunch. A delicious Lebanese meal will be served, and you can savor the country’s local cuisine. Finally, you’ll complete your trip with a visit to the village of Maghdoucheh, where the Virgin Mary used to wait for Jesus Christ when he preached near Sidon. This village holds a significant religious history for Christians all over the world with its ancient church, which dates back to the Byzantine era.

Highlights

– Explore the medieval cities of Sidon and Tyre – Learn about the soap-making history of Sidon – Discover the arches and Roman Hippodrome of Tyre – Stop for lunch at a local restaurant – Visit the ancient church of Maghdouche

Be Transported in an Air-Conditioned Vehicle

The tour begins with a pick-up from your hotel between 7:45 am – 8:30 am in an air-conditioned vehicle. The transport services provided by the tour company are top-notch, ensuring your comfortability as you travel to each site throughout the day.

The Local Souks of Sidon

One of the fascinating things to see on this trip is the historic souks of Sidon. Walking down the old souks to the soap museum, you will see vendors selling different types of merchandise from traditional olive oil soaps, handmade textiles, jewelry, and more.

Full Description

Your tour guide will lead you on this exciting adventure through Sidon, Tyre, and Maghdoucheh. You will visit historically significant sites such as the Sea Castle and the Soap Museum in Sidon, which dates back to the 13th century, followed by the ancient city of Tyre. You will learn about the history of these sites and take in the stunning architecture and scenic views of the Mediterranean sea throughout your day trip. After visiting Tyre, you can enjoy a traditional Lebanese meal at a local restaurant before heading to Maghdoucheh to see the ancient church, which holds a special place in religious history for Christians. After visiting all these sites, you’ll be dropped back off at your hotel in Beirut, with an estimated arrival time between 4:30 pm – 4:45 pm.

Includes

The tour is inclusive of the following: – Pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Beirut – Air-conditioned transportation – Entrance fees to all sites – Tour guide in English language – Lunch at a local restaurant

Book the Tour Here

If you want to experience this amazing tour and explore the cities of Sidon and Tyre, and Maghdoucheh, then book the tour through the following link: book the tour here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Beirut

If you’re planning a trip to Beirut, you’re likely to have a lot of questions. Beirut is a vibrant city with a rich history, and there is so much to see and do. In this FAQ, we hope to answer some of the most common questions travelers have about Beirut.

1. What is the history of Beirut?

Beirut has a long and varied history, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Stone Age. The city has been ruled by various empires over the years, including the Phoenicians, Romans, Ottomans, and French. In the mid-20th century, Beirut became known as the “Paris of the Middle East” due to its lively culture and cosmopolitan atmosphere. However, the city was devastated by a long civil war that lasted from 1975 to 1990. Since then, Beirut has undergone significant reconstruction and is now a bustling, modern city.

2. What are the best things to do in Beirut?

There are so many things to do in Beirut that it’s hard to know where to start. Some of the most popular attractions include:

• Visiting the National Museum of Beirut to learn about the city’s history
• Taking a stroll along the Corniche, a waterfront promenade that offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea
• Exploring the old city of Beirut, which is full of narrow streets and traditional markets
• Checking out the nightlife in the vibrant Gemmayzeh neighborhood
• Visiting the iconic Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque, a beautiful example of Islamic architecture

3. What is the food like in Beirut?

Beirut is famous for its delicious cuisine, which is influenced by the flavors of the Middle East, Mediterranean, and Europe. Some must-try dishes include:

• Tabbouleh – a salad made with parsley, mint, tomatoes, and bulgur wheat
• Hummus – a dip made from chickpeas, lemon, and tahini
• Falafel – deep-fried balls made from chickpeas or fava beans
• Manakish – a Lebanese-style pizza topped with cheese, za’atar, or meat

4. Is Beirut safe for travelers?

Beirut is generally considered safe for travelers, although it is always important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. There is a risk of petty crime in some areas, so it’s best to avoid displaying valuable items or carrying large amounts of cash. In addition, it’s important to stay up-to-date on any political developments or security threats in the region.

5. What is the best time of year to visit Beirut?

The best time to visit Beirut is between March and May or September and November. During these months, the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists than in the peak summer season. However, it’s still possible to visit Beirut year-round, as the city has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers.

6. What is the currency in Lebanon?

The currency in Lebanon is the Lebanese pound (LBP). However, US dollars are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas. It’s a good idea to carry both currencies with you when traveling in Beirut.

7. What language do people speak in Beirut?

The official language of Lebanon is Arabic, but many people in Beirut also speak French and English. It’s always a good idea to learn a few basic phrases in Arabic before traveling to Beirut, as this will be appreciated by the locals.

8. How do I get around Beirut?

The most popular way to get around Beirut is by taxi or Uber. Taxis are plentiful and relatively cheap, although it’s important to negotiate the fare before getting into the cab. Beirut also has a public bus system, although this can be confusing for visitors as there are no schedules or route maps.

9. What is the dress code in Beirut?

Beirut is a modern and cosmopolitan city, but it’s still important to dress modestly in public. This means avoiding revealing clothing, especially in religious areas. You may also want to bring a shawl or scarf to cover your shoulders when visiting mosques or churches.

10. Is there anything I should know before visiting Beirut?

Beirut is an exciting and vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage, but it’s also important to be aware of some of the challenges you may face as a traveler. For example, Lebanon has a high level of air pollution, especially in Beirut, so it’s important to take precautions if you have respiratory issues. In addition, it’s important to be respectful of the local culture and customs, especially when visiting religious sites or interacting with locals. With a little bit of preparation, however, you’re sure to have an incredible time in Beirut.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Beirut

If you’re planning to visit Beirut, you’re in for a treat. Beirut is a beautiful city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious food. However, with so many things to see and do, it can be challenging to know where to start. In this guide, we’ve put together a comprehensive list of the top things to do in Beirut to help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in the city.

1. Explore the City’s Rich History

Beirut has a fascinating history dating back to Roman times. Begin your tour of the city’s history at the National Museum of Beirut, where you can see an extensive collection of artifacts from different periods of Lebanon’s history. You can learn about everything from the Phoenicians to the Ottomans. Another stop on your historical tour should be the Roman Baths, which is the largest ancient bathing complex in the city. It is located in Downtown Beirut, and it dates back to the 2nd century. Other noteworthy historical sites include the Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque, Martyrs Square, and the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of Saint George.

2. Eat Your Way Through Beirut

Beirut is a food lover’s paradise. Lebanese cuisine is a blend of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients. Make sure you sample the local cuisine during your trip. Start your food journey with meze, which is a selection of small dishes, such as hummus, tabbouleh, and baba ghanoush. For lunch or dinner, head to one of the many restaurants offering delicious Lebanese dishes. Some of the best places to eat in Beirut include Al Falamanki, Tawlet, and Em Sherif. Don’t forget to try traditional Lebanese desserts like baklava, which is made with layers of phyllo pastry, ground nuts, and syrup.

3. Take a Stroll Along the Corniche

Beirut’s beautiful Corniche is undoubtedly one of the city’s highlights. The pedestrian walkway runs for nearly 4 miles along the coast, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Take a leisurely stroll along the Corniche and enjoy the scenery. You can stop at one of the many cafés along the way for a coffee or a fresh juice.

4. Visit Beirut’s Art Galleries and Museums

Beirut is a cultural hub with many art galleries and museums to explore. Some of the most impressive art galleries in Beirut include Agial Art Gallery, Galerie Tanit, and the Sursock Museum. The Sursock Museum is a must-visit. It is one of Beirut’s most important cultural institutions, and it houses a vast collection of modern and contemporary art. The museum also features temporary exhibitions, workshops, and events throughout the year.

5. Get Lost in the Souks

Beirut’s souks are a bustling collection of shops, and they’re a great place to get lost for a few hours. You can find everything from spices, textiles, jewelry, and clothing. Some of the best souks to explore include the Souk Al Tayeb, the Souk El Barghout, and the Souk El Ahad.

6. Visit the Jeita Grotto

The Jeita Grotto is a natural wonder situated just a short drive from the city. The grotto comprises two caves, the upper and the lower cave, which are filled with stunning rock formations and underground rivers. The cave system is impressive, and it’s not hard to see why it was a finalist for the New Seven Wonders of Nature.

7. Enjoy Nightlife in Beirut

Beirut has a vibrant nightlife scene that’s worth experiencing. Some of the best pubs and bars in Beirut include the Internazionale, The Dirty Laundry, and Coop d’État. For live music, the Music Hall is a must-visit.

8. Relax at the Beach

Beirut has several beaches where you can enjoy the Mediterranean sun. Ramlet al-Baida Beach is a popular spot, but you can also visit private beaches like Saadiyat Beach Club or Sporting Club Beach Resort.

Book Your Tour Now

Beirut is an exciting city that’s full of history, culture, and delicious food. With this guide, you’re sure to have a memorable trip to Beirut. Don’t forget to plan ahead, so you can optimize your time in the city and see all the best sights.