Sidon (Saida): Delve into the Ancient Port City of Sidon

Visitor Fee:

• Sidon Sea Castle: The entrance fee to the Sea Castle is typically around 7,500 LBP for adults. Students and children may receive discounted rates.
• Debbane Palace: Entry to this historical palace, which now serves as a museum, usually costs around 5,000 LBP.
• Sidon Soap Museum: The entrance fee is around 5,000 LBP for adults, with discounts available for students and children.

Transportation:

• By Car: Sidon is located about 40 km south of Beirut and is easily accessible by car via the coastal highway. Parking is generally available near the old city and major attractions.
• Public Transport: Buses and service taxis frequently run between Beirut and Sidon, making it a convenient option for those without a car. The trip typically takes about an hour.
• On Foot: Once in Sidon, the old city and its attractions are best explored on foot, as many of the streets are narrow and pedestrian-friendly.

Things to Do:

• Visit the Sidon Sea Castle: This 13th-century Crusader castle is one of Sidon’s most iconic landmarks. Located at the edge of the harbor, the castle offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean and the city. Visitors can explore the ruins, including the towers and the small mosque within the castle.
• Explore the Old Souk: Sidon’s old souk is a labyrinth of narrow streets filled with shops selling spices, textiles, traditional crafts, and fresh produce. The souk has a lively atmosphere and offers a glimpse into local daily life.
• Sidon Soap Museum: Learn about the history and process of soap-making in Sidon, which dates back centuries. The museum is housed in a restored soap factory and offers interactive exhibits and demonstrations.
• Debbane Palace: This 18th-century palace is an excellent example of Ottoman architecture, featuring beautiful arches, intricate woodwork, and a collection of artifacts from Sidon’s history.
• Templar Castle: Known as the Land Castle, this fortress was built by the Crusaders and later expanded by the Mamluks. It’s located near the old souk and offers another perspective on the city’s medieval history.
• Sayyida Zainab Mosque: An important Shia mosque with impressive architecture, located near the Sea Castle. It’s a significant religious site in Sidon.

Why People Enjoy Coming Here:

• Sidon, one of Lebanon’s oldest cities, offers a rich blend of history, culture, and traditional architecture. Visitors are drawn to its ancient landmarks, vibrant souks, and the opportunity to experience the everyday life of a Lebanese coastal city. The city's deep historical roots, dating back to the Phoenicians, add to its allure, making it a destination for both history enthusiasts and casual travelers.

How Old is This Place:

• Sidon has a history stretching back over 6,000 years, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. It was an important Phoenician city-state and has been influenced by various civilizations, including the Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, and Ottomans.

List of Activities:

• Exploring the Sidon Sea Castle and enjoying views of the Mediterranean.
• Wandering through the old souk and shopping for traditional goods.
• Visiting the Sidon Soap Museum to learn about the city’s soap-making heritage.
• Touring Debbane Palace to see Ottoman-era architecture.
• Exploring the Templar Castle (Land Castle).
• Visiting mosques and other religious sites.
• Sampling local Lebanese cuisine in the city’s restaurants and cafés.

Additional Nearby Attractions:

• Maghdoucheh: A nearby town famous for the shrine of Our Lady of Mantara, offering religious and historical significance.
• Tyre (Sour): Located further south, Tyre is another ancient Phoenician city known for its Roman ruins, beautiful beaches, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
• Chouf Mountains: A bit further inland, offering nature reserves, cedar forests, and traditional mountain villages like Deir el Qamar and Beiteddine.
• Khan al-Franj: A historic caravanserai in Sidon’s old city, once a center of trade and now a cultural site and exhibition space.

Sidon (Saida) offers a fascinating mix of ancient history and vibrant modern life, making it an essential stop for anyone exploring Lebanon’s rich cultural heritage.