Things To Do
in Sidon
Sidon, or Saida, sits along the Mediterranean coast in southern Lebanon, blending ancient history with a lively modern waterfront. The city preserves ruins from the Phoenician era, Crusader Forts, and a captivating old souk where spices, silver, and crafts fill the lanes. Its harborfront and sea breeze invite strolling, seafood meals, and sunset views over the bay.
Sidon also offers a warm, hospitable culture with a relaxed pace that makes exploring its bazars and museums rewarding.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the ancient Sidon Sea Castle, where the sound of waves crashing against the stone walls fills the air. As you wander through the castle's corridors, take in the panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the bustling city below. Enjoy a traditional Lebanese breakfast at a nearby café, savoring fresh bread, labneh, and olives.
Stroll through the vibrant old souks of Sidon, where the scents of spices and freshly baked goods envelop you. Engage with local vendors selling handmade crafts, textiles, and delicious street food, allowing yourself to be immersed in the lively atmosphere. Visit the Soap Museum, where you can learn about the city's famous soap-making tradition and even participate in a soap-making workshop.
As the sun sets, head to the waterfront promenade for a leisurely walk, where you can watch fishermen bringing in their catch of the day. Indulge in a seafood dinner at a seaside restaurant, enjoying dishes like grilled fish and shrimp with a view of the shimmering sea. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local café for a cup of aromatic Lebanese coffee or mint tea.
Take a short drive to the nearby ancient city of Tyre, where you'll explore the remarkable Roman ruins that tell the story of this historical hub. Begin your day with a guided tour of the impressive Roman Hippodrome, one of the largest in the Roman Empire, learning about the chariot races that once took place here. Enjoy a light breakfast at a local bakery, sampling fresh pastries and local delicacies.
Continue your exploration by visiting the beautiful Tyre Beach, where you can relax on the sandy shores or take a dip in the refreshing Mediterranean waters. For lunch, savor traditional Lebanese dishes at a beachfront restaurant, enjoying fresh fish and salads prepared with local ingredients. Afterward, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Al-Bass archaeological site, where ancient mosaics and ruins await your discovery.
Return to Sidon and unwind at a local café, sipping on refreshing drinks while enjoying the lively atmosphere. As the evening unfolds, treat yourself to a dinner featuring regional specialties such as kebabs and tabbouleh at a cozy restaurant. End your day with a stroll along the corniche, where the sound of the waves provides a soothing backdrop to your reflections.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🥗Three-course meal for two (mid-range) | $25-40 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $60-120 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within the city | $3-10 |
| 📶Local SIM card with data | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Phoenician and Crusader history
- Excellent seafood and mezze
- Walkable old town with lively souks
- Friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere
- Low-cost, accessible coastal destination
- Nightlife lighter than Beirut or other cities
- Currency fluctuations and variable card acceptance
- Occasional electricity and water supply issues
- Border and regional security considerations
- Some sites require short drives outside the city
- "Marhaba" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Min fadlik" - Please
- "Kam al-thaman?" - What is the price?
- "Ayna al-hammam?" - Where is the restroom?
- "Kif halak?" - How are you?
Places to Visit in Sidon
Visit one of these nice places.
Crusader-era fortress perched by the waves with dramatic sea-facing battlements.
Narrow alleys, wooden doors, and colorful market stalls ideal for candid street photography.
Harbor lights and fishing boats with reflective water for golden-hour shots.
Historic stone walls offering elevated views over the old town.
Food in Sidon
Sidon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant fish and rice dish cooked with onions, spices, and a squeeze of lemon.
Must-Try!
A spicy fish dish, often served with tahini and lemon.
Flatbread topped with sesame and herbs, a common street bite.
Crushed bulgur croquettes filled with spiced meat; available fried or baked.
Sweet pastry with nuts and honey—perfect with coffee after a meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling fish stalls, spice counters, and fresh produce along the waterfront.
Lanes filled with brassware, textiles, dried fruits, and street snack stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Handshake or light kiss on both cheeks among friends; address elders with politeness.
Dress modestly in religious sites; avoid loud behavior in markets during prayer times; modest clothing for visits to mosques and churches.
Safety
Tipping in Sidon
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 10-15% is customary if service is not included. Taxis usually do not expect tips beyond round-up.
Cash (USD or Lebanese LBP) is widely used, though many places accept major cards; small vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry, beach days and evenings by the sea are popular; stay hydrated and seek shade during peak sun hours.
Mild days and cooler evenings; great for walking tours and outdoor dining.
Cool to mild with occasional rain; pack a light rain jacket and layers.
Pleasant temperatures, blooming herbs; ideal for photography and walking tours.
Sidon at Night
Hiking in Sidon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short drive from Sidon to Jezzine for a forested hike and waterfall views.
Easy to moderate coastal climbs with sea panoramas along the southern coast.
Airports
How to reach Sidon by plane.
Main international gateway to Lebanon; about 40–60 minutes by car depending on traffic; taxis, private transfers, or airport buses are available.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Muslim and Christian communities, including Sunni, Shia, Greek Orthodox, and Melkite groups.
A blend of locals, students, and regional travelers contributing to a hospitable culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular pastime and major league games occur regionally; local clubs host matches in city stadiums.
Common recreational sport with local leagues and public courts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sidon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many mezze items are vegetarian (hummus, tabbouleh, falafel). Ask for no meat stock in stews and use olive oil-based dressings.