An ancient Phoenician port with a sea castle and atmospheric old souks.
Sidon, known in Arabic as Saida, is one of the oldest Phoenician cities in the world, on Lebanon’s southern coast about 45 km from Beirut. Its landmark Crusader Sea Castle, labyrinth of covered souks and historic khans make it one of the country’s most atmospheric coastal towns.
"Quick facts",
Sidon was one of the great Phoenician city-states, a centre of trade and famous in antiquity for its purple dye and glass. Over the millennia it was ruled by Phoenicians, Persians, Greeks, Romans, Crusaders and Ottomans, and each era added to the fabric of the old town you see today.
A 13th-century Crusader fortress on a small island, linked to the shore by a causeway.
A warren of covered lanes packed with spice, craft and sweet shops.
A beautifully restored Ottoman caravanserai around a central courtyard.
A charming museum in a former soap factory, telling the story of Sidon’s soap-making.
Sidon is about 45 km south of Beirut — a 45-minute drive down the coast. It’s easily reached on a guided tour, most often combined with Tyre and the Maghdouche shrine on a full day exploring the south.
About 45 km — roughly a 45-minute drive south along the coast.
Its Crusader Sea Castle, historic covered souks, Ottoman khans and its long Phoenician history.
Yes — Sidon and Tyre are both in the south and are usually visited together, often with the Maghdouche shrine, in one day.
