Home › Destinations › Sidon
Sidon, لبنان - Things to Do in Sidon

Things to Do in Sidon

Sidon, لبنان - Complete Travel Guide

Sidon, one of Lebanon's most ancient cities, stands as a testament to over 6,000 years of continuous civilization along the Mediterranean coast. This historic Phoenician port city, located 45 kilometers south of Beirut, seamlessly blends its rich archaeological heritage with vibrant modern Lebanese culture. The city's crown jewel is its remarkably preserved Crusader Sea Castle, rising dramatically from the Mediterranean waters, while the bustling souks and traditional hammams in the old city transport visitors back through millennia of trade and cultural exchange. Today's Sidon offers travelers an authentic Lebanese experience away from the more touristy destinations, where ancient stone architecture houses traditional craftsmen, spice merchants, and local families who have called this city home for generations. The city's strategic coastal location provides stunning sea views, excellent seafood cuisine, and easy access to both mountain excursions and other historic Lebanese cities, making it an ideal base for exploring the region's diverse landscapes and cultural treasures.

Top Things to Do in Sidon

Explore Sidon Sea Castle and Crusader Fortress

This iconic 13th-century fortress, built on a small island connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway, offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean and the city's coastline. The castle's well-preserved walls and chambers provide insight into Crusader military architecture, while the surrounding area is perfect for photography and sunset viewing. The fortress stands as one of Lebanon's most photographed landmarks and represents centuries of maritime history.

Booking Tip: Entry costs around $3-5 USD and the site is open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM. Visit during late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds. No advance booking required, but bring comfortable walking shoes for the stone surfaces.

Wander Through the Traditional Souks and Khan al-Franj

The covered markets of Sidon's old city offer an authentic Middle Eastern shopping experience with traditional crafts, spices, textiles, and local specialties. Khan al-Franj, a beautifully restored 17th-century caravanserai, now houses cultural exhibitions and provides insight into the city's commercial heritage. The narrow alleyways are filled with the aromas of traditional Lebanese products and the sounds of local merchants conducting business as they have for centuries.

Booking Tip: Free to explore, but bring cash for purchases as most vendors don't accept cards. Best visited in the morning (9-11 AM) when shops are opening and the atmosphere is most authentic. Bargaining is expected and part of the cultural experience.

Visit the Soap Museum and Traditional Hammam

This unique museum showcases Sidon's 700-year tradition of soap making, housed in a beautifully restored 13th-century building. Visitors can learn about traditional olive oil soap production methods and purchase authentic Lebanese soaps made with local ingredients. The adjacent traditional hammam offers an authentic Middle Eastern bathing experience that has been a cornerstone of local culture for centuries.

Booking Tip: Museum entry is around $5 USD, open Tuesday-Sunday 9 AM-5 PM. Hammam sessions cost $15-25 USD and should be booked in advance, especially on weekends. The experience includes traditional scrubbing and massage services.

Discover Sidon's Archaeological Sites and Ancient Temples

Explore the remnants of Phoenician, Roman, and Byzantine civilizations scattered throughout the city, including ancient burial grounds, Roman ruins, and the foundations of historic temples. The archaeological sites provide fascinating insights into the layers of history that make Sidon one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities. Many sites are integrated into the modern cityscape, creating unique juxtapositions of ancient and contemporary life.

Booking Tip: Most sites are free to visit and accessible year-round. Consider hiring a local guide for $20-30 USD to fully appreciate the historical significance and locate lesser-known ruins. Early morning visits offer the best lighting for photography and cooler temperatures.

Experience Traditional Lebanese Cuisine and Seafood

Sidon's coastal location and agricultural hinterland make it a paradise for food lovers, offering exceptional fresh seafood, traditional mezze, and regional Lebanese specialties. The city's restaurants range from family-run establishments serving recipes passed down through generations to upscale dining venues with Mediterranean views. Local specialties include fresh fish preparations, traditional kibbeh, and unique regional sweets that reflect the city's diverse cultural influences.

Booking Tip: Lunch typically costs $10-20 USD per person at mid-range restaurants, with dinner slightly higher. Seafood restaurants along the corniche offer the best ambiance and freshest catches. Reservations recommended for dinner, especially on weekends and during summer months.

Getting There

Sidon is easily accessible by car or bus from Beirut, with the journey taking approximately 45-60 minutes via the coastal highway. Regular buses and shared taxis (service) operate from Beirut's Cola intersection and cost around $2-3 USD per person. For international visitors, the nearest airport is Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport, about 55 kilometers north. Rental cars provide the most flexibility for exploring the region, while private taxis from Beirut cost approximately $25-35 USD. The coastal drive offers scenic Mediterranean views and passes through several historic towns worth brief stops.

Getting Around

Sidon's historic center is compact and best explored on foot, with most major attractions within walking distance of each other. Local taxis are readily available for longer distances and typically charge $3-8 USD for trips within the city. The old souks and narrow streets are pedestrian-friendly, though comfortable walking shoes are essential due to uneven stone surfaces. For visits to nearby attractions or beaches, shared taxis and private cars can be arranged through hotels or local operators. The city's small size makes navigation straightforward, and most locals speak Arabic, French, and basic English.

Where to Stay

Old City Historic Area
Corniche and Seafront
Modern Downtown District
Ain al-Hilweh Area
Mieh w Mieh Coastal Strip
Sarafand Beach Area

Food & Dining

Sidon's culinary scene reflects its position as a major fishing port and agricultural center, with restaurants specializing in incredibly fresh seafood and traditional Lebanese cuisine. The corniche area features several upscale restaurants with sea views serving grilled fish, seafood mezze, and international dishes, while the old city's narrow streets hide family-run establishments offering authentic home-style cooking at very reasonable prices. Local specialties include fresh catches prepared with traditional Lebanese spices, excellent hummus and tabbouleh, and regional sweets like muhallabia and baklava. Street food vendors throughout the souks offer quick bites like falafel, shawarma, and fresh fruit juices, providing delicious and budget-friendly options for casual dining.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Lebanon

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

appetito trattoria

4.7 /5
(1167 reviews)

Un basilico

4.8 /5
(535 reviews)

Stun Sushi Lounge

4.9 /5
(342 reviews)
bar

Appetito Trattoria Hazmieh

4.7 /5
(304 reviews)

Verona Resto

4.8 /5
(238 reviews)

Ryukai

4.7 /5
(243 reviews)
all dining options →

When to Visit

The ideal time to visit Sidon is during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when temperatures are pleasant, ranging from 20-25°C, and rainfall is minimal. Summer months (June-August) can be hot and humid with temperatures reaching 30-35°C, but the coastal location provides refreshing sea breezes, making it still enjoyable for those who don't mind heat. Winter (December-February) is mild with occasional rain, offering fewer crowds and lower accommodation prices, though some outdoor activities may be limited. The city's Mediterranean climate means it can be visited year-round, but spring and fall provide the most comfortable conditions for walking through historic sites and exploring the outdoor attractions.

Insider Tips

Visit the Sea Castle during late afternoon for the best photography lighting and to avoid the midday heat, when the golden hour creates stunning reflections on the water
Bargaining is expected in the souks, but start your negotiations respectfully and be prepared to walk away - vendors often call you back with better prices
Try to visit during weekdays when possible, as weekends bring many Lebanese families from Beirut and can make restaurants and attractions more crowded

Explore Activities in Sidon