
Sidon, Tyre & Maghdouche Small-Group Tour | Lunch Included
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 12 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Sidon, Tyre & Maghdouche Small-Group Tour | Lunch Included worth booking?
Sidon, Tyre & Maghdouche Small-Group Tour | Lunch Included is a 8-hour experience in Beirut, Lebanon, from $45 per person. It scores 74 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 12 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 74 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (12)
- Duration
- 8 hours
- From
- $45 per person
South Lebanon is the part of the country most visitors skip — and it is the part that consistently surprises them most when they actually go. This guided small-group day trip from Beirut covers three destinations that together span 5,000 years of Phoenician, Crusader, Roman, and sacred history — with a guide who makes every stop make sense and lunch fully included. Sidon: a 13th-century Crusader sea castle built on an island off the coast, a medieval souk that actually still functions, the world's only olive oil soap museum, and a Silk Road caravanserai. Tyre: a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the Al-Bass archaeological complex — triumphal arch, colonnaded street, Roman hippodrome seating 20,000 — is one of the most complete Roman urban landscapes anywhere in the Mediterranean. Maghdouché: a hilltop sanctuary where the Virgin Mary is held to have waited while Jesus preached in Sidon — revered by Christians and Muslims for two millennia. Three stops, one guide, one included lunch.
What you get
About this experience
South Lebanon is the part of the country most visitors skip — and it is the part that consistently surprises them most when they actually go. This guided small-group day trip from Beirut covers three destinations that together span 5,000 years of Phoenician, Crusader, Roman, and sacred history — with a guide who makes every stop make sense and lunch fully included. Sidon: a 13th-century Crusader sea castle built on an island off the coast, a medieval souk that actually still functions, the world's only olive oil soap museum, and a Silk Road caravanserai. Tyre: a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the Al-Bass archaeological complex — triumphal arch, colonnaded street, Roman hippodrome seating 20,000 — is one of the most complete Roman urban landscapes anywhere in the Mediterranean. Maghdouché: a hilltop sanctuary where the Virgin Mary is held to have waited while Jesus preached in Sidon — revered by Christians and Muslims for two millennia. Three stops, one guide, one included lunch.
What's included
Included
- Entry/Admission to Sidon Castle (if option selected)
- Lunch in a local restaurant (if option selected)
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Beirut
- Entry/Admission to Sidon Soap Museum ( if option selected )
- Professional expert guide
- Entry/Admission to Al-Bass Archaeological Site ( if option selected )
Not included
- Gratuities (optional)
- Food or drinks unless specified
What you'll see and do
Beirut
8:30 AM — Hotel pickup Your guide meets the group at your Beirut hotel and heads south along the Mediterranean coastal highway. Sidon is 45 minutes away.
Pass by without stopping
Crusaders Sea Castle
Sidon Sea Castle — Crusader fortress on a Mediterranean island A 13th-century Crusader fortress on a small island just off the coast, connected to shore by a stone causeway with open sea on both sides. Phoenician traders were using this harbour 3,000 years before the Crusaders built here. Your guide covers the full layered history — Phoenician port to Crusader fortress to Mamluk conquest — from the castle ramparts.
30 minutes here · Admission included
Sidon Souks
Sidon Old Souks — the real thing Stone-vaulted alleyways where spice merchants, goldsmiths, and artisan workshops have traded continuously for centuries. Not renovated for tourism — actually functioning, actually unchanged. Your guide points out what makes Sidon's market different from every other souk in Lebanon.
60 minutes here
Soap Museum — the only one of its kind on earth. Sidon has been producing olive oil soap for over a thousand years — and this museum, the only one dedicated to the craft anywhere in the world, tells the complete story. Housed in a restored khan in the old city. A genuinely surprising and informative stop that most travelers did not know they wanted until they are inside it.
30 minutes here · Admission included
Khan al-Franj
Khan el Franj — where the Silk Road met the Mediterranean A 17th-century caravanserai built by Emir Fakhreddine II for European merchants trading along the Silk Road — arcaded courtyards, vaulted galleries, carved stone facades. One of the finest Ottoman buildings in Lebanon and a fitting final image of Sidon before heading south.
15 minutes here
Al-Bass Archaeological Site
Al-Bass Archaeological Complex — Roman Tyre at full scale Enter through a triumphal arch still standing after two thousand years. Walk a colonnaded street flanked by ancient sarcophagi from the Roman necropolis. Reach the Tyre Hippodrome — one of the largest in the Roman world, built for 20,000 spectators on a 480-metre track, starting gates and turning posts still in place. Your guide places every structure in its Roman and Phoenician context — this is the kind of site where having the right guide is the difference between a good visit and an unforgettable one.
60 minutes here · Admission included
Tyre
Lunch in Tyre — included Fresh Lebanese mezze and seafood at a local Tyre restaurant — Mediterranean right there, ancient city as backdrop. Fully included.
60 minutes here
Basilica of Our Lady of Mantara — Mantara means "the one who waits" Christian tradition holds that the Virgin Mary waited in a cave here while Jesus preached in Sidon below. The Arabic name — Mantara, "the one who waits" — has been attached to this place for two millennia. Revered by Christians and Muslims alike. The Basilica stands above the ancient cave, panoramic views over the southern Lebanese coast below. A quiet, unexpected close to a day that started at a Crusader sea castle and covered 5,000 years of history along the way.
15 minutes here
Beirut
Return to Beirut — approx. 5:30–6:30 PM Drop-off at your Beirut hotel. South Lebanon done properly — Phoenician, Crusader, Roman, and sacred, all in one day.
Pass by without stopping
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 30 minutes before departure.
Options you can book
GUIDED TOUR + LUNCH
Tickets not included:: Please note this option does not include tickets. Lunch included:: The lunch is included in the price of the tour Guided Tour:: Guided Visit to Sidon & Tyre Pickup included
GUIDED TOUR + LUNCH + TICKETS
Tickets Included:: Tickets Included: Tickets to Historical Sites are included on the price of the tour Lunch included:: The lunch is included in the price of the tour Guided Tour:: Guided Visit to Sidon & Tyre Pickup included
GUIDED TOUR WITHOUT LUNCH
Lunch & Tickets not included: : Please note this option does not include the Lunch and tickets. This cost goes on your own. Guided Tour:: Guided Visit to Sidon & Tyre Pickup included
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- ar, en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Mon, Tue, Thu
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Beirut Daily Tours
Know before you go
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 12 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
8 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
8 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Value for money
2 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Food and drink
2 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Traveler reviews
12 verified traveler reviews for Sidon, Tyre & Maghdouche Small-Group Tour | Lunch Included. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Lebanon tours and trips
I had a wonderful trip to the south of Lebanon with Albert as our guide. The pick-up and drop-off were very easy and convenient, and the ride was comfortable throughout the trip. We were able to see many of the main attractions, ruins, and hidden gems throughout the cities of southern Lebanon. Despite the ongoing aggression in the south, I felt that the tour company and our guide handled everything professionally, safely, and in a very timely manner. Albert and the team were extremely knowledgeable and were able to answer all of my questions about the history, culture, and sites we visited. I really appreciated being able to experience and learn about this beautiful part of Lebanon, especially places that I may not have been able to discover on my own. The tour was also excellent value for the money and made for the perfect day trip. It was a great way to see so much of southern Lebanon in one day without having to worry about transportation, planning the route, or navigating between the different sites yourself. Overall, it was an excellent experience, and I would definitely recommend this tour to anyone who wants to explore the incredible history, culture, and beauty of southern Lebanon.
via Tripadvisor
Sidon and Tyre!
Visited Sidon and Tyre today! And Albert was an amazing tour guide as ever! Making us laugh the entire journey! Definitely request this man for a fun trip! So much history explored with him! We visited the hippodrome the seaside and put our feet in the Mediterranean, walked the roads kings and rulers of the ancient past walked!
Response from the operator: Thank you for the fantastic review! We're so happy you enjoyed discovering the rich history of Sidon and Tyre with Albert—he truly brings the past to life with fun and laughter. Looking forward to your next adventure with us!
via Tripadvisor
Great tour
I took a trip to Sidon and Tyre with the guide Alain and driver Mustafa. They were both very nice, friendly and respectful. Alain told us a lot of interesting facts about the history of Lebanon. He also took us, upon my request, to Dar Debbané in Sidon, which was a beautiful addition to our program.
via Tripadvisor
Lovely relaxed day
Another excellent tour with Hassane. With only two of us in tow the day was engaging and indulgent particularly Sidon. Tyre on the sea was picturesque.
Response from the operator: Dear Guest: Thank you for sharing your wonderful experience with Hassane! We're delighted to hear that your tour was engaging and indulgent, especially during your visit to Sidon. The picturesque setting of Tyre on the sea must have been truly memorable. We appreciate your feedback and hope to welcome you back for more amazing tours in the future!
via Tripadvisor
Excellent vfm tour
A wonderful one to one tour of coastal southern Lebanon. My driver and guide, Albert, was exceptionally interesting and great company. They were 8 of the best hours I spent in Lebanon. The tour included a visit to the Crusader Castle and the souk in Sidon, the wonderful Roman remains in Tyre, and the beautiful church in Maghdouche. All washed down with one of the best meals I had while in Lebanon. The tour is excellent value for money compared to other similar offers, since it includes the cost of entry and lunch. I really would recommend it.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 8 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Mon, Tue, Thu
- Price range
- $45 to $150
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 4
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Who runs this experience
Operated by Beirut Daily Tours, who run 21 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 59.3.
See everything Beirut Daily Tours runsWhy this scores 74
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Sidon, Tyre & Maghdouche Small-Group Tour | Lunch Included: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Beirut.
How much does Sidon, Tyre & Maghdouche Small-Group Tour | Lunch Included cost?
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Prices start at $45 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Beirut usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Sidon, Tyre & Maghdouche Small-Group Tour | Lunch Included take?
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Plan for about 8 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Beirut is not rushed.
Is Sidon, Tyre & Maghdouche Small-Group Tour | Lunch Included worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 74 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 12 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Beirut, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Sidon, Tyre & Maghdouche Small-Group Tour | Lunch Included?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Sidon, Tyre & Maghdouche Small-Group Tour | Lunch Included suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 8-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Sidon, Tyre & Maghdouche Small-Group Tour | Lunch Included?
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Around 4 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Beirut can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Beirut and add a light layer if any part of the 8-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Sidon, Tyre & Maghdouche Small-Group Tour | Lunch Included start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Beirut within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Beirut?
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On Outty we rank every Beirut experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Guided Small-Group Tour to Baalbek, Anjar and Ksara with Lunch, Guided Small-Group Tour to Jeita, Harissa, Byblos with Lunch, Jeita Grotto, Harisa & Byblos: Small Group Tour with Hotel pickup. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Beirut?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Beirut?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Sidon, Tyre & Maghdouche Small-Group Tour | Lunch Included?
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Included: Entry/Admission to Sidon Castle (if option selected); Lunch in a local restaurant (if option selected); Air-conditioned vehicle; Hotel pickup and drop-off in Beirut; and Entry/Admission to Sidon Soap Museum ( if option selected ). Not included: Gratuities (optional); and Food or drinks unless specified. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Sidon, Tyre & Maghdouche Small-Group Tour | Lunch Included include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 176 listed pickup locations in and around Beirut. Be ready about 30 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Sidon, Tyre & Maghdouche Small-Group Tour | Lunch Included offered in?
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It is offered in Arabic and English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Sidon, Tyre & Maghdouche Small-Group Tour | Lunch Included?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Sidon, Tyre & Maghdouche Small-Group Tour | Lunch Included wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Specialized infant seats are available. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Sidon, Tyre & Maghdouche Small-Group Tour | Lunch Included if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Beirut. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Sidon, Tyre & Maghdouche Small-Group Tour | Lunch Included?
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Across 12 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, value for money. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
What booking options are available for Sidon, Tyre & Maghdouche Small-Group Tour | Lunch Included?
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There are 3 options to choose from, including GUIDED TOUR + LUNCH, GUIDED TOUR + LUNCH + TICKETS, GUIDED TOUR WITHOUT LUNCH. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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