Sidon or better known as Saida is the third-largest city in Lebanon. It is located on the Mediterranean coast in the South Governorate, of which it is the capital. Tyre, to the south, and the Lebanese capital of Beirut, to the north, are both about 40 kilometres away. Wikipedia
Known for: The Sea Castle, Old Souk, delicious street food (especially sweets), and centuries of layered history
Location: ~40 km (25 miles) south of Beirut — about 45 minutes to 1 hour by car
Spring (March–May): 🌸
✅ Ideal for walking through the souks and along the sea
✅ Mild weather, great for photos and exploration
Fall (September–November): 🍂
✅ Less heat, fewer crowds — best for a relaxed trip
Summer (June–August): ☀️
🔥 Hot and lively — perfect for beach stops and vibrant market life
Winter (December–February): 🌧️
🌦️ Mild with possible rain, but fewer tourists and quieter streets
🚗 By Car:
~45–60 min drive from Beirut on the coastal highway (Route 51)
Easy parking near the Sea Castle or in public lots near the old city
🚌 By Bus/Minivan:
Regular minibuses from Beirut’s Cola Station to Sidon
Budget-friendly (~$1–$2 USD), frequent and quick
Built by Crusaders in the 13th century on a small island connected by a causeway
Iconic photo spot with sea views and city skyline in the background
Climb the towers for amazing panoramas of the harbor
One of the most authentic souks in Lebanon
Narrow stone alleys full of bakeries, spice shops, tailors, and sweets vendors
Handwoven baskets, soaps, and copperware are common finds
Housed in a restored Ottoman mansion
Learn the history of olive-oil soap making and local traditions
Features interactive exhibits and a shop with artisanal products
17th-century Ottoman caravanserai built by Emir Fakhreddine
Peaceful courtyard, arcades, and occasional exhibitions
Historically used by merchants and travelers
Formerly a Crusader church converted into a mosque
Located near the souk — mix of Gothic and Islamic architecture
🏰 Tour the Sea Castle and take in coastal views
🚶 Wander the Old Souk and try local street food
🧼 Visit the Soap Museum and buy handmade soaps
🍰 Sample traditional sweets like sfouf, maamoul, and knefeh
🛶 Take a boat ride around the castle for a sea view
📷 Explore Khan el Franj and photograph arched corridors
Sidon is mainly a day-trip destination, but you’ll find a few options:
Yacoub Hotel – charming historic building, close to the souk
Rester Hotel – modern, a bit outside the city center
Beit Al Mamlouka (Airbnb-style guesthouses) – cozy stays in restored homes
Many travelers prefer to stay in Beirut and visit Sidon as a half- or full-day excursion.
Falafel Abou Rami – legendary for its crunchy, flavorful falafel
Al Baba Sweets – famous Lebanese pastries like maamoul, baklava, knefeh
Shawarma and mana’eesh stands throughout the souk
Tawlet Saida – farm-to-table Lebanese dishes by local women (check schedule)
Saida Rest House – lovely setting near the sea castle
Zawat Restaurant – good local food with harbor views
Sidon’s history spans Phoenician, Roman, Crusader, Mamluk, and Ottoman periods
Deep-rooted traditions in trading, soap making, and Islamic scholarship
The Old Souk is still a center of daily life for locals, not just tourists
Mix of modern and conservative cultural expressions — respectful clothing recommended
💵 Bring cash (USD or LBP) — many shops don’t take cards
📱 Coverage is good — you can use ride apps like Bolt or Uber
👟 Wear comfortable shoes — souk streets are cobbled and uneven
🧴 Sunscreen and water are essential in warmer months
📸 The Sea Castle can get crowded — visit early for quiet photos
🛍️ Prices in the souk are often negotiable — friendly bargaining is welcomed