Tyre

Tyre (Arabic: صور, Sour) is a historic city in the South Governorate ~80 km south of Beirut. One of the most important Phoenician city-states, it established colonies across the Mediterranean including Carthage. UNESCO World Heritage site with spectacular Roman and Byzantine ruins.

By Plane

Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY IATA) 80 km north (1 hr, taxi US$60–80).

By Car / Road

Coastal highway south from Beirut (1 hr). Buses from Cola station (LL25,000–35,000).

Walkable ruins and old town. Service taxis for beaches.

• Al-Bass Archaeological Site – Roman hippodrome (20,000 seats), triumphal arch, necropolis. UNESCO.

• Tyre City Center Ruins – Roman baths, colonnaded streets.

• Tyre Coast Nature Reserve – Protected sandy beaches.

• Old City – Souks and the fishing port.

• Beach time – Some of Lebanon's best sandy beaches.

• Archaeological exploration – Full day at Al-Bass site.

• Sunset at the port – Fishing boats in the evening.

• Seafood – Famous fresh fish restaurants along the coast.
• Street food – Falafel and shawarma.
• Lebanese meze – Old city restaurants.

Arabic coffee and fresh juices.

• Budget: Guesthouses, US$30–50/night
• Mid-range: Al Fanar Hotel, US$60–90/night
• Upscale: Beach resorts south of town, US$100–200/night

Souvenirs at site entrance. Handicrafts.

• Sidon (40 km north) – Sea Castle
• Qana (12 km southeast) – Biblical site
• Tyre Coast Nature Reserve (adjacent) – Protected beaches