Tyre (Arabic: Sour صُوْر) is the fourth-largest city in Lebanon. It is particularly noteworthy for its stunning and clean beaches (unlike those at Sidon) as well as some of the finest examples of Roman architecture in the world. Situated on a peninsula, it is the largest city in the south of the country after Sidon.
Tyre is the base of the UNIFIL headquarters which operates in the south of the country, and monitors the border region between Lebanon, Israel and the occupied territories and Syria. Don't be surprised to see UN troops out and about in this town, which is generally very safe for visitors.
Although frequently eclipsed by the grandeur of Beirut and the bustling souq of Sidon, Tyre is a beautiful and enjoyable city in its own right. Its small size and distinctive position in the deep south of the country mean that most tourists never get this far. Yet its beautiful beaches, astonishing world heritage listed Roman ruins and fantastic local cuisine make it a worthwhile place to visit.
- Al Bass Archaeological Site is by far the most famous attraction, boasting the largest and best-preserved example of a Roman Hippodrome. The impressive site is huge and also encapsulates a large Necropolis (with several hundred well-preserved sarcophagi), an intact Roman road and aqueduct, and a monumental arch. Situated next to the Al Bass Palestinian Refugee Camp, it is a 10min car ride from the beach.
- The Hot Spring Ruins situated in the Christian district, is another impressive feat of Roman architecture which escaped destruction during recent Israeli bombing campaigns.
- The lighthouse, situated on the north-western tip of the peninsula is a beautiful and quiet spot, perfect for watching the sun go down.
- Al Gamal. This is a rocky beach at the southwestern tip of the peninsula where the ruins of an old Phoenician port can be seen. There is a number of hut restaurants on the rocks where you can enjoy the sun and food. Swimming is delightful in the clear water and there is a spot that seems like an ancient swimming pool carved in rock, 1 meter deep and some 30 x 20 meters in size.
Al Bass Archaeological Site is by far the most famous attraction, boasting the largest and best-preserved example of a Roman Hippodrome. The impressive site is huge and also encapsulates a large Necropolis (with several hundred well-preserved sarcophagi), an intact Roman road and aqueduct, and a monumental arch. Situated next to the Al Bass Palestinian Refugee Camp, it is a 10min car ride from the beach.
The Hot Spring Ruins situated in the Christian district, is another impressive feat of Roman architecture which escaped destruction during recent Israeli bombing campaigns.
The lighthouse, situated on the north-western tip of the peninsula is a beautiful and quiet spot, perfect for watching the sun go down.
Al Gamal. This is a rocky beach at the southwestern tip of the peninsula where the ruins of an old Phoenician port can be seen. There is a number of hut restaurants on the rocks where you can enjoy the sun and food. Swimming is delightful in the clear water and there is a spot that seems like an ancient swimming pool carved in rock, 1 meter deep and some 30 x 20 meters in size.
The souq situated next to the Christian district, is a lively and atmospheric marketplace. Although it does not have the splendour of the large and tourist-driven souq in Sidon, some excellent deals can be had for everything from souvenirs to fresh fish caught that morning.
The beach is known throughout Lebanon as being the cleanest and most beautiful in Lebanon, with families from around the country flocking there in the summer. During the summer months (May-September) there are a large number of beach cafes which operate from the huts. Prices can be expensive, but it is a perfect spot for sunbathing and enjoying the impressive waves. During the summer, the sea is warm enough to swim in at night, making it a special place. Moreover you can't rent a fishing boat (FLOkA) and take a tour around the seaside of Tyre or you can navigate to the rocky islands (ZEERRE) where you can find amazing spots for diving. Also renting a jetski got be fun, you can find dealers everywhere around the see.
The Christian district at the Western tip of the peninsula is a higgledy-piggledy area with thin roads and lovely hidden shops. Its certainly worth spending some time walking around this nice little enclave, though do remember that these are peoples' homes and that you shouldn't enter any open doors unless invited.
- Le Phenicien: Fish and Sea Food, excellent cuisine, beer, wine liquors
- Skandars: Lebanese and international cuisine, beer, wine liquors
- Al Nabeel's Cake Shop: famous Lebanese speciality cake shop, wonderful and kind staff and some of the most amazing cakes you will ever eat
- The Resthouse: Lebanese and international cuisine, beer, wine liquors
- Al Fanar: Lebanese and international cuisine, beer, wine liquors
- Tyros: Fish,, Lebanese and international cuisine, beer, wine liquors
- Baquettos: Fast food
- Rest Cafe, port area,al mina (beside caritas, +961 70177725. 16. Appetisers,Fresh Fish and Sea Food, super cuisine, beer, wine liquors
Rest Cafe, port area,al mina (beside caritas, +961 70177725. 16. Appetisers,Fresh Fish and Sea Food, super cuisine, beer, wine liquors
Next to the port you can find several minimarkets who could sell all kind of alcohols. In summer you can experience one of the best sensations by taking a beer and a narghile on the beach at AL Jamal sea side or at the sandy side next to rest house hotel where you can find several hut restaurants in addition to the amazing bar in the rest house beach. At night you can take a drink at ALbadawe cafe,Nocean,Fanar,Skandar,Tyros and several restaurant found on the corniche side.
The main pickup point for minibuses to Sidon and Beirut is the bustling Al Bass roundabout, just outside the Al Bass Palestinian Refugee Camp. A number of touts operate in this area and will try to get you on their minibus before you go on another. Be assertive with them - ask their destination and the price in advance. Keep a hold of your luggage - a common trick is for them to grab your luggage and stow it on the minibus before you get a chance to complain. However, don't worry too much - the negotiation is all part of the fun.