Tyre (or Sour) is one of the oldest cities in the world, a UNESCO world heritage site, and a must-visit destination in South Lebanon! It’s known for its golden sand beach, rich history, delicious food, and much more!
In this post, we’ll show you our top things to do in Tyre, including the best attractions, restaurants, and getaways, so let’s go!
#1 Spend the day at Tyre Public beach
Tyre is known for its public beach, which is considered one of the biggest and cleanest in Lebanon! It’s one of the best spots to visit during Summer. You can spend your day by the sandy shore, swim in the clear water, and fuel up with some vitamin-sea.
#2 take a walk in Tyre’s Colorful alleyways
Head to the Old town of Tyre, and specifically to the Christian Quarter (located right next to the harbor). Stroll around the colorful alleyways, take some pictures and enjoy the authentic vibe of the city.
#3 Explore The city’s historical side
Tyre has 2 main archeological sites where you can witness the city’s rich history:
- The Al Bass Site: (On Google Maps: Ruins of Tyre – Necropolis). It contains a vast cemetery with religious sculptures, a monumental gate, and the Hippodrome (stadium for horse races) which is one of the greatest historical achievements for sports.
- The City Site: (On Google Maps: Tyre World Heritage Site) which was the center of ancient Tyre. It contains the mosaic street as well as many structures that reflected the town’s commercial, religious and political activities. (It is located 5 minutes away from the first site).
#4 Go Diving with your friends
Other than the beach, streets, and ruins, Tyre is worth exploring underwater! Lebanon Diving Center will provide you with a unique diving experience to explore the big diversity of animals and plants in the sea. And if you’re lucky enough, you’ll witness the fascinating sea turtles that are well preserved in this part of Lebanon.
#5 Try The Fatayel sandwich at mahfouz
You can’t be in Tyre without trying the famous meat Fatayil sandwich at Mahfouz. This authentic spot is one of the oldest in town (since 1952) and attracts visitors from all over South Lebanon every day starting at 7:00 AM.
Further Reading: Take a look at our guide for the best street food places in Lebanon.
#6 Enjoy a Visit To Dar Alma
Dar Alma is one of Tyre’s most charming places, and a must-visit spot whenever you’re in the area. You can either stay the night in one of their cozy rooms or just have lunch in their restaurant right by the sea.
P.S. They also have private beach access and a sun deck, as well as water activities.
#7 Have a seafood meal at Le Phénicien
Le Phénicien is a well-known restaurant in Tyre, located right by the harbor. It’s your go-to place if you’re craving a delicious seafood meal with a view!
#8 Have lunch on a boat
Would you be interested in having lunch on a boat? If yes, then head to Elissar Marine in Tyre’s harbor for a unique dining experience, where you’ll enjoy a tasty meal above the water. (They serve seafood and Lebanese dishes).
P.S. They also have a motel inside the boat if you’re looking to stay the night.
#9 Spend the day at Al fanar
Al Fanar is a traditional Lebanese house that was turned into a hotel & restaurant, with a stunning location right by the sea. It’s a popular destination to visit in Sour, where you can eat, drink, swim, catch the sunset, and sleep over, all in one place.
#10 Chill with friends at tavolino
Located in a cozy house in the Old city of Tyre, Tavolino is a great spot for drinks and bites. They serve a variety of dishes including pizzas, pasta, seafood, meat & desserts. Also, don’t forget to try their delicious cocktails!
#11 Catch the Sunset from El Boutique Hotel
The sunset in Sour is not to be missed, and the best spot to enjoy it is from the rooftop of El Boutique Hotel! Have a drink with your loved one and enjoy the lovely ambiance, great music, and beautiful views of the Meditteranean sea.
Further Reading: Tap here for 30 sunset spots to visit in Lebanon.
#12 Grab a drink at Ïla Restobar
Here’s another amazing place for a night out with friends, right next to the harbor. And if you’re in the mood to party, try to make it on a Saturday night for the best experience!
#13 Visit Turquoise Beach Resort
If you prefer to spend the day in a resort rather than the public beach, then Turquoise is the perfect destination for you! You’ll find a giant pool, spacious gardens, private pools, a waterpark, bungalows, a restaurant, and much more. It’s the ideal choice for families as well as couples!
#14 Take a 15 minutes ride to qana
Located 10 Km southwest of Tyre, Qana has a big religious importance, as it’s the town where Jesus performed his first miracle of turning water into wine.
Visit Qana Holy Grotto, which is the place where the miracle is believed to have taken place, and it’s also the place where Jesus took refuge at a later stage (you’ll have to walk a small trail to reach the holy cave).
#15 Spend the night in Tyre
Here are some great places where you can spend the night in Tyre!
- Dar Alma: A charming boutique hotel by the sea with 11 rooms available.
- Dar Camelia: An old Lebanese house turned into a boutique hotel with 8 rooms available.
- Glimzi Guesthouse: 7 fully equipped apartments that fit up to 4 people each.
- Florina’s Guesthouse: A fully furnished guesthouse with 6 rooms available.
- El Boutique Hotel: A fancy hotel with a restaurant, rooftop, and 14 rooms available.
- Les Ateliers de Tyr: A unique sustainable village and guesthouses with refined Mediterranean cuisine (10 minutes away from Tyre’s old town).
So many things to do in Tyre, and so many beautiful places to explore! Hopefully, this guide will help you plan your next trip to Sour.
What are your favorite places to visit in Tyre? Leave us a comment right below.
If you liked this post, take a look at our Chouf Travel Guide, for another amazing destination in Lebanon.
