Discover the rich historical tapestry of Lebanon on a guided small-group tour that takes you on an immersive journey through the ancient cities of Sidon, Tyre, and Maghdouche. This expertly curated experience showcases the Phoenician, Roman, Crusader, and Ottoman influences that have shaped these remarkable destinations, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tyre. Indulge in a delectable lunch at a local restaurant, and let the knowledgeable guides provide insightful commentary that brings the past to life. With comfortable transportation and a personalized approach, this tour promises to captivate your senses and leave you eager to uncover more of Lebanon’s fascinating heritage.
This experience made our list of the 12 Best Lunch Experiences In Beirut.
Good To Know
- A guided small-group tour exploring ancient cities in Lebanon, including UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tyre and the Basilica of Our Lady in Maghdouche.
- Opportunity to experience Phoenician, Roman, Crusader, and Ottoman influences through well-preserved historical sites and ruins.
- Includes a local Lebanese lunch and bottled water, with hotel transfers and air-conditioned transportation provided.
- Led by knowledgeable local guides offering in-depth commentary and insights into the visited sites.
- Maximum group size of 20 travelers for a personalized and immersive experience, with positive reviews from previous participants.
Tour Overview and Highlights
The guided small-group tour to Sidon, Tyre, and Maghdouche offers an opportunity to explore the ancient cities of Lebanon, showcasing their Phoenician, Roman, Crusader, and Ottoman remains.
Highlights include visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tyre, where travelers can witness the hippodrome and ancient city.
The tour also includes a stop at the Basilica of Our Lady of Mantara, believed by some Christians to be where Mary waited for Jesus.
Lunch at a local Lebanese restaurant and bottled water are provided, ensuring a comfortable and authentic experience.
The tour is led by a knowledgeable local guide and includes hotel transfers and air-conditioned transportation.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Beirut.
Exploring Ancient Cities
Exploring the ancient cities of Sidon, Tyre, and Maghdouche provides a unique window into Lebanon’s rich history.
The Phoenician, Roman, Crusader, and Ottoman remains showcase the diverse cultural influences that have shaped these sites over centuries.
The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tyre is particularly impressive, with its well-preserved hippodrome and ancient city center.
Visitors can also pay tribute at the Basilica of Our Lady of Mantara, believed by some Christians to be where Mary waited for Jesus.
With knowledgeable local guides leading the way, travelers can delve deep into the fascinating past of these ancient cities.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
One of the highlights of the guided tour is the visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tyre. This ancient Phoenician city boasts a rich historical legacy, with remains from various empires that have occupied the region over the centuries. Visitors can explore the impressive hippodrome, once the site of chariot races, as well as the ruins of the ancient city that showcase Tyre’s past grandeur. The tour also includes stops at other significant sites within Tyre, providing a comprehensive understanding of this captivating World Heritage destination.
Site | Description | Significance |
---|---|---|
Hippodrome | Ancient chariot racing stadium | Impressive Phoenician/Roman ruins |
Ancient City | Remnants of the old Phoenician city | Showcase of Tyre’s historical legacy |
Other Sites | Various archaeological sites | Provide holistic understanding of Tyre |
Basilica of Our Lady
Another highlight of the tour is the visit to the Basilica of Our Lady of Mantara in Maghdouche.
The basilica is believed by some Christians to be the site where the Virgin Mary waited for Jesus during his preaching in the region. Visitors can pay their respects at the shrine and explore the peaceful surroundings.
The basilica features a mix of architectural styles, including Byzantine and Mamluk influences. It’s an important pilgrimage site for local Christians and offers a glimpse into the region’s rich religious heritage.
The visit to the basilica provides a meaningful cultural and spiritual experience for participants on the small-group tour.
Inclusions and Logistics
The tour package includes hotel transfers from all destinations in Beirut, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day’s activities.
Travelers will travel in an air-conditioned vehicle for maximum comfort during the tour. A local guide and tour leader are included, providing expert commentary and insights throughout the experience.
Entry and admission fees to the historical sites are also covered, allowing guests to fully enjoy the ancient cities of Sidon, Tyre, and Maghdouche.
While gratuities aren’t included, the maximum group size is limited to 20 travelers, ensuring a personalized and intimate tour.
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Tour Details and Pricing
The tour departs at 8:30 AM, allowing travelers to make the most of their day exploring the ancient cities of Sidon, Tyre, and Maghdouche.
Priced from $65.00, with a lowest price guarantee, this guided small-group tour offers excellent value.
Travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, and they’ll receive confirmation at the time of booking.
The tour accommodates a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience.
While gratuities aren’t included, the tour covers hotel transfers, an air-conditioned vehicle, a local guide, and admission to the historical sites.
Traveler Reviews and Feedback
Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the guided tour, with 36 reviews earning a remarkable 5.0 rating and 100% recommendation.
Positive feedback highlights the quality of the guide and the overall experience provided. However, some travelers noted that certain sites, like the old souk of Tyre and the soap museum, were missed on the itinerary.
Notably, travelers appreciated the lack of pressure to shop at tourist stops, which can often detract from the culture.
The tour operator, Lebanon Tours & Travels, is known for its high-quality offerings in Beirut, and the owner’s engagement ensures clear expectations and memorable experiences for travelers.
Tour Operator Information
Lebanon Tours & Travels, the tour operator behind this guided excursion, is known for delivering high-quality tours in Beirut. The owner actively engages to ensure travelers have clear expectations and experiences.
The guides are proficient in English and knowledgeable about the sites visited. Travelers expressed satisfaction with the organization, lunch quality, and overall experience.
Here’s what makes this tour operator stand out:
- Commitment to customer satisfaction
- Knowledgeable and engaging guides
- Thoughtful itinerary planning
- Consistently positive traveler reviews
This tour operator’s dedication to providing an exceptional experience is evident in the positive feedback from past participants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Tour Be Customized to Suit Individual Interests?
The tour can likely be customized to suit individual interests. Travelers should inquire with the tour operator about modifying the itinerary or focusing on specific sites of interest. The operator give you a personalized experience within the tour’s scope.
What Is the Average Group Size for the Tour?
The tour has a maximum group size of 20 travelers, allowing for an intimate and personalized experience. The small group size enables the guide to provide more attention and flexibility to meet the individual needs of participants.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?
There are no student or senior discounts explicitly mentioned for this tour. However, the tour operator may offer such discounts. Travelers should inquire about any available discounts when booking the tour.
Can the Tour Be Booked in Other Languages Besides English?
The tour can be booked in other languages besides English. The company’s guides are proficient in multiple languages and can accommodate tour participants who prefer to experience the sites in their native tongue.
How Does the Tour Operator Handle Any Special Dietary Requirements?
The tour operator accommodates special dietary requirements. They work with the local restaurant to provide vegetarian, halal, or other suitable meal options for travelers who request them when booking the tour.
The Sum Up
This guided small-group tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Lebanon’s captivating history. Visitors can explore the ancient cities of Sidon, Tyre, and Maghdouche, each showcasing a diverse cultural heritage. The highlight is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tyre, featuring a remarkable hippodrome. With comfortable transportation, knowledgeable guides, and a delicious local lunch, this tour provides a personalized and enriching experience for those seeking to uncover Lebanon’s rich past.
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