Overview
Tyre is a slower, more relaxed alternative to Beirut and Sidon, offering Lebanon's cleanest and most beautiful beaches alongside some of the finest Roman ruins outside Rome. The city sits on a peninsula in South Lebanon and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984, with the world's best-preserved Roman Hippodrome as its crown jewel.
Architecture · Beach · Day Trips · History · Museums
Before you go
Culture
Tyre has both Christian and Muslim communities. The Christian district at the peninsula's tip has narrow residential streets—observe local customs and don't enter homes uninvited.
Money
Lebanese Lira (LL) is the local currency. Some hotels quote in USD. ATMs are available but may have limits—carry some cash for smaller establishments.
Safety
UNIFIL presence keeps Tyre relatively stable. Avoid photographing military installations. Touts near Al Bass roundabout may be aggressive—negotiate prices before boarding transport.
Transport
Foot is best for the compact city center. Shared service taxis cost around 2,000 LL. Minibuses to Sidon and Beirut depart from Al Bass roundabout.
Weather
Best beach weather May-September. Summers are hot with sea warm enough for night swimming. Archaeological sites are pleasant in spring and autumn.