South Lebanon Travel Guide

Plan your trip to South Lebanon with our travel guide, featuring top attractions, accommodations, transportation options, and cultural tips.


Introduction to South Lebanon

South Lebanon, also known as “Al-Janub” in Arabic, is a region located in the southern part of Lebanon, bordering Israel in the south and the Mediterranean Sea in the west. This region is known for its diverse landscape, with mountains, valleys, coastal plains, and sandy beaches, as well as its rich history and culture.

South Lebanon is home to numerous ancient ruins, including some of the best-preserved Roman and Phoenician sites in the world. It is also known for its delicious cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and friendly locals. Whether you’re interested in history, food, or outdoor adventures, South Lebanon has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in South Lebanon

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Tyre (Sour)

Tyre is an ancient Phoenician city that dates back to the 3rd millennium BCE. The city was later conquered by Alexander the Great and became an important trading center during the Roman era. Today, Tyre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important cultural attractions in Lebanon.

Visitors can explore the ruins of ancient Tyre, including the impressive Roman Hippodrome, the Al Mina archaeological site, and the Tyre Necropolis. The Tyre National Museum is also a must-visit attraction for history buffs, featuring artifacts from the Phoenician, Greek, Roman, and Ottoman periods.

Sidon (Saida)

Sidon is another ancient Phoenician city that is now a major cultural and historical center in Lebanon. The city is known for its impressive Sea Castle, built by the Crusaders in the 13th century, as well as its historic Old Town and souk (marketplace).

Visitors can also explore the Sidon Sea Castle Museum, which features exhibits on the city’s history and culture, and the Khan al-Franj, a beautifully preserved 17th-century caravanserai. The Phoenician Temple of Eshmun, located just outside Sidon, is also worth a visit for its well-preserved ruins and beautiful gardens.

Natural Attractions of South Lebanon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The Cedars of Barouk

The Cedars of Barouk is a natural reserve located in the Barouk Mountains of South Lebanon. The reserve is home to the largest forest of Cedars in Lebanon, with some trees estimated to be over 2,000 years old. Visitors can explore the reserve on foot or on horseback, and enjoy scenic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Qadisha Valley

The Qadisha Valley, also known as the Holy Valley, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the North Lebanon Governorate. The valley is known for its natural beauty, including steep cliffs, deep valleys, and rushing rivers. Visitors can hike or bike through the valley, exploring the many historic churches and monasteries that are hidden in the rugged terrain.

Hiking/Biking Routes of South Lebanon

South Lebanon is a hiker’s paradise, with numerous trails and routes that offer breathtaking views of the landscape. The following are some of the best hiking and biking routes in the region:

The Lebanon Mountain Trail

The Lebanon Mountain Trail is a long-distance hiking trail that spans over 470 km, passing through some of the most scenic regions of Lebanon, including South Lebanon. The trail is divided into 27 sections, each offering a unique hiking experience.

Chouf Biosphere Reserve

The Chouf Biosphere Reserve is a natural reserve located in the Chouf Mountains of South Lebanon. The reserve is home to several hiking trails, ranging from easy to difficult, that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Al Shouf Cedar Nature Reserve

The Al Shouf Cedar Nature Reserve is another natural reserve located in the Shouf Mountains of South Lebanon. The reserve has several hiking trails, including the famous Cedar Forest Trail, which offers a unique glimpse into the ancient cedar forest that once covered much of Lebanon.

Best Things to Do in South Lebanon: Activities and Tours

Wine Tasting Tour

Lebanon is known for its delicious wines, and South Lebanon is home to several famous wineries. Visitors can take a wine tasting tour of the region, sampling some of the best wines and learning about the local winemaking process.

Beach Day

South Lebanon has several beautiful beaches, including the famous Tyre Beach and the picturesque Jieh Beach. Visitors can soak up the sun, swim in the clear waters, and enjoy delicious fresh seafood at one of the many beachside restaurants.

Nightlife

South Lebanon has a vibrant nightlife scene, with several bars, clubs, and restaurants that cater to visitors and locals alike. Visitors can enjoy live music, dancing, and delicious Lebanese cuisine late into the night.

Week-Long Itinerary for South Lebanon

Day 1: Explore Tyre and visit the Tyre National Museum Day 2: Hike the Chouf Biosphere Reserve and visit the Beiteddine Palace Day 3: Relax on Tyre Beach and enjoy fresh seafood Day 4: Take a wine tasting tour of the region Day 5: Visit Sidon and explore the Old Town and souk Day 6: Hike the Al Shouf Cedar Nature Reserve Day 7: Enjoy the nightlife in Beirut

Food and Drink Scene of South Lebanon

Must-Try Dishes

Kibbeh Nayyeh

Kibbeh Nayyeh is a popular Lebanese dish made from raw lamb or beef that is minced and mixed with bulgur and spices.

Fattoush

Fattoush is a Lebanese salad made from a mix of fresh vegetables, including cucumber, tomato, and radish, and topped with crunchy fried pita bread.

Shawarma

Shawarma is a Middle Eastern dish made from grilled meat that is shaved off a rotating spit and served in a wrap or pita bread, along with vegetables and sauces.

Local Beverages

Arak

Arak is a traditional Lebanese alcoholic drink that is made from aniseed and distilled grape or plum juice. It is typically served mixed with water and ice.

Lebanese Wine

Lebanese wine is famous around the world for its unique taste and quality. Some of the best wineries in South Lebanon include Château Ksara, Château Musar, and Château Saint Thomas.

Where to Stay in South Lebanon: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

South Lebanon has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and tastes. Some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in the region include:

Le Commodore Hotel, Beirut

Le Commodore Hotel is a luxurious hotel located in the heart of Beirut, with spacious rooms and suites, a rooftop pool, and stunning views of the city.

Beit El Nessim Guesthouse, Tyre

Beit El Nessim Guesthouse is a beautiful guesthouse located in the heart of Tyre’s historic old town, with elegant rooms and a charming rooftop terrace.

Hostel Beirut

Hostel Beirut is a modern and affordable hostel located in the trendy Gemmayze neighborhood of Beirut, with comfortable dorms and private rooms.

What to Buy in South Lebanon: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Lebanese Soap

Lebanese soap is famous for its high quality and unique fragrances, made from natural ingredients like olive oil and sea salt.

Handicrafts

South Lebanon has a rich tradition of handicrafts, including handmade carpets, pottery, and ceramics.

Olive Oil

Lebanese olive oil is widely regarded as some of the best in the world, and makes for a great souvenir or gift to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of South Lebanon

South Lebanon has a rich cultural heritage, with a mix of Arab, Phoenician, Roman, and Ottoman influences. Visitors are advised to dress modestly and respectfully in public, particularly in religious sites.

Hospitality is a key part of Lebanese culture, and visitors can expect to be warmly welcomed by locals. It is customary to bring a small gift, such as flowers or sweets, when visiting someone’s home.

Best Time to Visit South Lebanon

The best time to visit South Lebanon is in the spring (April to May) and fall (September to November), when the weather is mild and comfortable. Summer can be hot and humid, and winter can be rainy and chilly.

Do’s and Don’ts of South Lebanon

Do:

  • Dress modestly and respectfully in public, particularly in religious sites.
  • Try the local cuisine, including the delicious Lebanese meze.
  • Explore the region’s rich history and culture at its many museums and historical sites.
  • Visit the beautiful beaches and enjoy the stunning natural scenery.

Don’t:

  • Drink tap water.
  • Take photographs of people without their permission.
  • Engage in overt public displays of affection.

Safety and Health

Safety in South Lebanon

South Lebanon is generally safe for visitors, but travelers are advised to take normal precautions. It is advisable to avoid demonstrations and political rallies, particularly in Beirut and other major cities.

Visitors should also be aware of the potential for sectarian tensions in the region, particularly along the border with Israel.

Health in South Lebanon

Visitors should be up-to-date on routine vaccinations before traveling to Lebanon. It is also advisable to get vaccinated for hepatitis A and B, and to take precaution against mosquito bites to prevent diseases like Zika and malaria.

It is recommended to purchase travel medical insurance before your trip, as medical costs in Lebanon can be expensive.

Getting to South Lebanon: Transportation Options and Logistics

South Lebanon can be easily reached by both air and land. Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport is the main airport in Lebanon, located in the capital city of Beirut. From there, visitors can take a taxi or public transportation to South Lebanon.

There are also several bus stations in Beirut that offer regular service to South Lebanon cities like Tyre and Sidon. Taxis and private car rentals are also available.

How to Get Around in South Lebanon

The best way to get around South Lebanon is by car or taxi. Public transportation is available, but can be crowded and unreliable.

Visitors are advised to hire a driver or take a taxi for longer trips, particularly if they are not familiar with the area.

Where to Go Next from South Lebanon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Beirut

Beirut is the capital city of Lebanon, located less than an hour’s drive north of South Lebanon. The city is a cultural and historical hub, with many museums, galleries, and historic sites.

Baalbek

Baalbek is an ancient city located in the Bekaa Valley of Lebanon, known for its impressive Roman ruins, including the Temple of Jupiter and the Temple of Bacchus.

Byblos

Byblos is an ancient Phoenician city located on the coast of Lebanon, known for its well-preserved ruins and charming Old Town.

Conclusion

South Lebanon is an exciting and diverse region that offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor adventures, or delicious cuisine, South Lebanon has plenty to offer. With its stunning scenery, warm hospitality, and rich cultural heritage, a trip to South Lebanon is sure to be an unforgettable experience.



    Jezzine
    Sidon