Sidon Sea Castle: A Crusader Fortress by the Sea
Explore the historic Sidon Sea Castle, a 13th-century Crusader fortress offering stunning views and a glimpse into Lebanon's rich past.
The Sidon Sea Castle, constructed by Crusaders in the 13th century, is a historic fortress on a small island connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway. It stands as a testament to Sidon's rich history and strategic importance, offering visitors a glimpse into the past with its towers, walls, and panoramic views.
A brief summary to Sidon Sea Castle
- H98C+V98, Sidon, LB
- +96171317956
- Monday 9 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
- Thursday 9 am-6 pm
- Friday 9 am-6 pm
- Saturday 9 am-6 pm
- Sunday 9 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy better lighting for photography.
- Wear comfortable shoes for climbing the steep steps and exploring the ruins.
- Bring Lebanese pounds for the entrance fee, as credit card facilities may not always be available.
- Combine your visit with a meal at one of the nearby restaurants overlooking the castle.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Old Souks in Sidon, walk along the Corniche towards the sea. The castle is located on a small island connected to the mainland by a short causeway, approximately a 5-10 minute walk from most points in the old city. No costs are associated with walking to the entrance.
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Public Transport
If arriving by bus from Beirut, disembark at the main bus station in Sidon. From there, take a service taxi (shared taxi) towards the city center and ask to be dropped off near the Corniche. The castle is a short walk from the Corniche. The service taxi fare should be around LBP 2,000-5,000.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Sidon. Ask the driver to take you to the Sidon Sea Castle (Qalaat al-Bahr). From most locations within Sidon, the taxi fare should be approximately LBP 10,000-20,000. Ensure the driver uses a meter or agree on a fare before starting the journey.
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Essential places to dine
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