Sidon Sea Castle: A Crusader Fortress by the Sea
Explore the historic Sidon Sea Castle, a medieval fortress with stunning sea views and a rich Crusader history.
The Sidon Sea Castle, constructed by Crusaders in the 13th century, stands as a prominent historical landmark in Sidon, Lebanon. Located on a small island connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway, this fortress offers a glimpse into the region's rich and tumultuous past.
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
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on uneven stone surfaces.
- Bring Lebanese pounds for the entrance fee, as credit card facilities may not always be available.
- Visit during the late afternoon for the best lighting for photographs.
- Combine your visit with a meal at one of the nearby restaurants overlooking the castle.
Getting There
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Walking
The Sidon Sea Castle is located off the coast of Sidon and is accessible via an 80-meter causeway. From most points in central Sidon, the castle is easily reachable on foot. From the city center or the bus station, walk towards the Mediterranean coast. Follow the main road along the harbor, and you'll see signs pointing towards the Sea Castle. The walk from the main souks takes approximately 10-15 minutes. There are no costs involved in walking to the entrance of the castle.
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Public Transport
If arriving in Sidon by bus from Beirut or other cities, the bus will drop you off in a central area, north of the city center. From there, the Sea Castle is a walkable distance. Follow the main road towards the coast. Alternatively, you can take a 'service' taxi for a short ride to the castle entrance. Service taxis are shared taxis that follow fixed routes and cost around 2,000-5,000 LBP per person. Ensure the driver knows your destination before getting in.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Sidon. A taxi ride from the outskirts of the city to the Sea Castle should cost approximately 5,000-10,000 LBP, but it's always best to negotiate the fare before starting your journey. Ask for 'Qalaat al-Bahr'. There are no additional fees or tolls on the direct route to the castle.
Discover more about Sidon Sea Castle
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Essential places to dine
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Fluka Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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SPECIAL
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