Tyre

File:Tyre banner.jpg Coastline_03 - |Coastline

Tyre (Arabic: Sour صُوْر) is the fourth-largest city in Lebanon. It is particularly interesting for its stunning and clean beaches (unlike those at Sidon) as well as some of the finest examples of Roman architecture in the world. Situated on a peninsula, it is the largest city in the south of the nation after Sidon.

Tyre is the base of the UNIFIL headquarters which operates in the south of the nation, and monitors the border region between Lebanon, Palestine and the occupied territories and Syria. Don't be surprised to see UN troops out and about in this town, which is generally very safe for visitors.

Travel as a Muslim to Tyre

Travel on a Bus in Tyre

The cheapest way of getting into Tyre is by private bus. Large, air-conditioned buses go from Cola Junction, Beirut, throughout the day for roughly $4 and take about 2.5hrs.

Travel by minivan in Tyre

Privately run shuttle vanes also go frequesntly throughout the day and late into the evening from Cola Junction, Beirut and from the bus station in Sidon. They take a variety of routes and will often stop and start throughout the journey to let passengers on and off.

Minibuses that go via the coastal roads are much slower (Beirut to Tyre can take 3-4hrs), but some shuttle vanes will take the motorway route (2.5hrs from Beirut, about 1hr from Sidon). Prices are usually 2-3,000 Lebanese Lira (roughly $1.50-2) from Beirut.

Do check when you get on board how much the price is as tourists will often be charged more than local residents. If you're not sure how much the fare should be, try speaking to someone on the bus - many people speak English and you will very likely find someone to help you out.

By private taxi

There are two ways to get to Tyre via taxi - the first is a simple private hire ($20-30 from Beirut), or the 'service' option where you can share with other people who are travelling in a similar direction ($10 would be reasonable from Beirut to Tyre). The journey will take roughly 2.5hrs from Beirut, depending on any stops that have to be made.

Checkpoint information

A number of military checkpoints operate on the roads between Beirut, Sidon and Tyre. There are also occasionally other checkpoints which are run by Hezbollah soldiers. If you bus or taxi is asked to stop, make sure you have your passport to hand, and take off any sunglasses or hats to ensure proper identification. Generally you will be waved through without any further problems. Do not be alarmed if you are asked why you are travelling.

How to get around in Tyre

Without a doubt the best way to get around Tyre is on foot. The beachfront and primary streets are all within 5-10mins walk from each other. The Al Bass Archaeological site is slightly further away and a taxi may be the easiest option to get there.

Taxis are pretty affordable and some are even comfortable to travel in. Some are the registered yellow taxis that operate throughout the nation, but many are private cars, often in varying states of repaire (from virtually new to over 40 years old in some cases). A rough rule of thumb is that a short ride in a 'service' - or shared taxi - will cost roughly 2,000LL (around $1.50), with longer journeys costing up to 5,000LL (around $3.50). Always check the price before entering the taxi, and check whether it is a taxi (and therefore private and more expensive) or a service (which will stop to pick up other passengers on the way, and is much cheaper).

Traffic is typical Lebanese - if you want to go, you must go regardless of the 'western' way of thinking in the traffic. This means that drivers frequently won't give way unless they absolutely have to, and lanes and road signage are frequently ignored. Of course, do ask your driver to slow down if you don't feel safe.

What to see in Tyre

Roman Hippodrome in Tyre, Lebanon - The well preserved Roman hippodrome Although frequently eclipsed by the grandeur of Beirut and the bustling souq of Sidon, Tyre is a beautiful and enjoyable city in its own right. Its small size and distinctive position in the deep south of the nation mean that most Muslim visitors never get this far. Yet its beautiful beaches, astonishing world legacy listed Roman ruins and fantastic local cuisine make it a worthwhile place to visit.

Al Bass Archaeological Site is by far the most famous attraction, boasting the largest and best-preserved example of a Roman Hippodrome. The impressive site is huge and also encapsulates a large Necropolis (with several hundred excellently maintained sarcophagi), an intact Roman road and aqueduct, and a monumental arch. Situated next to the Al Bass Palestinian Refugee Camp, it is a 10min vehicle ride from the beach.
The Hot Spring Ruins situated in the Christian neighborhood, is another impressive feat of Roman architecture which escaped destruction during recent Israeli settler bombing campaigns.
The lighthouse, situated on the north-western tip of the peninsula is a beautiful and quiet spot, perfect for watching the sun go down.

Al Gamal | - GPS: near the Hot Spring Ruins - This is a rocky beach at the southwestern tip of the peninsula where the ruins of an old Phoenician port can be seen. There is a number of hut restaurants on the rocks where you can enjoy the sun and food. Swimming is delightful in the clear water and there is a spot that seems like an ancient swimming swimmingpool carved in rock, 1 meter deep and some 30 x 20 meters in size.

What to Do

The souq situated next to the Christian neighborhood, is a lively and atmospheric marketplace. Although it does not have the splendour of the large and tourist-driven souq in Sidon, some excellent deals can be had for everything from souvenirs to fresh fish caught that morning.

The beach is known throughout Lebanon as being the cleanest and most beautiful in Lebanon, with families from around the nation flocking there in the summer. During the summer months (May-September) there are a large number of beach cafes which operate from the huts. Prices can be expensive, but it is a perfect spot for sunbathing and enjoying the impressive waves. During the summer and the sea is warm enough to swim in at night, making it a special place. Moreover you can't rent a fishing boat (FLOkA) and take a tour around the seaside of Tyre or you can navigate to the rocky islands (ZEERRE) where you can find amazing spots for diving. Also renting a jetski got be fun, you can find dealers everywhere around the see.

The Christian neighborhood at the Western tip of the peninsula is a higgledy-piggledy area with thin roads and lovely hidden shops. Its certainly worth spending some time walking around this nice little enclave, though do remember that these are peoples' homes and that you shouldn't enter any open doors unless invited.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Tyre

Halal Restaurants in Tyre

Le Phenicien: Fish and Seafood, excellent cuisine, drinks
Skandars: Lebanese and international cuisine, drinks
Al Nabeel's Cake Shop: famous Lebanese speciality cake shop, wonderful and kind staff and some of the most amazing cakes you will ever eat
The Resthouse: Lebanese and international cuisine, drinks
Al Fanar: Lebanese and international cuisine, drinks
Tyros: Fish,, Lebanese and international cuisine, drinks
Baquettos: Fast food

Rest Cafe | port area,al mina beside caritas ☎ +961 70177725 | Opening Hours: 16Appetisers ,Fresh Fish and Seafood, super cuisine, drinks

Next to the port you can find several minimarkets who could sell all kind of none-alcohols. In summer you can experience one of the best sensations by taking a organic juice and a narghile on the beach at AL Jamal seaside or at the sandy side next to rest house hotel where you can find several hut restaurants in addition to the amazing restaurant in the rest house beach. At night you can take a drink at ALbadawe cafe,Nocean,Fanar,Skandar,Tyros and several restaurants found on the corniche side.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Tyre

Tyre - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Tyre, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Tyre. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Tyre and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Tyre. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Tyre. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations inTyre: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Tyre.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Tyre: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Tyre, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Tyre.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Tyre, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Tyre, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Tyre and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Tyre, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Tyre, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Tyre without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Tyre is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Tyre.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Tyre is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Tyre, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Tyre Media: info@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly Hotels

Perhaps the best-known place for visitors to stay is the Resthouse hotel on the beach. The beach and the swimmingpool is exclusively only to the hotel's guests although others can use them too by paying a small fee - this fee is mostly to keep 'unwanted people' off the premises. At the beach you can order drinks, narghile, rent a sun chair or perhaps attend a diving course.

Rest House Tyr Hotel & Resort - GPS: 33.263342, 35.207118 ☎ +961 7 742 000 - From $120 per day
Al Fanar Resort - GPS: 33.275841, 35.193309 ☎ +961 7 741 111 - $50-60 per day - Renovated recently and is a good place to stay in.
Artizan Hotel - Rue Senegal GPS: 33.271617, 35.202937 From $40 - Second floor bed and breakfast and is popular with local residents and visitors alike. The reasonable rates and air-conditioned rooms, combined with stunning vistas onto the Mediterranean, make it one of the best value places to stay in the city.

News & References Tyre

Explore more Halal friendly Destinations from Tyre

The main pickup point for shuttle vanes to Sidon and Beirut is the bustling Al Bass roundabout, just outside the Al Bass Palestinian Refugee Camp. A number of agents operate in this area and will try to get you on their shuttle van before you go on another. Be assertive with them - ask their destination and the price in advance. Keep a hold of your luggage - a common trick is for them to grab your luggage and stow it on the shuttle van before you get a chance to complain. However, don't worry too much - the negotiation is all part of the fun.