🏘️ Tripoli, Lebanon – The Soul of the North

A medieval city bursting with markets, mosques, and Middle Eastern magic

 

Perfect for culture seekers, architecture lovers, and food adventurers

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🧭 Why Visit Tripoli?

Welcome to Tripoli (Trablous) – Lebanon’s second-largest city and perhaps its most authentic and historic. Unlike glitzy Beirut, Tripoli feels untouched by time: a city where Ottoman hammams, Mamluk mosques, and colorful souks fill a maze of narrow alleys. It’s chaotic, beautiful, and unforgettable.

Whether you’re wandering centuries-old streets or tasting the best Arabic sweets in the country, Tripoli is a raw cultural gem.

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🌟 Top Things to Do in Tripoli

🕌 1. Old City & Mamluk Architecture

Explore one of the largest and best-preserved medieval Mamluk cities in the world. Highlights include:

• Al-Mansouri Great Mosque (1294)

• Khan al-Khayyatin (Tailors’ Caravanserai)

• Hammam al-Abed & Hammam al-Nouri – ancient public bathhouses

• Al-Qartawiyya Madrasa – a stunning piece of Islamic design

🛍 2. Tripoli’s Souks (Markets)

Get lost in twisting alleyways filled with spices, soap, textiles, silver, and antiques. Unlike Beirut, the prices are low and the experience is real. Don’t miss:

• Souk al-Attarin (Spice Market)

• Souk al-Saboun (Soap Market) – famous for handmade olive oil soap

🏰 3. Citadel of Raymond de Saint-Gilles (Tripoli Castle)

Towering over the city, this 12th-century Crusader fortress offers sweeping views and layers of history from Crusader, Mamluk, and Ottoman times.

🍰 4. Taste Legendary Tripolitan Sweets

Tripoli is the dessert capital of Lebanon! Try:

• Znoud el-sit (cream-filled pastry)

• Halawat al-jibn (sweet cheese rolls)

• Knafeh from Abou Elias or Hallab 1881

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📸 Best Photo Spots

• 📷 From the castle rooftop at sunset

• 📷 Inside the old souks – especially near the spice stalls

• 📷 The arched Mamluk mosques with stone calligraphy

• 📷 The vibrant Al Mina fishing port

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🛶 Bonus: Tripoli’s Coast – Al Mina District

Just 10 minutes from the old city, Al Mina offers:

• 🌊 Seaside cafés and a relaxing harbor atmosphere

• 🏝 Palm Islands Nature Reserve – a protected marine ecosystem (boat access in summer)

• 🐟 Fresh fish restaurants with unbeatable sunset views

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🍽 Where to Eat in Tripoli

• Akra Restaurant – Iconic spot for hummus, foul, and manakish

• Hallab 1881 – The best traditional sweets in Lebanon

• Le Marin (Al Mina) – Seaside seafood dining

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🏨 Where to Stay

• Via Mina Hotel – Boutique charm in the coastal district

• Quality Inn Tripoli – Comfortable with city views

• Dhour El Mina guesthouses – Cozy, local stays near the sea

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🚘 How to Get There

• 📍 Location: 85 km north of Beirut

• 🚗 By car: Approx. 1.5 hours from Beirut

• 🚌 Buses and minibuses leave regularly from Charles Helou station

• 🚖 Private drivers and ride apps also available

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🕰 Best Time to Visit