Hammam el-Sheikh — Attraction in Sidon

During summer/warmer months, the hammam is less frequented by most people, hence it might give you the impression that it’s closed or nothing is happening. Yet, you should just enter and ask to really know. ☝️ I went there last week and was initially unsure whether it is operating - it is! Due to the economic situation and insane prices, the floor was not heated as it usually is like in winter f.e (oil prices are too high to be profitable during summer months). Everything else, including a wash, massage and rub is of course available. 🧼💆 I loved it. The guy working there is super nice and passionate about his job. Keep in mind, this is (as far as I know) the last functioning traditional Hammam in all of Lebanon, it‘s several hundred years old. You can enjoy a bath like in Ottoman times. 🧺🛀🏾 It cost 70.000-90.000LL (October 2021) and is worth every lira. Don‘t be fooled by other reviews! I will come...

The Hammam is functioning! It's wonderful!

You need to ask around to find out exactly when it is open and for what gender. We (m+f) went in the evening at 8pm, which is normally men's time, and they said to come back at 12 the next day. We went back and had a wash and a massage from the guy working there. He didn't speak much English but he took us through the whole process very easily and kindly, it was absolutely wonderful. At the end he asked us for $10 each but we gave him $15.

We asked around and this is the only working Hammam of its kind in South Lebanon. There are rumours of another one in Tripoli.

Cannot recommend...

I was very confused with this Hammam as when I entered it, a man was sleeping on one of the cushions and has adjusted his posture as soon as my friend and I came in. He has his stuff all around the place and has all his kitchen utensils set up. I think this man has been living in this Hammam for quite some time. I don’t understand how a historical site isn’t maintained and has become now...