🇱🇧 Your Authentic 4-Day Lebanon Itinerary

After arriving at Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport and checking into your hotel, begin your Lebanese adventure in Downtown Beirut. A walking tour here reveals a fascinating story of destruction and rebirth. Admire the beautifully restored Ottoman and French Mandate-era buildings, the modern Beirut Souks, and significant landmarks like the Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque with its stunning blue domes standing beside the Saint George Maronite Cathedral. This area showcases the city’s resilience and its blend of faiths and histories. Don’t miss the ancient Roman Baths, a quiet archaeological park in the midst of the modern city.

In the late afternoon, make your way to the Corniche, Beirut’s famous seaside promenade. This is where the city comes to relax, walk, and socialize. Stroll along the waterfront, heading towards the iconic Raouché, or Pigeon Rocks, two majestic natural rock formations rising from the sea. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset. For the evening, dive into the vibrant nightlife and culinary scene of the Gemmayze or Mar Mikhael neighborhoods. These adjacent districts are famous for their lively streets lined with an endless array of excellent restaurants, cozy pubs, and trendy bars, offering a perfect taste of Beirut’s legendary ‘joie de vivre’.

For an iconic luxury stay, the InterContinental Phoenicia Beirut is a landmark of Lebanese hospitality with grand interiors and a fantastic location near Zaitunay Bay. A truly unique and exquisite boutique option is the Albergo Hotel in the elegant Achrafieh district, offering individually decorated suites that feel like a private mansion.

For a stylish and modern hotel in the heart of the action, the O Monot Boutique Hotel Beirut is an excellent choice, with a rooftop pool and easy access to Downtown and Gemmayze. A great mid-range option known for its comfort and central location in the lively Hamra district is the Gefinor Rotana – Beirut. These hotels provide a superb base for your Beirut explorations.

Due to Lebanon’s ongoing economic situation, it is essential to bring US Dollars in cash for your trip. While the official currency is the Lebanese Pound (LBP), USD is widely accepted and often preferred for all transactions, from hotels and tours to restaurants and shops. Credit card acceptance can be unreliable, and ATM withdrawals are complicated and may give you a very poor exchange rate. Arriving with enough cash in USD for your entire trip is the most practical and stress-free approach.

When traveling from the airport to your hotel, it is best to use a pre-booked, reputable taxi service or a ride-hailing app like Uber or Bolt. This will ensure a fair and transparent price. Within Beirut, ride-hailing apps are also the most convenient way to get around for longer distances, as they remove the need for haggling with regular taxi drivers. For shorter distances, walking is the best way to explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods.

Beirut is a cosmopolitan and fashion-conscious city with a generally liberal attitude towards dress. For a day of exploring, smart-casual attire is perfect. Lightweight trousers, stylish jeans, or a skirt paired with a t-shirt or blouse will have you fitting right in. In the hot and humid summer months, loose-fitting, natural fabrics like linen and cotton are ideal. Comfortable yet stylish walking shoes are a must, as you will want to explore the charming streets of Gemmayze and the seaside Corniche on foot.

While the city is liberal, it’s always respectful to dress modestly when visiting religious sites like the Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque. This means having your shoulders and knees covered. Carrying a light scarf or shawl is a great idea for this purpose. For the evening, Beirutis love to dress up. If you are planning to visit an upscale restaurant or a trendy bar in Gemmayze or Zaitunay Bay, a chic dress or a smart shirt and trousers will be perfectly appropriate.

Beirut is a culinary paradise. For a fantastic introduction to traditional Lebanese mezze, head to T-Marbouta in the Hamra district. It’s a cozy and popular spot known for its delicious and authentic home-style dishes. For a quick, cheap, and iconic street food experience, a shawarma sandwich from Barbar is a must-try. This legendary spot has been serving up some of the city’s best fast food for decades.

For a memorable dinner, dive into the vibrant atmosphere of Gemmayze or Mar Mikhael. Le Chef in Gemmayze is a beloved, no-frills institution serving classic Lebanese daily dishes in a friendly, bustling setting. In Mar Mikhael, you’ll find a huge variety of more modern and international options. Alternatively, for an elegant waterfront dining experience, the restaurants at Zaitunay Bay offer fresh seafood and international cuisine with beautiful views of the marina.

Beirut’s most interesting neighborhoods, like Downtown, Gemmayze, and Mar Mikhael, are best explored on foot. Walking allows you to appreciate the unique architecture, discover hidden alleyways, and soak in the vibrant street life. The seaside Corniche is also designed for strolling. This is the most rewarding way to experience the city’s atmosphere.

For longer distances between neighborhoods, or when you are tired, the most convenient option is to use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Bolt. They are widely available, relatively affordable, and provide upfront pricing, which avoids the need to negotiate fares with regular taxis. Public transport in Beirut is complex and not very tourist-friendly, so ride-hailing apps or pre-booked private drivers are the recommended modes of transport for visitors.

Today is dedicated to the quintessential day trip from Beirut, covering three of Lebanon’s most famous sites. The most practical way to do this is by booking a small group tour or hiring a private driver for the day. Your first stop will be the incredible Jeita Grotto, a system of two interconnected limestone caves. You’ll explore the upper grotto on foot, walking through a world of colossal stalactites and stalagmites, and then take a silent boat ride on the subterranean lake of the lower grotto. It is a truly spectacular natural wonder.

From Jeita, you will head to Harissa, a key pilgrimage site. Here, you will ride the ‘Téléphérique’ (cable car) up a steep, pine-clad mountain to the magnificent shrine of Our Lady of Lebanon. From the base of the towering bronze statue, you are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Bay of Jounieh and the Mediterranean coastline. The final stop of the day is the ancient city of Byblos (Jbeil), a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here you can explore the Crusader castle, the Phoenician ruins, and the charming medieval old town and harbor. Enjoy a late seaside lunch before heading back to Beirut in the evening.

You will return to your Beirut hotel in the evening. Having a comfortable and familiar base like the InterContinental Phoenicia Beirut or the boutique Albergo Hotel to come back to is perfect after a long and rewarding day of exploration. You can relax and enjoy the hotel’s amenities before heading out for a late dinner.

Staying at a centrally located hotel such as the O Monot Boutique Hotel or the Gefinor Rotana – Beirut simplifies your travel plans immensely. There is no need to worry about packing and moving luggage, which allows you to fully immerse yourself in the day’s adventure, knowing a comfortable room awaits your return.

Photography is not allowed inside the Jeita Grotto to protect the delicate formations. You will be required to store your camera and phone in lockers before entering. Embrace this as an opportunity to be fully present and experience the incredible beauty of the caves with your own eyes. At Harissa, for the best photos, walk to the top of the Our Lady of Lebanon statue base; the panoramic view is truly worth the climb up the spiral staircase.

It is best to book your day trip in advance, either online or through your hotel. This ensures you have a spot with a reputable company and a knowledgeable guide. Most full-day tours to Jeita, Harissa, and Byblos include hotel pickup, a professional guide, and entrance fees. Some also include lunch, so be sure to clarify what is covered when you book. An early start around 8:30 AM is typical and helps you beat the worst of the traffic leaving Beirut.

For today’s multi-stop tour, comfortable and practical clothing is key. Lightweight trousers, shorts, or a casual dress are suitable for the day’s activities. The caves at Jeita can be cool and damp, so a light jacket or cardigan is highly recommended, even on a hot day. When visiting the sacred site of Harissa, it is important to dress modestly. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered as a sign of respect. A scarf is a very useful item to have with you for this purpose.

You will be doing a fair amount of walking, especially around the Byblos archaeological site, so comfortable walking shoes are essential. The sun can be very strong along the coast, so a sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are crucial for your protection. This combination of practical, comfortable, and respectful attire will ensure you are prepared for all aspects of this diverse and exciting day trip.

Most organized tours to this region include a set lunch, often at a restaurant in or near Byblos. This is usually a traditional Lebanese mezze spread, which is a fantastic way to sample a wide variety of local dishes like hummus, tabbouleh, stuffed vine leaves, and grilled meats. This is the most convenient option and ensures a satisfying midday meal.

If you are on a private tour or traveling independently, the historic harbor of Byblos is famous for its excellent seafood restaurants. Establishments like Pepe’s Fishing Club or Bab El-Mina offer incredibly fresh fish and stunning sea views, making for a truly memorable dining experience. Back in Beirut for dinner, you can explore a different neighborhood. The Hamra district offers a huge variety of options, from classic Lebanese food at T-Marbouta to international cuisine, catering to all tastes and budgets.

The most highly recommended way to visit Jeita Grotto, Harissa, and Byblos in a single day is by joining an organized tour or hiring a private car and driver. Public transportation between these sites is not direct and would be very time-consuming and complicated to coordinate. A tour handles all the logistics, including navigating the often-chaotic traffic, allowing you to relax and enjoy the sights.

Most tours will pick you up and drop you off directly at your hotel in Beirut. The journey is part of the experience, offering beautiful views of the Lebanese coast. A private driver gives you the most flexibility to set your own pace, perhaps spending more time in Byblos if you wish. This is the most efficient and enjoyable way to cover the significant distances and varied terrain of today’s itinerary.

A day trip to the Bekaa Valley is an unforgettable journey into ancient history. Due to the distance and the region’s complexities, booking a guided tour or hiring an experienced private driver is the most sensible and enriching way to visit. Your primary destination is the magnificent archaeological site of Baalbek, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The scale of its temples is simply staggering. You will walk through the monumental Propylaea, explore the vast courtyards, and stand in awe before the Temple of Bacchus, which is larger and better preserved than the Parthenon in Athens. A knowledgeable guide is essential to fully appreciate the history and grandeur of this incredible place.

After Baalbek, your tour will likely proceed to Anjar, another UNESCO site. Anjar is unique in Lebanon as it is the only remaining example of an Umayyad-era inland commercial center. The ruins are a beautifully excavated example of 8th-century city planning, with straight streets, colonnades, and the remains of palaces and baths. To complete your tour of the Bekaa Valley, most trips include a stop at Chateau Ksara, one of Lebanon’s oldest and most famous wineries. You can tour its ancient Roman caves, which now serve as wine cellars, and enjoy a tasting of their excellent wines before making the scenic journey back to Beirut.

You will once again return to the comfort of your Beirut hotel in the evening after a long but fascinating day trip. The journey to the Bekaa Valley and back is significant, and having a relaxing space to return to is essential. Hotels like the InterContinental Phoenicia Beirut or the Gefinor Rotana – Beirut offer the perfect amenities to unwind, from a refreshing swim to a comfortable lounge for a relaxing drink.

The strategy of using Beirut as your base continues to be the most practical approach. There is no need to worry about changing hotels, allowing you to pack light for your day trips. Your chosen hotel, whether it’s a luxury landmark or a stylish boutique option, serves as your reliable and comfortable anchor throughout your whirlwind 4-day exploration of Lebanon.

The Bekaa Valley is a more conservative region than Beirut or the coastal cities. It is important to dress modestly for this day trip. Both men and women should wear long trousers or skirts and ensure their shoulders are covered. This is a sign of respect for the local culture. The sun in the valley can be very strong and there is little shade at the archaeological sites, so a sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are absolutely essential.

Given the proximity of the Bekaa Valley to the Syrian border, it is strongly advised to visit with a reputable tour company or a trusted local driver. They are up-to-date on the local security situation and know the safest routes to take. Traveling independently to this region is not recommended for first-time visitors. Check your government’s travel advisories before your trip for the most current information.

For your trip to the Bekaa Valley, modest and conservative dress is the most appropriate choice. Long, lightweight trousers or a long skirt are recommended for both men and women. A top that covers your shoulders, like a t-shirt or a blouse, is also necessary. This respectful attire is suitable for the cultural environment of the region and will ensure you feel comfortable throughout the day.

Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes are a must. The site of Baalbek is vast and requires a lot of walking on ancient, uneven stone surfaces. The sun in the valley is very powerful, so a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are crucial for protection. Layering with a light jacket or sweater is also a good idea, as the temperature can vary between the coast and the higher-altitude valley.

Similar to the previous day trip, most organized tours to Baalbek and Anjar will include a set lunch at a local restaurant in the Bekaa Valley, often in the town of Zahle. These restaurants typically serve a delicious and generous traditional Lebanese mezze. This is the most convenient way to dine and is usually a highlight of the tour, offering authentic local flavors.

If you are on a private tour, you have more flexibility. The city of Zahle, the capital of the Bekaa Governorate, is famous for its ‘berdawni’ restaurants, which are built along a river. It’s a beautiful setting for a leisurely lunch. For a truly excellent meal, the L’Annexe restaurant at Chateau Ksara serves high-quality food that pairs perfectly with their wines. Back in Beirut, a relaxed dinner in a neighborhood you haven’t yet explored, like Achrafieh, would be a great way to end the day.

Due to the long distance (approximately 2-3 hours drive each way), the security checkpoints, and the complexity of the region, the only recommended way for tourists to visit Baalbek and Anjar is with an organized tour or a pre-booked private driver. Reputable tour companies are experienced in navigating the area safely and efficiently.

This approach removes all the stress of driving, navigation, and planning. Your guide will handle all the logistics, allowing you to simply sit back and appreciate the stunning mountain scenery on the journey to and from the Bekaa Valley. The tour will provide door-to-door service from your hotel in Beirut, making for a seamless and secure day of extraordinary historical discovery.

Spend your final morning immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of Lebanon’s history at the National Museum of Beirut. This world-class museum is an absolute must-see and provides a perfect conclusion to your trip, putting all the ancient sites you’ve visited into a grand context. The beautifully curated collection takes you on a chronological journey from prehistory through the Phoenician, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods. Highlights include the famous Phoenician gilded bronze figurines, a stunning collection of Roman and Byzantine gold jewelry, and the intricately decorated sarcophagi of the Phoenician kings.

After the museum, depending on your flight schedule, you can indulge in some last-minute souvenir shopping. Head to the Beirut Souks for a mix of international brands and local artisan shops. For a more unique experience, visit a local craft store like ‘Artisans du Liban’ to purchase high-quality, authentic Lebanese handicrafts, supporting local artisans in the process. Enjoy one last delicious Lebanese lunch in the vibrant Hamra or Achrafieh districts before making your way to the airport for your departure, filled with memories of this incredible country.

On your departure day, you will check out from your Beirut hotel. A hotel with a flexible check-out policy or reliable luggage storage is a major advantage. All the recommended hotels, such as the Albergo Hotel or the Gefinor Rotana – Beirut, will securely hold your luggage, allowing you to enjoy your final hours in the city without any burdens.

Many hotels also have comfortable lounges, cafes, or business centers where you can relax before leaving for the airport. Being able to return to your hotel to collect your bags and perhaps arrange your airport transfer directly with the concierge provides a seamless and calming end to your trip, ensuring your departure from Lebanon is as smooth as your arrival.

Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY) can be very busy, and security procedures can be extensive. It is highly recommended to arrive at the airport at least three hours before your international flight’s departure time. This will give you ample time for check-in, security checks, and immigration without feeling rushed. Pre-booking your taxi or Uber/Bolt to the airport is a good idea to ensure a timely departure from your hotel.

When shopping for souvenirs, remember that prices at markets are often negotiable, while prices in boutiques and malls are fixed. Bargaining should always be done with a friendly and respectful attitude. Using your remaining Lebanese Pounds for small purchases is a good idea, but most vendors will happily accept US Dollars for larger items.

For your final day of museum visits and shopping, a smart-casual and comfortable outfit is ideal. As you will be flying later in the day, wearing something you will also be comfortable in on the plane is a practical choice. Lightweight trousers and a stylish top or shirt are perfect. Comfortable shoes are still important for walking through the museum and shopping areas.

The National Museum is air-conditioned, so having a light sweater or scarf with you is a good idea. This layered approach allows you to stay comfortable both indoors and outdoors. This versatile and comfortable style ensures you can enjoy your last activities in Beirut and then transition smoothly to your travel home.

For your last lunch in Lebanon, enjoy a final, authentic meal. The neighborhood around the National Museum has several good local eateries. Alternatively, head to the Achrafieh district for a meal at a classic restaurant like Abdel Wahab, famous for its traditional Lebanese cuisine and beautiful setting. For a quicker option, the Hamra district is filled with excellent choices for a final shawarma or falafel sandwich.

Another great option is to visit a traditional Lebanese sweet shop, like a branch of Hallab 1881, to sample and buy some delicious ‘baklava’ or ‘ma’amoul’ (date-filled cookies). These make for a perfect final treat and a wonderful edible souvenir to bring home with you. It’s a sweet and memorable way to conclude your culinary journey through Lebanon.

On your last day in Beirut, a combination of walking and ride-hailing services will be most effective. You can take an Uber or Bolt to the National Museum. From there, you might choose to walk to a nearby neighborhood like Achrafieh for lunch or take another car to your chosen shopping destination like the Beirut Souks. Using these apps is the most efficient way to cover the distances between these key sites.

For your final and most important journey to Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY), pre-booking a transfer is the most reliable option. You can arrange this through your hotel or use a ride-hailing app. Be sure to allow at least 45 minutes to an hour for the journey from the city center, as traffic can be unpredictable and heavy. Planning this final transfer in advance will ensure a timely and stress-free departure.

Lebanon’s stunning mountain and coastal scenery provide a beautiful backdrop for yoga and wellness. While dedicated multi-day retreats are more common outside the main cities, you can find numerous high-quality yoga studios in Beirut offering drop-in classes in various styles, from Vinyasa to Ashtanga. Many luxury hotels and beach resorts also have excellent spa facilities and wellness centers where you can book yoga sessions, meditation classes, or holistic treatments for a day of rejuvenation and relaxation away from the city’s buzz.

• Lightweight, breathable clothing (cotton, linen)
• Smart-casual outfits for evenings in Beirut
• Modest attire for religious sites (covers shoulders and knees)
• A light jacket or sweater (for evenings and air-conditioning)
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Swimsuit for hotel pools or beach clubs
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat
• Universal power adapter (Types C, D, & G are used)
• A reusable water bottle
• Sufficient US Dollars in cash for the entire trip

Beirut is a fantastic shopping destination. For high-end international brands, head to the modern Beirut Souks. For unique, locally made goods, explore the boutiques in the Mar Mikhael and Gemmayze neighborhoods. Look for traditional crafts like handcrafted jewelry, olive oil soap, blown glass, and embroidered textiles (‘caftans’). Lebanese wine and ‘arak’ (aniseed spirit) make excellent gifts, as do boxes of exquisite Lebanese sweets like baklava and ma’amoul. Souk El Tayeb is a wonderful farmers’ market (usually on Saturdays) for artisanal food products.

Due to the ongoing economic crisis, US Dollars (USD) are the de facto currency for tourists. Bring sufficient USD in cash for your entire trip. While the official currency is the Lebanese Pound (LBP), prices are often quoted in USD, and it is the preferred method of payment. Credit card use can be unreliable, and ATM withdrawals are problematic.

Safety in Lebanon can be complex and can change. While many tourists visit without incident, it is crucial to stay informed about the current situation. Check your government’s travel advisories before booking and before you travel. It is highly recommended to use reputable tour companies or trusted local drivers for day trips, especially to regions like the Bekaa Valley. Avoid border areas.

Citizens of many Western countries, including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and most EU nations, can get a free visa on arrival for up to one month. However, your passport must not contain any Israeli stamps or visas. Always verify the latest visa requirements for your nationality before you go.

In Beirut and other coastal cities, the dress code is generally very liberal and Western-style clothing is common. However, when visiting religious sites (both mosques and churches), you must dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees. In more conservative areas like the Bekaa Valley, modest dress is also recommended as a sign of respect.

Yes, English and French are very widely spoken in Lebanon, particularly in Beirut and among the younger generation. You will have no problem communicating in English in hotels, restaurants, and tourist sites.

Within Beirut, ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt are the most convenient option. For day trips to other parts of the country, it is highly recommended to hire a private driver or join an organized tour. Public transport is not well-developed for tourists, and driving yourself can be very challenging due to chaotic traffic.

It is not recommended to drink tap water in Lebanon. Stick to bottled water, which is readily available everywhere.

Tipping is customary in Lebanon. In restaurants, a tip of 10-15% is standard for good service. It is also common to tip hotel staff, tour guides, and drivers to show appreciation for their service.

Lebanon has a mix of power outlets, with Types C, D, and G all being used. It is essential to bring a universal travel adapter to ensure you can charge your devices.

‘Mezze’ is a cornerstone of Lebanese dining. It is a style of eating where a variety of small, flavorful dishes are served as appetizers or as a meal in themselves. Common mezze dishes include hummus, tabbouleh, fattoush, baba ghanoush, stuffed vine leaves, and various savory pastries. It’s a social and delicious way to eat.