Lebanon Travel Guide
Top Places to Visit
- Beirut – Vibrant nightlife, museums, and cuisine
- Byblos – Ancient Phoenician city and seafront charm
- Baalbek – Roman ruins including the Temple of Bacchus
- Jeita Grotto – Stunning limestone caves
- Harissa – Our Lady of Lebanon statue and coastal views
- Qadisha Valley – Hiking and monasteries in the north
Best Hotels to Stay
Language & Culture
Arabic is the official language, with French and English widely spoken. Lebanon blends Middle Eastern and Mediterranean influences. Religion, hospitality, and food are central to Lebanese culture.Transportation, Currency & Food
- Transportation: Taxis, ride-hailing apps (Uber/Careem), buses, rental cars
- Currency: Lebanese Pound (LBP); USD also accepted in many places
- Food: Tabbouleh, hummus, kibbeh, manakish, grilled meats, baklava
Best Season & Entry Points
| Season | Weather | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| April – June | Mild, spring blooms | Great for sightseeing and hiking |
| September – November | Pleasant, low humidity | Ideal travel season |
| July – August | Hot | Best for beaches and nightlife |
Entry via Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY)
Estimated Budget (for Two Travelers)
| Category | Estimated Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Flights | $500 – $900 | Round trip from Europe/US |
| Accommodation | $400 – $1200 | Mid-range to luxury |
| Dining | $200 – $350 | Local and international cuisine |
| Transport | $100 – $250 | Taxis, Uber, rentals |
| Activities | $100 – $300 | Ruins, museums, hikes |
Packing List Suggestions
- Passport (visa-free/visa-on-arrival for many countries)
- Modest clothing for religious sites
- Swimwear, hiking shoes
- Travel adapter (Type C, D, G)
- Sunscreen, sunglasses
20 Basic Arabic Language Tips
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Marhaba | Hello |
| Kifak / Kifik | How are you? (m/f) |
| Mnih / Mniha | Good (m/f) |
| Shukran | Thank you |
| Afwan | You’re welcome |
| Min fadlak | Please |
| Naam / Laa | Yes / No |
| Ma fahmet | I don’t understand |
| Btihki Englizi? | Do you speak English? |
| Kam el se’er? | How much is it? |
| Wayn el hammam? | Where’s the bathroom? |
| Ma’assalama | Goodbye |
| Sabaah el kheir | Good morning |
| Masa el kheir | Good evening |
| Ismi… | My name is… |
| Ana min… | I’m from… |
| La mushkila | No problem |
| Baddeh… | I want… |
| Helou / Tayeb | Delicious |
| Mumkin sora? | Can I take a photo? |
Health & Safety
- Check current political conditions before travel
- Tap water not recommended — use bottled
- Emergency number: 112
- Travel insurance is strongly advised
- Respect local customs, especially in conservative areas
Festivals & Holidays
- Beirut International Film Festival – Arts and cinema
- Byblos International Festival – Summer music event
- Eid al-Fitr & Eid al-Adha – Major Islamic holidays
- Independence Day – November 22
- Wine and Food Festivals – In regions like Batroun and Bekaa
