Beirut, Lebanon 7 Day Itinerary

Beirut, Lebanon: 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Downtown Beirut

  • Check-in at your hotel (recommended: Le Gray or Monroe Hotel)
  • Start with a visit to the National Museum of Beirut, exploring Lebanese archaeology and history.
  • Walk through the Martyrs’ Square, a significant historical site, leading you to Graffiti Alley with its colorful street art.
  • Have lunch at Abou Joseph, a traditional Lebanese restaurant offering delicious mezza dishes.
  • In the afternoon, visit the Beirut Central District (BCD), filled with modern architecture, cafes, and boutiques.
  • Dinner at Al Mandaloun, featuring stunning views of the city and Mediterranean cuisine.

Day 2: Corniche & Raouché

  • Morning stroll along the Beirut Corniche, taking in the sea breeze and enjoying the picturesque views.
  • Head to Raouché (Pigeon Rocks), a famous natural rock formation accessible by car or water taxi.
  • Lunch at Le Catalan in Raouché, offering French Mediterranean dishes with breathtaking vistas.
  • In the afternoon, relax on Ramlet el-Baalbek Beach or explore the Beirut Hippodrome.
  • Dinner at Tawlet Souks El Tayeb, a communal dining project showcasing regional cuisines and fresh produce from local farmers.

Day 3: Jeita Grotto & Byblos

  • Morning trip to the Jeita Grotto, one of the most beautiful grottoes in the world.
  • Lunch at a local restaurant near Jeita Grotto or head back to Beirut for lunch.
  • Afternoon visit to Byblos (Jbeil), an ancient Phoenician city and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Explore the medieval Byblos Castle, Crusader City, and Saint John’s Church.
  • Dinner at a local restaurant in Byblos such as Al Basha or Fork & Glass.

Day 4: Baalbek & Anjar

  • Full-day trip to Baalbek, home to some of the largest and most well-preserved Roman ruins.
  • Visit the Temple of Jupiter, Bacchus, and Venus, as well as the Triumphal Arch.
  • Lunch at a local restaurant near Baalbek.
  • Afternoon visit to Anjar, another UNESCO World Heritage Site with Umayyad architectural remains.
  • Return to Beirut for dinner; try Kassabra for Lebanese fine dining.

Day 5: Hammana & Shouf Cedars

  • Morning drive to the scenic Hammana Valley, where you can enjoy a hike and visit a local winery.
  • Lunch at La Maison des Vignes de Hammana.
  • Afternoon trip to the Shouf Biosphere Reserve to see the ancient Cedars of Lebanon.
  • Dinner in Dbayye or Mzaar, nearby towns with local restaurants such as Aishti or Al Fahem.

Day 6: Beirut’s Nightlife & Shopping

  • Spend the day exploring Beirut’s vibrant nightlife and shopping districts.
  • Start at Mar Mikhael, a trendy neighborhood filled with art galleries, bars, and restaurants.
  • Visit Soho Gallery and Gallery Sfeir-Semler.
  • Have lunch at Tawlet Mar Mikhael or Bistro Babel.
  • In the evening, enjoy Beirut’s nightlife at popular spots like B018, The Grand Factory, or Bliss.

Day 7: Departure

  • Spend your last day relaxing, shopping for souvenirs, or visiting any remaining attractions in Beirut.
  • Have a farewell lunch at your favorite restaurant from the week.
  • Check out of your hotel and depart.

Things to know:

  • Lebanese currency is the Lebanese Pound (LBP). Most places accept credit cards, but it’s always good to have cash on hand.
  • Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken in Beirut.
  • Be respectful of local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Taxis are plentiful and affordable; use meter taxis whenever possible.
  • Summer months can be very hot, so pack accordingly. Winter brings rain and occasional snowfall.