Beirut Lebanon

Beirut Travel Guide

Welcome to Beirut, the vibrant and historic capital city of Lebanon! This comprehensive guide will help you navigate through your exciting journey in this remarkable destination.

Places to Go:

  1. The National Museum of Beirut: Explore over 5,000 years of Lebanese history, from prehistory to the Ottoman era.
  2. Beirut Central District (BCD): Stroll through the heart of downtown Beirut, filled with modern architecture, art galleries, and restaurants.
  3. Raouche Rock (Pigeon Rocks): Visit this iconic landmark, known for its unique rock formations and beautiful sunsets.
  4. The Beirut Souks: Shop for souvenirs, clothing, and local delicacies in these historic markets.
  5. Baalbek: Take a day trip to this ancient city, famous for its Roman temples.
  6. Byblos: Visit the ancient port city of Byblos, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.
  7. Jeita Grotto: Explore these stunning limestone caverns, located north of Beirut.

Activities:

  1. Beach Hopping: Enjoy the Mediterranean coastline by visiting some of Beirut’s popular beaches like Raouche, Mar Mikhael Beach, and La Maison Blanche.
  2. Nightlife: Experience Beirut’s lively nightlife at venues like B018, The Grand Factory, or TheGarden.
  3. Art Galleries: Visit galleries such as Sfeir-Semler Gallery, Ayyam Gallery, and the Sursock Museum.
  4. Food Tours: Indulge in a culinary adventure with a guided food tour through Beirut’s street food scene or its upscale restaurants.
  5. Hiking: Explore Lebanon’s stunning nature by hiking trails like Qornet esh Sherouk and the Shouf Biosphere Reserve.

Where to Eat:

  1. Al Mandaloun: Experience traditional Lebanese cuisine in a beautiful setting overlooking the old city.
  2. Tawlet: Savor home-cooked meals made from local ingredients at this communal dining restaurant.
  3. Abou Joseph: Try the famous Lebanese breakfast at this charming café in Gemmayzeh.
  4. Kantari: Experience authentic Lebanese street food in the heart of the Beirut Souks.
  5. The Green O: Enjoy fresh, organic dishes at this eco-friendly restaurant in Mar Mikhael.

Where to Stay:

  1. Le Gray Beirut Solidere: Luxury accommodation with panoramic city views and a rooftop pool.
  2. The Phoenicia Beirut: A historic hotel offering luxurious rooms, dining options, and a spa.
  3. Hotel Le Vendôme: A boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown Beirut.
  4. Mandala Hotel: A stylish hotel in the trendy Gemmayzeh neighborhood.
  5. Airbnb: Rent an apartment or home for a more local experience.

Things to Know:

  1. Language: Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially among young people and in tourist areas.
  2. Currency: The Lebanese Pound (LBP) is the official currency. US dollars are also widely accepted.
  3. Safety: Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and avoid political demonstrations or sensitive areas.
  4. Tipping: It’s customary to tip around 10% in restaurants and cafés.
  5. Transportation: Taxis are a convenient way to get around, but be sure to agree on the price before starting your journey. Public buses are also available for a cheaper option.

Tips:

  1. Haggle: It’s common and expected to haggle in markets and with taxi drivers.
  2. Respect Cultural Differences: Lebanon is a diverse country, so be respectful of its customs and traditions.
  3. Try Everything: From mezze plates to shawarma, Beirut offers an incredible food scene – don’t miss out!
  4. Stay Updated: Check travel advisories and stay informed about any political developments that might affect your trip.

Enjoy your trip to Beirut, where ancient history meets modern culture in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere!