Things To Do
in Lebanon
Lebanon is a small Mediterranean country at the crossroads of ancient civilizations and modern cities, where mountains rise above a sparkling coast and a resilient, hospitality-driven people. Its cities hum with cafe culture, historic architecture, and a dynamic arts scene, while its countryside reveals olive groves, cedar forests, and ancient ruins. The cuisine is social and celebratory, turning meals into gatherings that showcase mezze, grilled meats, and fresh produce.
Despite economic and political challenges, Lebanon remains a vibrant travel destination where every corner offers a new story, flavor, and landscape to explore.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café in Gemmayzeh, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Beirut. Explore the National Museum of Beirut, where you can admire the country's rich history through its impressive collection of artifacts. Conclude your morning with a stroll along the Corniche, enjoying the refreshing Mediterranean breeze.
In the afternoon, visit the bustling Souks of Beirut for an eclectic mix of shopping and dining. Sample traditional Lebanese dishes at a local restaurant and indulge in some delicious desserts like baklava or knafeh. After lunch, take a short walk to the Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque, known for its stunning architecture.
As the sun sets, head to the rooftop bars in Mar Mikhael for breathtaking views of the city skyline. Enjoy a cocktail while listening to live music that reflects the city's vibrant nightlife. Wrap up your evening with a night walk along the waterfront, where the sound of waves adds to the ambiance.
Travel to the Beqaa Valley and start your day with a visit to the famous wine region, where the sun-soaked vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see. Tour the local wineries, participating in tastings of exquisite Lebanese wines while learning about the winemaking process. Enjoy a farm-to-table brunch at a local winery, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
After lunch, visit the ancient Roman ruins of Baalbek, a UNESCO World Heritage site that boasts some of the best-preserved Roman temples. Wander through the impressive columns and learn about the rich history of the site with the help of a local guide. Spend time exploring the nearby town, immersed in the local culture and hospitality.
As evening descends, enjoy a traditional Lebanese meal at a rustic restaurant in the Beqaa Valley. Experience the warmth of Lebanese hospitality through live music and folk dancing performances that immerse you in local culture. End your day stargazing in the serene countryside, enjoying the peaceful ambiance away from the city lights.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥗Meal for 2 in mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $70-120 |
| 🚕Taxi (short city ride) | $3-8 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at cafe | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact size makes it easy to explore diverse regions
- Rich culinary scene and warm hospitality
- Rich history and ancient ruins accessible
- Diverse landscapes from coast to mountains
- Currency volatility and inflation can complicate budgeting
- Occasional security fluctuations and protests in some areas
- Limited public transportation outside major cities
- "مرحبا" - Hello
- "شكراً" - Thank you
- "من فضلك" - Please
- "كم السعر؟" - How much is this?
- "أين الحمام؟" - Where is the bathroom?
- "أنا لا أتكلّم العربية جيداً" - I do not speak Arabic well.
- "هل تقبلون بطاقات الائتمان؟" - Do you accept credit cards?
Places to Visit in Lebanon
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic sea stacks off the Beirut coast, best photographed at sunset with the Mediterranean backdrop.
A mix of rebuilt 19th- and 20th-century architecture with modern life and street scenes.
Cobbled lanes, ancient harbor, and Crusader-era ruins provide atmospheric coastal photography.
Spectacular limestone caves with dramatic lighting and impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
Majestic mountain landscapes, towering cedars, and historic monasteries for expansive nature shots.
Food in Lebanon
Lebanon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A selection of small dishes such as hummus, mutabbal, tabbouleh, baba ganoush, and salads shared across the table.
Must-Try!
Crispy bulgur shells filled with spiced meat or mixed with pine nuts; versions vary by region.
A parsley-heavy salad with bulgur, tomatoes, onion, lemon, and olive oil.
Flatbread topped with za'atar, cheese, or ground meat; a staple for breakfast or a quick meal.
Marinated chicken skewers grilled and served with pita, garlic sauce, and tomatoes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A weekend farmers market featuring fresh produce, dairy, bread, and ready-to-eat street snacks from local producers.
Falafel, shawarma, arayes, and sweet knafeh sold from stalls and small eateries in central districts.
Historic markets offering spicy street foods, grilled meats, and regional sweets—great for tasting bold flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Lebanese hospitality is warm and food-centered; sharing meals and offering tea or coffee is part of daily life.
Dress modestly in religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered for women; remove shoes when required.
Greet with 'Marhaba' (hello) or 'Salaam'; show respect to elders and avoid loud confrontations in public.
Safety
Tipping in Lebanon
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 10-15% tip is common if service is not included; small tips are appreciated for cafe staff and taxi drivers.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in Beirut; cash (LBP and USD) is still common in many places; ATMs are widespread.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid along the coast; beaches and rooftop venues are in full swing. Mountain areas stay cooler, ideal for day trips if you can escape the heat.
Cool to mild on the coast with potential snow in the mountains; rain is common, so pack layers and waterproofs.
Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes make it ideal for hiking and outdoor markets.
Sunny days with cooler evenings; great for exploring cities, ruins, and wine regions without peak crowds.
Lebanon at Night
Hiking in Lebanon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A long-distance trail across the country with multiple segments—great for multi-day treks.
Ancient valley with monasteries and scenic canyons.
Protected cedar forests and mountain scenery, part of the Druze heartland.
A rugged reserve with diverse flora and wildlife and scenic overlooks.
Airports
How to reach Lebanon by plane.
Main international gateway to Lebanon, located near Beirut; taxi or car rental to city center; connected by major airlines.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Lebanon is home to Sunni and Shia Muslims, Maronite and Orthodox Christians, Druze, Armenians, and other minority groups; diverse linguistic and cultural identities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local leagues and passionate fan culture.
Widely followed, with leagues and community courts.
Beirut’s mountains offer ski resorts like Faraya and Laklouk in winter.
Swimming, jet-skiing, and sailing along the coast.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Lebanese cuisine naturally supports vegetarian eating with abundant legumes, salads, grains, and vegetables; order mezze, lentil or chickpea dishes, and olive oil–based dressings; ask for dairy-free options if needed.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lebanon.