Things To Do
in Beirut
This vibrant Mediterranean city is renowned for its rich history, blending French, Ottoman, and Arab influences, reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and multicultural atmosphere. It serves as Lebanon's capital, pulsating with life, offering bustling markets, a renowned nightlife, and museums that trace the region's complex past.
However, it has also faced challenges, including political instability and the devastating port explosion in 2020, yet it remains a resilient and fascinating urban center.
- "Marhaba" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Inshallah" - God willing
- "Yalla" - Let's go
- "Ahlan wa sahlan" - Welcome
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll along the picturesque Corniche. Enjoy the fresh sea breeze and the stunning view of the Mediterranean.
Visit the National Museum of Beirut to learn about Lebanon's rich history and heritage. Spend some time at a nearby café for a light lunch.
Watch the sunset from the Corniche and then enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant. Try some local seafood dishes accompanied by a refreshing drink.
Take a short drive to Byblos, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Explore the ancient crusader castle and admire the archaeological sites.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a seaside restaurant overlooking the harbor. After lunch, visit the old souk for some shopping and souvenirs.
Return to Beirut and find a cozy spot in Gemmayzeh for dinner. Experience the vibrant nightlife with bars and local music.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and culture with diverse influences.
- Vibrant nightlife and culinary scene.
- Beautiful Mediterranean coastline.
- Welcoming and hospitable people.
- Political instability and economic challenges.
- Frequent issues with infrastructure and public services.
- High levels of air pollution and traffic congestion.
- Safety concerns due to regional tensions and past conflicts.
Best Activities in Beirut
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails and diverse wildlife in one of the largest nature reserves in Lebanon.
Admire the iconic rock formations and enjoy stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Enjoy a leisurely ride along the waterfront promenade with beautiful views of the sea and cityscape.
Relax in this urban green space and enjoy a peaceful picnic amidst the bustling city.
Discover the historical and cultural landmarks of Beirut on a guided walking tour.
Tours
Uncover the best of Beirut with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Beirut
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic rock formations off the coast of Beirut, offering stunning views and photo opportunities especially during sunset.
A lively waterfront promenade with a variety of restaurants and cafes, providing picturesque views of the marina and the Mediterranean Sea.
A picturesque town in the mountains overlooking Beirut, offering panoramic views of the city and the coastline.
Located a short distance from Beirut, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features ancient ruins and majestic temples, providing unique and historical photo opportunities.
The historic center of the city, featuring modern and traditional architecture, bustling markets, and significant landmarks, offering diverse photo opportunities.
Food in Beirut
Beirut Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Jordanian dish of rice, lamb cooked in a fermented dried yogurt sauce, and topped with nuts. Try it at renowned restaurants like Tawlet or Em Sherif in Beirut.
Must-Try!
A Levantine dish made of bulgur, minced onions, and finely ground lean beef, lamb, goat, or camel meat. Head to Al Falamanki for an authentic taste.
A deep-fried ball made from ground chickpeas, fava beans, or both. A street food staple found in virtually every corner of Beirut, with standouts like Falafel Sahyoun and Abou Jihad.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Beirut better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A weekly farmers' market in Beirut offering a wide range of organic produce, dairy, and traditional foods, providing an authentic taste of Lebanese cuisine.
Known for its street food vendors offering everything from traditional manakish (Lebanese flatbread) to shawarma and grilled kebabs, making it a must-visit for street food enthusiasts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Beirut, it's important to be mindful of personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when engaging in conversations or social interactions.
Greetings are an important part of Lebanese culture. It's customary to exchange greetings with a handshake, and in some cases, a kiss on the cheek, especially between people of the same gender.
Lebanon is known for its religious and cultural diversity. It's important to show respect for different religious beliefs and cultural practices, and avoid sensitive topics in conversations such as politics and religion.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Beirut with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Beirut
Ensure a smooth experience
In Beirut, Lebanon, tipping is a common practice in restaurants, cafes, and for various services. It is customary to leave a tip of around 10-15% of the total bill as a gesture of appreciation for good service.
Beirut, Lebanon has a wide range of payment options including cash, credit/debit cards, and increasingly, mobile payment solutions. Many businesses and vendors accept multiple forms of payment, providing convenience for both locals and visitors.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Beirut.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Beirut for pleasant weather, blooming flowers, and outdoor activities.
Peak tourist season with hot and humid weather, ideal for beach and water activities.
Mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and comfortable weather for exploring the city and nearby attractions.
Cool and rainy weather, some areas may be snowy, but ideal for experiencing local culture and indoor activities.
Beirut at Night
Hiking in Beirut
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A protected nature reserve featuring ancient cedar trees, diverse flora and fauna, and various hiking trails, ideal for both novice and experienced hikers.
A UNESCO World Heritage site offering spectacular views, historic monasteries, and various hiking paths through lush greenery and rugged terrain.
A popular destination for hiking and outdoor activities, known for its scenic trails, stunning mountain views, and proximity to ski resorts in winter.
Renowned for its ski slopes, Mzaar also offers several hiking trails during the summer months, with breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys.
A beautiful site for hiking with trails that offer views of the dam and surrounding nature, making it a great spot for a peaceful day hike.
Known for its picturesque river, this area boasts hiking trails that follow the river's path, offering a relaxing environment and beautiful scenery.
The area offers trails with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding mountains, perfect for a scenic hike with various local attractions.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Beirut through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Beirut by plane.
The main international airport serving Beirut and Lebanon.
Located in Cairo, Egypt, it is one of the largest and busiest airports in Africa.
The largest airport in Cyprus, located in Larnaca, serving numerous international flights.
Located in Amman, Jordan, it serves as a major airport for international flights in the region.
One of the largest airports in the world, located in Istanbul, Turkey, serving as a significant hub for international travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A prominent Christian group in Lebanon, the Maronites have a significant population in Beirut, particularly in areas like Ashrafieh.
This group represents one of the largest Muslim sects in Lebanon and has a strong presence in various neighborhoods in Beirut.
Sunni Muslims constitute a major demographic in Beirut, particularly in areas like Tariq al-Jdideh and the Palestinian refugee camps.
The Druze community, though smaller than the others, is part of the diverse fabric of Beirut's population.
The Armenian community in Beirut is historically significant and has established distinct neighborhoods, including Bourj Hammoud.
Includes various other faiths and nationalities, contributing to the multicultural landscape of Beirut.
The Soul of Beirut
Discover the essence of Beirut through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Beirut, with numerous clubs and a passionate fan base. The Lebanese Premier League features local teams that compete fiercely.
Basketball has a significant following, with several clubs and leagues. The Lebanese Basketball League attracts many fans and players, contributing to the sport's growth in the region.
Volleyball is also popular, especially among women. Many schools and universities have volleyball teams, and local competitions are held regularly.
Athletics (track and field) has a dedicated following with various events organized throughout the year, focusing on promoting physical fitness and competitive sports.
Given Beirut's coastal location, swimming is a favored recreational activity as well as a competitive sport, with various clubs training athletes for local and international events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Beirut.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Beirut offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, with dedicated eateries like Falafel Sahyoun and Le Chef catering specifically to these dietary preferences.
While not as prevalent, some restaurants and cafes in Beirut do provide gluten-free options, but it's advisable to inquire beforehand and communicate any dietary restrictions clearly.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Beirut with these cultural adventures.
