Things To Do
in Borj Hammoud
Borj Hammoud is a densely packed district just east of Beirut with a strong Armenian-Lebanese community. The neighborhood is famous for its vibrant markets, street food, colorful storefronts, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Its historic churches and mosques sit alongside modern cafés and bakeries, reflecting a blend of traditions.
Visitors experience an authentic Beirut vibe, with easy access to the city center and the surrounding hills.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic Mar Mikhael neighborhood, where you can explore charming streets lined with vibrant street art and quaint cafés. After wandering through the artistic alleys, make your way to the local artisan shops to admire handmade crafts. Grab a traditional Lebanese breakfast of mana'eesh at a nearby bakery, fueling you for the day ahead.
In the afternoon, delve into the local culture by visiting the National Museum of Beirut, which houses a vast collection of artifacts from Lebanon’s rich history. After your museum visit, enjoy lunch at a traditional Lebanese restaurant, sampling dishes like tabbouleh and kibbeh. Spend some time at the nearby Beirut Souks, where you can shop for unique souvenirs and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
As the sun sets, head to the waterfront promenade along the Corniche for a leisurely stroll and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Choose a cozy spot at one of the seaside cafés for dinner, indulging in fresh seafood while listening to the sound of waves. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local bar or music venue to experience Lebanon’s vibrant nightlife.
Begin your day in Borj Hammoud by visiting the local market, where you can immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of daily life. Browse through stalls filled with fresh produce, spices, and traditional goods, engaging with local vendors. Enjoy a traditional Lebanese breakfast at a market stand, savoring the flavors of local cheeses and olives.
After your market experience, take part in a cooking class at a local culinary school, where you can learn how to prepare classic Lebanese dishes. Spend the afternoon chopping, mixing, and tasting your delicious creations alongside other food enthusiasts. Once your meal is ready, enjoy the fruits of your labor as you share lunch with your classmates.
In the evening, visit a local cultural center where you can participate in a traditional dance workshop, learning the steps of the popular Lebanese folk dances. Afterward, enjoy a performance by local musicians, showcasing the rich heritage of Lebanese music. Wind down the night at a nearby café, sipping on aromatic mint tea and reflecting on your cultural experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $7-12 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🧺Monthly groceries for one | $150-250 |
| 🏠Rent (1-bedroom apartment, city center) | $350-700 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (within city) | $0.60-1.50 per km |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant, welcoming neighborhoods with strong community spirit
- Easy access to Beirut’s culture, food, and coastal scenery
- Authentic Armenian-Lebanese cuisine and markets
- Traffic congestion and limited public transport outside central areas
- High inflation and cost of living changes can affect budgets
- Some areas can be crowded and chaotic for first-time visitors
- "مرحبا" - Hello
- "من فضلك" - Please
- "شكراً" - Thank you
- "كم السعر؟" - How much is this?
- "أين الحمام؟" - Where is the bathroom?
- "هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟" - Do you speak English?
- "أنا لا أتحدث العربية جيداً" - I don’t speak Arabic well
- "أين السوق؟" - Where is the market?
Places to Visit in Borj Hammoud
Visit one of these nice places.
Bright storefronts, hanging textiles, and daily market life provide vibrant street photography opportunities.
Colorful wall art and traditional storefronts offer textures and color contrasts.
Elegant religious architecture with stone details that photograph well at golden hour.
Water, sky, and the city silhouette make for dramatic seaside shots after 5pm.
Food in Borj Hammoud
Borj Hammoud Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Armenian-style grilled meat, usually served with flatbread, grilled vegetables, and onions.
Must-Try!
Lentils and rice topped with caramelized onions; a simple, hearty vegetarian option.
Crunchy bulgur shells filled with spiced meat and pine nuts; widely available in markets and eateries.
Creamy chickpea dip finished with olive oil and paprika, best enjoyed with fresh bread from a bakery.
Buttery, lightly sweet pastry filled with nuts or cream; a local dessert staple.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Lanes filled with Armenian bakeries, spice stalls, and street snacks like falafel, shawarma, and fresh juices.
Hot falafel, shawarma, manakish, and grilled skewers from bustling carts and small stalls.
Covered markets with fresh produce, cheeses, herbs, and ready-to-eat bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a courteous handshake; dress modestly when visiting religious sites; show respect in conversations.
Be mindful of local customs during religious holidays; avoid public displays of anger and maintain polite interactions.
Safety
Tipping in Borj Hammoud
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 10-15% tip is common if not included as service charge; rounding up at casual spots is also acceptable.
Cash is widely used, especially for small shops; major credit cards are accepted in many restaurants and hotels; ATMs are widely available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming boulevards; great for walking tours and outdoor markets.
Hot and humid, often sunny; carry water and plan early-morning or late-evening outings.
Comfortable temps with lingering sea breezes; ideal for photography and hillside strolls.
Mild to cool with occasional rain; pack layers and a light rain jacket.
Borj Hammoud at Night
Hiking in Borj Hammoud
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible green space just outside central Beirut with gentle, short hikes and shaded paths.
Short day-hike routes in the surrounding hills offering panoramic views over the city and coast.
Airports
How to reach Borj Hammoud by plane.
Beirut's main international airport, located about 30-40 minutes from Bourj Hammoud by car, with taxis and car services available to the district.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A prominent community in Bourj Hammoud with churches, schools, and cultural institutions.
Diverse religious groups living in close proximity, contributing to a vibrant cultural mix.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, widely followed and played in schools and clubs.
Strong amateur leagues and street basketball culture in urban areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Borj Hammoud.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose mezze plates, hummus, mutabbal, mujaddara, falafel, and fresh vegetables; ask for dairy-free options or olive oil-based dips.