Things To Do
in Halba
Halba is a lively market town in northern Lebanon, serving as a regional hub in Akkar Governorate. Its labyrinth of narrow lanes, bustling souks, and historic mosques reflect centuries of trade and culture. The town sits a short drive from the Mediterranean coast, offering a mix of agricultural surroundings and urban energy.
Visitors are welcomed by warm hospitality, flavorful street food, and panoramic views of the surrounding hills.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the ancient ruins of Baalbek, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through the colossal Roman temples and discover their impressive architecture while learning about their historical significance. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café, savoring some local pastries and rich Lebanese coffee.
Continue your exploration by visiting the nearby town of Anjar, known for its stunning Umayyad ruins. Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the historical context and unique design of the structures. Enjoy lunch at a traditional Lebanese restaurant where you can indulge in authentic dishes.
Return to Halba and enjoy a peaceful evening walk through the town's charming streets. Head to a local eatery for dinner, relishing fresh mezze and grilled meats. Cap off the night by joining the locals at a café, soaking in the evening ambiance and enjoying tea or arak under the stars.
Travel to Tripoli, Lebanon's second-largest city, and start your day at the old souks. Stroll through the bustling marketplaces, experiencing the vibrant city life while shopping for handicrafts and local goods. Don’t forget to try the famous Tripoli sweets for breakfast.
Visit the Citadel of Tripoli, an imposing fortress that offers breathtaking views of the city. Explore the rich history contained within its walls and admire the surrounding architecture. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a seaside restaurant, taking advantage of the fresh catch of the day.
As the sun sets, make your way to the picturesque Corniche and enjoy a peaceful evening by the sea. Grab dinner at a coastal café and watch the fishermen bring in their catch along with the lighting of the charming waterfront. Engage with the locals over coffee as you reflect on your day's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🥗Vegetarian lunch or mezze | $3-6 |
| 🚌Local transport (short ride) | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel night | $25-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm hospitality and strong food culture
- Access to coastal and rural landscapes within reasonable travel
- Affordable prices and a slower pace of life
- Relatively compact town center easy to explore on foot
- Limited nightlife and international dining options
- Infrastructure and road conditions can be uneven
- Smaller selection of upscale accommodations compared to bigger cities
- Occasional regional tensions can affect travel plans
- "مرحبا" - Hello
- "كيف حالك؟" - How are you?
- "شكراً" - Thank you
- "من فضلك" - Please
- "كم السعر؟" - How much is this?
- "أين الحمام؟" - Where is the bathroom?
- "هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟" - Do you speak English?
- "أنا من الولايات المتحدة" - I am from the United States
- "مساعدة" - Help
Places to Visit in Halba
Visit one of these nice places.
Vibrant market lanes with textured walls, colorful awnings and everyday activity.
Intricate arches and stonework provide strong contrast for architectural photography.
Dramatic horizon over the Mediterranean with sunset colors on clear days.
Rural landscapes with rows of olive trees and distant hills perfect for wide angle shots.
Food in Halba
Halba Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Lebanese flatbread brushed with olive oil and sesame, best enjoyed fresh from a local bakery.
Must-Try!
Crispy or baked bulgur croquettes filled with spiced minced meat, a staple at many Halba eateries.
An assortment of dips like hummus, baba ganoush, muhammara, tabbouleh and fresh vegetables.
Lamb or chicken skewers served with tahini sauce and a bright herb salad.
Grilled fish or seafood stews when you are near the coast, seasoned with lemon and herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where vendors sell produce, olives, bread, spices and sweets.
Fried falafel, warm falafel bread sandwiches, grilled halloumi and sweet pastries typical of the region.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite hand shake or a kiss on one cheek among acquaintances. Use formal titles when addressing elders.
Dress modestly in public spaces and religious sites. Avoid loud behavior in conservative areas.
Ask for permission before photographing people at religious sites and respect signs and dress codes.
Safety
Tipping in Halba
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and cafes, around 5 to 10 percent. You can round up the bill for small services.
Cash is widely accepted; cards are increasingly accepted in larger shops and hotels; ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry inland with refreshing coastal breezes. Hydration and sun protection are essential. Expect lively markets and day trips to the coast.
Mild temperatures with clear skies. Great for outdoor walking and photography without peak heat.
Cool and occasionally rainy with cooler evenings. Pack warm layers and check road conditions for rural routes.
Flowering landscapes and markets come alive. Ideal time for hiking and street photography with vibrant colors.
Halba at Night
Hiking in Halba
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rural hiking route through rolling hills, olive groves and hamlets with panoramic views.
Light coastal hikes along the Mediterranean with opportunities for sea views and birding.
Airports
How to reach Halba by plane.
Main international gateway to Lebanon, located near Beirut and connected to major cities.
Closest international option across the border; access may be restricted and requires appropriate travel permissions.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Sunni Muslim communities with minorities including Christians and others.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Lebanon with local leagues and enthusiastic fans.
A widely played sport with community clubs and school programs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Halba.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Halba you can enjoy mezze style plates, salads, hummus, baba ganoush, nuts and breads. Ask for no meat stock and go for olive oil based dressings and lemon.