Things To Do
in Qâna
Qâna, Lebanon is a hillside village set among olive groves in southern Lebanon, offering a calm snapshot of rural Levantine life and sweeping views over the Litani River valley. Its stone houses and winding lanes reflect a long history of hospitality and family-run traditions. The surrounding countryside invites easy day trips to nearby towns like Nabatieh, Bint Jbeil, and Marjayoun, where markets and mezze are a daily delight.
Visitors come for the scenery, historic churches and mosques, and the chance to slow down in a region known for resilient communities and warm welcomes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey at the stunning ancient ruins in Qâna, where history breathes through the stones. Wander through the remnants of Roman columns and structures, taking in the architectural marvels that define this historic site. As the sun rises higher, the soft light illuminates the intricate details carved into stone, making for breathtaking photographs.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby café that offers traditional Lebanese cuisine. Savor dishes such as tabbouleh and grilled kebabs while relishing the views of the beautiful hills surrounding Qâna. Take some time to bask in the warm sun, rejuvenating your energy for the afternoon adventures ahead.
As the day winds down, join a guided tour to experience a mesmerizing sunset from a vantage point overlooking the valley. The changing colors of the sky, coupled with the serene landscape, will create an unforgettable atmosphere. Cap off the evening with a visit to a local wine bar, where you can sample some of Lebanon's finest wines.
Start the day with a visit to Qâna's bustling market, filled with vibrant stalls selling everything from fresh produce to traditional handicrafts. Engaging with local artisans, you can learn about the creative processes behind their crafts and perhaps purchase a unique souvenir. The aromas of spices and baked goods wafting through the air will surely tempt your taste buds.
Take part in a cooking class where you'll learn to prepare some classic Lebanese dishes under the guidance of a skilled chef. The hands-on experience will deepen your appreciation of the local cuisine, and you’ll get to dine on the creations you've prepared. After lunch, explore the beautiful churches and mosques that offer insight into Qâna's rich religious heritage.
Spend your evening attending a cultural show featuring traditional Lebanese music and dance. The lively atmosphere will allow you to immerse yourself in the local culture and share this experience with fellow travelers. Wrap up the night with a stroll through the quaint streets, enjoying the warm hospitality of this charming town.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $1-3 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two (mid-range restaurant) | $15-30 |
| 🚌One-way public transport | $0.50-2 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night (budget to mid-range) | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Tranquil countryside with genuine hospitality
- Rich regional cuisine and mezze culture
- Accessible day trips to Nabatieh and Marjayoun
- Limited nightlife and fewer large-scale amenities
- Public transport can be sparse outside towns
- Border-region travel may require extra caution and planning
- "مرحبا" - Hello
- "صباح الخير" - Good morning
- "من فضلك" - Please
- "شكراً" - Thank you
- "نعم" - Yes
- "لا" - No
- "هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟" - Do you speak English?
- "أين الحمام؟" - Where is the bathroom?
- "كم الثمن؟" - How much does this cost?
- "لذيذ!" - Delicious!
Places to Visit in Qâna
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic views of olive groves, terraced fields, and the Litani valley at golden hour.
Layered hillsides with white-washed stone walls and reflecting light between terraces.
Narrow, winding streets with traditional houses—great for portrait and detail shots.
Wide river valley views with distant hills; excellent for landscape photography.
Food in Qâna
Qâna Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Lentils with rice and caramelized onions, a staple served with yogurt or salad.
Must-Try!
A spiced mix of bulgur, minced meat, and onions; often served with fresh herbs.
Creamy chickpea dip with olive oil and lemon, enjoyed with warm flatbread.
Grape leaves stuffed with rice, herbs, and sometimes meat.
Flatbread topped with thyme and sesame; a quick, iconic Lebanese bite.
Creamy strained yogurt spread, drizzled with olive oil and served with bread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market area in Nabatieh for fresh produce, bread, spices, and regional snacks.
Local stalls offering dairy, herbs, olives, and baked goods with a welcoming, village atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a warm “Marhaba” or “Salam”; hospitality is highly valued and hosts typically offer tea or coffee.
Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered.
Bartering is common but done with a smile and patience; polite conversation helps in negotiations.
Ask permission before photographing people or private spaces; some homes may not want to be photographed.
Safety
Tipping in Qâna
Ensure a smooth experience
Generally 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included; small tips for rural cafés and taxi drivers are appreciated but not obligatory.
Cash is widely used in rural areas; many places in towns accept cards, especially mid-range establishments, but carry local currency for smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry; bring sun protection, water, and breathable clothing. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography and walking.
Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes; ideal for hiking and outdoor markets.
Warm days and cooler nights; harvest season brings fresh produce and lighter crowds.
Mild to cool with occasional rain; pack a windbreaker and bring layers for cool evenings—some rural paths may be muddy.
Qâna at Night
Hiking in Qâna
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rugged riverbank trails with scenic overlooks and opportunities to observe rural life.
The hillside network around Marjayoun offers panoramic views and photo-worthy landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Qâna by plane.
Main international gateway; approximately 120-160 km north of Qâna, typically 2-3 hours by car depending on traffic and route.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant majority in southern Lebanon, shaping local culture, cuisine, and traditions.
Present in nearby towns and villages with historic churches and families contributing to the regional mosaic.
Found in some nearby highland areas and surrounding villages; contribute to the region’s cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across southern Lebanon; local matches and informal games are common.
Played in community centers and schools; local leagues exist in larger towns.
Common in beaches and community spaces nearby; informal tournaments occur during summer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Qâna.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Lebanese cuisine offers abundant vegetarian options like mujadara, hummus, falafel, tabbouleh, mutabal, and stuffed grape leaves. When ordering, ask for no meat stock in soups and avoid broths that aren’t clearly labeled vegetarian.
Meat dishes are generally halal; if uncertain, request halal preparation or look for establishments that clearly label halal options.
Many dishes are naturally gluten-free (e.g., hummus, grilled meats, salads). Avoid bulgur-based dishes like tabbouleh and kibbeh unless prepared gluten-free; request breads made with gluten-free flour if available.