Things To Do
in Tripoli
Tripoli is a historic city situated on the coast of Lebanon, known for its rich cultural heritage and bustling markets. The city is home to numerous ancient landmarks such as the Crusader Castle of Saint-Gilles and the Great Mosque of Tripoli. Tripoli's vibrant souks offer a wide variety of goods, from spices and textiles to traditional crafts.
The city's diverse population, including Sunni Muslims and Christians, contributes to its unique atmosphere.
- "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 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by wandering through the charming streets of Tripoli's Old City. Discover historic landmarks like the Citadel of Tripoli and ancient mosques.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Lebanese dishes. Afterward, visit the souk for some shopping and to experience the local culture.
Wrap up your day with a relaxing walk along the Corniche. Enjoy the views of the Mediterranean sea as the sun sets.
Visit the Tala'a Al Nejjarin, the most famous street in the Old City. Marvel at the beautiful architecture and the traditional food stalls.
Head to the Citadel of Tripoli for a guided tour. Learn about its rich history and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant with stunning city views. Savor a mix of traditional and modern Lebanese cuisine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural heritage with numerous medieval sites
- Strategic coastal location with access to Mediterranean beaches
- Vibrant local markets and traditional Lebanese cuisine
- A close-knit community atmosphere with friendly locals
- Various festivals and events showcasing local traditions
- Economic challenges and high unemployment rates
- Political instability that can affect daily life
- Limited infrastructure and public services
- Security concerns due to regional tensions
- Possibility of experiencing sectarian divisions within the community
Best Activities in Tripoli
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful nature reserve with walking trails, birdwatching, and stunning coastal scenery.
Visit the historic sea castle located on the waterfront, offering picturesque views and a glimpse into Tripoli's past.
Enjoy a day by the sea at this popular beach, known for its clear waters and relaxed atmosphere.
Tours
Uncover the best of Tripoli with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Tripoli
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the city and coastline
Beautiful seaside area with picturesque views
Historical site with impressive views of ancient ruins
Food in Tripoli
Tripoli Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A beloved Lebanese dish made from finely ground meat, bulgur, and a mix of spices, often shaped into patties and deep-fried. Try it at Abdul Rahman Hallab & Sons, a renowned local bakery.
Must-Try!
Small, oil-cured eggplants stuffed with walnuts, red pepper, and garlic, creating a rich and tangy flavor. Visit Souk el-Haraj for authentic Makdous.
Lebanese pantry staples such as olives, olive oil, cheese, and honey. Get a taste of Mouneh at the Nasser Restaurant, known for preserving traditional Lebanese cuisine.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Tripoli better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering a wide variety of fresh produce, spices, and street food. Don't miss the savory falafel and sizzling shawarma wraps.
An annual event where local vendors showcase a diverse range of Lebanese street food, from sizzling meat skewers to sweet pastries and desserts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Tripoli, Lebanon, it is important to respect religious customs, including dress codes and behavior around places of worship. Modest attire and appropriate behavior while visiting mosques and churches are essential to show cultural sensitivity.
Greetings are an important part of Lebanese culture. It is customary to greet others with a handshake and maintain eye contact. Politeness and courtesy are highly valued, so using phrases like 'please' and 'thank you' are important in interactions.
Understanding social etiquette in Tripoli is crucial. This includes respecting personal space, avoiding sensitive topics like politics and religion, and being mindful of traditional gender roles in social interactions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Tripoli with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Tripoli
Ensure a smooth experience
In Tripoli, Lebanon, tipping is generally expected in restaurants, cafes, and for services such as taxi rides and hotel staff. A tip of around 5-10% of the bill is considered customary.
In Tripoli, Lebanon, cash is the preferred method of payment in many places, although credit and debit cards are becoming increasingly accepted, especially in larger establishments. It's advisable to have some cash on hand for smaller vendors and local markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Tripoli.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Tripoli, Lebanon. Temperatures are mild and wildflowers are blooming, making it a beautiful time to explore the city and surrounding areas.
Expect hot and dry weather in Tripoli during summer. It can get quite crowded with tourists, but it's a good time for beach activities and water sports.
Autumn offers pleasant weather with cooler temperatures, making it another great time to visit Tripoli. It's a good time for outdoor activities and enjoying the changing colors of the landscapes.
Winter in Tripoli can be mild and wet, with occasional snow in the mountains nearby. It's a quieter time for tourists, and a good opportunity to experience local culture and cuisine.
Tripoli at Night
Hiking in Tripoli
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A picturesque town known for its stunning scenery and access to the Qadisha Valley, Bsharri offers various hiking trails that showcase the beauty of Lebanon's natural landscape.
This nature reserve is famous for its ancient cedar trees and diverse wildlife. It features several hiking trails that allow visitors to explore its rich biodiversity and breathtaking views.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Qadisha Valley is known for its dramatic cliffs, lush greenery, and ancient monasteries. There are numerous hiking paths that lead to stunning vistas.
Offering a range of terrains and elevations, the Mount Lebanon range provides various hiking opportunities with beautiful views of the surrounding valleys and hills.
Famous for its winter skiing, Kfardebian also features beautiful hiking trails that can be explored during the warmer months, leading through lush landscapes and mountain experiences.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Tripoli through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Tripoli by plane.
The primary airport serving Beirut and the largest international airport in Lebanon, located approximately 86 km south of Tripoli.
The main airport serving Damascus, Syria, situated about 135 km northeast of Tripoli.
An international airport located in Adana, Turkey, approximately 185 km northwest of Tripoli.
An international airport located in Antalya, Turkey, situated around 375 km northwest of Tripoli.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest religious group in Tripoli, comprising a significant majority of the city's population.
A minority group in Tripoli, often concentrated in certain neighborhoods.
Various Christian denominations are represented in Tripoli, including Maronites, Orthodox, and Catholics, making up a smaller segment of the population.
A small community in Tripoli, with historical roots in the region but with a limited demographic presence.
A significant Palestinian refugee population resides in Tripoli, particularly in camps and urban areas.
The Soul of Tripoli
Discover the essence of Tripoli through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Tripoli, enjoyed by many local clubs and played in schools and public areas.
Basketball has a significant following, with many youth participating in local leagues and clubs, contributing to its popularity.
Volleyball is widely played, especially among women and youth, with various local teams competing in tournaments.
Handball has a growing number of enthusiasts, with clubs forming and young players developing skills in the sport.
Track and field events are popular in schools and during festivals, with opportunities for competitions at various levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tripoli.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Lebanese dishes are naturally vegetarian and vegan-friendly, such as falafel, tabbouleh, and fattoush. Look for 'fassoulia' (green bean stew) and 'warak enab' (stuffed grape leaves) at local eateries.
Several traditional Lebanese dishes are inherently gluten-free, including grilled meats, rice pilaf, and various mezze options like hummus and baba ghanoush. However, it's important to inquire about potential cross-contamination in kitchens.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Tripoli with these cultural adventures.
