Things To Do
in Zahlé
Zahlé is the capital of Lebanon's Beqaa Valley, perched along the Orontes river with a backdrop of rolling vineyards and limestone hills. It blends a wine-country vibe with a lively market culture and a relaxed hillside atmosphere. The city serves as a gateway to Bekaa’s wineries, historic sites, and mountain scenery, all within a short drive of Beirut.
Expect a hospitable, food-driven scene with citrus-scented air and views that stretch across the valley to the mountains.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through Zahlé's charming historic center, where you can admire the beautiful traditional architecture. Visit the iconic Church of Our Lady of Deliverance, a stunning example of Lebanese craftsmanship. Enjoy a traditional Lebanese breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh labneh, za'atar, and warm bread.
In the afternoon, head to the nearby Beqaa Valley, renowned for its fertile vineyards and breathtaking landscapes. Take a guided tour of one of the local wineries, learning about the wine-making process and sampling exquisite Lebanese wines. Afterward, visit the quaint Souk el-Tayeb, where you can find artisanal products and local delicacies.
As the sun sets, return to Zahlé and enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant along the Berdawni River. Indulge in traditional dishes like kebabs and tabbouleh while listening to live music. Conclude your evening by taking a leisurely walk along the riverbanks, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the town.
Begin your day with a scenic drive through the Beqaa Valley, surrounded by stunning mountain views and sprawling vineyards. Visit the famous Château Ksara winery, where you can learn about the history of wine production in Lebanon. Enjoy a tasting session, sampling a variety of their renowned wines alongside delicious local cheeses.
After your wine tasting, head to another esteemed winery, such as Domaine Wardy, for an afternoon of exploration and indulgence. Participate in a guided tour of the vineyard and cellar, and engage in another tasting session featuring their unique blends. Don't forget to take in the picturesque surroundings, perfect for some memorable photographs.
As the day winds down, return to Zahlé and treat yourself to a delightful dinner at a local restaurant specializing in Lebanese cuisine. Choose dishes that pair beautifully with the wines you've tasted throughout the day. Spend the evening relaxing at a café, sipping on refreshing arak and enjoying the lively ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚕Local taxi ride (short distance) | $2-6 |
| 🏨1 night in a budget hotel | $40-60 |
| 🥖Bread or groceries | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Bekaa wine country and scenic mountain views
- Warm hospitality and abundant fresh produce
- Limited public transport in some areas
- Occasional road congestion and winding mountain roads
- "مرحبا" - Hello
- "كيف حالك؟" - How are you?
- "شكرًا" - Thank you
- "من فضلك" - Please
- "كم السعر؟" - How much is this?
- "أين الحمام؟" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Zahlé
Visit one of these nice places.
Narrow alleys, limestone facades, and warm lantern light create atmospheric editorial shots and street photography opportunities.
Terraced vineyards with a dramatic backdrop of the Bekaa plains; golden hour light over the valley is ideal for landscape photography.
Panoramic views over the river and surrounding hills; a peaceful spot for sunset photography and wide-angle landscape shots.
Food in Zahlé
Zahlé Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Raw lamb dish served with mint, onion, and olive oil; best found at traditional Lebanese eateries in Zahle.
Must-Try!
Baked kibbeh with layer of filling and crispy crust; a Bekaa specialty often featured on family menus.
A spread of hummus, mutabbal, tabbouleh, salads, grape leaves, and grilled vegetables to share; widely available at local restaurants.
Lentils and rice topped with fried onions; a comforting, vegetarian-friendly option often served with yogurt or salad.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market area where you can sample fresh fruit, olives, herbs, bread, manakish, and grilled snacks from street vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a friendly 'Salam' or 'Marhaba.' Use the right hand for handshakes and gestures. Dress modestly in religious sites; ask before taking photos of people.
Safety
Tipping in Zahlé
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 10-15% tip is customary if service is not included. Small tips to hotel staff or tour guides are appreciated but not mandatory.
Cash is widely accepted, especially in markets and smaller establishments. Credit/debit cards are increasingly common in larger restaurants and hotels, but carrying some cash is wise in Zahle.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming orchards; perfect for street photography and vineyard strolls.
Hot and dry; carry water, wear hats, and seek shade in the hills and winery courtyards.
Harvest season; grape picking activities and cooler evenings—great for outdoor exploration and photography.
Cool to mild with occasional rain; some outdoor spots are best in the day; layer up for hillside walks.
Zahlé at Night
Hiking in Zahlé
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Loop trail through vineyard hills with expansive valley views; moderate difficulty and 3–5 hours.
Gentle forested hills just outside Zahle offering spring wildflowers and shaded paths for a relaxed hike.
Airports
How to reach Zahlé by plane.
Main international gateway to Lebanon; about a 45–90 minute drive to Zahle depending on traffic and route.
Smaller regional airport near Zahlé; serves occasional domestic or charter flights and may be useful for private travel or connecting routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of Zahlé’s population, historically influential in culture and trade.
Diverse religious communities typical of the Bekaa region, contributing to the area’s cultural fabric.
Armenians and seasonal agricultural workers contribute to the town’s diverse makeup.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Lebanon, with local clubs and informal matches in towns like Zahle.
Widely played in schools and community centers; casual games and local leagues occur in towns and clubs.
Outdoor activities such as tennis clubs and scenic hiking routes are common in the Bekaa hills.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zahlé.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Lebanese vegetarian options are plentiful: mezze like hummus, mutabbal, tabbouleh, falafel, and grilled vegetables. When dining out, ask for dishes prepared without meat stock or animal rennet in cheese; request olive oil-based dressings and dairy-free options if needed.