Walk through Mar Mikhael & Gemmayzeh, packed with trendy cafés, rooftop bars, and street art. Explore Downtown Beirut where you can find a mix of modern architecture and historical landmarks from the remains of the Phoenician and Roman city, then visit the National Museum for a dose of history. By sunset, head to Zaytouna Bay to grab a bite, then dive into Beirut’s legendary nightlife—rooftop cocktails at Iris and party at Club Soda on a weekend night.
Caves, Views & Old-World Charm - Start your day at Jeita Grotto - also called the 8th wonder of the world, a limestone cave system with stalactites and an underground river. Next, visit Harissa, home to Our Lady of Lebanon. Ride the cable car (Téléférique) up the mountain for panoramic views of the coastline.
Hiking lovers, pack up your hiking shoes and check out some trails in Lebanon. Here's one of our favorite hikes: The Chouwen trail leads to the picturesque Chouwen Lake, surrounded by lush greenery and offering opportunities for swimming. The hike is moderately challenging. You can find more hikes here https://www.lebanontrail.org and always happy to give you more recommendations.
Continue to Byblos, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities and home to the world's 1st alphabet. Explore its ancient ruins, Byblos Castle, and the charming old souks. End the day with a seaside dinner at the picturesque harbor, enjoying fresh seafood and a Mediterranean sunset
Palaces, Cobblestone & Fresh Air - Hike in the Chouf Cedar Reserve, home to Lebanon’s most pristine cedar forests. Visit Beiteddine Palace, once home to the notorious Emir Bashir, an Ottoman-era architectural marvel with intricate mosaics, grand courtyards, and lavish interiors. Then, wander through the storybook village of Deir al-Qamar, filled with red-roofed houses and cobblestone streets, and check Mir Amin Palace, the residence of Emir Bashir’s family, or Deir Al Oumara, two elegant Ottoman palace-turned-luxury hotels to grab a bite and sip on some tea with panoramic views of the mountains and valleys.
Head to Ixsir Winery in the Batroun mountains. Take a tour of the eco-friendly winery, learn about Lebanon’s winemaking traditions, and enjoy a wine-tasting session with views of rolling vineyards.
Coastal Charm, Fine Wine & History - Start your day in Anfeh, a coastal gem often called Lebanon’s Santorini for its white and blue seaside houses. Take a dip in the Mediterranean Sea and relax at one of the beachfront cafés overlooking the turquoise waters. End the day in Batroun, a charming seaside town known for its Phoenician seawall, historic old souks, and lively beach bars. Wander through its stone-paved streets, sip on fresh Batroun lemonade at Hilmi's,get drawn in by the smell of brioche at Koko Bakery, and catch the sunset at Bolero or Almaza Bay
Mountains, Heritage & Nature - For an unforgettable experience, hike through Wadi Qannoubine or the Holy Valley. This UNESCO-listed site is dotted with centuries-old monasteries and caves, once home to Christian hermits and monks escaping persecution. Take in the serene landscapes and the timeless beauty. Head to The Cedars of God, home to Lebanon’s ancient and majestic cedar trees featured on the Lebanese flag. Walk among these towering symbols of resilience. Then, visit Bcharre, the hometown of famous poet and writer of 'The Prophet', Gibran Khalil Gibran. Pass by Ehden, a picturesque mountain town and visit the Saydet al-Hosn (Lady of the Fortress) Church, perched on a hill with spectacular views. Enjoy authentic Lebanese mezze and taste their specialty kebbe and sip on arak, Lebanon’s traditional anise-flavored drink.