Things To Do
Downtown Beirut
Beirut · in the city The heart of the capital, rebuilt stone by stone. See the blue-domed Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque and St. George Maronite Cathedral standing side by side, the excavated Roman Baths, and the landmark clock tower at Nejmeh Square, then browse the shops at Beirut Souks. Mornings and late afternoons are best for walking.
Dinner & Drinks in Mar Mikhael and Gemmayzeh
Beirut · in the city Beirut’s most charming neighborhoods, full of old stone houses, the plant-lined Saint Nicholas Stairs, and some of the best restaurants and bars in the region. Start with dinner and stay for a nightcap. Beirut nights start late.
Zaitunay Bay
Beirut waterfront · in the city A breezy waterfront promenade lined with yachts, cafés, and restaurants, just a short walk from downtown. Grab an outdoor table for seafood or a late-afternoon drink and watch the boats come in. It pairs perfectly with a stroll through downtown.
The Corniche & Pigeon Rocks
Beirut · in the city Join the whole city for an evening stroll along the seafront promenade, ending at Raouché, where two great limestone rocks rise out of the Mediterranean. Time it for sunset and grab fresh juice or roasted corn from a cart.
Beiteddine Palace
Chouf Mountains · about 1 hour from Beirut A palace of arched courtyards, fountains, and painted ceilings built for Emir Bashir II in the early 1800s, with a remarkable collection of mosaics. In summer the palace often hosts the Beiteddine Art Festival, so check the program in spring. An open-air concert in the courtyard is unforgettable.
Baalbek
Bekaa Valley · about 1 hour 45 minutes from Beirut Some of the grandest Roman ruins anywhere. Stand beneath the six surviving columns of the Temple of Jupiter, step inside the remarkably well-preserved Temple of Bacchus, and see the colossal stone blocks still lying in the ancient quarry. Plan it as a full day with a local driver or guide, and go early to beat the midday heat.
Deir El Qamar
Chouf Mountains · about 50 minutes from Beirut Once the seat of Mount Lebanon’s emirs, this stone village has a picture-perfect square, a centuries-old mosque and palace, and cafés made for lingering over Turkish coffee. Nearby Moussa Castle, built by one man over several decades, is quirky and fun.
The Barouk Cedars
Shouf Biosphere Reserve · about 1 hour 30 minutes from Beirut Walk among Lebanon’s national symbol. The Barouk forest, part of the Shouf Biosphere Reserve, protects some of the country’s largest stands of cedar, with easy trails and cool mountain air even in July. Wear sneakers and bring a light layer.
Jeita Grotto
Keserwan · about 30 minutes from Beirut Two limestone caves filled with towering stalactites. Walk through the upper galleries, then glide through the lower cave by boat. The grotto is closed on Mondays, and it pairs perfectly with Harissa.
Harissa
Jounieh · about 30 minutes from Beirut Ride the téléférique from the bay of Jounieh up the mountainside, about nine minutes of sweeping views, to the white statue of Our Lady of Lebanon. Climb the spiral stairs at the top for the best view of the bay.
Byblos
North coast · about 45 minutes from Beirut One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities on earth. Explore the Crusader castle and ancient ruins, browse the old souk, and end with grilled fish by the little harbor. In summer, the Byblos International Festival brings concerts to the ruins.
Batroun
North coast · about 1 hour from Beirut Lebanon’s favorite summer beach town, with a Phoenician sea wall, a stone old town, beach clubs, and famous fresh lemonade. Wine lovers can head up into the hills to IXSIR winery.
Eat Your Way Through Lebanon
Everywhere Start the day with a warm man’oushe straight off the saj (za’atar or cheese), settle in for a long mezze lunch, finish with knafeh, and toast the evening with a glass of arak. Ask us for our favorite spots!