Things To Do
Sightseeing & Essential Landmarks
Jeita Grotto: Lebanon’s breathtaking limestone cave system and a former finalist for the New 7 Wonders of Nature. Explore the upper and lower galleries and enjoy a serene boat ride. Raouche / Pigeon Rocks: Iconic natural rock formations in the sea; perfect for seaside views. Downtown & Beirut Souks: Vibrant streets, historic landmarks, and shopping and souvenirs. Zaitunay Bay: A modern marina with restaurants, cafes, and scenic walks along the water. Saifi Village: Cobblestone streets, galleries, and boutique shops. Home to the bride's favorite coffee shop, The Backburner. Gemmayzeh & Mar Mikhael: Trendy neighborhoods with street art, cafes, and quirky shops.
Dinner & Vibes
Lebanese & Middle Eastern Em Sherif – Classic Lebanese mezze in a luxurious setting European, Mediterranean & Modern Fusion Aubrac – French-inspired charcoal-grilled dishes and oysters Meat The Fish – Upscale seafood and land dishes in Saifi Village Cocteau – Elegant French restaurant with classic refined dishes Amavi – Italian wood-fired pizzas, carpaccio, and desserts Yamas – Greek food with late-night live performances Marly’s – Chic dining with seafood and katsu sando Japanese & Asian Maia – Japanese-Mediterranean fusion Mitsu-Ya – Japanese cuisine, including sushi Ô Sake – Sushi and Japanese dishes Rooftops & Lively Atmosphere Albergo Rooftop – Panoramic city views Mimi Beirut – Live music and great vibes Kii Beirut – Lively atmosphere
Cafes & Quick Bites
The Backburner – Artisanal coffee and pastries in Saifi Kalei Coffee – Specialty coffee in Mar Mikhael & Ras Beirut Em Sherif Café – Cozy cafe, great for hookah Maison d Beirut – Pastries, coffee, salads Ginette – Stylish brunch spot Cafe Younes – Casual coffee spot Barbar – Best shawarma in the world Sea Sweet – Delicious Kaak Bil Kanafeh Zaatar w Zeit & Roadster – Casual manoushe, burgers, and wraps, perfect for late night
Late night and Lifestyle
CLAP Beirut: A stunning "Sky Garden" overlooking Downtown. It combines Japanese fine dining with panoramic scenery and a vibrant, music-led atmosphere. Parasol: A chic and modern beach club right on the Mediterranean with a pool, restaurant, and ocean access. Great for lounging, sunset views, and Mediterranean vibes. Reservations required. Ceramics: Book a class at Way Studio (coffee & crafting), Ceramic KANVAS, Klei, or Cer Amour. Shopping: ABC Achrafieh (upscale boutiques) and ABC Verdun (shopping and entertainment).
Half Day Trips From Beirut
Batroun
Dining Patchi: Refined breakfast or lunch. Swiss Butter: Incredible steak frites (some say better than L’Entrecôte). Appetito Trattoria: Authentic Italian. Bebabel: Modern Lebanese. Buco: For the burger of your dreams. Old Cheers: A classic seaside cigar bar with live jazz. Beach Clubs (Reservations Recommended) Butlers: Mykonos-inspired; great music. Orchid: Chic seaside lounge. Kai: Elegant and boutique. Pierre & Friends: Iconic and high-energy. Treats & Chill Noix: The absolute best frozen yogurt. Bolero: Great for drinks and friends. Taste of Balou: Cozy, Instagram-ready vibes.
Jounieh
Take the Téléférique cable car from Jounieh up to Harissa for the iconic Our Lady of Lebanon statue and stunning panoramas. Nearby Eats: Olen (bar/lounge with views), Le Péché (seafood), or Sultan Brahim (phenomenal seafood).
Jbeil
One of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. Explore ancient ruins and the charming old souks. Nearby Stops: Le Canoë (Dbayeh) or Babel Bahr (Amchit) for luxury seaside dining.
Day Trips From Beirut
Tripoli
Plan for a full day (approx. 1.5 hours from Beirut). Start your morning at Hallab 1881 for lahme bil 3ajin and traditional sweets, wander the historic Old Souks, then around noon head to the coast to take a boat to the Palm Islands Nature Reserve (El Rakine or Jazeerat el Aranib) for an afternoon swim in the Mediterranean!
Baalbek
Plan for a full day (approx. 2 hours from Beirut). Explore the Roman ruins of Baalbek, one of the most significant and best-preserved temple complexes in the world, including the Temple of Jupiter, the largest Roman temple ever built, and the Temple of Bacchus, set against the stunning Bekaa Valley. Afterward, enjoy lunch at Al Shams for authentic Lebanese cuisine with panoramic views.
Mountain Trips
Chouf, Lebanon Great for a half-day trip or an overnight getaway. The bride loved staying at Beit Trad, or you can visit Bkerzay. Explore the eco-village, take a pottery class, enjoy the infinity pool, or stay overnight in one of their traditional stone houses. Other highlights Beit ed-Dine – Visit Mir Amin Palace for lunch and panoramic views Deir el Qamar – Historic village with Bachir Ice Cream and Moussa Castle Nabeh Merched (Nabak Murshid) – Traditional Lebanese lunch by a scenic mini waterfall Broummana, Lebanon Charming mountain town. Visit Kasr Fakhreddine or Mounier for lunch and dinner with panoramic views.