Lebanon

Lebanon: general info for travelers

Lebanon is a small country located in the Middle East, bordered by Syria to the north and east and Israel to the south. It is home to a diverse population of around 6 million people, including both Muslims and Christians. Lebanon is known for its beautiful Mediterranean coastline, stunning mountain ranges, and rich history and culture. Its capital city, Beirut, is a hub for arts and culture, and is famous for its nightlife, markets, and delicious cuisine. Despite its natural beauty and cultural heritage, Lebanon has faced challenges in recent years due to political instability and economic difficulties. However, the country remains a popular destination for tourists seeking to experience the unique blend of old-world charm and modern luxury that Lebanon has to offer.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Lebanon, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Lebanon: places to visit

Certainly, I'm happy to provide some information to organize a trip to Lebanon. Here are some main places to visit in Lebanon and what makes them special: 1. Beirut. The capital city of Lebanon, Beirut is known for its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and beautiful waterfront views. Visitors can explore the historic Corniche, admire the iconic Pigeon Rocks, visit the National Museum of Beirut, and experience the bustling nightlife.
2. Byblos. One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Byblos is a fascinating destination steeped in history. Visitors can explore the ancient ruins of the city, which date back to 5000 BC, and visit the Crusader castle and the historic souks.
3. Jeita Grotto. This stunning natural wonder is a system of limestone caves with underground rivers and lakes. Visitors can take a boat tour through the caves or walk through the stunning galleries to admire the incredible rock formations.
4. Baalbek. Home to some of the largest and best-preserved Roman ruins in the world, Baalbek is a must-visit for history buffs. Visitors can explore the ruins of the Temple of Jupiter, the Temple of Bacchus, and the Temple of Venus.
5. Cedars of God. This picturesque forest is home to over 400 ancient cedar trees, some of which are over 1,000 years old. Visitors can take a hike through the forest to admire the stunning views and learn about the history and significance of the cedars.
These are just a few of the many incredible places to visit in Lebanon. Each destination offers something unique and special for visitors to enjoy.
There is more to see and do in Lebanon: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Lebanon: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Lebanon, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Lebanon experiences a Mediterranean climate with four distinct seasons: Spring (March to May), Summer (June to August), Fall (September to November), and Winter (December to February). In Spring, the weather is mild with occasional rain, and the nature comes alive with blooming flowers and greenery. Summer is considered the peak season for tourism in Lebanon, as the weather is sunny and hot with average temperatures ranging from 25 to 33°C. It is the perfect time for outdoor activities such as swimming, hiking, and visiting tourist attractions.
Fall is a beautiful season to visit Lebanon, with moderate temperature and a colorful landscape. The weather is usually sunny and mild, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking and wine tasting.
Winter is a great season for skiing and snowboarding, as Lebanon has several ski resorts. The temperature can drop below zero, and snowfall is common.
Overall, the best time to visit Lebanon depends on your personal preferences and the activities you plan to do. However, Spring and Fall are considered the best times for tourism due to the mild weather, fewer crowds, and attractive prices.

Lebanon: activities and what to do

Lebanon offers a variety of activities and sports to enjoy during your holiday. Some popular options include: 1. Skiing or snowboarding in the winter months at Faraya Mzaar or the Cedars ski resorts 2. Hiking or trekking in the lush landscapes of the mountains or the Cedar forest 3. Water sports such as swimming, snorkeling or scuba diving in the Mediterranean Sea 4. Paragliding over the countryside or along the coastline 5. Rock climbing on the beautiful cliffs of Tannourine 6. Cycling or Mountain biking in the various regions 7. Visiting historical sites such as the Temple of Bacchus and the Ruins of Byblos.
Lebanon also has a rich culinary and cultural heritage to explore, making it a unique and exciting destination for any traveler.

Lebanon: few words on history and culture

Lebanon has a rich history and culture that dates back to ancient times. The country has been inhabited since prehistoric times and has been conquered and ruled by various civilizations, including the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Crusaders, Ottomans, and French. This diverse history has left its mark on the country's architecture, cuisine, and traditions.
Lebanon's culture is a blend of Eastern and Western influences. The country is known for its vibrant music scene, with a popular mix of traditional Arabic, pop, and Western-inspired music. Lebanese cuisine is also famous around the world, with dishes such as tabbouleh, kafta, and shawarma.
The country is home to a variety of religions, including Christianity, Islam, Judaism, and Druze. This diversity contributes to Lebanon's unique cultural heritage, with many religious sites and festivals celebrated throughout the year.
Overall, Lebanon's history and culture offer a fascinating glimpse into the country's rich past and vibrant present.

Lebanon: how to move around on holiday

There are a few ways to reach and travel in Lebanon. Here are some options: 1. By plane - There are two international airports in Lebanon - Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport and the smaller Beirut-Gemmayze Airport. Many airlines offer direct flights to Beirut from various cities around the world.
2. By bus - Several bus companies offer services between Beirut and neighboring countries such as Syria, Jordan, and Turkey. Local buses are also available for traveling within Lebanon.
3. By car - Renting a car is a good option for exploring Lebanon, as it gives more flexibility and independence. However, be aware that driving in Lebanon can be challenging due to traffic congestion and narrow roads.
4. By taxi - Taxis are widely available in Lebanon, including the shared taxis called "service" that run on set routes.
Once in Lebanon, there are many options to travel around the country. You can use local buses, taxis, rental cars, or hire a private driver/guide. It's advisable to research and plan your trip in advance to determine the best mode of transport for your needs and budget. To hire a car to visit Lebanon, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Lebanon: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Lebanon with a full stomach:D
Lebanese cuisine is known for its delicious and diverse dishes that are full of flavor. Some of the main typical foods of Lebanon are: 1. Tabouli - a salad made with parsley, tomatoes, bulgur wheat, mint, lemon juice, and olive oil. It is refreshing and healthy.
2. Hummus - a dip made with chickpeas, garlic, tahini, and lemon juice. It is creamy and delicious and is often served with pita bread.
3. Baba Ghanoush - a dip made with roasted eggplant, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice. It is a smoky and flavorful dip that can also be served with pita bread.
4. Kibbeh - a meat dish made with ground beef or lamb, bulgur wheat, and spices. It can be shaped into balls or patties and is often served with yogurt.
5. Falafel - a vegetarian dish made with ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices. It is fried and served in pita bread with vegetables and tahini sauce.
6. Shawarma - a meat dish made with chicken or lamb that is marinated in spices and then grilled. It is often served in pita bread with vegetables and sauce.
7. Manakish - a flatbread that is topped with a mixture of za'atar (a blend of herbs and spices), olive oil, and sometimes cheese. It is often eaten for breakfast or as a snack.
These are just a few examples of the delicious and diverse foods you can find in Lebanon.

Lebanon: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Lebanon can be a relatively expensive country for tourists as the cost of living is generally high. Accommodation and dining expenses can vary depending on the location and level of luxury. However, there are also budget-friendly options available, especially for accommodation and meals in local restaurants and street food vendors. Additionally, transportation costs can be reasonable if using buses or shared taxis instead of private transportation services. Overall, expenses in Lebanon can be managed by carefully planning ahead and doing some research in advance.

Lebanon: where to find accodation

There are several websites where you can look for accommodation in Lebanon, such as: 1. Booking.com 2. Airbnb 3. Agoda 4. Expedia 5. Hotels.com 6. Tripadvisor 7. Kayak 8. Trivago 9. Hostelworld It's a good idea to compare prices and read reviews from other travelers before making a reservation. Also, keep in mind the location and amenities you prefer.
You can check hotel prices in Lebanon here:
Booking.com

Lebanon: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the Lebanese Ministry of Tourism, Lebanon welcomed around 1.9 million tourists in 2019. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of tourists has significantly decreased in 2020.
In general, there are certain times of the year that tend to be more crowded than others. The summer months of June through August are popular for beach and outdoor activities, while the winter months of December through February are popular for skiing in the mountains. Holidays and events such as Christmas, New Year's Eve, and Easter can also be busy times for tourism. Additionally, major cultural and music festivals such as the Beirut International Film Festival and the Beirut International Jazz Festival can draw large crowds. It is advisable to plan your trip in advance based on your interests and preferences, and to book accommodations and activities well ahead of time during peak tourist season.
Lebanon is generally a safe country for tourists, but it is important to stay aware of the potential risks. The country has experienced some political instability and sporadic outbreaks of violence in the past, but the situation has improved greatly in recent years. There are some areas in Lebanon that should be avoided or approached with caution, particularly near the borders with Syria and Israel. It is also advisable to avoid large crowds and political demonstrations, as they can become violent at times.
Overall, Lebanon is a beautiful country with a rich cultural heritage and friendly people. By taking common sense precautions and staying aware of your surroundings, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Lebanon.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Lebanon on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Lebanon: events for tourists

Lebanon has a lot of interesting events throughout the year. Here are some of the most popular ones: 1. Beirut International Film Festival: This takes place in October and showcases films from all around the world.
2. Baalbek International Festival: This is a music festival that takes place in the ancient ruins of Baalbek, featuring world-renowned performers from July to August.
3. Les Nuits Nostalgie et Cheyenne Productions: These are a series of open-air concerts featuring Lebanese and international singers and bands that usually takes place during the summer.
4. Byblos International Festival: This festival is held every year in July and August and showcases different types of music, including pop, rock, jazz, and classical.
5. Tyre International Festival: This festival takes place in the city of Tyre during July and August and features activities such as music, theater, and cultural shows.
6. Al Bustan International Festival of Music and the Arts: This festival is held every year in February and March and features performances by artists and musicians from all over the world.
7. Beirut Art Fair: This event takes place in September and is considered the most important contemporary art fair in the Middle East. These are just some of the many events that take place in Lebanon. Each year there are several new and exciting events added to the list.

Lebanon: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Lebanon, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
A two-week itinerary for Lebanon could look like this: Day 1-3: Beirut Spend the first few days in the capital, Beirut. Visit the National Museum of Beirut, Pigeon Rocks, stroll through the city center and enjoy the busy nightlife of the city.
Day 4-5: Byblos Just an hour north of Beirut by car, Byblos is a historic coastal town with Roman ruins, a medieval castle, and a beautiful souk, full of colorful shops.
Day 6-8: Tripoli Travel to the northern city of Tripoli to explore the beautiful architecture of the city's old souk, visit the Saint-Gilles Castle and relax by the beach.
Day 9-10: Kadisha Valley Head to the breathtaking Kadisha Valley, located in the Mount Lebanon mountain range, to explore the stunning monasteries built into the rocky terrain.
Day 11-12: Baalbek Take a day trip to the ancient Roman city of Baalbek, known for its temples such as the Temple of Bacchus, and the Temple of Jupiter.
Day 13-14: Tyre Finish off your two weeks in Lebanon by visiting the southern town of Tyre before returning to Beirut. Highlights of this city include the Tyre Hippodrome, the Al Mina archaeological site, and the old city.
This itinerary should give you a great introduction to the country, covering cultural and historical spots, as well as beautiful nature and beaches.

Lebanon: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Lebanon described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Aley is a town in the Mount Lebanon Governorate of Lebanon. It is located around 17 km (11 mi) uphill from Beirut on the main road that leads to Damascus, and it has an elevation of around 800 m... CONTINUE here for a trip to Aley
- Anjar is a small town located in the Bekaa Valley of Lebanon, near the Syrian border. It was founded in the 8th century AD by the Umayyad Caliphate as a commercial center for silk production, and late... CONTINUE here for a trip to Anjar
- Baalbek is a city located in the Beqaa Valley of Lebanon, known for its ancient temples and ruins dating back to the Roman era. The most famous landmark in Baalbek is the Temple of Bacchus, which is c... CONTINUE here for a trip to Baalbek
- Barouk is a village in the Chouf district of Lebanon, located in the heart of the Barouk Mountain. It is situated approximately 48 kilometers southeast of Beirut and is known for its natural beauty, p... CONTINUE here for a trip to Barouk
- Batroun is a coastal city located in the Northern Governorate of Lebanon. It is known for its beautiful beaches and historical landmarks, such as the Phoenician wall and the Saint Stephen's Cathedral.... CONTINUE here for a trip to Batroun
- Bcharre is a small town located in the north of Lebanon, known for its stunning natural scenery and rich cultural heritage. It is situated at an altitude of around 1,400 meters above sea level, making... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bcharre
- Beirut is the capital and largest city of Lebanon, located on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea. It has a rich history dating back thousands of years and offers a mix of modern and traditiona... CONTINUE here for a trip to Beirut
- Beiteddine is a small town in the Chouf District of Lebanon, located about 45 kilometers southeast of Beirut. It is known for its historical significance and its well-preserved palace, which was built... CONTINUE here for a trip to Beiteddine
- Broummana is a mountainous town located in the Metn District of Lebanon, about 20 kilometers northeast of Beirut. It is situated at an altitude of 800 meters above sea level, providing visitors with a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Broummana
- Byblos is a historic coastal city in Lebanon, located about 37 km north of Beirut. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, dating back to at least 5000 BC. Byblos is known ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Byblos
- Chouf is a district located in the Mount Lebanon Governorate of Lebanon, about 30 kilometers southeast of Beirut. It is known for its natural beauty, cedar forests, and historical landmarks such as th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chouf
- Deir el Qamar is a village located in the Chouf District of Lebanon, about 35 kilometers southeast of Beirut. It was the capital of Mount Lebanon during the 16th and 17th centuries, and its historical... CONTINUE here for a trip to Deir el Qamar
- Deir Mimas is a small village located in southern Lebanon, specifically in the Tyre District. It is situated on top of a hill overlooking the surrounding areas and is known for its beautiful landscape... CONTINUE here for a trip to Deir Mimas
- Ehden is a beautiful small town located in the North Governorate of Lebanon, about 1,500 meters above sea level. It is known for its pleasant weather, stunning mountain views, and historical sites, su... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ehden
- Faqra is a mountainous village located in the Keserwan District of Lebanon. At an altitude of 1,550 meters above sea level, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Faqra is known ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Faqra
- Hammana is a small town located in the Mount Lebanon Governorate of Lebanon. It is situated at an altitude of 1,200 meters above sea level, and it is surrounded by mountains and valleys. The town is k... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hammana
- Jbeil, also known as Byblos, is a coastal city located in the Mount Lebanon Governorate of Lebanon. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and is well known for its ancient... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jbeil
- Jezzine is a historic town in the South Governorate of Lebanon, located around 22 km southeast of Sidon. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the famous Jezzine Waterfall, as well as... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jezzine
- Jounieh is a coastal city located in the Keserwan District in Lebanon, about 16 kilometers north of Beirut. It is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and historic landmarks such as the... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jounieh
- Kfardain is a small village situated in the Keserwan District of the Mount Lebanon Governorate in Lebanon. It is located 26 kilometers northeast of Beirut, the capital city of Lebanon. The village is ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kfardain
- Kfardebian is a mountainous village located in the Keserwan District of Lebanon, approximately 40 kilometers northeast of Beirut. It is known for its beautiful scenery, fresh air, and ski resorts duri... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kfardebian
- Kfarhbab is a village in the Keserwan District of Lebanon, located about 15 kilometers north of Beirut. The village is known for its natural beauty, as it is surrounded by forests and greenery. It is ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kfarhbab
- Kfarsghab is a village located in the northern part of Lebanon, specifically in the Batroun district in North Governorate. It is situated on a mountain overlooking green valleys and has a population o... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kfarsghab
- Kfarzel is a small village located in the Keserwan District in the Mount Lebanon Governorate of Lebanon. It is situated at an elevation of 800 meters above sea level and has a population of around 1,5... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kfarzel
- Ksara is a historic town located in the Beqaa Valley region of Lebanon. It is renowned for its wineries, specifically the Ksara winery, which is one of the oldest and most prestigious wineries in the ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ksara
- Qadisha Valley is a deep gorge located in the north of Lebanon, near the city of Bsharri. It is famous for its stunning natural beauty and historic significance since it has been a place of refuge for... CONTINUE here for a trip to Qadisha Valley
- Rashaya is a small town located in the Bekaa Valley in Lebanon. It is situated at an altitude of 1,120 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest towns in the region. Rashaya is known for it... CONTINUE here for a trip to Rashaya
- Sidon, also known as Saida in Arabic, is a city located in southern Lebanon on the Mediterranean coast. It is the third largest city in Lebanon, with a population of approximately 80,000. Sidon has a ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sidone
- Tripoli is a city located in the northern part of Lebanon. It is the second-largest city in the country after Beirut and has a population of over 500,000 residents. The city is known for its rich hist... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tripoli
- Tyre is a coastal city located in southern Lebanon, about 80 kilometers south of the capital, Beirut. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history dating back ove... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tyre
- Zahle is a city in the Beqaa Valley of Lebanon. It is known as the "City of Wine and Poetry" and is the capital of the Beqaa Governorate. It is located about 55 kilometers east of the capital Beirut, ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Zahle


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