Lebanon

Lebanon, though compact in size, offers an astonishing variety of attractions that cater to lovers of history, culture, nature, and culinary discovery. Beirut, the capital city, is often the first stop for travelers and represents a blend of Mediterranean flair, Levantine charm, and cosmopolitan energy. The Corniche, a seaside promenade lined with palm trees and cafés, provides sweeping views of the Mediterranean and the iconic Pigeon Rocks in Raouche. Downtown Beirut is home to archaeological remains from Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman eras juxtaposed with modern skyscrapers and luxury boutiques. The ancient city of Byblos, recognized as one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, invites exploration with its Phoenician ruins, Crusader Castle, medieval port, and lively souks. To the south, the coastal city of Tyre offers preserved Roman hippodromes and sea-side archaeological sites. In Baalbek, located in the Beqaa Valley, stand some of the most magnificent Roman temple ruins in the world, including the Temples of Bacchus and Jupiter, rivaling those found in Rome itself. Nature lovers are drawn to the lush Chouf Mountains, where cedar forests and traditional stone villages like Deir el Qamar offer a peaceful escape. The Qadisha Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an enchanting gorge filled with monasteries, hiking trails, and waterfalls, while the Baatara Gorge Waterfall near Tannourine is a surreal natural wonder where water plunges through a limestone cave opening.

Lebanese cuisine is widely celebrated around the world for its vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and intricate mezze culture. A traditional Lebanese meal begins with a table full of small dishes such as hummus (a creamy blend of chickpeas and tahini), baba ghanoush (smoked eggplant dip), tabbouleh (parsley and bulgur salad), and labneh (strained yogurt). Warm, fluffy pita bread accompanies almost every dish, used to scoop up dips and sauces. Main courses often include grilled meats like shish taouk (marinated chicken skewers), kafta (spiced ground meat), and lamb chops, usually served with rice or bulgur. Kibbeh, a national dish, is a savory mixture of minced meat, cracked wheat, and spices shaped into balls or layered in trays. For seafood lovers, coastal cities like Batroun and Tripoli serve the freshest catches, often grilled whole or in stews like siyadiyeh. Desserts such as knefeh (a sweet cheese pastry soaked in orange blossom syrup) and maamoul (date or nut-filled cookies) satisfy any sweet tooth. Lebanese coffee, served strong and often flavored with cardamom, is a ritual at the end of every meal, and arak, an anise-flavored spirit, is a common drink during celebrations and long meals.

Lebanon does not have a centralized public transportation system like subways or trains, so travelers will primarily rely on a combination of shared taxis (known as “service”), private taxis, ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt, or intercity minivans. In Beirut, shared service taxis operate along fixed routes but will pick up multiple passengers en route. It's an affordable option, but may be confusing for first-time visitors unfamiliar with the routes. For travel between cities, minibuses are inexpensive and depart from designated terminals such as Cola or Dora in Beirut. Renting a car is a great way to explore regions like the Chouf, Beqaa Valley, or northern Lebanon at your own pace, but be prepared for aggressive driving, minimal signage, and frequent traffic jams in cities. Hiring a driver or joining a local tour can be more comfortable for those wanting to avoid the stress of navigation. Walking is practical in smaller cities and towns, but in Beirut, pedestrians must stay alert due to erratic traffic. While public transport is improving slowly, intercity connectivity remains most convenient by car or private van.

Lebanon can be traveled on a budget with some strategic planning. Street food such as manakish (a type of Levantine flatbread topped with za’atar or cheese), shawarma, or falafel sandwiches is both cheap and delicious, often costing under $2–3. Local cafés and casual restaurants offer daily specials, and portions are usually generous enough to share. For accommodations, look for family-run guesthouses or hostels in Beirut like The Grand Meshmosh Hotel, which offer affordable stays with character and communal experiences. Outside Beirut, towns like Byblos, Batroun, and Ehden feature low-cost guesthouses and Airbnb options, especially in off-season months. Transport costs can be kept low by using service taxis or minibuses. Entry fees to historic sites like Baalbek or Jeita Grotto are modest. Many museums and attractions offer student discounts. Hiking and nature exploration are generally free, and rural homestays can offer affordable packages that include meals and lodging.

Lebanon is generally safe for tourists, especially in popular areas like Beirut, Byblos, and the Chouf Mountains. However, it’s important to stay updated on political developments and local advisories, as the region can experience sudden unrest or protests. Demonstrations are common in urban centers and should be avoided. Certain areas near the borders, especially near Syria or in parts of the Beqaa Valley, are best visited with local guidance or avoided depending on current conditions. Petty crime such as pickpocketing exists but is not widespread. Keep your belongings secure in crowded areas and avoid isolated zones after dark. Always carry identification, and follow advice from your accommodation staff about safe areas and transport. Lebanon’s emergency number is 112, and major hospitals in Beirut provide good quality care.

Lebanese people are famously hospitable and proud of their cultural heritage. Greetings are warm, and it’s customary to shake hands or exchange cheek kisses among close acquaintances. Dress is generally modern and relaxed in Beirut and coastal towns, but more conservative attire is appropriate when visiting religious sites or rural villages. Hospitality is deeply rooted in Lebanese culture—guests are often offered food, drink, or coffee. Refusing may be seen as impolite, so accept with gratitude, even if only a small portion. Tipping is customary; 10% is standard in restaurants if service is not included. Avoid discussing sensitive political or sectarian topics, as Lebanon has a complex and often polarizing political landscape.

Lebanon is a treasure trove for travelers of all styles. History enthusiasts will be in awe of the Roman ruins of Baalbek, the Crusader castles of Byblos, and the ancient monasteries of the Qadisha Valley. Adventure travelers can ski, hike, and scuba dive—all within the same week. Foodies will revel in the country's legendary cuisine and wine culture, while spiritual travelers will appreciate the deep religious heritage found in mosques, churches, and sacred grottos. Couples will find romantic escapes in the mountains and along the Mediterranean coast, while solo travelers can enjoy the vibrant café culture and friendly locals. Luxury seekers can indulge in world-class dining, beach clubs, and boutique hotels, while budget travelers can easily navigate the country with shared transport, street food, and homestays.

For budget travelers, hostels and guesthouses in Beirut such as The Colony Beirut or Saifi Urban Gardens offer affordable lodging with social vibes and artistic ambiance. In mountain villages like Ehden or Barouk, local families open their homes to guests through informal homestays or Airbnb listings, providing warm hospitality and home-cooked meals for budget-conscious adventurers. Mid-range travelers will find comfortable boutique hotels such as the charming Byblos Sur Mer Hotel or Beit al Batroun. These accommodations provide authentic architecture, local touches, and often panoramic views of the sea or mountains. Guesthouses like Beit Douma or Al Haush Eco Guesthouse in the Beqaa region are popular for those seeking peace and immersion in Lebanese culture. Luxury seekers have no shortage of options: The Four Seasons Hotel Beirut and Le Gray (pending renovation) offer five-star services in the capital, while mountain resorts like InterContinental Mzaar in Faraya cater to winter sports and wellness retreats. Boutique options like Albergo Hotel in Beirut offer exquisite design, rooftop dining, and personalized service.

One of the most common traveler mistakes is assuming Lebanon is solely an urban or nightlife destination. While Beirut has a vibrant scene, many visitors miss the stunning countryside, monasteries, and ancient ruins spread across the nation. Failing to explore beyond the capital is a missed opportunity to experience the diversity of Lebanon. Currency confusion is another common issue—travelers often get caught unaware by exchange rate fluctuations or assume they can use cards everywhere. Cash remains essential in many places. Not preparing for erratic traffic or relying too heavily on public transportation can also create logistical headaches. Lastly, underestimating the importance of local customs, such as conservative dress in rural areas or refusing hospitality, may unintentionally offend.

For transportation, Uber and Bolt are essential in Beirut and can help avoid fare negotiations. Zawarib Beirut is a useful local map app, and Maps.me is excellent for offline use in mountainous or rural areas. Moovit offers some transit guidance, though services are limited. Booking.com and Airbnb are widely used for accommodations, and food delivery apps like Toters or Zomato are helpful in urban areas. Currency conversion apps are also useful due to fluctuations in the exchange rate.

A one-week itinerary might begin with three days in Beirut, exploring its museums, neighborhoods like Gemmayzeh and Hamra, and dining along the Corniche. Day trips to Jeita Grotto and Harissa offer dramatic views and natural wonders. The next two days can be spent in Byblos and Batroun, with a focus on ancient ruins, seaside restaurants, and relaxation. The final part of the itinerary could include a visit to the Chouf Mountains or the Qadisha Valley for hiking and monastery visits. For a longer trip, consider extending your stay to the Beqaa Valley to explore Baalbek and the region’s wineries. The Cedars of God and northern towns like Bcharre offer opportunities for mountain adventures and cultural immersion. Add a beach day in Tyre for a complete mix of city life, nature, and coastal leisure.

Lebanon is one of the oldest wine-producing countries in the world, with a viticulture history dating back over 5,000 years. The town of Zahle in the Beqaa Valley is known as the “City of Wine and Poetry,” and its vineyards produce internationally acclaimed wines. The Lebanese diaspora is also significant—there are more Lebanese people living abroad than in the country itself, with large communities in Brazil, Canada, and Australia. Beirut was once dubbed the “Paris of the Middle East” for its fashion, arts, and café culture. Lebanon is also home to the famous Cedars of God, ancient trees that were mentioned in the Epic of Gilgamesh and used in the construction of Solomon’s Temple. Despite its size, Lebanon has a remarkable diversity of geography, allowing you to ski in the morning and swim in the Mediterranean by afternoon.