Lebanon

Things to Do

Beirut, Lebanon

Everything you need to plan your trip

Tips for First-Timers in Lebanon

Coming to Lebanon for the first time? You're in for a treat. Here's everything you need to know before you arrive.

Passport validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date, have at least 2 blank pages, and must not contain any Israeli stamps, visas, or seals.

At the border: You may be asked for a return ticket, proof of accommodation, and a local contact number. Use Nicolas Malha: +961 71 291 561.

Bring cash: Cards are accepted at most restaurants and shops, but carry some USD or LBP for smaller vendors. ATMs dispense both currencies.

Getting around: Uber operates in Lebanon, but most drivers require cash payment. For card payments, we recommend AlloTaxi.

Car rental: Available at the airport and in the city. But buckle up, driving in Lebanon is not for the faint-hearted!

Don't drink tap water: Tap water in Lebanon is not drinkable. Bottled water is widely available everywhere.

Expect traffic: Beirut traffic can be intense, especially during rush hours. Budgeting 15–20 minutes extra time into your plans is usually a good idea.

Toters app: Lebanon's go-to delivery platform. Food, groceries, pharmacy — it delivers everything.

Don't panic: Power cuts are a constant in Lebanon. Hotels and most public places have backup generators.

Emergency numbers: Red Cross: 140  ·  Police: 112

Things to Do in Lebanon

Lebanon is a country like no other — ancient history, stunning nature, and a vibrant food and nightlife scene all in one place. Here are our top picks to make the most of your stay:

Pigeon Rocks (Raouché)

Beirut's most iconic landmark — two towering natural rock arches rising dramatically from the Mediterranean. Head to the Raouché promenade at golden hour for an unforgettable view.

Beirut Corniche & Zaytouna Bay

Stroll Beirut's beloved 4.8km seafront promenade and continue to Zaytouna Bay — a chic waterfront marina lined with restaurants, cafés, and views of the city skyline. Perfect morning or evening outing.

Byblos (Jbeil)

One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, just 40km from Beirut. Wander the ancient port, explore the Crusader castle, and lose yourself in the old souk — a maze of artisan shops and open-air cafés.

Roman Ruins in Baalbek

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved Roman complexes in the world. The Temple of Jupiter and Temple of Bacchus are staggering in scale — a must-see for any history lover.

Batroun

A charming coastal town 55km north of Beirut with a 2,000-year-old Phoenician sea wall, a pretty souk of artisan boutiques and restaurants, and lively beach clubs and bars that come alive after dark.

Jeita Grotto

An extraordinary system of two interconnected limestone caves 18km north of Beirut. Glide by boat through the lower cave's underground lake and walk among glittering stalactite formations above — a true natural wonder.

Cedars of God (Bsharri)

A UNESCO World Heritage Site deep in the mountains of northern Lebanon — a sacred grove of ancient cedar trees, some over 1,000 years old. The surrounding Bsharri village and Qadisha Valley make it a full day of breathtaking scenery.

Chouf & Beiteddine Palace

A magnificent 19th-century palace nestled in the Chouf mountains, surrounded by forests of cedar and oak. The palace's intricate Arabic architecture and mosaic courtyards are among the finest examples of Lebanese heritage.

Al-Shouf Cedar Nature Reserve

Lebanon's largest nature reserve, covering nearly 5% of the country. Home to wolves, gazelles, and spectacular cedar forests — perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and escaping the city for a day of mountain air and wilderness.

Where to Eat & Drink

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LEBANESE

  • Em Sherif
  • Liza
  • Beit Kanz
  • Abd El Wahab
  • Sporting
  • Kahwet Al Mandaloun

INTERNATIONAL

  • Albergo
  • Arthaus Beirut
  • Mayrig
  • Le Sushi Bar
  • Meat the Fish
  • Villa Clara
  • Buco Burger Bar
  • Beihouse
  • Terrible Prince

OUTSIDE BEIRUT

  • Pierre & Friends
  • Mounir
  • L'Os
  • Colonel Brewery
  • Grecco
  • Margherita Mare
  • Babel Bahr

BREAKFAST

  • Nayla Beirut
  • The Lebanese Bakery
  • Paul
  • The Glow Paradise
  • Ginette