Lebanon travel guide
Lebanon Tourism | Lebanon Guide
You're Going to Love Lebanon
Bathed by the Mediterranean, Lebanon is a country of contrasts where the West meets the Middle East and tradition and modernity coexist.
Home to warm and welcoming people, Lebanon boasts mouthwatering cuisine, gorgeous views, and remarkable ancient ruins.
What to do in Lebanon
1. Visit the National Museum of Beirut
A trip to the National Museum of Beirut provides a ticket into the country's rich history if there isn't time to visit all the archaeological traces scattered around Lebanon.
2. Experience the Outdoors at the Lebanon Mountain Trail
For experienced hikers or those just getting started, go on a guided tour of the Lebanon Mountain Trail. Amazing views are guaranteed.
3. Walk Beirut's Most Famous Promenade
Walking on the Corniche by the sea in Beirut is one of the most charming things to do in the Lebanese capital city. Mix with locals going on their daily stroll or spend time at one of the cafes.
4. Discover the Old City in Tripoli
Wander the streets of the Old City in Tripoli and browse the local souks (traditional markets) for gold, perfumes, spices, and brass. Women should dress according to the local dress code in this area.
5. Marvel at Beiteddine Palace
A renovated 19th-century palace, Beiteddine is one of the top attractions in the Chouf Mountains in Lebanon, near Beirut.
When to visit Lebanon
Skiers should travel to Lebanon between December and April. For travelers looking for warmer days, head to this country from June to August to enjoy the popular beaches and nightclubs of Beirut.
How to Get to Lebanon
Entry requirements
Citizens from most countries can enter Lebanon with a free visa on arrival issued at the airport. This type of visa allows travelers to stay for up to one month.
Plane
Lebanon is served by only one airport where all international flights arrive: the Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport.
Local airline Middle East Airlines has several regular flights to and from Europe. Travelers going to Lebanon from elsewhere must account for at least one layover.
Popular airports in Lebanon
Popular airlines serving Lebanon
Where to stay in Lebanon
Most hotels and hostels will be located in Beirut. It is possible to find all-inclusive resorts in the coastal cities of Byblos and Jounieh.
Where to stay in popular areas of Lebanon
Most booked hotels in Lebanon
How to Get Around Lebanon
Public Transportation
Some cities are served by a local network of privately run buses. A one-way ticket within the same city costs approximately 1,959 LBP (1.30 USD).
Alternatively, in Beirut, taxis are a popular mode of transportation. Taxis are usually operated by White Taxi and Lebanon Taxi. Ask or negotiate the flat fee with the driver.
Bus
There are regular long-distance minibuses departing from Beirut to other towns in Lebanon. The route between Beirut and Tripoli is the only one served by larger buses.
Look for the government-run buses with red license plates. The ticket is paid to the driver on board, at the beginning or the end of the ride. Usually, the driver will drop passengers where requested, even if it's not an official bus stop.
Car
In such a small country as Lebanon, renting a car is the most practical option to get around. Cars can be rented with a driver, but it's usually cheaper to opt for a driverless car.
Basic traffic rules aren't always strictly followed by local drivers, so be alert when driving in compact traffic.
The Cost of Living in Lebanon
The local currency is the Lebanese Pound, but travelers can pay in US Dollars practically anywhere in the country. ATMs are frequent to find and cash can be withdrawn in both currencies. Credit card payments are accepted in large chain hotels and restaurants. Most businesses display prices in US Dollars. Groceries for a few days can cost approximately 67,837 LBP (45 USD).