Beirut Lebanon 7 Day Itinerary

Beirut, Lebanon 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Downtown Beirut

  • Morning: Arrive at Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY) and take a taxi or Uber to your hotel in downtown Beirut.
  • Afternoon: Visit the National Museum of Beirut to learn about Lebanon’s history and culture. Walk around the nearby Nejmeh Square and explore the surrounding streets, taking in the lively atmosphere.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Al-Khal, a traditional Lebanese restaurant serving delicious mezze and grills. Stay overnight at Hotel Le Gray or similar.

Day 2: Beirut’s Waterfront and Nightlife

Day 3: Byblos and Jounieh

  • Morning: Take a day trip to the ancient city of Byblos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (approximately 30 minutes north of Beirut). Explore the old town, harbor, and Crusader Castle.
  • Afternoon: Head to Jounieh, a coastal town with stunning views. Take a cable car ride up to the Harissa Hill for panoramic views of the bay.
  • Evening: Return to Beirut and enjoy dinner at Liza, serving modern Lebanese cuisine.

Day 4: Jeita Grotto and Baalbek

  • Morning: Visit the stunning Jeita Grotto, a natural limestone cave system (approximately 20 minutes north of Beirut).
  • Afternoon: Drive to Baalbek (approximately 2 hours east of Beirut), home to ancient Roman ruins, including the Temple of Bacchus and the Temple of Jupiter.
  • Evening: Return to Beirut and enjoy dinner at Mayrig, serving Armenian-Lebanese cuisine.

Day 5: Beach Day and Southern Lebanon

  • Morning: Spend a relaxing day at one of Beirut’s popular beaches, such as Ramlet el-Baida or Ain el-Mreisseh.
  • Afternoon: Take a drive south to Sidon (approximately 45 minutes), exploring the old town and castle. Continue to Tyre (approximately 1 hour), with its stunning beaches and ancient ruins.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local seafood restaurant, such as Al-Fakht.

Day 6: Wine Tasting and Ksara

  • Morning: Visit the Ksara Winery (approximately 45 minutes southeast of Beirut), one of Lebanon’s oldest and most renowned wineries. Take a wine tasting tour and enjoy lunch at their restaurant.
  • Afternoon: Explore the nearby Dahr el-Baydar area, known for its scenic views and hiking trails.
  • Evening: Return to Beirut and enjoy a farewell dinner at Bistro Bar, serving international cuisine.

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring any last-minute sights.
  • Afternoon: Depart for the airport and your return journey home.

Things to Know

  • Lebanon is a cash-based economy, so have some local currency (LBP) with you at all times.
  • Arabic and French are widely spoken, but many Lebanese also speak English.
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or rural areas.
  • Be prepared for crowds and chaos in Beirut’s streets.

Transportation

  • Taxis: Yellow taxis are abundant, but be sure to agree on the fare before departing.
  • Uber: Available in Beirut, but not always reliable outside of the city.
  • Car Rental: A good option if you plan to explore the countryside extensively.
  • Public Transportation: Minivans (service) and buses connect major towns, but can be crowded.

Tips

  • Be prepared for variable weather conditions, especially during winter months.
  • Haggle when shopping at markets or from street vendors.
  • Try local specialties like shawarma, falafel, and Lebanese coffee.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites.

Accommodation

  • Hotel Le Gray: A 5-star hotel in downtown Beirut with comfortable rooms and a rooftop pool.
  • Alternative options:

Restaurants

  • Al-Khal: Traditional Lebanese cuisine in the heart of downtown Beirut.
  • Liza: Modern Lebanese cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
  • Mayrig: Armenian-Lebanese cuisine with a cozy atmosphere.

Additional Resources

Remember to stay safe, respect local customs, and enjoy your time in Beirut!