Lebanon 4 Day Itinerary

Lebanon Itinerary: 4 Days of Exploration

Day 1: Beirut and its Surroundings

  • Morning: Start your day with a delicious Lebanese breakfast at a local café in Hamra, one of Beirut’s trendiest neighborhoods.
  • 9:00 AM: Visit the National Museum of Beirut to learn about Lebanon’s rich history and culture.
  • 11:00 AM: Explore the Pigeon Rocks, a stunning natural wonder located on Beirut’s coastline. Take a leisurely walk along the Corniche, the city’s scenic waterfront promenade.
  • Lunch: Savor Lebanese cuisine at Al-Khal, a popular restaurant in the heart of Beirut.
  • Afternoon: Head to Byblos (Jbeil), one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Visit the Byblos Castle, a Crusader fortress that dates back to the 12th century.
  • Evening: Enjoy a sunset dinner at a rooftop restaurant in Beirut, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

Day 2: Jeita Grotto and Harissa

  • 9:00 AM: Depart for Jeita Grotto, a magnificent limestone cave located in the Nahr al-Kalb valley. Take an underground boat ride to explore the grotto’s stunning formations.
  • 12:00 PM: Visit the nearby town of Harissa, famous for its pilgrimage site dedicated to Our Lady of Lebanon. Enjoy breathtaking views of the bay from the top of the hill.
  • Lunch: Try some local specialties at a restaurant in Harissa.
  • Afternoon: Return to Beirut and visit the Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque, one of the city’s most beautiful mosques.
  • Evening: Explore the vibrant nightlife of Beirut, with its many bars, clubs, and lounges.

Day 3: Baalbek and Ksara

  • 8:00 AM: Depart for Baalbek, a historic city located in the Bekaa Valley. Visit the ancient Roman ruins, including the Temple of Jupiter and the Temple of Bacchus.
  • 12:30 PM: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Baalbek.
  • 2:00 PM: Head to Ksara, a picturesque village surrounded by vineyards. Take a wine tasting tour at Château Ksara, one of Lebanon’s premier wineries.
  • Evening: Return to Beirut and enjoy dinner at a traditional Lebanese restaurant.

Day 4: Sidon and Tyre

  • 8:00 AM: Depart for Sidon (Saida), a historic city located on the Mediterranean coast. Visit the Crusader Castle, the Old City, and the Sidon Sea Castle.
  • 12:30 PM: Enjoy lunch at a seafood restaurant in Sidon.
  • 2:00 PM: Head to Tyre (Sour), a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its ancient ruins and stunning beaches. Explore the Hippodrome, the Triumphal Arch, and the Necropolis.
  • Evening: Return to Beirut and enjoy a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant.

Visa Requirements

Citizens of many countries can obtain a visa upon arrival in Lebanon. However, it’s recommended to check with the Lebanese Embassy or Consulate in your home country for specific requirements.

Transportation

  • Airport: Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY) is located 5 km from the city center.
  • Taxis: Available at the airport and throughout the city.
  • Public Transportation: Buses and minivans are available, but not always reliable.
  • Rent a Car: A good option for exploring Lebanon’s countryside.

Things to Know

  • Language: Arabic is the official language, but English and French are widely spoken.
  • Currency: Lebanese Pound (LBP), although US dollars are widely accepted.
  • Dress Code: Modest clothing is recommended when visiting religious sites or rural areas.
  • Safety: Lebanon is generally a safe country, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Other Tips

  • Respect Local Customs: Remove your shoes when entering mosques or homes, and avoid public displays of affection.
  • Haggle: It’s customary to haggle when shopping at markets or from street vendors.
  • Try Local Food: Don’t miss the opportunity to try delicious Lebanese cuisine, including mezze, shawarma, and falafel.

Enjoy your trip to Lebanon!