Tripoli, Lebanon-5-day-itinerary
Tripoli, Lebanon 5-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Exploring the Old City
Morning
- Start at the Citadel of Raymond de Saint-Gilles, a medieval fortress with stunning views of the city.
- Visit the nearby Grand Mosque of Tripoli, one of the oldest and most beautiful mosques in Lebanon.
Afternoon
- Wander through the Old Souks (markets), where you can find everything from souvenirs to traditional Lebanese clothing.
- Stop by the Khan el-Khalili, a historic caravanserai that now hosts cafes, shops, and cultural events.
Evening
- Enjoy dinner at Al-Khawli Restaurant, serving traditional Lebanese cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
- Stay overnight at Hotel Palmyra, a comfortable option in the heart of the city.
Day 2: History and Culture
Morning
- Visit the Tripoli Museum, which showcases the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.
- Stop by the Saint Gilles Cathedral, a beautiful Catholic church with stunning architecture.
Afternoon
- Explore the Taynal Mosque, a historic mosque with a unique blend of Ottoman and Arab architectural styles.
- Attend a traditional Lebanese coffee ceremony at Café Younes.
Evening
- Enjoy dinner at Al-Mustaqim Restaurant, serving a range of international and local dishes.
- Take a stroll along the Tripoli Corniche, a scenic waterfront promenade with great views of the city.
Day 3: Nature Escapes
Morning
- Visit the Palm Islands Nature Reserve, a protected area featuring beautiful beaches, forests, and wildlife. (Take a boat from the Tripoli port)
- Go hiking or birdwatching at Rashid Karami Forest, a scenic nature reserve just outside the city.
Afternoon
- Relax on the beach at Ramkin Island, a tranquil getaway with clear waters and soft sand.
- Enjoy a seafood lunch at Al-Bahar Restaurant, located near the port.
Evening
- Return to Tripoli and enjoy dinner at Abou Elie Restaurant, serving fresh seafood and Lebanese specialties.
- Stay overnight at Hotel Azihara, offering comfortable rooms and a relaxing atmosphere.
Day 4: Food and Drink
Morning
- Take a cooking class at Tawaheen Al-Mahaba, learning how to prepare traditional Lebanese dishes like kibbeh and tabbouleh.
- Visit the Tripoli Soap Factory, where you can see artisans creating handmade soap using ancient techniques.
Afternoon
- Explore the Local Wineries, sampling some of Lebanon’s renowned wines.
- Indulge in a traditional Lebanese coffee and pastry at Café Al-Rifai.
Evening
- Enjoy dinner at Al-Fakredeen Restaurant, serving modern twists on classic Lebanese dishes.
- Take a leisurely walk through the Old City, enjoying the evening atmosphere.
Day 5: Departure
Morning
- Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring any last-minute sights.
- Depart from Tripoli, bringing back memories of this beautiful city.
Things to Know
- Arabic and French are widely spoken in Tripoli, but many locals also speak English.
- The Lebanese pound (LBP) is the local currency, although US dollars are widely accepted.
- Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting mosques or attending cultural events.
- Haggling is a normal part of shopping in souks, so be prepared to negotiate prices.
Transportation
- Tripoli is easily accessible by car or taxi from Beirut (approximately 1 hour).
- Local transportation options include taxis, buses, and service cars (shared taxis).
Tips
- Try to avoid traveling during peak summer months (June to August) when temperatures are high.
- Be prepared for occasional power outages, and consider packing a portable charger for your devices.
- Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water instead.
I hope you enjoy your trip to Tripoli, Lebanon!