Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to November
Currency
Lebanese Pound (LBP)
Language
Arabic, French, English
Timezone
EET (UTC+2)
Discover Beirut
Beirut is not just a city; it's a living, breathing chronicle of resilience. Walk from the bullet-riddled Holiday Inn to the gleaming Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque in minutes, a testament to its phoenix-like spirit. This is where you can explore millennia-old Phoenician artifacts at the National Museum in the morning, haggle for vintage treasures in the Bourj Hammoud flea market in the afternoon, and sip Arak on a rooftop in Mar Mikhael as the sun sets over the Mediterranean.
Forget generic labels. Beirut's soul is in its contradictions: the scent of jasmine and shisha in the Gemmayzeh stairways, the sound of church bells mingling with the call to prayer, and the taste of fresh kaak from a street vendor after a night of dancing in a hidden speakeasy. It's a city that demands to be felt, not just seen, offering an intensity of experience found nowhere else in the region.
Why Visit Beirut?
A Culinary Epicenter: Experience the legendary Lebanese mezze, from smoky baba ghanoush at traditional spots like Em Sherif to innovative takes on manousheh at Barbar. The food is a social event, a history lesson, and an art form all on one table.
Architectural Time Capsule: Witness 5,000 years of history layered in stone. Explore Roman Baths in the Downtown district, admire Ottoman-era mansions in Zokak el-Blat, stroll past French Mandate-era buildings on Rue Gouraud, and see the stark modernist ruins of the civil war.
Unmatched Nightlife & Culture: From glamorous beach clubs like Orchid in Dbayeh to underground bars playing vinyl in Mar Mikhael's hidden courtyards, Beirut's nightlife is legendary. The city also pulses with art galleries, live Arabic music at Metro Al Madina, and annual festivals like Beirut International Film Festival.
The Resilient Mediterranean Spirit: Engage with the famously welcoming and resilient locals. Discuss politics over coffee, learn about the city's reconstruction, and feel the infectious energy of a place that has repeatedly rebuilt itself from the ashes.
Stunning Natural Beauty: Beirut is a city by the sea. Walk or bike the Corniche at sunset for iconic views of Pigeon Rocks (Raouché), swim at the rocky beaches of Ramlet el-Bayda, or take a short drive to the lush pine forests of the surrounding mountains.
A Gateway to Antiquity: Use Beirut as your base to explore some of the world's most significant ancient sites. Day trips can take you to the Crusader castle and Phoenician ruins in Byblos (Jbeil), the colossal Roman temples of Baalbek, and the stunning sea cliffs of Jeita Grotto.
Beirut is Known For
Ready to explore Beirut?
Beirut Neighborhoods
Gemmayzeh & Mar Mikhael
The epicenter of Beirut's hipster renaissance, these adjacent districts are a maze of narrow streets, Ottoman-era houses, and vibrant street art. By day it's cafes and concept stores; by night, it transforms into the city's most dynamic bar and restaurant scene.
Highlights:
Best for:
Downtown (Solidere)
The meticulously reconstructed city center, a blend of archaeological sites and ultra-modern architecture. It's polished, upscale, and home to high-end shopping, luxury hotels, and restored historical landmarks surrounding Martyrs' Square.
Highlights:
Best for:
Hamra
The intellectual and cultural heart of old Beirut, known for its historic universities, bookshops, and 1960s modernist buildings. It's bustling, less polished than Downtown, and offers a more local, eclectic vibe with affordable eats and a thriving cafe culture.
Highlights:
Best for:
Achrafieh
An upscale, predominantly Christian district on a hill, known for its grand old apartments, upscale restaurants, and chic boutiques. It's more residential and sophisticated, with beautiful views and a calmer pace than the central nightlife districts.
Highlights:
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Top Attractions
Local Tips & Insider Knowledge
- •Carry cash (USD and LBP). Lebanon's economy is heavily cash-based, and while cards are accepted in some places, USD is widely preferred and often gives a better rate.
- •Download the 'Bolt' or 'Careem' app for taxis. Negotiate the fare before getting in a regular taxi, or use these ride-hailing apps for fixed, fair prices.
- •Tipping ('baksheesh') is customary. Round up taxi fares, leave 10% in restaurants if service isn't included, and tip small change to porters and bathroom attendants.
- •Dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Cover shoulders and knees for both men and women when entering mosques like Mohammad Al-Amin and churches.
- •Embrace the late schedule. Dinner often starts after 9 PM, and nightlife doesn't get going until midnight. Adjust your rhythm accordingly.
- •Visit the National Museum early. It's a world-class museum, but it can get crowded. Go when it opens to have the Phoenician sarcophagi and artifacts to yourself.
- •Don't drink the tap water. Always opt for sealed bottled water, even for brushing your teeth in most areas.
- •Learn a few Arabic phrases. A simple 'Marhaba' (hello) and 'Shukran' (thank you) go a very long way and are greatly appreciated.
- •Be prepared for power cuts. Many buildings and hotels have generators, but it's wise to carry a power bank for your phone.
- •Explore on foot. Beirut's most interesting neighborhoods are best discovered by wandering. You'll stumble upon hidden courtyards, street art, and hole-in-the-wall eateries you'd never find otherwise.
Beirut Food Scene
Lebanese cuisine is the soul of Beirut, centered around sharing and freshness. Mezze—a parade of small dishes—is the star, featuring hummus, tabbouleh, and grilled meats. Dining is a leisurely, social affair, with meals stretching for hours over conversation and Arak, the local anise-flavored spirit.
Must-Try Dishes
Traditional Mezze
- • Em Sherif (full experience)
- • Tawlet (farm-to-table collective)
- • Le Chef (iconic, no-frills spot in Gemmayzeh)
Go with a group to sample as many dishes as possible. Don't fill up on bread—pace yourself for the 20+ plates that may arrive.
Street Food & Bakeries
- • Barbar (for manousheh and shawarma)
- • Furn Al Sabaya (for kaak sesame bread rings)
- • Semsom (for fresh falafel sandwiches)
Try 'kaak' from a street vendor for breakfast—it's a sesame bread ring often filled with cheese or za'atar, perfect for eating on the go.
Seafood
- • Abou Naim (fishermen's port classic)
- • Pepe's Fishing Club (legendary Byblos spot, worth the trip)
- • Bay Rock (for views and grilled fish at Raouché)
The fish is typically priced by weight. Ask for the 'catch of the day' and have it simply grilled with lemon and olive oil ('sayadieh' style).
Modern Lebanese & Fine Dining
- • Liza (Achrafieh, set in a stunning old mansion)
- • Baron (sophisticated takes on classics)
- • Mayrig (elevated Armenian-Lebanese cuisine)
Reservations are essential, especially on weekends. These restaurants offer a more refined, plated interpretation of traditional flavors.
Popular With
Best Time to Visit Beirut
Spring
April to June brings perfect weather, with warm, sunny days (20-28°C) and cool evenings. The city is in bloom, and outdoor cafes are buzzing.
Pros:
- + Ideal temperatures for sightseeing
- + Less humidity than summer
- + Vibrant green landscapes
Cons:
- - Can be crowded during Easter holidays
- - Prices may be slightly higher
Summer
Hot (often 30-35°C) and humid, but alive with energy. The focus shifts to beach clubs, rooftop bars, and late-night outings.
Pros:
- + Vibrant nightlife and beach scene
- + Long, sunny days
- + Many outdoor festivals and events
Cons:
- - Intense heat and humidity
- - Higher prices for coastal hotels
- - Traffic can be worse
Autumn
September to November is another prime window, mirroring spring with warm days, pleasant nights, and a relaxed atmosphere after the summer rush.
Pros:
- + Excellent weather for exploring
- + Sea is still warm for swimming
- + Harvest season for fresh produce
Cons:
- - Unpredictable late autumn rain possible
- - Days start getting shorter
Winter
Mild and rainy (averaging 14°C), with occasional cold snaps. It's the low season, offering a more local, intimate experience, and nearby ski resorts in the mountains open.
Pros:
- + Lowest prices and fewest tourists
- + Cosy cafe culture thrives
- + Possibility of skiing in the morning, being by the sea in the afternoon
Cons:
- - Frequent rain and overcast skies
- - Some beach clubs and outdoor attractions are closed
- - Less reliable for sunbathing
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Day Trips from Beirut
Byblos (Jbeil)
40 min by car/taxi north
One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Byblos is a UNESCO site where Phoenician, Roman, Crusader, and Ottoman ruins sit beside a picturesque fishing harbor and souk.
Baalbek
1.5-2 hours by car/taxi east
Home to the most impressive Roman ruins in the Middle East, the colossal temples of Jupiter and Bacchus at Baalbek are a breathtaking testament to imperial Roman engineering and ambition.
Jeita Grotto & Harissa
30 min by car/taxi north
A natural and spiritual wonder in one trip. Explore the stunning underground limestone caves of Jeita Grotto, then take the cable car up to Harissa to see the towering statue of Our Lady of Lebanon.
Beirut Budget Guide
Beirut can be surprisingly expensive, especially for accommodation and dining in upscale areas. However, budget travel is possible with careful planning, using street food and shared taxis. Costs are often quoted in USD, but paid in LBP at the daily market rate.
Budget
$50-70 for hostels, street food, and public transport
per day
Mid-Range
$100-200 for 3-star hotels, restaurant meals, and occasional taxis
per day
Luxury
$300+ for 5-star hotels, fine dining, and private drivers
per day
Money-Saving Tips
- •Always ask for prices in both USD and LBP to compare the real-time rate.
- •Eat like a local: manousheh and falafel sandwiches are delicious and cost under $3.
- •Share service (shared) taxis are much cheaper than private ones.
- •Bargain politely in souks and markets, but not in fixed-price stores or restaurants.
- •Consider guesthouses or Airbnb in neighborhoods like Hamra for better value than Downtown hotels.
Beirut Hidden Gems
AUB Archaeological Museum
A small but exquisite museum on the American University of Beirut campus, housing one of the region's most important collections of Levantine artifacts.
It's free, rarely crowded, and contains stunning pieces like the anthropoid sarcophagi, offering a peaceful, academic deep-dive into ancient history.
Bourj Hammoud Flea Market
A sprawling, chaotic market district across the river from Achrafieh, known as Beirut's 'Little Armenia'.
It's an authentic sensory overload where you can find everything from vintage clothes and Soviet cameras to spices and handmade textiles, far from the tourist trail.
Sanayeh Garden
A historic public park in the heart of the city, dating back to the Ottoman era.
It's a beloved local oasis of calm. Join Beirutis for a picnic, people-watch, or simply escape the traffic and noise under its ancient ficus trees.
The Egg (Al Bourj)
The haunting, unfinished concrete shell of a 1960s cinema and entertainment complex, left ruined since the civil war.
It's a powerful, raw monument to Beirut's past, standing in stark contrast to the glitzy Downtown reconstruction around it. Access is not always guaranteed, but its presence is unforgettable.
Mim Museum (Mineral Museum)
A stunning private museum located beneath the campus of the Saint Joseph University, dedicated to minerals and fossils.
It's a dazzling, climate-controlled world of natural beauty, with over 1,800 specimens displayed like jewelry. It's a unique and unexpectedly beautiful attraction.
Beirut Culture & Customs
Beirut's culture is a complex, proud tapestry woven from Phoenician, Arab, Ottoman, French, and modern influences. Family and hospitality are paramount, and social life revolves around food, debate, and a profound love for life ('joie de vivre') despite historical hardships. The city is religiously diverse, with significant Muslim and Christian communities living side-by-side.
Cultural Etiquette
- •Greet people warmly with a handshake and direct eye contact.
- •Always accept an offer of coffee or tea—it's a sign of hospitality.
- •Use your right hand for eating and greeting.
- •Dress stylishly but modestly in general public areas.
- •Avoid discussing sensitive political or sectarian topics unless your local companion brings it up.
Useful Phrases
Frequently Asked Questions about Beirut
Is Beirut safe for tourists?
Beirut is generally safe for tourists, with a visible security presence in central areas. Petty crime is low, but standard precautions apply. Stay informed about the current political situation through your embassy, avoid protests, and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
Do I need a visa to visit Lebanon?
Visa policies vary. Many nationalities (including US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia) can get a free visa on arrival at the airport, valid for one month. Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months and have no Israeli stamps or visas. Always check with the Lebanese embassy before travel.
What is the situation with money and ATMs?
Lebanon has a severe financial crisis. Bring enough USD cash (clean, unmarked bills) for your entire trip, as ATM withdrawals in LBP are limited and subject to unfavorable official rates. Exchange money at licensed exchange shops ('sarraf') for the much better market rate. Many places accept USD directly.
Can I visit other Middle Eastern countries after Lebanon?
Having a Lebanese visa or stamp in your passport will not prevent entry to most countries. However, if you have an Israeli stamp or visa in your passport, you will be denied entry to Lebanon. Plan your regional itinerary carefully.
What's the best way to get around the city?
Walking is best in central districts. For longer trips, use ride-hailing apps like Bolt or Careem for fixed fares. Avoid un-metered taxis without agreeing on a price first. The public bus system is informal and challenging for first-time visitors.
Is English widely spoken?
Yes, English is very widely spoken in Beirut, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. French is also common. Learning a few basic Arabic phrases is appreciated but not necessary for getting by.
What should I pack for Beirut?
Pack stylish, smart-casual clothing. Include modest outfits for religious sites (covering shoulders/knees), a swimsuit for beach clubs, comfortable walking shoes, a power bank for potential power cuts, and a jacket for cooler evenings, even in summer.
Can I drink the tap water?
No, it is not safe to drink tap water in Beirut. Always drink sealed bottled water, which is inexpensive and widely available. Use bottled water for brushing your teeth as well to avoid any stomach issues.
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