Beirut
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Beirut
Beirut is the perfect destination for seasoned travellers: here, East and West intertwine in intricate ways, creating a city so magnetic that few are able to resist its powerful draw. Much has changed over the latter half of the twentieth century, with Beirut rising to become glitterati central in the 60s, but falling from grace during the bloody Civil War. However, the city is alive and kicking, enticing travellers with superb gastronomy, the Middle East's most vibrant nightlife and close proximity to the ancient towns of Byblos and Baalbek.Hitta resa
Walk or bike along the Corniche to witness the leisurely flow of life by the Mediterranean; if you head south towards the Raouche neighbourhood, you will eventually come to one of Beirut's most iconic natural sites: the Pigeon Rocks, limestone formations jutting out of the sea. Come at sundown for shisha with a view.
Raouché Rocks, also known as the Pigeon Rocks, is one of Beirut’s most iconic landmarks. Rising from the Mediterranean, these natural rock formations are best admired from the Corniche, where people gather to take in the view. For a closer look, you can take a boat ride around the rocks and through their sea caves. The trip offers stunning views, sea breezes, and a glimpse of Beirut’s coastal charm. Visiting Sakhrat al-Rawsheh is an experience not to be missed.
This site is an opportunity that Beirut offers to admire its Roman heritage. Located right in the heart of downtown, between Banks Street and Capuchin Street, these archaeological ruins showcase a glimpse into the city’s ancient past. You can still see the four halls, a marble pool, stone basins, and even a medicinal garden that reflects Roman traditions. Just a short walk away, you’ll also find the Roman Forum of Beirut. Best of all, entry is free of charge.
Mohammad Al Amin Mosque is Beirut’s most important and largest mosque, instantly recognisable by its blue dome and four minarets. Built in the Ottoman-Turkish architectural style, it dominates the skyline around Martyrs’ Square and is regarded by locals as a symbol of Lebanese unity. Inside, the mosque is just as impressive. You will be captivated by its chandeliers, intricate Islamic calligraphy, and warm lighting. Tourists are welcome, but it’s essential to respect the dress code and worshippers. Keep in mind that entry is limited to the five daily prayer times.
Downtown Beirut is best explored on a cycling tour during the day. The city centre showcases sleek glass towers, while just a block away, abandoned high-rises with bullet holes stand as urban fossils from a not-so-distant war. The area is a blend of modern and traditional architecture, complemented by dining options and important historical landmarks. Make sure you stop to take a photo at the popular 'I Love Beirut' sign, visit Martyrs’ Square, a moving memorial to the nationalists executed here in 1916 under Ottoman rule, and admire the impressive Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque.
Hamra Street is one of Beirut’s most vibrant hubs, located in the Hamra neighbourhood. It’s a commercial and entertainment street lined with cafés, restaurants, shops, and bookshops. Long regarded as the intellectual and cultural heart of the city, Hamra also boasts theatres and art spaces, attracting students, writers, and artists. Its cosmopolitan energy and diplomatic presence give the area a distinctly international flair.
To discover an edgier, hip side to the city, walk down the thoroughfares of Armenia Street, Mar Mikhael, and Gouraud Street, Gemmayzeh, and soak in Beirut's undeniable cool. There are plenty of attractive brunch spots and swank art galleries around. Check out the St Nicholas Stairs in the summer for some al fresco art.
The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Byblos is a treasured city, reportedly the first to be inhabited by Phoenicians, hosting a sequence of mighty civilisations; from Egyptians to Ottomans, over the following millennia. It's an easy day trip from Beirut to see early settlements dating back to the B.C., the 12th century Crusader Castle, and the ancient Phoenician port.
Walk or bike along the Corniche to witness the leisurely flow of life by the Mediterranean; if you head south towards the Raouche neighbourhood, you will eventually come to one of Beirut's most iconic natural sites: the Pigeon Rocks, limestone formations jutting out of the sea. Come at sundown for shisha with a view.
Raouché Rocks, also known as the Pigeon Rocks, is one of Beirut’s most iconic landmarks. Rising from the Mediterranean, these natural rock formations are best admired from the Corniche, where people gather to take in the view. For a closer look, you can take a boat ride around the rocks and through their sea caves. The trip offers stunning views, sea breezes, and a glimpse of Beirut’s coastal charm. Visiting Sakhrat al-Rawsheh is an experience not to be missed.
The polished Beirut Souks are far from an Oriental understanding of a boisterous marketplace. Stores that line these tranquil streets include upscale international names like Louis Vuitton, D&G, Armani, and more, along with more affordable high-end brands. The Souks are more than just a shopping complex, with entertainment options, street markets and attractive public spaces.
Started by a non-profit aiming to support local artists nearly four decades ago, L'Artisan du Liban now boasts two locations; a further one on Clemenceau Street. You will find artwork, woven rugs, embroidery, home decor items, and jewellery all made exclusively by Lebanese craftsmen and women.
Weekends see the Souq al Ahad fill up with vendors selling all kinds of goods, from books to knick-knacks and original antiques, most sold at prices that are simply unbeatable.
City Centre Beirut is more than just a shopping stop. Inside, you’ll find a mix of international and Lebanese brands alongside plenty of dining options, from quick bites in the food court to sit-down restaurants serving every type of cuisine. If you have kids, you will appreciate the children’s playroom, as well as the mall’s bright, spacious design and easy parking.
If one-stop shopping is more your thing, head to the capital's most popular shopping centre, ABC Mall, and browse through local and international brand-name stores with dining and entertainment conveniently at hand. There's another location in the city called ABC Verdun.
Skip the magnets: a nicely packaged jar of Lebanon's very own natural honey makes for a souvenir miles ahead of any trinket. There are many kinds of honey to choose from, along with other honey-based treats. The Mar Mikhayel location also has a trendy cafe.
Sophisticated jewellery, interior decor items, cosmetics, pieces of clothing and more are all carefully selected from across the region, nationally and internationally. The brand prides itself on supporting 'sustainable luxury', so do expect prices slightly above average.
The polished Beirut Souks are far from an Oriental understanding of a boisterous marketplace. Stores that line these tranquil streets include upscale international names like Louis Vuitton, D&G, Armani, and more, along with more affordable high-end brands. The Souks are more than just a shopping complex, with entertainment options, street markets and attractive public spaces.
Started by a non-profit aiming to support local artists nearly four decades ago, L'Artisan du Liban now boasts two locations; a further one on Clemenceau Street. You will find artwork, woven rugs, embroidery, home decor items, and jewellery all made exclusively by Lebanese craftsmen and women.
Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport is located just 9 kilometres south of Beirut’s bustling city centre. This proximity allows travellers to reach the heart of Beirut in just 15 to 20 minutes by car. While taxis or ride-sharing apps are the primary mode of transport from the airport, adventurous travellers can also opt for shared minibuses that run sporadically to various city destinations.
June through August are some of the hottest months, but these are also the months when Beirut's celebrated party scene is at its most active, with revellers gathering by the poolside, on rooftops and by the Mediterranean. Spring and autumn have milder temperatures and are better fit for slow-paced city exploration and hikes. December through March are the height of ski season when winter sports enthusiasts flock to the surrounding slopes.
Keep up-to-date with travel safety advice when planning a trip to Beirut and all through your stay. While most visits are trouble-free, there is a risk of terrorism present at all times, especially so in crowded areas and around dates of political significance, such as elections. Governments of many countries advise against travel to some parts of Lebanon, particularly around the borders with Syria and Israel, around refugee camps and the southern suburbs of Beirut, where the threat of terrorism is especially high.
Citizens of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates do not require a visa to enter Lebanon and stay for up to 6 months in a year for the purpose of tourism, provided they have no Israeli marks or stamps in their passports and a nonrefundable onward ticket; same applies to citizens of Jordan for stays of up to 3 months a year. Visa on arrival is granted under the above conditions to nationals of the European Union, much of Europe, the USA, Mexico, Canada, China, Australia, and many other countries across Asia and South America. If you do require a visa, an application must be made in advance via a Lebanese embassy or consulate closest to you. Please visit the General Security web page for up-to-date information.
Public transport in Beirut is undergoing significant improvements but still faces challenges. One of the best ways to get around Beirut is by taxi or ride-sharing apps like Uber.
Traditional taxis are widely available throughout Beirut and are usually metered, but it's recommended to confirm this before starting your journey to avoid any misunderstandings regarding fares. In addition to traditional taxis, ride-sharing apps like Uber and Careem are popular and offer a reliable and convenient way to get around the city.
Some of the most prominent pharmacies you'll find in Beirut include Karout Pharmacy, Machmouchi, and Al Madina.
Post offices in Beirut generally operate from 8am to 3pm, Monday to Friday. They provide a wide range of services, including mail and parcel delivery, financial transactions, and various formalities related to government and non-governmental services. Having said that, don't count on Liban Post for speedy delivery. For more time-sensitive parcels or letters, try a private providers like DHL.
Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport is located just 9 kilometres south of Beirut’s bustling city centre. This proximity allows travellers to reach the heart of Beirut in just 15 to 20 minutes by car. While taxis or ride-sharing apps are the primary mode of transport from the airport, adventurous travellers can also opt for shared minibuses that run sporadically to various city destinations.
June through August are some of the hottest months, but these are also the months when Beirut's celebrated party scene is at its most active, with revellers gathering by the poolside, on rooftops and by the Mediterranean. Spring and autumn have milder temperatures and are better fit for slow-paced city exploration and hikes. December through March are the height of ski season when winter sports enthusiasts flock to the surrounding slopes.
