Lebanon Travel Guide (Middle East/Asia)

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Introduction to Lebanon

Lebanon is a beautiful country that lies on the eastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea. It boasts a rich cultural heritage and an array of natural wonders. The country is a great destination for explorers, hikers, and adventure-seekers. It is also known for its world-class cuisine and nightlife. In this comprehensive guide to Lebanon, we will take you through some of the most popular attractions, things to do, and places to stay in the country.

List of Places to Visit in Lebanon

Lebanon is full of historical and cultural landmarks, natural beauty, and adventure hotspots. Here are some of the must-see places during your visit:

Beirut: The bustling capital city of Lebanon, with a vibrant nightlife and an array of historical sites.
Byblos: One of the oldest cities in the world, with well-preserved ruins, a picturesque old town, and a vibrant arts scene.
Baalbek: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring some of the most impressive Roman ruins in the world.
Jeita Grotto: A natural wonder, a stunning cave system with underground lakes and breathtaking rock formations.
Harissa: A pilgrimage site with a towering statue of the Virgin Mary and panoramic views of the coast.
Cedars of God: A national park with ancient cedar trees and stunning mountain vistas.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Lebanon has a rich history and culture that is visible in its array of museums and historical sites. Some top attractions to consider are:

National Museum of Beirut: Displays Lebanon’s rich archaeological and cultural heritage for over 1,300 years, including the Phoenician era, the Hellenistic-Roman period, and the Islamic medieval era.
Sursock Museum: A beautifully preserved mansion turned art museum, showcasing modern and contemporary art in Lebanon.
Al-Omari Mosque: One of the most significant religious sites in Beirut, it boasts a mesmerizing façade and beautiful interior.
Sidon Sea Castle: an impressive Crusader-era fortress built on the Mediterranean sea.

Natural Attractions of Lebanon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Lebanon is a veritable paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with a wide variety of natural attractions to explore. Some of the best places to visit when looking for natural beauty include:

The Bridge of Faqra: A natural bridge created by a limestone formation that’s stunningly beautiful.
Qadisha Valley: A deep and narrow gorge that offers scenic hiking trails, ancient monasteries, and beautiful vistas.
Beiteddine Palace: Nestled in the stunning Chouf Mountains, this 19th-century palace offers not only gorgeous views but also a great example of Ottoman-era architecture.
Tyre Beach: A pristine beach in the southern part of Lebanon with clear waters and white sands.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lebanon

Lebanon offers unique hiking/biking routes through its lush geography. Some of the most prominent places where you can indulge in these activities are:

Lebanon Mountain Trail: A 470km trail that includes diverse landscapes, cultural sites, and breathtaking views.
Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve: A beautiful nature reserve with hiking trails, crystal-clear creeks, and ancient cedar trees.
Bekaa Valley: A historical area of Lebanon featuring vast vineyards and ancient ruins traced by bikers.

Best Things to Do in Lebanon: Activities and Tours

Besides natural wonders and historical sites, Lebanon has an array of fun activities that can keep you engaged throughout your trip. Here are some of the best things to do:

Take a boat ride along Beirut’s coast: Enjoy the stunning view of the city from the sea.
Visit the Casino du Liban: Test your luck at this stunning casino by the sea.
Tour a winery: Lebanon is famous for its wine, so a tour of its wineries and vineyards is a must.
Take a street art walking tour: Beirut has beautiful street art, and a tour can take you on an exploration of the city’s street art scene.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lebanon

A week in Lebanon should include a tour of its beautiful sites and scenery. Here’s an ideal itinerary:

Day 1: Visit Beirut’s cultural sites, including the National Museum and Al-Omari Mosque.
Day 2: Head north to beautiful Byblos and the Sidon Sea Castle.
Day 3: Visit stunning Cedars of God and stay in Beiteddine.
Day 4: Explore the Qadisha Valley, then finish your day in Tripoli.
Day 5: Tour Tyre Ancient Ruins and Tyre Beach.
Day 6: Take a trip to Baalbek, Lebanon’s most impressive Roman ruins and then try some wine in the Bekaa Valley.
Day 7: Explore the Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve and experience the stunning view from the peak of Bsharri.

Food and Drink Scene of Lebanon

Lebanon is famous for its delicious cuisine, so make sure to come hungry! Here are some dishes and drinks to try:

Must-Try Dishes:

Tabbouleh: A salad made from bulgur, parsley, onions, tomatoes, and mint.
Kibbeh: Meatballs made with bulgur wheat, onions, and minced lamb.
Shawarma: A type of sandwich made of roasted meat, garnished with vegetables.

Local Beverages:

Arak: A traditional spirit made from aniseed and at least 50% alcohol.
Turkish coffee: A thick and lively coffee served in small cups.
St. Peter’s beer: A locally-brewed beer, made in Tripoli.

Where to Stay in Lebanon: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Lebanon offers a wide range of accommodations, from cozy guesthouses to luxury hotels. Here are some of the best places to stay:

Four Seasons Hotel Beirut: A luxurious offering in heart of the city with panoramic views of the Mediterranean sea.
Gems Hotel: A charming, family-run guesthouse in the heart of Jeita.
Beirut Backpackers Hostel: A laid-back hostel with a rooftop terrace and friendly staff.

What to Buy in Lebanon: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Lebanon is known for many unique souvenirs and products for you to buy and bring home. Some of these souvenirs include:

Lebanese sweets and pastries: Try traditional sweets and pastries such as Baklava, Mhalabieh and Knefeh.
Handwoven baskets: Woven by local artisans in rural communities.
Olive oil and soap: Lebanese olive oil is some of the best in the world. Also worth buying is locally crafted olive oil soap made with natural ingredients.

Local Culture and Customs of Lebanon

Lebanon has a diverse cultural heritage that is reflected in its unique customs and traditions. It is a welcoming country with a friendly population that is always willing to help visitors. Understanding the culture and customs of Lebanon can help make your visit easier and more respectful.

Best Time to Visit Lebanon

The best time to visit Lebanon is during the spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) seasons. The temperatures are mild, making it ideal for outdoor activities, and there are fewer tourists than during the summer months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lebanon

Here are some tips on what to do and not to do during your visit:

Do:

Respect religious and cultural traditions.
Try the local cuisine.
Dress conservatively.

Don’t:

Drink alcohol in public places.
Display too much affection in public.
Insult the country’s political or religious figureheads.

Safety and Health

Lebanon is generally a safe country to visit, but it is essential to take caution in some areas. Here’s what you need to know:

Safety in Lebanon:

Avoid traveling to certain parts of the country.
Keep your valuables in a safe place while traveling.

Health in Lebanon:

Check with your doctor to ensure you get the recommended vaccinations.
Get travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Getting to Lebanon: Transportation Options and Logistics

There are several options for getting to Lebanon, including flights and buses.

Airports Near Lebanon:

Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport
Tripoli International Airport

Bus Stations Near Lebanon:

Charles Helou Bus Station in Beirut
The Cola Bus Station in Beirut

Other Options:

Taxis and other public transport provide an excellent way of getting around Lebanon.

How to Get Around in Lebanon

The best way to get around Lebanon is by renting a car, but there are other options if you don’t want to drive, such as taxis or buses.

Where to Go Next from Lebanon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Lebanon is located near several beautiful destinations, which make perfect day or weekend excursions.

Tel Aviv, Israel: A beautiful seaside city that’s only a short flight or drive away from Lebanon.
Damascus, Syria: A beautiful city with an array of cultural and historical sights, only a few hours away from Beirut by bus.
Cyprus: A Mediterranean island getaway, only an hour’s flight from Lebanon.

Conclusion

Lebanon is a hidden gem, waiting to be explored. From its stunning natural wonders to its rich cultural heritage, there’s something for everyone in this amazing country. Take your time exploring and enjoy all that Lebanon has to offer, and as always, stay safe and respectful when traveling.