3-Day Shoestring Budget Beirut Itinerary

  1. Day 1: Beirut Central District
    10 minutes (3.5 km) from Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport

    Begin your trip in Beirut with a walk around the Beirut Central District (BCD). This area is full of history and culture, with landmarks like the Martyr's Square, the Blue Mosque, and the Roman Baths. Stroll along the waterfront to the Zaitunay Bay Marina and savor some Lebanese street food in one of its stalls or hop over to Souk el Tayeb for a traditional Lebanese brunch. Take a short walk to the corniche for an evening view of sunset and dinner before retiring for the night.

  2. Day 2: Hamra - Raouché
    20 minutes (4.5 km) from Beirut Central District

    Start your day exploring Hamra, a lively neighborhood known for its cafes, bars, and shops. Take a photo with the iconic AUB graffiti wall, and check out the American University of Beirut campus. Afterwards, move to the Corniche, and take a walk to the Raouché area where you can see the famous Pigeon Rocks - a natural wonder that juts out of the sea. Feel free to laze around in one of the many shisha cafes while sinking in the stunning view.

  3. Day 3: Beit Mery, Brummana and Broummana
    30 minutes (14.2 km) from Raouché

    For a day trip to the mountains, hop on a taxi to Beit Mery for an early morning start. Head to its historic center and roam around the streets for a while before going to the nearby town of Brummana. Visit its many shops, cafes, and parks while enjoying the cold mountain breeze. Afterward, take another taxi to Broummana to visit the many churches and homes, distinguishably built of sandstone, that date back to the 19th century. Head back to the hotel, and relax before departing the next day.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Visit to Beirut Central District (2-4 hours, Free)
  • Hamra - Raouché Koronfol self-guided walking tour (2-4 hours, Free)
  • Beit Mery, Brummana and Broummana day trip (6-8 hours, approx. $20)
  • Total Estimated Costs: approx. $20

Useful Tips

If you have extra time, visit the Jeita Grotto, an underground cave that houses some of the world's most beautiful rock formations. If you are on a budget, feel free to replace the day trip to Beit Mery and Broummana with a hike to the nearby mountains. However, if you have less time, consider skipping Beit Mery and spend more time exploring Raouché or Mar Mikhail. Always make sure to check operating hours and guidelines on the Lebanese government's official travel site before leaving for your trip.

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