6-Day Itinerary in Beirut

1. Sunday July 9: National Museum of Beirut
   15 minutes (3.7 miles) from Beirut Central District

   Start your trip by visiting the National Museum of Beirut in the afternoon. This museum houses an extensive collection of archaeological artifacts and art from Lebanon's history. Explore the exhibits to learn about the country's rich cultural heritage. In the evening, you can stroll along the Beirut Corniche and enjoy the beautiful sunset over the Mediterranean Sea.

   • National Museum of Beirut: $10, 2-3 hours
2. Monday July 10: Jeita Grotto and Byblos
   1 hour (15 miles) from Beirut Central District

   Embark on a day trip to Jeita Grotto, a fascinating natural wonder with stunning underground caves. Explore the caves by boat and on foot to witness the mesmerizing rock formations. Afterward, head to the historic city of Byblos, known for its ancient ruins and charming Old Town. Discover the archaeological sites, visit the Crusader Castle, and indulge in delicious Lebanese cuisine.

   • Jeita Grotto: $18, 2-3 hours
   • Byblos attractions and food: $20, 3-4 hours
3. Tuesday July 11: Beirut Souks and Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque
   10 minutes (2.2 miles) from Beirut Central District

   In the morning, explore the vibrant Beirut Souks, a modern shopping district offering a variety of stores, cafes, and restaurants. Enjoy shopping for local handicrafts, fashion, and souvenirs. Afterward, visit the iconic Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque, known for its stunning Ottoman architecture. Admire the grandeur of the mosque and learn about its significance in Lebanese culture.

   • Shopping at Beirut Souks: Varies, 2-3 hours
   • Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque: Free, 1-2 hours
4. Wednesday July 12: Sursock Museum and Gemmayzeh Street
   10 minutes (1.8 miles) from Beirut Central District

   Spend your morning exploring the Sursock Museum, a prestigious art museum showcasing contemporary and modern art from Lebanon and the region. Immerse yourself in the diverse artworks and exhibitions. In the afternoon, head to Gemmayzeh Street, a vibrant neighborhood filled with trendy bars, cafes, and boutiques. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and indulge in local cuisine.

   • Sursock Museum: $10, 2-3 hours
   • Gemmayzeh Street exploration: Varies, 2-3 hours
5. Thursday July 13: Baalbek and Anjar
   1.5 hours (53 miles) from Beirut Central District

   Embark on a full-day trip to the ancient cities of Baalbek and Anjar. Discover the well-preserved Roman ruins in Baalbek, including the Temple of Bacchus and the Temple of Jupiter. Afterward, visit Anjar, a Umayyad-era city known for its impressive ruins. Learn about the history of these archaeological sites and be amazed by their architectural splendor.

   • Baalbek entrance fee: $18, 3-4 hours
   • Anjar entrance fee: $12, 2-3 hours
6. Friday July 14: Pigeon Rocks and Zaitunay Bay
   15 minutes (2.7 miles) from Beirut Central District

   Conclude your trip by visiting the iconic Pigeon Rocks, natural rock formations standing tall in the Mediterranean Sea. Take a relaxing walk along the Corniche and enjoy the picturesque views. In the evening, head to Zaitunay Bay, a waterfront promenade filled with upscale restaurants and cafes. Indulge in a delightful dinner while soaking in the serene atmosphere.

   • Visit Pigeon Rocks: Free, 1-2 hours
   • Dinner at Zaitunay Bay: Varies, 2-3 hours

Recommendations

If you have extra time, consider visiting the Beirut Art Center or taking a day trip to the Chouf Cedar Reserve. Both offer unique cultural and natural experiences. To make the most of your money and have a lot of fun, try bargaining at local markets like Souk Al-Ahad and Souk el Tayeb for great deals on traditional crafts and delicious street food. Additionally, joining a guided walking tour can provide insightful knowledge about the city's history and hidden gems.