8-Day Itinerary for Lebanon

1. Day 1: Beirut National Museum
   15-minute drive from Beirut city center

   Explore Lebanon's history through archaeological exhibits and artifacts from prehistoric times until the Mamluk period.

2. Day 2: Byblos Castle and Old Souk
   1-hour drive from Beirut

   Discover the ancient ruins of Byblos Castle and explore the charming Old Souk filled with shops and restaurants.

3. Day 3: Jeita Grotto and Harissa
   35-minute drive from Beirut

   Marvel at the natural beauty of the Jeita Grotto caves before heading up to the towering statue of the Virgin Mary in Harissa.

4. Day 4: Baatara Gorge Waterfall and Cedars of God
   2-hour drive from Beirut

   Hike to the breathtaking Baatara Gorge Waterfall before winding through the majestic Cedars of God forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

5. Day 5: Tyre and Sidon
   1.5-hour drive from Beirut

   Explore the historical cities of Tyre and Sidon, filled with ancient ruins, markets, and stunning sea views.

6. Day 6: Beiteddine Palace and Deir El Qamar
   1-hour drive from Beirut

   Stroll through the beautiful Beiteddine Palace, a testament to Lebanon's rich history and culture, before visiting the charming village of Deir El Qamar.

7. Day 7: Chouf Cedar Nature Reserve and Barouk
   1-hour drive from Beirut

   Hike through the magnificent Chouf Cedar Nature Reserve and visit the picturesque mountain village of Barouk.

8. Day 8: Sursock Museum and Downtown Beirut
   15-minute drive from Beirut

   Explore the contemporary artwork and exhibitions at the Sursock Museum before wandering through the historic streets of Downtown Beirut, filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Beirut National Museum (2 hours, $10)
• Byblos Castle and Old Souk (3 hours, $15)
• Jeita Grotto and Harissa (6 hours, $40)
• Baatara Gorge Waterfall and Cedars of God (8 hours, $20)
• Tyre and Sidon (8 hours, $30)
• Beiteddine Palace and Deir El Qamar (6 hours, $20)
• Chouf Cedar Nature Reserve and Barouk (4 hours, $10)
• Sursock Museum and Downtown Beirut (4 hours, $15)

Total Estimated Costs: $175

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider adding a day trip to the ancient ruins of Baalbek, or a wine tasting tour in the Bekaa Valley. If you have less time, consider skipping Tyre and Sidon or Chouf Cedar Nature Reserve and Barouk. Don't forget to try some traditional Lebanese food like tabbouleh, hummus, and shawarma!