The National Museum of Beirut is a great introduction to Lebanese history. The exhibitions cover everything from ancient Phoenician artifacts to modern Lebanese culture. Don't miss the famous Sarcophagus of Ahiram and the Marble Statue of Isis.
Byblos is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Start with a visit to the Crusader Castle, then wander around the charming Old Souk. You'll find plenty of souvenir shops and local restaurants serving traditional Lebanese food.
The Jeita Grotto is a must-see natural wonder in Lebanon. Take a boat ride through the lower grotto and admire the dazzling formations of stalactites and stalagmites. Then, ride the cable car to the upper grotto for more stunning views.
Take the cable car from Jounieh up to the mountaintop shrine of Our Lady of Lebanon in Harissa. The views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding mountains are breathtaking. Afterward, explore the seaside town of Jounieh and its lively promenade.
The Baatara Gorge Waterfall is a natural marvel that's not easy to reach, but worth the effort. The hike down the gorge to the waterfall takes less than an hour, but it's steep and rocky. Book a local guide to make the journey safer and more informative.
The Beiteddine Palace is a magnificent Ottoman-era mansion, richly decorated with mosaics and frescoes. Nearby, the charming village of Deir El-Qamar offers a glimpse into traditional Lebanese architecture and lifestyle. Don't miss the delicious local sweets.
The Cedars of God are a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of Lebanon's natural beauty. This ancient forest of cedar trees has been revered since ancient times for its spiritual significance. After walking around the forest, visit the charming mountain town of Bcharreh.
The Sidon Sea Castle is a magnificent fortress built by the Crusaders, set against the backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea. Afterwards, wander through the charming old souks of Sidon, with their colorful textiles and ceramics. Don't miss the local seafood dishes.
The Beirut Corniche is a scenic promenade that stretches along the Mediterranean Sea, with plenty of restaurants and cafes to enjoy the view. End your trip with a visit to the famous Raouche Rocks, a natural landmark of coastal Lebanon. Take a boat ride to admire the rocks up close.
Lebanon is not a large country, so driving between attractions is a convenient and affordable option. Consider renting a car or hiring a private driver for the day if you don't want to navigate public transportation. Taxis and Ubers are also available.
If you have more time, consider visiting the Roman ruins in Baalbek or the vineyards of the Bekaa Valley. If you have less time, skip some of the attractions that are farther away from Beirut, like the Cedars of God or the Baatara Gorge Waterfall. Take advantage of the delicious Lebanese cuisine and try as many local dishes as possible!
Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY) is the main airport in Lebanon, located 9 km south of Beirut city center. It's served by many international airlines, including Middle Eastern carriers like Emirates and Qatar Airways. Taxis and buses are available from the airport to the city center.