6-Day Itinerary for Exploring Lebanon

  • Day 1: Beirut Souks
    10 minutes (3.5 km) from Rafic Hariri International Airport

    Start your trip by exploring the vibrant Beirut Souks, a modern shopping district in the heart of downtown Beirut. Enjoy the local shops, cafes, and outdoor entertainment.

  • Day 2: Jeita Grotto and Byblos
    30 minutes (20 km) from Beirut

    Explore Jeita Grotto, a stunning natural wonder and then head to the ancient port of Byblos, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Walk around the historic streets and enjoy the seaside views.

  • Day 3: Baatara Gorge and Cedars of God
    1 hour and 30 minutes (80 km) from Byblos

    Admire the waterfall and natural bridge at Baatara Gorge before heading to the Cedars of God, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is home to some of the oldest trees in the world. Take a peaceful walk among the impressive trees.

  • Day 4: Anjar and Ein Zhalta
    1 hour and 30 minutes (65 km) from Cedars of God

    Visit the ancient ruins of Anjar, a UNESCO World Heritage site that was once a bustling marketplace. Then, head to Ein Zhalta, a beautiful village that is known for its natural spring water and stunning views of the Lebanese mountains.

  • Day 5: Tyre and Sidon
    1 hour and 20 minutes (65 km) from Ein Zhalta

    Explore the historic port cities of Tyre and Sidon. Tyre is famous for its ancient ruins, including the impressive Roman Hippodrome. Sidon is known for its beautiful sea castle, the castle of Saint-Louis, and Debbane Palace.

  • Day 6: Beirut National Museum and Pigeon Rocks
    15 minutes (4 km) from Beirut Souks

    Learn about the history of Lebanon and the surrounding region at Beirut National Museum. End your trip by taking in the stunning views of the Pigeon Rocks, a natural rock formation that juts out of the Mediterranean Sea.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Jeita Grotto (2 hours, $20)
  • Byblos (3 hours, $15)
  • Baatara Gorge (1 hour, free)
  • Cedars of God (2 hours, $10)
  • Anjar (2 hours, $5)
  • Ein Zhalta (3 hours, free)
  • Tyre (3 hours, $10)
  • Sidon (3 hours, $15)
  • Beirut National Museum (2 hours, $15)
  • Pigeon Rocks (1 hour, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $90

Transportation

Travelers can get around Lebanon by bus, taxi, or rental car. To save money, take buses, which are reliable and connect most cities. Alternatively, taxis are readily available, but they are more expensive than buses and can be difficult to find in some rural areas. Rental cars are affordable and allow for more flexibility, but be aware that driving in Lebanon can be challenging due to narrow roads and heavy traffic. Expect to pay around $20-40 per day for a rental car and around $5 for a short taxi ride.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the Bekaa Valley, known for its beautiful vineyards and Roman ruins. Another option is to spend some time in the Chouf Mountains, where you can hike and explore quaint mountain villages. If you have less time, skip Tyre and Sidon and spend an extra day in Byblos or Beirut.

Airports

The main airport in Lebanon is Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY). It is located in Beirut, approximately 10 minutes (3.5km) from the Beirut Souks. Other airports in Lebanon include the Beirut-Rafic Hariri Domestic Airport, which serves domestic flights only, and the Rayak Air Base, which is used for military purposes.

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