lebanese places to visit

13 Stunning Places to Visit in Lebanon

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What are the best places to visit in Lebanon? If you’re planning a trip to Lebanon, where should you go? Lebanon is a fantastic little country with so much to see!

The good news is that Lebanon is a compact country. So compact that it’s possible to base in Beirut the whole time and take day trips all over the country. That’s what I did on my trip — and it made it so easy to travel all over Lebanon while coming back to the same bed every night.

One of the things I love most about Lebanon is its cultural diversity. The population is about 45% Christian and 50% Muslim, with 18 recognized religious groups. There’s a sizable Armenian population, too, and people with origins all over the Middle East and the world.

Consequently, there are parts of Lebanon that feel very European, and parts of Lebanon that feel very Middle Eastern. Places where you can default to French and places where you’ll need to know a few words of Arabic.

Lebanon is geographically diverse, too — mountains, deserts, waterfalls, cities of all sizes. In Lebanon you could theoretically ski in the morning and lie on the beach in the afternoon! (Granted, you can only do that in the winter, so it wouldn’t quite be sunbathing weather, but I digress…)

Here are my picks for the best places to visit in Lebanon — along with how to get there, Lebanon safety information, and the best things to do in Lebanon.

Table of Contents

Best Places to Visit in Lebanon

All roads lead to Beirut in Lebanon, and Beirut makes a great base for your whole trip. But as far as day trips go, you have freedom to shake things up.

If you could only visit three places in Lebanon besides Beirut, I would recommend the seaside town of Byblos , the Roman ruins of Baalbek , and the small city of Tyre .

Lebanon is a lot safer than you think it is . You don’t need to worry about war or terrorism more than you do in other countries, and common sense will get you far, but it’s smart to check the latest news before you go.

Baalbek is in the Beqaa Valley, close to the Syria border in Hezbollah-controlled territory. To get to Baalbek , it’s best to hire a private driver or join a day tour from Beirut.

Beirut is one of the best, most vibrant, most exciting cities in the Middle East. Because it’s much more liberal than other Middle Eastern cities, there is a huge party scene, from the wild beach clubs to the roof-retracting nightclubs. But beyond the nightlife, you have centuries of history and different cultures coming together. Oh, and did I mention how good the food is here?!

Have a night out bar-hopping on Armenia Street in Mar Mikael; stroll along the Corniche in the morning; check out the cafes on Hamrun Street; visit the National Museum of Beirut; take the Alternative Tour Beirut to learn more about Lebanon from a holistic perspective; spend a day at a beach club; shop in the Beirut Souks (more a mall than souks).

How to get to Beirut: Lebanon’s land borders are closed, so the easiest way to get to Beirut is to fly. Check Skyscanner for the best rates. There are also some ferries from Cyprus.

For me, Lebanon was part of a larger trip, so I flew to Beirut from Amsterdam via Istanbul on Pegasus Airlines. On the way back I flew from Beirut to Larnaca, Cyprus, spent a few days there, and flew back to Amsterdam.

Where to Stay in Beirut: See the Where to Stay in Lebanon section below for my top accommodation picks in Beirut.

Byblos — known as Jbeil in Arabic — is easily one of the most beautiful places to visit in Lebanon. This seaside village north of Beirut looks like it could be a coastal town in Montenegro with its teal waters, palm trees, sandstone old town, and mountains rising in the background.

You might notice that the word “Byblos” is related to books — well, there’s reason for that. Byblos was a trade center for papyrus, importing it from Egypt and exporting it throughout the Aegean, distributing the earliest books.

Today in Byblos, you can visit the ruins, walk along the water, shop in the souk (now filled with souvenir shops more than anything else), or enjoy fresh seafood at one of the cafes with a water view.

Byblos is one of Lebanon’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, designated for being one of the oldest Phoenician cities, inhabited since Neolithic times, and for helping create the Phoenician alphabet.

How to get to Byblos: Byblos is about a 45-minute drive from Beirut. It’s doable with an Uber, but you may have trouble finding an Uber to take you back to Beirut. Minibuses to Byblos (Jbeil) leave from Charles Helou bus station in Beirut, though they drop you off along the highway, about a 15-minute walk from town. This day tour from Beirut includes Byblos, Jeita Grotto, and Harissa.

Tyre, also known as Sour (pronounced soor ), was one of the most important cities on the Mediterranean. Today, this city in southern Lebanon is home to fine Roman ruins perched up against the sea, a pleasant and walkable small town, incredibly friendly people, and fresh flowers bursting out in every direction.

Some places give you great vibes from the moment you arrive. That was Tyre to me. It was walking along the seaside and having fresh orange juice with a mother and her young son. It was being one of the few people at the ruins, wondering why it wasn’t full of tourists. It was wandering through the town and photographing each piece of it.

Tyre is one of Lebanon’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, designated for its ancient ruins, history as a Phoenician city, founding of cities like Cadiz and Carthage — and their achievement of inventing purple dye!

How to Get to Tyre: Tyre is about a one hour and 45-minute drive from Beirut. For public transportation, the minibus to Tyre (Sour) leaves from Cola Intersection in Beirut and you may need to change minibuses in Sidon (Saida) along the way. This day trip from Beirut visits Tyre, Sidon, and Maghdouche.

Harissa is home to one of the most famous sights in Lebanon: the Our Lady of Lebanon statue, perched on a mountaintop, seeming to look over the nation. Come to Harissa and you, too, can enjoy this Lebanese pilgrimage site — and spectacular views at 650 meters above sea level.

The Sanctuary here was created to honor the Virgin Mary — and serves as a place for peace-gathering workshops and activities between Christians and Muslims, and denominations within Lebanon’s 18 religious groups.

The most fun way to get to Harissa is to take a cable car to the top! It leaves from the seaside city of Jounieh.

How to get to Harissa: Harissa is about a 40-minute drive from Beirut. While you can drive there, you might enjoy it more if you drive to Jounieh and take the cable car to Harissa, a nine-minute journey. For public transportation, the minibus to Jounieh leaves from Charles Helou bus station in Beirut. This day tour from Beirut includes Harissa, Byblos and Jeita Grotto.

Get ready to see some of the best Roman ruins of your life! I’m not a huge fan of ruins in general, but Baalbek is home to some of the best ruins I’ve ever seen, the kind that stun you into silence. The scale alone is mind-boggling.

Baalbek is the ruins of the city once known as Heliopolis, the City of the Sun. The four temples here — dedicated to Jupiter, Mercury, Venus, and Bacchus, after Roman gods — are some of the largest remaining temples of the Roman Empire. You can also witness the two of the largest stone blocks in antiquity: the Stone of the Pregnant Woman, clocking in at 1,000 tons, and a block simply known as the megalith, clocking in at 1,650 tons!

If you’re looking to feel like an adventurer in Lebanon, there’s no better place than Baalbek. Climb to the top of the temples and enjoy the views around you, as the most powerful Romans once did.

Baalbek is one of Lebanon’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, designated for its history as a Phoenician city and its enormous ruins, which are one of the finest surviving examples of Roman architecture.

How to get to Baalbek: Baalbek is about a two-hour drive from Beirut. I recommend spending a day exploring Baalbek in tandem with Anjar and the Beqaa Valley, possibly including a winery. This is best done with a private driver or day tour. This day tour from Beirut includes Baalbek, Anjar, and stop at Ksara Winery.

For public transportation, go to Cola Intersection in Beirut and say you want to go to Baalbek; you will be brought to a minibus to Chtaura, then you can change minibuses to get to Baalbek.

The drive to Bcharré, or Bsharri in Arabic, takes you through the winding roads of the Qadisha Valley, into river-carved canyons and mist-covered mountains. From there you’ll enjoy views that pull on your heartstrings. If you visit in the winter, you might even get to see snow.

Bcharré is famed for being the home of Lebanese-American poet, writer and artist Kahlil Gibran. The Gibran Museum was once a shelter for hermetic monks, carved into life from the rocks; today, it hosts Gibran’s tomb and a collection of his writings and drawings.

And the view above, one of my favorite views in Lebanon, it taken from the museum itself.

How to get to Bcharré: Bcharré is about a two-hour drive from Beirut. For public transportation, there is a daily minibus to Bcharré (Bsharri) that leaves from Dowra Intersection in Beirut. This day tour takes you through Bcharré, the Qadisha Valley, and the Cedars of Lebanon.

Cedars of God

Cedars are one of the most recognized symbols of Lebanon today. It proudly adorns the Lebanese flag. For centuries, these trees were lauded for their strength. The Phoenicians used their wood for boats; the Egyptians used their resin for tombs. Even U2 has a song called Cedars of Lebanon.

Sadly, there aren’t a lot of cedars remaining today. While they once covered the countryside around Lebanon, massive deforestation has led to their numbers dwindling. Cedars of God Park outside Bcharré is one of the places to see them. It’s worth visiting and hiking through the park to see their majesty up close — but seeing so few of them may leave you a bit depressed.

The cedars are fiercely protected today, however, and reforestation efforts are underway. But they take a long time to grow to adulthood, we won’t be seeing abundant cedar forests for decades.

The Cedars of God are one of Lebanon’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, shared with the Kadisha Valley. They received this designation for their history as the most prized wood used for constructing religious buildings.

How to get to the Cedars of God: Cedars of God in Bcharré is about a two-hour drive from Beirut. For public transportation, there is a daily minibus to Bcharré (Bsharri) that leaves from Dowra Intersection in Beirut. This day tour takes you through Bcharré, the Qadisha Valley, and the Cedars of Lebanon. Alternatively, this tour gives you a full day of hiking in the Cedars .

Jeita Grotto

Jeita Grotto is just outside Beirut, making it a super-easy afternoon trip (and a cool relief from a hot day!). This grotto is a system of two limestone caves. They consist of two sets of caves: the lower caves and the upper caves.

The lower caves are home to a river that provides fresh water for many people in Lebanon, and you can visit by boat. It’s a spooky but beautiful experience, especially in the boat, with the water lit up bright blue. The upper caves have a pathway to explore on foot, and they’re home to the largest stalactite in the world: 8.2 meters (27 feet) long!

Keep in mind that Jeita Grotto is VERY strict about no photos allowed. Don’t try to sneak one.

Jeita Grotto is close to Harissa and Byblos, making it a great day out to visit all three. (Though you may want to allot the most time to Byblos.)

How to get to Jeita Grotto: Jeita Grotto is about a 30-minute drive from Beirut. You can easily take an Uber there, as I did; you can’t pick up Ubers there, though, so I took a taxi from Jeita Grotto on to Byblos. This day tour from Beirut includes Jeita Grotto, Harissa, and Byblos.

Qadisha Valley and Qozhaya

The Qadisha Valley feels like a world away from Beirut — but in a day trip you can see quite a bit of it. Mountains rise into the mist; rivers wind through the countryside, and mammoth rock faces give way to monasteries. The Qadisha Valley — also called the Kadisha Valley — was home to some of the earliest Christians fleeing persecution.

Qozhaya (Kozhaya) is one of the most important monasteries in the Qadisha Valley, and home to a convent dedicated to St. Anthony. A long drive through a wooded canyon takes you to the buildings, examples of Arabic architecture in the Middle Ages, and a rock-hewn chapel painstakingly built inside a cave.

The Qadisha Valley is one of the best places to visit in Lebanon if you’re looking to enjoy nature. Here you can hike, climb mountains, or even ski.

The Qadisha Valley is one of Lebanon’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, designated for its history as one of the most important early Christian monastic settlements.

How to get to Qozhaya: The Qadisha Valley is about a 90-minute drive from Beirut. Qozhaya is best visited by hiring a private driver or booking a day tour from Beirut. This day tour takes you through Bcharré, the Qadisha Valley, and the Cedars of Lebanon.

Sidon, also known as Saida, is a port city to the south of Beirut. Though it has a storied history, Sidon is one of the lower-key, calmer cities to visit in Lebanon, and one of the easier side trips from Beirut.

Sidon is famous for two places in particular: its outstanding souks, some of the most picturesque in Lebanon, which sell both traditional and modern wares in their traditional small stalls; and the Sea Castle, which was built by the crusaders as a fortress of the Holy Land.

Sidon is about 45 minutes from Tyre, so it makes sense to pair them together on a day trip from Beirut.

How to get to Sidon: Sidon is about a one-hour drive from Lebanon. For public transportation, take a minibus to Sidon (Saida) from Cola Intersection in Beirut. This day trip from Beirut visits Tyre, Sidon, and Maghdouche.

If you’re visiting the ruins of Baalbek, you should visit Anjar too — and most drivers or tours will take you to both. Anjar may not have the sweeping majesty of Baalbek, but these ruins have something unique: spectacular arches that were designed by the Umayyads. Before the Anjar ruins were studied by archaeologists, there was no other evidence of the Umayyad Caliphate in Lebanon.

Anjar’s ruins are just a stone’s throw from the Syrian border (a mountain range divides the two countries). The city of Anjar is also home to one of the biggest communities of the Armenian diaspora in Lebanon. The city is also known for its four-sided wells.

Anjar is one of Lebanon’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, designated for its ruins, which survive as an example of city planning under the Umayyads.

How to get to Anjar: Anjar is about a 90-minute drive from Beirut. This destination is best seen in tandem with Baalbek and the Beqaa Valley, either by hiring a private driver or booking a day tour. This day tour from Beirut includes Baalbek, Anjar, and stop at Ksara Winery.

Ksara, Wine Country, and the Bekaa Valley

Did you know that Lebanon has a thriving wine scene? That might be surprising for a Middle Eastern country, but not so much in retrospective when you consider its multi-ethnic background and its location right on the Mediterranean.

The best wines grow in high-altitude areas of Bekaa Valley, close to Baalbek and Anjar. Whites are nice but forgettable; where the region truly shines is Bordeaux-style reds and dry rosés.

Chateau Ksara is one of the popular wineries and they welcome travelers for tours, tastings, and lunches. Of course, if you plan on sampling the wines, you should not be driving that day — this is a good time to come on a tour or book a private driver!

How to get to Ksara and the Bekaa Valley: Chateau Ksara is a 90-minute drive from Beirut. Many tour companies include a stop at Chateau Ksara as part of their tours in the Bekaa Valley. This day tour from Beirut includes Baalbek, Anjar, and stop at Ksara Winery. Alternatively, this wine tour spends the whole day visiting wineries in the Bekaa Valley .

Finally, there’s Tripoli, or Trablous in Arabic — the second-largest city in Lebanon and a place that isn’t on most travelers’ itineraries. (Oh, and it’s definitely not the Tripoli in Libya!) If you do visit, though, you’ll get to enjoy a warm and welcoming city little-touched by tourism.

Tripoli has seen some hard times, and it’s one of the poorer cities in Lebanon. But there is a lot of beauty here — an Old City brimming with Mamluk architecture; dozens of souks, some of which specialize in gold or silver or fruits and vegetables or soap; and friendly locals eager to welcome you.

The El Mina neighborhood of Tripoli almost feels like another city, more like a calm seaside village. Offshore you can visit the Palm Islands Reserve and its protected turtles. Be sure to try some of Tripoli’s famous sweets (and if you’re a foreigner in the souk, everyone’s going to want you to sample theirs!).

How to get to Tripoli: Tripoli is a 90-minute drive from Beirut. For public transportation, take the Connexion bus from Charles Helou Station, which takes closer to two hours. This Tripoli day trip from Beirut gives you several hours in Tripoli, plus a stopover in Batroun or Byblos on the way back.

Is Lebanon Safe?

Is it safe to travel around Lebanon? Like most places in the Middle East, Lebanon is a lot safer than cable news would have you believe. The media paints the image of war, suicide bombers, and riots. Lebanon does have its problems — and has had some tough situations in recent years — but it’s not a war zone.

I traveled Lebanon as a solo woman in 2018 and didn’t feel uncomfortable at all — in fact, I was pleased with how much respect I was given as a woman. Then again, I chose not to visit Tripoli on advice from a local woman who advised me not to go alone (though other locals later told me that as an experienced solo traveler, I would have been fine).

In many ways, I felt safer as a woman in Lebanon than I have felt in many other countries. At one point, I had to sit next to a man on a minibus (usually women are sat next to women, but sometimes there’s a full bus and no other option). The man left six inches of space between us! That NEVER happened on the subway in New York!

Another issue is that part of the Bekaa Valley, including Baalbek and Anjar, is controlled by Hezbollah. When you enter that area, you pass through military checkpoints, as you do throughout Lebanon. (They are fast and easy and the guards usually have a smile for you.) Yes, it’s unnerving, especially since Hezbollah flags are for sale as souvenirs (!!), but most of the time tourists are able to visit safely.

The most important thing is to do your research before you arrive. Lebanon is not a place to arrive on a whim; doing proper research is essential. So where do you start?

I found this detailed post by Against the Compass  to be an excellent resource for travel safety in Lebanon. It’s updated periodically with the latest safety information. I encourage you to save it and take a closer look before your trip.

I also recommend checking out the  US State Department travel advisory  and  UK travel safety advice  for Lebanon. I find that the US warnings tend to be more alarmist, while the UK warnings tend to be more realistic.

Most importantly, travel insurance is essential for trips to Lebanon — and to anywhere else in the world, frankly. If you need to be hospitalized with a broken bone or appendicitis, or if you have an emergency and miss your trip, or if you get robbed on a bus, travel insurance will help you recoup your financial losses. I use and recommend  World Nomads .

Solo Female Travel in Lebanon: Is it Safe?

Top 10 Travel Safety Tips for Women

Where to Stay in Lebanon

Where’s the best place to stay in Lebanon? If you’re trying to see a lot of the country in a relatively short amount of time, it makes the most sense to stay in Beirut and do day trips. I stayed at the Radisson Blu Martinez . But there are options for all kinds of travelers.

If you want a fancy, crazy luxury experience: If you want top-notch luxury finishings and decor, go with the Sofitel Beirut Le Gabriel — it’s the best. If you want a splashed-out resort experience, go with the Movenpick Beirut , which has its own massive beach club.

If you want a small but funky local boutique hotel: The Albergo Hotel in the Achrafieh neighborhood has plant-filled terraces, local over-the-top decor, and a rooftop with a pool and outstanding views of the city.

If you want a mid-range hotel: The Radisson Blu Martinez , where I stayed, ticks all the boxes. The rooms are simple and the decor is dated, but it’s a solid option in a great neighborhood close to everything.

If you want a cheap but value-for-money place to stay: Loft 29 Residence is in the heart of the cool Hamra neighborhood, has all the facilities of apartments like laundry and a kitchen, and offers a free airport pickup in addition to very well-priced rooms.

Find deals on more places to stay in Beirut here.

How to Get Around Lebanon

There are three main ways to get around Lebanon: you can get around by driving (either renting a car, hiring a private driver, or using Uber for short distances), you can take public transportation (mostly minibuses), or you can book organized day trips.

Should you rent a car in Lebanon? For most people, I don’t recommend it. Lebanon is home to some of the worst driving I’ve ever seen (it’s up there with Georgia and Malta). Traffic into and out of Beirut is hectic, and drivers don’t hesitate to cut across entire highways, with no warning or turn signal.

I’ve driven in lots of countries, but I had ZERO desire to drive in Lebanon once I realized how crazy it would be. You may be different, though. If you thrive in driving in erratic environments, you might enjoy driving in Lebanon.

Otherwise, there’s hiring a private driver (which can start at $150 per day and get pricier from there); and hiring one-way taxis and/or Ubers. Ubers are mainly based in Beirut, so you’ll need to use taxis on the way back.

It’s also worth noting that not a lot of drivers in Lebanon have working seat belts in their cars.

Taking public transportation is another option. Minibuses operate from Beirut all over Lebanon, departing from Cola Intersection (usually points northeast and south) and Charles Helou Bus Station (usually points north).

It’s chaotic when you get there and it seems like there are no rules! But ask where you’re supposed to go and people will help direct you. Women are sat next to women on minibuses unless there’s no other option; you pay when you arrive at your destination. Bring small bills.

I found Tyre and Sidon to be an easy day trip to do by public transportation: it’s a straightforward journey down the highway; the minibuses drop you off in town; both cities can be easily explored on foot.

Finally, there are group day tours from Beirut. I’m not usually a take-a-day-tour-on-the-bus person, but I was glad I did two tours in particular: one to the Qozhaya Valley with Bcharré and the Cedars of Lebanon , and one to Baalbek, Anjar, and Ksara Winery . Those trips would be impossible to do in a day on public transit, and they went too far for an Uber or cab driver.

More on Lebanon:

What’s It REALLY Like to Travel in Lebanon?

More from the Middle East:

Visiting Petra in Jordan

Hanging Out in Kadikoy in Istanbul

Visiting the Burj al’Arab in Dubai

Have you been to Lebanon? What are your recommendations?

18 Breathtaking Spots To Visit In Lebanon

Natural landmarks, historical monuments, religious sites… Lebanon is full of wonderful gems worth exploring!

Are you wondering where to find them? We’ve got you covered!

In this post, we’ll show you 18 breathtaking spots to add to your bucket list* , so let’s go!

* In no particular order.

1. Jeita Grotto

Jeita Grotto is one of the longest caves in the Middle East, spanning 9km across the Nahr Al Kalb valley. It was chosen as an official finalist representing Lebanon in the 7 Wonders of Nature competition!

The cave consists of 2 parts: the Upper Grotto which you can visit on foot, and the Lower Grotto which you’ll explore on a dreamy boat trip!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Live Love Beirut (@livelovebeirut)

2. Cedars of God

You can’t be in Lebanon without exploring its majestic Cedars ! There are many Cedar forests in Lebanon , but the most famous one is the Cedars of God forest in Bcharre. Take a walk in the forest, and discover Cedar trees dating back thousands of years. You can also adopt your own Cedar tree!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lebanon Explorer | Travel guide to 🇱🇧 (@lebanon_explorer)

3. Raouche rock

Raouche Rock (also known as Pigeons rock) is a natural landmark in Beirut that was formed after a big earthquake hit the area in the 13th century. To check this wonderful gem, head to the Manara Cornish located right by its side, or rent a boat to explore it from the sea!

4. Qornayel Lakes

Take a 1-hour ride from Beirut to Qornayel village, then hike through a wonderful pine forest to reach these natural lakes. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the hills, valleys, and greenery all around you! Consider having your hike at sunset for an even more special experience.

5. Chowen Lake

Located in Jabal Moussa Biosphere Reserve, Chowen Lake is one of the top destinations to visit in Lebanon! Take a 45-minute hike from the parking lot through the mountain to reach a gorgeous blue lake. Then, take a dip in the refreshing water and enjoy a relaxing day in this little paradise!

Further reading: Looking for more hiking places in Lebanon? Click here .

6. Chekka Historic Tunnel

Check out this hidden gem in Hamat where the mountain meets the sea! Park your car near the tunnel on the seaside road, then walk on a parallel side trail right above the sea. You’ll see historical tunnels, a hidden staircase, and astonishing views!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Live Love Chekka (@livelovechekka)

7. Baloue Balaa

Located in Tannourine, Baloue Balaa (also known as Baatara Gorge) is a must-visit destination! The waterfall drops 255 meters into a fascinating cave known as the Cave of the Three Bridges. Take a 10-minute walk from the parking lot to reach this magical spot.

Further Reading: Click here to explore more beautiful waterfalls in Lebanon.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 𝐏 E𝐥𝐢𝐞 k𝐨𝐫k𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐳 (@flyoverlebanon)

8. Naqoura Sea wall

Located South of Lebanon, Naqoura Sea Wall is a unique spot that you don’t want to miss! Have a small hike to reach this beautiful landmark where you can enjoy the lovely scenery from its top, or take a dip in the crystal blue water.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Live Love Tyre (@livelove.tyre)

9. Afqa Waterfall

Afqa waterfall is another top destination worth exploring. It’s the source that feeds the Nahr Ibrahim river. The waterfall comes out from a stunning cave that will take your breath away! You can enter the cave and admire it from the inside and also swim in the lake where it falls.

10. the highest swing in the middle east

Head to Dennieh in North Lebanon where you’ll find the highest swing in the Middle East! The swing is 21 meters high, located on the top of the mountain, and overlooks the spectacular landscape of the Dennieh region. You can see the sea from one side, and Qornet El Sawda from the other!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by lebanon . danniye (@live.love.danniye)

11. Baalbek Roman Ruins

Baalbek is the home of 2 of the largest and grandest temple ruins: the temple of Bacchus and the Temple of Jupiter. It’s also a UNESCO world heritage site! Visit this iconic site and uncover the rich history of Lebanon.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Live Love Baalbeck (@livelove.baalbeck)

12. Saint Charbel’s Tallest Statue

When you’re in Faraya, make sure to visit Saint Charbel’s tallest statue, and enjoy the breathtaking views from above! The statue has a height of 24 meters and a weight of 40 Tons and overlooks Faraya and its surrounding mountains.

Further reading: While in Faraya, check out our top things to do there !

View this post on Instagram A post shared by livelovefaraya (@livelovefarayaa)

13. Our Lady of Lebanon

Our Lady of Lebanon is one of the top religious and tourist sites to visit in Lebanon! Drive to Harissa or take a cable car from Jounieh to reach this holy place. Relax in a peaceful atmosphere and enjoy one of the most beautiful views over Jounieh’s Bay!

14. Kfarhelda Waterfalls

Welcome to Kfarhelda waterfalls, a hidden gem in the Batroun mountains. Take a 10-minute walk from the parking lot to reach a breathtaking waterfall. The river flow will lead you to another waterfall, shorter than the first one and also worth exploring!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Live Love Kfarhelda (@livelovekfarhelda)

15. Sidon Sea Castle

Head to Saida in South Lebanon and discover its magnificent Sea Castle! It was built by the crusaders in the 13th century as a fortress of the holy land. It was then damaged and restored many times throughout the years. Now, it mainly consists of 2 towers connected by a wall, and overlooks the old city and fishing harbor.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Live Love Saida (@livelove.saida)

16. Laklouk Cross

Visit Saydet El Qarn Monastery in Laklouk, then walk on a path beside it that leads to a cross on top of the mountain. You’ll see incredible views of natural blue lakes and the surrounding mountains! (It’s best to visit during sunset).

Further Reading: Take a look at our guide for the best things to do in Laklouk .

17. La Jetée

La Jetée is the perfect spot in Bcharre to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Qadisha valley! This holy valley has sheltered Christian monastic communities for many centuries and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1998.

18. Baakline Waterfalls

Baakline is a small village in Chouf, known for its beautiful waterfalls that keep flowing from their sources all year round. These waterfalls are now home to many restaurants where you can enjoy an authentic Lebanese meal with a view!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Live Love Baakline (@livelovebaakline)

Lebanon is full of breathtaking landmarks that you don’t want to miss! So make your bucket list and discover as many places as you can to get the most out of this exceptional country.

Did your favorite spot make it to this list? And which of these places would you like to visit? Leave us a comment right below.

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12 Incredible Places to Visit in Lebanon

Nestled along the eastern Mediterranean coast, Lebanon is a small nation—about a quarter the size of Switzerland—jam-packed with a diversity of things to see, do, and experience.

From its beaches to its ancient ruins, age-old cedar forests, bustling markets, and scenic mountains, Lebanon holds great appeal with its variety of beautiful places, many of them designated UNESCO World Heritage sites .

Pair all of this with amazing food, a friendly and hospitable population, and an agreeable climate, and Lebanon makes a great Middle East travel destination for families.

The country has a fascinating history stretching back more than 7,000 years. The Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Ottomans, and the French (among others) all left their marks here.

Today, the nation’s 18 different religious groups (all of which have representation in parliament) make Lebanon quite religiously diverse in comparison to other Middle Eastern nations.

Lebanon has seen its fair share of violence and upheaval over the course of its more recent history, and sectarianism still remains an ongoing issue. However, most of Lebanon remains safe and feasible for family travel, with English, French and Arabic all widely spoken.

Best Way to Get to Lebanon

Bordered by Israel to the south and Syria to the east and north, crossing overland into Lebanon can be difficult and complicated.

The best and safest way to get to Lebanon is to fly directly to Beirut’s Rafik Hariri International Airport (BEY).

As well as the national airline MEA (Middle East Airlines), BEY is serviced by airlines including Etihad, Emirates, Saudi, Air France and Lufthansa.

Best Places to Visit in Lebanon

Below are some of the top places to see in Lebanon that you’ll find to fit into a family itinerary visiting this small but vibrant country.

Lebanon’s cosmopolitan capital on the coast, Beirut, is an energetic, chaotic and dazzling feast for the senses. From the country’s recent economic crisis to the devastating Beirut port explosion of 2020, which destroyed some of the most vibrant neighbourhoods, the capital has experienced some hard times in recent years.

However, this is a city that rewards those who take the time to explore it with vibrant neighbourhoods, interesting architecture, and great restaurants. With a diverse population, Beirut is quite culturally open and welcoming to visitors.

The city’s long, wide corniche along the sea is ideal for renting bicycles or for taking a stroll to people watch or see the sunset. The famous Pigeon Rocks are a must-see. Burj Hammoud, the Armenian Quarter, is a great place to taste some local specialities while watching artisans at work and in their shops.

Visit the National Museum of Beirut which has some fascinating archaeological pieces from Lebanon’s incredibly layered history and learn more about the incredible story of how its relics were protected from 15 years of civil war.

Browse the higher-end boutiques in Saifi Village, Downtown Beirut, or visit the Souk al Tayeb in Mar Mikhael for authentic locally-sourced meals while picking up souvenirs made by local designers and artisans at its Saturday market.

You can find our complete guide to visiting Beirut with kids here .

How to get there:

Fly to Beirut’s Rafik Hariri International Airport, which is about a 20-30 minute taxi ride from Beirut’s centre. As Lebanon is a small country, Beirut makes an easy base from which to organize day trips around the rest of the country. For the most convenient travel, it’s best to rent a car or book taxis in advance.  

Beirut does not have a well-organized public transport system. While there are some minibuses, their routes and schedules can be difficult to access. It’s, therefore, easier and more convenient to travel throughout Beirut by pre-booked taxi.

Companies like Allo Taxi are recommended, and apps like Uber and Bolt are widely used.

2. Harissa & the Télépherique

A stone’s throw from Beirut is the town of Jounieh, sitting north on the coast, from where you can take the Téléferique, a roughly 10-minute cable car ride up to Harissa. The ride offers some lovely views along the coast.

At the top, take a funicular up to Harissa, the location of the Our Lady of Lebanon , a large white-painted bronze statue of the Virgin Mary, arms outstretched. A site of pilgrimage for many Christians, the area offers more beautiful views, which you can take in from one of the area’s cafés. This is an easy half-day trip from Beirut.

Jounieh is about a 30-minute ride up the coast road from Beirut by car or taxi.

3. Jeita Grotto

Located about 22km from Beirut, the Jeita Grotto makes a nice day or half-day trip from the capital; it appeals to both kids and adults. The grotto itself, an impressive array of stalactites and stalagmites, is divided into the upper and lower caverns.

The upper cavern can be reached by a short cable car ride and toured on foot. The lower cavern is particularly fun as it can be toured via a boat ride through a strikingly clear and well-illuminated lake.

Apart from the grotto there are some restaurants and cafés at Jeita where you can easily grab lunch or a snack.

Jeita is about a 30-minute drive north and east of Beirut, conveniently reached by car or taxi. 

4. Deir al-Qamar

About 40 km southeast of Beirut, Deir al-Qmar is a pleasant little village nestled in the lush Chouf mountains. Perched along the edge of a picturesque valley, the village’s distinctive stone houses and winding cobblestone back streets make it a lovely place to take a break from the hustle of Beirut.

The village’s expansive main square with a fountain in its centre is bordered by the Fakhreddine Mosque, which dates back to the 15 th century. Another quirky feature of the town is the Marie Baz Wax Museum, which contains 150 figures important to the history of Lebanon. Cafes and restaurants are all located within walking distance.

A visit to Deir al-Qamar also works well in tandem with a visit to the Beiteddine Palace , which is located opposite the village, across the valley.

The most direct way to get to Deir al-Qamar is to either take a taxi or rent a car. A roughly 40-50 minute drive from Beirut, Deir al-Qamar can easily be a day trip or an overnight.

5. Beiteddine Palace

The palace, one of Lebanon’s most famous attractions, was built over 30 years (1788-1818) by Emir Bashir Shihab II, Lebanon’s final ruling prince. After changing hands a couple times between the Ottomans and the French during their ruling periods, it was later made into the presidential summer residence following the country’s independence from France in 1943.

It combines Italian and Arabic architecture and makes for a couple hours of fun exploration. The palace also boasts impressive views of the valley. As with many of the historical sites in Lebanon, there is not much explanation offered on-site, so it’s best to hire a guide to gain a better understanding.

Beiteddine is an easy day trip from Beirut and also works well as an overnight or weekend trip combined with Deir Al-Qamar or the Chouf Cedars Reserve.

Beiteddine is about a 40-50 minute drive from Beirut and the easiest way to get there is to drive or take a taxi.

City Sightseeing Lebanon , which runs hop-on, hop-off bus tours in Beirut, also runs day trips to the palace from Beirut, including stops at Deir el Qamar and Shouf Cedars Reserve (more on that below!)

One of Lebanon’s gems and top sites, Byblos (or Jbeil) is an ancient coastal city. With a history that dates back 7,000 years, Byblos is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.

Its old city, hemmed in by a stone wall built during the Crusades, is a UNESCO world heritage site . This is also where the Phoenician’s 22-letter phonetic alphabet was born, the foundation of our modern alphabet.

Byblos’s souk has plenty of places to eat and shop (mostly tourist shops). A wander through the souk can lead you down to the old port to admire the fishing boats and dine seaside.

At Byblos Archeological Site, you can see layers of history that date back to the Phoenicians and span the Greek, Roman and Crusader periods. It’s quite extensive and provides beautiful views of the sea and the coastline.

Byblos is an easy day trip from Beirut and also an ideal weekend or overnight getaway. There are also many beaches next to the port city, making it an easy place to pair with a beach escape.

Byblos is about 45 minutes north of Beirut by car. It can be great to combine with stops at Harrisa and Jeita Grotto along the way for a full day adventure north of Beirut.

Batroun is another coastal city primarily known as a summer resort destination. Just north of Byblos it also boasts a pretty harbour and a picturesque souk in its old city, which is perfect for a wander.

The town also has an ancient Phoenician wall and attractive churches like St. Stephen’s Maronite Cathedral at the old harbour and the Our Lady By the Sea Greek Orthodox Church. Batroun is also known for its citrus trees, and any visit to the old city should include a stop at the famous Hilmi’s Lemonade.

Batroun has a great variety of beaches. Although many of them are rocky, there are some beach resort options with sand beaches if that’s your preference. There are also plenty of places to eat fresh fish and other seafood along the sea, although many outside the city centre may require a short taxi ride. For scuba divers, excursions off the coast are also available.

A short trip 4km inland from Batroun is the Moussalayha Castle, said to date back to the 17 th century, which can make for a fun excursion. Its steep steps wind their way up to the top, rewarding climbers with some great views.

Batroun is about an hour’s drive from Beirut and 15 minutes north of Byblos  along the coastal road.

Farther north along the coast lies Lebanon’s second-largest city, Tripoli. It has a remarkably different feel from Beirut, significantly more Arabic than the capital’s eclectic mix. Tripoli is less touristy than other cities in Lebanon, but it still has quite a bit to offer to visitors.

The Citadel of Raymond de Saint-Gilles (or Qala’at Sanjil), is a fortress that overlooks the old city and a fun place to explore plenty of hidden rooms and corners. The site also houses the Northern Lebanon & Akkar Museum , which gives an interesting historical overview of the region. To make the most of a visit here it would be best to hire a guide at the site.

Nearby, the citadel is the city’s old souk. Wander the labyrinthine passageways, and you can watch artisans working on their respective crafts and shop for anything, from authentic wooden backgammon sets to spices to tasty treats. (Tripoli is well known for its desserts.)

The port area of the city called El Mina is quieter, with many narrow alleyways and streets to explore, many of which are closed to cars. Nearby is a long promenade along the seaside.

During July and August it’s possible to do a half-day trip to the Palm Islands Nature Reserve , a group of 3 small, flat islands with UNESCO protected status due to their delicate and unique flora and fauna.  

85 km north of Beirut, Tripoli is about a 1.5 hour drive from Beirut along the coast.

Connexion Transportation & Tourism offers coach bus trips between Beirut and Tripoli about 7 times daily on weekdays and 3 times per day on Saturdays and Sundays. It is best to check beforehand as their schedule changes from month to month. 

Another city on Lebanon’s coast, about a 45-minute drive south of Beirut, Sidon (or Saida) has a more authentically Arab feel with a fantastic old-style souk to explore.

The arguably biggest attraction, however, is the Crusader Sea Castle (Qalaa al-Bahr), built on top of a Phoenician temple, which dates back to the 13 th century and is actually located offshore, but is connected to land by a stone causeway. A short walk from the castle is the Khan al-Franj , a caravanserai from the 17 th century, impressively restored and open to visitors.

Nearby, the Great Omari Mosque , which was originally a church for the Knights of St. John, has an impressive courtyard and is worth visiting. Sidon’s Soap Museum is also surprisingly interesting journey through the manufacturing process of the product that Sidon was once known for.

South of Beirut along the coastal road, Sidon is about a 45-minute drive from the capital.

Lebanese Transport Co also has coach buses that travel between Beirut and Saida, usually about once per hour.

10. Baalbek Archeological Site

Perhaps less known than other sites in the Middle East, Baalbek (ancient Heliopolis) holds some of the most impressive Roman ruins in the world and they are a must-see for visitors to Lebanon. About two hours northeast from Beirut by car, the ruins of the temples of Baalbek are a treasure trove to behold.

The site itself dates back to the Phoenicians. It was later taken over by the Greeks before it became part of the Roman empire where its structures were built over the course two centuries.    

The Temple of Bacchus is certainly one of the most impressively intact temples you will find anywhere globally. The Temple of Jupiter was once the largest in the Roman Empire, though only six columns remain now.

While Baalbek is located near the Syrian border, in the part of the country where Hezbollah’s presence is strong, it is generally considered a safe place to visit with children and one of the best places to visit in Lebanon. Multilingual guides are readily available for hire at the site entrance, where a small entry fee is payable.

One of Lebanon’s most popular tourist sites, Baalbek can be easily reached by taxi hire or car rental. In addition, many tour operators organize day trips to the site and the surrounding area, such as the city of Zahlé or Anjar, from Beirut.

See some suggested tour operators which can be conveniently booked using Viator

11. qadisha valley.

The Qadisha Valley (Kadisha Valley) is one of the most stunning parts of Lebanon and a must-see for nature lovers and hikers. It is a natural gorge that cleaves the land in half. The valley is dominated by dramatic cliffs, scenic mountains views, and a river that snakes along its floor. There are many hiking opportunities here, and several small companies offer guided tours.

As an area inhabited by early Christians fleeing persecution, there are many monasteries cut into the rocks that can be visited today, along with some grottos, like Notre Dame de Lourdes and Qadisha Grotto. Qadisha was also home to one of Lebanon’s most famous sons, the poet Khalil Gibran whose former home and tomb, also carved into the rock, is now a museum.  

The village of Bcharré sits above the valley and offers splendid views of the valley, with accommodation if you want to make this an overnight. Qadisha is also located near the Cedars of God and the Tannourine Cedar Forest Nature Reserve.

Bcharré is about a 1.5 hour drive from Beirut.

12. Cedar Forests

The cedar tree is Lebanon’s national treasure, woven into the cultural tapestry of the country’s identity. (There’s even a cedar tree on the nation’s flag.)

Unfortunately, these majestic trees, previously abundant in Lebanon and used by the Phoenicians, the Egyptians, the Romans and the Ottomans, have been whittled away over the last century due to resource exploitation and deforestation. Today, a handful of protected reserves remain, but they are a great experience for nature lovers. 

The most well-known reserve is Cedars of God (Arz Al-Rab), just five km from Bcharré, which is home to some of the oldest trees in Lebanon, some dating back nearly 2,000 years. It is a small preserve but with an impressive array of trees and well-marked paths.

The Arz Tannourine Nature Reserve , south of the Qadisha Valley and around 85 km from Beirut, has several hiking trails ranging in length from between 2-4.5 km. While rockier and more demanding than the other preserves, it has some of the largest cedar trees in Lebanon and is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Chouf Cedar Reserve , a protected Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, is Lebanon’s largest nature reserve and extends over three cedar forests (Barouk, Masser Al-Chouf and Ain Zhalta). The Chouf Cedar Society offers different activities like hiking, bird watching, and mountain biking within the reserve. The reserve features trails for all levels, including a specific 300-meter trail for people with physical disabilities.

The most convenient and reliable way to access any of these three reserves is by car. From Bcharré, the Cedars of God can easily be reached by a short drive or taxi ride.

The Arz Tannourine Nature Reserve can be reached by car or taxi from Beirut.

The Chouf Cedar Reserve is about an hour’s drive southeast from Beirut.   

More on Visiting Lebanon

Don’t miss our further family-friendly guides to exploring Lebanon with kids:

• Best of Beirut with Kids
• Review of the Gefinor Rotana – family-friendly hotel apartments in the heart of Beirut

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The Family Travel in the Middle East team of travel writers are all parents based in the Middle East, sharing first hand experiences and reviews from across the region to help you plan your next family adventure.

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8 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Lebanon and Itinerary

Does discovering the most beautiful places in Lebanon as well as an itinerary going along with it sounds like a good plan for you? If so, this post has exactly what you need to plan your trip to this magnificent country.

Lebanon is a beautiful and geographically varied country, with the Mount Lebanon mountain range crossing the country from North to South, the Mediterranean Sea along the West coast offering sumptuous sunsets and exceptional panoramas, vegetation as diverse as it is lush, delicious fruit and vegetables in abundance, and an extraordinary cuisine which delighted our taste buds! And if you like history, you’re in for a treat in Lebanon! There are traces of civilization dating back to age of Antiquity and beyond! For a long time the region belonged to the Phoenician civilization, and was in turn conquered by Assyrians, Babylonians, Egyptians, Persians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Crusaders, Mongols, and Ottomans.

In Lebanon, we met up with our friend Mirella. It was wonderful to see her and to spend quality time with her family!

Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Lebanon

This place left us completely in awe. Baalbek , also known as Heliopolis in Ancient Greece, is an ancient site with gigantic temples dedicated to the god, Baal. The temple of Bacchus is one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman temples. The temple of Jupiter was the Roman Empire’s biggest temple, of which only several columns and a colossal base remain. Smaller than the others, the temple of Venus is the third attraction of the site. Together they form an extremely impressive archaeological ensemble which would make the cities of Athens and Rome blush!

Baalbek – Temple of Bacchus

The Cedars of Barouk

We went to visit the famous cedars of Lebanon in the Chouf, on Mount Barouk. As the national emblem of Lebanon, the cedars are protected today. They once covered a greater part of Lebanese territory. The wood of this tree is reputed to be resistant and rot-proof. It was used by the Phoenicians to build their boats. Later, the king Solomon used it to build his temple in Jerusalem. We unfortunately didn’t have time to go and admire the “Cedars of God” which are found in Bsharri, in the north of the country. But the ones we did see were beautiful, including the one which inspired the cedar on the Lebanese flag, which you can see on the photo below.

Cedar at the Chouf

Sidon, have you heard of it? I imagine so if you’ve read the Bible. It’s mentioned several times, including in the book of Genesis. Jesus is even said to have gone there to preach with his apostles. It is often associated with Tyre, the neighboring town in the south. We visited the maritime fortress, built by the crusaders in the 13 th century, as well as its souk and its soap museum.

Sydon Sea Castle

Beirut, the capital of Lebanon, is a monumental city which contains half of the country’s inhabitants. It’s famous for being one of the most ancient cities in the world. We visited the Raouché (Pigeon Rock), and the American University of Beirut, the most prestigious university in the Middle East and where our friend, Doctor/Professor Mirella, teaches.

American University of Beirut

Beirut Raouche

The sumptuous Beiteddine Palace dates from the 18th century and was the seat of the Emirate of Mount Lebanon. Perched on a cliff in the region of Chouf, it’s a very photogenic place. I obviously had to have a bit of fun taking some cliché snaps.

Beiteddine Palace

Byblos is the birthplace of the Phoenician civilization, and was the 2nd most ancient city in the world after Damas. Traces indicate that Byblos, which was once called Gebal, has been occupied since 8000 BC, in the Neolithic period! The first alphabet, created by the Phoenicians, was devised in Byblos. The Phoenicians exported papyrus from Egypt to Greece, the Greeks decided to name the city Byblos (which means papyrus in Greek). We went on a boat tour around Byblos to admire the sunset.

Port of Byblos

Sunset on Byblos

Jeita and Jounieh

The Jeita Grotto is an enormous system of caves with a multitude of stalactites and stalagmites, including the biggest known stalactite in the world. It’s a Lebanese national symbol, and made it to the 14 finalists in the competition of the 7 new wonders of the world. Yep, the Lebanese are pretty proud of it! I unfortunately don’t have any photos of the interior of the caves, as cameras were forbidden.

Near Jeita, you can find Jounieh , a town by the sea. We took the cable car to go to Harissa and take in the whole bay of Jounieh. It’s a magnificent viewpoint on the Mediterranean and the coast of Lebanon.

Jeita Grotto

Jounieh Bay

For a better preparation

Here are the places we visited :

• Baalbek and its ruins
• Barouk and its cedars
• Jeita and its caves

Impressions

Even though the geopolitical situation in Lebanon is relatively stable, the tension there is palpable. The only country whose official religion is Christianism in the Middle East, Lebanon is at the hear of ideological conflicts, with the Sunnis (Saudi Arabia and co.) on one side and Shias (Iran and co.) on the other, not to mention endless friction with the neighbor to the South (Israel). This is all accentuated by the recent flood of 2 million Syrian refugees, who have joined the existing population of 4 million, not counting the 500,000 Palestinian refugees who have lived there for the last 50 years.

If Lebanon gives the impression of peaceful religious cohabitation, the reality is quite different. In fact, the different religious denominations don’t mix, and keep to their respective neighborhoods and territories. The only possible cohabitation is between Christians and the other religious groups. I can assure you that driving through the Hezbollah district is very impressive. When you see enormous black flags every 20 meters on the side of the motorway you know you’ve entered their territory and you can sense the charged atmosphere. Luckily there are plenty of Lebanese military all around to give a small feeling of security. In other words, it’s a feeling of controlled chaos.

Accommodation and transportation

We spent time in the village of Damour, close to our friend Mirella and her family, who took care of us.  As a change, I didn’t have to think about any of the trip’s activities because Mirella took it into her hands to plan everything! From sunrise, her and her parents made sure we weren’t lacking for anything . They were exceptionally generous. We therefore used Damour as a base for our daily excursions.

Beach at Damour

Mirella found us this hotel just a stone’s throw from her place, and we rented a little Hyundai Grand i10 to get around.

Our hotel and rental car

I do have to slide in a comment regarding driving in this country. I can say that driving in Lebanon is psychologically challenging and I had to make myself drive badly to avoid accidents . If I drove in a western country the way I drove in Lebanon, I would have picked up 10 offenses a minute. To survive, I had to do overtake zig-zags on the motorway, forget the indicators, honk left right and center, jump red lights and stop signs, and take one-way streets in the opposite direction. Just remember that in Lebanon, lane markings are never respected. Emergency stop lanes are used for parking and overtaking, a 2-lane road is used as a 3-lane road, and a 3-lane road as a 5-lane road. So, to avoid having to permanently monitor all of my mirrors, I chose to drive as far left as possible and as fast as possible. Although I think the only offense I didn’t commit was speeding, as there was very little room to do so due to the heavy traffic. As a result, I’m proud to say that I returned the car without a single new scratch. And Mirella, who initially doubted my ability to drive in Lebanon, even had her father congratulate me for being such an excellent driver HAHAHAHAHA!

Lebanese cuisine is honestly one of the best in the world. Not surprising that our kids didn’t ask for McDonalds during our stay in Lebanon. They even found their 3 rd favorite restaurant, after McDonalds and Burger King!

A Lebanese Mezze

After visiting Turkey, we found Lebanon to be relatively expensive. But thinking about it, it’s still pretty cheap. Our expenses for the 8 days were as follows:

• 1278.00 USD;
• 160.00 USD per day;
• 40.00 USD per person per day.

In detail :

In a nutshell

Thanks to Mirella and her family, Lebanon is certainly one of the countries which has excited us the most during this world tour, and it is not without shedding a tear that we left it. And yes, we strongly recommend you to visit this wonderful country, as long as the political situation is relatively stable.

Don’t miss our next destination : the Hellenic Republic !

==> Download all our photos of Lebanon for free!

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5 Amazing Places to Visit in Lebanon

For the compulsive jetsetters among us, there are simply too many incredible places to see and just not enough vacation days. So while traveling abroad might be tempting, especially with the easing of travel restrictions, we cannot help but recommend a few local gems that will stoke your wanderlust and keep the tiny flame of optimism burning.

ROCCA MARINA, CHEKKA

Photo- Rocca Marina

Definitely a beautiful place to visit if you are in the North, especially if you want to take some really cool pictures. The resort has a capacity of 1,500 people, but they are currently only receiving 500 people, even on weekends. With spacious pools, a kid-friendly beach area and plenty of water sports on offer, you’ll think you’re in paradise.

+961 81 714 444 , Facebook

CHÂTEAU KEFRAYA, BEKAA

Photo – Leb in FPV

The scenery alone makes Château Kefraya worthy of your attention. Enjoy the wine tour and learn about Château Kefraya’s wines while soaking up the view of endless vineyards. A tour highlight is seeing the oak barrels in which Château Kefraya produces its 1.5 million bottles worth of wine per year!

+961 8 645 333 , chateaukefraya.com

LA VILLA 1920, BADARO

Photo – La Villa 1920

As soon as you arrive at this new Italian restaurant in Badaro, you’ll be hypnotized by its cool vibe. Filled with plants and colorful flowers, one of the most interesting areas is the bar, so get your phone ready for a few Instagram shots.

+961 3 771 844 , LaVilla1920.com

BEIT TRAD GUESTHOUSE, KFOUR

Photo – Daskara

At Beit Trad, you’ll be welcomed with board games, cards, library and warm smiles. Every little detail has been thought through and every room tells a story. Stay for the weekend and forget your troubles.

+961 70 414 242 , beittrad.com

LITTLE REED, QSAYBE VILLAGE

Photo – Eyes of Lebanon

Located in Qsaybe Village, 30 minutes from Beirut, this family-owned farmhouse offers amazing buffets on Sundays prepared by the women of the village. It’s a fantastic choice for families, as kids can enjoy wandering around the farm and meeting the donkeys, goats, chickens and even peacocks.

+961 76 007 300 , Facebook

Article in collaboration with Aya Diab .

6 Destinations For Your Summer Road Trips

The wine harvest, you may also like, discover the heart of the bekaa valley at..., mini guide to anjar, experience the best of keserwan, 7 caves & grottos that’ll blow your mind, mini guide to anfeh, mini guide to taanayel, lebanon’s soaring wildlife: a guide to birdwatching, 10 hidden destinations in lebanon that you must..., where to brunch in and around beirut, water sports to challenge your inner adrenaline junkie.

Best Places to Visit in Lebanon That Aren’t The Typical Hotspots

What is incredible about Lebanon is its small size that allows you to go from North to South in around 3 hours! And despite it’s small size, there are many amazing places to visit in Lebanon!

The Lebanese coast is only 200km. But also,  Lebanon is incredibly diverse in terms of landscape and community . That even during early Spring, you can go skiing up in the mountains in the morning, then one hour later you can go down to the coast enjoying a relaxing afternoon on the beach.

The best places to visit in Lebanon that aren’t Beirut, Baalbeck or Byblos. Nor Tripoli, Tyre or Tannourine

If you want to avoid the typical list of places to visit in Lebanon , then follow this list of things to do in Lebanon that are often missed by tourists.

1) Faraya: Learn to ski in one hour

A Lebanese village located in Kesrwan district in Mount Lebanon, Faraya is home to the best ski station in Lebanon (beside the Cedars). But what makes Faraya more tempting, is it’s central location only 42km away from Beirut which makes it a perfect place to spend a fun skiing day. There are also chalets for rent nearby for very  affordable prices  to spend a weekend, which will give you a magical winter feeling, that you will even forget you are in a Middle Eastern country. This is where I learned how to ski for the first time. You rent your equipment and an instructor for one hour, then you are ready to hit the slopes 😉

2) Barouk: Eco-tourism in Lebanon

Barouk is a village in the Chouf district (the home of the Lebanese Druze community) just 55 Km South of Beirut. Barouk has the largest natural reserve in Lebanon , Al Chouf Cedar Nature Reserve, an important Eco-tourism area. The reserve has the oldest Cedar trees in the world, in addition to different species of wild mammals, birds and plants. Barouk is very famous for its apples and fruits. This is also where I saw the biggest tomato ever (really huge as shown in the photo). It is grown naturally and served in the village open air restaurants. Definitely one of the places that should figure on the top of your list while visiting Lebanon.

3) Jeitta Grotto: Get lost in the caves

One of the most  fascinating caves  I’ve ever seen in my life, with limestone and colored crystals formed over thousands of years. The lower cave could only be visited by boat, while you can walk through the upper cave and contemplate the different shapes and shades formed naturally. The caves are located in Nahr Al Kalb valley, only 18km North of Beirut.

4) Batroun: The vibrant night life

A coastal city and one of the oldest cities in the world, Batroun is 50km North of Beirut. A beautiful summer resort, but what is more interesting about Batroun is it’s  vibrant night life , with many pubs, clubs and restaurants just by the sea. It’s also a better alternative for Beirut to spend an unforgettable New Year’s Eve.

5) Laqlouq: The wild life

A small mountainous village located 69 Km North of Beirut, reaching Laqlouq is not an easy ride. The road is bumpy, stony and very narrow but you will enjoy one of the most  breathtaking sceneries  all the way up, that will keep on stopping your car just to take some shots. Laqlouq has a very well maintained Ski station during winter. Although not as big as Faraya, but still very enjoyable. In Summer, you can enjoy horseback riding in the middle of the green mountains.

6) Ehden: For the adventurous ones

In the heart of Mount Lebanon Zgharta district, the town of Ehden is 110 km ride from Beirut. The town is known for its numerous cultural activities and festival, specially around Summer. In addition to its high quality restaurants and  exceptional pubs and clubs . But the most interesting feature of Ehden is its adventurous activities. The city offers a variety of adventurous activities all year around, from paragliding to zip lining, snow camping, hiking and more.

7) Bnachii Zgharta: Relax by the lake

Still in Zgharta district and around 80 km from Beirut, Bnachii is a small village nicknamed ‘Little Paris’. The highlight of this  charming little village  is its lake surrounded by mountains, where you can enjoy a day riding a boat or pedalo and tasting some Zgharta specialties, like Kebbeh Zgharteya. Unlike the normal small fried Lebanese Kebbeh, the traditional Zgharta Kebbeh is a huge round shape mixture of bulgur and minced meet and stuffed with solid pieces of fat then grilled. You will need to pierce the ball to release all the fatty ingredients that melt during the grilling process. An extremely heavy meal, but worth a try.

8) Hamat: Our Lady of the Light

A village located atop the Historic cape of Theoprosopon, 48 km North of Beirut and between the ancient cities of Batroun and Tripoli. The village is home to one of the most sacred places in Lebanon, the shrine and monastery of Saydet El Nourieh (Our Lady of Light). It is a popular Christian pilgrimage site, where pilgrims and tourists come to enjoy one of the most  beautiful view of the bay  and the crystal clear water atop the historic bay.

9) Annaya: The Miraculous Saint Charbel

Annaya is located on a hill in Mount Lebanon, 54 km North Beirut in Byblos district. Annaya is mainly visited for the St Maron Monastery belonging to the Lebanese Maronite Order. This where also home to the hermitage of one of Lebanon’s most venerated Saints, Saint Charbel. The hermitage and monastery include a showcasing of Saint Charbel’s life in the hermitage, as well as exhibitions of his belongings and his numerous miracles which include healing paralysis. Saint Charbel’s tomb was reopened many times after his death and on several years, and it is said that his body was remained intact, and his clothes were bearing a blood like liquid.

10) Jezzine: The waterfalls

Located in the South, approximately 40km from Beirut, Jezzine is a charming town surrounded by mountains and pine forests. Considered more of a summer resort, the district highlight is the waterfalls of Jezzine. The area also offers many religious and archeological sites.

11) Hermel: Adrenaline rush in Al Assi River

This would be considered the longest trip from Beirut. Hermel is situated 142 km up North from the Lebanese Capital. If you are into rafting and canoeing, this is the perfect place for you! Enjoy some  adrenaline rush  on Nahr El Assi, with breathtaking scenery.

12) Anjar: The Umayyad Ruins

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Anjar is a town in the Bekaa area, 58 Km from Beirut. The city was built by the Umayyad Caliph Walid I and it’s the only city in Lebanon that has ruins from the Umayyad Dynasty. Nowadays, Anjar inhabitants are mainly from the Armenian community, so you will find many interesting Armenian churches to visit as well.

South African writer and blogger looking for the awesome in travel, food and delicious wine. Collector of passport stamps.

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