Beirut

Beirut’s main attractions are concentrated along the waterfront and in the city center, making them easy to explore on foot or by taxi. Start with the National Museum, head to the seaside in the afternoon, and watch the sunset at Pigeon Rocks in the evening for a smooth itinerary.

• Pigeon Rocks: A natural sea arch and Beirut’s most iconic urban landmark, as well as a popular sunset spot. The silhouette is most striking in the late afternoon backlight. The nearby seaside railing offers great photo opportunities. (1 hour)
• Corniche: A seaside promenade ideal for walking or cycling, bustling in the evening. You can walk all the way to Pigeon Rocks, with cafes and food stalls along the way. (1 hour)
• National Museum: Houses artifacts from the Phoenician, Roman, and Islamic periods. Opening hours vary—check official notices and allow ample time for exploration. (1.5 hours)
• Traditional Quarters: The old town and surrounding café districts offer a glimpse into local life and nightlife. The stone walls lit up at night create great photo backdrops. (2 hours)

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

These outdoor sites are mostly made of stone, which can be scorching in summer and slippery in winter. Wear non-slip shoes and bring sun protection and water. Tickets are sold separately for each site, and visiting early in peak season helps avoid crowds.

• Byblos: One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Explore the ancient harbor and Crusader castle at a leisurely pace. Morning light is soft and perfect for photographing the stone walls and harbor. (Half day)
• Baalbek: A vast complex of Roman temples and Lebanon’s most significant ancient site. The massive stone columns cast strong midday shadows—visit in the early morning or late afternoon for better views. (Half day)
• Tyre: A large complex of Roman and Phoenician ruins by the sea, connected to the old town. You can also visit the port and local markets nearby. (Half day)
• Qadisha Valley: A valley dotted with monasteries and mountain villages, combining natural beauty and religious significance. The serene valley scenery is great for hiking and quiet contemplation. (Half day)

Nature and Mountain Towns

Natural attractions are highly seasonal: Jeita Grotto maintains a constant temperature year-round, making it a great rainy-day or summer escape. The Cedars of God are snowy in winter and cool in summer. Coastal towns and Tripoli’s old city are pleasant year-round.

• Jeita Grotto: An underground world of stalactites and rivers, partly explorable by boat. The cave is cool and flash photography is prohibited—bring a light jacket. (2 hours)
• The Cedars of God: A symbol of Lebanon’s iconic cedar trees, where mountain views meet ancient woodlands. The forest is especially photogenic in the early morning mist. Dress warmly in winter. (2 hours)
• Jounieh: A seaside resort town with a concentration of restaurants and nightlife. The evening sea view paired with city lights makes it great for a relaxing meal. (Half day)
• Tripoli Old Town: A dense area of markets, mosques, and traditional architecture. Visit in the morning when it’s quieter and the light is softer for strolling through the alleys. (Half day)

Itinerary Suggestions and Practical Tips

It’s recommended to spend one day exploring Beirut, combine Byblos, Jeita Grotto, and Jounieh along the coastal route, dedicate another day to Baalbek and Qadisha Valley in the mountains, and allocate a separate day for Sidon or Tyre. Try to minimize backtracking. Most sites are outdoors and require individual tickets—check opening hours in advance. U.S. dollars are widely accepted in cash, and most ticket and parking fees are paid in cash, so carry small denominations. Photography of military facilities, checkpoints, and sensitive areas is prohibited—pay attention to posted signs.