Lebanon 7 Day Itinerary

Lebanon Travel Itinerary (7 Days)

Day 1: Arrival in Beirut and Exploration

  • Arrival: Arrive at Rafik Hariri International Airport (BEY). Visa on arrival is available for most nationalities, including Americans.
  • Morning:
    • Start your day with a visit to the Beirut Souks, a historic market place turned shopping complex. It’s a great place to buy traditional Lebanese goods and souvenirs.
    • Next, head to Place de l’Etoile (Star Square) in downtown Beirut for panoramic views of the city from the Monument du Centenaire.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of Beirut’s restaurants, like Apéro or Le Comptoir, known for their traditional Lebanese cuisine and live music.

Day 2: Ancient Ruins and Coastal Scenery

  • Morning:
    • Visit the ancient city of Byblos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its narrow streets and see the Crusader-era Castle, St. John Marcian Church, and the Roman Theater.
    • Stop by the nearby Jeita Grotto, a natural limestone cave that features an impressive stalactite and stalagmite collection.
  • Afternoon:
    • Head to the coastal town of Jounieh, famous for its Moussa Castle. This bizarre, handmade castle is a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of one man’s dream.
  • Evening: Return to Beirut and enjoy your dinner at a seaside restaurant like Makassed or Marina Sur Mer, known for their seafood dishes.

Day 3: Cedars of Lebanon

  • Morning:
    • Visit the ancient site of Qadisha Valley, home to some of the oldest Christian monasteries and the stunning views of the Cedars of God (Ain Qadisha).
    • Stop by a local shop in Kfardebian, where you can buy traditional cedar wood products.
  • Afternoon:
    • Explore the Faqra Waterfalls, located at the end of the Lebanese Mountain range. These waterfalls offer breathtaking views and are perfect for nature lovers.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at a restaurant near Faqra, like Hajjat Restaurant, known for its traditional dishes.

Day 4: The Bekaa Valley

  • Morning:
    • Visit the ancient city of Baalbek, home to some of the world’s largest and best-preserved Roman temples, including the Temple of Jupiter.
    • Explore the nearby Hajret en-Nasr temple.
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit a local winery in the Bekaa Valley, such as Kefraya Winery or Château Musar, to taste some of Lebanon’s finest wines.
    • Enjoy lunch at a vineyard restaurant or cafe.
  • Evening: Head back to Beirut and enjoy your dinner at a restaurant like Liza’s Bistro, known for its contemporary Lebanese cuisine.

Day 5: Cedars, Nature, and Culture

  • Morning:
    • Visit the Cedars of God (Ain Qadisha) again, this time to explore the monastery and learn about its history.
    • Stop by a local shop in Kfardebian to buy some traditional cedar wood products.
  • Afternoon:
    • Explore the Dahr el-Baidar, one of Lebanon’s most beautiful natural sites. It features pine trees and offers breathtaking views.
    • Visit the Château de Qubeitara, a castle built in 1800, and explore its gardens.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at a restaurant like Renaissance Cafe, known for its traditional Lebanese dishes.

Day 6: Tyre and Sidon

  • Morning:
    • Visit the ancient city of Tyre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the ruins, including the Hippo Stadium and the Temple of Melqart.
    • Stop by the nearby Al-Basatin Cemetery, one of Lebanon’s oldest cemeteries and the final resting place for many Lebanese leaders.
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the ancient city of Sidon, also known as Saida. Explore its historic center, visit the Crusader-era Castle, and see the old harbor.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at a restaurant like L’Amuse, known for its Mediterranean dishes.

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning:
    • Spend your last morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring one of Beirut’s markets.
    • Depart for Rafik Hariri International Airport (BEY) for your flight back home.

Things to Know

  • Language: Arabic is the official language, but English and French are widely spoken in tourist areas.
  • Currency: Lebanese Pound (LBP). Credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas.
  • Safety: Lebanon is generally a safe country. Take normal precautions against pickpocketing and petty theft.
  • Weather: Lebanon’s climate varies from Mediterranean to mountainous, with hot summers and mild winters.

Tips

  • Learn some basic Arabic phrases like “Shukraan” (thank you) or “Marhaba” (hello).
  • Bargain when shopping at markets.
  • Enjoy the Lebanese hospitality and warm people.

Transportation

  • Taxis are widely available. Make sure to agree on a price before starting your journey.
  • Renting a car is also an option, but driving in Lebanon can be challenging due to heavy traffic and poor road conditions.

Have a safe and enjoyable trip!