Tripoli, Lebanon-4-day-itinerary

Tripoli, Lebanon: A 4-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore the Ancient City Walls and Harbor

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Start your day at the ancient city walls and gates, a testament to Tripoli’s rich history. The walls date back to the Crusader era.
  • 10:00 AM: Visit the Ottoman-era Mosque of al-Omari (15th century), one of the oldest and most historic mosques in Lebanon.

Lunch

  • Head to Al-Bustan Restaurant for a traditional Lebanese lunch. Try their famous tabbouleh salad.

Afternoon

  • 1:30 PM: Explore the bustling souks (markets) of Tripoli, filled with local handicrafts and spices.
  • 3:00 PM: Visit the Citadel of Raymond de Saint-Gilles, offering stunning views of the city.

Evening

  • Enjoy a traditional Lebanese dinner at Al-Fanar Restaurant, known for its seafood dishes.
  • For dessert, try the famous Tripolitan pastries at Zahra Bakery.

Day 2: History and Culture

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Museum of Islamic Art, which houses an impressive collection of Islamic artifacts from around the world.
  • 11:30 AM: Stop by the Maronite Patriarchate, a significant religious site in Lebanon.

Lunch

  • Try some local street food at Tripoli’s Food Court, offering a variety of Lebanese dishes at affordable prices.

Afternoon

  • 2:00 PM: Visit the French Mandate-era Palace of the Emir Abdo, now housing the Tripoli Museum.
  • 4:00 PM: Explore the scenic coastal path that runs along the Corniche, perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride.

Evening

  • For dinner, head to La Mer, a waterfront restaurant offering a mix of Lebanese and international cuisine.
  • Enjoy live music at The Tripoli Jazz Club, a popular spot among locals and tourists alike.

Day 3: Beaches and Relaxation

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Spend the morning at one of Tripoli’s beautiful beaches, such as Al-Basateen or Al-Hamra.
  • 12:30 PM: Enjoy a seafood lunch at The Fisherman’s Restaurant, located near the beach.

Afternoon

  • 2:00 PM: Visit the Al-Sayyedah Fatima Shrine, a significant pilgrimage site for Muslims.
  • 4:00 PM: Take some time to relax and enjoy the scenic views from one of Tripoli’s many parks or gardens.

Evening

  • For dinner, try Al-Mashhour, a restaurant serving traditional Lebanese cuisine with a modern twist.
  • Explore the vibrant nightlife at Tripoli’s Night Clubs, featuring a variety of music styles and genres.

Day 4: Local Markets and Departure

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Al-Kharrabeh Souks, one of the largest and most historic markets in Tripoli.
  • 11:30 AM: Stop by the local handicraft market for some unique souvenirs.

Lunch

  • Have a traditional Lebanese lunch at Al-Bustan Restaurant, again offering a chance to try their famous tabbouleh salad.

Departure

  • Spend the afternoon shopping for last-minute souvenirs or relaxing in your hotel before departing.
  • Make sure to check out of your hotel and depart from Tripoli by [insert time].

Transportation

  • Tripoli is well-connected to Beirut by bus. Companies like Omnibus Libanais and Ebl2 operate daily services between the two cities.
  • Taxis are readily available throughout the city, while ride-hailing apps like Careem and Uber also operate in Tripoli.

Tips

  • Learn a few basic Arabic phrases to enhance your interaction with locals. “Shukraan” (thank you) and “As-salamu alaykum” (peace be upon you) are good starting points.
  • Be prepared for crowds and noise in the souks and markets, especially during peak hours.
  • Don’t drink tap water, and consider purchasing bottled or filtered water throughout your stay.

Other Things to Know

  • The best time to visit Tripoli is from March to May or September to November, when temperatures are mild and comfortable.
  • Dress modestly when visiting mosques or other religious sites.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially during Ramadan.

Enjoy your trip to Tripoli, Lebanon!