Tripoli Lebanon
The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Tripoli, Lebanon
Table of Contents
Places to Visit
Tripoli, the second-largest city in Lebanon, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by tourists. Here are some of the top places to visit:
1. Beit ed-Dine: A stunning palace built in the early 20th century for the famous Emir Bechir Chehab II.
- Address: Beit ed-Dine, Tripoli
- Hours: Tuesday - Thursday (9am-5pm), Friday and Saturday (9am-6pm)
- Admission Fee: Free
2. Maronite Patriarchate: A historic complex that houses the Maronite Patriarch’s residence.
- Address: Saint George Square, Tripoli
- Hours: Tuesday - Thursday (9am-5pm), Friday and Saturday (9am-6pm)
- Admission Fee: Free
3. Tripoli Sea Castle: A medieval fortress built by the Crusaders in the 12th century.
- Address: Tripoli Sea Castle, Tripoli
- Hours: Tuesday - Thursday (9am-5pm), Friday and Saturday (9am-6pm)
- Admission Fee: Free
4. Museum of Fine Arts: A museum featuring a collection of Lebanese and international art.
- Address: Al-Nour Square, Tripoli
- Hours: Tuesday - Thursday (9am-5pm), Friday and Saturday (9am-6pm)
- Admission Fee: Free
5. Tripoli Souks: A bustling marketplace where you can find souvenirs, spices, and traditional Lebanese goods.
- Address: Tripoli Souks, Tripoli
- Hours: Daily (8am-6pm)
Activities
Tripoli offers a wide range of activities for all interests:
1. Shopping: Explore the local markets, souks, and shopping centers to find unique souvenirs and gifts.
2. Water Sports: Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or diving in the Mediterranean Sea at one of the city’s beaches.
- Address: Al-Ahly Beach, Tripoli
- Hours: Daily (8am-6pm)
3. Hiking: Take a hike through the nearby hills and forests for breathtaking views of the city and sea.
- Address: Tripoli Hills, Tripoli
- Hours: Tuesday - Thursday (9am-5pm), Friday and Saturday (9am-6pm)
4. Food Tours: Join a guided tour to discover the local cuisine and try traditional Lebanese dishes.
- Address: Various locations in Tripoli
- Hours: Daily (8am-10pm)
Where to Eat
Tripoli offers a variety of delicious restaurants, cafes, and street food:
1. Karam Al-Sawda: A popular restaurant serving traditional Lebanese cuisine.
- Address: Karam Al-Sawda, Tripoli
- Hours: Daily (8am-10pm)
- Price Range: Moderate ($10-$20)
2. Al-Mina Restaurant: A seafood restaurant offering fresh catches from the Mediterranean Sea.
- Address: Al-Mina Restaurant, Tripoli
- Hours: Daily (8am-10pm)
- Price Range: Moderate ($15-$30)
3. Bakery and Café: A cozy spot for breakfast or brunch, serving freshly baked pastries and coffee.
- Address: Bakery and Café, Tripoli
- Hours: Daily (8am-6pm)
- Price Range: Budget-friendly ($5-$10)
Where to Stay
Tripoli offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hotels to luxury resorts:
1. Al-Madina Hotel: A comfortable hotel located in the heart of the city.
- Address: Al-Madina Hotel, Tripoli
- Hours: Daily (8am-10pm)
- Price Range: Budget-friendly ($20-$50)
2. Tripoli Resort: A luxurious resort offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
- Address: Tripoli Resort, Tripoli
- Hours: Daily (8am-10pm)
- Price Range: Luxury ($100-$200)
Things to Know
Before visiting Tripoli, here are some essential things to know:
1. Language: Arabic is the official language, but many locals speak French and English.
2. Currency: The Lebanese pound (LBP) is the local currency, although US dollars and euros are also widely accepted.
3. Weather: Tripoli experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters.
4. Safety: Tripoli is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Transportation
Getting around Tripoli is relatively easy:
1. Walking: Explore the city on foot to discover hidden gems and local markets.
2. Taxis: Taxis are readily available throughout the city, although prices can be negotiable.
- Address: Various locations in Tripoli
- Hours: Daily (8am-10pm)
3. Public Transportation: Use buses or minibuses to travel between neighborhoods and cities.
- Address: Public transportation hubs, Tripoli
- Hours: Daily (8am-6pm)
Tips and Tricks
Here are some insider tips for your trip to Tripoli:
- Try local street food at a shawarma or falafel stand for an authentic taste experience.
- Visit the souks during peak hours (around noon) for the best shopping deals.
- Learn basic Arabic phrases like ‘merhaba’ (hello), ‘shukraan’ (thank you), and ‘ma’a as-salaama’ (goodbye).
- Don’t miss the sunset views from Al-Ahly Beach or a nearby hilltop for an unforgettable experience.
By following this ultimate guide, you’ll be well-prepared to explore the hidden treasures of Tripoli, Lebanon!