What to do in Lebanon: Ultimate 7-day Itinerary
The best way to travel around Lebanon is to base yourself in Beirut and do day trips from Beirut to each destination. Beirut is well connected with the rest of Lebanon by bus so don’t worry you will be able to get to each destination with plenty of time to explore each place.
We’ve built this itinerary to cover all the important things we think should be seen in Lebanon. If you don’t have 7 days to explore you can easily break it down into fewer days by just picking what is most important for you to see. However, we recommend spending at least 5 days visiting the most essential parts of Lebanon so you won’t get too overwhelmed. You can find at the end of the article a 5-day and 10-day suggested itinerary to help you get inspired.
Day 1: Beirut
Beirut is a lively, cosmopolitan city that has it all. Whatever you enjoy whilst travelling, Beirut will be able to offer you this. From the fascinating museums showing off Lebanon’s vast ancient history to the beautiful luxurious restaurants and bars that Beirut has to offer along the waterfront.
When visiting Beirut you should take a stroll along the waterfront and Zaitunay Bay and enjoy the stunning views surrounding Beirut. As well as visiting the famous romantic spot of the Pigeon Rocks. And don’t forget to visit the memorial and pay respect to the victims of the Beirut explosion 2020.
Day 2: Tripoli
Tripoli is a small city located in the north of Lebanon. Although, this small city is not visited by many tourists this is what makes it such a great place to visit. If you want to see something different from all the ancient ruins Lebanon has to offer, then a trip to Tripoli is perfect for you. Tripoli has something for everyone, from the colourful, medieval souks to the modern day beautiful port town of El Mina, and if you love to escape the crowds of tourists then you will fall in love with this city. And don’t forget to visit Tripoli Citadel which boasts brilliant views over the city.
Day 3: Byblos
Byblos is a small coastal town located 40km north of Beirut. It may be small in size but its history is vast as it is one of the oldest Phoenician cities. It has been inhabited since Neolithic times and bears the ruins of many successive civilisations. Byblos is the best place to make you feel as though you have travelled back in time to the times of the Crusaders or even the ancient Roman times with the number of different archaeological finds you can find here. It is also the best place to enjoy the delicious local Lebanese cuisine whilst watching the bustling life of Byblos in the old souks.
Don’t miss out on seeing:
- Byblos Castle
- Saint John Marc Church
- Old Souks
- Byblos Docks and Fishing Port
Day 4: Baalbek
Baalbek is home to one of the most incredible UNESCO World Heritage you will ever see. A trip to Lebanon is not complete without a visit here. Baalbek is an old city that has been occupied since 10,000 BC so it has plenty of history and ancient sites to keep you busy for the day. The breathtaking view of the valleys and mountains alongside the colossal ancient temple truly makes this an incredible place.
The main ruins in Baalbek include: The Temple of Jupiter, the Temple of Bacchus, and the Temple of Venus.
Day 5: Tyre
Tyre is one of the prettiest places in Lebanon, from the stunningly clear blue sea water and expansive sandy beaches that Tyre has to offer to the most incredibly well-preserved ancient Roman ruins.
Make sure to visit:
- Al-Bass Archaeological Site – you can see the famous eye souring Necropolis and the Hippodrome
- Al-Mina Archaeological Site
Day 6: Sidon
When visiting Sidon you can see the remanence of the trading empire it once was by wandering around the old souks. The bustling streets and maze of alleyways make you feel as though you have been transported back in time. And not to forget the beautiful Sea Castle which dominates Sidon’s promenade.
If you’re interested in learning about how traditional soap is made and buying some souvenirs then take a visit to the Soap Museum.
Day 7: Beirut
Finish your journey back in Beirut. On this day you can explore the rest of Beirut and visit anything you have missed out on seeing or just take the day to relax before your flight back home.
5-day Itinerary:
Day 1: Beirut
Day 2: Baalbek
Day 3: Byblos
Day 4: Tyre
Day 5: Beirut
10-day Itinerary:
Day 1 & 2: Beirut
Day 3: Tripoli
Day 4: Batroun
Day 5: Bsharri & Baatara Gorge Waterfall
Day 6: Byblos
Day 7: Baalbek
Day 8: Tyre
Day 9: Sidon
Day 10: Beirut
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