· LB

Beirut

Beirut, Beyrouth, Lebanon

Beirut: Where History Dances with Modernity on the Mediterranean Beirut, the captivating capital of Lebanon, is a city that wears its heart on its sleeve. A vibrant tapestry woven from ancient history, modern glamour, an…

#Middle East#Capital city#Mediterranean Sea#Cultural hub#Historic landmarks

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Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Beirut.

Top Hotels in Beirut

Top Flights to Beirut

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Beirut.

Tours

Discover the Historical Gem of Beirut - National Museum of Beirut

Explore fascinating artifacts from Lebanon's ancient past at the National Museum of Beirut. A journey through centuries of history, art, and culture.

Raouché Rocks Adventure - Pigeon Rocks

Visit the iconic natural landmark in the Raouché district. Known for its stunning sunset views and rock formations.

Shopping

Shopping Extravaganza at Beirut Souks

A modern shopping district that blends luxury with heritage. Enjoy a variety of shops, cafes, and entertainment options.

Outdoor

Mediterranean Delight by the Corniche

Stroll or cycle along the popular Beirut Corniche for stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the bustling city life.

Hiking Escapade in the Mountains - Lebanon Mountain Trail

Embark on a hiking adventure through diverse Lebanese landscapes with breathtaking views over the Beirut skyline and beyond.

Location videos

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From travelers

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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Beirut.

Currency

L£ | LBP | Lebanese Pound

Population

2421354.0

Languages

Arabic, Arabic, French, English

Average weather

Beirut

Jan

17°11°

Feb

17°11°

Mar

19°13°

Apr

22°15°

May

25°18°

Jun

28°21°

Jul

30°24°

Aug

31°25°

Sep

29°23°

Oct

27°21°

Nov

23°17°

Dec

19°13°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Beirut.

What people love

Beirut, the capital city of Lebanon, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity that makes it a captivating destination for travelers. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Beirut:

Rich History: Beirut is one of the oldest cities in the world with a history dating back thousands of years. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, historical sites, and museums that showcase the city's diverse past.
Vibrant Culture: Beirut is known for its vibrant arts and cultural scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and music venues to explore. The city also has a lively nightlife with a wide range of bars, clubs, and restaurants offering a taste of Lebanese cuisine and hospitality.
Stunning Architecture: Beirut boasts a mix of architectural styles ranging from ancient Roman ruins to modern skyscrapers. Visitors can admire the city's eclectic buildings, including the iconic Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque and the historical district of Gemmayzeh.
Beautiful Beaches: Beirut is located on the Mediterranean coast, offering visitors access to beautiful beaches where they can relax, swim, and enjoy water sports. The city's beach clubs are popular destinations for both locals and tourists looking to soak up the sun.
Shopping and Dining: Beirut is a shopping paradise with a mix of traditional markets, modern malls, and boutique stores offering a wide range of products. The city is also known for its delicious cuisine, with a variety of restaurants serving authentic Lebanese dishes as well as international fare.
Warm Hospitality: Lebanese people are known for their warm and welcoming nature, making visitors feel at home during their stay in Beirut. The city's hospitality industry is well-developed, with a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference.

Overall, Beirut offers a unique and memorable travel experience with its rich history, vibrant culture, stunning architecture, beautiful beaches, shopping and dining options, and warm hospitality.

What to know

Beirut, the capital city of Lebanon, is a popular tourist destination known for its vibrant culture, history, and cuisine. However, there are some potential cons to traveling to Beirut that visitors should be aware of:

Safety Concerns: Lebanon has experienced periods of political instability, protests, and occasional violence in the past. While Beirut is generally considered safe for tourists, it is advisable to stay updated on the current situation and follow any travel advisories issued by your government.
Traffic Congestion: Beirut is known for its heavy traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. Navigating the city by car can be challenging, and parking can be difficult to find. Public transportation options are limited, so be prepared for potential delays when moving around the city.
Cost of Living: Beirut can be an expensive city to visit, with high prices for accommodation, dining, and entertainment compared to other destinations in the region. Budget travelers may find it challenging to stick to a tight budget while exploring the city.
Language Barrier: While English is widely spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations, the official language in Lebanon is Arabic. Communicating with locals outside of tourist areas may be more challenging if you do not speak Arabic.
Infrastructure Challenges: Lebanon has faced ongoing infrastructure challenges, including occasional power outages and water shortages. Visitors should be prepared for potential disruptions to basic services during their stay.
Cultural Sensitivities: Lebanon is a conservative society in many aspects, and travelers should be respectful of local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and be mindful of cultural norms to avoid inadvertently causing offense.

It is important to note that despite these potential cons, Beirut remains a popular and rewarding destination for many travelers. By taking necessary precautions and staying informed, visitors can enjoy the rich history, hospitality, and beauty that Beirut has to offer.

Beirut, the capital city of Lebanon, has a rich history that spans thousands of years, making it one of the oldest cities in the world. Here is a detailed history of Beirut, highlighting significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Ancient and Classical Periods:

Founding and Early History:
- The area of Beirut has been inhabited since prehistoric times. It was known as "Berytus" during the ancient Phoenician period. Its name is derived from the Canaanite-Phoenician word "Be'erot," meaning wells, due to the abundance of water in the area.
- Around the 14th century BCE, Beirut was mentioned in the Amarna letters as a dependency of the Egyptian empire.
Roman Era:
- In 64 BCE, Beirut became part of the Roman Empire. Under Roman rule, the city flourished and became known for its law school, the Beirut School of Law, which was one of the most prominent centers for legal studies in the Roman world.
- Beirut was rebuilt after a destructive earthquake in 551 CE.

Medieval Period:

Byzantine and Arab Conquests:
- After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, Beirut remained under Byzantine control until the Arab conquests in the 7th century. The city became part of the Umayyad and later the Abbasid caliphates.
- During the Crusades, Beirut was captured by the Crusaders in 1110 and became part of the Kingdom of Jerusalem.

Ottoman Period:

Ottoman Rule:
- Beirut fell under Ottoman control in 1516. During this time, the city grew in importance as a commercial and maritime center.
- The city began to modernize in the 19th century, with European influence increasing in the region.

Modern Era:

French Mandate and Independence:
- After World War I and the collapse of the Ottoman Empire, Beirut became part of the French Mandate of Lebanon.
- Lebanon gained independence in 1943, and Beirut became its vibrant capital, known as the "Paris of the Middle East" due to its cultural and intellectual life.
Lebanese Civil War:
- From 1975 to 1990, Beirut was a central battleground in the Lebanese Civil War. The city suffered significant damage, and its population was deeply affected by the conflict.
Post-war Reconstruction:
- After the civil war, efforts to rebuild and restore Beirut were launched, spearheaded by private sector initiatives like Solidere, a company founded by then-Prime Minister Rafik Hariri.
- Despite reconstruction efforts, Beirut has faced ongoing challenges, including political instability and further conflicts.

Recent History:

2006 Lebanon War:
- In 2006, Beirut was affected by the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, leading to damage in parts of the city.
2019 Protests and Economic Crisis:
- Beirut has been the center of nationwide protests against government corruption and economic mismanagement since 2019, leading to significant political changes.
2020 Beirut Port Explosion:
- On August 4, 2020, a massive explosion at the Port of Beirut caused widespread destruction, killing over 200 people, injuring thousands, and leaving large parts of the city in ruins.

Important Landmarks:

The Corniche: A seaside promenade offering views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Martyrs' Square: A historic square in the heart of Beirut, known for its symbolic importance.
The National Museum of Beirut: Lebanon's principal museum of archaeology.
Hamra Street: A bustling street known for its shops, cafes, and nightlife.
Pigeon Rocks: A natural landmark off the coast of Beirut, popular with both locals and tourists.

Notable Figures:

Rafik Hariri: A former Prime Minister of Lebanon, known for his role in the post-civil war reconstruction of Beirut.
Gibran Khalil Gibran: Although not exclusively linked to Beirut, this renowned Lebanese-American writer and philosopher's works have influenced Lebanese cultural identity.

Beirut's history is marked by resilience and the city's ability to reinvent itself despite numerous challenges. Its rich cultural heritage continues to be a focal point in the region.