A modern shopping district with a variety of high-end shops, restaurants, and a cinema. It's a great place to experience the vibrant life of Beirut.

Beirut Souks is a major shopping destination in Beirut. Located in the heart of the city, the souks are a modern shopping complex that pays homage to the city's ancient souks. The complex is home to a wide variety of shops, from high-end designer boutiques to local artisan shops. /n The souks are not just a shopping destination; they're also a cultural experience. The complex is designed to reflect the city's history and culture, with its architecture and layout inspired by the ancient souks that once stood in its place. Whether you're a shopaholic or just looking for a unique cultural experience, Beirut Souks is a must-visit when in Beirut.

Beirut Souks is a major shopping destination in Beirut.

A modern and contemporary art museum located in the historic Sursock House.

The Sursock Museum is a must-visit for art lovers. Housed in a stunning 19th-century mansion, the museum is home to an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art. The museum's collection includes works by Lebanese and international artists, offering a diverse range of styles and mediums. /n The museum's architecture is a blend of Lebanese and Italian styles, reflecting the country's colonial past. The museum also hosts a variety of exhibitions, workshops, and events, making it a vibrant cultural hub in Beirut. Whether you're an art enthusiast or just a fan of beautiful architecture, the Sursock Museum is a must-visit when in Beirut.

The Sursock Museum is a hub of art and culture in Beirut.

The main archaeological museum in Lebanon, housing over 100,000 objects and artifacts from prehistory to the Ottoman era.

The National Museum of Beirut is a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts. It houses an extensive collection of over 100,000 artifacts, ranging from prehistoric times to the Ottoman period. The museum's collection is a testament to the rich and diverse history of Lebanon and the many civilizations that have influenced its culture and traditions. /n The museum's architecture is a blend of French and Lebanese styles, reflecting the country's colonial past. The museum underwent a major renovation after the civil war and has since been restored to its former glory. The National Museum of Beirut is not just a museum; it's a journey through time that offers a glimpse into the past of Lebanon.

The National Museum of Beirut is a hub of history and culture.

Verdun Shopping Street is a vibrant shopping district in Beirut, Lebanon. It's known for its wide range of shops, from high-end boutiques to local vendors, making it a paradise for shoppers.

Verdun Shopping Street is one of the most popular shopping districts in Beirut, Lebanon. It's a bustling area filled with a wide range of shops, from high-end boutiques to local vendors. Whether you're looking for designer clothes, unique souvenirs, or delicious local food, you'll find it here. The street is also lined with a variety of restaurants and cafes, making it a great place to take a break and enjoy some local cuisine after a day of shopping. /n In addition to its shopping, Verdun Shopping Street is also known for its vibrant atmosphere. The street is always buzzing with activity, with locals and tourists alike browsing the shops and enjoying the lively street life. The architecture of the area is also a sight to behold, with a mix of modern and traditional Lebanese styles. Whether you're a shopaholic or just enjoy exploring local neighborhoods, Verdun Shopping Street is a must-visit when in Beirut.

A bustling shopping district in Beirut, Verdun Shopping Street is a must-visit for shopaholics.

A Sunni mosque located in downtown Beirut. It is a major landmark and tourist attraction, known for its blue domes and Ottoman-inspired architecture.

The Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Beirut. Built between 2002 and 2007, the mosque is a stunning example of Ottoman architecture, with its four minarets and large blue dome. /n The mosque is not just a place of worship, but also a symbol of Beirut's religious diversity and tolerance. The interior of the mosque is just as impressive as the exterior, with intricate decorations and a large chandelier hanging from the dome. Whether you're a religious person or just a fan of beautiful architecture, the Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque is a must-visit when in Beirut.

The Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque is a stunning religious site in Beirut.

The ruins of ancient Roman baths located in the heart of Beirut.

The Roman Baths in Beirut are a testament to the city's rich history. Discovered during excavations in the 1960s, these ancient baths offer a glimpse into the city's Roman past. The baths were a central part of Roman culture, serving as a place for socializing, relaxation, and cleanliness. /n Today, the Roman Baths are a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and experience a piece of Beirut's history. The site has been well-preserved and includes a garden area where visitors can relax and soak in the historical surroundings. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for a unique attraction, the Roman Baths are a must-visit when in Beirut.

The Roman Baths are a historical attraction in Beirut.

Beirut, the vibrant capital of Lebanon, is a captivating blend of the old and new. Its rich history is evident in the Roman Baths, the National Museum, and the stunning Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque. The city's cosmopolitan side shines through its bustling nightlife, world-class restaurants, and fashion-forward shopping districts like Hamra Street. Beirut's Mediterranean coastline offers beautiful beaches for relaxation, while the nearby mountains provide hiking opportunities. The city's diverse culture is reflected in its food, with a mix of Middle Eastern, French, and Armenian cuisines. Despite its tumultuous past, Beirut's resilient spirit and warm hospitality make it a must-visit destination.

Beirut Souks

Sursock Museum

Start your day at the Beirut Souks, a major commercial district in Beirut Central District. With over 200 shops and a department store, it's a great place to indulge in some retail therapy.

Enjoy a traditional Lebanese lunch at a local eatery in the vibrant neighborhood of Gemmayzeh, known for its historic buildings and bustling food scene.

After lunch, head to the Sursock Museum, a modern and contemporary art museum in Beirut. It's housed in a beautiful 19th-century villa with a collection that spans over 800 artworks and 5,000 library books.

Have dinner at a local restaurant in Mar Mikhael, a trendy area known for its vibrant nightlife and food scene. Try some Lebanese wine to accompany your meal.

Spend the evening exploring the nightlife in Mar Mikhael. The area is known for its hip bars and clubs, where you can enjoy live music and DJ sets.

Exploring Beirut Central District, Gemmayzeh, and Mar Mikhael

National Museum of Beirut

Verdun Shopping Street

Begin your day with a visit to the National Museum of Beirut, which houses an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits from prehistoric times to the Ottoman period.

Have lunch at a local restaurant in Hamra, a neighborhood known for its diverse food scene and bustling shopping streets.

Spend the afternoon shopping at the Verdun Shopping Street, one of the most popular shopping areas in Beirut. It's home to a mix of local and international brands.

Enjoy dinner at a local eatery in Badaro, a vibrant neighborhood known for its trendy restaurants and bars.

Experience the nightlife in Badaro, where you can find a variety of bars and clubs offering live music and a lively atmosphere.

Discovering Mathaf, Hamra, Verdun, and Badaro

Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque

Roman Baths

Start your day with a visit to the Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque, a stunning mosque located in the heart of Beirut. Its blue dome and minarets are a landmark of the city.

Have lunch at a local restaurant in the Beirut Central District, a vibrant area known for its diverse food scene and bustling shopping streets.

Spend the afternoon exploring the Roman Baths, a historical site in Beirut. These ancient baths were discovered in 1968-1969 and offer a glimpse into the city's past.

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in the trendy neighborhood of Ashrafieh, known for its vibrant food scene and nightlife.

End your trip with a visit to the Skyline Rooftop Lounge, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Enjoy the stunning views of the city while sipping on a cocktail.

Visiting Beirut Central District and Ashrafieh

Daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March, ends last Sunday in October

UTC+2

Renting a car is a popular way to get around Beirut. There are numerous car rental companies available at the airport and throughout the city. It's a good option if you're comfortable with driving in a foreign country and want the freedom to explore at your own pace. However, traffic in Beirut can be heavy and parking can be difficult in some areas.

Taxis are widely available in Beirut. You can hail a taxi on the street, or book one through a hotel or restaurant. Some taxis use meters, while others negotiate a fare before the journey. It's advisable to agree on a fare before getting in to avoid any misunderstandings.

Service Taxis, also known as 'servees', are a common form of public transportation in Beirut. They are shared taxis that run along specific routes. You can hop on and off anywhere along the route. It's a cheap and efficient way to get around, but can be a bit confusing if you're not familiar with the system.

There are public buses in Beirut, but they are not very reliable or comfortable. The routes can be confusing and there's no set timetable. However, they are cheap and can be a good way to get around if you're on a tight budget.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Careem are available in Beirut. They are a convenient and affordable way to get around the city. You can book a ride using the app on your smartphone, and the fare is automatically charged to your credit card. It's a good option if you want a safe and reliable transportation method.

Bicycling is becoming more popular in Beirut, especially in the city center where there are dedicated bike lanes. It's a cheap and eco-friendly way to get around. However, traffic can be heavy and not all areas are bike-friendly.

Walking is a great way to explore Beirut, especially the downtown area which is pedestrian-friendly. Many of the city's attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, be aware that pedestrian crossings are not always respected by drivers.

There are boat tours available that take you around the coastline of Beirut. It's a unique way to see the city and enjoy the beautiful Mediterranean Sea. However, this is more of a leisure activity than a practical transportation method.

A popular Lebanese breakfast dish, Manakish is a flatbread topped with za'atar, cheese, or ground meat. It's often compared to pizza and is a staple in Beirut.

Manakish

Tabbouleh is a refreshing salad made from finely chopped parsley, tomatoes, mint, onion, bulgur, and seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. It's a common dish in Beirut and throughout Lebanon.

Tabbouleh

Hummus is a creamy dip made from mashed chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. It's a staple in Lebanese cuisine and is often served with warm pita bread in Beirut.

Hummus

Falafel is a deep-fried ball or patty made from ground chickpeas, fava beans, or both. It's a popular street food in Beirut and is often served in a pita with salad, pickles, and tahini sauce.

Falafel

Shawarma is a popular street food in Beirut. It's made by stacking slices of marinated meat (usually chicken or beef) on a vertical spit and then carving it off in thin slices.

Shawarma

Kibbeh is a classic Lebanese dish made of bulgur (cracked wheat), minced onions, and finely ground lean beef, lamb, goat, or camel meat. It's a popular dish in Beirut and can be served raw, baked, fried, or grilled.

Kibbeh

Kafta is a type of Lebanese kebab made from minced meat (usually beef or lamb), onions, and various spices. It's a common dish in Beirut and is often grilled and served with bread and salad.

Kafta

Fattoush is a Lebanese salad made from toasted or fried pieces of pita bread combined with mixed greens and other vegetables. It's a popular dish in Beirut and is known for its tangy dressing made from lemon juice and sumac.

Fattoush

Arak is a traditional Lebanese alcoholic beverage. It's a clear, colorless, unsweetened anise-flavored distilled alcoholic drink, often served with meze. It's a popular drink in Beirut and is often mixed with water and served over ice.

Arak

Baklava is a sweet dessert pastry made of layers of filo filled with chopped nuts and sweetened and held together with syrup or honey. It's a popular dessert in Beirut and throughout Lebanon.

Baklava

Moussaka is a layered dish made with eggplant, tomato, and chickpeas, spiced with coriander and topped with a thick béchamel sauce. It's a popular dish in Beirut and is often served hot or cold.

Moussaka

Labneh is a Lebanese cream cheese made from strained yogurt. It's a popular appetizer in Beirut and is often served with olive oil and fresh herbs, and eaten with pita bread.

Labneh

New Year

Orthodox Christmas

St Maron's Day

Commemoration of the Assasination of PM Rafic Hariri

Feast of the Annunciation

Good Friday

Easter Monday

Orthodox Good Friday

Orthodox Easter Day

Orthodox Easter Monday

Eid al-Fitr

Eid ul Fitr Holiday

Labor Day

Martyr's Day

Liberation and Resistance Holiday

Eid al-Adha

Eid al-Adha Holiday

Muharram

Ashoura

Ashoura Holiday

National Day of Mourning

Assumption of Mary

The Prophet's Birthday

Independence Day

Christmas Day

One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, known for its ancient ruins and beautiful old souk.

Byblos

A system of two separate, but interconnected, karstic limestone caves spanning an overall length of nearly 9 kilometers.

Jeita Grotto

Home to the statue of Our Lady of Lebanon, offering panoramic views of the bay of Jounieh.

Harissa

Known for its beautiful natural scenery, including the Baakline River and Waterfall.

Baakline

Famous for its traditional Lebanese architecture, vineyards and the Berdawni River.

Zahle

An ancient Phoenician city with a number of historical sites, including the Tyre Hippodrome.

Tyre

Lebanon's second largest city, known for its Mamluk-era architecture.

Tripoli

Home to the ruins of an Umayyad palace-city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Anjar

A city rich in history with attractions like the Sea Castle and the Old Souk.

Sidon

Known for its Roman ruins, particularly the Temple of Bacchus, one of the best preserved Roman temples in the world.

Baalbek

Cloisters of Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral and Mohammad Al-Amim Mosque

Saint George Bay also known as Zaitunay Bay

St. George Maronite Cathedral, the Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque and the Garden of Forgiveness

Lebanon's official language is Arabic, but English and French are widely spoken.

The currency in Lebanon is the Lebanese pound (LBP), but US dollars are also widely accepted.

Credit cards are accepted in most places in Beirut, but it's always good to have some cash on hand.

Lebanon operates on Eastern European Time (EET) and observes daylight saving time.

Beirut is generally safe for tourists, but it's always wise to stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Public transportation in Beirut includes buses, taxis, and 'service' taxis, which are shared rides.

Tipping is customary in Beirut. It's usual to tip around 10-15% in restaurants and cafes.

Lebanon has a Mediterranean climate. Summers (June to September) can be hot and humid with temperatures ranging from 77°F to 95°F (25°C to 35°C), while winters (December to March) are mild and rainy with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 64°F (10°C to 18°C).

Lebanese cuisine is a must-try. It includes dishes like hummus, tabbouleh, and shawarma.

Beirut is a city that never sleeps. It's known for its vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants open until the early hours.

Beirut has a mix of modern and traditional architecture. It's common to see ancient ruins next to modern skyscrapers.

Lebanon is a religiously diverse country. Respect for all religions is important, and modest dress is recommended when visiting religious sites.

Lebanon has a 220V power supply, and the plug type is C and D. You may need a voltage converter or plug adapter.

Smoking is very common in Lebanon, and many indoor places do not have non-smoking areas.

Beirut's tap water is not safe to drink. It's recommended to drink bottled water.

Lebanon has a high standard of healthcare, and there are many pharmacies in Beirut.

Beirut is a bustling city with heavy traffic. Be careful when crossing the road.

Lebanon has a rich cultural history. Learning a bit about it before your trip can enhance your experience.

Beirut is located on the Mediterranean Sea, so it's a great place for beach activities during the summer.

Lebanon has a high mobile penetration rate. Free Wi-Fi is available in many places, but it's also easy to buy a local SIM card.

January is the coldest month in Beirut, with occasional rainfall. It's a good time for indoor activities and exploring the city's rich history.

February is still quite cool, with a slight increase in temperature. It's a good time to visit museums and enjoy the local cuisine.

March sees a noticeable warming trend, with more sunny days. This is a great time to start exploring outdoor attractions.

April is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures. It's a perfect time for sightseeing and enjoying the beautiful beaches.

May is the start of the summer season, with warm temperatures and lots of sunshine. It's a great time for beach activities and water sports.

June is quite hot, with long sunny days. This is the perfect time for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying outdoor festivals.

July is the hottest month in Beirut, with high humidity. It's a great time for beach activities, but be sure to stay hydrated.

August is equally hot, with high temperatures and humidity. It's a good time for water activities, but avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the day.

September sees a slight decrease in temperature, but it's still quite warm. It's a good time for outdoor activities and exploring the city's nightlife.

October is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures. It's a perfect time for sightseeing and enjoying the beautiful autumn scenery.

November sees a noticeable cooling trend, with more rainy days. This is a great time to start exploring indoor attractions.

December is quite cool, with a slight increase in rainfall. It's a good time to visit museums and enjoy the local cuisine.

Beirut, the capital city of Lebanon, experiences a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and cool, rainy winters. 

If you're planning a trip to Beirut, it's essential to consider the time of year and the weather conditions. 

During the summer months (June to September), temperatures in Beirut can reach up to 86°F (30°C), with high humidity levels. It's advisable to pack lightweight, breathable clothing, sunblock, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Also, remember to stay hydrated, especially if you're planning to do a lot of sightseeing.

The winter months (December to March) in Beirut are generally mild but can be quite rainy. Temperatures can range from 50°F to 64°F (10°C to 18°C). It's recommended to pack a waterproof jacket or umbrella, along with warmer clothing for the cooler evenings. 

The transitional seasons of spring (April and May) and autumn (October and November) are often considered the best times to visit Beirut. The weather is typically mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 64°F to 77°F (18°C to 25°C). These seasons are perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city's historical sites.

Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast for Beirut before your trip. This will help you pack appropriately and plan your activities. 

Remember, the weather can change quickly, so it's always a good idea to be prepared for different conditions. Enjoy your visit to Beirut!

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3-Day Local Experience: Beirut Nightlife and Shopping Extravaganza

About Beirut, Lebanon