5-Day Family Adventure: Beirut Shopping and Sightseeing

Beirut, Lebanon

5 days

Nijmeh Square downtown
National Museum
Cloisters of Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral and Mohammad Al-Amim Mosque
City scape
Pigeon Rocks in Raouche

About Beirut, Lebanon

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.

5-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Beirut Central District

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Beirut Central District, known for its beautifully restored Ottoman and French Mandate buildings. Explore the area and enjoy the blend of old and new architecture.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Lebanese lunch in a local restaurant. Try the famous dishes like hummus, tabbouleh, and shawarma.

Afternoon

Visit the National Museum of Beirut, which houses an impressive collection of archaeological artifacts showcasing Lebanon's history.

Dinner

Have dinner in a restaurant offering a panoramic view of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.

Evening

Take a leisurely stroll along the Corniche, a seaside promenade, and enjoy the sunset.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Raouche Rocks, a natural landmark of Beirut. Take a boat ride around the rocks for a closer look.

Lunch

Enjoy a seafood lunch in a restaurant overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

Afternoon

Visit the Verdun area, known for its shopping malls and fashion boutiques. Shop for local and international brands.

Dinner

Have dinner in a restaurant offering a variety of Lebanese and international cuisines.

Evening

Take a walk in the Sanayeh Garden, a public park with beautiful green spaces and playgrounds for children.

Morning

Visit the Jeita Grotto, a stunning natural wonder consisting of two interconnected limestone caves.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local restaurant, trying out traditional Lebanese dishes.

Afternoon

Visit the Byblos Castle, a 12th-century fortress with a rich history. Explore the castle and its museum.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner in a restaurant offering a view of the ancient harbor.

Evening

Take a stroll around the Old Souk, a traditional market with shops selling a variety of goods.

Morning

Visit the Sursock Museum, a modern and contemporary art museum housed in a 19th-century villa.

Lunch

Enjoy a lunch in a restaurant offering a variety of Lebanese and Mediterranean dishes.

Afternoon

Explore the Gemmayzeh and Mar Mikhael neighborhoods, known for their vibrant arts scene and trendy boutiques.

Dinner

Have dinner in a restaurant offering a fusion of Lebanese and international cuisines.

Evening

Take a walk along the St. Nicholas Stairs, a famous landmark connecting the Gemmayzeh and Achrafieh neighborhoods.

Morning

Visit the Pigeon Rocks, a natural landmark of Beirut. Enjoy the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Lunch

Have lunch in a restaurant offering a panoramic view of the sea and the city.

Afternoon

Visit the Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque, a stunning mosque with its blue dome and minarets. Explore the beautiful interiors of the mosque.

Dinner

Enjoy a farewell dinner in a restaurant offering a variety of Lebanese dishes.

Evening

Take a final stroll along the Corniche, enjoying the beautiful views of the city and the sea.

Attractions in Itinerary (14)

Beirut Central District

1
Beirut Central District

The Beirut Central District (BCD) is the name given to Beirut’s historical and geographical core. It is an area thousands of years old, traditionally a focus of business, finance, culture and leisure. Its reconstruction constitutes one of the most ambitious contemporary urban developments.

Attractions
Shopping
Architecture
Neighborhoods
National Museum of Beirut

2
National Museum of Beirut

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

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Corniche

3
Corniche

A seaside promenade in Beirut, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean sea.

Attractions
Landmarks
Raouche Rocks

4
Raouche Rocks

A natural landmark located off the coast of Raouche, in Beirut. It is known for its iconic two rock formations standing like sentinels in the sea.

Attractions
Landmarks
Verdun

5
Verdun

A residential, commercial and administrative area in Beirut. Known for its upscale shopping districts and numerous cafes and restaurants.

Neighborhoods
Shopping
Food and Drink
Sanayeh Garden

6
Sanayeh Garden

A public garden and urban park in Beirut, perfect for relaxation and leisurely walks.

Parks
Gardens
Jeita Grotto

7
Jeita Grotto

A system of two separate, but interconnected, karstic limestone caves spanning over 9 kilometers in length.

Attractions
Landmarks
Byblos Castle

8
Byblos Castle

A 12th-century castle built by the Crusaders in the ancient city of Byblos. It's a significant historical site that offers a glimpse into Lebanon's rich past.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Old Souk

9
Old Souk

A traditional market offering a variety of goods, from spices and textiles to jewelry and antiques.

Attractions
Shopping
Cultural Experiences
Sursock Museum

10
Sursock Museum

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

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Gemmayzeh and Mar Mikhael

11
Gemmayzeh and Mar Mikhael

Gemmayzeh and Mar Mikhael are vibrant neighborhoods known for their trendy bars, cafes, and restaurants. They also offer a glimpse into Beirut's rich history and culture with their old traditional houses and narrow streets.

Neighborhoods
Cultural Experiences
Food and Drink
Entertainment
Shopping
St. Nicholas Stairs

12
St. Nicholas Stairs

The St. Nicholas Stairs, also known as the L'escalier de l'Art, is a massive 500-step staircase in the Gemmayzeh neighborhood. It's a cultural and artistic hub where art exhibitions and concerts frequently take place.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Landmarks
Pigeon Rocks

13
Pigeon Rocks

A natural landmark consisting of two rock formations in the sea, located off the coast of Raouché.

Attractions
Landmarks
Nature
Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque

14
Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque

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

Religious Sites
Architecture

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Manakish

Manakish

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.

Tabbouleh

Tabbouleh

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.

Hummus

Hummus

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.

Falafel

Falafel

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.

Shawarma

Shawarma

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.

Kibbeh

Kibbeh

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.

Kafta

Kafta

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.

Fattoush

Fattoush

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.

Arak

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.

Baklava

Baklava

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.

Moussaka

Moussaka

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.

Labneh

Labneh

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.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Beirut, Lebanon is typically during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to November). During these periods, the weather is pleasant and the city is less crowded. The temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C, making it ideal for sightseeing and exploring the city's rich history, culture, and cuisine. However, if you enjoy water activities and beach time, summer (July and August) could also be a good option, though it can get quite hot.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year

January 6

Sat

Orthodox Christmas

February 9

Fri

St Maron's Day

February 14

Wed

Commemoration of the Assasination of PM Rafic Hariri

March 25

Mon

Feast of the Annunciation

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

April 1

Mon

Easter Monday

April 10

Wed

Eid al-Fitr

April 11

Thu

Eid ul Fitr Holiday

May 1

Wed

Labor Day

May 3

Fri

Orthodox Good Friday

May 5

Sun

Orthodox Easter Day

May 5

Sun

Martyr's Day

May 6

Mon

Orthodox Easter Monday

May 12

Sun

Liberation and Resistance Holiday

June 17

Mon

Eid al-Adha

June 18

Tue

Eid al-Adha Holiday

July 8

Mon

Muharram

July 17

Wed

Ashoura

August 15

Thu

Assumption of Mary

September 16

Mon

The Prophet's Birthday

November 22

Fri

Independence Day

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

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.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency LBP

Time zoneUTC+2

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone112

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type DPower socket type G

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Beirut, Lebanon as a first time visitor

1

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

2

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

3

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

4

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

5

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

6

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

7

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

8

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).

9

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

10

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.

11

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

12

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

13

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

14

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

15

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

16

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

17

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

18

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

19

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

20

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.

Basic Arabic to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

مرحبا

Marhaba

Greeting someone

Goodbye

وداعا

Wadaeaan

Leaving or saying goodbye to someone

Please

من فضلك

Min fadlak

When asking for something

Thank you

شكرا

Shukran

When someone helps you or gives you something

Yes

نعم

Naam

Agreeing with someone or something

No

لا

La

Disagreeing with someone or something

Excuse me

عفوا

Afuwan

Getting someone’s attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

أنا آسف

Ana asef

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟

Hal tatahadath al'injlizia?

Trying to find someone who speaks English

I don't understand

أنا لا أفهم

Ana la afham

When you don’t understand what someone said

Where is the bathroom?

أين الحمام؟

Ayna alhammam?

When you need to use the restroom

How much does this cost?

كم هذا الثمن؟

Kam hadha althaman?

When you want to know the price of something

I would like to order

أود أن أطلب

Uridu an atlub

When ordering food or drinks

Water

ماء

Maa

When you want to order water

Help

مساعدة

Musaeadah

When you need help

Call the police

اتصل بالشرطة

Itasil bilshurtah

In case of an emergency

I am lost

أنا ضائع

Ana daea

When you are lost

Can you help me?

هل يمكنك مساعدتي؟

Hal yumkinuk musaadati?

When you need help

Where is...?

أين هو...؟

Ayna huwa...?

When you are looking for a specific place

Can I use your phone?

هل يمكنني استخدام هاتفك؟

Hal yumkinuni istikhdam hatifik?

When you need to make a phone call

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing for warm weather

  • A light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Swimwear

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Underwear and socks for 5 days

  • Sleepwear

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • Lip balm with SPF

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Travel-sized laundry detergent

  • Personal hygiene items

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or other ID

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash in local currency

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and car rental confirmations

  • Emergency contacts and important addresses

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Universal power adapter

  • Headphones

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Portable power bank

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel guidebook for Beirut

  • Map of Beirut

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Snacks for travel

  • Reusable water bottle

  • First aid kit

  • Travel-sized umbrella

  • Books or e-reader for leisure reading

  • Notebook and pen for journaling

Weather Conditions

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!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

18° / 11°

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

19° / 11°

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

21° / 13°

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

April

24° / 16°

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

May

28° / 19°

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

31° / 22°

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

July

33° / 25°

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

34° / 26°

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

32° / 24°

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

29° / 21°

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

November

25° / 17°

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

December

20° / 13°

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

Did you know?

Did you know that Beirut, the capital city of Lebanon, is one of the oldest cities in the world, with a history dating back more than 5,000 years?

1 of 10

Places near by Beirut, Lebanon

Byblos

Byblos

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

45m
37 km / 23.0 mi
How to get there
Jeita Grotto

Jeita Grotto

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

30m
20 km / 12.4 mi
How to get there
Harissa

Harissa

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

40m
27 km / 16.8 mi
How to get there
Baakline

Baakline

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

1h
45 km / 28.0 mi
How to get there
Zahle

Zahle

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

1h
52 km / 32.3 mi
How to get there
Tyre

Tyre

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

1.5h
83 km / 51.6 mi
How to get there
Tripoli

Tripoli

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

1.5h
85 km / 52.8 mi
How to get there
Anjar

Anjar

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

1.3h
58 km / 36.0 mi
How to get there
Sidon

Sidon

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

45m
41 km / 25.5 mi
How to get there
Baalbek

Baalbek

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

2h
86 km / 53.4 mi
How to get there