I fell in love with Lebanon the moment I arrived. This tiny country hits you with everything at once – ancient Roman ruins next to glitzy beach clubs, snow-capped mountains overlooking the Mediterranean, and some of the best food I’ve ever tasted. The energy here is electric, and the Lebanese know how to live life to the fullest.
Let me share the most beautiful places to visit in Lebanon that took my breath away. From the towering cedars of the Chouf mountains to the bustling souks of Byblos where history comes alive, these 12 spots capture the magic of this incredible Mediterranean gem. Wait until you see the sunset from the ruins of Baalbek – it’ll change your life!
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👉 My Favorite Tour in Lebanon
#1 tip to save money on your trip to Lebanon
Let’s first cover some quick tips that will save you time and money on your Lebanese adventure.
- FLYING: If you haven’t already, I HIGHLY recommend signing up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going). I’ve seen flights to Beirut for just $370 roundtrip thanks to their email alerts. The premium and elite version are even better!
- Food: Save by eating at local manoushe spots and small restaurants where a filling meal costs 50,000-100,000 pounds ($3-6). Markets like Souk el Tayeb offer fresh produce and local specialties. Street vendors sell delicious kaak and falafel sandwiches.
- Transport: Use service taxis (shared taxis that run set routes) and local buses – they cost around 25,000-30,000 pounds per trip (under $2). Look for buses with red plates for official routes. For intercity travel, minibuses run between major cities like Beirut, Tripoli, and Byblos. Using local transport saves hundreds of thousands of pounds per trip.
Lebanon can be surprisingly expensive, especially in Beirut’s trendy neighborhoods. But if you follow the strategies above, you can explore this fascinating country for much less. Now, without further ado, let’s jump into the best places to visit in Lebanon:
1. Baalbek
- 📍 Location: Baalbek, Beqaa Valley
- 🏆 Best For: Ancient ruins 🏛️, history fans 📚, cultural explorers 🧳
- 📸 Top Experiences: Touring the Temple of Jupiter, exploring the Temple of Bacchus, watching sunset over the Roman ruins
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June for mild weather and fewer crowds 🌿
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Kanaan Group Hotel – Good‑value rooms with garden terrace and on‑site restaurant
Baalbek is one of those places that feels almost too surreal. Tucked deep in the Beqaa Valley, this ancient city holds some of the most impressive Roman ruins outside of Italy. The massive columns of the Temple of Jupiter tower overhead, while the Temple of Bacchus feels like stepping into a lost world. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to read up on mythology just to appreciate it more.
What really makes Baalbek special is the feeling of quiet awe. You’re walking on stones that have seen thousands of years pass. It’s especially magical around sunset, when golden light hits the ruins and everything looks timeless.
If you’re even a little into history or archaeology, Baalbek should be non-negotiable. It’s more than a photo op, it’s also one of the most powerful travel experiences in Lebanon.
2. Bcharré
- 📍 Location: Bcharré, Northern Lebanon
- 🏆 Best For: Poetic souls ✒️, hikers 🥾, winter adventurers 🎿
- 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting the Gibran Museum, hiking Qadisha Valley, skiing at Cedars of God
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October for hiking and sightseeing in cool weather 🌤️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel L’Aiglon – Cozy alpine-style lodge near Cedars Ski Resort
Nestled high in the northern mountains, Bcharré is a peaceful town that blends nature with soul. It’s the birthplace of poet Kahlil Gibran, and you can feel that creative energy as soon as you arrive. His museum, located in a former monastery, is filled with sketches, manuscripts, and personal items that give you a closer look into his world.
Just beyond the town, the Qadisha Valley stretches out with its dramatic cliffs and ancient monasteries. It’s a great spot for long hikes or quiet moments with massive views. In winter, snow blankets the area and the Cedars of God becomes a small but scenic ski escape.
Even if you’re not chasing snow or poetry, Bcharré has a calming energy that’s hard to explain. Between the fresh air and historic roots, it’s one of those places that sticks with you long after you leave.
3. Beirut
- 📍 Location: Beirut, Central Lebanon
- 🏆 Best For: Nightlife lovers 🎶, foodies 🍴, culture seekers 🏙️
- 📸 Top Experiences: Walking the Corniche, exploring Gemmayzeh, eating mezze at local spots
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May for pleasant weather and lively city events 🌸
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Albergo Hotel – Elegant boutique stay in a historic mansion
Beirut is fast-paced, chaotic, and completely captivating. The city doesn’t hold back as every street corner is packed with history, color, and personality. You can spend one minute walking past ancient ruins and the next inside a sleek café filled with locals debating politics over espresso.
The city’s food scene is unmatched. From hole-in-the-wall shawarma joints to rooftop restaurants with sea views, Beirut knows how to eat well. Neighborhoods like Gemmayzeh and Mar Mikhael are filled with art galleries, cool bars, and independent boutiques.
Even with its past struggles, Beirut’s energy is infectious. It’s not polished or predictable, but that’s part of the appeal. It’s a city that’s always changing yet always itself. Whether you’re watching the waves crash along the Corniche or dancing till sunrise, Beirut is the kind of place that leaves an impression. You don’t just visit, you feel and experience it.
4. Beiteddine
- 📍 Location: Beiteddine, Chouf Mountains
- 🏆 Best For: Architecture buffs 🏛️, history fans 📚, cultural travelers 🎭
- 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring Beiteddine Palace, attending the summer festival, relaxing in palace gardens
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to September for sunny weather and festival season 🎶
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Deir al Oumara – Restored historic inn with courtyard views and local charm
Beiteddine feels like a step into Lebanon’s royal past. At the heart of this quiet mountain village is Beiteddine Palace, an architectural masterpiece built in the early 1800s. The intricate mosaics, massive courtyards, and ornate woodwork show off the craftsmanship of a different era. It’s the kind of place where even the smallest details feel intentional.
During the summer, the palace transforms into a stage for the Beiteddine Festival. International performers, orchestras, and dance groups perform under the stars, blending history and modern culture in a way that’s genuinely special. It’s one of Lebanon’s most iconic cultural events.
Aside from the palace, the village has a peaceful vibe. You’ll find terraced gardens, old stone homes, and small cafés perfect for a slow afternoon. Beiteddine is ideal for travelers who want to dive into Lebanon’s artistic and historical side without the crowds of the bigger cities.
5. Byblos
- 📍 Location: Byblos, Mount Lebanon Governorate
- 🏆 Best For: History nerds 🏺, seaside wanderers 🌊, market lovers 🛍️
- 📸 Top Experiences: Touring Byblos Castle, exploring the old souk, dining along the harbor
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June for comfortable weather and fewer tourists 🌼
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Monoberge Hotel – Clean and central stay near the old town and harbor
Byblos is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, but it still knows how to keep things fresh. The ancient ruins here are wild—Byblos Castle, old temples, and crumbling city walls that have seen civilizations rise and fall. Even if you’re not a history buff, you’ll find yourself drawn into the stories this place tells.
Beyond the ruins, the city has a relaxed coastal vibe. The old souk is packed with handcrafted goods, cozy wine bars, and street musicians that bring the area to life. Just steps away, the harbor offers fresh seafood and perfect sunset views over the Mediterranean.
Byblos balances the past and present like few other places. One minute you’re exploring an ancient necropolis, and the next you’re sipping espresso by the sea. It’s effortlessly cool and definitely worth spending more than just a day.
6. Cedars of God
- 📍 Location: Bsharri District, Northern Lebanon
- 🏆 Best For: Nature lovers 🌲, photographers 📷, peaceful travelers 🧘
- 📸 Top Experiences: Walking the forest trail, visiting the cedar museum, snowshoeing in winter
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to September for clear trails and lush surroundings 🌳
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Le Cedrus Hotel – Mountain lodge near the forest with cozy rooms and great views
The Cedars of God is one of Lebanon’s most iconic natural landmarks. These ancient trees have stood for thousands of years and are even mentioned in the Bible. The forest, although small, feels sacred. Each cedar seems to carry its own quiet strength, rising from the rocky ground with twisted trunks and deep roots.
Walking the short loop through the trees is peaceful and grounding. The cool mountain air, the scent of cedarwood, and the sound of wind in the branches create a vibe you won’t forget. There’s also a small museum nearby that explains the history and symbolism of the trees.
In winter, the whole area transforms into a snowy wonderland. Visitors come to hike or snowshoe under snow-dusted branches. Whether you come for a quiet walk or a winter escape, the Cedars of God offers a special connection to Lebanon’s land and legacy.
- Read next: Amazing UNESCO World Heritage Sites
7. Chateau Ksara
- 📍 Location: Zahle, Bekaa Valley
- 🏆 Best For: Wine enthusiasts 🍷, history lovers 🏺, slow travelers 🧳
- 📸 Top Experiences: Touring the wine caves, joining a tasting session, walking the vineyards
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: September to November during harvest season for wine tours 🍇
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel St Jean – Comfortable hotel in Zahle near vineyards and restaurants
Chateau Ksara is Lebanon’s oldest winery and a must-visit for anyone interested in wine or history. The estate dates back to 1857, when Jesuit monks began using Roman-era caves to age wine. Today, you can tour those same underground cellars, where barrels line stone walls beneath layers of history.
The vineyard itself is stunning, especially during harvest season. Rows of grapevines stretch across the Bekaa Valley, surrounded by mountain views and crisp air. Guided tours walk you through the process from grape to bottle, and the tasting room lets you try everything from light whites to bold reds.
Ksara isn’t just about wine, it’s about tradition, technique, and Lebanese pride. Whether you’re a wine newbie or a connoisseur, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for what this region produces. Zahle’s food scene also pairs perfectly with the experience, so don’t skip the local cuisine while you’re here.
8. Harissa
- 📍 Location: Harissa, Keserwan District
- 🏆 Best For: Spiritual travelers 🙏, photographers 📷, panoramic views lovers 🌄
- 📸 Top Experiences: Riding the cable car, visiting Our Lady of Lebanon, enjoying views from the hilltop
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May for clear skies and pleasant temps 🌤️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Luxor Hotel – Stylish stay with sea views just a short drive from Harissa
Harissa is a peaceful hilltop town that offers some of the best views in Lebanon. It’s most famous for the statue of Our Lady of Lebanon, which stands tall with arms outstretched, overlooking the bay of Jounieh. The atmosphere around the statue is calm and reflective, attracting both religious pilgrims and casual visitors.
One of the most memorable parts of visiting Harissa is the ride up. The Téléférique cable car glides over pine-covered hills, giving you sweeping views of the Mediterranean and city below. Once you reach the top, there’s a small chapel, walking paths, and quiet spots to sit and take it all in.
Harissa blends natural beauty with spiritual significance. Whether you’re here for the scenery or the sense of calm, it’s easy to see why so many people visit. It’s a great half-day trip from Beirut if you want to slow down and reset.
9. Jeita and Jounieh
- 📍 Location: Jeita and Jounieh, Keserwan District
- 🏆 Best For: Cave explorers 🕳️, beachgoers 🏖️, city-hoppers 🚕
- 📸 Top Experiences: Boating through Jeita Grotto, dining along Jounieh Bay, riding the téléférique
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June for comfortable weather and full grotto access 🌸
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Madisson Hotel – Central Jounieh stay with easy access to grotto and beach
Jeita and Jounieh are perfect paired destinations just outside of Beirut. Jeita Grotto is a natural wonder with limestone formations that look like something from another planet. The upper grotto can be explored on foot, while the lower grotto offers a boat ride through an underground river surrounded by massive stalactites and stalagmites.
After exploring the cave, head over to Jounieh for a completely different scene. The bayfront city is buzzing with energy, offering waterfront restaurants, beach clubs, and sunset views over the Mediterranean. It’s a great place to relax, try seafood, or stroll along the Corniche.
To tie it all together, hop on the cable car from Jounieh to Harissa. The views on the way up are unreal. Whether you’re into nature or nightlife, Jeita and Jounieh offer a fun and easy escape from Beirut with a little bit of everything.
10. Sidon
- 📍 Location: Sidon, South Governorate
- 🏆 Best For: History buffs 🏺, market wanderers 🛍️, cultural travelers 🕌
- 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring Sidon Sea Castle, visiting the Soap Museum, walking through the old souk
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May for pleasant weather and fewer crowds 🌸
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Al Qualaa Boutique Hotel – Traditional rooms in the old town near top sites
Sidon is a historic port city where every street corner seems to hold a story. Its star attraction is the Sidon Sea Castle, a 13th-century fortress that looks straight out of a fantasy novel. Walk across the narrow causeway to reach it, then climb the towers for wide views of the harbor and coastline.
Back in the old town, you’ll find a maze of stone alleys packed with souks, mosques, and artisan shops. One standout is the Soap Museum, which walks you through the city’s centuries-old soap-making tradition. The mix of olive oil scent and old stone walls makes it a strangely soothing stop.
Sidon is laid-back compared to other cities, but that’s part of its charm. You can take your time, wander with no plan, and still stumble across something fascinating. It’s a great spot for slow exploration and a deep dive into southern Lebanon’s culture.
11. The Bekaa Valley
- 📍 Location: Bekaa Governorate, Eastern Lebanon
- 🏆 Best For: Wine lovers 🍷, history seekers 🏛️, countryside explorers 🚗
- 📸 Top Experiences: Touring vineyards, visiting Anjar ruins, enjoying valley views
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: September to November for vineyard harvests and cooler weather 🍇
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Beit El Kroum Boutique Hotel – Countryside villa with vineyard views near Zahle
The Bekaa Valley is a wide, fertile plain that feels like a different world from Lebanon’s coastal cities. Known as the country’s agricultural heart, it’s packed with wineries, farmland, and small towns that stretch between two mountain ranges. If you love slow travel, this is the place to unwind and explore.
Wine tasting is a big draw here. Places like Chateau Ksara and Domaine des Tourelles offer cellar tours and tastings of some of the best bottles in the region. You’ll sip reds and whites while surrounded by historic stone caves and rows of grapevines.
The valley also holds hidden historic gems like Anjar, a UNESCO site with beautiful Umayyad-era ruins. The wide open spaces and rural roads make this region feel more relaxed than the busy cities. A couple of days here gives you a real sense of Lebanon’s land, food, and history all in one go.
12. Tyre
- 📍 Location: Tyre, South Lebanon
- 🏆 Best For: Beach lovers 🏖️, history fans 🏺, laid-back travelers 🧢
- 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting the Roman Hippodrome, lounging on public beaches, walking the old harbor
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for beach weather and lively coastal vibes ☀️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Platinum Hotel – Clean beachfront stay near Tyre’s archaeological sites
Tyre combines beautiful beaches with ancient ruins in one easygoing coastal city. It’s one of the oldest cities in the world, with Phoenician and Roman roots still visible in its crumbling arches, mosaics, and open-air ruins. The Roman Hippodrome is especially impressive and often uncrowded, giving you space to really take it in.
But Tyre isn’t stuck in the past. The city has a fun, breezy feel, especially down by the public beach. You’ll find local families enjoying the water, food stalls serving fresh manakish, and fishing boats bobbing along the horizon. It’s not flashy, but it’s full of warmth and character.
The nearby Christian Quarter and souk are perfect for an afternoon walk. You’ll pass colorful doors, quiet cafés, and kids playing in the streets. Tyre’s mix of relaxed charm and serious history makes it one of the most rewarding stops on any trip through southern Lebanon.
