Historical Sites
Beirut, Lebanon, has a long, rich history that dates back thousands of years and is filled with many historical sites. From ancient ruins to modern architecture, there is something to explore for everyone.
Here are some of the most famous historical sites that you can visit while you’re in Beirut:
The National Museum of Beirut
The National Museum of Beirut is a major tourist attraction, showcasing the country’s rich and storied past. Located in the Iraqi Souk/Souq al Hariri district of downtown Beirut, this grand building was established in 1942 and has become one of Lebanon’s most visited cultural sites.
The museum houses a collection of artifacts collected over centuries, such as pottery and stones from Phoenician times, ancient Hellenistic statues and coins, mosaics dating back to Roman and Byzantine eras, wooden artifacts from the Ottoman Empire (1516–1918), and much more. Visitors can also catch glimpses into Lebanon’s recent past through unique displays such as vintage photos from renowned photographer Willy Philipps.
Admission fees are minimal – 3 USD for adults – so visitors should reserve some time for leisurely exploring this fantastic museum with its various collections comprising fascinating items unearthed during archaeological digs throughout Lebanon.
The Sursock Museum
The Sursock Museum is a Modern and Contemporary art museum in Beirut, Lebanon. It is in the historic Sursock Palace, built by Nicolas Sursock at the end of the 19th century. The museum opened its doors to the public in 1961 and aimed to promote Lebanese art and culture. The collection began with works donated by family members and later expanded to include works of art from international artists. With more than 1,000 works covering two floors, the museum displays a variety of themes such as modernism, abstractionism, and surrealism by artists ranging from Saloua Raouda Choucair, and Youssef Howayek to Paul Guiragossian, Cesar Gemayel and Marwan Rechmaoui.
The Sursock Museum also houses temporary exhibitions throughout the year focusing on current topics related to international culture. The museum also hosts semi-regular educational events like film screenings, lectures, and workshops for different age groups and adults. Guided tours are available in Arabic or English, and a collection catalog can be purchased at the reception desk or online.
The Roman Baths of Beirut
Located in the heart of downtown Beirut, the Roman Baths of Beirut is a historical landmark that dates back to the earliest days of Roman rule in Lebanon. They were built in 193 AD; the baths were once part of a Roman bathhouse that served as a social gathering place and source of entertainment for locals.
The baths feature many distinct features, including vast spas with water-filled tanks and steam rooms, ornately decorated walls depicting scenes from Roman mythology, and thermal pools with hot and cold waters.
Visitors to the Roman Baths can experience the architectural heritage of ancient Rome while enjoying a unique glimpse into history. Visitors are welcome to explore the premises and steam rooms, soak in traditional spa treatments, or relax by one of the thermal pools. The sites also boast an array of restored artifacts such as statues, mosaics, furniture, and other relics from ancient times.
The Roman Baths are open to visitors throughout most days for self-guided tours or optional guided tours with trained professionals and historians. After exploring this historic landmark, visitors can take some time to wander through Beirut’s vibrant city center or enjoy its numerous cultural offerings, such as:
- galleries
- museums
- coffee houses
- markets
Providing an unforgettable experience!
Outdoor Activities
One of the best things about Beirut is that there are plenty of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. From museums to beaches, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the top outdoor activities in Beirut that visitors should not miss. Whether you’re looking for a day trip, a weekend adventure, or an entire week of exploring, Beirut has something for you.
Raouche Rock
Raouche Rock, also known as Pigeon’s Rock, is a vast, honey-colored rock resembling the head of a giant pharaoh that stands at the entrance of Beirut’s picturesque Mediterranean coastline. It captures the city’s Mediterranean spirit and can be viewed from downtown Beirut.
For those looking to explore Raouche Rock further, steps are carved into the rock leading up to two flat surfaces where two smaller rocks are located. Nowadays, Raouche is most frequented by fishermen braving Lebanon’s coastal waters in search of their catch and tourists led by local guides which provide detailed accounts of its rich history.
Alongside its impressive views, distinctive look, and Omani significance to locals, a few incredible activities await explorers on site:
- scuba diving (however prohibitively expensive for local Lebanese residents due to lack of availability),
- abseiling down the side or swimming alongside if you brave the cold water.
Moreover, visitors come in droves during sunset, where observers marvel at one of Beirut’s most graceful natural sights – its vibrant sunsets that glance off Raouche’s rocky facade. From Raouche, you can continue your journey on foot until you reach St Nicolas Protectorate, known affectionately as Bayader el Sultanat by Beirutis locals, which sits at the bottom. As you may expect, given its popularity with locals and tourists alike, visit early to avoid large crowds or return after sunset if you wish for some peace!
Beirut City Park
Beirut City Park is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore various activities. Located in the center of Beirut, this vibrant green space offers visitors plenty of opportunities to get out and enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of one of the Middle East’s major destinations.
The park comprises open fields, gardens, and waterfront areas where visitors can enjoy walking, jogging, or simply strolling to enjoy incredible views. You can even bring your favorite sports equipment for an exciting game of volleyball or basketball, with courts for both available on-site. When you’re ready for an adventure, there are bike trails that meander through the terrain for you to get as close as possible to nature.
Beirut City Park also has plenty to offer those summertime dwellers looking for aquatic escapades – from swimming pools and fountains; it caters to those who want a refreshing dip while admiring this stunningly beautiful location. Its art gallery exhibits feature various heritage works, making it an ideal fit for any art enthusiast exploring creative pursuits in a magnificent setting. Visitors can also enjoy multiple food kiosks set up throughout, which serve up a tempting array of international cuisine snacks and light meals.
From its uninterrupted scenic views, adventure-filled trails, and awe-inspiring artwork – Beirut City Park stands at an epicenter that offers something special while providing moments that enthrall every visitor that sets foot into its midst!
Beirut Seaport
Beirut Seaport, located on the Eastern Mediterranean Sea, is a magnificent port city in Lebanon treasured by locals and tourists alike. From boat rentals to beachfront bars and beautiful beaches, this downtown area is ideal for spending time outdoors. Whether you’re looking to spend the day shopping, sightseeing, or taking in the local culture, Beirut Seaport offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages.
A great place to start exploring is the recently renovated waterfront promenade. Featuring plenty of seating areas with views of the marina and boats constantly sailing out into the harbor, it’s an ideal spot for people-watching or simply enjoying a pleasant walk at sunset. In addition, visitors can take advantage of the numerous cafes and seafood restaurants throughout the area which offer a variety of local cuisine catering from traditional dishes to modern fusion fare.
As for activities during your visit, keep your eyes open for electric bike rentals and ATV tours along the beaches just off Beirut Seaport. In addition, you can explore nearby towns, historical sites, and nature reserves, home to unique wildlife like foxes, birds, and even wild boar! An excellent way to explore the city’s outskirts further is by renting a boat from one of many tour operators in Beirut Seaport; take in sweeping views of historical ruins and picturesque coastlines as you dip your oars right into sparkling blue waters.
Shopping
If you love shopping, Beirut is the place for you. This cosmopolitan city boasts various shops, from luxury malls to traditional souks. So whether you are looking for craft souvenirs, designer duds, or anything else, you will find them in Beirut.
Let’s explore some of the best shopping spots in the city:
Beirut Souks
Beirut Souks is a complex of streets, plazas, and alleyways in the vibrant downtown area of Beirut. The area has been reconstructed recently and now contains several trendy stores, cafes, restaurants, and nightspots. Visitors can find various shopping items here, from traditional clothing to electronics.
A mix of traditional Lebanese stores is interspersed with more modern outlets offering everything from perfumes to jewelry to shoes. There is something for everyone at Beirut Souks!
The souk offers an excellent opportunity to explore Lebanon’s culture by browsing products that reflect the nation’s history. Ancient-style souks surround fountains while locals and visitors mingle together over Middle Eastern snacks and drinks; it’s an exciting experience! It’s also a great place to learn more about traditional handicrafts like pottery, embroidery, and glasswork, which make unique souvenirs or gifts.
Beirut Souks is open seven days per week, providing ample time for visitors to explore the bustling market without worrying about keeping track of opening times or closing days. Many choices are available within bustling walkways, from clothing boutiques to small local craft shops. However, it is worth noting that haggling with shopkeepers may be expected as part of the bargain-hunting experience!
Hamra Street
Hamra Street is one of Lebanon’s most vibrant and high-energy shopping districts. It is in Beirut, with local stores, restaurants, bars, and cafes. The street is, to many, the soul of Beirut. It is the perfect location to find a piece of Lebanon’s culture, history, and hip modern side since Hamra has some of the trendiest local boutiques.
From traditional souks like Souk el Tayeb that sells organic products from local farms to large modern malls such as ABC Shopping Mall or Emirates Le Grand Shopping Mall, where you will find international brands like Guess, Levis, Diesel, and more, Hamra Street offers a wide range of places to shop for clothing, souvenirs or home decor. Besides clothes and gifts, you can also find books, electronics, and music from different stores lining the streets of Hamra or one of their covered galleries, such as El Amine Galleria.
One highlight of HamraStreet’s shopping experience is that you can enjoy a cup of coffee while browsing through stores. Bars are abundant throughout the street, including several popular cafes such as Pigeon’s Café Warneet, Sunflower Cafe & Gallery, and great restaurants like Machneyuda Restaurant (for Lebanese cuisine) or Hummus Abbas (for vegan hummus). At night the area fills up with people looking for good food or an exciting night out.
ABC Mall
ABC Mall is one of Beirut’s most popular shopping destinations in the Ashrafieh District. It’s home to more than 190 stores, including international brands such as Zara, Mango, and H&M, as well as high-end luxury boutiques. There are also dozens of eateries and cafes to choose from if you need to refuel while you shop.
There are plenty of entertainment options, too, with an Imax cinema, bowling alley, ice rink, and interactive rides. For those looking for a place to relax after a busy day exploring the sights of Beirut or shopping at ABC mall, there are plenty of bar lounges in the nearby area.
ABC mall also has a weekly farmers’ market where small-scale farmers and artisanal producers can sell their products directly to shoppers – it’s a great way to discover local specialties and ingredients without roaming through bazaars around Beirut!
Nightlife
Beirut is a city that comes alive at night, with a lively nightlife filled with bars, clubs, lounges, and other entertainment venues. So whether you’re looking for a wild night out or more of a relaxed atmosphere, Beirut has it all.
In this article, we’ll discuss some of the best nightlife spots in Beirut and what makes them so unique:
Gemmayzeh
Gemmayzeh is one of Beirut’s most popular nightlife areas and hasn’t changed much. It is in the historic district and features a mix of old-style cafes, classy bars, and lively pubs.
Going out in Gemmayzeh is an experience, as local Lebanese favorites like mezze platters overlap with more international cuisine options. This area has something for everyone, allowing you to enjoy shisha while relaxing at a café terrace or dancing the night away with friends in one of its bars. A few nightclubs stay open late, but most establishments close at 2:00 am on weekdays and 3:00 am on weekends.
You can also catch live music performances occasionally – be sure to check around for cool events during your stay!
Mar Mikhael
Mar Mikhael is one of Beirut’s most popular and vibrant neighborhoods, offering a great nightlife atmosphere in Lebanon’s capital. Named after Saint Michael, this area is an eclectic blend of the old and the modern, renowned for its unique cultural attractions and vibrant street life. Easily accessible from downtown Beirut, Mar Mikhael offers visitors a wide selection of pubs, nightclubs, art galleries, and restaurants.
Throughout the evening, Mar Mikhael brings together a mishmash of locals and travelers to enjoy its many bars. Each bar has its distinct character ranging from relaxed to high-energy atmospheres at B018, Zig Zag Club, or Gotha Club. Music ranges from popular Lebanese tunes to house music from local DJs. In addition, several traditional shops in the area have been converted into open-air bars with warm yellow illumination, significantly contributing to the atmosphere.
The nightlife in Mar Mikhael is full of adventure and entertainment, especially for grownups looking to relax after an adventurous day in town or want to dance till the break of dawn. The neighborhood is vibrant on weekends when more people turn out to enjoy its laid-back vibes with friends or indulge themselves in creative live performances of talented musicians playing jazz music paired with oriental cuisine that can be found nearby at Damascus Street and Mamilla Street cafes.
Mar Mikhael embodies the exciting mix between past and present in Beirut – providing visitors with traditional tastes and new experiences, again as one of South Lebanon’s hotspots for nightlife every year.
Monot Street
Monot Street is one of the most famous streets for nightlife in Beirut, Lebanon. Located near downtown and filled with trendy restaurants, bars, and lounges, Monot Street offers something for everyone. From hard-hitting live music venues to unique speakeasies, the street boasts many places to explore, no matter what kind of experience you want.
The street’s lively atmosphere draws locals and tourists alike on weekends when venues open late. With its idyllic location between Saint George Bay and downtown Beirut, Monot Street is a great place to catch up with friends or search for your newest favorite hangout spot.
Popular venues include Vodka Bar, Gazebo Bar & Lounge, and White Club, which offer various drinks and DJ nights throughout the week. So whether you’re looking for an after-hours party or somewhere to grab a few drinks before dinner, Monot Street has something for everyone.
Food
Beirut is a city full of delicious culinary delights. Whether you’re looking for street food or a more formal sit-down meal, the city has a dish to suit every palate. You will find something to enjoy, from hummus to falafel to kibbeh and kebab.
Here are some of the best food experiences that Beirut has to offer:
Manoushe Street
Manoushe Street is a popular eatery in Beirut, Lebanon, and offers various tasty snacks. Manoushe is lighter than pizza and provides freshly baked flatbread topped with za’atar, oregano, sumac, labneh, eggs, or minced meat and then served hot. Lebanese locals and travelers come to the Manoushe Street restaurants to sample this delicious food.
Another popular variation on Manoushe is a dessert option – a sweet tooth treat with creamy white cheese topped with honey and walnuts.
Whether you are nibbling on lunch or satisfying your sweet tooth craving, the Manoushe Street eateries offer an array of nutritious snacks for diners any time of the day. With its unique flavors, it’s no wonder visitors flock to these restaurants for an unforgettable experience of Lebanese cuisine. So if you’re ready to try something new in Beirut’s culinary landscape – Manoushe Street is the place to visit!
Falafel Kebbe
Falafel Kebbe is a popular street snack available in Beirut, Lebanon. It is prepared using a combination of fava beans, chickpeas, onion, and garlic and then crushed into a paste. The paste is then shaped into balls and then deep-fried until golden brown. This delicious treat is served with pickled vegetables or cabbage salad.
The falafel balls are typically served on pita bread with various toppings such as tahini (sesame seed paste), pickles, tahini sauce, tomatoes, and red onions, depending on personal preference. Falafel Kebbe usually costs no more than 3 USD per meal. This tasty snack can be found in most restaurants and street vendors throughout Beirut.
Lebanese Cuisine
Discover the exquisite taste of Lebanese cuisine in Beirut, the capital city of one of the most fabled regions in the Middle East. With a distinctive, multilayered flavor to its dishes, Lebanon is renowned for its diversity and quality – thanks to a combination of fresh ingredients and traditional techniques that span thousands of years. Spanning street food to exquisite gourmet meals, Beirut has many unique offerings that no foodie should miss.
Whether you’re looking for an authentic local experience or something beyond traditional Lebanese fare, dive into classic delicacies like kibbeh, mezze platters, fatteh, and falafel before exploring dishes unique to Beirut like hummus w/lavash bread or tabbouleh. It’s not just about dining out either; Lebanon is open to its long-held culinary secrets, so don’t forget to check out cooking classes or shops selling recipes!
Unfamiliar with Lebanese food? Here are just some of the creative combinations you can expect:
- Falafel patties made from chickpeas & vegetable mix topped with yogurt & garlic sauce.
- Minestrone-style soup prepared from couscous (semolina) base & lamb beans mix.
- Salads featuring spinach leaves soaked in tangy lemon juice.
- Hummus dip made from mashed chickpeas blended with tahini (sesame seed paste).
- Stuffed vine leaves swimming in rich lemon & olive oil sauce.
Whatever your tastes are, there’s something here for everyone!