Lebanon unfolds like a precious manuscript where ancient civilizations have inscribed their stories across mountains that kiss the Mediterranean sky. This jewel of the Levant captivates with its intoxicating blend of cedar-scented highlands, golden beaches, and cities where Roman columns stand sentinel beside bustling souks. Here, the call to prayer mingles with church bells, while the aroma of za'atar and freshly baked manakish drifts through narrow cobblestone alleys. From the mystical temples of Baalbek to Beirut's pulsating nightlife, Lebanon offers a sensory journey through millennia. Every corner whispers tales of Phoenician traders, Crusader knights, and Ottoman merchants, while contemporary Lebanon thrives with an irrepressible joie de vivre. The warmth of Lebanese hospitality transforms strangers into family over endless mezze feasts, where conversations flow as freely as the arak. This is a land where you can ski in the morning and swim in the afternoon, where every sunset over the Mediterranean feels like a personal gift from the gods themselves.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Use service taxis (shared rides) for budget-friendly intercity travel at 2,000-5,000 LBP. Download apps like Careem or Uber for reliable city transport. Avoid driving in Beirut—traffic is chaotic and parking nearly impossible. For mountain excursions, hire a driver or join organized tours.

Money: Carry US dollars—widely accepted alongside Lebanese pounds (LBP). Exchange at official banks or authorized dealers only; avoid street exchangers. ATMs often have limited cash; withdraw maximum amounts when available. Credit cards work in upscale establishments but cash is essential for local vendors.

Cultural Respect: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites—cover shoulders and knees. Remove shoes before entering mosques. During Ramadan (dates vary), respect fasting by not eating publicly during daylight. Learn basic Arabic greetings; locals appreciate the effort despite widespread English and French fluency.

Food Safety: Embrace street food—Lebanon's hygiene standards are generally excellent. Try manakish for breakfast, shawarma from busy stalls (high turnover means fresh meat), and fresh juice stands. Tap water is safe in most areas, but bottled water is recommended in rural regions.

When to Visit

Lebanon's Mediterranean climate offers distinct seasonal experiences. Spring (March-May) delivers perfect weather with temperatures of 18-25°C, minimal rainfall (20-40mm monthly), and blooming wildflowers across the mountains. This peak season sees hotel prices 40-60% higher than winter rates. Summer (June-September) brings hot, dry conditions with coastal temperatures reaching 30-35°C and mountain areas staying cooler at 20-28°C. Beach season peaks in July-August with virtually no rainfall, but accommodation costs surge 50-70% above off-season rates. The Beiteddine Festival (July-August) and Baalbek International Festival (July-August) transform ancient venues into world-class performance spaces. Autumn (October-November) offers ideal conditions with 20-26°C temperatures, occasional light rains (40-80mm), and 30-40% lower prices than summer. Winter (December-February) sees cooler temperatures of 10-18°C on the coast, with mountain regions perfect for skiing at resorts like Faraya Mzaar. Rainfall peaks at 100-180mm monthly, but hotel rates drop 50-60%. Budget travelers should target November-March, while culture enthusiasts should plan around summer festivals. Hiking enthusiasts will find April-June and September-November optimal for mountain trails.

Lebanon location map