Lebanon - When to Visit

When to Lebanon

Climate guide & best times to travel

Lebanon enjoys a Mediterranean climate with four distinct seasons, offering diverse experiences throughout the year. The coastal regions experience hot, dry summers from June to September with temperatures often exceeding 30°C, while winters from December to March are mild and wet, with significant rainfall and snow in the mountainous regions. The country's unique geography creates microclimates, with the Mount Lebanon range receiving substantial snowfall, making it a rare destination where you can ski in the mountains and swim in the Mediterranean on the Easttimor day during spring. The transitional seasons of spring (April-May) and autumn (October-November) offer the most pleasant weather for exploring Lebanon's rich cultural heritage and natural landscapes. These periods feature moderate temperatures, lower humidity than summer, and minimal rainfall. The coastal humidity remains relatively consistent at around 70% year-round, though it feels more oppressive during the hot summer months. Rainfall is concentrated in the winter months, with the dry season extending from June through September, making summer ideal for beach activities despite the heat.

Best Time to Visit

Beach & Relaxation
June through September offer the warmest sea temperatures and driest weather, with July and August being peak beach season despite higher crowds and temperatures.
Cultural Exploration
April to May and September to October provide comfortable temperatures for visiting archaeological sites, exploring Beirut, and touring the Bekaa Valley without the summer heat or winter rains.
Adventure & Hiking
May through June and September through October are ideal for hiking the Lebanon Mountain Trail and exploring cedar forests, with mild temperatures and clear skies before or after the summer heat.
Budget Travel
November through March (excluding Christmas/New Year) offers lower accommodation rates and fewer tourists, though weather can be unpredictable with rain in coastal areas and snow in the mountains.

Month-by-Month Guide

January

January is the coldest and wettest month in Lebanon, with heavy rainfall along the coast and significant snowfall in the mountains. Ski resorts in the Cedars, Mzaar, and Faraya are in full operation. Coastal cities like Beirut experience cool, rainy days with temperatures averaging 11-17°C, while mountain villages can see sub-zero temperatures.

17°C (63°F) High
11°C (52°F) Low
190mm (7.5in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
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February

February continues the winter pattern with frequent rainfall and cold temperatures, though slightly milder than January. Snow conditions remain excellent in mountain ski resorts. This is one of the quietest months for tourism along the coast, with occasional sunny days breaking through the clouds providing opportunities for off-season exploration.

17°C (63°F) High
11°C (52°F) Low
160mm (6.3in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
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March

March marks the transition from winter to spring, with gradually warming temperatures and decreasing rainfall. The mountains still receive snow early in the month, extending the ski season, while lower elevations begin to bloom with wildflowers. Weather can be unpredictable with mix of sunny and rainy days.

19°C (66°F) High
13°C (55°F) Low
110mm (4.3in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
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April

April brings beautiful spring weather with mild temperatures and decreasing rainfall, making it one of the best months to visit Lebanon. The countryside is lush and green, wildflowers are in full bloom, and outdoor activities become increasingly pleasant. The ski season typically ends by mid-month as snow melts in lower mountain areas.

22°C (72°F) High
16°C (61°F) Low
55mm (2.2in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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May

May offers excellent weather conditions with warm, sunny days and minimal rainfall. Temperatures are comfortable for hiking, sightseeing, and beginning beach activities, though the Mediterranean Sea is still cool. This is peak season for exploring archaeological sites and mountain villages, with the landscape still green from spring rains.

26°C (79°F) High
20°C (68°F) Low
20mm (0.8in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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June

June marks the beginning of summer with hot, dry weather and virtually no rainfall. Beach season begins in earnest as sea temperatures become comfortable for swimming. Coastal areas experience increasing heat and humidity, while mountain regions offer pleasant escape with cooler temperatures, making this a popular time for both beach-goers and mountain retreats.

29°C (84°F) High
23°C (73°F) Low
5mm (0.2in) Rainfall
High Crowds
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July

July is one of the hottest and driest months, with peak summer conditions throughout Lebanon. Coastal areas can be uncomfortably hot and humid, driving many Lebanese to mountain resorts and villages. Beaches are crowded, and the Mediterranean Sea reaches its warmest temperatures. This is peak tourist season with high prices and full accommodations.

32°C (90°F) High
26°C (79°F) Low
0mm (0in) Rainfall
High Crowds
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August

August continues July's hot, dry pattern and is typically the hottest month of the year. The heat is intense along the coast with high humidity, making mountain areas particularly popular. Beaches remain crowded with both tourists and locals. Evening temperatures stay warm, perfect for Beirut's busy nightlife and outdoor dining.

33°C (91°F) High
26°C (79°F) Low
0mm (0in) Rainfall
High Crowds
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September

September offers ideal conditions with summer heat beginning to moderate while the sea remains warm for swimming. Rainfall is still minimal, and crowds start to thin as the peak season ends. This is an excellent time for both beach activities and cultural exploration, with comfortable temperatures and lower accommodation prices than July-August.

31°C (88°F) High
24°C (75°F) Low
10mm (0.4in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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October

October brings pleasant autumn weather with warm days, cooler evenings, and occasional rainfall toward month's end. The Mediterranean Sea is still warm enough for swimming early in the month. This is one of the best times to visit, with comfortable temperatures for hiking and exploring, beautiful autumn colors in the mountains, and fewer tourists.

27°C (81°F) High
21°C (70°F) Low
50mm (2in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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November

November marks the transition to winter with increasing rainfall and cooler temperatures. The weather becomes more unpredictable with mix of sunny and rainy days. Tourist crowds diminish significantly, making it a good time for budget travelers. Higher mountain areas may see first snowfall late in the month.

23°C (73°F) High
17°C (63°F) Low
100mm (3.9in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
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December

December brings winter weather with frequent rainfall along the coast and snowfall in the mountains, signaling the start of ski season. Temperatures drop significantly, especially at higher elevations. Beirut experiences cool, wet weather but comes alive with Christmas and New Year celebrations. Tourism picks up slightly during the holiday period.

19°C (66°F) High
13°C (55°F) Low
150mm (5.9in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
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Activities in Lebanon