Things to Do in Beirut

About Beirut

Where ancient phoenician legacy meets modern Mediterranean flair, Beirut pulses with an energy found nowhere else in the Middle East. This resilient capital has reinvented itself time and again, emerging as a city where Roman ruins stand beside Ottoman architecture and cutting-edge design, where Arabic coffee culture intertwines with French sophistication, and where every street corner tells a story of survival and rebirth. Beirut doesn't just welcome visitors—it challenges them to see beyond headlines and discover a place where contradictions create magic.

Travel Tips

• Currency & Cash: Always carry US dollars in addition to Lebanese pounds, as many establishments quote prices in USD and the local currency situation is volatile. ATMs can be unreliable, so exchange money at authorized exchange offices or bring cash from home.

• Transportation: Download the Bolt or Uber apps for safe, affordable rides around the city, as taxis often don't use meters and may overcharge tourists. Alternatively, use the shared service taxis (servees) that follow fixed routes for just 2,000-3,000 LBP per ride.

• Power Outages: Expect frequent electricity cuts throughout the day, so bring a portable power bank for your devices and don't be surprised when shops and restaurants switch to generators. Most hotels and restaurants have backup generators, but smaller establishments may close during outages.

• Neighborhood Navigation: The city lacks a formal addressing system, so locations are typically described by landmarks, neighborhoods (like Mar Mikhael, Hamra, or Gemmayzeh), or proximity to well-known buildings. Download offline maps and ask locals for directions using nearby landmarks rather than street addresses.

When to Visit

When to Visit Beirut, Lebanon

The optimal time to visit Beirut is during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November) when temperatures hover between 20-28°C with low humidity and minimal rainfall, offering perfect conditions for exploring the city's corniche, outdoor cafés, and mountain day trips to nearby Byblos or the Cedars. Summer (June-August) brings sweltering heat reaching 32-35°C with oppressive humidity, though this is peak season for Beirut's legendary nightlife, beach clubs like Sporting Club or Riviera, and festivals such as the Baalbeck International Festival and Beiteddine Art Festival in July-August—expect higher prices and crowded beaches but electric energy throughout the coastal city. Winter (December-February) sees temperatures drop to 10-15°C with frequent rain and occasional storms, making this the quietest and most budget-friendly period, though many beach venues close and mountain roads to ski resorts like Faraya Mzaar can be treacherous; however, you'll experience authentic local life, Christmas celebrations in Mar Mikhael, and significantly cheaper accommodation rates. Avoid visiting during major Lebanese holidays like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha (dates vary by lunar calendar) when many businesses close and locals travel, and be aware that August sees a mass exodus of Lebanese diaspora returning home, inflating prices and creating crowds but also bringing vibrant cultural energy to the city's streets and establishments.