Things to Do at National Museum of Beirut

Complete Guide to National Museum of Beirut in Beirut

About National Museum of Beirut

National Museum Of Beirut offers visitors guided tours running every 45 minutes with admission typically 225000 LBP ($15.08 USD). Arrive early (before 9:30 AM) to avoid tour groups and enjoy better photography lighting. Fresh mountain air carries the sound of church bells from the distance while gravel pathways crunch satisfyingly beneath visitors' feet. This Beirut landmark operates in partnership with local universities, offering specialized research access to qualified visitors.

What to See & Do

Phoenician Sarcophagi

Intricately carved stone coffins from the Phoenician period, including the famous Ahiram sarcophagus with some of the earliest Phoenician inscriptions

Roman Mosaics

Beautifully preserved floor mosaics depicting mythological scenes and daily life, relocated from archaeological sites across Lebanon

Ancient Jewelry Collection

Delicate gold and silver pieces spanning millennia, showcasing the sophisticated craftsmanship of ancient Lebanese artisans

Bronze Age Artifacts

Tools, weapons, and ceremonial objects that give you a sense of daily life in ancient Lebanon

Byzantine Religious Art

Icons, mosaics, and religious artifacts from Lebanon's early Christian period

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Tuesday to Sunday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, closed Mondays

Tickets & Pricing

Adults: 5,000 LBP (approximately $3 USD), Students: 1,000 LBP, Children under 6 free

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings tend to be quieter, while weekends can get busy with local families

Suggested Duration

2-3 hours for a thorough visit, though you could easily spend longer if you're particularly interested in archaeology

Getting There

The massive stone building dominates Badaro district. You can spot this museum from blocks away-it screams cultural importance with every architectural detail. Skip the parking nightmare. Taxis and ride-shares run easily from central Beirut. Downtown visitors can walk the 20-minute route through decent neighborhoods, though Beirut traffic makes wheels the better call. Street parking exists but causes more problems than convenience.

Things to Do Nearby

Sursock Museum
Beirut's contemporary art museum housed in a beautiful 19th-century villa, about 10 minutes away

Downtown Beirut
The reconstructed city center with archaeological ruins, upscale shopping, and numerous cafes and restaurants

Martyrs' Square
Historic plaza that's been central to many of Lebanon's political movements and celebrations

Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque
Striking blue-domed mosque that's become an iconic part of Beirut's skyline

Beirut Souks
Modern shopping complex built over ancient commercial areas, blending contemporary retail with archaeological discoveries

Tips & Advice

Photography is allowed in most areas, but flash photography might be restricted for certain artifacts

The museum shop actually has some interesting books on Lebanese archaeology and decent reproductions if you're looking for souvenirs

Consider combining your visit with the nearby Sursock Museum for a full day of culture

The museum can get quite cool inside, so you might want to bring a light jacket even on warm days