Things to Do in Beirut in December

December weather, activities, events & insider tips

December Weather in Beirut

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Rainfall

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Is December Right for You?

Advantages

December rainfall averages just 142 mm (5.6 inches) making it one of Beirut's wettest months, creating lush mountain landscapes perfect for hiking the Lebanon Trail sections near the city
Cool temperatures 13-19°C (55-66°F) make exploring Beirut's hilly neighborhoods comfortable - walking from Hamra to Downtown covers 2.5 km (1.6 miles) without overheating
Christmas season transforms Christian quarters of Achrafieh and Gemmayzeh with elaborate decorations, while Muslim areas maintain normal rhythm - experiencing both cultures simultaneously
Hotel rates drop 30-40% compared to summer peak season, with boutique properties in Mar Mikhael offering rooms from $80-120 versus $150-200 in July

Considerations

Rain falls on 10 days throughout December, typically as intense afternoon downpours lasting 1-2 hours that flood Beirut's inadequate drainage system, disrupting outdoor plans
Many rooftop bars and outdoor restaurants close their terraces during rainy periods, limiting Beirut's famous nightlife scene to indoor venues
Shorter daylight hours mean sunset by 5:30 PM, reducing time for outdoor activities and limiting the golden hour photography opportunities along the Corniche

Best Activities in December

Lebanese Mountain Hiking Tours

December's rainfall creates spectacular waterfalls in the Mount Lebanon range just 45 minutes from Beirut. The Baatara Gorge Waterfall reaches peak flow, and temperatures of 5-10°C (41-50°F) at 1,200 m (3,937 ft) elevation make hiking comfortable without summer's oppressive heat. Crowds are minimal compared to spring hiking season.

Booking Tip: Book mountain tours 5-7 days ahead through licensed operators. Tours typically cost $40-60 per person including transportation from Beirut. Look for operators with 4WD vehicles as mountain roads can be wet. Reference booking widget for current tour options.

Beirut Food Walking Tours

Cool December weather makes 3-4 hour food walks through Hamra, Mar Mikhael, and Gemmayzeh districts comfortable. Winter specialties include hot man'oushe with za'atar, warming lentil soup, and seasonal muhammara made with fresh walnuts. Indoor souks and covered markets provide shelter during rain showers.

Booking Tip: Food tours run daily except Sundays, typically 10 AM-2 PM to avoid afternoon rain. Cost ranges $35-55 per person including 6-8 tastings. Book 3-4 days ahead for weekend tours. See current options in booking section below.

Baalbek Archaeological Site Tours

December's cooler temperatures make the 1.5-hour drive and 2-3 hours exploring Baalbek's Roman temples comfortable. Clear winter air offers stunning views of the Bekaa Valley from the Temple of Jupiter. Tourist crowds are 70% smaller than summer months, allowing better photography opportunities.

Booking Tip: Full-day Baalbek tours cost $75-95 per person including round-trip transport and guide. Book 7-10 days ahead as fewer tours operate in winter. Choose tours departing 8-9 AM to return before potential afternoon rain. Reference booking widget for current tour availability.

Jeita Grotto Cave Exploration

Lebanon's famous limestone caves maintain constant 16°C (61°F) temperature year-round, providing perfect refuge during December's variable weather. Winter water levels in the underground river are at their highest, creating more dramatic boat rides through the lower grotto. The 20-minute cable car ride offers misty mountain views.

Booking Tip: Jeita Grotto tours typically cost $25-40 per person from Beirut including transport and entrance fees. Book 2-3 days ahead as the grotto occasionally closes during heavy rain days. Morning departures recommended to avoid afternoon weather. See current tours in booking section.

Byblos Historical City Tours

Ancient Byblos, 37 km (23 miles) north of Beirut, becomes particularly atmospheric in December with fewer tourists and dramatic winter lighting for photography. The archaeological site's 7,000-year history is best appreciated in cool weather that makes the 90-minute walking tour comfortable.

Booking Tip: Half-day Byblos tours cost $45-65 per person including coastal drive and guided site visit. Tours operate year-round but book 5-7 days ahead in December due to limited schedule. Choose tours with indoor museum components for rainy day backup plans.

Beirut Museum District Cultural Tours

December's rainy weather makes it perfect for exploring Beirut's world-class museums. The National Museum houses 100,000 artifacts, while the Sursock Museum showcases modern Lebanese art. Indoor cultural activities align perfectly with December's unpredictable outdoor conditions.

Booking Tip: Museum tours cost $20-35 per person and can be booked same-day. Most museums close Mondays. Purchase combined tickets for 15% savings. Private cultural guides available for $80-120 per day. Reference booking section for current cultural tour packages.

December Events & Festivals

Mid December

Beirut Christmas Markets

Souq al-Gharb and Downtown Beirut host Christmas markets featuring local artisans, traditional Lebanese sweets, and mulled wine. Markets blend Christian traditions with Middle Eastern culture, offering unique gifts like handcrafted olive wood nativity scenes and Lebanese Christmas cookies.

December 31st

New Year's Eve Fireworks at Zaitunay Bay

Beirut's main New Year's celebration features fireworks over the Mediterranean at Zaitunay Bay marina. Free public viewing areas along the Corniche, with paid VIP viewing sections at waterfront restaurants. Celebration includes live Lebanese and international music acts.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Waterproof jacket with hood - December's 10 rainy days feature sudden downpours that can soak you in minutes

Comfortable waterproof walking shoes - Beirut's limestone streets become slippery when wet, and you'll walk 5-8 km (3-5 miles) daily exploring neighborhoods

Layers including light sweater - temperatures swing from 13°C (55°F) at dawn to 19°C (66°F) afternoon, requiring flexible clothing options

Compact umbrella - essential for sudden rain showers that hit without warning, especially in exposed areas like the Corniche

SPF 30+ sunscreen - despite clouds, UV index reaches 8 and reflects off wet surfaces and Mediterranean water

Power bank and waterproof phone case - rain can disrupt outdoor charging opportunities and damage electronics

Cash in small denominations - many local restaurants and shops in traditional neighborhoods don't accept cards, especially during weather-related power outages

Quick-dry pants - avoid jeans which stay wet for hours in 70% humidity conditions

Light scarf - protects against cool Mediterranean winds while walking the 4.8 km (3 mile) Corniche waterfront

Closed-toe shoes for evening - December nights drop to 13°C (55°F) making sandals uncomfortable for dinner and nightlife

Insider Knowledge

Lebanese locals embrace December rain as relief from summer heat - join them at covered traditional cafes in Hamra playing backgammon rather than fighting the weather

Book restaurants with both indoor and outdoor seating - many places close their terraces during rain, and popular spots fill up with indoor-only capacity

December is olive oil season - visit traditional markets like Souk el Tayeb on Saturdays for fresh-pressed olive oil at 40% lower prices than imported versions

Take advantage of off-season hotel rates to stay in boutique properties in Achrafieh or Mar Mikhael rather than generic business hotels - rates drop significantly from summer peaks