Lebanon: 9 places to see from Beirut to Byblos and Baalbek
Explore Lebanon's cultural and natural landmarks along this 25-minute route covering diverse attractions from ancient Roman ruins to limestone caves and religious pilgrimage sites across the country's varied landscape.
- Mode
- Places
- Start
- SPONSOR - HOLAFLY
- End
- Tripoli Citadel
- Stops
- 9
- Video author
- travmap
- Updated
Stops on this route
- SPONSOR - HOLAFLY
- Beirut — Capital city of Lebanon on the Mediterranean coast, serving as the country's cultural and economic center with rich history and modern attractions.
- Baalbek
- Jeita Grotto — The longest cave system in the Middle East, featuring two interconnected limestone caves with crystal-clear underground waters and mystical atmosphere.
- Byblos
- Byblos Citadel — 12th-century Crusader fortress built from local limestone atop Roman ruins, defending the ancient city from Mediterranean invaders with panoramic views.
- Batroun
- Ixsir Winery — Popular Lebanese winery producing complex red wines with deep berry flavors, featuring traditional oak-aging cellars and quality comparable to European producers.
- Tripoli Citadel — Crusader fortress built in 1105 and expanded by Mamluk and Ottoman rulers, featuring characteristic black and white arches and commanding views of old Tripoli.
Useful for your trip
- Transport
- Hire a driver and guide to visit Lebanon's sites. Recommended: Khaled's Tours (lebanontrip.com) - guide Khaled is knowledgeable and provides great company.
- Tip
- Use Holafly E-Sim for mobile data while traveling. Get 5% off with discount code MALINIANGELICA. Virtual SIM installs via QR code, covers 130+ countries.
- Food
- Try Labneh sandwich (thick layer of cheese, cucumber, tomato) for traditional Lebanese breakfast at local eateries.
- Food
- Visit Baalbek for Roman ruins and authentic food stops with traditional methods. Try Sviha (savory pastry) and Manakish (za'atar and cheese on flatbread).
- Food
- Always order Mezza (appetizers) with Lebanese meals. Lebanese food emphasizes creativity and Mediterranean-Middle Eastern influences.
- Food
- Visit Batroun for fresh seafood at authentic restaurants and beach clubs. Order eggplant with tahini as a side.
- Food
- Try Lebanese wine from Ixsir Winery near Batroun. Lebanese wines are complex and comparable to Italian and Spanish producers.
- Food
- Visit Halab in Tripoli (operating since 1881) for renowned traditional Lebanese sweets like Ghibli (cheese pastry with syrup) and Baklava.
- Tip
- Visit Jeita Grotto, the longest cave system in the Middle East and Lebanon's greatest natural wonder. One of the New Seven Wonders of the World finalists.
- Tip
- Explore Byblos Citadel (built 12th century by Crusaders). Located 1 hour north of Beirut. See medieval Arab and crusader ruins in the old town.
- Tip
- Visit Harissa Basilica, a holy pilgrimage site for Maronite Christians. Features cedar trees (symbol on Lebanese flag) representing eternity.
- Avoid
- In any country, avoid unsafe areas. Lebanon has safe tourist areas; research specific neighborhoods and follow local guidance.