Tourist Attractions in Lebanon

The most interesting and beautiful tourist sites in Lebanon

Photos, reviews, descriptions, and links to maps

About Lebanon

Lebanon is a country that opens to the tourist a whole world of the magical east in the usual European format. There is a huge number of sights in the country, which are worth touching at least once in your life.

Few people associate Lebanon with Europe. And hardly many people consider it as an interesting destination for tourism. And for nothing! The country has a lot of old, ancient cities and settlements. It seems that the development of civilisation began in these very lands. In Baalbek and Byblos you can see architectural monuments, the creation of which is attributed to aliens, because of their huge size and designs.

It is also worth paying attention to the natural beauties of the country. The most impressive are the Jaita Caves, the Pigeon Rocks and the picturesque valleys lying between the mountain ranges. You can explore these places even without the help of a guide. Crowds of tourists will not interfere with a quiet holiday.

Lebanon is a Mediterranean country. The country has all conditions for beach holidays: the beaches are clean, well-groomed, with a developed infrastructure. It is surprising how such a small country accommodates such a variety and richness of culture and nature.

Top-24 Tourist Attractions in Lebanon

Beirut Central District

 0/5

Beirut is the capital of Lebanon and its largest city. It has an area of only 20 km², which is home to a huge number of attractions. Beirut is called the “Paris of the Middle East”. It was part of France and has retained a European outlook on life. At the same time, the capital is colourful, everything here reminds of the splendid Arab traditions.

Baalbek Roman Ruins

 4.8/5

4589 reviews

Eighty kilometres from Beirut lies the ancient city of Baalbek. It was inhabited before Christ, and its temples have been built and rebuilt for 2,000 years. Their creation is attributed to extraterrestrial civilisations or heroes of biblical tales: such incredible size and construction of buildings. The most interesting for tourists are the terraces made of blocks weighing up to 1000 tonnes, the temple of Jupiter and the temple of Bacchus, which is very well preserved.

Open time

Monday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Ancient Byblos

 4.8/5

99 reviews

X thousand years ago there were the first settlements on the territory of Byblos, and in the 3rd millennium BC the city was an important religious and commercial centre. Since then, people have never left it. On the territory of the city you can see ancient churches, Roman theatre, archaeological complex, fortress. In Byblos you can feel the atmosphere of one of the oldest cities in the world, a mix of cultures and traditions.

Open time

Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Umayyad City Ruins

 4.6/5

872 reviews

The city is located 58 kilometres from Beirut. There is an assumption that the place of Anjar was once the ancient Iturean city of Chalcis. The city itself has not been found, but archaeologists have discovered the remains of a majestic palace complex. Its ruins and neighbouring territories are included in the UNESCO heritage list. Modern Anjar was founded in 1939 and is inhabited by 2400 people, most of whom are Armenians.

Open time

Monday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Jeita Grotto

 4.7/5

6330 reviews

This is an incredible natural attraction that is a must-see. It represents a tunnel – an exit from an underground river. The karst limestone caves stretch for almost 9 kilometres, but only 600 metres are shown to tourists. Also in one of the caves they found the remains of a foundry. In ancient times people made weapons here. A unique music festival is held in the cave every year.

Open time

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Our Lady of Lebanon بازيليك سيدة لبنان

 4.8/5

5719 reviews

It is a monument built in the town of Junia, 20 kilometres from Beirut. It was cast in France and then transported to Lebanon and placed on Harissa Hill, which is 650 metres high. Therefore, the 20-metre high statue of the Virgin Mary can be seen from anywhere in the city. You can go up to it by cable car and see the area at the same time. There are also many attractions at the foot of the mountain.

Open time

National Museum of Beirut

 4.6/5

2589 reviews

To understand Lebanon’s rich and intricate history, you need to visit the National Museum of Beirut. It has a collection of over 100,000 artefacts, which is constantly being added to. This museum is one of the richest in the Middle East. It has incredible mosaics, valuable sarcophagi including the sarcophagus of King Ahiram and excavated objects.

Open time

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Nicolas Sursock Museum

 4.6/5

1284 reviews

Frequent museum housed in a beautiful old house owned by Nikola Sursok. According to his will, after his death, the house was turned into a museum. There are more than 5000 exhibits on display and a large library. The museum features both antique items and examples of modern art. Of greatest interest are an ancient jug, the first printed Koran and an ancient Bible.

Open time

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Martyrs' Square

 4.5/5

2317 reviews

It is the heart of old Beirut. Many sights are centred around it, and the adjoining streets hold many secrets and a long history. There are even a few Christian shrines among the buildings. As darkness falls, the square becomes the centre of Beirut’s nightlife. There are many cafes and bars that are favoured by the locals.

Open time

Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours

Martyrs' Square

 4.5/5

2317 reviews

Back in the 1930s, a monument to the Lebanese who died fighting the Turkish occupiers was erected in the square. Since then, the square has been named after them. During the war, it was also the site of the so-called Green Line, which divided Beirut into two parts: Muslim and Christian. Near the square is the beautiful Mohammed Al-Amin Mosque.

Open time

Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours

Mohammad Al Amin Mosque

 4.7/5

2735 reviews

The mosque was built for 5 years, from 2002 to 2007 near Martyrs Square by Prime Minister Rafiq Hariri. After his death, he was buried next to it. The mosque covers an area of over 10,000 square kilometres. The yellow stones of the walls contrast with the blue dome with gold features. It is a masterpiece of Beirut’s religious architecture. Locals hold political demonstrations near it.

Open time

St. Paul Greek Melkite Basilica

 4.9/5

189 reviews

The temple is located at the foot of Mount Harissa, which houses a statue of the Virgin Mary. It was built in 1962. It is one of the most beautiful buildings in Lebanon, a striking example of Byzantine architecture. Divine service in the temple is conducted according to the Byzantine rite, and it belongs to the Melkite Greek Catholic Church. The cathedral has an unusual appearance and rich decoration.

Open time

Mseilha Fort

 4.4/5

628 reviews

North of the town of Batroun is a medieval fortification, Fort Mseyla. It rises on a long and narrow limestone terrace above the Nahr el-Yauz River. The fort was built by Emir Fakhruddin II in the XVII century. The fort is guarded by walls 1.5 – 2 metres thick made of sandstone. You can enter the fortress through the gate, inside it there is a triangular courtyard and entrance to the towers.

Open time

Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sunday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Sidon Sea Castle

 4.3/5

3555 reviews

The fortress is located on the Mediterranean coast of Lebanon. In the past, it protected the port of Sidon, which was once a thriving city. The surviving fortifications were built in the 13th century by the Crusaders. Tourists can explore the massive defence towers of the fortress. In the western tower, which is better preserved, you can see the remains of ancient weapons.

Open time

Tripoli Citadel

 4.5/5

2104 reviews

The Citadel of Raymund de Saint-Gilles is located in the city of Tripoli. It is named after the Count of Toulouse, commander of the Crusaders. He began building it on a hilltop in 1103 to defend it from attacks. It is a powerful structure that is 140 metres long and 70 wide. Besides giving a great insight into the historical events of Lebanon, the fortress offers beautiful views.

Open time

Moussa Castle

 4.4/5

2247 reviews

Moussa’s castle is called the fortress of love. It was built by a poor villager for his beloved. He started construction at the age of 14 and continued building the castle for the next 25 years. The saddest thing is that he never won the heart of his beloved, but he gained the great love of the locals. Excursions around the castle are conducted by Moussa himself. He shares his story with everyone.

Open time

Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Nahr El Kalb

 4.1/5

233 reviews

The river got its name from a legend about a dog guarding the banks. But it is not only interesting. Many military campaigns and the history of Lebanon have taken place along it, which is why you can see many commemorative plaques. This is an important landmark of the country. It carries information about momentous events that influenced the future of the country.

Shouf Cedars

 4.9/5

171 reviews

It is Lebanon’s largest nature reserve. Its area is 550 km², which is about 5% of the country’s total land area. The main protected value of the reserve is the Lebanese cedar. Some of them are up to 2,000 years old. There are 32 species of mammals and about 200 species of birds living in the reserve. Not far from the reserve are the fortresses of Kab Ilias and Kalat Ninha.

Open time

Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Beqaa Valley

 4.3/5

102 reviews

The valley is located in the east of Lebanon, 30 kilometres from Beirut. It is an important agricultural area that lies between the Lebanon and Antilivan mountain ranges. The largest towns in the valley are Zahre and Bekaa. There are many interesting places in the valley. The temple complex located in its territory is listed as a UNESCO heritage site. The valley also gained a sad fame after the Lebanon War.

Kadisha Valley

 4.8/5

174 reviews

It is a valley located in the districts of Bishir and Zgharta. Its name translates as “Sacred”. This is because it was once home to many Christian shrines and a monastic community. Because of this, it is protected by UNESCO as one of the earliest sites of monastic settlements.

Pigeon Rocks

 4.5/5

7119 reviews

It is a natural wonder of Beirut. The Pigeon Rocks are two small islands that lie near the shore in the Mediterranean Sea. They got their name because of the large number of pigeons that have been nesting here for hundreds of years. This place will be interesting for photographers. At sunset you can take beautiful pictures sitting in a cosy restaurant on the shore.

Open time

Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours

Casino du Liban

 4.2/5

2409 reviews

Among the many cafés, restaurants and bars, shops and hotels near the bay of Junia, stands the huge “Casino du Liban”. It was opened in 1959. Its area is 34 thousand square metres. It is a colourful tourist attraction with more than 60 poker tables, roulette and 400 slot machines, a showroom and five restaurants.

Open time

Monday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 AM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 AM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 AM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 AM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 AM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 AM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 AM

Mediterranean Sea Lines

 0/5

The Mediterranean has a wide variety of resorts and attracts a huge number of tourists every year. Lebanon has 225 kilometres of coastline, the main resorts of which are Beirut, Sidon, Nabatea, Tripoli and Tyre. The coast of the latter is considered the cleanest. Most of the beaches are paid, but the price includes sunbeds, umbrellas, showers and even visits to cafes.

Open time

Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Sunday: Closed

Baatara Gorge Waterfall

 4.6/5

570 reviews

Baatara Falls is located near the town of Tannorin. It was discovered in 1953 by explorer Henry Koif. Its name translates as “Cave of Three Bridges”. It was given to the waterfall because of the three caves through which its waters pass. The height of the waterfall is 225 metres, which makes it very spectacular, powerful and picturesque. The waterfall is a popular tourist attraction.