The Best Things to See and Do in Lebanon
Lebanon is a fascinating country, with a deep history and a wealth of sights to explore. From the dramatic Jeita Grotto to the ancient ruins of Baalbek and Anjar, and the local winemaking culture of Ksara Winery to the stunning views from the Teleferique Aerial Cableway and the ancient shopping traditions of Byblos Souq, there's something for everyone here. So join us as we take you on an epic journey through the most beautiful parts of Lebanon!
lebanon essentials
Lebanon is a small country located in the Middle East, bordered by Syria to the north and east, and Israel to the south. It is home to a wide variety of cultures, religions, and languages, making it a fascinating and unique place to explore. It is also known for its stunning natural landscapes, from the snow-capped mountains of the north to the stunning Mediterranean coastline.
The country has a long and rich history, and is home to some of the oldest archaeological sites in the world, including the ruins of Baalbek and Anjar. The country is also known for its vibrant culture, with a thriving music and art scene, and a wide variety of traditional foods and drinks. In short, Lebanon is a country that has something to offer everyone, whether they're looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an exciting journey through its culture and history.
Jeita Grotto
The Jeita Grotto is one of the most beautiful and unique natural wonders in Lebanon. Located in the Nahr al-Kalb valley, it is made up of two separate caves, each with its own unique beauty. The upper cave is home to impressive stalactites and stalagmites, as well as a stunning underground lake. The lower cave is home to a series of magnificent galleries and is filled with the sound of rushing water.
We took a boat ride through the lower cave which was a highlight and explored the upper cave on foot, taking in the unique sights and sounds of this natural wonder.
Baalbek
Located in the Bekaa Valley, Baalbek is one of the most impressive and well-preserved ancient sites in Lebanon. It was once home to the temple complex of Heliopolis and is now home to some of the largest and most impressive Roman ruins in the world.
The ruins of Baalbek are a popular tourist attraction and are easily accessible from Beirut. Visitors can explore the impressive temples and take in the stunning views of the surrounding valley. There are also two museums located at the site, which provide an insight into the history and culture of the ancient city.
Anjar
The ancient city of Anjar is located in the Bekaa Valley, near Baalbek. It was founded in the 8th Century by the Umayyad Caliph and was once a thriving centre of commerce and culture. Today, it is home to some of the most impressive ruins of an Umayyad city in the world.
Anjar is a popular tourist destination and is easily accessible from Beirut. Visitors can explore the ruins of the city, take in the stunning views of the surrounding valley and visit the two museums located here. The city also offers a variety of restaurants, shops and cafes, making it an ideal day trip destination.
Ksara Winery
Ksara Winery is located in the Beqaa Valley and is home to one of the oldest and most renowned wineries in Lebanon. The winery produces a wide variety of wines, from the dry and fruity reds to the sweet and creamy whites.
Ksara Winery is a popular tourist attraction and is easily accessible from Beirut. Visitors can take a tour of the winery and learn about the history and production process of the wines. A series of caves run underneath the winery giving the perfect humidity and temperature to store the wine. You can also sample some of the wines and purchase bottles to take home.
Teleferique Aerial Cableway - Harissa to Jounieh
The Teleferique Aerial Cableway is a popular tourist attraction located in the Beqaa Valley. It is a cable car system that takes visitors on a stunning journey over the valley, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
The Teleferique Aerial Cableway is easily accessible from Beirut and is a must-see for anyone visiting Lebanon. The journey offers stunning views of the valley and a glimpse into the rural life of the region. It is also a great way to take in the beauty of the country without having to do any strenuous walking.
This is often included in organised day tours form Beirut where you will be dropped off a the top and collected again at the bottom.
Byblos
Byblos is an ancient city located on the Mediterranean coast of Lebanon. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and is home to some of the most important archaeological sites in the country.
Byblos is a popular tourist destination and is easily accessible from Beirut. Visitors can explore the ruins of the ancient city and visit the museums and galleries located here. The city is also home to a vibrant cultural scene, with a variety of cafes, restaurants and shops.
The Byblos Souq is one of the oldest and most popular shopping destinations in Lebanon. Located in the heart of the old city, it is a bustling marketplace filled with traditional crafts, souvenirs and food.
The Byblos Souq is a great place to explore the traditional shopping culture of Lebanon. Visitors can browse the stalls and find unique souvenirs, sample traditional food and drinks, and watch the artisans at work. It is also a great place to meet locals and get a glimpse into their day-to-day life.
Our Thoughts
Lebanon is a complex country that at times can be difficult to travel though, however it’s worth the power cuts and complicated currency situations for the views, culture and cuisine this small country has to offer. We have been asked so many times “what did you love about Lebanon” and the simple answer to that is, the people. The Lebanese people are welcoming, friendly and resilient, so I urge you when travelling through the country to meet and speak with as many people as you can, learn their story and experience the rich culture. We are looking forward to the next time we can visit Lebanon.
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