Introducing Lebanon
Coolly combining the ancient with the ultramodern, Lebanon is one of the most captivating countries in the Middle East. From the Phoenician findings of Tyre (Sour) and Roman Baalbek's tremendous temple to Beirut's BO18 and Bernard Khoury's modern movement, the span of Lebanon's history leaves many visitors spinning. Tripoli (Trablous) is considered to have the best souk in the country and is famous for its Mamluk architecture. It's well equipped with a taste of modernity as well; Jounieh, formerly a sleepy fishing village, is a town alive with nightclubs and glitz on summer weekends.
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With all of the Middle East's best bits - warm and welcoming people, mind-blowing history and considerable culture, Lebanon is also the antithesis of many people's imaginings of the Middle East: mostly mountainous with skiing to boot, it's also laid-back, liberal and fun. While Beirut is fast becoming the region's party place, Lebanon is working hard to recapture its crown as the 'Paris of the Orient'.
The rejuvenation of the Beirut Central District is one of the largest, most ambitious urban redevelopment projects ever undertaken. Travellers will find the excitement surrounding this and other developments and designs palpable - and very infectious.
Finally, Lebanon's cuisine is considered the richest of the region. From hummus to hommard (lobster), you'll dine like a king. With legendary sights, hospitality, food and nightlife, what more could a traveller want?
Travel Alert: The security situation in southern Lebanon is dangerous for travellers. Check out Safe Travel or the Thorn Tree travel forum for advice from travellers.
Last updated: Oct 26, 2009
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Recent posts
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RE: Sticky post suggested: Syria travel warning
by gode 13 September 2011
So as I promised, I would try to shortly summarize my experiences with traveling through Syria to Lebanon, then going to and staying in…
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RE: Americans traveling in Lebanon
by JQA550 13 September 2011
I had a huge headache figuring out how to get permission to visit the south and where exactly one must request permission. So, to save…
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Re: Travelling to Sabra and Shatila refugee camps, and to the south of Lebanon
by JQA550 13 September 2011
I had a huge headache figuring out how to get permission to visit the south and where exactly one must request permission. So, to save…
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Lebanon
Things to do
- All things to do (183)
- Activities (17)
- Entertainment (27)
- Restaurants (50)
- Shopping (22)
- Sights (64)
- Tours (3)
Make it happen
Our Top Picks For Lebanon
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1 Baalbek
Transport yourself back to the ‘Sun City’ of the ancient world, including one of Rome's most lavish temples, and study its debauched past
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2 Aanjar
Amble down the main street of the majestic remains of the Middle East's only Umayyad fortified city
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3 Beirut
Explore the Corniche, then discover the clubs of Beirut and find out why it's the Middle East's most vibrant capital
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4 Byblos
Wander the impressive archaeological remains knowing that a seafood feast awaits at a charming ancient harbour
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5 Tripoli
Sample Tripoli's famous sweets and then walk off the calories exploring the medieval souqs
Fast Facts about Lebanon
- Money
Lebanese lira (LL) - known locally as the 'Lebanese pound'; US$1 = LL1502; €1 = LL1774
- Official name:
Republic of Lebanon
- Area
10, 400 sq km
- Population
4.4 million
- Country code
961
- Language
Arabic
- Capital
Our favourite Lebanon Blogs (beta)
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Fishing boats
Blog: ginger beirut - 21 January 2012
I love the guy in the white vest and shorts. I bet he has a moustache. It was a lot warmer a couple of weeks ago when I took this shot. Looking at it now makes me shiver.
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A mezze just for me?
Blog: ginger beirut - 17 January 2012
I love having visitors here. It’s a wonderful thing to share Lebanon with them, especially when they are first-time visitors with so many surprises in store. Apart from helping them discover a fantastic new country, I also enjoy the whiff of a former home they bring with them. It has been over ten years since [...]
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Hard as nails
Blog: ginger beirut - 17 January 2012
We thought we were quite brave going up in the cable car to Harissa with a baby. This tin bucket looks scarier. These guys are just fearless. And here’s what they are working on. The modern church behind the monument-chapel is said to have been designed as a cross between a cedar and a Phoenician [...]
