Byblos

A Journey Through Time: The Ultimate Tourist Guide to Byblos, Lebanon

Byblos, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, is a captivating journey into history. Located on the coast just north of Beirut, this charming UNESCO World Heritage Site offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore ancient ruins alongside vibrant modern life.

Ancient History:

  • Byblos: The Cradle of Civilization: Byblos, known as “Jbeil” in Arabic, is steeped in history. Archaeological evidence suggests it was inhabited as early as 7000 BC, making it a historical gem with remnants from various civilizations and eras.

Ancient Sites:

  • Byblos Archaeological Site: Explore the impressive ruins of this Phoenician city, including the Temple of Baal Sheman, the Crusader castle, and the ancient Roman harbor. Wander through history as you walk among the ancient columns, imagine the bustling marketplace, and marvel at the remnants of past empires.
    • Highlights:
      • The Royal Necropolis (Byblos Necropolis): This is a must-see for any history buff. Dating back to the Roman period, the Royal Necropolis features impressive tombs carved into the rock, some with intricate decorations and inscriptions. The sheer age and historical significance of these structures are awe-inspiring, offering glimpses into ancient burial practices and the lives of those who came before us.
      • The Crusader Castle: Built in the 12th century, this well-preserved castle provides a fascinating insight into medieval military architecture. Climb its ramparts for stunning views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.

Modern Byblos:

  • Byblos Old Town: This charming area is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets and ancient buildings, with the Roman ruins forming a backdrop to the quaint atmosphere.
  • The Byblos Marina: A beautiful spot to relax and enjoy the views, or take a boat trip out into the bay.
  • The Souks (Markets): Wander through the vibrant souks of Byblos, where you can find souvenirs, spices, handicrafts, and local delicacies.

Exploring Byblos: What to Do

Byblos offers a captivating blend of ancient history and modern charm, with plenty for tourists to see and do:

  • Explore the Ancient Ruins: The city’s namesake, the Crusader Castle is a stunning example of medieval architecture.

  • Wander Through the Old Souks: These narrow alleys are full of shops selling traditional Lebanese crafts, souvenirs, and antiques. Find unique treasures like hand-woven carpets, intricate silver jewelry, or even ancient artifacts (always ensure you purchase from reputable dealers).

  • Enjoy the Beaches: With its beautiful coastline overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, Byblos boasts several sandy beaches perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

  • Wander through the Old Town: Explore charming cafes, restaurants, and boutiques nestled within the ancient walls of the city.

Where to Stay in Byblos:

For those seeking a luxurious stay, there are many hotels and resorts in Byblos offering stunning views and comfortable accommodations.

  • Budget-Friendly Options:

    • Byblos Hostel: Experience the vibrant hostel scene with affordable dorm rooms and a social atmosphere.

  • Boutique Hotels: Enjoy a charming and personalized experience at one of the boutique hotels in the historical city center, often housed in beautifully restored ancient buildings.

  • Luxury Hotels:

    • The Byblos Byblos Hotel: A historic hotel offering modern amenities.

  • Boutique Hotels:

    • Byblos Sur Mer: Located right on the beach, this hotel offers luxurious rooms with sea views and private access to the water.
    • Phoenicia Hotel: Situated in a charming 19th-century building, this boutique hotel provides a unique and historic stay.

Historical Sites to Explore:

  • Byblos Old Town: This ancient city has been inhabited for over 7,000 years. It’s a fascinating place to explore with its historical buildings, churches, and mosques. Wander through the narrow streets and discover the history of the Phoenicians, Romans, and Crusaders that have all shaped this ancient port town.**

  • The Crusader Castle: This historic fortress offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding mountains.

  • The Phoenician Temples: Explore the ruins of the ancient temples and imagine the rituals and ceremonies that took place there.

  • The Roman Ruins: Discover the remnants of a Roman city, including the Roman Hippodrome and Roman Baths.

Where to Eat in Byblos:

  • Sample Lebanese Cuisine: Byblos has an abundance of restaurants serving delicious local dishes like kibbeh, hummus, and falafel.

  • Enjoy Fresh Seafood: Being a coastal town, you can find amazing fresh seafood at the many cafes and restaurants along the harbor.

  • Dine with a View: Many restaurants in Byblos boast stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Restaurants in Byblos:

  • The Old Souk: This charming area offers a variety of restaurants from traditional Lebanese eateries to modern cafes.

  • Byblos Port:

  • Byblos Old Town Restaurants:

    • Restaurant by the Sea:
      • Cuisine: Lebanese seafood specialties.
      • Recommendations: Grilled fish platters, seafood mezze (appetizers) like calamari and octopus salad, fresh salads and seafood dishes.

  • The Byblos Market:

    • Atmosphere:

Vibrant and bustling with the sights, smells, and sounds of daily life.

Food Experiences:

  • Seafood Feasts: Indulge in fresh catches at the charming harborside restaurants.

  • Byblos Seafood Market: Try “Mezze” (Lebanese appetizers) and seafood cooked on the spot.

  • The Old Souk: A labyrinth of alleys brimming with history, but also a great place to find local treats like fresh fruit and vegetables, baklava, and knafeh.

Getting Around Byblos:

  • Explore on Foot:

Byblos is a compact city, making it easily walkable.

  • Use Taxis: Taxis are readily available in the town for transportation within Byblos and to nearby attractions.

  • Public Transportation: While walking is ideal for exploring the Old Town, buses are an option for reaching other parts of Lebanon.

Cultural Experiences:

  • Byblos Archaeological Site: Explore the ruins of a Roman city and learn about the ancient Phoenician civilization that thrived here centuries ago.
  • The Byblos Museum: Discover artifacts from the ancient and medieval periods of Byblos.

Beyond the Ruins:

  • Explore the Old Town: The Old Town is filled with cafes, restaurants, shops, and museums, all within a short walk of each other.

  • Take a Boat Trip: Enjoy the beauty of the Mediterranean Sea and explore the historic harbor.

  • Experience the Local Culture: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Byblos by visiting the local markets and souks.

  • Stroll along the Harbour: Enjoy the bustling atmosphere of the ancient harbor with its restaurants, cafes and shops.

Travel Tips for Your Visit to Byblos:

  • Best time to visit: Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer pleasant weather in Byblos.
  • Language: Arabic is the official language, but French is also widely spoken.

Many people speak English.

  • Currency: The Lebanese Pound (LBP) is the official currency, but US dollars are generally accepted.

  • Accommodation:

Look for charming guesthouses or hotels within the Old Town for a unique and immersive experience.

  • Food:

Enjoy fresh seafood at the harborside restaurants.

  • Respect local customs: Be mindful of local traditions and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Learn about the history:

Visit the Byblos Archaeological Site and the Byblos Museum to explore the city’s rich past.

  • Haggle in the souks: Prices are often negotiable, especially for souvenirs.

  • Bargain politely but confidently.

  • Experience the local market: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the “Souk” (marketplace) and enjoy traditional Lebanese food and snacks.

  • Visit during the cooler months:

The weather is more pleasant for sightseeing in March, April, May, September, October, and November.

  • Explore the beaches: Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or fishing at one of the beaches along the Mediterranean coast.
  • Learn about the ancient Phoenician civilization: The Byblos Museum houses artifacts from this ancient period, offering a glimpse into their daily life.

Food for Thought:

This guide provides a starting point for your journey to Byblos.

Remember that exploring is all about discovery and embracing the unexpected.

So let yourself be swept away by the charm of Byblos, and don’t hesitate to ask locals for recommendations on the best places to eat and experience the local culture.

Exploring the Souks:

The ancient souks are a great place to explore the local culture.

You can find everything from fresh produce to handcrafted souvenirs and traditional Lebanese sweets.

  • Souk al-Taybeh (Market of Goodness): A popular spot for souvenirs, delicious Lebanese food, and a chance to meet local artisans.

  • Local Cafes: Explore the ancient city’s charm while enjoying a coffee break at one of the charming cafes in Byblos.

The ancient ruins are a testament to the city’s rich history.

  • Stroll along the harbor: Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and the bustling activity of the “Byblos Souk” (market) while admiring the beautiful Mediterranean coastline.

  • Discover the history: Immerse yourself in the fascinating story of Byblos, from its ancient Phoenician origins to its medieval Crusader past.

Experience the Beaches:

  • Sunset strolls on the beach: Enjoy the beauty of the sunset over the Mediterranean Sea.
  • Enjoy the beaches and their activities: Explore the beautiful beaches of Byblos and enjoy local experiences like fresh produce, seafood, and a variety of restaurants and shops.

The Old Town: A Historical Journey

  • Byblos is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.

Exploring its history can be done through the ancient streets and buildings.

  • Visit the Byblos Archaeological Site: Explore the ruins from centuries past, including the Roman harbor and Crusader-era structures.

Beyond the Walls:

  • Byblos is a vibrant city with a rich history.

  • Explore the Old City: Discover the charm of the ancient city, including its historic harbor and charming shops.

  • The best time to visit Byblos:

Enjoy the beaches during the cooler months for a pleasant experience.

The Best Beaches in Byblos:

The Byblos Market

  • A cultural hub: Immerse yourself in the Old Town’s vibrant atmosphere, and enjoy traditional Lebanese food like hummus, tabbouleh, and falafel.

Things to Remember:

  • Respect local customs: Dress modestly and follow any cultural guidelines for visiting the “Old City”

  • Bargaining is expected: Enjoy the experience of the market and don’t be afraid to haggle.

  • Haggling Tips:

Research average prices for souvenirs beforehand. Start by offering a price significantly lower than the asking price. Be polite but firm in your negotiations. Remember, it’s all part of the fun!

Enjoy a variety of activities:

Explore Byblos’ rich history and vibrant culture:

  • Haggling: Be prepared to negotiate for better prices, especially at the local markets.

The best time to visit Byblos is in the spring or fall.

During the summer months (June-August), the weather can be very hot and humid. *

Consider the “Old Souk” experience:

  • Exploring the “Souk”:

Walk through the bustling streets and alleys of the Old Town to explore the local markets. Enjoy a coffee break at one of the charming cafes in Byblos while exploring the charming atmosphere.

Remember:

The Best Time for a Beach Trip:

Is the weather important?

Consider visiting:

During the cooler months, enjoy a leisurely walk through the ancient streets and explore the history of Byblos. Visit the “Souk” for traditional Lebanese goods and experiences.

Enjoy the beaches with pleasant weather:

Remember to be respectful:

Dress modestly, avoid littering, and follow any local guidelines.

Explore the Old Town and its unique shops:

Enjoy the local “souks” (markets) where you can find handmade goods and traditional crafts. Consider:

Hand-woven carpets, textiles, and pottery

The harbor:

Explore the charming restaurants and cafes overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

The Harbor Markets:

For a more authentic experience:

Try making your own “mezzes” (small plates of appetizers) using traditional recipes and ingredients. Visit the local markets in Byblos for fresh produce, seafood, and a taste of Lebanese culture. Enjoy the unique atmosphere!