Beirut, Lebanon 2 Day Itinerary

48 Hours in Beirut: A Two-Day Itinerary

This itinerary balances historical exploration with the modern charm of Beirut. It’s just a suggestion, feel free to tailor it to your interests!

Day 1: Exploring Ancient and Modern Beirut

  • Morning: Start your day with a delicious Lebanese breakfast at Tawlet (traditional) or The Counter (modern) in Mar Mikhael.

    • Enjoy the bustling Souk el-Tayeb, a popular restaurant showcasing authentic, traditional cuisine.
    • Explore the historic Gemmayzeh district, known for its charming cafes, nightlife, and beautiful architecture. Enjoy a coffee and a light breakfast at one of the many quaint cafes in the morning, grab a Lebanese lunch at a local “mezzeh” restaurant, and then stroll through the vibrant streets, checking out the street art, independent boutiques, and historic buildings.

  • Afternoon:

    • Immerse yourself in history with a visit to the National Museum of Beirut, showcasing artifacts from Lebanon’s rich past dating back to prehistoric times.
    • Afterwards, explore the Roman Baths and the Beirut Souks, a modern shopping complex built on top of ancient Roman ruins.

  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Lebanese dinner at Al-Wadi Restaurant, known for its delicious and authentic dishes in a charming setting.

  • Optional Activities:

    • Explore the Mohammad Al Amin Mosque (known as the “Blue Mosque” due to its striking blue dome and minarets)
    • Wander through the Pigeon Rocks, massive limestone formations jutting out of the sea, and enjoy the sunset view.

  • Things to know:

    • Beirut is a city with a rich and complex history. Be prepared to be amazed by the blend of ancient civilizations and modern life!
    • The Lebanese love “mezzes” (small plates of shared food) so you’ll be enjoying lots of delicious small dishes throughout your stay.

  • Things to see:

    • Beirut Souks: This vibrant historical and modern shopping destination is a must-see. Explore the boutiques, cafes, and restaurants while admiring the beautifully preserved architecture.
    • National Museum of Beirut: Learn about Lebanon’s history through stunning artifacts, from ancient pottery to Roman mosaics.
    • Gemmayze District: Discover charming streets with unique shops and art galleries. Enjoy a traditional Lebanese meal and experience the local cuisine.

Day 2: Embrace the Culture and Embrace the View

  • Morning: Visit the Mohammad Al Amin Mosque, a magnificent architectural feat and one of Beirut’s most iconic landmarks.
  • Afternoon: Explore Gemmayze (enjoy the vibrant street life, cafes, and shops) and enjoy a traditional Lebanese lunch at Tawlet.
  • Evening: Explore the Beirut Souks and take in the history of the area.

Optional Activities:

  • Take a cooking class: Learn to prepare delicious dishes like hummus and tabbouleh from a local chef and savor the flavors of Lebanon while enjoying the company of other travelers.

  • Enjoy the nightlife: Experience the bustling nightlife of Beirut by visiting a rooftop bar or attending a concert or event.

  • Explore the Jeita Grotto: A natural wonder just outside of Beirut, these stunning limestone caves offer a breathtaking view and are a popular destination for tourists.

Things to know:

  • Downtown Beirut (Beirut Central District) is a vibrant mix of the old and new.
  • The National Museum of Beirut website can be found here: https://www.jeitabakery.com/
  • Pigeon Rocks: Located in Beirut, the Jeita Grotto is a popular tourist destination for its beautiful formations and underground river tours.

Transportation:

  • Day 1:

    • Public Transportation: Utilize Beirut’s public transport system (buses, taxis) or consider using a ride-sharing app like Careem or Uber.

  • Transportation Tips:

    • Be prepared for traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.
    • Public transportation in Beirut is affordable and relatively efficient, but be aware that schedules can be unreliable.
    • Taxis are readily available, but make sure to negotiate the fare beforehand, as they often don’t use meters.

Things to consider:

  • Day & Nightlife:

Beirut has a vibrant nightlife scene, so if you’re interested in experiencing it, consider staying near the city center.

  • Safety: Lebanon is generally safe for tourists, but be aware of your surroundings and exercise caution when traveling in unfamiliar areas.

Things to see and do:

  • Day 2:

    • National Museum: The National Museum of Beirut is open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.

  • Currency:

The Lebanese Pound (LL) is the official currency, but US dollars are widely accepted.

  • Culture: Lebanon has a rich and diverse culture. Explore the ancient ruins and explore the vibrant art scene of Beirut.

  • Things to enjoy:

Beirut’s nightlife is legendary!

  • Language:

Arabic is the official language of Lebanon, but French and English are also commonly spoken.

Accommodation:

Consider staying in a boutique hotel in Gemmaze, like:

  • The Smallville Hotel & Suites: Offers modern accommodations with stunning views of the city or the sea.

  • Le Gray, Beirut: A luxurious hotel located in the heart of Beirut’s downtown area.

  • The Phoenicia Hotel: A historic hotel with a beautiful location overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

Food and Drink:

  • Enjoy Lebanese cuisine: Be sure to try some local dishes like Kibbeh (meatballs made with bulgur wheat), Hummus, Falafel, Tabbouleh, and Manakish.
  • Explore Lebanese cafes: Beirut has a fantastic cafe culture, with many charming spots offering delicious food and coffee.

Food & Drink Recommendations:

  • The Four Seasons Hotel: Offers a luxurious dining experience at its rooftop restaurant, “The Roof”, with stunning views of the city and Mediterranean Sea.

  • The Grand Cafe: Enjoy traditional Lebanese dishes and coffee in a beautiful setting.

  • Souk el-Tayeb: This popular spot offers fresh food stalls and restaurants featuring authentic local cuisine.

  • Mar Mikhael’s cafes: Explore the vibrant “mezzes” culture at one of the many restaurants in this bustling neighborhood.

Things to do:

  • Explore the Jeita Grotto: A natural wonder with two interconnected limestone caves, the “Grand Cafe” and the “Lower Cave”, offering a unique experience for tourists.
  • Discover the history of Beirut: Visit the ancient Roman ruins within the city walls, explore the vibrant nightlife

Enjoyment Tips:

  • Explore the National Museum:

Enjoy the museum’s extensive collection of artifacts, including a dedicated section to the archaeological site it was built upon.

  • Embrace the street art scene:

Wander through Beirut and discover the colorful murals that adorn the walls of its buildings.

  • Gemmayze district:

Experience the vibrant nightlife and explore the cafes and bars in this historic district, which is popular with tourists.

  • Explore the city’s vibrant atmosphere:

Visit the National Museum of Beirut, a museum showcasing Lebanon’s rich cultural heritage.

  • Enjoy a traditional Lebanese meal:

Experience the culinary delights of Lebanese cuisine.

  • “Tastes of Lebanon” experience:

Try different types of “mezzes,” small plates of food that are traditionally shared among diners.

Things to note:

  • Currency: The Lebanese Pound (LL) is the official currency, but US dollars are widely accepted. Transportation:

Beirut’s traffic can be a challenge for visitors unfamiliar with the city.

Safety:

While Beirut is generally safe for tourists, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and follow safety precautions.

  • Currency:

Beirut’s economy has experienced instability recently, so confirm the current exchange rates.

  • Culture:

Explore the variety of Lebanese experiences, from the vibrant nightlife to the historical sites and vibrant culture.

  • Transportation:

Use “Taste of Beirut” for a unique dining experience with a local chef.

Cultural Experiences:

  • Beirut Heritage Tour:

Take in the history of the city through its architecture and landmarks.

  • Explore the Gemita Grotto: The National Museum of Beirut offers guided tours, workshops, and cultural events.

  • Street Food Tour:

Experience the bustling streets of Beirut and sample local delicacies.

Safety Tips:

  • Stay in well-lit and populated areas: Especially at night.

  • Be mindful of personal belongings: Keep your valuables secure and close at hand.

  • Use common sense: Avoid walking alone in dark or deserted areas, and be aware of scams and pickpockets.

Other Things to Consider:

  • Transportation:

Download a ride-sharing app like Careem or Uber for easy and safe transportation around the city.

  • Safety: Be cautious when using public transport, as it’s not always the safest option.
  • Food & Drinks:

Keep in mind that “mezzes” are often shared meals, so be prepared for a communal dining experience!

  • Language:

Learn some basic Arabic phrases to help you communicate with locals.

  • Safety:

Always carry cash in US dollars and consider using a safe money belt or pouch.

  • Food: Enjoy the variety of “mezzes” available at traditional Lebanese restaurants, including dishes like hummus, baba ghanoush, tabbouleh, falafel, and fattoush.

  • Activities: Try local Lebanese cuisine in a communal setting, a common practice for locals.

  • Culture:

Experience the vibrant Gemmayzeh neighborhood, known for its nightlife and diverse culinary offerings.

  • Safety:

Be careful when using ATMs as they are sometimes targeted by criminals. Use secure ATMs located inside banks or well-lit and monitored areas.

Things to consider:

  • Dress Code: While the dress code in Lebanon is generally more relaxed than in other Arab countries, it’s still a good idea to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

  • Respect:

Remember to be respectful of local customs and traditions.

  • Alcohol:

The vibrant nightlife scene in Beirut is a blend of traditional and modern venues.

Enjoy the variety: Explore different “cafes” (bars) and their unique offerings, from rooftop bars with stunning views to cozy pubs with live music.

Things to remember:

  • Be aware that alcohol consumption can be controversial in some Arab countries.

  • Lebanon is a predominantly Muslim country, but it’s important to remember that it’s also a diverse society. While drinking is not prohibited in Lebanon, it’s still best to respect the fact that alcohol is not part of their everyday culture.

  • Safety: Be sure to drink responsibly and be aware of your surroundings as you enjoy the nightlife.

  • Remember to stay hydrated, especially when consuming alcohol.

Alcohol: Enjoy a “mezzeh” experience with a glass of Lebanese wine or arak (a strong alcoholic drink) for a unique taste of local culture.

Safety:

  • Beirut’s Vibrant Nightlife Scene:

Visit the “Gemmayzeh” area, which is renowned for its vibrant nightlife.

Be aware that it is crucial to prioritize safety while exploring.

  • Travel Tips: Stay in well-lit and populated areas of the city.

Avoid walking alone at night.

  • Safety (continued):
  • Drink responsibly:

Enjoy the vibrant nightlife, but remember to drink in moderation.

  • Respect local customs: Dress code is not strict, but dress respectfully when visiting religious sites. Be mindful of cultural sensitivities and norms.

  • Food & Drinks: Consider bringing a gift for your host or a tip for the restaurant staff.

  • Try the “cafes”:

Be aware of the availability and safety of these establishments.

  • Transportation:

Enjoy the variety of Lebanese restaurants and cafes in Beirut, and remember to be mindful of personal belongings while enjoying the sights and sounds of the city’s nightlife. Remember:

  • Drink responsibly (continued)

  • Be respectful: Always be polite and respectful to locals, especially women.

  • Stay safe:

  • Avoid displaying large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry.

  • Dress comfortably for the warm weather, but remember that clothing is often a signifier of cultural respect.

  • Be mindful of local religious practices and customs when choosing a restaurant.

  • Research what types of food are typically served in traditional “cafes” and the common etiquette surrounding their consumption.

  • Be prepared:

  • Respecting local customs:

  • Remember: Always be aware of the local laws and regulations.

  • Be mindful of your surroundings:

Some “cafes” might not serve alcohol due to religious restrictions, so check before you go.

  • Travel Etiquette: Respect the fact that some restaurants in Beirut may not serve alcohol**.

  • Safety:

Beirut is a vibrant city with a rich culture and history, and it’s important to be respectful of both.

  • Respect Dress Codes:

Avoid wearing clothing that is overly revealing or offensive.

  • Stay aware of your surroundings, especially when drinking, as the presence of alcohol may influence judgment and behavior.

  • Be mindful of cultural sensitivities: Remember to respect local customs and traditions.

  • “Cafes” are a unique part of Lebanese culture, so enjoy them responsibly!

Important:

Remember that these are just general guidelines. Always be respectful of local laws and customs when traveling, and research the specific area you’re visiting for any additional safety precautions. For further information on travel advisories and safety recommendations for Beirut, it is best to consult official sources such as:

Remember: Be aware of potential travel risks and follow local advice.

Stay Safe:

  • Beirut is a safe city for tourists, but it’s important to research any specific safety concerns or warnings before traveling.

  • Travel Etiquette:

Respect the fact that the city is recovering from a period of instability.

  • Always be aware of your surroundings and respect local customs.

Dress code: When visiting “cafes” (restaurants) in Beirut, it’s important to be respectful of the culture and dress appropriately.

Travel Tips:

  • Carry a small amount of cash for petty expenses.

  • Be open-minded and willing to learn about Lebanese culture.

Enjoy the vibrant nightlife by trying local “cafes” and experiencing their unique ambiance.

  • Remember:

Stay in well-lit and populated areas,

Avoid:

  • Being overly loud or boisterous.
  • Making a scene.
  • Showing disrespect for local customs

Enjoy:

  • The diverse experiences the city has to offer.

This is just a starting point. You can adjust your itinerary based on your interests and time constraints.

Remember, a vibrant nightlife doesn’t necessarily mean unsafe.

Have fun exploring Beirut!