Beirut

Beirut, one of the world's oldest cities, has been inhabited for over 5,000 years and was a significant Phoenician city-state (see Berytus). Its earliest recorded mention appears in the Amarna letters from Egypt's New Kingdom, dating back to the 14th century BC. The city is built on two hills, Al-Achrafiyeh (East Beirut) and Al-Musaytibeh (West Beirut), extending into the sea to form a triangular peninsula.

Rich in history, culture, and delicious cuisine, Beirut offers plenty to explore. Below, we've compiled a list of top activities, accommodations, restaurants, and bars to check out.

Where to stay

We suggest staying within the area marked on the map. Keep in mind that part of Armenia Street can be quite lively at night, as it’s home to many bars — something you can easily spot on Google Maps. For families or those looking for a quieter stay, Achrafieh is a great option, offering a more peaceful atmosphere.

Things to do

Mohammad Al Amin Mosque

The renowned Blue Mosque, this is a must see!

Saint George Church

This is next to the Blue Mosque, it shows the harmony of religions within the country

National Museum

A Museum packed with Lebaese and international history

Boat Pigeon Rock

An amazing trip through the large Pigeon Rocks

Sursock Museum

A modern art and contemporary art museum

Zeituna Bay

The waterfront has mid to high end Lebanese restaurants, the food is good. Historically it was Beirut's red light district

East Beirut Walk

A walk around East Beirut Achrafieh's old streets and houses

West Beirut Walk

A walk around East Beirut downtown old streets and houses

Restaurants

Arthaus

The architecture is beautiful and the courtyard too

Ummi

Good food at an average price

Liza

Up market Lebanese restaurant in a beautiful old building

Kun Restaurant

Very good authentic Lebanese food at an average price

Bay Rock

Great for breakfast or sunset. When their ask for our friend manager Yassine and he can help

Dar Beirut

Very authentic, delicious, Lebanese food with nice decor in Gemezeh (near Mar Mikhael)

Jabbour Shawarma

One of the best Shawarma places in Lebanon.

Don't be shy to say hi to this guy!

Em Nazih Hamra

Nice quick, authentic, cheap food and a rooftop with a pool. They also sometimes have live music

Em Sherif rooftop

One of Lebanon's top restaurants, expensive and need to book in advance

Bars

Amelia

A very cool bar with great old Lebanese architecture. It is expensive

Dead End Paradise

A cool bar in Mar Mikhael, where people sprawl out and drink on the street

Chaplin

A very casual bar in Mar Mikhael

Dragonfly

Very cool, cosy bar. Have the "El Nino" drink, which the owner created, it's garnished with rosemary

Union Marks

A very cool bar with great old Lebanese architecture. It is reasonably expensive

Lost Bar

A cool bar in Gemmayze

Salon Beirut

Resto-Bar with a nice vibe and architecture

Rabbit hole

A fun bar in Hamra

NOW Beirut

A bar with live music in Achrafieh

Joe Peña's

Mexican resto-Bar

Rooftop bars

Note that all rooftop bars are more expensive than other places (think London prices). You have to book, and also you have to dress relatively smart, avoid shabby trainers and beach wear.