//
Capital and largest city of Lebanon
Photo: Lebnen18, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Beirut (Arabic: بيروت Bayrūt, French: Beyrouth) is the capital city of Lebanon with a population of approximately 2.1 million people in its metropolitan area. The city is on a relatively small headland jutting into the east Mediterranean. It is by far the biggest city in Lebanon. Due to Lebanon's small size, the capital has always held the status as the only true cosmopolitan city in the country, and since independence, has been the commercial and financial hub of Lebanon.
In the heart of the city beside the Beirut port and Beirut marina; includes many cafés, restaurants, and places to shop. Also home to many historical sites. It is very touristy, and not as authentic as other districts.
The center of modern nightlife in the city, though less so during the summertime. Ashrafieh, is divided into smaller areas; Gemmayze and Monot Street are the most popular nightspots, while Sassine Square and Sodeco Square are mainly afternoon shopping areas. Gemmayze consists of mostly pubs, though it does also contain a fine selection of restaurants. Many people are starting to think of it as a separate entity from Ashrafieh. Monot Street features a mix of restaurants, nightclubs, and pubs.
Seafront district with plenty of hotels and restaurants.
A hive of activity, and a shopping-lover's paradise. Hamra became the centre during the troubles in the 1970s. The more popular places are Bliss st., Hamra st., Sourati st. and Jeanne d'Arc st., each having its own share of cafés, hotels, and restaurants. Hamra st. in particular has been redeveloped, with larger chains of restaurants and cafés opening there, including Starbucks, Costa, Nandos, Roadsters, and Applebees. There has also been a revitalization of the pub scene, with over a dozen bars and pubs operating in the area.
The westernmost district of Beirut. Ras Beirut literally translates to "the head of Beirut" due to its location on the tip of peninsula, home to the Manara Lighthouse and various beach clubs (though none feature any sandy beaches).
The Pigeon Rocks, one of the iconic landmarks of the city, and many sunset-looking cafés and restaurants.
A residential area just south of Rawcheh, which hosted Beirut's only public beach before huge building projects started in 2016.
A trendy shopping area, with cafés and restaurants. Many Gulf Arabs stay here during summer vacations.
A predominantly residential area in southern Beirut, but also home to various clubs and hotels.
From the travel guide. Select a place for details, a map and what is nearby.
The museum in South Ashrafieh has artefacts ranging in date from prehistoric times to the medieval Mamluk period mainly dealing with Lebanon's archeology and history.
The museum in Ashrafieh exhibits contemporary and modern art. The building is a perfect example of the typical 18th-century Lebanese palace.
Lebanese and International contemporary art
The museum in Hamra District is a museum of archeology and history.
This might be good if you are into the silk industry. It is set in an old – you guessed it – silk factory.
Held annually in October, the Beirut Film Festival exhibits films from all over the Middle East, usually in either Arabic or French. The films vary enormously and some can be intensely political.
Held annually during the month of July over a period of four days, some of the greatest international jazz artists as well as musicians from around Lebanon play some quality music near the Beirut marina.
Held between the month of March and April over a period of two weeks, films are in French. Cinéma Métropolis - Masrah Al Madina, Beirut.
There is one at least one public beach though, right here. Lots of sand and pounding waves but sadly trash and pollution, maybe even some sewage releases into the water, too. Uff, at least you can watch the surf and sunset anyway. It is said to be a bit of a gay cruising spot too.
18 hole
30 passenger helium filled balloon, offering breathtaking views from an altitude of 300 m
National Institute for Scuba Diving
Solidere Beirut Marina, Downtown Beirut.
Lebanon Divers
Mardelli Building 2nd Floor, Saide Street Ashrafieh.
Bel Azur Hotel, Jounieh, Greater Beirut.
Many international brands are here along with great restaurants, cafés, and a movie theatre all in a mixed indoor/outdoor setting.
Tayouneh roundabout.
By car
Beirut is linked with all coastal cities through the coastal road. Entrances/exists off this road connect it to districts adjacent to the coast such as Maten and Kesrwen (and others).
By bus
Charles Helou Station lies approximately 1 km east of Nejmeh Square, on Charles Helou Avenue, facing the Beirut Port.
By taxi
Taxis to Damascus, Syria are lined up at the Charles Helou bus station.
By service
The more common form of transport, especially with daily commuters, as they are cheaper than the taxis, but ironically, are in fact the same.
By bus
There are two public transport companies.
By car
Driving in Beirut is not to be recommended for much of the day, particularly in the city centre. Traffic is heavy, and impossible during rush hour.
By foot
As the city is quite compact, walking is the best way of getting around, and perfect for getting off the beaten track to find unexpected surprises.
By bicycle
Road blocks make cycling relatively safe the rest of the time as the result of reduced traffic.
Choose an airport to see hotels, stations, taxi ranks and car rental desks around it.
Beirut · International · BEY
Loading places around the airport…
Every section of the guide. Open one to read it in full.