The most beautiful Lebanon landmarks worth visiting

Last Updated on February 16, 2024

Ready to dive into Lebanon? Before I hit the Lebanon landmarks, I first give you some tips on how to travel to Lebanon. Next, I share with you all kinds of Lebanon landmarks; from hiking in the breathtaking Qadisha Valley and chilling with ancient ceders to taking a cable car up to Our Lady and the bustling streets of Beirut. Ready for Lebanon’s mix of history, nature, and a dash of fun? Enjoy!

How to travel to Lebanon?

Going on a trip to Lebanon is easier than you might think and it’s a great way to get to know the Middle East better. Before arranging your transportation to Lebanon, please check for any travel restrictions, visa requirements, and safety advisories. There are several ways to travel to Lebanon:

– By air

Lebanon is well-connected internationally and Beirut’s Rafic Hariri International Airport is the primary gateway. With Middle East Airlines, you can start your journey with a quick flight to Beirut, a lively city. Direct flights are available from major cities, but you may find more flight options and potentially better prices with one or more layovers. Popular layover cities include Istanbul, Doha, Dubai, and major European hubs.

If you plan to explore different regions of Lebanon, you can take domestic flights. Middle East Airlines operates flights between Beirut and cities like Tripoli, Tyre, and Jounieh.

– By Land

Lebanon shares land borders with Syria to the north and east and Israel to the south. The country has an extensive network of affordable buses connecting major cities.

It’s also possible to rent a car in Lebanon. Make sure you have an international driving license. Renting a car provides flexibility, especially if you plan to explore beyond major cities. The roads are generally in good condition, but keep in mind that traffic in urban areas can be hectic.

How to get around in Lebanon?

Public transportation in Lebanon includes buses, shared taxis, and rental cars. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are available in urban areas. Consider renting a car for more flexibility, especially if you plan to explore outside major cities.

parked cars on an intersection — Photo by Jo Kassis on Pexels.com

The most beautiful Lebanon landmarks worth visiting

From historical sites to modern cities, Lebanon offers a diverse range of destinations and attractions. Here are my favorite places to visit in Lebanon:

– Beirut

Beirut is Lebanon’s capital and it’s very likely that your trip to Lebanon will start or end in this city. And that’s not a problem at all! 😉 The capital offers a great mix of history, cultural diversity, and modernity. You can find numerous archaeological sites, museums, galleries, theaters, luxurious shopping malls, traditional souks and skyscrapers. Explore areas like Gemmayzeh and Mar Mikhael for nightlife, Hamra for shopping, and Achrafieh for a mix of history and modernity. The city is also well known for its lively nightlife and street food. Make sure to try some falafel, shawarma, mezze, and sweet treats if you are visiting Beirut.

Tip: make sure to visit the Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque in Beirut. This modern mosque is an architectural marvel and has stunning interior and design.

– The Citadel of Raymond de Saint-Gilles

The Citadel of Raymond de Saint-Gilles in Tripoli is another beautiful landmark in Libanon. The citadel is named after its founder and has imposing stone walls and a strategic location. It’s not just a fortress; it’s a place that preserves stories, struggles, and secrets from the past. In the Citadel you can explore labyrinthine passageways and climb some ancient towers. From the towers, you have a breathtaking view of Tripoli and the Mediterranean Sea. Consider joining a guided tour to gain insights into the historical significance of the Citadel and the stories behind its architecture.

Tip: the Citadel is located in Tripoli, a city with other historical and cultural attractions. Consider exploring nearby sites such as the Old Souks or the Great Mosque to make the most of your trip.

– The Baalbek

The Baalbek is one of the most well-known Roman archaeological sites worldwide and definitely worth a visit in Lebanon! Nestled in the east, Baalbek has colossal temples dedicated to the big shots—Jupiter, Bacchus, and Venus – each with a “wow” factor.

Tip: consider visiting the Baalbek International Festival right in the midst of these ancient ruins, usually every July.

– Jeita Grotto

Moving from history to nature, Jeita Grotto is a must-visit landmark in Lebanon. The colossal limestone caves, approximately 9 kilometers in length, is a beautiful landmark to explore by boat or foot. Consider taking a guided tour to enhance your understanding of the geological formations and the history of Jeita Grotto. Keep in mind that the caves maintain a cool temperature throughout the year. Dress in layers to ensure comfort during your underground exploration.

Tip: Jeita Grotto is a popular attraction, so be prepared for crowds, especially during weekends and holidays. Plan your visit during weekdays for a potentially quieter experience.

– Byblos

The coastal city of Byblos, is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. Here, you can wander through Phoenician, Roman, and Crusader ruins, before exploring modern restaurants and beach clubs. Must-see sites in Byblos are the Phoenician temples, city walls, impressive Roman theater, Byblos Castle, Byblos’ Old Souk, The St. John the Baptist Church, and picturesque fishing harbor. If you decide to visit the harbor, make sure to try traditional Lebanese mezze, fresh seafood, and local specialties. Seafood dishes are particularly popular due to the city’s coastal location.

Tip: Byblos hosts an annual International Festival, featuring a variety of cultural events, concerts, and performances. Usually every August.

– Beiteddine Palace

Beiteddine Palace, nestled in the Chouf Mountains, is a masterpiece of Lebanese architecture. The palace was built in the early 19th century by Emir Bashir Shihab II and served as his residence and administrative headquarters. The palace now houses a museum, which showcases various artifacts, historical documents, artworks and rooms. You can also stroll through the beautiful gardens.

Tip: Beiteddine Palace hosts the Beiteddine Festival, an annual cultural event that attracts cultural enthusiasts from around the world.

– Sidon

Leading you further into the charm of the coastal Lebanese towns, Sidon offers a great mix of historical heritage and urban bustle. The Sea Castle and the Sidon Soap Museum, which showcases the traditional methods of soap-making, are some must-visit places in Sidon, also known as Saida. Other must-visits are Khan El Franj, Sidon’s Old Souk, The Temple of Eshmun and the historic port area.

– Qadisha Valley

The Qadisha Valley, known as the Holy Valley, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is absolutely worth visiting when traveling to Lebanon. Here you can find plenty of ancient monasteries, hermitages, caves, deep gorges, rugged cliffs, and the Qadisha River. The valley is a great place if you love hiking and serves as a gateway to the Cedars of God, another UNESCO-listed site.

Tip: trails in the Qadisha Valley vary in difficulty, so select a hiking trail that matches your fitness level and time constraints. Examples are Hasroun village to Qadisha Valley (2.2 km), Hadchit village to Mar Lichaa Monastery (3.5 km), Bcharreh village to Bqaakafra village (6 km), Blawza village to Mar Lichaa Monastery (9 km) or Dimane village to Mar Lichaa Monastery (14 km).

– Cedars of God

The Cedars of God is a cluster of old cedar trees, some of which are over a thousand years old, located in the Qadisha Valley in Lebanon. Plan your visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site based on the season. While the Cedars of God is accessible year-round, spring and early summer (April to June) offer pleasant weather with warm colored landscapes, and winter provides a magical snowy landscape. Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for walking in natural terrain.

Tip: be mindful of the cultural and historical importance of the cedars. The Cedars of God are important in Lebanese history.

– Our Lady of Lebanon

Our Lady of Lebanon is a Marian shrine and a pilgrimage site in the village of Harissa in Lebanon. Perched on a hill overlooking the bay of Jounieh, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. Pilgrims often climb the stairs leading to the statue as a form of spiritual devotion and seek blessings from the Virgin Mary. But don’t worry if you don’t like climbing stairs; you can take a comfortable cable car ride to the top 😉 The iconic statue is 13.8 meters tall (45 feet) and is made of bronze. It’s an impressive statue to see and serves as an iconic symbol of Lebanon.

Tip: in addition to the statue, Harissa features the Basilica of Our Lady of Lebanon, a beautiful church with impressive architecture.

Conclusion

Whether you’re exploring the Qadisha Valley’s breathtaking scenery or taking a cable car ride to Our Lady of Lebanon, Lebanon promises a mix of history, nature, and a dash of fun. The vibrant city life, ancient ruins, coastal charm, and cultural festivals make this Middle Eastern country a must-visit destination. Lebanon’s allure lies not only in its landmarks, but in the harmonious coexistence of its past and present. For any questions or more tips, feel free to drop a comment below. I’m happy to help you. Safe travels!

Author: Daphne

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