Lebanon Travel Guide
Lebanon Travel Guide
Basic Facts of Lebanon
Location: in southwest Asia, the eastern Mediterranean Area: 4,036 square mi (10,452 square km) Population: 6.2 million Language: Arabic Currency: Lebanese pound Time Zone: UTC+2 Capital: Beirut Administrative Division: 6 provinces Religions and Beliefs: Islam and ChristianityTop Things to Do
When you visit Lebanon, appreciating the natural beauty and feeling the historical civilization are the top things to do. You can walk through the Qadisha Valley (Holy Valley) to take a breath of fresh air and feel the tranquil landscape. Ancient cities and historical sites are also unmissable, which can make you know the country well. You can enjoy the sea view in summer and go skiing in winter.Top Destinations & Attractions
Beirut: Byblos, National Museum of Beirut, Jeita Grotto, Beiteddine Palace, Qadisha Valley Tripoli: Tripoli Citadel, Great Mosque Bekaa Valley: Anjar, Baalbeck Roman TemplesBest Time to Visit Lebanon
Generally March to May is the best time to visit Lebanon for holidays, as the weather is the most comfortable in a year with mild temperature and little rain. October to April is the rainy season, which is not suitable for travel. With Mediterranean climate, the coastal area is hot and humid in summer and warm in winter. If you wish, you can visit the coastal area in winter.Transportation
In Lebanon, highway transport plays a dominant role in domestic transportation, and ship and plane are the major means for international transport. Beirut, Tripoli and Sidon ports are the major ports in the country and Beirut Airport is the only international airport which operates flights to France, UK, Greece, Egypt, Kuwait and others. The railway stretches as long as 335 km (208 miles), all state-owned. Except the section between Beirut and Chekka, the rest is unusable.► Read More:
Travel by Car in Lebanon: How to Rent, Pick up, and Return a Car
Lebanon Road Trip: Comprehensive Route Plan & Driving Strategies
Lebanon Travel Tips
1. For a vacation there, you can apply to the Lebanon Embassy for visa or get a visa on arrival at all ports of entry in the country.
► Read More: Labanon Visa & Entry Policy
2. Destinations with affordable hotels and reasonable travel budget are also a part of your travel plan.
► Read More: How much does it cost to travel to Lebanon?
3. Lebanon is a country with many different religions, therefore you should pay attention to your words and behaviors. Don’t discuss politics and religions in public. Cities in the northwest are not safe, so you are not advised to go there.
► Read More: Is Lebanon Safe? Read the 10 Tips on Travel Safety
4. If you want to visit the country in rainy season, umbrella and waterproof clothes are necessary.
History
Lebanon is a country with a long history which could be traced to over 2000 years ago. It was invaded and ruled by Ancient Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Ancient Rome and others. It was under the mandatory administration of France since 1920 and became an independent republic in 1943. Because of the foreign invasions, historical sites with different styles were built and preserved up to now, such as Baalbek and Anjar.