From Beirut: Jeita, Harissa, and Byblos Tour – Everything You Need to Know

Beirut, the capital city of Lebanon, is a perfect destination for tourists who love to explore a mix of ancient culture and modern lifestyle. With the stunning Mediterranean coastline, delicious food, and vibrant nightlife, this city remains an all-time favorite. If you wish to make the most of your trip to Beirut, you should definitely consider taking a tour of Jeita, Harissa, and Byblos!

What is the Jeita, Harissa, and Byblos Tour?

The Jeita, Harissa, and Byblos Tour is a fantastic full-day trip that will take you through some of the most iconic locations around Beirut. This tour will allow you to explore the breathtaking Jeita Grotto, a system of two limestone caves that are situated in Nahr al-Kalb valley. You will then head to Harissa, a mountain village that offers magnificent views of the Mediterranean coastline. Last but not least, you will visit the historical city of Byblos, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, dating back to 5000 BC.

What is included in the tour?

The tour is a complete package in itself, and it includes transportation, entrance fees, and a professional guide – who will explain the history and significance of each of the locations you visit. You will also be given free time to explore each of the locations on your own and for some souvenir shopping if you wish.

How long is the tour?

The entire tour will take around 8-9 hours, depending on the time you spend on each of the locations. The tour starts in the morning, around 8:30 a.m. and ends with a drop-off at your hotel around 5:00 p.m.

Why should you take the Jeita, Harissa, and Byblos tour?

If you are looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of Beirut city life, and want to explore some fascinating natural landscapes and historical sites, then this tour is definitely something you should consider. It is a perfect blend of nature, culture, and history packed in a single full-day trip. You can sit back, relax, and let the tour guide take you through some of the most iconic and historical places around Beirut. Not only will you get to see some of the world’s natural and historical wonders, but the tour will allow you to get up close and personal with the local culture and people.

What activities can you expect during the tour?

The Jeita, Harissa, and Byblos tour takes you through three locations, each offering its unique history and culture. You will start the tour with a visit to the Jeita Grotto, a network of two limestone caves known for their breathtaking natural beauty. The grotto is located next to Nahr al-Kalb valley and is surrounded by the lush greenery, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.

The next stop on the tour is Harissa, a small mountain village that offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean coastline. It’s also home to the famous Our Lady of Lebanon statue, a huge structure of the Virgin Mary that attracts millions of tourists each year.

The final destination on this tour is Byblos, a historical city situated on the Mediterranean coast. The city dates back to 5000 BC and is known for its ancient ruins and vibrant culture. You can explore the old Souks, the Byblos Castle, the Crusaders Church, and the archeological ruins of the Phoenicians, among other things.

How much does the tour cost, and how do you book?

The tour costs around $94 per person, and you can book it online on the official website of the tour operator here. You need to select the date and time to book the tour, and payment can be made via credit or debit card. Once you make the payment, you will receive a confirmation email with all the necessary details like pick-up time and location.

Conclusion

If you want to explore some of the most iconic locations around Beirut, and get up close and personal with the local culture and history, then the Jeita, Harissa, and Byblos tour is a must-do! It’s a perfect combination of nature, culture, and history packed in a single full-day trip. Book your tour today and get ready to have an unforgettable experience in Lebanon!

An Insider’s Guide to Beirut: Unveiling Hidden Gems and Unique Experiences

Beirut is a vibrant and charming city that attracts visitors from all over the world. If you’re planning a trip to Beirut, there are undoubtedly a few ‘must-see’ tourist spots on your list, such as the National Museum of Beirut, the Mohammed Al-Amin Mosque, or the downtown district. But wouldn’t it be more exciting to explore the city’s hidden treasures, experience its traditions, try its local foods, and discover its rich history?

Here’s an insider’s guide to Beirut that will help you explore the city beyond its conventional touristic spots.

Local Attractions: Discovering the Rare Gems

Beirut is a city bursting with hidden gems that only the locals know about. Here are some of the rare and unexplored destinations that will enrich your travel experience:

– Mar Mikhael Graffiti Art Walk: Mar Mikhael is a neighborhood renowned for its vibrant arts and culture scene, particularly its graffiti art, which decorates the walls and streets of the neighborhood. Take a walk and witness the bold and colorful murals made by local artists, telling stories about the city’s past, present, and future.

– Al-Omari Mosque: While there are plenty of tourist mosques in Beirut, the Al-Omari mosque is a hidden gem you shouldn’t miss. This mosque dates back to the seventh century and has been rebuilt several times throughout history. It’s characterized by its magnificent wooden roof, sculpted arches, and impressive minaret.

Dining Spots: Indulging in the City’s Flavors and Traditions

Lebanese cuisine is an integral part of Beirut’s culture, and the city boasts of having some of the best restaurants in the world. Here are some of the restaurants where you can indulge in Beirut’s unique culinary experience:

– Tawlet: This restaurant is a concept born out of a belief in the centrality of food in any community. Tawlet is not just a menu or a chef, but a place where you can taste traditional, homemade Lebanese food created by local women who come from across Lebanon’s regions.

– Falamanki: Falamanki is a restaurant chain that captures Beirut’s essence. They offer a variety of Lebanese dishes, which you can savor while enjoying Beirut’s nightlife.

Cultural Experiences: Immersing in the City’s Traditions and Festivals

Beirut is a city with a rich artistic and cultural heritage. There are plenty of cultural experiences you can have while visiting the city:

– Beirut Art Walk: Beirut Art Walk is a tour through the southern neighborhoods of Beirut, where you can witness the city’s contemporary art scene, visit studios, galleries, and museums.

– Sharq: Sharq showcases an authentic Arab ‘maqam’ performance, which is a traditional Arabic singing style characterized by its poetry, melody, and rhythmic structure. You can watch a stunning performance in a traditional Lebanese-style setting and engage in discussions about the Arab musical heritage.

Local History: Past Stories that Will Captivate You

Beirut has a long and complex history and has been at the center of several influential empires, including the Phoenician, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires. Here are some captivating stories from the city’s past:

– The Story of Beirut’s ‘Phoenician’ Past: Beirut was once a Phoenician city known as ‘Beyrouth,’ which means ‘the wells.’ You can still see the ruins of the Phoenician city in the National Museum of Beirut, and you can walk along the ancient Phoenician ports close to Martyr’s square.

– The Lebanese Civil War: Beirut witnessed a long and brutal civil war from 1975 to 1990. Visiting the National Museum of Beirut, Martyr’s Square, and the Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque will give you a clear sense of what happened during that time.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unique Experiences You Cannot Afford to Miss

Finally, here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions that will offer you an unforgettable and unique experience:

– The Old Souks: The souks of Beirut are the city’s beating heart, where you can find everything from designer clothes to local arts and crafts. Explore the narrow alleyways and visit the vintage shops, boutiques, and small eateries.

– Hamra and Achrafieh: These are two neighborhoods that offer a unique blend of modernity and tradition. They are filled with cafes, bars, and restaurants that are popular amongst locals.

Beirut has much to offer beyond its conventional touristic spots. With this guide, you can immerse yourself in its history, discover hidden gems, and indulge in the city’s unique culinary experience. Happy travels!