How to Plan Your Beirut: Shouf Cedars & Beiteddine Palace Day Trip with Lunch

If you’re looking for a way to explore the natural beauty and rich history of Lebanon, then the Beirut: Shouf Cedars & Beiteddine Palace Day Trip with Lunch is the perfect tour for you. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this day trip will take you on a journey through some of Lebanon’s most iconic landmarks, including the Shouf Cedars, Deir el Qamar, and the Beiteddine Palace. In this guide, we will provide you with all the information you need to plan your perfect day trip in Beirut, Lebanon.

Experience

The Beirut: Shouf Cedars & Beiteddine Palace Day Trip with Lunch is designed for travelers who want to experience the best of Lebanon in a single day. This full-day tour includes a visit to the Shouf Cedars, where you can hike through the historic cedar forest that was once prized by the ancient Egyptians. You will also get to explore the scenic stone streets of Deir el Qamar, a picturesque mountain town that is steeped in history and tradition. The highlight of the tour is a visit to the Beiteddine Palace, a magnificent 19th-century palace that is regarded as one of the greatest examples of Lebanese architecture. You will have the opportunity to explore the palace’s intricate designs and learn about its storied history from your knowledgeable guide.

Itinerary

The Beirut: Shouf Cedars & Beiteddine Palace Day Trip with Lunch includes the following itinerary:

• 8:30 AM: Hotel pickup
• 10:00 AM: Arrival at the Shouf Cedars
• 12:00 PM: Visit to Deir el Qamar and lunch
• 2:00 PM: Arrival at the Beiteddine Palace
• 4:00 PM: Departure for Beirut
• 6:00 PM: Return to Hotel

What’s Included?

The Beirut: Shouf Cedars & Beiteddine Palace Day Trip with Lunch includes the following:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Entrance fees
• Lebanese lunch with alcoholic drinks
• Guide

What to Bring?

To make the most out of your Beirut: Shouf Cedars & Beiteddine Palace Day Trip with Lunch, you should bring the following:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sunscreen and a hat
• Camera
• Light jacket or sweater (for colder weather)

Booking the Tour

If you are interested in booking the Beirut: Shouf Cedars & Beiteddine Palace Day Trip with Lunch, you can do so by visiting the GetYourGuide website at book the tour here. We recommend booking in advance to ensure availability and to guarantee a hassle-free experience.

Final Thoughts

The Beirut: Shouf Cedars & Beiteddine Palace Day Trip with Lunch is a perfect excursion for travelers who want to explore Lebanon’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. With a knowledgeable guide and comfortable transportation, this tour is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience. So, what are you waiting for? Book the tour today and get ready to explore the best of Lebanon!

Frequently Asked Questions About Beirut

Beirut is a vibrant and fascinating city, standing as the capital of Lebanon. This stunning Middle Eastern city offers an exciting blend of ancient history, dramatic landscapes, and modern infrastructure. However, if you are planning to visit Beirut for the first time, you might have plenty of questions. Here, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions about Beirut that will help you to make an informed decision.

1. Why is Beirut called the “Paris of the Middle East”?

Beirut has commonly been referred to as the “Paris of the Middle East.” It got this name as it was once a French colony and has a Western-like feel to it. This Mediterranean city offers modern lifestyle opportunities with a historic and picturesque backdrop.

2. What is the best time to visit Beirut?

The best time to visit Beirut is in the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these months, the temperature remains mild, and there is less rainfall. This time is perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Summer months can be hot and humid, while winter can be chilly and rainy.

3. Is Beirut a safe city to travel to?

Beirut is a safe city to visit as long as you take normal precautions like not venturing out alone at night or taking dark alleys. Lebanon has had political instability, but these incidents are rare, and most of the city is safe for tourists. However, it is always advisable to stay updated on the current situation by checking official government travel advisories.

4. What are the best places to visit in Beirut?

Beirut has plenty of attractions to offer to its visitors. Some of the must-visit places include:

• Jeita Grotto – A series of mysterious underground caves and tunnels
• National Museum of Beirut – A fascinating museum showcasing Lebanon’s ancient history and culture
• Pigeon Rocks – A natural rock formation along the Beirut waterfront
• Downtown Beirut – The historic heart of the city that has undergone significant reconstruction
• Gemmayzeh Street – A trendy street with lively nightlife, cafes, and bars

5. What is the local currency, and how can I exchange my currency to buy local currency?

The local currency in Lebanon is the Lebanese pound (LBP). You can exchange your currency at any exchange office in Beirut, which are readily available. It’s advisable to exchange money at banks or exchange offices and not on the street as they may offer lower exchange rates.

6. Which language do people speak in Beirut?

The official language of Beirut is Arabic, but most people also speak fluent or broken English, especially in the tourist areas.

7. What kind of food can I expect to find in Beirut?

Lebanese cuisine is famous for its salads, hummus, and grilled meats. You can also find international cuisine like Italian, French, and Asian. Some of the popular dishes in Beirut include Shawarma, Manakish, Fattoush, and Kibbeh.

8. Is it customary to tip in Beirut?

Tipping is customary in Beirut, and it’s suggested to tip 10-15% of the bill. Tipping for other services like taxi rides or tours is also expected.

9. How can I get around Beirut?

Beirut has a modern and reliable transportation system. You can take a taxi, bus or rent a car to get around the city. Uber is also available in Beirut. However, if you want to explore Beirut like a local, walking is the best option.

10. What is the dress code for tourists visiting Beirut?

As Beirut is predominantly an Islamic city, it is advisable to dress modestly while visiting religious places or neighborhoods. However, in most areas, casual attire is acceptable. It is also suggested to dress according to the weather as summers can be quite hot.

Book Your Tour Now

Beirut is a city of contrasts – on one hand, it offers an ancient history and culture while on the other hand, it has a modern and thriving lifestyle. It is quickly becoming a trendy destination for tourists with its fascinating attractions, delicious food, and friendly locals. By keeping this FAQ guide in mind, you can make the most of your Beirut vacation and enjoy all that this city has to offer.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Beirut

Beirut has been attracting tourists from all around the world for its rich history, vibrant culture, and vibrant nightlife. Known for its charming neighborhoods, delicious food, stunning coastline, and friendly locals, Beirut offers an exciting and rewarding travel experience. If you’re planning a trip to Beirut, here’s a guide on how to make the most of your time in this fascinating city.

1. Visit the National Museum of Beirut

One of the best ways to get to know the history and culture of Beirut is to visit the National Museum of Beirut. The museum showcases over 1,300 artifacts that date back to prehistoric times through to the Ottoman period. The exhibits include Phoenician statues, Hellenistic sarcophagi, Byzantine mosaics, and Islamic ceramics. The museum is located on the Rue de Damas Street in the western district of Beirut, and is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm.

2. Explore Downtown Beirut

Beirut’s downtown is an excellent place to wander around and explore. The renovated streets are lined with chic cafés, boutique shops, and restaurants, and you’ll find some of the city’s most iconic landmarks here, including the Martyrs’ Square, St. George Maronite Cathedral, and the Lebanese parliament building. You can also take a guided walking tour around the district to learn more about its history, architecture, and culture.

3. Visit the Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque

One of the largest mosques in Lebanon, the Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque is a beautiful place to visit. Its architecture combines Ottoman and Islamic styles, and its interior features intricate decorations and designs. The mosque is located in the northeast of downtown Beirut and is open to visitors from 8am-2pm and 4pm-8pm.

4. Enjoy some Lebanese food

Lebanese cuisine is one of the highlights of any trip to Beirut. With its rich flavors and fresh ingredients, Lebanese food is a gastronomic delight. Some of the must-try dishes include hummus, tabbouleh, kibbeh, falafel, and shawarma. You can find delicious Lebanese food in restaurants and street food vendors around the city.

5. Visit Jeita Grotto

Located just 18 kilometers north of Beirut, Jeita Grotto is a stunning natural wonder that attracts thousands of visitors every year. The cave system boasts some of the world’s largest stalactites and stalagmites, as well as an underground river that you can explore by boat. The Jeita Grotto is open from Monday to Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm.

6. Take a stroll along the Corniche

The Corniche is Beirut’s most famous seafront promenade, and it’s a great place to take a leisurely stroll or bike ride. You’ll enjoy fantastic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the city’s skyline while passing by beautiful gardens, cafés, restaurants.

7. Visit the Sursock Museum

Located in the Achrafieh district of Beirut, the Sursock Museum is a must-visit for art lovers. The museum showcases modern and contemporary art from Lebanon and the Arab world. The beautifully restored mansion that houses the museum is also an attraction in itself, featuring eclectic architectural styles from the 19th century.

8. Check out the Beirut Souks

The Beirut Souks are the city’s main shopping district, and they offer a wide range of shops, from high-end designer boutiques to budget-friendly souvenirs. The souks are located in the heart of downtown Beirut and cover an area of over 120,000 square meters.

9. Experience Beirut’s nightlife

Beirut’s nightlife is legendary, and it’s a must-try experience while in the city. With a plethora of bars, clubs, and restaurants, Beirut has something to offer for everyone. The city’s nightlife scene is particularly vibrant in the Achrafieh and Gemmayzeh districts, where you’ll find countless hip bars and live music venues.

10. Take a day trip to Byblos

The ancient city of Byblos is another must-visit destination that’s easily accessible from Beirut. Located just 40 kilometers north of the city, Byblos is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, dating back to the 5th millennium BCE. The city is home to some of Lebanon’s most impressive ancient ruins, including the Phoenician castle, the Crusader castle, and the Roman amphitheater.

Book Your Tour Now

Beirut is a fascinating city that has something to offer for every kind of traveler. From its rich history and vibrant culture to its stunning coastline and delicious cuisine, Beirut is a city that should be on everyone’s travel bucket list. By following this guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your time in Beirut and experience all that this captivating city has to offer.