How to Plan Your Beirut Tour: Exploring Jeita Grotto, Byblos, and a Delicious Lebanese Lunch
Lebanon is a country rich in history, culture, and beauty. From the bustling city of Beirut to the ancient cities of Byblos and the natural wonders of Jeita Grotto, this private tour offers an unforgettable experience. In this article, we’ll guide you on how to plan your Beirut tour, highlighting the best of what this tour has to offer.
Experience
This private tour offers a full day of exploration with breathtaking views, natural wonders, and a glimpse into the rich history of Lebanon. In this tour, you will experience:
Highlights
- Explore the wonders of Jeita Grotto
- Be transported back to the Ancient Byblos, birthplace of the Phoenician alphabet
- Enjoy a stunning panoramic view from the cable car of Jounieh
- Delight in a delicious traditional Lebanese lunch by the sea
Full Description
The day begins with a hotel pickup and a drive to the incredible limestone caves of Jeita Grotto. On this tour you will have the chance to see both the upper and lower grotto and encounter the breathtaking natural beauty of stalactites and stalagmites. Before leaving the grotto, a boat ride will allow you to witness the magical ambiance of the caves from a unique perspective
After the grotto tour, you will visit Our Lady of Lebanon Harissa. Take the cable cars to Harissa, and enjoy the stunning panoramic view over Beirut and Jounieh Bay from above.
The last stop is Byblos, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, where you will have a guided tour of the ancient Phoenician city. You’ll explore the Citadel where the Phoenician alphabet was invented, and enjoy a beautiful walk through the old souk. Finally, to complete the tour, you will enjoy a delicious traditional Lebanese lunch by the sea.
Includes
This tour includes:
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Entry ticket to Jeita Grotto
- Entry ticket to the cable cars at Harissa
- Entry ticket to Byblos citadel
- Lebanese lunch
- Alcohol (optional – not included in the price)
Booking the Tour
If you are interested in experiencing this tour, it is easy to book! Simply click here, and you’ll be directed straight to the booking page on GetYourGuide.
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Lebanon is a country with so much to offer, and this private tour is a fantastic way to explore its natural wonders, rich history, and delicious food. Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends and family, this tour is a must-do experience.
We hope this article has helped you to plan your Beirut tour, and that you have an unforgettable adventure in Lebanon!
Frequently Asked Questions About Beirut
Beirut is a beautiful city with a rich cultural and historical background. If you are planning to visit this vibrant city, you may have many questions about the place, including the best time to visit, what to see, where to stay, and much more. This comprehensive FAQ guide provides answers to the most important questions regarding Beirut.1. What is the best time to visit Beirut?
Beirut is a city that offers an exciting experience all year long, but the best time to visit is from March to May and September to November. These months are blessed with pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and lower hotel rates as compared to the peak season during summer.2. What are the must-see attractions in Beirut?
Beirut offers an exciting blend of ancient and modern attractions that offer a glimpse of its historical and cultural background. Some of the must-see tourist attractions in Beirut include:- The National Museum of Beirut
- The Pigeon Rocks, Raouché
- The Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque
- The Sursock Museum
- The Roman Baths
- The Martyrs’ Square
3. What activities can I do in Beirut?
Beirut is a city that offers a plethora of activities to its visitors. You can indulge in a variety of activities such as:- Exploring the street markets of Beirut, such as Souks of Beirut, for a shopping experience
- Visiting the iconic landmarks like Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque and St. George Maronite Cathedral
- Relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Beirut like Ramlet al-Baida Beach and Batroun Beach
- Indulging in authentic Lebanese cuisine
- Enjoying the nightlife of Beirut by visiting places like Skybar, The Junkyard, and Iris Beirut.
4. What are some of the best places to stay in Beirut?
Beirut offers a range of options for accommodation, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hotels. Some of the best places to stay in Beirut are:- Four Seasons Hotel Beirut
- Le Gray Beirut
- Mövenpick Hotel Beirut
- Gefinor Rotana Hotel
- The Smallville Hotel
5. What are the transportation options available in Beirut?
Beirut has a well-developed transport system, which offers various options for travelers to move around the city. The most popular transportation options in Beirut include:- Taxis, which are readily available throughout Beirut
- Buses, which cover most of Beirut’s destinations and offer a budget-friendly option.
- Metro system (Beirut Rapid Transit), which is under construction and will connect different parts of the city in the future.
- Car rental, which is also an option for travelers who want to explore the city at their pace.
6. What should I wear while visiting Beirut?
Beirut is a city where dressing modestly is highly appreciated, especially when visiting Mosques or other holy places. However, there are no strict clothing regulations for visitors, and you can dress casually while exploring the city during the day. In the night, you may want to dress fancier if you plan to visit upscale venues like bars or clubs.7. What is the currency used in Beirut?
The currency used in Beirut is the Lebanese Lira (LL), also referred to as Lebanese Pound. While some places may accept US dollars, it’s advisable to exchange your currency to the Lebanese Lira for most transactions.8. Is Beirut a safe city for tourists?
Beirut is generally safe for tourists, but there are some areas where you need to exercise caution, such as the southern suburbs of Beirut, where terrorist attacks have occurred in the past. It is advisable to avoid these areas and always follow the guidance of the local authorities.9. Can I drink tap water in Beirut?
It is not suggested to drink tap water in Beirut, but you can use it for brushing teeth and washing other things. It is advisable to drink bottled water to avoid any health risks.10. What are some Lebanese phrases I should know when visiting Beirut?
Knowing a few basic Lebanese phrases can greatly enhance your experience in Beirut. Here are some of them:- Marhaba – Hello
- Kifik – How are you?
- Shukran – Thank You
- Kil shi biddo ma chouf – Anything you can’t see, insist
- Ma fi mushkile – No problem
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Beirut is a city that offers a unique blend of modernity and heritage. With its rich cultural background, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful beaches, Beirut has something for everyone. By following the tips provided in this guide, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to this beautiful city.
How to spend your time as a tourist in Beirut
Beirut is a city that has undergone significant changes over the past few years. With its rich history, culture, and friendly people, it has become a popular destination for tourists. Here are some things you can do as a tourist in Beirut:
1. Visit the National Museum of Beirut
The National Museum of Beirut is a must-see for every tourist visiting the city. It houses a large collection of artifacts from prehistoric times to the Ottoman period. The museum is located in a beautiful park and features sculptures, pottery, jewelry, and other artifacts from throughout Lebanon’s history.
2. Explore the Corniche
The Corniche is a seaside promenade that offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, where you can take a stroll, grab a coffee, or just relax and enjoy the scenery.
3. Visit the Jeita Grotto
The Jeita Grotto is a breathtaking natural wonder located just 18 kilometers north of Beirut. It’s a network of limestone caves that feature stunning rock formations and underground lakes. You can take a tour of the grotto and see the stalactites, stalagmites, and other natural wonders.
4. Have a meal at a rooftop restaurant
Beirut offers some of the most fabulous rooftop restaurants that provide stunning views of the city skyline. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening or just to enjoy a meal with friends, the rooftop restaurants offer an unforgettable experience. They serve a variety of delicious Lebanese cuisine along with foreign dishes.
5. Shop in the Souks
The Beirut Souks is a traditional marketplace consisting of narrow streets and alleys filled with colorful stores selling traditional items such as textiles, jewelry, and spices. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs or try some local street food.
6. Visit the Sursock Museum
Built at the beginning of the 20th-century, this museum houses a collection of artworks by contemporary Lebanese and international artists. The Sursock Museum is a great place to see art exhibitions, watch performances, attend workshops, and events throughout the year.
7. Go clubbing in Beirut
Beirut is widely known for its vibrant nightlife scene. The city boasts a wide range of clubs and bars that cater to every taste. You can find a variety of music genres such as techno, house, pop, and rock. Most of the clubs in Beirut are open until the early hours of the morning.
8. Try Lebanese street food
Lebanese cuisine is one of the best in the world, and the street food is no exception. You can try some traditional dishes such as manakish, falafel, shawarma, kibbeh, and tabbouleh. The street food is not only delicious but also affordable.
9. Visit the Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque
The Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque is a magnificent building located in the heart of Beirut. It’s one of the most significant religious buildings in Lebanon and a must-visit for any tourist who wants to learn more about the Muslim culture. The mosque’s architecture represents an exquisite blend of Ottoman and Islamic styles.
10. Take a day trip to Byblos
Just an hour’s drive from Beirut, Byblos is a charming coastal town that boasts several historical landmarks such as the Crusader Castle and the Phoenician ruins. You can also take a stroll in the old town and enjoy some fresh seafood at the port.
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Beirut is a city that has something to offer for every tourist. From exploring its rich history and culture to enjoying its vibrant nightlife, there are so many things to do in Beirut. By following the above tips, you can make the most out of your time as a tourist in this beautiful city.
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