How to Plan Your From Beirut: Jeita Grotto, Harissa & Byblos Tour with Lunch

Are you planning to visit Byblos, the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world? Whether you’re a history buff or just a traveler looking for adventure, make sure to book this amazing tour to experience the best that Byblos has to offer. This tour will take you to the Jeita Grotto, Harissa, Byblos, and finally, enjoy traditional Lebanese cuisine in a sea-view restaurant. Here’s how you can plan your tour of the Jeita Grotto, Harissa & Byblos with lunch.

Step 1: Booking the Tour

The first step to planning your tour is to book it online. You can book your tour on getyourguide.com, where it’s easy to select your preferred date and time. Booking your tour online is fast, convenient, and it ensures you’ll have a reserved spot. The tour includes transportation, English-speaking guide, entrance fees, and traditional Lebanese lunch. Make sure you choose a date and time that fits your schedule, and you are good to go. Book the tour here

Step 2: Get Ready for Your Tour

On the day of the tour, you should get ready and be prepared for a day full of adventure. You should wear comfortable clothing and shoes since you’ll be exploring the caves and may want to walk around the old souks. Don’t forget to bring your camera or phone to capture some memorable photos of your experience.

Step 3: Tour Itinerary

The tour begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Beirut. You’ll then start your scenic journey towards Jeita Grotto, where you’ll explore the fascinating limestone caves with captivating stalactites and stalagmites formations as well as the impressive crystallized rock formations. For an unforgettable experience, take a boat ride inside the grotto and admire the breathtaking beauty of the cave from a different perspective. After Jeita Grotto, the tour continues to Harissa, where you’ll enjoy a stunning panoramic view of Beirut and Jounieh Bay by taking a cable car ride to the top of Harissa Hill where the Basilica of Our Lady of Lebanon is located. Harissa is a significant pilgrimage site for many Lebanese and other pilgrims who come to Harissa to visit the shrine of Our Lady of Lebanon. The next stop of your tour is Byblos, also known as Jbeil, which is the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world, dating back to 5000 BC. Here, you will explore the stunning old souks, ancient port, Crusader Castle, church, and the surrounding ancient walls, narrated by a local expert tour guide. Finally, after exploring the beautiful Byblos, you’ll head to an authentic Lebanese restaurant located by the sea, which is also included in the tour. You’ll enjoy traditional Lebanese cuisine while you take in the ocean view before your journey back to your hotel.

Step 4: Enjoy Your Tour

During this tour, you’ll discover the hidden jewels of Lebanon and learn about the rich history and culture of the country. The tour is designed to give you the best experience of Jeita Grotto, Harissa, and Byblos, and a chance to immerse yourself in Lebanese culture while enjoying delicious meals.

Book Your Tour Now

If you are planning to visit Byblos, The Jeita Grotto, Harissa & Byblos Tour with lunch is a great way to experience the best activities and landmarks in one trip. Remember to book the tour online, get ready for the adventure, and enjoy the beautiful scenery and history of Byblos.

FAQs about Byblos

Byblos is an ancient city in Lebanon rich in history and culture. It has become a top tourist destination in the country, attracting visitors from all over the world. In this post, we will answer some frequently asked questions about Byblos to help you plan your visit.

1. Where is Byblos located?

Byblos is located on the Mediterranean coast in Lebanon. It is situated about 40 km north of Beirut, making it easily accessible from the capital city.

2. What is the history of Byblos?

Byblos is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Neolithic period. It was an important center of trade and culture for the ancient Phoenicians and was later ruled by various empires including the Assyrians, Babylonians, and Egyptians. The city played a significant role in the development of the Phoenician alphabet, which later evolved into the Greek alphabet.

3. What are some of the top things to see and do in Byblos?

Byblos has a wealth of historical and cultural sites to explore. Some of the top attractions include:

• Byblos Castle

This ancient castle was built in the 12th century by the Crusaders and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can explore the castle’s towers and walls, as well as a small museum showcasing artifacts from the Phoenician, Roman, and Byzantine periods.

• Byblos Souks

The souks in Byblos are a maze of narrow streets and alleys lined with shops and cafes. Visitors can find everything from handmade crafts and souvenirs to traditional Lebanese sweets and pastries.

• Byblos Fossil Museum

This small museum showcases a collection of fossils found in the nearby mountains, including ammonites, trilobites, and other marine creatures.

• Byblos Wax Museum

This museum features life-size wax figures of famous Lebanese historical figures and celebrities.

• Byblos International Festival

This annual music festival attracts top international performers and takes place in the historic Byblos Amphitheatre, which dates back to the Roman period.

4. What is the best time of year to visit Byblos?

The best time to visit Byblos is during the spring (April-May) or fall (September-November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters can be rainy and cold.

5. What is the cuisine like in Byblos?

Lebanese cuisine is known for its fresh and flavorful dishes, and Byblos is no exception. Visitors can enjoy traditional Lebanese mezze (small dishes), grilled meats and fish, and a variety of vegetarian options. Some popular local dishes to try include tabbouleh, hummus, and baba ghanoush.

6. What are some popular day trips from Byblos?

Byblos is situated in a beautiful coastal region of Lebanon, with many other towns and cities worth exploring. Some popular day trips from Byblos include:

• Tripoli

This historic city on the coast features a 14th-century citadel, an ancient souk, and numerous mosques and churches.

• Batroun

This charming seaside town is known for its beautiful beaches, historic churches, and vibrant nightlife.

• Jeita Grotto

This series of underground caves and caverns is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Lebanon and features stunning rock formations and underground lakes.

7. What is the currency used in Byblos?

The currency used in Lebanon is the Lebanese pound (LBP), although US dollars and euros are also widely accepted.

8. What is the language spoken in Byblos?

The official language of Lebanon is Arabic, but many people in Byblos also speak French and English.

9. Is Byblos safe for tourists?

Lebanon has a history of political instability and occasional violence, but Byblos is considered to be a safe destination for tourists. Visitors should exercise the same caution as they would in any large city, such as being aware of their surroundings and avoiding isolated areas at night.

10. How do I get to Byblos?

Byblos is easily accessible by car or public transportation from Beirut. Buses run regularly between the two cities, while taxis and private drivers are also available. Visitors can also fly into Beirut’s Rafic Hariri International Airport and then take a taxi or private driver to Byblos.

How To Spend Your Time As A Tourist In Byblos

Byblos, also known as Jbeil, is an enchanting ancient city located approximately 37 kilometers north of Beirut, Lebanon’s capital city. Byblos is one of the most popular destinations in Lebanon and is known for its rich history, stunning beaches, and lively atmosphere. Whether you’re visiting for a day or a week or more, there is plenty to see and do in Byblos. Here’s a guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Byblos.

1. Visit the Byblos Castle

Byblos Castle, also known as the Crusader Castle, is one of Byblos’s main attractions. Dating back to the 12th century, it’s one of the best-preserved examples of Crusader architecture in the world. It’s situated on a hill overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and provides a breathtaking view. You can take a guided tour of the castle and learn about its history and the archaeological discoveries made in and around it.

2. Explore Byblos’ Old Souks

Byblos’ old souks are an excellent place to explore, especially if you’re looking for some souvenirs to take back home. The souks are a maze of narrow streets and alleys lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. You can find handcrafted souvenirs such as pottery, handmade soap, and jewelry.

3. Swim at Byblos Beaches

Byblos is home to some of Lebanon’s most beautiful beaches. The area boasts clear blue waters, white sand, and an array of activities such as water sports. The beaches offer a family-friendly environment making them a popular tourist destination. Standout beaches include Amchit beach located 5 minutes from Byblos and the Sporting Club beach.

4. Take a Walking Tour of the Ancient City

Byblos is an ancient city with a rich history that dates back to the Bronze Age. A walking tour is an excellent way to explore and learn about the city’s history. You can visit the ancient Phoenician port, the Roman amphitheater, and the Wax Museum. The Wax Museum features lifelike statues of famous historical figures from the Phoenician era. You can also visit the St. John the Baptist Church, one of Lebanon’s oldest churches.

5. Take a Trip to the Jeita Grotto

The Jeita Grotto is a series of underground caves located approximately 18 kilometers north of Byblos. The grotto is one of Lebanon’s most striking natural wonders and features impressive limestone formations that you won’t find anywhere else. You can take a guided tour of the grotto, which includes a boat ride through the cave’s underground river.

6. Go Wine Tasting in Batroun

Batroun is a coastal town located approximately 20 kilometers north of Byblos. The town is known for its wineries and vineyards, making it a popular destination for wine tasting enthusiasts. You can visit the wineries and learn about the wine making process and the different types of grapes grown in the region.

7. Enjoy Lebanese Cuisine

Lebanese cuisine is known all over the world for its rich flavors and exotic ingredients. Byblos, being a coastal town, offers a variety of seafood dishes, including raw fish and grilled octopus. If you’re looking to taste Lebanese cuisine, there are many restaurants and cafes throughout the city that serve traditional dishes.

Book Your Tour Now

Byblos is a city full of rich history, stunning beaches, and lively entertainment options. With such a diverse range of activities, there is never a dull moment in Byblos. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day at the beach or an action-packed tour of the city’s historical landmarks, there’s something for everyone in Byblos. Plan your trip and enjoy exploring this fascinating city.