The Ultimate Lebanon Travel Cheat Sheet 2025: A Local’s Guide to BEY & Beyond

Introduction: Why Lebanon Captured My Heart

The first time I landed at Beirut’s Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY) back in 2018, I was completely unprepared for what awaited me. The chaotic beauty of Lebanon—with its mesmerizing coastline, ancient ruins, mountain retreats, and unforgettable cuisine—turned what was supposed to be a two-week trip into a month-long love affair with the country. Since then, I’ve returned seven times, staying with local friends in Hamra, navigating the complex transportation system (often getting delightfully lost), and discovering hidden gems that most tourists never see.

I still remember sitting at a tiny café in Gemmayzeh during my second visit, sipping on ahweh (Lebanese coffee) when an elderly man noticed my guidebook and spent two hours sharing stories of pre-war Beirut. That conversation changed how I saw the country forever. Now, after my most recent visit in late 2024, I’ve compiled this comprehensive cheat sheet to help you experience the real Lebanon in 2025—beyond the headlines and tourist traps.

“Lebanon is not a country, it’s a message,” Pope John Paul II once said. After multiple visits, I understand why: this tiny Mediterranean nation contains more diversity, history, and heart than countries ten times its size.

Essential Planning Before You Arrive at BEY

Planning your Lebanese adventure requires some strategic thinking. After making several mistakes during my first visit (including arriving during a national holiday when everything was closed!), I’ve learned what matters most when preparing.

Visa and Entry Requirements in 2025

Lebanon’s visa policy has evolved significantly since the pandemic. As of 2025, citizens from 80+ countries can receive a one-month visa on arrival at BEY. However, if your passport shows evidence of travel to Israel, you may be denied entry—this hasn’t changed.

• Visa on arrival cost: 30,000 LBP (approximately $20 USD) for most nationalities
• Required documents: Return ticket, hotel reservation (or invitation letter), and proof of sufficient funds
• COVID-19 requirements: As of 2025, no PCR tests are required, but policies can change suddenly

I once nearly missed my flight because I didn’t have a printed hotel reservation—digital copies on your phone aren’t always accepted by immigration officials. Don’t make my mistake!

Currency and Money in 2025

Lebanon’s economic situation remains complex. The currency has stabilized somewhat since the 2019-2022 crisis, but understanding the financial landscape is crucial:

• The official currency is the Lebanese Pound (LBP), but USD is widely accepted and sometimes preferred
• As of early 2025, the exchange rate hovers around 15,000 LBP to 1 USD
• ATMs dispense both LBP and USD, but withdrawal limits remain relatively low

Insider Tip: Bring new, unmarked USD bills in various denominations. I’ve had $20 bills rejected because of tiny tears or marks. Having clean bills saved me during a power outage when card machines weren’t working in Byblos.

Best Time to Visit Lebanon in 2025

After visiting during every season, I can confidently say the best times to visit are:

Season	Months	Pros	Cons
Spring	April-May	Perfect weather, blooming landscapes, moderate tourist numbers	Easter price increases
Early Summer	June	Beach season begins, festivals start	Increasing temperatures
Fall	September-October	Warm seas, grape harvest, lower prices	Some venues close after peak season
Winter	December-March	Ski season in the mountains, lowest prices	Rain in coastal areas, shorter days

During my June 2023 visit, I experienced the magical Baalbek International Festival in the ancient Roman ruins—a once-in-a-lifetime experience that justified the higher summer accommodation costs.

Navigating Beirut Like a Local in 2025

Beirut remains the chaotic, vibrant heart of Lebanon. Navigating this city efficiently will set the tone for your entire trip.

From BEY Airport to the City

Your introduction to Lebanon begins at BEY, located about 9km south of downtown Beirut. Your options for reaching the city:

1. Airport Taxi: White government taxis cost around 150,000 LBP ($10) to downtown. Insist on the meter or agree on a price before departing.
2. Ride-Hailing Apps: Bolt and Careem have replaced Uber as the dominant platforms and typically cost 20-30% less than regular taxis.
3. Private Transfer: Your hotel can arrange this for approximately 300,000 LBP ($20), but it’s the most hassle-free option after a long flight.

Money-Saving Insider Tip: On my fourth visit, I discovered that walking just 500 meters beyond the airport perimeter and requesting a Bolt from there cuts the price by almost 40% compared to ordering from inside the terminal. Just exit the airport and walk past the highway overpass—this saved me around $8.

Where to Stay in Beirut: Neighborhoods Beyond the Guidebooks

Forget the generic hotel recommendations. After staying in nearly every Beirut neighborhood, here’s my honest assessment for 2025:

• Hamra: Still the most convenient and lively area. Look for apartments around Makdessi Street rather than the main boulevard for a quieter sleep. My favorite local guesthouse is Baffa House where the owner, Samer, gives exceptional local tips.
• Mar Mikhael: Post-2020 explosion, this area has remarkably recovered. It remains the nightlife hub, but prices have increased. Best for young travelers who don’t mind noise.
• Gemmayze: More residential than Mar Mikhael but still walking distance to bars and restaurants. Airbnb apartments here offer the best value in central Beirut.
• Achrafieh: The upscale, more conservative district. Quieter with beautiful architecture. Perfect for families or those seeking more traditional Lebanese surroundings.
• Badaro: My personal favorite discovery on my fifth visit! This under-the-radar neighborhood has leafy streets, excellent cafés, and a local university vibe without the tourist markup.

During the 2024 summer heat wave, I regretted not booking a place with reliable air conditioning and generator backup (power cuts still occur). Always confirm these amenities before booking.

Speaking Lebanese: Essential Phrases

While many Lebanese speak excellent English and French, learning a few Arabic phrases goes a long way:

• “Marhaba” (mar-ha-ba) – Hello
• “Shukran” (shook-ran) – Thank you
• “Kifak/Kifik” (kee-fak/kee-fik) – How are you? (male/female)
• “Addeh?” (ad-deh) – How much?
• “Yalla” (yal-la) – Let’s go/Come on

When I used “tekram ‘aynek” (the pleasure is mine) after being thanked at a local bakery, the owner was so delighted he gave me extra ma’amoul cookies. These small linguistic efforts truly open doors!

Beyond Beirut: Lebanon’s Must-Visit Destinations in 2025

While Beirut deserves at least 3-4 days of your itinerary, the soul of Lebanon lies in its incredibly diverse regions. Each is easily accessible as a day trip, though I recommend overnight stays when possible.

Byblos (Jbeil): The Ancient Port City

Just 40km north of Beirut, Byblos claims to be the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world (7,000+ years). The perfectly preserved Crusader castle overlooking the Mediterranean is spectacular, but the real magic happens after 4pm when most tour groups leave.

Insider Tip: Skip the overpriced restaurants in the touristy harbor. Instead, head to Malki’s on the backstreets where locals eat. Their grilled fish sandwich costs just 60,000 LBP ($4) compared to 200,000+ LBP at harbor establishments, and it’s infinitely better.

Getting there: White service taxis from Beirut’s Charles Helou station cost 40,000 LBP ($2.70) each way. The trip takes 45-60 minutes depending on traffic.

Baalbek: Lebanon’s Archaeological Wonder

The Roman temples of Baalbek in the Bekaa Valley remain the most impressive ancient site in the Middle East. The Temple of Bacchus is better preserved than anything I’ve seen in Rome itself. As of 2025, security concerns have diminished significantly, making this UNESCO site accessible again.

• Entrance fee: 100,000 LBP ($6.70) for foreigners
• Best time to visit: Early morning (8-10am) before tour groups and heat
• Getting there: Private taxi (around 700,000 LBP round trip) or join a tour through Nakhal Tours

On my last visit, I stayed overnight at Hotel Palmyra—a historic hotel that hasn’t changed much since 1874 when European travelers began exploring these ruins. At 450,000 LBP ($30) per night including breakfast, it’s an atmospheric bargain.

The Cedars and North Lebanon

Lebanon’s iconic cedar trees (featured on the national flag) are found in several mountain reserves. The most accessible is The Cedars (Arz el-Rab) near Bcharre in North Lebanon. This region offers:

• The ancient cedar forest (some trees are 2,000+ years old)
• The Gibran Khalil Gibran Museum in his hometown
• The breathtaking Qadisha Valley (Holy Valley), a UNESCO site
• Winter skiing at Lebanon’s premier resort (December-March)

I made the rookie error of visiting without proper footwear during my first trip. The mountain paths are rocky and uneven—bring proper hiking shoes! Also, temperatures drop significantly in the mountains; I needed my jacket even in June.

South Lebanon: Tyre and Sidon

The southern coastal cities are less visited by tourists but contain some of Lebanon’s most beautiful sites. Tyre (Sour) features pristine Roman ruins right beside the Mediterranean and the cleanest beaches in the country.

Sidon (Saida) boasts an impressive Crusader sea castle and the best preserved old souks in Lebanon. The soap museum and Khan el-Franj caravanserai are highlights you shouldn’t miss.

Money-Saving Insider Tip: Public minibuses to Tyre cost just 35,000 LBP ($2.30) each way from Cola Station in Beirut. They run every 15 minutes and are perfectly safe, though sometimes crowded. This saves about 80% compared to private taxis!

Eating Your Way Through Lebanon in 2025

Lebanese cuisine deserves its world-class reputation. After seven trips of dedicated eating, I’ve developed strategies for experiencing the best food without breaking the bank.

Beyond Hummus: What to Order

Skip the international chains and tourist traps. Here’s what locals actually eat:

• Man’oushe: Lebanon’s breakfast staple—a flatbread topped with za’atar (thyme mix) or cheese. Best from neighborhood bakeries for 30,000-40,000 LBP ($2-2.70).
• Knefeh: Sweet cheese pastry soaked in sugar syrup, served in a sesame bread pocket for breakfast. El Nakib in Tripoli makes the country’s best.
• Saj: Thinner than man’oushe, cooked on a dome-shaped griddle. The mushroom and cheese variation changed my life.
• Mezze: Small plates including lesser-known delights like muhammara (red pepper dip) and shanklish (aged cheese balls).
• Kibbeh Nayyeh: Raw minced lamb with bulgur and spices—Lebanon’s version of steak tartare. Only eat at reputable restaurants.

The best sensory experience I had was watching the sun set over the Mediterranean from Samket Pierre in Batroun while eating freshly caught sea urchin, the briny taste perfectly complemented by local arak (anise liquor).

Where Locals Actually Eat in 2025

Forget the TripAdvisor top 10. Here’s where you’ll find authentic Lebanese food:

1. Tawlet (Beirut): A social enterprise where women from different Lebanese regions cook their village specialties. The Saturday farmer’s market brunch is legendary.
2. Barbar (Hamra): Open 24/7, this local institution serves the best shawarma in Beirut. The potato and chicken version at 3am saved me after many late nights.
3. Furn Beaino (Tripoli): This simple bakery in Lebanon’s northern city serves sfeeha (meat pies) worth traveling for.
4. Bouboufe (Jounieh): A no-frills grill house where local families feast on perfectly cooked meats at reasonable prices.
5. Abu Hassan (Mar Mikhael): An unmarked sidewalk cart serving only ful medames (fava bean stew) that appears at 6am and sells out by 9am. Just ask any local for directions.

Money-Saving Insider Tip: Lebanese portions are enormous. A mezze spread labeled “for two” easily feeds three hungry adults. I’ve saved 30% on dining costs by ordering less and still had to take leftovers. Most restaurants will happily pack remaining food.

Drinking in Lebanon: From Coffee to Arak

Lebanese drinking culture is sophisticated and varied:

• Coffee: Lebanese coffee (ahweh) is similar to Turkish style—strong, unfiltered, and served in tiny cups. Specify how sweet you want it when ordering.
• Wine: Lebanon produces exceptional wines, particularly from the Bekaa Valley. Chateau Musar and IXSIR are internationally acclaimed.
• Arak: The anise-flavored national spirit that turns cloudy when water is added. Respect its strength (50-60% alcohol)!
• Beer: Local brands Almaza and 961 are everywhere, but the craft beer scene is exploding with excellent Colonel and Eleni microbreweries.

During my most recent visit, I discovered jallab—a date syrup drink with pine nuts that’s perfect on hot days. Most traditional cafés serve it for around 30,000 LBP ($2).

Practical Travel Tips for Lebanon in 2025

Getting Around Lebanon Efficiently

Lebanon’s compact size means you can see a lot in a short time, but transportation requires strategy:

• Service Taxis: Shared taxis that run fixed routes within cities (15,000 LBP) and between cities (25,000-50,000 LBP). Flag one down by calling out your destination.
• Buses/Minivans: The cheapest option for intercity travel. Cola Station in Beirut is the main hub.
• Rideshare: Bolt and Careem work well in urban areas but may be unavailable in remote regions.
• Rental Cars: Only for the brave! Lebanese driving is creative and road signage is minimal. Expect to pay 600,000+ LBP ($40+) daily.

Money-Saving Insider Tip: I’ve saved hundreds by using the Lebanon Bus Map Project app (Android | iOS) which shows routes and approximate timings for Lebanon’s informal bus network. Getting to Jbeil (Byblos) by minibus costs 85% less than a private taxi.

Safety and Security in 2025

Despite its occasional appearance in headlines, Lebanon is generally safe for travelers who exercise common sense. Based on my experiences:

• Street crime targeting tourists is rare—I’ve felt safer walking at night in Beirut than in many European capitals
• Political demonstrations occasionally occur but are typically localized and peaceful
• Border regions with Syria and certain areas in South Lebanon should be approached with caution
• Avoid displaying obvious wealth or discussing sensitive political topics

During my 2022 visit, I accidentally wandered into a political demonstration in downtown Beirut. Rather than feeling threatened, I was offered coffee by protesters who were eager to explain their viewpoints and ensure I felt welcome.

Connectivity and Technology

Staying connected in Lebanon has improved dramatically since my first visit:

• SIM Cards: Available at the airport or from Touch and Alfa stores. A 10-day tourist package with 10GB data costs around 300,000 LBP ($20).
• Wi-Fi: Most hotels, cafés and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi, though reliability varies.
• Power: Despite improvements, power cuts remain common. Portable power banks are essential.
• Apps: Download Beirut Electricity to predict power cuts in different neighborhoods.

I once had to conduct an important video call during a scheduled power outage. The solution? I headed to Antwork coworking space in Hamra which has generator backup. For 75,000 LBP ($5), I purchased a day pass with guaranteed power and high-speed internet.

Sustainability in Lebanon

Lebanon faces environmental challenges, but there are ways to travel more responsibly:

• Refill water bottles at your hotel rather than buying plastic bottles (saves money and reduces waste)
• Support eco-friendly businesses like Beirut Riverless that organize clean-ups
• Choose accommodations that use solar power (increasingly common due to electricity shortages)
• Visit community-based tourism initiatives like the Lebanon Mountain Trail that support rural economies

One of my most memorable experiences was staying at Ouroummah Ecolodge in the Shouf Biosphere Reserve. This community-run lodge uses composting toilets, solar heating, and serves only local, seasonal food—all while charging less than chain hotels.

Conclusion: Your 5-Step Action Plan for Visiting Lebanon in 2025

After seven visits spanning seven years, I’ve distilled my Lebanon experience into this actionable plan:

1. Book smart: Schedule your visit during shoulder seasons (May or September) for optimal weather and prices. Reserve accommodations in Hamra or Badaro neighborhoods for the best balance of convenience and authenticity.
2. Prepare strategically: Bring both USD cash and cards. Download essential apps (Bolt, Lebanon Bus Map, offline Google Maps) before arrival. Learn 5-10 basic Arabic phrases.
3. Balance your itinerary: Allocate 3-4 days for Beirut, then alternate between coastal sites (Byblos, Tyre) and inland treasures (Baalbek, Cedars). Include at least one community tourism experience in a rural area.
4. Eat like a local: Start days with man’oushe from neighborhood bakeries. Enjoy one upscale meal at a place like Liza or Em Sherif, but prioritize family-run establishments. Always ask locals for recommendations.
5. Connect meaningfully: Lebanese hospitality is legendary but often untapped by tourists who stick to their comfort zones. Accept invitations for coffee, attend local events, and schedule enough downtime to embrace spontaneous experiences.

Lebanon isn’t just a destination—it’s a relationship. My first visit was full of mistakes: overpaying for taxis, eating at tourist traps, missing hidden gems. Each return trip has peeled back another layer of this complex, beautiful country. The Lebanon I know in 2025 bears little resemblance to the one-dimensional portrayals in media.

As we say in Lebanon, “Bukra mnitla’a“—tomorrow, we’ll work it out. This philosophy of resilience and optimism in the face of challenges captures the spirit of a country that continues to enchant me, seven visits later.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lebanon Travel

Is Lebanon safe for tourists in 2025?

Yes, Lebanon is generally safe for tourists who exercise normal precautions. The vast majority of the country welcomes visitors warmly. Avoid border regions with Syria, certain southern areas near Israel, and check your government’s travel advisories before booking. I’ve traveled extensively as a solo female traveler and encountered only hospitality and assistance.

How many days do I need to explore Lebanon?

A minimum of 7 days is recommended to experience Beirut and key highlights. My ideal recommendation is 10-14 days, which allows for deeper exploration including mountain villages, wine country, and less-visited areas like the Bekaa Valley and North Lebanon. With Lebanon’s compact size, you can cover significant ground even with a base in Beirut.

What’s the best way to get Lebanese currency in 2025?

Bring US dollars in cash and exchange small amounts as needed at exchange offices (not banks, which offer worse rates). ATMs dispense both LBP and USD, but withdrawal limits are often low. Credit cards are widely accepted in Beirut and tourist areas but may not work in rural regions. I typically bring $300-500 in cash and use cards for larger purchases.

Do I need to rent a car in Lebanon?

Not necessarily. Public transportation (service taxis, buses) reaches most tourist sites, and private drivers/guided tours are reasonably priced for more remote destinations. If you do rent, expect chaotic driving conditions and minimal adherence to traffic rules. After my first harrowing attempt at driving in Beirut traffic, I’ve relied on public transport and occasional private drivers for difficult-to-reach locations.

What should women pack for Lebanon?

Lebanon is more cosmopolitan than other Middle Eastern countries, particularly in Beirut where Western-style clothing is common. Pack normally for the season but include a light scarf for visiting religious sites and conservative outfits (covering shoulders and knees) for trips to rural areas. Beirut’s nightlife is sophisticated—pack at least one outfit suitable for upscale restaurants. During my summer visits, I wore typical summer dresses in Beirut but kept a light cardigan handy for more conservative regions.

Can I drink alcohol in Lebanon?

Yes, alcohol is widely available and legally consumed throughout Lebanon. The country produces excellent wines and has a vibrant cocktail culture. While it’s respectful to avoid drinking in more conservative areas, Beirut, coastal cities, and Christian regions have abundant bars and liquor stores. During Ramadan, many establishments continue to serve alcohol, though some may be more discreet during daylight hours.

References and Further Reading

1. Lonely Planet Lebanon – Comprehensive overview of destinations and practical information
2. Lebanon Traveler – Magazine featuring local insights and off-the-beaten-path destinations
3. Ministry of Tourism Lebanon – Official government tourism portal with updated information
4. Live Lebanon – Community development initiatives tourists can visit or support
5. @lebanontraveler – Instagram account highlighting visual experiences across the country
6. Lebanon Mountain Trail Association – Information on hiking the 470km trail across Lebanon’s mountains
7. The961 – News and cultural website with updated information on events and changes
8. Road Lebanon – Specialized site for self-driving with detailed route information
9. Lebtivity – Event listing platform to find concerts, exhibitions and local happenings
10. Taste Lebanon – Culinary tours and food information
11. Zomato Beirut – Restaurant reviews and menus with local recommendations
12. Beirut.com – Urban guide to events, new openings and city life