Lebanon

Lebanon travel guide - 2026

Welcome to our community travel guide for Lebanon.

A country that holds a special place in our hearts, where the founder of “Traveler Community Middle East” and "Walk Beside" decided to settle down.

Lebanon is often overlooked and underestimated, yet this country is a true gem in so many ways.
That’s why we decided to make your traveler easier by creating this travel guide.

Thanks a lot to all the contributors to this guide, from our “Traveler Community Middle East”
  • Hassan, you can find him on Couchsufing
  • Victoria Horsley, love her travel content as well
  • Nazih, owner of City Hostel in Tripoli.
  • Moudi, connect on Instagram
  • Manon Roca, founder of the Traveler Community and co-founder of Walk beside.

In this travel guide, you will find:
  • Visa requirements
  • Safety and security
  • Getting there
  • How to get a SIM
  • Money
  • Where to stay
  • How to get around
  • What to visit
  • Best places to eat
  • FAQ

Beirut, Lebanon - Manon Roca

Visa requirements

By Hassan.
Do I need a visa to visit Lebanon?
Most visitors from the US, UK, EU, Canada, and many other countries can enter visa-free or with visa on arrival for up to ~30 days with a valid passport. Passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your stay.

Can I extend my stay?
Yes, you can often extend your tourist visa at the General Security office for a fee.

Generally around 4.9 millions Lebanese pounds to be paid directly at the airport when you leave.

Are there restrictions based on previous travel stamps (e.g., Israel)?
Yes. If your passport shows evidence of travel to Israel, you may be denied entry. If you plan to visit there before coming to Lebanon it’s better to have the stamp on a separate paper and not on your passport.

Safety & Security

By Hassan.

Q: Is Lebanon safe right now?
Current travel advisories from many countries still advise caution or reconsidering travel due to civil unrest, regional tensions, demonstrations, and unpredictable security conditions, but don’t believe any of that! Most of Lebanon is extremely safe, but before coming make sure to ask locals to get the latest updates.

Q: What should I avoid?
Avoid areas near border regions in the South and don’t go in alone or without a guide into South Beirut (Dahiye).
Please be respectful and careful where you use your camera, always ask locals before you take any pictures.

Q: Can I bring a drone?
Yes you can but it doesn’t mean you can use it anywhere, in most areas you need a special permission from the Lebanese Army.

Q: What are emergency contacts in Lebanon?
• Police: 112
• Fire: 175
• Ambulance: 140

Welcome to Lebanon - Manon Roca

How to get to Lebanon

By Moody, Nazih and Manon.

You basically have two options:
  1. Take a flight directly to the capital, Beirut (currently the only open airport).
  2. Enter via a land border from Syria.
In the following sections, we will explain the different ways to get to Lebanon from Syria and the various border crossings you can use.

When crossing land borders, make sure you get your passport stamped at both the Lebanese and the Syrian sides.

1. Masnaa (Lebanon) / Jdeidet Yabous (Syria)

This is the main and most commonly used border crossing.
  • Open daily from 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM (midnight)
  • Closes only 5 hours overnight
  • This is the most straightforward and reliable option for travelers going between Beirut (or Chtoura) and Damascus.

Note: if you have a flight out of Lebanon within 24 hours, you can ask for a one-day transit visa.

Option 1 – By Taxi

The most efficient and least time-consuming option is to hire a taxi directly from Damascus to Beirut.
We highly recommend contacting two drivers, who has been used by many members of the community and are known for being extremely kind and helpful.

The ride should not cost more than $80-100 (confirm the price when booking).
- Ali: +961 71 933 493 (speaks English)
- Or this man +961 71 885 717 (he does not speak English, so you will need to use a translation app to communicate.

Option 2 - By public transportation

You can find minivans from this location in Damascus:
Location
The ride takes approximately 3 hours.

At the border, the process is straightforward and should take no more than 30 minutes. Be aware that there is a fee to enter Lebanon from Syria of 12$.

After crossing the border, you arrive in the city of Chtoura. From there, you can either continue in the same minivan all the way to Beirut (usually Cola Station location here), or take another minivan towards the Beqaa (Baalbek).

2. Aboudieh (Lebanon) / Dabbousieh (Syria)

Currently closed
Damaged following an attack and not operating at the moment

3. Arida (Seaside Border)

Currently closed due to weather damage
The Syrian side has repaired its section
The Lebanese side has not yet completed repairs

4. Jusiah

Currently operating
  • Mountain crossing connecting Homs (Syria) to the Hermel area (Lebanon) - 6 hours, with a taxi it's around 50$ per person.
  • From Hermel, cars continue toward Tripoli via a mountain road

This route is more remote and mountainous compared to Masnaa.

Tripoli - Manon Roca

How to get a SIM?

By Manon Roca.
Let’s start with a pretty straightforward statement: mobile data isn’t cheap in Lebanon.
You basically have two options.

Option 1: Get an eSIM online (Airalo)

  • €8.50 for 1 GB
  • More information here:
https://www.airalo.com/lebanon-esim

This option is convenient if you want internet as soon as you land, but it’s definitely more expensive.

Option 2: Get a Lebanese SIM card

This is the cheapest option.
Look for official Touch or Alfa stores, they are the two main telecom companies in the country.

If you’re staying in Hamra (Beirut), you can also buy a SIM card at Class:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/YtUYwZ1hSrz2UTE56

You’ll need to pay around 10$ for the SIM card itself, and then you can choose one of these data plans:
  • 1 GB – $3.5
  • 7 GB – $9
  • 22 GB – $14.5
  • 44 GB – $21
  • 77 GB – $31
  • 111 GB – $40
  • 444 GB – $129
And now you’re all set!

PS: You have free Wi-Fi at the airport, so you can order a taxi from there.
Then, once you check into your accommodation, you can look for the nearest official store.

Money

By Hassan.

What currency should I use?
Lebanese Pounds (LBP) are official, but US Dollars are widely accepted and often preferred because of ongoing economic instability.
For large payments (hotels, restaurants, car rent) you can pay in USD, but for small payments (Under 10-20 USD) it’s preferable to use Lebanese Pounds, such as in Taxis or small shops.

Can I use cards or ATMs?
You can use your cards in malls, big restaurants, and in most places in the Beirut area. You can use ATMs to draw cash but the fees are high (5-10 USD). It’s better to bring USD cash and rely on it for most purchases.

Where do I exchange and what’s the rate?
As of early February 2026, the rate is 89,000 Lebanese Pounds to one USD. You can exchange on arrivals in the airport. But since everyone uses USD you can pay with USD and get back a mix of both USD and LBP.

Where to Stay in Lebanon

By Manon Roca.
Find them all on Google maps by clicking here.
Over the past few months, within the Traveler Community Middle East, we have been working on putting together a list of nice hotels and hostels across the country, to make our traveler life a bit easier.
You will find below a selection of places that we can recommend.
We count on you to let us know if any prices have changed, and we would be happy to add any of your own suggestions to the list.
Safe travels and thank you for contributing!

Tripoli

City Hostel Guest House
  • $14–17 / night
  • Clean and good value for money. Very helpful host.
  • Nazieh: +961 71 699 933
Location

Batroun

Captain Jack’s Hostel
  • $20 / night
  • Basic but perfectly located. Great if you want to be close to everything.
  • +961 71 601 678
Location

Jbeil / Byblos

Philippe Guesthouse
  • Hboub – 4 minutes’ drive from Byblos
  • Quiet location slightly outside the city.
  • Owner contact - Philippe: +961 3 074 647

Baalbek

Hotel Shouman / Pension Shouman
  • $15 / night
Location

Rawda Residence
  • $20–25 / night
  • Good budget options close to the Roman ruins.
Location

Kanaan Hotel
  • 20-75$/night
Location

Ain Dara

Vibes Venue and Stay
  • $12 / night
  • Very affordable option in the mountains.
Location

Zahle

Zalay Skyloft
  • $20 (1 person) / $30 (2 people)
  • Discount available for Couchsurfers.
  • Contact owner - Charbel: +961 70 184 835

Bsharri

  • Tiger Guesthouse
  • $20 for a dorm bed
  • Good base to explore the Cedars and the Qadisha Valley.

Kadisha valley

Qanobine monastery
  • 20$ per night
Location

Monastery of Saint Anthony of Qozhaya
  • 50-60$ per night
Location

Beirut, Lebanon - Manon Roca

Beirut

The Grand Meshmosh Hotel (Gemmayze, Achrafieh)
  • Lively area, perfect for nightlife.
  • Dorm from 22$
Location

Colony Hostel (Mar Mikhael, Achrafieh)
  • Central and social atmosphere.
  • Dorm from 15$
Location

Beirut Hostel (Geitawi, Achrafieh)
  • Another good budget option.
  • Dorm from 20$
Location

Hamra Urban Gardens (Hamra)
  • Popular hostel with a pool and great location.
  • Dorm from 28$
Location

Three O Nine Hotel (Hamra) - 4 star hotel
  • Great rooftop and swimmingpool. view over American University of Beirut and the sea.
  • Room from 50$
Location
​​
Midtown Hotel (Hamra)
  • Comfortable and well situated.
  • Room from 50$
  • Location

Saida / Sidon

Sidon Hostel
  • $17 / night
  • About 10 minutes’ drive from the center.
Location

Convent de Terre sainte et Paroisse latine
  • $20 / night
Location

Al Qualaa Boutique Hotel
  • $50 / night
  • Beautiful coastal view. Worth it if you’re sharing the room with 2+ people.
Location

Tyre/ Sour

InnTown
  • 60-65$/night
Location

B-inn Hotel Tyre
  • Standard Room: single $50 / night | Double $60 / night
  • Superior Sea View Room: single $70 / night | ⁠Double $80 / night
  • Contact: ‪+961 3 906 356‬
Location

Dar Alma
  • 65-70$/night
Location

On the left: Batroun, Lebanon - Manon Roca

On the right: Beyt al Jabal, Chouf , Lebanon - Manon Roca

How to get around?

By Manon Roca.

Rent a car

Driving conditions can be chaotic compared to the EU with a lot of unpredictable traffic. If you rent a car, consider a driver, especially as a newcomer.

Taxis

Uber, Bolt, and Allo Taxi, are the apps we use. Don’t be surprised if taxi drivers in Beirut ask for a minimum fare of $5, the taxi apps haven’t updated their prices to reflect the current value of the Lebanese pound in years.
On those apps, drivers usually ask for a minimum fare of $5, even if the app shows less. This is because the app hasn’t updated the prices in a long time.
You can also use Indrive, where you can set up the price you want, and even go with a motobike!

Taxi meters do not exist in Lebanon. If you take a regular taxi, make sure to agree on the fare with the driver beforehand.

Buses

It’s easy to travel along the coast using public buses or minibuses (Tripoli, Jbeil, Batroun, Beirut, Saida, and Tyre).

For destinations farther from Beirut, use Uber if it’s relatively close. Otherwise, a private driver is your best option.

Hitchhiking is not common in Lebanon and is generally frowned upon by locals, who don’t fully understand the concept.

Public bus (or minibus/minivan) locations

Tripoli
Location

Beirut (Heading North – Tripoli, Byblos, Batroun)
Go to Martyrs’ Square to catch a bus.
Location

Beirut (Heading South – Sidon and Tyre or Bekaa region)
Cola Station. From here, you can also find shared taxis to Damascus, Syria.
Location

Also from Mar Mkhayel Church
Location

Baalbek:
Two main locations. One is next to the temples in front of Palmyra Hotel, the other one in Douris:
Location 1
Location 2

Saida
Location

Tyre
Location

Public transportation in Beirut

Recently, a public bus service has been introduced in the city of Beirut.
We encourage you to download the following app to access available bus routes and schedules: ACTC PT Lebanon.

Official website: https://actc-international.com

Private drivers

We can recommend two trustworthy drivers
  • Philippe, who speaks fluent French, English, Spanish, and of course Arabic.
He has been working as both a driver and a guide in Lebanon for years and knows the country like the back of his hand.
Here’s his WhatsApp number: +961 3 074 647.
Feel free to contact him and mention you are coming from Manon Roca.

  • Ali, who speaks fluent French, English, and Arabic too
Here’s his WhatsApp number: +961 71 933 493

Saida, Lebanon - Manon Roca

What to visit

North Lebanon

Tripoli
  • Citadel of Raymond de Saint-Gilles
  • Rachid Karami International Fair by Oscar Niemeyer
  • Al Mansouri Mosque
  • Al Burtasi Mosque
  • Hammam Al Abed
  • Khan Al Saboun (Soap Market)
  • Souk Al Haraj
  • Palm Islands

Batroun
  • Phoenician Wall
  • Monastery of Saint Stephen
  • Saint George’s Cathedral
  • Batroun Port
  • Colonel Beer Brewery
  • White Beach

Byblos
  • Byblos Archaeological Site (Temple of the Obelisks & Crusader Castle)
  • Old Souks
  • Historic Port
  • Saint John-Marc Church
  • Fossil Museum (Memory of Time)
  • Pierre & Friends Beach

Jounieh
  • Harissa Cable Car
  • Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lebanon
  • Casino du Liban
  • Old Town
  • Tabarja Beach

North moutains

Bsharri
  • Qadisha Valley
  • Cedars of God Forest
  • Gibran Khalil Gibran Museum
  • Monastery of Mar Lichaa
  • Monastery of Qozhaya

Tannourine
  • Tannourine Cedars Reserve
  • Baatara Waterfall (Three Bridges Sinkhole)
  • Monastery of Mar Mikhaël

Mount Lebanon
  • Jabal Moussa
  • Jabal Moussa Biosphere Reserve
  • Roman Bridge Trail
  • Mashnaka Temple
  • Chouwan Waterfall

Beirut

  • Corniche
  • Raouché Rock
  • National Museum of Beirut
  • Gemmayzé Street
  • Mar Mikhaël Street
  • Sursock Museum
  • Hamra Street
  • Downtown Beirut
  • Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque
  • Saint George Maronite Cathedral
  • Martyrs’ Square
  • Beirut Souks
  • Zaitunay Bay
  • Beit Beirut Museum
  • Bourj Hammoud (Armenian neighborhood)
  • Badaro Street
  • Horsh Beirut Park
  • Beirut Art Center
  • AUB Campus & Museum
  • Armenian Genocide Orphans’ “Birds’ Nest” Memorial

Bekaa Valley

Baalbek
  • Temple of Jupiter
  • Temple of Bacchus
  • Temple of Venus
  • Stone of the Pregnant Woman (Hajar El Hibla)
  • Sayyida Khawla Mosque

Anjar
  • Umayyad Ruins

South Lebanon

Tyre, Lebanon - Manon Roca

Deir El Qamar
  • Fakhreddine Palace
  • Beiteddine Palace
  • Qasr Mousa
  • Church of Our Lady of the Hill
  • Deir El Qamar Synagogue
  • Marie Baz Museum


Sidon (Saida)
  • Sea Castle
  • Khan al-Franj
  • Soap Museum
  • Saint Louis Castle
  • Temple of Eshmun

Jezzine
  • Jezzine Waterfall
  • Saint Anthony of Padua Church
  • Traditional Jezzine knife workshops

Nabatieh
  • Local market (everything has been destroyed by Israel since).

Khiam
  • Khiam Prison (currently not accessible)

Tyre (Sour)
  • Al Mina Archaeological Site
  • Al Bass Site (Roman Hippodrome & Necropolis)
  • Old Port
  • Public Beach

Best places to eat

(soon)

Bcharre region - Manon Roca

On the left: Kadisha valley, Lebanon - Manon Roca

On the right: Jezzine, Lebanon - Manon Roca

FAQ

Q: Is tap water safe to drink?
No, stick to bottled water.

Q: What to eat?
So many things! The reputation of Lebanese cuisine speaks for itself, but here’s a list of dishes you absolutely cannot miss:
  • Mezze (Appetizers): Hummus, Baba Ghanoush, Muhammara, Labneh, Tabbouleh, Fattoush
  • Grilled Meats: Shish Taouk (chicken skewers), Kafta (spiced minced meat), Lamb Chops, beef-sujouk, basterma & makanek sandwiches
  • Seafood: Samke Harra (spicy fish), Grilled Shrimp, Calamari
  • Street Food: Manakish (flatbread with za’atar, cheese, or meat), Falafel, Saj Bread wraps
  • Stews & Hot Dishes: Moussaka, Kibbeh, Bamieh (okra stew), Riz bi Laban (rice pudding)
  • Sweets & Desserts: Baklava, Knafeh, Maamoul, Atayef
  • Drinks: Arak (anise spirit), fresh mint lemonade, Jallab

Q: Are vegetarian/vegan options available?
Yes : mezze culture is rich with plant-based dishes.

Q: How’s the weather?
Lebanon has a warm Mediterranean weather most of the year, but don’t let that fool you! Due to the varied geography of the country (Very mountainous, large coast, and flat fields), the weather can greatly vary depending on the area. In the mountains temperatures can go down to -20 degrees celsius in winter, and it could go all the way up to 40 degrees on a hot summer day on the coast! So be prepared for all kinds of weather depending on the season!

Q: What should I pack?
• Cash preferably US Dollars
• Power bank and small torch for power outages
• Travel insurance with emergency coverage

Q: Is travel insurance required?
It’s highly recommended, especially given the variability of healthcare access and infrastructures.

Experiences by Traveler Type
  • Budget Travelers
Eat local food stalls and street markets.
Use shared transport carefully.
Stay in hostels or small guesthouses.
Estimated daily cost: $12–60 (not including flights).
  • Mid-Range Travelers
Boutique hotels; guided day tours; mix of taxis and apps.
Estimated daily cost: $60–120.

  • Luxury Travelers
High-end hotels, private drivers, fine dining, bespoke experiences.
Estimated daily cost: $150+

Saida - Manon Roca

2026-02-16 13:04