Lebanon is not your typical Mediterranean getaway, and that is exactly what makes it extraordinary. If you are looking for a 7 days in Lebanon itinerary that goes beyond surface-level tourism, you are in the right place. This guide combines the vibrant chaos of the nightlife in Beirut with the ancient silence of mountain monasteries.
You will discover Roman ruins that rival anything in Europe and coastal towns that have transformed into tourism powerhouses. There are logistics to navigate, such as the cash economy, connectivity, and safety considerations. However, the rewards are immense. You will enjoy eating legendary meat pies in Baalbek and partying in defiant bars in Mar Mikhael. This itinerary uses a strategic split-base approach to minimize time in traffic. It maximizes authentic experiences across the most stable and spectacular regions of the country.
Day 1: Arrival In Beirut And Mar Mikhael’s Resilient Nightlife
Your 7 days in Lebanon itinerary begins with sensory overload the moment you land at Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport. To ease the transition, you should pre-book a private airport transfer. This costs between twenty and thirty dollars. It is better than dealing with aggressive taxi touts at arrivals. This provides immediate psychological relief and ensures a smooth start to your journey.
Check into Baffa House in Mar Mikhael. This is a heritage home from the 1940s that offers authentic Lebanese hospitality. This guesthouse features Bauhaus-style architecture with high ceilings painted in traditional colors. It is owned by filmmaker Samer and graphic designer Jessica. Reviews consistently highlight the home away from home atmosphere. Communal breakfasts prepared by the host’s mother feature local cheeses and homemade jams. It is located on a quiet side street, making it a peaceful sanctuary.
Exploring The Art And Streets
Spend your afternoon walking the St. Nicolas Stairs, also known as the Escalier de l’Art. These stairs connect Gemmayzeh to Sursock. It is a living gallery of the architectural history of Beirut. Ottoman villas crumble next to sleek modern high-rises.
Use this time to exchange money at a Sarraf, or money changer, on Armenia Street. Look for shops with electronic boards displaying rates. You can also ask your guesthouse host for recommendations on where to exchange cash safely.
Evening: The Defiant Spirit Of Mar Mikhael
For dinner, head to Baron. Chef Athanasios Kargatzidis serves modern Mediterranean sharing plates here. The roasted cauliflower with tahini and pomegranate is iconic. The place strikes a perfect balance between unpretentious and world-class dining.
Post-dinner, visit Dead End Paradise. This is an Asian tiki dive bar that embodies the ethos of partying amidst the ruins. It was originally Electric Bing Sutt before the explosion in August 2020. It was rebuilt in a literal dead-end alley. The cocktails are high-concept, but the vibe is gritty and real. Their motto captures the rebellious spirit perfectly.
Logistics note: Lebanon operates on a dual-currency Fresh Dollar economy. Bring at least five hundred dollars in small denominations. Bills must be crisp and of a recent design. Drivers and small shopkeepers rarely have change for large bills.
Day 2: Byblos (Jbeil) And Ancient Phoenician History
Depart Beirut for Byblos, located forty kilometers north. This UNESCO World Heritage site claims to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. It is the birthplace of the Phoenician alphabet. You are literally walking where history was written on this leg of your 7 days in Lebanon itinerary.
Enter the Byblos Citadel to experience a visual layer cake of civilizations. You will see Neolithic huts, Egyptian temples, Roman columns, and Crusader ramparts. These are all visible in one panoramic view. The vista from the top of the castle tower defines Lebanese history in a single frame.
Where To Eat In Byblos
Skip the tourist-trap restaurants lining the ancient harbor. They often have inflated prices and mediocre food. Navigate into the winding stone souks to find Feniqia. Travelers consistently praise its authentic atmosphere.
Look for specific dishes like Foukhara, which is meat cooked in clay pots, and Kishek. The warm lighting and rustic stone interior contrast sharply with the aggressive harbor touts. Another excellent option is Adonai, known for its genuine local vibe.
Sunset Culture At Kina Or Oasis
The Lebanese summer revolves around the sunset drink. Head to Kina Handcrafted Bar or Oasis. These are open-air terraced bars overlooking the sea. Kina is described as a hidden gem with live music and magical views.
It perfectly encapsulates the Levantine good life of cocktails, sea breeze, and golden light. Instead of driving back to Beirut, continue north to Batroun. This will be your base for the next three nights to avoid traffic.
Day 3: Batroun’s Beaches, Phoenician Walls And Nightlife
Batroun has transformed from a sleepy fishing village into a major destination. It is a highlight of any 7 days in Lebanon itinerary. Start at Elie’s Yard in the old souk for a quintessential Lebanese breakfast. Order the Manouche Saj, which is thyme or cheese flatbread cooked on a domed griddle.
Rent a bicycle or golf cart to explore. Batroun is best seen on two wheels. Cycle to the Phoenician Wall. This is a natural sea wall reinforced by the Phoenicians thousands of years ago. It connects you directly to ancient maritime trade.
The Legendary Batroun Lemonade
You absolutely cannot skip the lemonade in Batroun. Hilmi’s is virtually a museum dedicated to this regional specialty. The Batroun style involves macerating lemon zest with sugar to release the oils. This results in a creamy and intense flavor. It is completely distinct from American lemonade.
Beach Options: From Local To Luxury
Pierre & Friends is the legendary choice just north of Batroun. It is a beach bar famous for a laid-back atmosphere and excellent seafood. For upscale pool service and sunbeds, try Butler’s Beach Club. If you prefer a genuine local vibe, Ray’s at Bahsa Beach delivers great food without pretension.
Evening: Sunset At Bolero
Bolero is repeatedly cited as a favorite spot for travelers. It features a grassy garden setting right on the water. The vibe is lively without being aggressive. For dinner, choose Le Marin for seafood right on the water. Alternatively, try Bistr’eau for modern culinary experiences.
Stay at Beit Al Batroun. This is a bed and breakfast with limestone architecture and vaulted ceilings. Reviews describe it as an oasis of calm.
Day 4: Qadisha Valley’s Sacred Monasteries And Cedars
Today you escape the coastal humidity for the cool mountain air. The Qadisha Valley, or Holy Valley, is a UNESCO site. It served as a refuge for Maronite monks for centuries. Hire a driver for the day. The drive from Batroun takes about an hour but transports you to a different world.
Hiking Through Sacred History
The most experiential way to see the valley during your 7 days in Lebanon itinerary is on foot. The recommended trail runs from Hawqa village down to the Monastery of St. Marina. It then continues to Deir Qannoubin. This served as the seat of the Maronite Patriarch for centuries.
The ancient frescoes in the church create an atmosphere of profound spirituality. The hike is moderate but requires sturdy shoes. If hiking is not your preference, you can drive down to Deir Mar Elisha.
Lunch With Valley Views
River Rock Restaurant in Bcharre consistently receives stellar reviews. Travelers cite astounding views of the waterfall and valley. The food is authentic Lebanese mezze. It is fresh, abundant, and high quality. For a cooler experience deep in the valley, try Al Naher Restaurant by the river.
The Cedars Of God
Visit the Cedars of God reserve. Some trees here exceed two thousand years in age. These national emblems create a spiritual atmosphere. Follow this with a visit to the Gibran Museum in Bcharre. It houses the tomb and paintings of Khalil Gibran. Return to Batroun for the night or stay in a mountain lodge.
Day 5: Baalbek’s Roman Temples And Bekaa Valley Wine
This day features the most impressive archaeological site in the Middle East. It is also the most logistically sensitive day of your 7 days in Lebanon itinerary. The Bekaa Valley requires awareness. Stick to the main highway and travel with a knowledgeable local driver.
The Incomprehensible Scale Of Baalbek
Drive across the Mount Lebanon range into the Bekaa Valley. The Baalbek ruins will exceed your expectations. The Temple of Bacchus is better preserved than the Parthenon. The Temple of Jupiter retains six of its original colossal columns. Hire a guide at the entrance to bring these stones to life.
The Culinary Pilgrimage To Lakkis Farm
You cannot visit Baalbek without eating Sfiha Baalbakiyeh at Lakkis Farm. This is an institution. They serve sfiha made from their own lamb. The meat mixture is baked on thin dough in a scorching stone oven. Travelers describe eating dozens of these bite-sized pies. It is widely considered the best sfiha in Lebanon.
Wine Tourism In The Bekaa
The Bekaa Valley is the wine heartland of Lebanon. Château Ksara is the oldest winery and is famous for its Roman caves. For boutique experiences, try Château Heritage or Domaine des Tourelles.
On your return route, visit Ixsir in the Batroun mountains. It was voted one of the most beautiful wineries in the world. It is built under a historic house to preserve the landscape. Return to Beirut for your final nights. Check into a hotel in Hamra or return to Mar Mikhael.
Day 6: The Chouf Mountains, Druze Heritage And Cedars
The Chouf region offers something culturally distinct from the North. It is quieter, greener, and steeped in Druze community history. Drive southeast to Beiteddine Palace. This is a masterpiece built by Emir Bashir Shihab II. The intricate mosaics and courtyards represent the Golden Age of the Emirate.
Continue to Deir al-Qamar, a preserved village with a charming cobblestone square. For lunch, try Mir Amin Palace Hotel for views. Alternatively, try Beit El Qamar for wholesome village-quality food.
Barouk Cedar Reserve
The Shouf Biosphere Reserve is the largest in Lebanon. Enter from the Barouk side to experience majestic cedars. The panoramic views stretch to the Bekaa Valley. It is a peaceful and well-organized eco-tourism site.
Return to Beirut for your final evening. For a farewell feast, book Em Sherif. The set menu of endless mezze epitomizes Lebanese hospitality and culinary refinement.
Day 7: National Museum And Final Departure
Your final day wraps up the cultural experience. Visit the National Museum of Beirut. It houses a world-class collection of Phoenician sarcophagi. Watch the documentary about how the curator saved the collection during the Civil War. It provides important context for understanding modern Lebanon.
Drive to Raouche to see the Pigeon Rocks. Walk the Corniche to enjoy the Mediterranean views. Explore Hamra Street to feel the intellectual energy of the neighborhood. For your final meal, go to Barbar. Whether you order Falafel or Shawarma, it is the authentic taste of Beirut streets.
Visit Orient 499 in Clemenceau for high-end artisanal crafts. Alternatively, explore boutiques in Saifi Village. Head to the airport three hours before your flight.
Essential Logistics For Your 7 Days In Lebanon Itinerary
The Fresh Dollar Economy Explained
Lebanon operates on a dual-currency system. The tourist infrastructure runs on Fresh Dollars. This refers to actual USD cash brought into the country. Pre-crisis bank balances hold little value.
Bring at least five hundred dollars in small denominations. Bills must be crisp. Any tear or ink mark results in rejection. While upscale venues accept credit cards, you will frequently need cash.
Connectivity: Your Digital Lifeline
Constant connectivity is non-negotiable for safety. The telecommunications duopoly consists of Touch and Alfa. They offer similar urban coverage. Touch has a slight edge in remote mountain regions like Qadisha Valley.
Avoid airport kiosks due to inflated prices. Visit an official Touch or Alfa store in Beirut. For eSIM convenience, Airalo works well but costs slightly more.
Transportation And Safety
Driving in Lebanon is frequently described as chaotic. Infrastructure suffers from potholes and lack of lighting. Self-driving is strongly discouraged for first-time visitors. In Beirut, Uber is safest for short trips. Always select cash as the payment method.
For inter-city travel, private drivers are the gold standard. They transform transit time into cultural exchange. They act as fixers and security advisors.
Safety Considerations
There are geographic risk zones to avoid. These include border strips and specific refugee camps. Stable areas include Beirut, the coast, and the Christian mountains. Your private driver acts as a security buffer. Enroll in the STEP program for real-time alerts.
Completing this 7 days in Lebanon itinerary changes your perspective on the Middle East. This is not a sanitized destination; it is a place where history, hardship, and hedonism coexist in a beautiful tangle. You have navigated the cash economy, witnessed the scale of Roman engineering, and shared meals that represent centuries of culinary tradition.
From the quiet sanctity of the Qadisha Valley to the electric energy of Mar Mikhael, you have experienced the true resilience of the Lebanese spirit. The logistics may be complex, but they are the price of admission for one of the most rewarding travel experiences on the planet. As you depart, you take with you more than just photos; you take a genuine understanding of the Levant.
