International
Lebanon History & Culture - 6 Nights 7 Days
Beirut, Byblos, Baalbek, Cedars
Lebanon packs incredible diversity into a small country - ancient Phoenician ports, Roman temples, Crusader castles, cedar forests, and Mediterranean beaches, all within hours of each other. Explore Baalbek's colossal Roman temples, among the largest and best-preserved in the world, with massive columns and intricate stonework that astound archaeologists. Visit Byblos, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities (7,000+ years), with Phoenician ruins, Crusader castle, and charming old souk. Discover Beirut's vibrant fusion of ancient and modern - Roman baths beside designer boutiques, Ottoman architecture next to trendy cafes. The cosmopolitan capital rebuilt after civil war showcases Lebanese resilience. Trek the famous Cedars of God, ancient trees mentioned in biblical texts and Lebanon's national symbol. Explore Jeita Grotto's spectacular limestone caves with underground rivers. Experience Lebanese cuisine, considered finest in Middle East, with mezze spreads, fresh seafood, and world-class wines from Bekaa Valley vineyards. Lebanon offers rich history, stunning mountain and coastal scenery, delicious food, and warm hospitality in a compact, accessible destination.
Day 1:
Arrive Beirut, settle in boutique hotel. Afternoon walk Corniche seaside promenade, visit Pigeon Rocks natural formation. Evening Gemmayzeh or Mar Mikhael neighborhoods for trendy restaurants and nightlife|
Day 2:
Beirut full day - morning visit National Museum with extensive Phoenician and Roman artifacts. Tour downtown reconstruction area: Roman baths, Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque, Maronite Cathedral. Afternoon Sursock Museum in Ottoman mansion. Evening mezze dinner in traditional restaurant|
Day 3:
Day trip to Byblos (40km north). Explore ancient Phoenician port, Crusader castle, restored old souk with artisan shops. Lunch at harbor seafood restaurant. Continue to Jeita Grotto (20km) - boat ride through lower cavern, walk upper galleries of stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Return Beirut|
Day 4:
Drive to Baalbek (85km east, 2 hours through Bekaa Valley). Explore Temple of Jupiter, Temple of Bacchus with incredibly preserved details, Temple of Venus. Largest Roman temple stones in world - mysterious how ancient builders moved them. Picnic in ruins area. Visit nearby wine chateau for tasting|
Day 5:
Drive north to Bsharri (130km, 3 hours). Visit Gibran Museum dedicated to Khalil Gibran (The Prophet author) in his hometown. Afternoon trek Cedars of God forest (UNESCO site) with trees over 1,000 years old. Stay mountain lodge|
Day 6:
Qadisha Valley (Holy Valley) hike visiting ancient monasteries carved into cliff faces. Cable car to Grotto of Qadisha. Afternoon drive to Tripoli (50km), explore medieval souks, Crusader castle, and traditional sweets shops famous for knafeh|
Day 7:
Coastal drive south through Sidon - visit Sea Castle and old souk. Continue to Tyre with Roman hippodrome, necropolis, and beaches. Return Beirut via Deir el Qamar and Beiteddine Palace (19th-century Ottoman architecture)|
Day 8:
Free day Beirut - optional skiing in winter (resorts 1 hour from city), beach clubs in summer, or shopping in Hamra district. Farewell dinner with Lebanese wine|