- FCDO advises against all travel to the south, parts of Beirut's southern suburbs, much of the Beqaa and the far north
- Most other areas carry warnings too, so check gov.uk first
- Middle East Airlines flies direct from Heathrow
- When it is safe, Lebanon offers mountains, ruins and superb food in a small area
- Airports
- Beirut-Rafic Hariri International (BEY), about 20 minutes from central Beirut
- Flight time
- about 5h from London direct
- Best time to go
- April-June and September-October
- Currency
- Lebanese pound (LBP); US dollars widely used
Lebanon is a small country with an outsized reputation. In a day you can go from the Mediterranean coast to snow-capped mountains, and in a week you can see Phoenician harbours, some of the best-preserved Roman temples anywhere, ancient cedar forests and Beirut, a city of resilient spirit, restaurants and nightlife. Lebanese food, from mezze spreads to man'oushe at breakfast, is reason enough to come.
Important: following the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, the FCDO advises against all travel to the South and Nabatiyeh governorates, parts of Beirut's southern suburbs (excluding the airport road), much of the eastern Beqaa and Baalbek-Hermel, and northern Akkar, and against all but essential travel to several other areas, including parts of the Chouf and Tripoli. Consular support is severely limited where the FCDO advises against travel, and your insurance may be invalidated. Read the GOV.UK foreign travel advice for Lebanon before planning. For the wider region, see our Middle East guide.
Lebanon is two hours ahead of the UK. Plugs are types C, D and G, traffic drives on the right, and Arabic, French and English are widely spoken.
Why go
- Beirut: the Corniche and Pigeon Rocks, the National Museum, Gemmayzeh and Mar Mikhael's bars and restaurants.
- Byblos (Jbeil): one of the oldest continuously inhabited towns in the world, with a Crusader castle, old souq and fishing harbour.
- Baalbek: colossal Roman temples to Jupiter and Bacchus, a UNESCO site; it currently lies in an area covered by FCDO warnings.
- Jeita Grotto: spectacular limestone caves explored on foot and by boat.
- The Cedars and Qadisha Valley: ancient cedar groves and a valley of cliffside monasteries.
- Batroun: a laid-back coastal town with beaches, seafood and a Phoenician sea wall.
- Tyre and Sidon: Roman and Crusader ruins on the southern coast, currently within areas the FCDO advises against.
Where to stay
- Beirut (Achrafieh, Gemmayzeh, Hamra): the best range of hotels and the easiest base for day trips.
- Byblos and Batroun: boutique guesthouses near the sea.
- Mount Lebanon villages: cooler mountain stays and guesthouses in summer.
- Faraya and Mzaar: ski chalets and hotels for winter skiing.
Getting there
Middle East Airlines flies direct from London Heathrow to Beirut in around five hours. One-stop options run via Istanbul, Paris and other European hubs. Flights have been cancelled at short notice during periods of conflict, so follow your airline's updates. British passport holders can usually get a free visa on arrival at Beirut airport; evidence of travel to Israel can lead to refusal of entry. Taxis and drivers are the usual way to get around.
Good to know
- Money: after the financial crisis, many businesses price in US dollars; bring cash, as cards and ATMs can be unreliable.
- Food: mezze of hummus, tabbouleh and kibbeh, man'oushe at breakfast, and wines from the Beqaa Valley.
- Diversity: Lebanon has 18 recognised religious communities, so dress modestly at religious sites and be sensitive about politics.
- Electricity: power cuts are common, though most hotels have generators.
- Guides: a reputable local driver-guide can advise on which areas are open and safe on the day.
Best time to visit
April to June and September to October are warm and pleasant on the coast and in the mountains. July and August are hot and humid in Beirut but ideal in the hills. Winter brings rain to the coast and snow to the ski resorts, usually from December to March.
Carry US dollars in small notes, as cash is still king in many shops and restaurants after the banking crisis.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to travel to Lebanon?
The FCDO advises against all travel to several regions and all but essential travel to others. Read gov.uk carefully, check your insurer will cover you, and monitor the news during your stay.
Do UK citizens need a visa for Lebanon?
British passport holders can usually get a free visa on arrival, provided they have a return ticket and no evidence of travel to Israel. Check current rules before you go.
Is Beirut airport open?
Beirut airport has stayed open through much of the recent conflict, with the FCDO excluding the airport road from its warnings, but flights can be disrupted at short notice.
What is the best way to get around Lebanon?
Hire a car with driver or use ride-hailing apps. Distances are short, but traffic in and around Beirut is heavy.
Written by
Anna Beach, family & practical travel editor
Anna knows which beach has shade at 3pm and which car hire excess is a rip-off. She covers sun, islands, family trips and practical travel tips.
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