Things to do & places to visit in Beirut, Lebanon

Often called "Paris of the Middle East", Beirut is a thriving hotspot for shopping, socializing and sightseeing, despite many wars and unrest. The city has been rebuilt several times, with modern architecture sharing space with Ottoman and colonial French buildings. Bustling streets such as Hamra and Ashrafieh provide hopping nightlife while the National Museum and the Gibran Museum give visitors a taste of the city's history. The Corniche is the place for activities like jogging and biking.

Beirut #1 destination in Lebanon 2023. The average rating score is 4.24 based on 15.0k traveler reviews, of 30 attractions. Timezone: Asia/Beirut, current date and time: Friday, May 10, 2024, 7:31.

Beirut Weather Statistics view more »

General weather summary in May

77°F - 63°F

Temperature Highs - Lows

Mildly cool with a gentle breeze

Feels like

Chance of rain

27.0 millimeters

Amount

10.0 mph

Wind speed

55%

Humidity

13.9

Daylight length

5:37 AM

Sunrise

7:31 PM

Sunset

74%

Cloud cover

T-shirt

What to wear

Top things to do (14)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Mim Museum - Mineral Museum (323 reviews)
- Surprisingly beautyful
Friday: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums

mim is a private mineral museum in Beirut, Lebanon. It exhibits more than 1800 minerals, representing some 400 different species from over 70 countries. Created by nature itself, those works of art with their breathtaking aesthetics were formed in earth’s crust millions of years ago. Mr. Salim Edde has built up this collection starting 1997. You can discover pieces originating from a number of renowned collections --both old and more recent-- as well as from the major mining discoveries of our era. The mim collection is now considered to be one of the world's paramount private collections for the variety and quality of its minerals. A didactic circuit, accompanied by screens displaying films and scientific applications of mineralogy, will reveal a world of unsuspected marvels--priceless both from an aesthetic and scientific point of view. Mimodactylus libanensis “mimo”, the fossil of a pterodactyl is featured in a special wing. This one-of-a-kind complete specimen in the Middle-East was found in Lebanon. It is promoted by means of state-of-the-art modern techniques: a hologram, an auto-stereoscopic movie, a full-scale reconstitution and a game “fly with mimo” – an entertainment that delights children and adults. Moreover, mim hosts a thematic exhibition of 200 marine fossils. “Fish’n’Stone” was organized with the collaboration of Mémoire du Temps. Known throughout the world, those fossils were quarried in the Lebanese mountains. The history of the fossil formation is shown through an animation that submerses you in the marine life – a time capsule that takes you in a journey to some 100 million of years ago. See more..
5.0 Banque Du Liban Museum (112 reviews)
- Keep up the great work! 5/5
Friday: 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Speciality Museums

As someone who is broke and has always pushed for more social equality, I have to say, I LOVE what BDL has done. Young, old, married, single, muslim, christian... We’re all gonna be broke! We’ll all have the same income: 0. Isn’t that great?! There’s no wealth inequality if everyone’s poor, right? Ladies, there’s no wage gap if no one has any money either, am I right? Finally, we can all be equal. Riad Salamé is a true social justice hero. See more..
5.0 Mim Museum - Mineral Museum (323 reviews)
- Surprisingly beautyful
Friday: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums

mim is a private mineral museum in Beirut, Lebanon. It exhibits more than 1800 minerals, representing some 400 different species from over 70 countries. Created by nature itself, those works of art with their breathtaking aesthetics were formed in earth’s crust millions of years ago. Mr. Salim Edde has built up this collection starting 1997. You can discover pieces originating from a number of renowned collections --both old and more recent-- as well as from the major mining discoveries of our era. The mim collection is now considered to be one of the world's paramount private collections for the variety and quality of its minerals. A didactic circuit, accompanied by screens displaying films and scientific applications of mineralogy, will reveal a world of unsuspected marvels--priceless both from an aesthetic and scientific point of view. Mimodactylus libanensis “mimo”, the fossil of a pterodactyl is featured in a special wing. This one-of-a-kind complete specimen in the Middle-East was found in Lebanon. It is promoted by means of state-of-the-art modern techniques: a hologram, an auto-stereoscopic movie, a full-scale reconstitution and a game “fly with mimo” – an entertainment that delights children and adults. Moreover, mim hosts a thematic exhibition of 200 marine fossils. “Fish’n’Stone” was organized with the collaboration of Mémoire du Temps. Known throughout the world, those fossils were quarried in the Lebanese mountains. The history of the fossil formation is shown through an animation that submerses you in the marine life – a time capsule that takes you in a journey to some 100 million of years ago. See more..
4.5 Zaitunay Bay (2.139 reviews)
- The true view of beirut
Points of Interest & Landmarks

The Zaitunay Bay certainly exceeds all expectations and transcends the national borders to further polish Lebanon’s image and allow it to assume its rightful position as a touristic destination, but more importantly, as an exclusive and luxurious destination rivaling the best the world has to offer. Being the go-to place for all the Lebanese, Zaitunay Bay also inevitably is a prominent touristic destination. A must-see destination offering an array of various, cultural, leisure and social activities which finally brings back those faded photographs of Lebanon into the new millennium. See more..
4.5 National Museum of Beirut (1.502 reviews)
- A wonderful visit - 15 Sep 2019
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM History Museums

The National Museum was on our to do list when we were to visit Lebanon. There was quite an amount of tourist groups but it didn't impact the visit. The entrance fee is very cheap 5000L.L. (around 3$ US) and you get to explore 3 floors including: the sarcophagi downstairs and the 2 mummies. It was a very interesting visit as this museum has many of the items that were hidden during the civil war. Overall : Highly recommended - be sure to go if you are in the area. See more..
4.5 Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque (795 reviews)
- Breathtaking
Religious Sites

Stunning Mosque inside and out, amazing feel. Heard the azaan and its juts beautiful. Security before you in but nice staff ready to help. The Church next to the Mosque is just an amazing view to see. See more..
4.5 American University of Beirut (775 reviews)
- Beautiful campus and wonderful, passionate staff and faculty
Educational sites

I absolutely love the American University of Beirut! The students, staff and faculty are so welcoming and representative of the people of Lebanon—hard working, positive, and looking to make positive changes in the world. I’m so impressed at how many people passionately working on making a difference with digital accessibility and inclusion within AUB and the country as a whole! The AUB Accessibility for a Bolder Learning Experience (ABLE) Summit is an amazing celebration of knowledge and advocacy for people with disabilities. It’s refreshing to see the genuine care that AUB stakeholders possess for others, despite any crises going on the last three years. On top of the amazing things that AUB is doing, the campus is amazing with hundreds of varieties of trees from all over the world adding to the character of this campus. If you’re in Beirut, you must pay a visit to the AUB campus. See more..
4.5 Greek Orthodox Cathedral of Saint George (361 reviews)
- hoiiy sprity
Religious Sites

This church will surprise you in many ways. It's an eighteenth century church that was built on top of a much earlier one from the 4th century. The much older church had been forgotten for hundreds of years, but a bombardment that took place during the Lebanese civil war (1975-1990) unveiled the ancient church when a bomb bore a hole through the newer church's floor. It is possible to visit the older church during the day through a separate entrance to the left of the newer church's m See more..
4.5 Nicolas Sursock Museum (253 reviews)
- A must visit place
Friday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Speciality Museums

I go to Sursock frequently. The exhibitions are of international standard and entrance is free. The location is convenient and special. I recommend the gift shop. It has an excellent selection. Visitors to Beirut can't afford to miss this museum and gallery. See more..
4.5 Rouche Sea Rock (213 reviews)
- Natural Landmark in Beirut.
Points of Interest & Landmarks

The most famous Landmark in Beirut. if you have to visit beirut for the 1000 time you must pass by and take a photo there. See more..
4.5 Al-Omari Mosque (100 reviews)
- a wonder that survived the war and stands tall
Ancient Ruins • Religious Sites

this is the best example of beiruts harmony with co existence. a must see location right near beirut souks in downtown. See more..
4.5 CITYMALL (93 reviews)
- One of the best malls in Lebanon
Friday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Shopping Malls

CITYMALL, the ultimate shopping and entertainment mall opened its doors in 2005. Located east out of the capital in the urban area of Beirut, this 80,000 square meter mall offers everything . CITYMALL gathers more than 220 stores including two department stores, a hypermarket , clothing stores for women, men and children, a sport outlet, cafes, restaurants , indoor play areas dedicated to the little ones and the best multiplex cinema in Lebanon with 9 movie theaters. CITYMALL gets you in the mood for every single occasion with the shopping fair, operation full moon during Ramadan, Easter, Christmas and so on. It even turns into the city of love on Valentine’s Day and makes sure you’ll never forget Mother’s Day or Father’s Day. Seasonal events are held throughout the year to make you dive deep into the festive spirits. For all these reasons and so much more, CITYMALL is without a doubt the place to be at anytime of the year. See more..
4.5 City Centre Beirut (92 reviews)
- " Very nice mall "
Friday: 10:00 AM - 12:00 AM Spent 2-3 hours Shopping Malls

City Centre Beirut is the first project for MAF Properties in the Levant region that delivers a new retail and entertainment concept to the country featuring many “firsts”. Over 40 of the 200 stores in the mall are new brands – never seen before in Lebanon: such as; Carrefour, Vox Cinemas, Magic Planet, and 40 food and beverage outlets including 3 flagship brands from North America. The Centre is ideally located in the Hazmieh district next to the Damascus Highway. City Centre Beirut, will become is the destination for both residents and tourists alike and serves the central and eastern areas of Beirut as it is easily accessed by way of a dedicated bridge and over 1,800 car park spaces. This exciting destination is over 650,000 square feet and stretches across 3 levels and an open air rooftop restaurant precinct. See more..
4.5 Badaro (53 reviews)
- A new spot in Beirut
Spent More than 3 hours Neighborhoods

I love Badaro for the very special cachet it enjoys. Life is back to this street full of dining options and bars. It adds choices to the nightlife in the country. See more..
4.5 Archaeological Museum of the American University of Beirut (41 reviews)
- Excellent museum with a varied and interesting collection
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Natural History Museums • Art Museums • History Museums

I had some time spare in my itinerary so i went to this museum, and i was very glad i did. Their collection is excellent and very well laid out, with informative descriptions in English. I recommend the free audio guide. See more..
4.5 The Silk Museum (27 reviews)
- Very cultural
Friday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums

The museum is located among beautiful olive groves and surrounded by many terraces and stairs for agriculture because the region is a foothill of Mount Lebanon. This represents the look of the traditional lebanese villages. The museum represents by itself a old lebanese house with its old stone terraces and gardens. Inside, we can discover the secrets of the silk, how it was made and how we used to live of. Furthermore, there is always an exposition about an ancient era where the silk was required or introduced. Very cultural. See more..
4.5 Sporting Club Beach (24 reviews)
- Best way to spend a beach day in Beirut!
Friday: 8:00 AM - 12:00 AM Spent More than 3 hours Sports Complexes

Get a taste of old world charm at Sporting Club, owned & managed by the same family since 1953. Sporting Club is one of the most popular beach clubs in Lebanon & caters to a select crowd of like minded people. who the owners affectionately refer to as the extended Sporting family. The Club is open year round & provides a panoramic view of the Mediterranean sea, the limestone cliffs of the the Pigeon Rocks grottos, bay & the city of Beirut. Amenities include 3 pools, paddle board, Kayak & Scuba Diving. The Club is house to Feluka, seafood restaurant & wine bar, trendy & Zen & The Deck Cafe, restaurant by the sea, casual & cool. SeaBreeze, sunset lounge & event venue is Sporting's cliff side open air terrace, ideal for your private parties, receptions and weddings. It is home to Beirut's unique beachfront ‘Sunset Bar’, open all summer long, enjoy good music, a fresh cocktail & a sharing menu daily ‘till midnight. See more..
4.5 Zaitunay Bay (2.139 reviews)
- The true view of beirut
Points of Interest & Landmarks

The Zaitunay Bay certainly exceeds all expectations and transcends the national borders to further polish Lebanon’s image and allow it to assume its rightful position as a touristic destination, but more importantly, as an exclusive and luxurious destination rivaling the best the world has to offer. Being the go-to place for all the Lebanese, Zaitunay Bay also inevitably is a prominent touristic destination. A must-see destination offering an array of various, cultural, leisure and social activities which finally brings back those faded photographs of Lebanon into the new millennium. See more..
4.5 National Museum of Beirut (1.502 reviews)
- A wonderful visit - 15 Sep 2019
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM History Museums

The National Museum was on our to do list when we were to visit Lebanon. There was quite an amount of tourist groups but it didn't impact the visit. The entrance fee is very cheap 5000L.L. (around 3$ US) and you get to explore 3 floors including: the sarcophagi downstairs and the 2 mummies. It was a very interesting visit as this museum has many of the items that were hidden during the civil war. Overall : Highly recommended - be sure to go if you are in the area. See more..
4.5 Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque (795 reviews)
- Breathtaking
Religious Sites

Stunning Mosque inside and out, amazing feel. Heard the azaan and its juts beautiful. Security before you in but nice staff ready to help. The Church next to the Mosque is just an amazing view to see. See more..
4.5 American University of Beirut (775 reviews)
- Beautiful campus and wonderful, passionate staff and faculty
Educational sites

I absolutely love the American University of Beirut! The students, staff and faculty are so welcoming and representative of the people of Lebanon—hard working, positive, and looking to make positive changes in the world. I’m so impressed at how many people passionately working on making a difference with digital accessibility and inclusion within AUB and the country as a whole! The AUB Accessibility for a Bolder Learning Experience (ABLE) Summit is an amazing celebration of knowledge and advocacy for people with disabilities. It’s refreshing to see the genuine care that AUB stakeholders possess for others, despite any crises going on the last three years. On top of the amazing things that AUB is doing, the campus is amazing with hundreds of varieties of trees from all over the world adding to the character of this campus. If you’re in Beirut, you must pay a visit to the AUB campus. See more..
4.5 Greek Orthodox Cathedral of Saint George (361 reviews)
- hoiiy sprity
Religious Sites

This church will surprise you in many ways. It's an eighteenth century church that was built on top of a much earlier one from the 4th century. The much older church had been forgotten for hundreds of years, but a bombardment that took place during the Lebanese civil war (1975-1990) unveiled the ancient church when a bomb bore a hole through the newer church's floor. It is possible to visit the older church during the day through a separate entrance to the left of the newer church's m See more..
4.5 Nicolas Sursock Museum (253 reviews)
- A must visit place
Friday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Speciality Museums

I go to Sursock frequently. The exhibitions are of international standard and entrance is free. The location is convenient and special. I recommend the gift shop. It has an excellent selection. Visitors to Beirut can't afford to miss this museum and gallery. See more..
4.5 Rouche Sea Rock (213 reviews)
- Natural Landmark in Beirut.
Points of Interest & Landmarks

The most famous Landmark in Beirut. if you have to visit beirut for the 1000 time you must pass by and take a photo there. See more..
4.0 Beirut Souks (1.737 reviews)
- A place to be, eat and shop
Friday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Neighborhoods

Once one enters Beirut Souks, it is difficult to leave in an hour or couple of hours as it has so much to offer. From designer shops to some of the best eating places in Beirut to a multi cinema complex, Beirut Souks has it all. The overall environment is so appealing that one cannot but spend hours here. The architecture is a nice blend of cultural and modern lines and openings in the roof for daylight. It is a must see and explore and one should plan to spend a major part of a day here to fully enjoy it. See more..
4.0 Hamra Street (1.386 reviews)
- Beirut Face
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Neighborhoods • Points of Interest & Landmarks

This vibrant street is as strong as Lebanon itself, no matter what the situation is, you see people open their stores and again and rise like champions, you see the most high end and the cheapest of the cheapest but all in a very classy street. Its full of everything you can imagine, from electronics, to fashion, banks, offices, ministries, everything is in Hamra. Hamra street is the most inportant most famous street in the whole middle east as its been like this since 60 years now See more..
4.0 Pigeon Rocks in Raouche (1.163 reviews)
- Nice view and spot for a stop
Geologic Formations

Located on the corniche in Beirut ..easily accessible for photos from the sidewalk. There are also boat trips around the rocks and an excellent restaurant called Bay Rock overlooking the rocks ..best way to enjoy the view with breakfast, lunch or dinner See more..
4.0 Corniche Beirut (1.008 reviews)
- New and nice
Points of Interest & Landmarks

I have been to the old corniche a few times, just to hang out and see the sights. Went to the new corniche just slightly further along and also enjoyed my stroll. Both are free and right next to the sea. Worth the walk. See more..
4.0 Gemmayzeh Street (626 reviews)
- Lively and fun street!
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Described as the "Greenwich Village" or "Soho" of Beirut, Gemmayze is a residential neighbourhood that has emerged as one of Beirut's trendiest districts. It is bordered by Saifi Village/Downtown Beirut to the west and Achrafieh to the south and its main thoroughfare, rue Gouraud, contains many popular restaurants and bars. The district has some beautiful traditional as well French-mandate architecture and is charming day and buzzing by night. See more..
4.0 Place de l'Etoile (433 reviews)
- Sahet Al Nejmeh
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Off-Road & ATV Trails

is situated in the Beirut city of Lebanon. The square is an unmistakable symbol of Beirut, most prominent for its Art Deco design. It is one of the best place in this city. Tourists come here from all over the world with their family members and friends to visit this place. The 1930s clock tower, gem of the square, was a blessing from Lebanese-Brazilian émigré Michel Abed to the Lebanese Government. Today, the square is loaded with individuals from all kinds of different backgrounds, travelers, and local people, adults, and kids, who come here to eat, walk or appreciate the road life. See more..