Lebanon Road Trip Itinerary
Embark on a journey through Lebanon's rich history and culture with the Lebanon Road Trip. This 8-day road trip starts and ends in the capital city of Beirut, taking you 578km through some of the most beautiful and historically significant towns in the country. Starting in Tyre, you can explore the ancient ruins, including the Roman Hippodrome, visit the Crusader Castle and the Al-Bass archaeological site, and take a stroll along the old city walls. Then, head to Qaraoun and explore the beautiful lake and its surrounding nature. Moving on to Beit ed-Dine, you can explore the palaces of the former emirs, the Ottoman mosque, and the old souks. From there, make your way to Jbeil, home to the Crusader Castle of Byblos, and explore the old town and its souks. Then, drive to Batroun and explore the old churches and the Phoenician wall. After that, head to Tripoli and explore its old souks and the Citadel of Raymond de Saint-Gilles. Finally, make your way to Baʿalbak and explore the ruins of the Temple of Jupiter and the old souks. The best time of year to take this road trip is during the spring and summer months. The roads are generally in good condition, though there are some curvy roads along the route. This road trip is suitable for any driver, and can be managed with a fair budget.
8
number of days
567 km
route length
moderate
budget
explorer
good for
on the right
traffic direction
high
accident level
START
Beirut
Distance 567 km
Driving time 14.5 h
Pace: slow
130.4 kWh
Airports
BEY
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Beirut, the capital of Lebanon, is an ideal starting point for the "Lebanon Road Trip". Located on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, Beirut is a vibrant city with an exciting culture and rich history. One of the most impressive sights in town is the National Museum of Beirut, with its extensive collection of artifacts from the ancient civilizations of the region. The Corniche, a waterfront promenade along the Mediterranean Sea, is another popular destination, as is the Beirut Souks, the city's traditional marketplace.
Travelling to Beirut by air, the closest international airport is Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY). Car rental services are available at the airport, making it easy for visitors to continue their journey through Lebanon by car.
Beirut is a great starting point for the "Lebanon Road Trip". With its vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning natural beauty, Beirut is the perfect place to begin your journey through Lebanon.
1
Beirut
- Saida
- Tyre
Distance 76 km
Driving time 1.2 h
Pace: fast
22.8 kWh
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Itinerary
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Begin your journey in the vibrant city of Beirut, Lebanon and get ready to explore the wonders of Saida and Tyre! This 76 km road trip will take you less than 2 hours and will be filled with breathtaking views and historical sites. Drive through the stunning coastal roads of Saida and Tyre and take in the beautiful scenery and the fresh sea air. Visit the old city of Saida and take a stroll through its narrow alleys, explore the old souks and vibrant markets and take in the sights of the old city walls. In Tyre, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the ancient ruins of the old city. This ancient city is home to some of the world's oldest and most beautiful archaeological sites. Enjoy the beauty of the Mediterranean Sea and the rich cultural heritage of these two cities. Along the way, make sure to take some time to appreciate the beauty of nature and the local culture. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the “Itinerary” of this stage.
Tyre - Lebanon - Asia - Road Trip - en.wikipedia.org
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2
Tyre
- Qaraoun
Distance 91 km
Driving time 3.0 h
Pace: slow
20.9 kWh
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Itinerary
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Take a road trip from Tyre to Qaraoun, a journey of 91 km that can be completed in less than two hours. The route offers stunning views of the Mediterranean and the surrounding countryside, so make sure to keep your eyes peeled for the perfect photo opportunity! The road is winding in some sections, so drive with caution. Along the way, you can explore the ancient ruins of Tyre and the beautiful Lake Qaraoun. Be sure to stop at the nearby villages to sample some of the local delicacies. And don't forget to take a dip in the crystal clear waters of the lake. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day trip or part of a larger tour, this route will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Qaraoun - Lebanon - Asia - Road Trip - en.wikipedia.org
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3
Qaraoun
- Beit ed-Dine
Distance 63 km
Driving time 2.1 h
Pace: slow
14.5 kWh
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Embark on a road trip through the breathtaking landscape of Qaraoun, Lebanon and Beit ed-Dine! This 73 km journey will take you less than two hours to complete, and along the way you will be able to enjoy the scenic views of the winding roads. Make sure to keep your eyes open for the breathtaking views of the rolling hills and the historical sites that you pass.
During your journey, you will be able to explore the ruins of Qaraoun, the ancient city of Beit ed-Dine, and the historic sites of the region. You can also enjoy the lush green forests and the crystal clear lakes in the area.
So, get ready for an unforgettable road trip! Don't forget to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your journey!
Beit ed-Dine - Lebanon - Asia - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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4
Beit ed-Dine
- Jbeil
Distance 87 km
Driving time 2.4 h
Pace: slow
20.0 kWh
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Embark on a memorable road trip from Beit ed-Dine to Jbeil! This 89 km drive takes less than two hours, and is one of the stages of a larger tour. On the way, you will be passing through some of the most beautiful sites in Lebanon.
Start your journey in Beit ed-Dine, where you can visit the Chouf Cedar Nature Reserve, the Beiteddine Palace, and the Three Mosques. Further down the road, you can visit the city of Aley, where you can admire the Aley Grand Mosque and the Aley Castle.
Continue your journey to the city of Byblos, where you can explore the ruins of the ancient Phoenician city, including the Temple of the Obelisks, the Crusader Castle, and the Roman Amphitheatre. You can also take a stroll along the Mediterranean Sea and enjoy the views of the city.
Finally, you will arrive in Jbeil, where you can visit the Byblos Castle and the Roman Baths. You can also take a boat ride to the nearby islands, or visit the Jeita Grotto.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Jbeil - Lebanon - Asia - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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5
Jbeil
- Batroun
Distance 17 km
Driving time 0.3 h
Pace: modest
4.4 kWh
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Jbeil to Batroun! This 17 km journey will take you less than an hour, but you will experience a wealth of history and culture along the way. Start your journey at the ancient city of Jbeil, with its impressive Crusader Castle and archaeological sites, and make sure to take a stroll along its picturesque harbour. Then, drive along the beautiful coastal road and take in the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. As you continue your journey, you will come across the historical towns of Amioun and Ehden, with their many churches and monasteries, and take a break at the picturesque village of Bcharreh. Finally, you will reach your destination, the coastal city of Batroun, with its many historical sites and great restaurants. Don't forget to explore the old souks and the beautiful beach of Batroun! Make sure to pay attention to the historical sites, the scenic roads and the breathtaking views along the way. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Batroun - Lebanon - Asia - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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6
Batroun
- Tripoli
Distance 30 km
Driving time 0.4 h
Pace: fast
9.1 kWh
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Are you ready to explore the gorgeous coastline of Lebanon? Start your journey in Batroun, a charming city full of history, culture, and stunning views. From here, you will drive to Tripoli, less than an hour away. Along the way, you will enjoy the scenic coastal road, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Be sure to take some time to explore the old city of Tripoli and its many attractions, such as the Citadel of Raymond de Saint-Gilles, the Karamani Mosque, and the El Mina Souks. You can also visit the nearby beaches and enjoy some delicious seafood. Don't forget to stop in Mina to take a dip in the Mediterranean. As you continue your journey, you will be able to admire the lush landscape and the many villages along the way. Make sure to take some time to explore the traditional architecture and enjoy the local culture. When you reach Tripoli, you can visit the many historical sites and take in the stunning views of the city. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to look at the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Tripoli - Lebanon - Asia - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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7
Tripoli
- Baalbek
Distance 117 km
Driving time 3.2 h
Pace: slow
26.9 kWh
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Start your journey in Tripoli, Lebanon and explore the spectacular Qadisha Valley, just 116 km away! With its winding roads, you'll be able to take in the breathtaking views of the valley, and have the opportunity to explore the ancient monasteries and churches in the area. The journey will take you less than 3 hours and you'll be able to experience the unique culture of the region. Make sure to pay special attention to the scenic road that will lead you to the end of your journey in Baʿalbak. Along the way, you can explore the historical sites, such as the Qadisha Grotto, the Monastery of St. Maron, and the Monastery of Qozhaya. Don't forget to take pictures of the beautiful scenery and take a break to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Baalbek - Lebanon - Asia - Road Trip - flickr.com
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8
Baalbek
- Beirut
Distance 86 km
Driving time 1.8 h
Pace: modest
22.3 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable journey from Baʿalbak to Beirut! Located only 86 km away, this drive can be done in less than two hours. You will be in for a treat as you take in the breathtaking views of the winding roads and the historical sites throughout the journey. Make sure to pay attention to the scenery and the landmarks along the way. As you drive, you will be able to take in the amazing views of the region, including the breathtaking mountains and lush green valleys. You will also have the chance to visit some of the most important historical sites in the area, such as the ruins of the ancient city of Baʿalbak. After your journey, you will arrive in Beirut, a vibrant city with a lot to explore. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Beirut
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The end of the "Lebanon Road Trip" is the incredible city of Beirut. The city is filled with a unique mixture of culture and history, making it a must-see destination.
Beirut is home to many historical sites, including the National Museum of Beirut and the Roman Hippodrome. The National Museum of Beirut exhibits artifacts from different periods of the city's history and is the perfect place to learn about Beirut's past. The Roman Hippodrome is an ancient chariot racing track, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the past.
Beirut also offers plenty of modern attractions, such as the Beirut Souks, a modern shopping complex with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The Corniche Beirut is a wonderful promenade along the Mediterranean, offering stunning views of the city.
For those traveling by car, the closest international airport to Beirut is Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY). From there, it is easy to access all of the city's attractions.
Beirut is a vibrant city with something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a cultural experience, a shopping spree, or a relaxing stroll along the Mediterranean, Beirut is the perfect place to end the "Lebanon Road Trip".
Lebanon Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Beirut
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End:
Beirut
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Distance:
567 km
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Stay:
8 days
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Getting there:
Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on an 8-day Lebanon Road Trip spanning 578 km, which provides an immersive journey through Lebanon's storied past and vibrant culture. This circuit begins and ends in the capital city of Beirut, guiding travelers through a tapestry of historic towns, ancient ruins, breathtaking natural landscapes, and architectural masterpieces.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Tyre: Discover the UNESCO-listed Roman Hippodrome, marvel at the imposing Crusader Castle, and explore the extensive Al-Bass archaeological site.
- Qaraoun: Immerse yourself in the serenity of Lake Qaraoun, a man-made reservoir surrounded by stunning scenery, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
- Beit ed-Dine: Admire the intricate architecture of the 19th-century Emirs' palaces, visit the Ottoman-style mosque, and wander through the traditional old souks.
- Jbeil (Byblos): Explore one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with attractions such as the Byblos Crusader Castle, the charming old town, and vibrant souks.
- Batroun: Step back in time with Batroun's ancient churches and the well-preserved Phoenician sea wall.
- Tripoli: Experience the bustling energy of old souks and take in the panoramic views from the Citadel of Raymond de Saint-Gilles, a testament to Tripoli's medieval history.
- Baʿalbak: Be awed by the colossal Roman Temple of Jupiter and stroll through age-old souks in this city that was once a major religious center of the Roman empire.
Best Time to Go:
The prime time for this Road Trip is from April to June and from September to November. During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Potential Risks:
While the Roads in Lebanon are predominantly well-maintained, some sections may be challenging due to sharp curves and mountainous terrain. It is recommended to drive cautiously and be prepared for variations in Road quality.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
- This Road Trip caters to drivers of all experience levels.
- The journey is cost-effective, allowing travelers to experience Lebanon's splendors without an extravagant budget.
- Lebanon's diverse mix of natural wonders and historical landmarks offers a dynamic travel experience.
- The country's rich cultural tapestry is evident through its varied architectural styles, from Phoenician ruins to Ottoman constructions, and its lively traditional markets, known as souks.
Interesting Facts:
- The Temple of Jupiter in Baalbak is one of the largest Roman temples ever built, and its pillars are among the tallest in the world.
- Byblos is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also one of the primary places where the Phoenician alphabet, a precursor to modern alphabets, was developed.
- The Beit ed-Dine Palace complex took nearly 30 years to complete and is a stunning example of traditional Lebanese architecture with its detailed mosaics and ornate woodwork.
A good choice for:
The Lebanon Road Trip offers a unique opportunity to experience the enthralling blend of historical insight, natural splendor, and cultural richness. This journey is an essential endeavor for anyone passionate about delving into the heart of history, experiencing the majesty of nature, and embracing the enduring traditions of Lebanon.
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