Lebanon travel tips
Lebanon travel tips: A Middle Eastern country with a rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes, known for its resilience and hospitality.
Governorates 🌎
Lebanon travel tips. Here is a list of all the governorates of the Lebanon.
Beirut
Mount Lebanon
North
South
Bekaa
Nabatieh
Akkar
Baabda
Before you go 🛩
Important information you should know before your trip
Info
Capital | Beirut
Flag Codes:
ISO alpha-2 LB,
ISO alpha-3 LBN
Currency
Badge | Lebanese pound
CODE | LBP
NUMBER | 422
SYMBOL | ل.ل
FRACTION | piastra
Mobile Coverage
Dialing Code | +965
SIM Card
Coverage | 3G / 4G / 5G |
Mobile Networks | Alfa Mobile | Touch Mobile |
Location
Lebanon is a country located in the Middle East, situated along the eastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea.
Lebanon is known for its diverse culture, history, and natural beauty, including its coastline, mountains, and fertile valleys. The capital city of Lebanon is Beirut, which is a major cultural and economic hub in the region.
Currency
The official currency of Lebanon is the Lebanese pound (LBP). One LBP is divided into 100 piastres.
The Lebanese pound banknotes have denominations of 1000, 5000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000 and 100,000 Lebanese pounds, while the coins have denominations of 50, 100, 250 and 500 Lebanese pounds.
The Lebanese pound has experienced a significant devaluation in recent years due to the economic crisis facing the country. As a result, inflation has increased and prices of goods and services have skyrocketed, causing financial hardship for many Lebanese.
It is important to note that the exchange rate of the Lebanese pound can be very volatile and can vary significantly depending on the economic and political conditions of the country.
Languages
Arabic is the official language of Lebanon and is spoken by the majority of the population in the country. However, other languages are also spoken in Lebanon, mainly due to its cultural diversity and the presence of a large expatriate population. Some of these languages include:
French: It is widely spoken and used in business, education and government administration, as Lebanon was a French colony until 1943.
English: is widely spoken by the expat community and is used as a common language in business and education.
Armenian: is spoken by the Armenian minority in Lebanon, which represents around 5% of the population.
Kurdish: is spoken by a small Kurdish community in Lebanon.
Turkish: is spoken by a small Turkish community in Lebanon.
Syriac: is spoken by the Assyrian minority in Lebanon.
Greek: is spoken by a small Greek community in Lebanon.
Overall, Lebanon is a multicultural country with great linguistic diversity due to its diverse population and the presence of expatriates from different countries.
Climate 🌡
Lebanon has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. The climate is influenced by the country’s proximity to the Mediterranean Sea and its varied topography, which includes coastal areas, mountains, and valleys. Here are the key features of Lebanon’s climate:
Mild Winters:
Winters (December to February) are generally mild along the coast, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F). In the mountains, winters are colder, and snowfall is common, especially at higher elevations.
Rainy Season:
The rainy season in Lebanon is during the winter months, primarily from November to March. This is when the country receives the majority of its annual precipitation.
Dry Summers:
Summers (June to August) are hot and dry, especially in the lowland areas. Coastal areas experience average daytime temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), while the interior valleys can be even hotter.
Mountain Climate:
The mountains, including the famous Lebanon Mountain Range, experience cooler temperatures compared to the coast. Mountainous areas provide relief from the heat during the summer and often receive more precipitation, including snow in the winter.
Humidity:
Coastal areas can experience higher humidity levels, especially during the warmer months. The sea breeze helps moderate the heat along the coast.
Beirut Climate:
Beirut, the capital city, has a typical Mediterranean climate. Winters are mild and rainy, while summers are hot and dry. The city enjoys pleasant weather in spring and fall.
Snowfall:
The mountains of Lebanon receive significant snowfall during the winter, making them popular destinations for winter sports enthusiasts.
Variability:
Lebanon’s climate can be influenced by variability, and weather patterns can change from year to year. Some years might experience drier conditions, while others might have wetter periods.
Tourist Seasons:
Spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) are popular seasons for tourists due to the pleasant weather and comfortable temperatures.
The diverse climate of Lebanon offers a variety of experiences, from enjoying the Mediterranean coastline to exploring mountainous regions and engaging in winter sports activities.
Lebanon travel tips
If you’re planning a trip to Lebanon, here are some travel tips to enhance your experience:
Historical Marvels:
Explore ancient sites like Baalbek and Byblos for a glimpse into Lebanon’s rich history.
Scenic Beauty:
Enjoy the picturesque landscapes, from the Cedars of God to the Mediterranean beaches.
Cultural Respect:
Respect local customs and traditions, showcasing appreciation for Lebanon’s diverse religious and cultural landscape.
Beirut’s Charms:
Experience Beirut’s lively nightlife, cultural events, and a leisurely stroll along the iconic Corniche.
Transportation:
Lebanon’s transportation blends taxis, buses, and shared vans. Traffic can be hectic, but the coastal roads offer scenic drives. View Guide.
Wine Tasting:
Visit the Bekaa Valley to sample Lebanon’s renowned wines.
Safety Awareness:
Stay informed about travel advisories and practice responsible tourism for a secure and enjoyable trip.
Enjoy your time in Lebanon!
The best of the best
Lebanese cuisine is known for its rich flavors, use of fresh ingredients, and influence from Mediterranean and Middle Eastern culinary traditions. Lebanese dishes often feature a variety of herbs, spices, grains, and vegetables.
Tabbouleh
A refreshing salad made with finely chopped parsley, tomatoes, mint, onion, and bulgur, dressed with olive oil and lemon juice.
Kibbeh
A popular dish made from ground meat (usually lamb), bulgur wheat, and spices, formed into patties or stuffed with meat, pine nuts, and onions.
Fattoush
A colorful salad made with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, radishes, and toasted pieces of pita bread, all tossed in a tangy dressing.
Here are some typical foods you might find in Lebanon:
Moutabal: A dip made from roasted eggplants, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil, similar to baba ghanoush.
Shawarma: Thinly sliced, marinated meat (usually chicken, lamb, or beef) cooked on a vertical rotisserie and served in pita bread with vegetables and tahini or garlic sauce.
Manakish: Flatbread topped with various ingredients such as za’atar (a spice blend), cheese, or ground meat.
Lentil Soup: A hearty and nutritious soup made from red lentils, flavored with spices and often served with a drizzle of olive oil.
Sfiha: Small pies or pastries topped with a mixture of minced meat (often lamb or beef) and spices.
Labneh: A strained yogurt that is thicker than regular yogurt, often enjoyed as a dip or spread, drizzled with olive oil and herbs.
Stuffed Grape Leaves (Warak Enab): Grape leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, ground meat, and spices, often served as an appetizer.
Baklava: Layers of thin pastry filled with nuts (such as pistachios or walnuts) and sweetened with honey or syrup.
Kanafeh: A sweet dessert made from thin noodle-like pastry soaked in sugar syrup, often layered with cheese or semolina.
Arak: A traditional anise-flavored alcoholic drink that is often diluted with water and served with mezze.
Lebanese cuisine places a strong emphasis on freshness and the balance of flavors, resulting in a diverse array of dishes that reflect the country’s culinary heritage and cultural influences.
Transportation 🚥
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