Forget stereotypes, and let’s explore Beirut through its top spots. In 72 hours, you can experience world-class hotels, delicious Lebanese food, a lively arts scene, chic shopping, and the city’s buzzing nightlife. Here’s your guide to making the most of your Beirut itinerary.
To help you plan a 3 days in Beirut, we’ve listed some great places to visit. These spots reflect the city’s lively spirit in art, food, shopping, and entertainment.
Table of Contents
THURSDAY: FIRST STEPS IN BEIRUT
3 p.m. – Check in at Gray or Albergo, the two best hotels in Beirut
- Le Gray Beirut is a luxury hotel with a modern design. It has a rooftop with a pool, a stylish bar, and a prime location near Place des Martyrs.
- Hotel Albergo is a charming and intimate hotel in Achrafieh. It has a timeless elegance, perfect for a quiet stay in a beautiful setting.
4 p.m. – Visit the splendid Sursock Museum
The Sursock Museum, nestled in a stunning mansion from the early 20th century in one of Beirut’s finest residential areas, reopened in 2015 after eight years of renovation. The restoration, led by architects Jean-Michel Wilmotte and Jacques Abou Khaled, brought new life to the museum.
When it reopened, the museum’s director, Zeina Arida, highlighted the importance of making contemporary art accessible and enjoyable. The permanent collections offer a deep dive into the vibrant world of Lebanese art, while various exhibitions shed light on Beirut and Lebanon’s history through diverse themes. The Sursock Museum is undoubtedly one of the most charming museums in the city, a must-visit for anyone in Beirut.
Extra tip : Visit the museum during the day and come back in the evening to admire the superb lighting on its facade.
PRACTICAL INFO : Sursock Museum (Rue de l’Archevêché Greek Orthodox, Achrafieh).
Open every day, except Tuesday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Late night on Thursday until 9 p.m.
Free entry, donations suggested.
5:30 p.m. – Eat the best artisanal ice cream in Beirut at Hanna Mitri
Hanna Mitri is a famous ice cream shop in Beirut’s Achrafieh district, just 10 minutes from the Sursock Museum. It’s not fancy—just a tiny corner store with old photos on the walls and a TV that hasn’t been updated in years. There’s a door to get in and another to get out. Despite this, people line up all day to try these ice creams, which some say are the best in Lebanon.
The flavors at Hanna Mitri are simple but amazing. You can get milk, strawberry, lemon, rose water, or pistachio. Unlike most ice creams, these taste real and fresh, without any weird additives. You might have to wait a bit, but once you take that first bite, you’ll know it was worth it.
TIP: Taste as many flavors as you can, they are all delicious!
PRACTICAL INFO : Hanna Mitri (Rue Mar Mitr, Achrafieh). Open every day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
9 p.m. – Feast on modern mezzes in a traditional Beirut house
Liza, a top restaurant in Beirut’s Achrafieh district, combines Lebanese tradition with a modern twist. The venue is set in a beautifully revamped traditional house, with stunning decor by local artists and soft lighting that creates a cozy vibe.
On the menu, you’ll find classic Lebanese dishes reimagined with a modern approach. The food is lighter and less fatty than traditional versions. Try fattouche, a salad with toasted bread and sumac, or moutabbal, an eggplant purée. There’s also hommos bi tahine, hummus with sesame cream, and kebbe nayye, lamb tartare. For meat lovers, there’s kharouf bi khams bharat, candied lamb with five-spice rice, and other grilled meats like kafta.
PRACTICAL INFO : Liza (Metropolitan Club, Rue Doumani, Trabaud, Achrafieh). Open every day from 12 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. (brunch on Sunday) and from 8 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. Count 78,000 LBP (around €45) per head for the Nazzel “tasting” menu which allows you to taste a large part of the menu without having to choose.
The alternatives to Liza?
Al Falamanki, a classic Lebanese café-restaurant in Beirut, is the last reminder of Monot’s vibrant past. The lively terrace is perfect for sipping arak in the evening, playing tric-trac (a type of backgammon), watching hookah smoke curl through the air, and enjoying an array of delicious mezzés. Don’t miss the wild thyme salad and what many consider the best fattouche in town!
PRACTICAL INFO : Al Falamanki (at the top of rue Monot, near Sodeco Square) open 7/7 and 24/7.
11:30 p.m. – Have a drink at the Pool d’état, a timeless rooftop
If you’re in Beirut, a visit to Pool d’état is a must.
Pool d’Etat is a rooftop spot in Beirut that’s great for relaxing and having fun. During the day, it feels like a beach with a 15-meter pool and lots of trees for shade. You can swim, grab a drink, or eat a snack. In the summer, there are sunbeds to chill out on.
When night falls, the place becomes a cocktail bar. They serve tasty sandwiches, nachos, and salads, and you can sit at tables where the sunbeds used to be. There’s often live music or a DJ playing, so it’s lively and fun.
PRACTICAL INFO : Pool d’etat (rue Pasteur, near the Mayrig restaurant. You have to go down a small staircase between two buildings to access it). Open Monday to Thursday from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m., and until 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday.
FRIDAY: ART, RELAXATION AND NIGHTLIFE
10 a.m. – Enjoy your coffee in Gemmayzeh
Sip is a cool café in Beirut where young people hang out for their morning coffee. Inside, there’s a cozy courtyard, a room with rustic walls, modern furniture, and a coffee counter that feels like a Brooklyn café. It’s a great spot for a relaxed coffee break or some casual work in a trendy, urban environment.
PRACTICAL INFO : SIP (opposite the Saint Nicolas stairs, rue Gouraud). Open every day from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Gemmayzeh district
11 a.m. – Set off to discover arty Beirut
Beirut is a city where art is at the heart of its culture and influence. Foundations like Aïshti, museums like Sursock, and contemporary art galleries such as Opera Gallery, and Galerie Tanit are scattered across the city, making it a hub for artistic expression.
12:30 p.m. – Buy the most beautiful objects in Lebanon at Orient 499
Created by Frank Luca and Aida Kawas, this high-end brand specializes in furniture, decorative items, accessories, and ready-to-wear clothing, blending traditional influences with modern style. All products are designed and made in Lebanon or other nearby countries. The bohemian bourgeois crowd in Beirut loves it, and so will you.
Here’s a tip: even if you’re not in a shopping mood, take a moment to step inside and explore the store. The elegant design and unique displays are a visual treat, offering inspiration even if you don’t end up buying anything.
PRACTICAL INFO : Orient 499 (499, Omar Daouk Street, Mina El Hosn). Open Monday to Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Other good shopping addresses?
- Curl is a cozy coffee shop on Badaro Street in Beirut might just become your new favorite spot! It’s both a coffeehouse and a bookstore, filled with inviting music and a welcoming owner. When you’re in Badaro, make sure to stop by for a delightful coffee or a comforting hot chocolate. Take your time to soak in the serene atmosphere!
- For something different, check out Plan Bey in the Mar Mikhael district. This concept store has limited-edition comic strips by Lebanese artists, artistic posters, and photobooks showcasing Beirut’s transformation over the years.
- Next door, you’ll find artisanal Lebanese crafts like designer pottery, hand-embroidered throws, and locally made zaatar and orange blossom bottles. A great spot for picking up unique souvenirs with a story behind them.
1:30 p.m. – Lunch at Casablanca, facing the sea
Nestled in an elegant white house along Beirut’s famous Corniche, Casablanca restaurant is a favorite among the city’s high society. It’s owned by renowned Lebanese designer Johnny Farah and his wife, Syn. With its designer furniture, vibrant décor, and fusion cuisine inspired by Lebanese flavors, it’s a trendy spot.
PRACTICAL INFO: Casablanca (Rue Dar el Mreisseh, Ain el Mreisseh Qaddoura, on the Corniche, facing the sea). Around fifty euros per head for a full lunch or dinner.
3:30 p.m. – Relax in the sun at Sporting Club Beach
“Sporting Club Beach” is a Beirut institution. On weekends, this spot, which may seem unassuming at first with its concrete slabs and dated decor, is always buzzing with activity. It’s where all the cool people in Beirut gather to relax by the pool, enjoying the stunning view of the deep blue Mediterranean. It’s the perfect place to unwind and soak up the sun without leaving the city. A must-visit for a laid-back afternoon.
Extra tip: Remember to bring your own beach towel with you (only the deckchair is included in the entrance price).
PRACTICAL INFO : Sporting Club Beach, open from 7 a.m. to midnight every day. Admission at 45,000 LBP (around €25) on weekends, a little less during the week.
7 p.m. – Taste one of the best shawarmas in the world in Hamra
As the sun sets over Beirut, Hamra becomes the perfect spot to unwind. This bustling district, once known as the “Champs Élysées of Beirut,” buzzes with life, thanks to its many cafes, theaters, bookstores, and cosmopolitan vibe. Before the civil war began in 1975, Hamra was a hotspot for tourists and expats, renowned for its vibrant nightlife. Today, while the scene leans more towards mainstream brands like H&M, Adidas, and Starbucks, the area still offers a unique charm. It’s definitely worth exploring to soak in the energy and spirit of Beirut’s past and present.
We will take advantage of our visit to have a quick dinner in one of these great spots:
- Barbar is the iconic fast-food spot in Beirut’s Hamra district. This expansive spot stretches across several addresses and holds a unique claim to fame: it never closed its doors during the entire Lebanese War. Known for serving some of the best shawarma in the city, Barbar is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience a legendary part of Beirut’s culinary scene.
- Mezyan : Syrian specialties and lively atmosphere in the evening. Hamra in all its splendor.
- Falafel Aboulziz : branch of one of the best falafel spots in the whole city.
9 p.m. – Visit the bars of Gemmayzeh , Mar Mikhaël and Badaro
As night falls in Beirut, it’s time to explore the city’s vibrant nightlife. A tour through the city’s bustling neighborhoods is the perfect way to experience Beirut’s legendary energy.
Start in Gemmayzié, a district filled with trendy bars and restaurants:
- Begin at Centrale, a stylish spot designed by Bernard Khoury, known for its unique architecture and lively atmosphere.
- As the evening progresses, don’t miss Torino Express, a small but iconic bar in Gemmayzié.
- From there, head east to Mar Mikhael, the heart of Beirut’s nightlife scene. This area is packed with bustling terraces and pulsating music, drawing crowds with its vibrant energy and flashy luxury cars.
- For a great night out without too much glitz, visit Internazionale, a hipster-friendly bar with a laid-back vibe.
- Then check out The Bohemian, known for its relaxed setting, or Central Station Boutique Bar, named the 27th best bar in the world in 2018.
- If you’re into techno music, Target Shot is your go-to, while Anise offers a different atmosphere with its cozy charm.
For an adventurous night out, check out Badaro. Once forgotten, this neighborhood made a comeback in the 2010s. It’s popular because it has big terraces and cheaper rents, creating a lively nightlife scene. Many people now prefer it over Mar Mikhaël for its more relaxed vibe and open spaces.
12:30 a.m. – Dance the night away in the Middle East’s hottest clubs
After some drinks in the evening, you might feel like hitting the dance floor! Beirut’s clubbing scene is top-notch, with clubs hosting high-quality DJs and impressive lineups.
Beirut’s nightlife offers a mix of trendy venues and vibrant clubs. Here are some top spots to consider for your next night out in the city:
- Decks On The Beach: Located at the famous Sporting Club Beach, this summer event is a must-visit for Beirut hipsters. It’s the ideal spot to enjoy a laid-back beach party without the VIP vibes.
- Trainstation Mar Mikhael: This old train station, abandoned since the civil war, has transformed into a venue for some of Beirut’s biggest outdoor parties. With DJs like Solomun, Tale Of Us, and Marco Carola, it rivals some of Ibiza’s top clubs.
- The Grand Factory: Known for its quality electronic and techno line-ups, this club is a favorite among Beirut’s nightlife scene.
Each of these places has its unique charm, so you’re sure to find the perfect spot to dance the night away in Beirut.
SATURDAY: MARKET, SHOPPING AND ROOFTOPS
11:30 a.m. – Do your shopping at Souk el Tayeb, organic and ethical market
Kamal Mouzawak is a well-known promoter of Lebanese cuisine, advocating for its power to unite people. He created Souk el Tayeb in Beirut in 2004, a market showcasing the work of small farmers from across Lebanon. It started small but grew into something significant.Every Saturday, from 9 a.m., we head to Souk el Tayeb (in the “Souks of Beirut” area) to find the hundred small producers (mostly organic, sometimes from conflict zones) brought together by Kamal Mouzawak and his teams. The favorite meeting place for Beirut foodies .
PRACTICAL INFO : Souk el Tayeb, every Saturday at the Beirut Souks (Rue Trablos) from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
1 p.m. – Taste the most authentic Lebanese cuisine at Tawlet
If you’re choosing just one spot for lunch in Beirut, consider Tawlet. Led by “food activist” Kamal Mouzawak, this unique eatery in Mar Mikhaël offers daily cuisine prepared by women from different regions of Lebanon.
Tawlet’s dishes reflect authentic Lebanese home cooking, unlike the more familiar mezzes usually associated with festive meals. Open for lunch only, this is a great place to experience everyday Lebanese gastronomy.
PRACTICAL INFO: Tawlet (12 Rue Naher, Armenia Street). Open Monday to Saturday for lunch only (1 p.m. to 4 p.m.). Buffet formula at one price (45,000 LBP per head).
Alternatives to Tawlet?
- Maryool is a bright canteen in the Mar Mikhael district with decor that’s a mix of Scandinavian design and Middle Eastern tableware. It’s the perfect spot for a quick lunch, especially for vegetarians. Here, you can try small plates of Lebanese mezze with a twist: fatteh (a hot soup made with tahini), hummus with chorizo, and spicy oil-dressed chicory-kale are just a few of the surprising and delightful options.
PRACTICAL INFO : Maryool ,Pharaon Street, Mar Mikhael, Beirut. Open non-stop every day from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m.
- Seza is a charming bistro tucked away in a small alley in Mar Mikhael, where many Armenian families still reside. This cozy spot has a candle-lit terrace and a menu featuring traditional Armenian dishes like ‘itch (wheat salad with spiced tomatoes), lamb with cherries for the adventurous, and sweet pistachio desserts, which the house offers. The place has kept its intimate and friendly neighborhood vibe since it opened.
PRACTICAL INFO: Seza, Rue Patriarch Arida, Mar Mikhael. Open from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. and from 8 p.m. to midnight. Closed on Mondays.
- Onno is another Armenian gem, located in the trendy Badaro district. It’s known for its delicious soujouks, small spicy sausages with nuts, lamb awarma hummus, and daily specials typical of Armenian family cooking.
PRACTICAL INFO: Onno. Rue Badaro. Open every day from 11 a.m. to midnight (until 1 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays). New branches are open at the City Center and in the Armenian district of Bourj Hammoud.
3 p.m. – Shopping in the trendy boutiques of Beirut
If the Beirut Souks and the adjacent streets of the very chic Downtown concentrate most of the boutiques of global brands, from H&M to Hermès, you have to move slightly away from the strict center to discover the most interesting shopping addresses from Beirut.
Here are some great addresses to remember:
- Saïfi Village is a small pedestrian area near Place des Martyrs in Beirut. It’s known for its designer shops and concept stores. It’s like a mini Golden Triangle, where you can find stylish boutiques. Some top spots to check out are Nada Debs, which has beautiful furniture and design pieces, and Johnny Farah, known for high-quality leather goods, shoes, and accessories. Both are famous in Lebanon and beyond. If you’re in Beirut, Saïfi Village is a great place to shop for unique finds.
- Ginette, located on Gouraud Street between Gemmayzié and Mar Mikhaël in Beirut, is a cool mix of café, restaurant, art gallery, and luxury boutique. Ginette is a trendy spot where you can grab a bite, explore art, and shop for upscale items, all in one place. If you’re in Beirut and looking for a stylish hangout, Ginette is worth checking out.
- Sarah’s Bag (100 Rue Du Liban, Achrafieh): This brand specializes in handmade bags crafted by former inmates and underprivileged. Created by Sarah Beydoun, it combines fashion with social reintegration.
6:30 p.m. – Admire the sunset from the center’s super trendy rooftops
End your weekend in Beirut by experiencing the city’s fashionable rooftop scene. Near Place des Martyrs, you’ll find trendy spots like IRIS (Al Nahar Building, Downtown Beirut), and Capitole, where Beirut’s fashionistas and socialites gather. Capitole, in particular, has become one of the most popular rooftop terraces in recent months. If you’re up for it, head across the city to MYU on the Roof (Seaside Road, Karantina, Harley Davidson Building), a rooftop known for its lively club-like atmosphere. Note that MYU is only open on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights. If you prefer to avoid a flashy crowd, these rooftops might not be for you.
10 p.m. – End your day with a good shawarma at Boubouffe
Boubouffe Lebanese brasserie in Achrafieh is famous for serving the best shawarmas in Beirut. It’s the perfect spot to end your evening with a satisfying and casual meal
PRACTICAL INFO: Boubouffe (Charles Malek, Achrafieh). Open every day from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m.
SUNDAY: GOING TO BYBLOS
11:30 a.m. – Go on an excursion to Byblos
On your last day in Beirut, consider taking a trip to Byblos, a quaint fishing port about an hour’s drive from the city center. Known for its charm and history, Byblos was once a hotspot for celebrities like Marlon Brando in the 1960s. Even today, it’s a favorite getaway for Lebanese locals and Beirutians seeking to escape the summer heat. Enjoy the picturesque views, historic sites, and the relaxed vibe of this coastal gem.
PRACTICAL INFO : Allow around €25 to €30 (one way) to reach Byblos from the center of Beirut (taxi or Uber). Avoid traveling during rush hour, the highway between Beirut and Jbeil (the modern city where Byblos is located) is often very congested.
1 p.m. – Lunch at “Byblos Fishing Club”-the Byblos port institution
A visit to Byblos isn’t complete without stopping by the restaurant founded by Pépé Abed, often dubbed the “Hugh Hefner of the Middle East.” Known for his adventurous spirit, Pépé was a key player in the rise of luxury tourism in Lebanon. The story goes that his friend Marlon Brando, whom he met in Acapulco, Mexico, encouraged him to open this restaurant in the Byblos port after a night of drinking.
Since 1926, the iconic Fishing Club in Byblos has been a popular spot for the global jet set, especially in the 1960s and 1970s. It welcomed a host of celebrities and dignitaries, including Brigitte Bardot, Anita Ekberg (Pépé Abed had a fondness for beautiful women), and numerous heads of state.
Today, the Fishing Club thrives more on its legendary status than anything else, but that’s part of its charm. Visiting “Chez Pépé” is like taking a pilgrimage to honor one of Lebanon’s most flamboyant personalities.
PRACTICAL : At Pépé or Byblos Fishing Club (Port of Byblos). Open every day from 10 a.m. to midnight. Count on €25 to €45 a la carte.
2:30 p.m. – Exploring the millennial past of Byblos
Byblos, a coastal town perched on a sandstone cliff, holds the distinction of being one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, according to UNESCO. Its rich history spans back to the Neolithic era. This is where the oldest known Phoenician inscription was discovered on a sarcophagus, suggesting it could be the root of our contemporary alphabet.
When visiting Byblos, make sure to explore Byblos Castle, also known as Gibelet Castle. Built by the Crusaders in the 12th century on Phoenician and Roman foundations, the castle offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea.
PRACTICAL : Byblos Castle, open every day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission: 8,000 LBP (a little less than €5).
4 p.m. – Tan – and party – at Eddé Sands
A visit to Byblos wouldn’t be complete without spending some time at Eddé Sands, a top seaside resort known for its relaxing atmosphere and luxurious amenities. Even if you’re not staying overnight, you can still enjoy a day pass (36,000 LBP per weekend for adults) to make the most of this chic spot. Popular among Beirut locals, Eddé Sands is perfect for unwinding and enjoying the beach during your visit to Byblos.
Alternatives to Byblos?
If you’re looking to enjoy a beach day without heading to Byblos, there are two great private beach options near Beirut:
- For a relaxed vibe, check out Lazy B Beach, located about half an hour south of the city.
- If you prefer a more upscale setting, head to Orchid Beach Lounge, a popular spot about an hour north of Beirut, just past Byblos.
