Lebanon, a country steeped in history, culture and natural beauty, offers a mesmerizing array of attractions that will leave any traveler in awe. From ancient ruins to breathtaking landscapes, Lebanon is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. Join us as we unveil the 12 must-visit places in Lebanon.
1.Harissa and Jounieh Teleferique
Perched upon a hill overlooking the picturesque Jounieh bay, the Statue of Our Lady of Lebanon stands as a remarkable symbol of spiritual significance and national pride. This 13-ton bronze statue of the Virgin Mary, erected in 1907, has become a revered pilgrimage site for all religions. The panoramic views from the top, make the journey to Harissa an unforgettable experience for any visitor to Lebanon.
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Don’t miss the impressive Teleferique aerial cableway in Lebanon! The cable car, which spans over 1.5 kilometers, provides passengers with breathtaking views of Jounieh Bay and the surrounding hills on the way up to Harissa, which is perched at an altitude of 530 meters above sea level. This one-of-a-kind attraction can carry a total of 960 passengers per hour, with the one-way trip taking around nine minutes.
Further reads: 10 Incredible places to visit in Keserwan
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2. Jeita Grottos
A finalist in the New 7 Wonders of Nature competition, the Jeita Grottos are a true marvel of nature.
Discovered in 1836, this enchanting cave is renowned for its extraordinary limestone formations, with stalactites and stalagmites taking on fascinating and diverse shapes, sizes and colors. With a lower cave offering a dreamy boat ride and an upper cave showcasing astonishing stone formations, this tranquil and serene site is a must for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the mystery and beauty of the underground world.
Further reads: 7 Caves & Grottos That’ll Blow Your Mind in Lebanon
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3. Byblos Old Port
Located on a cliff of sandstone, 40 kilometers north of Beirut, Byblos Port is believed to be the oldest in the world. It holds great historical significance as the most important timber shipping center in the eastern Mediterranean around 3000 BC. In fact, the Phoenicians used this port to export local wine, cedars of Lebanon and other wood to ancient Egypt.
Byblos is a testament to the rich history of the Phoenician civilization, with structures dating back 8000 years, including medieval town features, Bronze Age temples, Roman roads, Byzantine churches and Ottoman architecture. As a World Heritage Site, it also holds a direct association with the Phoenician alphabet.
Further reads: Historical Jewels of Jbeil
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4. Baalbeck and Anjar ruins
Baalbek and Anjar Ruins are ancient archaeological wonders that hold immense historical importance in Lebanon.
Baalbek Temple, with its towering columns and intricate carvings, showcases the grandeur of Roman architecture, while the Anjar ruins boasts a unique blend of Roman and Umayyad influences. These temples’ significance lies in their preservation of Lebanon’s rich cultural heritage, offering tourists a glimpse into the country’s ancient past. With their awe-inspiring structures and captivating history, Baalbek and Anjar are must-visit destinations in Lebanon.
Further reads: Tales as old as Time: Temples in Lebanon
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5. The Corniche Beirut and Pigeon’s Rocks
The Corniche, a waterfront promenade, offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, while Pigeon’s Rocks rise 60 meters above sea level. Both sites are synonymous with Beirut and must be seen. Don’t forget to look out for the fishermen and the swimmers.
Further reads: Art Galleries to Discover in Beirut
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6. Shouf Biosphere Reserve
The Shouf Biosphere Reserve — the largest nature reserve in Lebanon — is home to three magnificent cedar forests. These forests, which make up a quarter of the remaining cedar forest in the country, are estimated to be 2,000 years old. The reserve also serves as a sanctuary for various mammal species and plants, making it an important conservation site.
Visitors can enjoy activities like hiking, trekking, bird watching and mountain biking, and from the mountaintop, they can take in breathtaking panoramic views of the Bekaa Valley and the Mediterranean Sea.
Designated a biosphere reserve by UNESCO in 2005, the Shouf Biosphere Reserve covers approximately 5% of Lebanon’s total area and includes the Shouf Cedar Nature Reserve, the Ammiq Wetlands and 24 surrounding villages.
Further reads: Great Hiking Trails in Shouf
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7. Jezzine Waterfall
Jezzine is a picturesque village in South Lebanon, known as a popular summer resort and tourist destination. The town is famous for its stunning waterfall, which plunges some 90 meters.
Interestingly, the waterfall holds historical significance, as it is located near the Fakhr El-Din Grotto, which served as a hiding place for the Lebanese Emir during the Ottoman era.
Further reads: Top 5 Attractions in Jezzine
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8. Mar Charbel Annaya
Mar Charbel Annaya is a religious site in the Lebanese mountains. It is at the monastery that Saint Charbel, who was known for his spiritual devotions and healing the sick, is buried.
This holy place is not only peaceful, it also brings together people of all faiths from the four corners of the world.
Further reads: Exploring Religious Tourism in Deir El Ahmar
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9. Batroun Old Souks
Batroun Old Souks, brimming with history and cultural significance, are a must-visit attraction for tourists exploring Lebanon. These charming and vibrant markets, dating back centuries, offer a glimpse into the rich heritage of the region with their narrow alleys and traditional architecture. These days, the souks feature a large variety of restaurants, bars and coffee shops. The well-known Hilmi’s lemonade shop can also be found here.
Further reads: Discovering the Ancient Side of the Batroun District
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10. Saida Sea Castle
Saida Sea Castle is a coastal fortress that dates back to the 13th century. With its striking architecture and strategic location, it played a vital role in defending the city throughout history. Today, it is one of the most visited places in South Lebanon.
Further reads: Mini Guide to Saida
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11. Qadisha Valley
Steeped in history and culture, the spectacular Qadisha Valley is a must for tourists. This breathtaking valley has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its deep gorges, ancient monasteries and stunning landscapes.
Further reads: Discover the Enchanting Beauty of Bcharreh District
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12. Oyoun Orghosh
Nestled on the eastern foothills of Qornet El Sawda, Lebanon’s highest peak, lies Ouyoun Orgosh Lake. Here, freshwater springs form tranquil ponds amid rugged hills. Visitors can enjoy summer camping, invigorating hikes, off-road adventures and leisurely picnics while eating fresh fish, particularly trout, and delicious mezze from tented restaurants during spring and summer.
Further reads: 5 Captivating Lakes
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