Classic Lebanon
Suggested Itinerary
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Overview
Lebanon has undergone a rebirth in recent years to present visitors with a country that enjoys the rich benefits of an ancient past and a bustling Mediterranean future. The perfect introduction to this diverse country, a short stay in Beirut offers the chance to explore cities and sites that have been forged over the centuries by Phoenician traders, Roman legions and fierce crusades. Arrive into Lebanon’s capital, Beirut, known as the ‘Paris of the Middle East’ in its heyday....
Lebanon has undergone a rebirth in recent years to present visitors with a country that enjoys the rich benefits of an ancient past and a bustling Mediterranean future. The perfect introduction to this diverse country, a short stay in Beirut offers the chance to explore cities and sites that have been forged over the centuries by Phoenician traders, Roman legions and fierce crusades. Arrive into Lebanon’s capital, Beirut, known as the ‘Paris of the Middle East’ in its heyday. Discover its remodelled centre, visit its mosques and historic churches before exploring its Corniche and its famous Pigeon Rocks. Then journey out of Beirut to uncover wonderful sites; from Roman ruins to crusader castles, expansive wineries and ancient Phoenician port cities.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
Suggested Itinerary
This is a suggested itinerary. Our experts have all travelled widely in the region and will be happy to tailor any of our itineraries to suit your tastes, or build a trip from scratch.
DAY 1: BEIRUT
DAY 1: BEIRUT
At the airport, you will be met by a representative, who will escort you to the hotel in a private air-conditioned vehicle. Settle into your base for the next 4 nights and enjoy dinner in one of Beirut's many fantastic restaurants.
DAY 2: BEIRUT - BYBLOS - BEIRUT
DAY 2: BEIRUT - BYBLOS - BEIRUT
Today head out of Beirut and visit the ancient coastal town of Byblos, one of the great city-ports during the Phoenician period. The history of the town goes back at least 7000 years and it was here that the scribes of Byblos developed the world's first alphabetic script, a precursor of our modern alphabet. Near the old town is an impressive archaeological site overlooking the Mediterranean Sea; with Phoenician ramparts dating from the 2nd and 3rd millennium BC, a Roman theatre, crusader castle and the famous tomb of the Phoenician King Hiram - who was a contemporary of King Ramses II of Egypt.
DAY 3: BEIRUT - BAALBEK - KSARA WINERY - BEIRUT
DAY 3: BEIRUT - BAALBEK - KSARA WINERY - BEIRUT
The drive this morning takes you 86 km from Beirut to Baalbek, probably the most impressive historical site in Lebanon and some of the best Roman ruins in the Middle East. The temple precinct contains the monumental Temple of Jupiter, completed in 68 AD, and the Temple of Bacchus, dating from 150 AD, perhaps the most intact temple to have survived from classical times. Nearby the main ruins is the Temple of Venus, a circular building with many fluted columns which in the early Christian era was turned into a basilica dedicated to St. Barbara. The visit will be followed by a wine tasting and lunch at the Ksara Winery, the country's oldest winery, before returning to Beirut.
DAY 4: BEIRUT - SIDON - TYRE - BEIRUT
DAY 4: BEIRUT - SIDON - TYRE - BEIRUT
On the last day of exploration from Beirut, you will travel to the once flourishing Phoenician city of Sidon, also known as Saida. The port town highlights include the Phoenician Temple of Echmoun, the Crusader Castle of the Sea, the picturesque Khan of the Franks, built in 1610 for French merchants, and the Great Mosque, which was converted from a church after the departure of the Crusaders. Your guide will then escort you on to Tyre, the birthplace of the legendary Queen Dido and, allegedly, purple dye. Visit the ancient Phoenician ruins before returning to Beirut for a free evening.
DAY 5: DEPART BEIRUT
DAY 5: DEPART BEIRUT
Following breakfast, you will be met at the hotel and transferred to the airport in time for your departing flight.
SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION
Zanzoun, Beirut
A gorgeous bed and breakfast, Zanzoun is set within a traditional Lebanese home, tucked away in Mar Mikhael. The exclusive heritage property has only three queen-size rooms, all boasting antiques and artwork from the host Zeina’s travels in the Levant. The private courtyard provides a quiet escape from the city and is the perfect spot for a home-made breakfast. Bathe in the warm colours of the interiors as you relax in the library and living area following a day of activities, such as cooking classes, calligraphy or cycling. Close by to the hotel are a selection of restaurants, bars and art galleries.
Hotel Rating
Accommodation listed here is intended as a guide only, to give you a taste of what we can do. Our experts can tailor any aspect of this itinerary and accommodation to suit your budget and tastes.
GUIDELINE PRICE & WHAT’S INCLUDED
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ACCOMMODATION
BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE
ACCOMMODATION
Book With Confidence
We understand that flexibility is now a key factor when booking a holiday, and we believe our Covid Promise and Covid Viable Test provide that.
We believe these terms and conditions for making a booking are amongst the most generous in the travel industry right now, and we hope they will give you the confidence, when you feel ready, to go ahead and book your next adventure.
This itinerary is aimed to give you an idea of what we can offer. The price shown above is per person, based on two people travelling outside of peak periods. As this itinerary is only a suggestion and can be tailor-made to suit your interests and budget, your final price may differ.
Positive Impact of this Trip
START PLANNING YOUR TRIP
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Up-to-date knowledge and advice from our experienced consultants on the best places to stay, things to do and regions to visit to make your holiday the trip of a lifetime.
EXPERIENCED LOCAL GUIDES
We use experienced local guides to help bring the sights to life, introduce you to local characters and ensure you get under the skin of your destination.
HAND-PICKED ACCOMMODATION
Whether you are looking for a boutique hotel, homestay, local guesthouse, luxury spa, tented camp or heritage hotel, our experts can select the perfect property for you.
24-HOUR SUPPORT
Our local agents are there to help you on the ground should you need any assistance, and in addition you will be given a 24-hour UK emergency phone number.Meet the expert, Dan
Dan is our Middle East expert, who has travelled extensively in the region.
Speak to Daniel by calling
+44 (0)20 3944 6258