Epic LOCAL Guide to 3 Days in Beirut ✔️ Full Itinerary +PDF!

Beirut, the most gorgeous, infuriating city. Let us be your guide with our curated itinerary to discover the hidden gems of this ancient, intricate place.

As a local in this gorgeous, chaotic city, I’ve got ALL the most amazing tips for you + a full itinerary for spending 3 days in Beirut!

I’ve spent so much time in this city, I’m absolutely bursting with tips!

By the end, you’ll have a FULL itinerary planned out for you + helpful PDF.

This isn’t just any ordinary itinerary – I’ll be giving you an off-the-beaten-track local’s tour of the city, away from the tourists, deep into the heart of the Lebanese capital.

No time to scroll? Just download my free PDF below and check out my where to stay section for all the basic info:

Day 1: Getting settled & finding your way around Beirut

Your first day in Lebanon’s capital city is going to consist of getting to grips with the city, finding your way around, and eating! 

Food always helps me feel at home, so I’ve also recommended THE best places to eat throughout the day – and finding your way between these places will help you get a good feel of the city. 

There are so many things to do in Beirut, so I’ve picked the BEST activities. Trust the experts!

NOTE: I’m assuming that you’re staying in and around Achrafieh for 3 days in Beirut. Trust me, it’s the best area to stay! For more details on hotels, see the Where to Stay tab after the itinerary 🙂

Morning

First things first, DON’T have breakfast in your hotel! I know it feels too easy to leave your room and just head down to the breakfast hall, but trust me when I say you need to get out into the city and have breakfast somewhere local. 

It’s early, you’re groggy, Beirut is very hot, and you need caffeine and food. I’ve got you!

Head over to Abou Hassan in Bourj Hammoud (map). Grab a to-go coffee from literally any stand on the street on your way (trust me, the coffee will taste just as good).

When you arrive, Abou Hassan might look like nothing from the outside. But trust me – in Beirut, the best places look super shabby at first glance. Once you get in, the game changes!

Not sure what to order or new to Lebanese food? Here’s what to order from Abou Hassan:

• Foul
• Fatteh with laban
• Msabbha
• Hummus with meat
• Eggs with halloumi

They’ll also bring you olives, mint, bread, tomatoes, and pickled turnips, so make sure you try it all! 

I promise you, you will forever thank me for this. The best thing? It’s open 24/7!

Once you’re done, take a walk back through Bourj Hammoud towards the city center – you’ll likely need a little stroll after all that food! It’s a fantastic area to get lost in, and once you get over the bridge (map) you can pretty much go anywhere. 

Fancy a free walking tour run by a local? These tours are the BEST, and they’ll really help you get around Beirut. Since it’s completely free, don’t forget to tip!

NOTE: Beirut was not made for walking. But who cares? We walk anyway! Try to stick to the pavement as much as you can, but you may have to walk on the side of the road sometimes. Don’t panic, cars expect pedestrians to be on the road, so this is totally normal. Just keep your wits about you and embrace the chaos!

Afternoon

Time to get yourself over to West Beirut! 

West and East Beirut were politically distinct in the 1970s (until 1990) to separate warring Christian and Muslim factions. This line was dubbed The Green Line. You’ll be visiting a sniper’s lookout on The Green Line on day 2!

Getting over to the other side of West Beirut requires public transport. Sure, you can walk – but as I previously mentioned, this is not necessarily for the faint of heart. Go for it if you don’t mind the rush! 

Here are the other options for a more relaxed journey:

Service (pronounced serveese)

This can get complicated, but once you get it, it’s easy! Services are shared taxis with red number plates. They’re everywhere! Just flag one down in the street and say “Service awwal Hamra.” They may or may not say yes – if they do, they’ll give you a nod, and if they say no…well, they’ll just drive off 😂

Uber

Uber is a super reliable option in Beirut. And yes, Uber is very safe in Lebanon! Just use the app as normal, but do not pay by card. Always use cash, the drivers prefer it and you may have to negotiate the price a little bit. Otherwise, it works the same way as everywhere else, and most of the drivers speak some English (or French). 

Hamra itinerary

Once you get to Hamra, go up to Sanayeh Park (map) and have a stroll around. There aren’t many green spaces in Beirut, so this is your chance to get away from the madness for a few minutes!

Sanayeh has free public Wi-Fi! Sometimes it doesn’t work (classic Lebanon behavior) but sometimes it does, so try your luck!

Once you’ve digested, take a walk from Sanayeh down to Luna’s (here’s a map of the walk). Luna’s is a quiet vegan café, bar, and restaurant, and the people who run it are so nice!

There’s Wi-Fi there, so you can sit in the courtyard and enjoy the ambience with an afternoon cocktail and some cheese rolls – in my book, it’s always 5 PM somewhere! 

On your way to Luna’s, don’t forget to walk slowly! Take it all in, stop off in the shops, and enjoy the experience. Hamra is a mad, noisy area and there’s so much to see!

When you’re done, head back to your hotel to shower, get changed, and relax a bit. Beirut is super chaotic so having a bit of downtime is important if you want to keep your energy up!

Evening

Time for happy hour! Guys, Beirut is the nightlife hotspot of the Middle East, so grab those shorts (not too short) and head on down to Mar Mikhael (map).

Mar Mikhael comes alive at night, and most people sit at tables directly on the street. It makes for a super buzzing atmosphere! 

With all the tables blocking the sidewalks, you’ll likely need to walk on the road. It’s ok! Just do it, everyone else will be doing the same. The street is narrow so it might be a tough squeeze between the cars sometimes, but that’s half the fun 🤪

You can choose pretty much any bar! I personally love Strada 51 on the steps, Vivyan’s, and Internazionale. Make sure to chat to people, make friends, and enjoy the night!

I know, I know – I haven’t mentioned dinner yet. Since you’re already on Mar Mikhael, here are the TOP places to grab some nosh!

• Le Chef – for classic, homemade Lebanese fare
• Smoking Bun – for epic burgers (with vegetarian options)
• Mayrig – for fancy shmancy Armenian food
• Mario e Mario – for romantic Italian food
• Makan – for Asian fusion
• Crew Hut – for a grab ‘n go sandwich!

Stay out as late as you want, and meet as many people as you can. In Beirut, community is key, and the more people you know, the better! Head up to a Mar Mikhael rooftop and party the night away!

PRO TIP: Love karaoke? Head over to Drink & Sing in Downtown Beirut!

NOTE: If you’re a female solo traveler, feel free to stay out late, just make sure you don’t walk home by yourself after 10 PM. Grab an Uber to take you home or, if you’ve befriended a group, they’ll probably offer to drive you back. If you’re just a short walk from your hotel (less than 10 mins) then feel free to walk, but any further than that and you should take a car.

Day 2: Seeing the most important sites

How was your first day? Are you in love with the chaos yet?! *sigh* me too.

On day 2 of your 3 days in Beirut, you’ll be seeing the most epic historical sites, museums, as well as some awesome hidden gems.

And yes, I’ve got you covered with the best food Lebanese society has to offer! 

Morning

Time to get up early again! Go grab a Lebanese coffee at Café Younes in Sodeco (map) and then head over to an early Flow & Glow session at the Beirut Yoga Center, just a few steps from the Café. 

These sessions are amazing, and they have early morning sessions at 8:45 AM on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. On Tuesdays and Thursdays the sessions start at 10:30 AM. 

Check out their schedule here! And don’t worry, you can borrow a mat from them there, so just go in your comfy yoga pants 🧘

You’ll probably be a bit peckish after all that stretching, so grab a falafel from M. Sahyoun (map)! It’s right opposite the yoga center. You can’t visit Beirut without going, and it’s the BEST falafel you’ll ever have, I promise! 

Take a leisurely stroll down to Martyrs’ Square and see the looming Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque, the center of attention to be sure!

The Al-Amin Mosque in central Beirut shares a wall with the St George Maronite Cathedral. It’s supposed to symbolize religious harmony, but Rafic Hariri built it much taller to become the central spot of the square!

Go inside the mosque and have a mooch around – you’ll need to remove your shoes and put on one of the robes at the entrance, and if you ask the Imam very nicely, he’ll sing the call to prayer for you and translate it!

Top off your morning by checking out the Roman ruins of a crusader castle next to the mosque and a trip into the Beirut Souks in Downtown Beirut (map) for fancy designer window shopping!

Afternoon

Time to get your museum on! 

Beirut’s museums and cultural spaces are awesome, and they’ve got something for everyone. Whether you’re traveling with kids, going on a solo trip, or in a duo, you’ll find something for you.

Here’s a list of all the best museums so you can choose whichever suits you:

• The National Museum of Beirut – for archeological exhibitions in Achrafieh
• Dar El Nimer – a political and cultural space with monthly exhibitions in Hamra
• MIM Mineral Museum – stunning gems, fossils, and crystals for the geology fan in Achrafieh
• Beit Beirut – a cultural center in a snipers’ lookout on The Green Line
• DAK NGO – a Palestinian-Lebanese cultural center for local artists in Sin-el-Fil
• Nicolas Sursock Museum – a stunning contemporary art museum in Achrafieh
• AUB Archeological Museum – for ancient artifacts and exhibitions at the American University in Hamra
• Dar Al-Mussawir – an awesome, independent photography space in Hamra

My personal favorite is Beit Beirut. They have really interesting exhibitions and you can learn all about how the building was used in the Lebanese Civil War. The building has been preserved really well, and the 17,000 people still missing live on through the monument’s expositions.

Evening

Tonight, we’re heading over to Raouche, where you’ll find restaurants with fresh seafood, people smoking arguileh on the promenade, hot corn stands, ka’ake vendors, and sunset views over the Pigeon Rocks. Sounds dreamy, right?

For dinner, I recommend Al Falamanki. They serve traditional Lebanese fare with tasty grilled meats and some beautiful salads. The ambiance is perfect for a balmy summer evening, so try to sit outside!

If you were tempted by the fresh seafood option, definitely hit up Bay Rock Cafe. Grab a table right across from the rocks and enjoy the stunning sunset views across the sea. It’s romantic for 2, calming for 1, and great for groups of friends, too!

The Pigeon Rocks are a stunning sight, and if you’re lucky, you can find boat owners willing to take you on a jaunt right up next to them (sometimes with wine 🍷). Apparently, there’s an icy twin of the Raouche Rocks in Greenland!

Why not explore Raouche on a boat with your loved one? This tour is awesome, it’s so romantic and the best way to see the area!

Once you’re done, take a wander down the corniche and enjoy the pretty lights and views of snow-capped mountains. Take a right up some side streets into Hamra main street, where you should head to Captain’s or Neighbors Pub for some cozy vibes and doo-doo shots!

If you want something more civilized, walk right down the corniche to Zaitunay Bay, where there are lovely restaurants/bars lit up by glittering streetlights. Super romantic spot along the Mediterranean Sea!

PS: a doo-doo shot is well worth the trip, trust me. It’s vodka, lemon juice, tabasco, and an olive. Swallow it whole and watch your night take a turn!

Day 3: Markets, hidden gems, & local haunts

We made it to day 3! Congrats, you’re becoming more ensconced in Beirut and learning its nuances. Day 3 is more about local hidden gems that aren’t crowded with tourists. 

Today, you’ll get a better sense of what it’s like to live in Beirut. 

Morning

If today happens to be a Saturday, I highly recommend checking out Souk El Tayeb, a farmers’ market on Armenia street (map) with local produce, sweets, wine, and honey grown in the mountains. Grab some brunch there while you’re at it!

If it’s not a Saturday, or you’re not a farmers’ market kind of traveler, then head down to Barbar in Hamra for a manouche! 

Manouche is a doughy, delicious breakfast treat! The classic is za’atar with cheese, but you can also have soujouk (spicy sausage), kishk (cheese made from yogurt and bulgur wheat), cheese and turkey, and so many more!

Don’t forget to ask for all the fixings – double cheese manouche with fresh mint, olives, and cucumber. YUM!! It’s classic street food!

Once you’re done, go get your hair done! I’m serious – if you’re a guy, go to literally any barber shop, and if you’re a gal, go to Jackyo Salon & Spa. 

Getting yourself beautified in Beirut is a ritual. For men, the barber is a place of community, where you have coffee while you’re getting your beard shaped. For women, the salon is a must for regular grooming. And for foreigners, the prices are incredible! Go get a blowout and get your nails done for your final day in Beirut 💅

Afternoon

Now for some shopping! I have to admit, Beirut isn’t exactly known for its shopping. There are designer stores in the souks in downtown Beirut, but generally speaking, you don’t go to Lebanon to shop.

However, there is one place beloved by locals where you can find all sorts of vintage, previously-loved, and thrifted clothing. Depot-Vente (check out their Instagram page here) is legendary, is the home of Beirut’s glamorous hipsters and a fantastic place to while away an afternoon.

The store is right at the end of Armenia street on Khalil Badawi, a peaceful area just before the madness of the highway and the jumble of Bourj Hammoud. It’s pretty easy to find, unlike many places in Beirut!

After you’ve exhausted all your cash and found some gems, you can walk just a few steps down the street to Tota (map). Grab a smoothie, a cocktail, some snacks, and sit outside in the sun for a while. 

It’s also a music venue and cultural space, so check out their Instagram for events!

Tota also has free Wi-Fi, so it’s a great place to sit to get some work done. I recommend the turmeric latte, it’s amazing! ☕

Evening

Ah, your last evening in Beirut. Better make this one count!

Tonight, we’re not venturing to the crowded Mar Mikhael or the sordid steps of Hamra’s nighttime community. 

Tonight, we’re headed to somewhere a little hidden!

Get dressed up and grab an Uber (or a service, but at nighttime Uber is safer and more reliable) and head over to Union Marks (map).

This place is super cool. It’s really well hidden, and the entrance is a long, gravel driveway that doesn’t exactly look like the entrance to a public spot. But behind it all, a leafy courtyard with jumbled tables will emerge.

Grab a cocktail and enjoy the atmosphere. It’s not somewhere you’ll want to spend all night, but its eco-brutalism vibes offer a relaxed way to start off the fun!

For dinner, you have 3 options:

• Sit-down meal – make a beeline for Apo! Apo offers Armenian/Lebanese cuisine in a casual, cozy atmosphere. It’s a little hidden from view but totally worth it. Map here.
• Grab ‘n go – if you want to keep the night going, walk down to Basterma Mano and taste their famous basterma! Map here.
• 1 AM snack – Makhlouf is the place to be for late-night snacks! Their shawarma is absolutely legendary and the portions will fill you right up. Map here.

Whatever you choose, don’t forget to make some time for Cantina Sociale next to Sassine Square (map). They have great food there, but the real rockstar at CS is the wine!

Cantina have local Lebanese wines for every taste and budget. Château Ksara, Musar, and Domaine Des Tourelles are just some examples. And honestly? The vibe there is just great. It’s a favorite for locals and an amazing place to hang out with friends. 

At Cantina, the staff are so friendly! It makes the place feel like home, and after all that wine, you’ll have the warmest, fuzziest memories of Beirut and everything it has to offer. You’ll remember your last night forever!

Where to stay for 3 days in Beirut

If you’re going to Beirut for 3 days or a long weekend, I recommend staying in Achrafieh or Geitawi. These are calm, predominantly Christian areas, and you’ll be in the perfect spot to enjoy everything on this itinerary. Plus, it’s an easy 30-minute taxi ride to Beirut airport.

Luxury (US$150+)

• O Monot Boutique Hotel – Looking for an epic rooftop pool to enjoy the sunrise in Beirut? THIS is the one! O Monot has gorgeous, modern rooms and it’s right next to downtown Beirut & Sodeco so you’ll be able to get around easily. 
• Arthaus Beirut – This place is the stuff of legends. It’s like a hidden palace amongst the chaos of Beirut! Totally worth the price, the whole place is stunning and the outdoor pool is to die for.
• Albergo Hotel – just 10 mins from Gemmayze, Albergo screams elegant luxury. Marble bathrooms, cozy bedroom furniture, and lush outdoor spaces abound here!

Mid-range (US$50 – 150)

• Charbel’s Airbnbs (Dayf Lebanon) – Charbel and his team have loads of Airbnbs, but my husband and I stayed in this one and loved it! It’s right next to Armenia street and it’s so cute and cozy. They’ll even give you a SIM card and help you out with anything you need!
• Sodeco Suites –  The staff here are lovely! For luxury at a great price, this place has a gym, kitchenettes in the rooms, and it’s right next to the National Museum. 
• Saifi Suites – If you love a private balcony and your own kitchenette, go with this one in Saifi Village. Saifi Suites is next to Gouraud street & the St Nicholas Stairs, so you’ll be close to all the fun. 

Budget (Up to US$50)

• Hostel Beirut – I’ve stayed in Hostel Beirut SO many times. I practically lived there, and with good reason! Staff are amazing, it’s a great place for solo travelers to meet new friends, and the location is unbeatable in the quiet neighborhood of Geitawi.
• Heritage Apartment – Located on Mar Mikhael, this place is perfect if you want to enjoy a true Lebanese-style apartment all to yourself. It’s bright, airy, and celebrates old-fashioned Lebanese living!
• Hamra Urban Gardens – HUG is technically in Hamra, but it’s excellent on a budget and fantastic for solo travelers, so I had to include it! They also have an epic rooftop pool and bar where you can relax and take it easy when the chaos gets too much.

FAQs about spending 3 days in Beirut

⚡ Is it dangerous to travel to Beirut?

It’s very safe to travel to Beirut. I’d recommend taking the same precautions as anywhere else (like keeping your valuables hidden, not walking alone late at night etc) but generally Lebanon is super safe. It’s also well worth the visit! 

👪🏽 How should families spend 3 days in Beirut?

There’s plenty of things to do for families and kids in Beirut! Families can hang out at one of the museums, go to the corniche for hot corn, or spend the day at Ramlet Al Baida near Ras Beirut (just don’t go in the water!)

⏱️ How should I spend 2 days in Beirut?

You should definitely follow the first 2 days of this Beirut itinerary! That way, you can see all the most important sites and eat at the best restaurants Beirut has to offer.

📆 How many days in Beirut is enough?

If you’re new to Lebanon, I think spending around 3-5 days in Beirut is enough. If you’re staying in Lebanon for longer, use the extra time to travel around the country, and you can always return to the madness after! There are so many amazing things to do in Lebanon so don’t waste time!

🚱 Can you drink the tap water in Beirut?

No! Please don’t drink the tap water in Beirut. Unless you want a bad tummy bug (or worse, D&V), I’d stay safe with bottled water. If you’re staying in a hotel, they should provide it. If you’re staying in an apartment, ask your neighbors for the local water guy’s number and he’ll send someone round with a gallon!

🚶🏽‍♀️ Is it safe to walk around in Beirut?

Yes! It’s not a city that was really made for walking, but it’s totally doable. Don’t forget, if there’s no sidewalk, just walk at the side of the road. This is normal, and drivers are expecting you to do it. PRO TIP: If you’re attempting to cross a road, cars won’t stop for you, so just make a run for it because the traffic lights don’t usually work!

🌧️ What is the weather like in Lebanon?

The weather in Lebanon is seasonal. It gets cold, snowy, and rainy in the winter months, and lovely and hot in the summer! The weather in Beirut can get very humid and polluted in the summer, so don’t forget to spend some time out in the mountains for some fresh air!

🚗 What are the Beirut parking fees in 2024?

Beirut parking fees nowadays are subject to change due to the present situation in Lebanon, but a full day of parking should be between 250,000 – 300,000 LL.

Conclusion

Ok guys, you made it! I hope you loved the itinerary, so let me know how it goes! If you need any extra tips, don’t forget to check out my post on solo travel in Lebanon, for all the info you’ll ever need for an easy, breezy vacay!

If you love it, download my PDF below so you can print it out and take it with you!

Let me know if you have any questions, I’d be happy to answer them. As you can see, I LOVE talking about Beirut, so ask away!

Happy travels my Beiruteers!

Lizzie