Located on the coast of Lebanon, the capital city of Beirut is one of the oldest cities in the world, with a rich history and thriving modern life. It’s a perfect size for visiting for a few days, and there’s quite a bit to explore, discover, and enjoy. Here are just some of the things worth doing during a visit.
Marvel at Baalbek
The Roman temple at Baalbek, which is also called Heliopolis or The City of the Sun, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and something you absolutely must see when in Beirut. It’s enormous, grand, and truly awesome in the most literal sense of the word. Plus, it doesn’t even have an entrance fee.
Watch a Film in Achrafie
For something a bit more modern-meets-ancient, head over to Achrafie, which is one of the oldest parts of the city and is a great place for a stroll. You can end your visit to the neighborhood by stopping by the only arthouse cinema in the city, the Metropolis Sofil, to see an interesting movie.
Grab a Drink in Mar Mikhael
While pubs and clubs aren’t typically common in Arab cities, Mar Mikhael is the one spot in Beirut where you can expect to enjoy a youthful, hip scene with graffiti, galleries, and several bars and clubs to visit. It’s a great spot for people-watching.