Lebanon with Kids

Important facts and information to know when visiting Lebanon

There are not too many countries where you can be skiing one minute and sunning yourself on the beach the next. But did you know Lebanon is the only Middle East country without a desert?

It sounds like the ideal short escape, however, its unique geographic position sandwiched between Syria and Israel has also meant over the generations conflict has, sadly, never been far away.

History mixed with modern style, the Capital Beirut “the Pearl of the Middle East” is a relatively small and easy city to explore but not to be rushed, its charm is in discovering its beautiful hidden corners. But don’t forget to get beyond the city and discover ancient wonders, amazing vineyards and astounding natural beauty.

Sidon Sea castle Lebanon | Destinations in the Middle East

Important Facts for Lebanon

Official Name	Lebanese Republic
Capital	Beirut
Currency	Lebanese Pound (USD common); 1LP=0.00067USD
Language	Arabic (French, English & Armenian also common)
Religion	Muslim / Christian
Leadership	Parliamentary Republic
Important Dates	Independence day 22 November. Ramadan & Islamic holidays observed
Climate	Mediterranean
Electrics	Varies - Type A, B, C, D, E G can all be found
Visas	Most countries free visa on arrival
Safety	See full safety advisory visiting Lebanon

Latest Safety Information

Large parts of Lebanon are currently under “do not travel advisories” with parts also known as “reconsider travel”, including Beirut. Political tensions since late 2019 have only been exacerbated by COVID-19 and the Beirut Port Explosion.
You can read more on the exact regions currently impacted via international government sites including The US State Department, UK Foreign Office and Australian Smart Traveller.
Crime, armed conflict in nearby countries and terrorism threats are all cited as potential reasons to reconsider travel to the region. Tripoli and the Northern regions bordering Syria are not considered safe, nor are some of the southern areas of Beirut where there are Palestinian refugee camps.

Read our full guide to travel safety for families in Beirut and Lebanon here

Lebanon visa information

Passport holders of most countries are eligible for a free Visit Visa on Arrival
There are 7 visa-exempt countries – those holding passports from the GCC and Jordan
If you have an Israeli stamp on your passport you may be denied entry – this is not uncommon in the Middle East, see Israeli visa information for more on how this can be avoided

Click here to find out more about Lebanon Visas

Points for family visitors to be aware of in Lebanon

Ladies are not required to be covered but a conservative standard of dress is expected
Any child travelling from Lebanon without their father will need a permission letter
You may be asked to prove you are married before sharing a room as a couple

General travel tips for visiting Lebanon

The country is majority Muslim, with a large Christian minority
The holy month of Ramadan is observed, as are Christmas and Easter
The dress code may be more relaxed than in other parts of the region but you should still consider modesty at all times, especially when visiting religious sites
Carry identification documents at all times and consider getting a driver in case you are stopped
US and Lebanese pounds are both available from ATMs. The Lebanese Pound is fixed to the USD at 1507LBP=$1USD. Note the LBP has suffered immense devaluation since 2020.
Only used pre-booked recognised taxi services, it’s not recommended to hail cabs from the street. We suggest AlloTaxi or Charlie Taxi
Unlike most of the Middle East, Lebanon follows a Monday to Friday work week, usually working shorter days Friday

See our regional guide to culture and religion for more – coming soon

When is it best to visit Lebanon

Lebanon is the one the furthest north of the Middle East countries. Situated on the Mediterranean, Beirut has warm summers and cool winters – though boasts 300 days a year of sunshine!

It can get hot and humid in the summers but it makes it the perfect time to hit the beaches – nowhere near as hot as their Gulf counterparts with daytime averages of only 32°C/90°F – and much cooler in the mountains.

Unlike most of the Middle East, winters can get wet in Lebanon, even snow can be experienced! On the plus side, skiers may catch some snow in the tallest mountains. Expect temperatures of 10-20°C/50-68°F in the winter months.

You can find our complete guide to the best times to visit Lebanon here

Most Popular Attractions in Lebanon

A fascinated country with a deep history that can be dated back 9000 years to the time of the Phoenicians. Places of geographic and historic importance in Lebanon that you may want to consider in your Lebanon itinerary include:

Byblos – explore one of the oldest cities in the world, its castle and historic port
Baalbek – visit the ancient temples of Jupiter, Venus and Bacchus deep in the Beqaa Valley
Jabaln Moussa Biosphere Reserve – About an hour north of Beirut you will find this UNESCO site, rich in biodiversity with historic villages, hiking trails and unique fauna and flora not found elsewhere in the world
Qadisha Valley – Visit the mountainous village of Bcharré, the Gibran Museum and the “Cedars of the Gods” forest
Arts, History & Culture – Beirut National Museum, contemporary galleries Amrfs and ARTLAB
Explore the Jeitta Grotto with its subterranean lake on a day trip from Beirut
Stroll the Corniche in Beirut and see the famous Raouche Rocks
Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque and Ottoman Ruins in downtown Beirut

Whilst many parts of Lebanon are easy to reach by car on a day trip, you may want to consider a longer road trip around Lebanon.

And don’t miss the food! There’s a great guide here to all the different dishes you should try at least once during your stay in Lebanon.