City by the Mediterranean

Beirut

A coastal capital where ancient Phoenician roots meet cosmopolitan energy — cafés and galleries by day, lively streets and sea breezes by night.

🇱🇧 Lebanon Mediterranean Levant Phoenician Heritage

About the City

Beirut is the capital and largest city of Lebanon, set on a peninsula along the eastern Mediterranean. Long a crossroads of trade and ideas, it blends historic neighborhoods, seaside promenades, and a dynamic cultural scene with theaters, galleries, and a vibrant food culture.

The city’s districts range from the café-lined streets of Hamra and the academic vibe around Ras Beirut to the historic quarters of Gemmayzeh and Mar Mikhael, where traditional architecture sits beside contemporary design. The iconic Pigeons’ Rock (Raouché) cliffs frame sunsets over the sea.

Character & Culture

Beirut’s identity is a mosaic: Arabic is the official language while French and English are widely used; music, literature, and design flourish; and cuisines from mezze to modern fusion shine. Despite periods of hardship, the city’s spirit is famously resilient and welcoming.

Local tip: Coffee culture is serious — try a strong Lebanese coffee or a leisurely café sit by the Corniche.
At a glance

Key Figures

Country
Lebanon
Levant, Western Asia
Population (metro)
~2–2.4 million
Estimates vary by source
City Area
≈ 20 km²
Compact, high-density
Elevation
Sea level – 200 m
Rises quickly toward Mount Lebanon
Languages
Arabic • French • English
Multilingual everyday life
Time Zone
EET (UTC+2)
EEST (UTC+3) in summer
Currency
Lebanese pound (LBP)
Cards & cash both used
Airport
BEY
Beirut–Rafic Hariri International
Calling Code
+961
Lebanon country code

History in Brief

Ancient Berytus was a Phoenician port later developed by the Romans, famed for its law school. Through Byzantine, Arab, Crusader, Mamluk, and Ottoman eras, Beirut remained a maritime hub. Under the French Mandate in the early 20th century, it expanded rapidly and became independent with Lebanon in 1943.

The Lebanese Civil War (1975–1990) divided and scarred the city, but reconstruction and cultural revival followed. Today, Beirut’s layered history is visible in archaeological sites, museums, and its eclectic cityscape.

How to Travel There

  • By air: Most visitors arrive via Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY), a short drive south of central Beirut.
  • Visas: Requirements vary by nationality — check the latest guidance from Lebanese authorities or your local embassy before traveling.
  • Best times: Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November) offer pleasant temperatures for walking the Corniche and exploring neighborhoods.
  • Getting around: Taxis and ride-hailing are common; “service” shared taxis run set routes. Buses connect coastal districts and nearby cities.
  • Money & connectivity: Cards are accepted in many places; having cash is useful. SIM cards and eSIMs are available from local carriers.
  • Etiquette: Dress codes vary by area and venue; tipping (~10%) is customary in restaurants and cafés.
  • Safety & notices: Conditions can change — consult current travel advisories and local news close to your departure date.