Practical Tips & Hacks: Beirut

Money-Saving Strategies

Maximizing your budget during your Beirut exploration.

Local Deals & Passes

No widely available tourist discount cards.
Focus on other saving strategies.
Look for local deals.
Discover hidden value.

Efficient Travel

Utilize shared taxis (serviis) for economy.
Walk whenever possible within neighborhoods.
Beirut areas are quite walkable.
Discover hidden gems on foot.

Complimentary Explorations

Stroll the Corniche for sea views.
Visit Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque & St. George Maronite Cathedral.
Relax at Sanayeh Garden.
Window shop at Beirut Souks or Souk al Ahad.

Smart Dining & Drinks

Seek happy hour deals in Mar Mikhael.
Look for lunch specials (plats du jour).
Good value often found at local eateries.
Reduce dining costs.

Accommodation Choices

Hostels, guesthouses, and budget Airbnbs offer good value.

Budget Stays

Explore hostels and guesthouses.
Consider budget-friendly Airbnbs.
Cook meals from local markets.
Reduce food expenses with kitchen use.

Diverse Options

Traditional hotels for a different feel.
Serviced apartments for longer visits.
Furnished flats for extended stays.
Beachside accommodations.

Traveler Comfort

Comfortable stays across budgets.
Many options for various group sizes.
Cozy guesthouses offer unique charm.
Check for reliable internet.

Booking Strategies

Book ahead for peak times.
Read reviews before booking.
Compare different platforms.
Confirm reservation details.

Local Insights

Gain a view of Beirut with these local perspectives.

Common Visitor Errors

Not carrying USD cash is common.
Not negotiating taxi fares is frequent.
Ignoring chaotic traffic is a mistake.
Not having a local SIM or data is a challenge.

Local Customs

Lebanese hospitality is strong; accept coffee offers.
Modesty in dress is respected.
Patience and flexibility for schedules.
A warm demeanor is appreciated.

Unofficial Rules

Bargaining is customary in traditional markets.
Personal space can be closer.
Avoid sensitive political/religious topics unless initiated.
Be aware of sensitivities.

Phrases That Impress Locals

"Kifak?" (How are you? - to a man), "Kifik?" (to a woman)
"Shukran jazilan" (Thank you very much)
"Ahlan wa sahlan" (Welcome!)
Learning a few phrases deepens connection.

Currency Advice

Beirut's economy uses both USD and LBP. Many transactions prefer USD cash, especially smaller denominations.

Time-Saving Tips

Navigating Beirut efficiently lets you savor your visit, spending less time on logistics.

Efficient Sightseeing

Pre-booking day trips outside Beirut saves transport time.

Rapid Transit

Ride-sharing apps like Bolt and Uber offer swift travel.

Strategic Exploration

Group attractions by area to reduce travel between sites.

Time Strategies

Attraction Visits

Visit museums right at opening or late afternoon.
Pigeon Rocks are most atmospheric at sunset, but crowded.
Earlier visits to Pigeon Rocks offer quieter moments.

Travel Bookings

Pre-book flights and popular hotels.
Pre-book organized day tours for external sites.
This removes logistics planning.

Navigation Tip

Download offline maps for Beirut using Google Maps to access navigation without internet.

Practical Tips & Hacks