The Ultimate Beirut Lebanon Walking Tour: See the City on Foot & Video

The Ultimate Beirut Lebanon Walking Tour: See the City on Foot

Table of Contents (Quick Links)

View all our CITY GUIDES

Listen (English voice)

Beirut Lebanon Video

The Ultimate Beirut Lebanon Walking Tour: See the City on Foot

Beirut, the capital city of Lebanon, is a fascinating destination with a rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. One of the best ways to explore this beautiful city is by taking a walking tour. By walking through the streets of Beirut, you can immerse yourself in its unique atmosphere, discover hidden gems, and experience the local way of life. In this article, we will guide you through the ultimate Beirut Lebanon walking tour, highlighting the must-see attractions and providing helpful information along the way.

Section 1: Martyrs’ Square and the Lebanese Civil War Memorial:

  • Martyrs’ Square: Start your walking tour at Martyrs’ Square, a historic and symbolic location in Beirut. This square has witnessed many important events in Lebanon’s history and is surrounded by significant buildings.
  • Lebanese Civil War Memorial: Visit the Lebanese Civil War Memorial, located in Martyrs’ Square, which pays tribute to the victims of the civil war that took place from 1975 to 1990. The memorial serves as a reminder of Lebanon’s turbulent past and the importance of peace and unity.

Section 2: Beirut Souks and Zaitunay Bay:

Beirut Lebanon

  • Beirut Souks: Explore the vibrant Beirut Souks, a modern shopping district that blends traditional and contemporary architecture. Here, you’ll find a wide range of shops, restaurants, and cafes, offering plenty of opportunities for shopping and dining.
  • Zaitunay Bay: Take a stroll along Zaitunay Bay, a picturesque waterfront promenade lined with luxury yachts, trendy restaurants, and cafes. Enjoy the beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea and relax in one of the waterfront establishments.

Section 3: National Museum and Sursock Museum:

  • National Museum: Visit the National Museum of Beirut, which houses an extensive collection of archaeological artifacts that showcase Lebanon’s ancient history. Explore the galleries and learn about the Phoenician, Roman, and Byzantine civilizations.
  • Sursock Museum: Discover the Sursock Museum, a stunning mansion-turned-museum that showcases contemporary and modern art from Lebanon and the Arab world. Admire the beautiful architecture and immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene of Beirut.

Section 4: Gemmayzeh and Mar Mikhael:

  • Gemmayzeh: Wander through the charming neighborhood of Gemmayzeh, known for its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and vibrant nightlife. Explore the art galleries, boutique shops, and trendy bars that make this area a favorite among locals and tourists.
  • Mar Mikhael: Continue your walk to Mar Mikhael, another hip neighborhood in Beirut. This area is known for its street art, trendy cafes, and lively bars. Experience the vibrant atmosphere and enjoy the local street food.

Beirut Lebanon

Section 5: Pigeon Rocks and Raouche:

  • Pigeon Rocks: Head towards the iconic Pigeon Rocks, natural rock formations located off the coast of Raouche. These towering rocks are a popular tourist attraction and offer breathtaking views of the sea.
  • Raouche: Explore the neighborhood of Raouche, known for its upscale residential buildings and luxurious hotels. Take a leisurely stroll along the Corniche, a waterfront promenade, and enjoy the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Section 6: Downtown Beirut and Nejmeh Square:

  • Downtown Beirut: Discover the heart of Beirut in Downtown, a vibrant area filled with shops, restaurants, and historical landmarks. Admire the beautiful architecture and visit the famous Place de l’Étoile, the central square of Beirut.
  • Nejmeh Square: Visit Nejmeh Square, located in Downtown Beirut, which is surrounded by important buildings such as the Lebanese Parliament and the Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and observe the daily life of the locals.

Beirut Lebanon

Section 7: American University of Beirut and Hamra Street:

  • American University of Beirut: Explore the beautiful campus of the American University of Beirut, one of the leading educational institutions in the Middle East. Admire the stunning architecture and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
  • Hamra Street: Walk along Hamra Street, a bustling commercial and cultural hub in Beirut. This vibrant street is lined with shops, cafes, and bookstores, making it a popular destination among students and intellectuals.

Section 8: Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque and Roman Baths:

  • Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque: Visit the Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque, one of the most famous landmarks in Beirut. Admire the impressive architecture and explore the interior of this beautiful mosque.
  • Roman Baths: Discover the ancient Roman Baths, located in the heart of Beirut. These well-preserved ruins provide a glimpse into the city’s Roman past and are a must-see for history enthusiasts.

Section 9: Beirut Corniche and Manara Lighthouse:

  • Beirut Corniche: Take a leisurely walk along the Beirut Corniche, a scenic promenade that stretches along the city’s coastline. Enjoy the fresh sea breeze, admire the stunning views, and relax in one of the parks or cafes along the way.
  • Manara Lighthouse: Reach the Manara Lighthouse, a historic landmark and popular meeting point in Beirut. Climb to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.

Section 10: AUB Museum and AUB Neighborhood:

  • AUB Museum: Visit the AUB Museum, located on the campus of the American University of Beirut. This museum showcases a diverse collection of archaeological artifacts, Islamic art, and contemporary Lebanese art.
  • AUB Neighborhood: Explore the neighborhood surrounding the American University of Beirut. This area is known for its lively atmosphere, trendy cafes, and cultural events. Immerse yourself in the vibrant student life of Beirut.

By following this ultimate Beirut Lebanon walking tour, you will have the opportunity to experience the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landmarks. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, stay hydrated, and take breaks whenever needed. Enjoy your exploration of the beautiful city of Beirut!

References:

  • beirut.com
  • timeoutbeirut.com
  • lonelyplanet.com
  • lebanon.com
  • visitlebanon.com