🇱🇧 Beirut, Lebanon: The Paris of the Middle East

Beirut is one of the most dynamic, complex, and culturally rich cities in the Mediterranean. It’s a place where Roman ruins stand beside Ottoman mosques, where sea meets mountain, and where nightlife and art thrive in the shadow of ancient history. A city of contrast and charisma, Beirut will move you with its energy and spirit.

🏛️ History & Heritage – 9.0/10

Beirut has been continuously inhabited for over 5,000 years — and you can feel its history on every street corner.

Must-see landmarks:

• National Museum of Beirut: A world-class archaeological museum showcasing Phoenician, Roman, and Byzantine artifacts.

• Martyrs’ Square & Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque: A central plaza and one of Beirut’s most beautiful architectural icons.

• Roman Baths: Ancient ruins in the heart of downtown that date back to the 1st century AD.

• Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral: Built over a Roman temple and one of the oldest active churches in the city.

🌆 Neighborhoods & City Vibes – 9.2/10

Beirut is a tapestry of neighborhoods, each with its own personality.

Notable districts:

• Gemmayzeh & Mar Mikhael: Hip, bohemian areas filled with art galleries, vintage shops, graffiti-covered walls, and buzzing cafés and bars.

• Hamra: Beirut’s intellectual heart, home to the American University of Beirut (AUB), bookstores, and lively restaurants.

• Downtown Beirut (Solidere): A blend of modern luxury, restored heritage buildings, and public squares.

• Raouché: Known for the Pigeon Rocks, a dramatic sea cliff and sunset hotspot.

🌊 Seaside & Natural Beauty – 8.7/10

Despite being a dense urban city, Beirut offers unique natural escapes.

• Corniche Beirut: A palm-lined promenade where locals jog, fish, and sip coffee by the sea.

• Pigeon Rocks: Majestic rock formations rising from the Mediterranean — a must-see at sunset.

• Beirut Beach Clubs: From laid-back to luxurious, enjoy beach life just minutes from downtown.

• Mount Lebanon Day Trips: In under an hour, you can ski in the morning and swim in the afternoon — only in Lebanon!

🍽️ Food & Culinary Scene – 9.6/10

Lebanese cuisine is one of the best in the world, and Beirut is its capital.

Don’t miss:

• Mezze: Hummus, moutabbal, tabbouleh, fattoush, kibbeh, and labneh — small dishes packed with flavor.

• Manakish: A Lebanese flatbread with za’atar or cheese, perfect for breakfast.

• Seafood by the coast: Fresh fish grilled or fried with tahini or garlic sauce.

• Armenian food in Bourj Hammoud: Discover Lebanon’s Armenian diaspora cuisine.

• Lebanese sweets: Try knefeh, baklava, and mafroukeh with a cup of Arabic coffee.

🎨 Culture, Art & Music – 9.3/10

Beirut is the beating heart of Middle Eastern creativity.

• Sursock Museum: A modern art museum in a beautiful 19th-century mansion.

• Beit Beirut: A bullet-scarred building turned museum that tells the story of the civil war.

• Live music: From traditional oud sessions to jazz and techno, Beirut’s music scene is vibrant and diverse.

• International festivals: Film, music, and theater festivals take place throughout the year.

🛍️ Shopping & Souks – 8.5/10

Shopping in Beirut is a mix of old-world charm and modern glamour.

Top spots:

• Souk el Tayeb: A Saturday farmers' market offering organic produce, spices, and homemade goods.

• Beirut Souks: A modern shopping complex with designer brands and local boutiques.

• Mar Mikhael Boutiques: Indie fashion, handmade accessories, and local designers.

• ABC & Beirut City Centre: Upscale malls with international stores.

🌃 Nightlife & Entertainment – 9.5/10

Few cities in the region party like Beirut does.

• Rooftop bars: Enjoy cocktails with views of the Mediterranean or Mount Lebanon.

• Clubbing: From house and techno to Arabic pop, Beirut’s clubs are legendary.

• Live venues: Check out Metro Al Madina or The Grand Factory for eclectic performances and DJ nights.

• Beach parties: Summer weekends are for dancing by the sea.

🛏️ Where to Stay – 8.9/10

Options for all budgets:

• Luxury: Le Gray, Four Seasons, Kempinski.

• Boutique: Albergo Hotel, O Monot.

• Budget: Hamra and Achrafieh offer great hostels and affordable stays.

🗓️ Best Time to Visit – 9.0/10

• Spring (March–May): Blooming hills, mild temperatures, fewer crowds.

• Autumn (September–November): Warm, pleasant weather and vibrant city life.

• Summer (June–August): Hot but festive — ideal for nightlife and beachgoers.

📊 Beirut Ratings Summary:

• History & Heritage: 9.0

• Neighborhood Vibes: 9.2

• Seaside & Nature: 8.7

• Culinary Scene: 9.6

• Culture & Arts: 9.3

• Shopping & Markets: 8.5

• Nightlife & Entertainment: 9.5

• Accommodation & Accessibility: 8.9

• Best Travel Seasons: 9.0