Beirut Travel Guide — Things to Do, Food & Hotels
capital and largest city of Lebanon
About Beirut
Beirut has survived a rough history, falling under the occupation of one empire after another. Originally named Bêrūt, "The Wells" by the Phoenicians, Beirut's history goes back more than 5000 years. Excavations in the downtown area have unearthed layers of Phoenician, Hellenistic, Roman, Arab and Ottoman civilizations. Following World War II, Lebanon gained its independence from France and Beirut became its capital in 1943; Bechara El-Khoury and Riad El-Solh, Lebanon's first president and prime minister respectively, are considered the founders of the modern Republic of Lebanon and national heroes. Beirut thrived as a major commercial and tourist centre of the Middle East. It was a top destination among wealthy Arabs and European tourists, due to Beirut's unique geography, climate, divers
Top Attractions in Beirut
Explore the best things to see and do in Beirut:
- ★Atlantis
- ★Beirut Balloon
- ★Beirut International Film Festival
- ★Beirut International Jazz Festival
- ★Calypso Beirut Diving Club
- ★Festival du cinéma francophone
- ★LD
- ★Matignon Gallery
Beirut Travel Guide Sections
Our comprehensive guide covers 16 sections including: