Jurisdiction Guide

April to early June and September to November offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Summers can get hot and humid on the coast, while winters in the mountains bring snow for skiing.

Cash is king, but larger places in Beirut accept cards. Tipping is common (around 10 percent in restaurants). Taxis usually don't use meters, so agree on the fare beforehand. Pick up a local SIM card at the airport for better rates and coverage. English will get you by in much of Beirut, but some rural areas speak mostly Arabic or French.

Greet with a handshake or light cheek kisses if you know someone well. Dress is casual in Beirut, but more conservative clothing is expected in rural areas and religious sites. During Ramadan, avoid eating or drinking in public during daylight in Muslim-majority areas. Avoid political debates or questions about the civil war.

Street protests can appear with little warning, especially in Beirut. Petty theft happens, so keep an eye on your bag in crowded places. Roads can be chaotic, drivers are aggressive, and road conditions may be poor outside cities. Tap water is not always safe to drink; bottled water is cheap and easy to find.

The Shouf Biosphere Reserve offers peaceful trails and wild cedar forests far from city noise. In Tyre's old fishermen's harbor, you'll find authentic seafood spots and little tourism. Batroun's old souk is a great place for a slow walk and homemade lemonade.

Many Europeans, North Americans, and GCC citizens can get a free tourist visa on arrival at Beirut airport for stays up to 30 days. Those with Israeli stamps in their passports will be denied entry. Working or long-term residency requires separate permits, and there are no official digital nomad visas.

There are no domestic flights or national rail. Shared taxis called 'service' and minibuses run between cities, but can be cramped. Apps like Bolt work in Beirut, while car rental is straightforward for those comfortable with Lebanon's driving habits. Long-distance buses are cheap but not always on time.

Mezze dominates local meals, with dishes like hummus, tabbouleh, and moutabbal featured everywhere. Try manakish (herb flatbreads) for breakfast and fresh-caught fish on the coast. Arak, an anise-flavored spirit, usually accompanies long lunches. Tap water is best avoided, use bottled. Vegetarians find many options, but vegan or gluten-free eaters should double-check ingredients.

Travelers on a tight budget can eat well and find hostels or guesthouses from $20 a night, especially outside Beirut. Mid-range hotels start around $60, while comfortable stays in central Beirut can top $120 per night. A falafel sandwich rarely costs more than $3 in local shops, while a taxi ride from the airport to city center runs about $20.