Introduction
Once described as the Paris of the Orient, Lebanon is home to many of the Middle East's most captivating sights. Capital Beirut, rebuilt after the civil war, is most charming in its beautiful downtown and, with Lebanon such a small country, the capital makes for an easy base for access to nearly all the main regions in one day trip.
Head to the Corniche seaside promenade for an evening stroll before you indulge in one of the many stylish eateries and don't miss Raouche, famous for its cliff-top restaurants overlooking the famous Raouche Rocks. In fact, Lebanon's nightlife and dining scene in general is excellent, with traditional Lebanese food – and even wines – world-famous.
Other must-sees include Tyre for some superb archaeological sites including one of the largest Roman hippodromes ever found and Sidon’s Crusader-era Sea Castle. For more Roman ruins, travel to Baalbeck, once the site of the largest stone block construction in the world and home to many Phoenician remains. This UNESCO-listed area was listed by the World Heritage Website as ‘one of the finest examples of Imperial Roman architecture at its apogee'. Elsewhere, don't miss historic Byblos – this UNESCO-listed site is cited as one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, and its pretty harbour is dotted with seafront promenade restaurants home to ultra-fresh seafood.
B’charre is another must-see. Known as the Christian heartlands, this spectacular mountain setting is surrounded by the hidden monasteries and the famous cedars of Lebanon that adorn the country’s flag. The spectacular Jeitta, a natural underground grotto that's home to 2km of limestone karst caves, is also well worth a visit.
