Details About Beirut

Destinations » Mediterranean » Holy Lands » Beirut

Beirut is the capital of Lebanon and the country's largest city with just over one million inhabitants. Once known as the "Paris of the Middle East," Beirut suffered severely during Lebanon's 17-year war, which ended in 1990. Having seen earlier destruction by two earthquakes, a tidal wave and a fire, the city was able each time to rise again and recapture its splendor. Today, Beirut is back as a crossroads between three continents and as a gateway to the East. Not only restored, but also updated with a new airport, high-rise structures, commercial complexes and cultural centers.

Right Now

79º

Feels Like

Partly Cloudy
Real Temp: 79º
Humidity: 58%
Wind: NNE at 3 mph

Sun, 5/19

76º / 65º

Sunny

Mon, 5/20

74º / 63º

Sunny

Tue, 5/21

75º / 66º

Sunny

Wed, 5/22

76º / 64º

Sunny

Thu, 5/23

75º / 63º

Sunny

Fri, 5/24

76º / 66º

Sunny

Attractions

Much of Beirut's city center is best seen on foot. Archaeological excavation sites have unearthed finds from the Ottoman, Byzantine, Roman, Persian and Phoenician periods. They include the Roman baths behind Bank Street and the Roman columns west of St. George's Cathedral. Major banks, hotels, restaurants and cafes, post and telephone offices are located in the city center area known as "Solidere". The seaside Raouche district features the landmark Pigeon Rocks and is the site of numerous cafes overlooking the Mediterranean. The corniche road runs along Beirut's shores and is popular for walks.

Shopping

The best shopping can be found in the city center area called "Solidere". Other popular shopping is available at Bourj Hamoud (also known as the Armenian Bazaar) and at the ABC store in Achrafieh, both about a 10-minute drive from the port. Buys such as jewelry, carpets, electronic items and mixed nuts may be of interest. Bargaining is a common practice in shops, stalls and markets.

Currency

The local currency is the Lebanese pound.

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