10 Days Highlights of Lebanon

About the destination: Beirut is the capital of Lebanon and the gateway to the country. It is multi-cultural and successfully blends the passions of the east with the refinement of the west. Modern and old and liberal and traditional, Beirut offers superb restaurants, amazing nightlife, excellent shopping and hotels of all ranges. It is also rich in history and architectural heritage that span several millennia and civilizations, with traces of Roman and Phoenician heritage visible to this day. Beirut is also a great departure point to explore the rest of Lebanon, which offers a blunt contrast to the wealthy capital with a western silhouette, all within no more than a two hour drive. With its beautiful architecture and scenery, delicious cuisine, exciting nightlife and amazing history, Beirut is a destination not to be missed.

About the destination: Byblos, in Arabic Jubayl is a Mediterranean city in the Mount Lebanon Governorate, Lebanon. It is believed to have been occupied first between 8800 and 7000 BC. and according to fragments attributed to the semi-legendary pre-Homeric Phoenician priest Sanchuniathon, it was built by Cronus as the first city in Phoenicia. It is one of the cities suggested as the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world[citation needed] and the site has been continuously inhabited since 5000 BC. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

About the destination: Discover Baalbek: Ancient Wonders and Timeless Beauty Nestled in the Bekaa Valley of Lebanon, Baalbek is an ancient city that exudes history and magnificence. A journey to Baalbek transports visitors back to the times of emperors and gods, where grand temples and mysterious ruins tell tales of a bygone era. Known as Heliopolis during the Hellenistic period, Baalbek boasts some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the world, making it a must-see destination for history buffs and curious travelers alike. Upon arriving in Baalbek, the first stop for any visitor should be the Baalbek Temple Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The complex consists of several monumental structures, including the Temple of Jupiter, distinguished by its colossal columns that once supported an immense sanctuary; the beautifully detailed Temple of Bacchus, a testament to Roman architecture and art; and the enigmatic Temple of Venus, smaller yet charming in its own right. As you traverse the stone grounds, allow the sheer scale and artistry of these ancient wonders to captivate your imagination. Beyond the temple complex, the city of Baalbek itself offers a vibrant slice of Lebanese culture. Stroll through local markets to experience the warmth of the people, sample traditional Lebanese cuisine, and perhaps find a unique souvenir to take home. The city's rich tapestry of history is evident not only in its architecture but also in the stories and hospitality of its residents. For those who seek a deeper understanding of Baalbek's past, the Baalbek Museum, located within the temple complex, houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that provide insight into the lives of the ancient civilizations that once thrived here. And when the sun begins to set, casting golden hues over the towering pillars and stone blocks, be sure to find a quiet spot to watch the sunset; it's a magical moment when the present briefly touches the ancient world, leaving visitors with a sense of wonder that will last long after their journey home.

About the destination: Sidon, known locally as Sayda or Saida, is the sixth-largest city in Lebanon. It is located in the South Governorate, of which it is the capital, on the Mediterranean coast. Tyre to the south and Lebanese capital Beirut to the north are both about 40 kilometres (25 miles) away. Sidon has a population of about 80,000 within city limits, while its metropolitan area has more than a quarter-million inhabitants.