Home to a culturally diverse population of over 3.4 million, Beirut is both Lebanon’s capital and its largest city and seaport. Set on a peninsula jutting into the Mediterranean Sea, its central position on Lebanon’s coast makes Beirut an excellent base for exploring the country.
Founded by the Phoenicians in the 15th century BC, Beirut is a historic city with a decidedly modern outlook, epitomised by the new Beirut Central District. Phoenician, Roman, Crusader and Ottoman remnants may be found a stone’s throw from sparkling new shopping areas and trendy nightclubs. Beirut’s lively nightlife and cosmopolitan sophistication are significant attractions of this picturesque seaside town.
Unlike other Middle Eastern countries, Lebanon has no desert. A mountainous central spine runs parallel to the sea coast, offering many opportunities for outdoor adventure close to Beirut, from scuba diving to skiing. Beaches dot the rugged Mediterranean shore, and day trips include well-preserved archaeological destinations such as the Roman ruins of Baalbeck, also the site of a major annual music and theatre festival.
Casting a prominent waterfront profile in the new Beirut Central District, Four Seasons is close to everything you'd wish to visit in the city, yet distinctively set apart.
Situated between the water and the mountains, Beirut allows you to take off for a day of hiking, skiing, swimming or surfing, or even tackle them all in one day.
Things to Do in Beirut
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AN ULTIMATE SKI VACATION IN LEBANON
From your base at Four Seasons Hotel Beirut, discover Lebanon's top six ski resorts just a few hours' drive from the city. Let our concierge plan the perfect excursion for you.
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DISCOVER THE BEST BOUTIQUE VINEYARDS
Enjoy a personal boutique winery experience on a two-day discovery tour arranged by our Concierge team, where owners and winemakers share their passion and wine in a small and personal setting.
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A Walking Tour of Downtown Beirut
To see the city’s best landmarks and enjoy its top shopping, food and cultural offerings, explore the Central District on foot.
Must-See Attractions
Deir El Qamar
Take a day trip to the hillside town of Deir El Qamar (Monastery of the Moon) and wind down its cobbled streets past well-preserved walled gardens and feudal palaces.
Jeïta Grotto
Take a journey to the centre of the earth and marvel at the stalactite and stalagmite in the cathedral-like lower cave space of Jeïta Grotto, just 18 kilometres (11 miles) north of Beirut.
Souk el-Tayeb
Indicative of Beirut's emergence on the organic food scene, the city's first farmers’ market is a great place to visit. Later, check out its sister markets, scattered throughout the city.
