Lebanon is a small country, yet it is extremely wealthy in terms of culture, scenery, and history. This magnificent Mediterranean spot is a perfect combination of old cities, mountain retreat, beach and lively nightlife to the traveler planning their first trip. One of the last things you should know before planning your itinerary is the guidelines of entry, in particular, when traveling there as an Indian. Most people in their first visit seek Lebanon travel permission to Indians and once that is sorted you can start visiting the endless Places to Visit in Lebanon which will remain memorable in your life.

Lebanon has a history of hospitability, good food, beaches and sightseeing sites. The country has its own unique things to offer whether you love nature, history or food. Some of the most popular places to visit by a first time traveler are discussed below.

1. Beirut – The Heart of Lebanon

The capital of Lebanon, Beirut, has to be included in the list of the best Places to Visit in Lebanon. The city is vibrant and it combines contemporary living with past glory so easily. Start with the Corniche, an exotic seashore driveway that has gorgeous sights of the Mediterranean Sea. Walk in the Downtown Beirut, with its restored street, quaint cafes, and contemporary architecture ready to share the space with ancient mosques and churches.

Visitors who love nightlife will not stop at Gemmayzeh or Mar Mikhael, which are two of the hippest areas with bars, restaurants, and art places. To explore the history of the country in details, go to the National Museum of Beirut where thousands of archaeological objects of the Phoenician and Roman periods are stored.

2. Byblos – A Journey Back in Time

Byblos is a city that is the oldest in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is an archeological, cultural and beach-loving paradise. Take a tour of the Crusader Castle, the old Phoenician ruins and take a picturesque walk in the beautiful Byblos Old Souk. The ideal location with its quiet marina and sea food restaurants, Byblos will be the perfect mix of history and relaxation.

Byblos is certainly among the best Places to Visit in Lebanon by first-time travelers who plan to explore the real heritage and Mediterranean beauty.

3. Jeita Grotto: Natural Wonder

Jeita Grotto must be on your list of places to visit in case you are fond of natural marvels. This is a spectacular sight that consists of two intertwined limestone caves with stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Tourists are rowed around the lower cave in a boat which cuts across the crystal clear waters surrounded by shimmering structures. The upper cave has light trails where one can view wonders of the earth in form of rock structures which have been made by nature in millions of years.

Jeita Grotto is often regarded as one of the most beautiful cave systems in the world, as well as it is used as a representative of the natural beauty of Lebanon.

4. Harissa -The most beautiful of the coast

Harissa is located on a hill overlooking Jounieh bay where the famous statue of Our Lady of Lebanon is located. When visiting the top, more frequently used means of transport are the teleferique, a fun cable car where the travelers get a panoramic view of the coastline. Upon arrival at the peak, one gets to enjoy spectacular views, quiet walking space, and religious sites. Harissa is a dazzling place which amazes every spectator at sunset.

5. Baalbek – The City of the Sun

Baalbek is situated in the Beqaa Valley and is an attraction site that every history lover must visit. The city boasts of some of the greatest Roman ruins in the world. The Temple of Bacchus, Temple of Jupiter and Temple of Venus are characterized by impressive architecture and detailed carvings of the stones.

The old majesty of Baalbek is a tourism masterpiece that one cannot afford to miss out on visiting the country. This site is an exciting experience, in case you are an archeologist or a monumental architecture enthusiast.

6. Tripoli- True Lebanese Culture

Tripoli, the second-largest city in Lebanon is far more traditional and authentic. The ancient souks can be listed among the largest ones in the Middle East, full of spice stalls, crafted bakery shops, soap vendors, and gold shops.

The Citadel of Raymond de Saint-Gilles is another to be missed that offers panoramic views of the city. Tripoli is also a place to have a tasty dessert of Tripoli Sweets, which is quite a must to every food lover.

7. The Cedars of God – A Mountain Getaway

On the mountains of Lebanon to the north exists the mythical Cedars of god, a forest that was declared a UNESCO site and is composed of old cedar trees which are thousands of years old. It is the best place to be in terms of nature, where there are hiking facilities, mountain breaths, and snow winter games.

Neighbouring Bsharri, the home of poet Kahlil Gibran, is also a good place to visit. The scenery, particularly during the winter is spectacular.

8. Tyre – A Coastal Seaside Retirement

Tyre is the best place to visit those who want to have beautiful beaches and archaeological treasures. In the city, there is a large necropolis and a huge hipodrome, both in excellent condition and being Roman ruins. Tyre has sandy beaches which are ideal in swimming, relaxing and having the authentic seafood meals by the waterside.

This serene place of interest presents an ideal combination of history, culture and beach beauty.

Conclusion

Lebanon is a unique nation that has its ancient cities, breathtaking nature, and its modern life that is full of life. The bustling streets of Beirut, the grandiose ruins of Baalbek and the Cedar of God, all of these destinations have something a bit different to remember. These marvelous sites are a guarantee of a very rich experience in the nation to the first-time visitors.

You should ensure that you check your entry requirements before you plan your travel dates. In case your destination is India, one of the things you have to do is to complete your documents- and it is not hard to get visa to Lebanon online through the services of reliable travel agents like Go Kite Tours. Ready, venture, and be ready to see the everlasting Lebanese beauty.