Must See

Baalbek

Located near the Syrian border at an altitude of 1,170 m (3,850 ft), Baalbek is famous for its exquisitely detailed and wonderfully preserved temple ruins of the Roman period, when the city (known then as Heliopolis) was one of the largest sanctuaries in the Empire. Visitors may take a peek into the Roman world at this temple complex, behind which soar the grand columns of the Temple of Jupiter.

Beirut

Jutting out into the Mediterranean and shadowed over by some towering mountains, this vibrant city appears to be recovering from the damage inflicted during Lebanon's 16-year civil war. Many areas have been reconstructed or rebuilt, giving the capital a young and modern feel, yet it also retains some charming old souks and the Turkish bath at Al-Nouzha gives a glimpse of the old Beirut.

Beit ed-Dine

This small town in the Chouf District, about 50 km southeast of Beirut, is famous for its magnificent Beiteddine Palace, built by Bashir Shihab II in 1788 and taking 30 years to complete. Italian architects and the best craftsmen from Damascus and Aleppo were invited to work on the project, giving it a style that is a cross between traditional Arab and Italian baroque. Although it was damaged in the Lebanese civil war, it has since been restored. Parts of the palace are today open to the public while the rest is still the president's summer residence.

Bsharri

Also known as Becharre, this city in the northwest was the birthplace of the famous Lebanese poet Khalil Gibran, author of The Prophet. Attractions include the Gibran Tomb and Museum, the Cedars of God forest, Kadisha Valley, a ski resort and Bka'kafra (the birthplace of St Charbel).

Byblos

According to many historians, Byblos is the oldest continuously-inhabited city in the world, with excavations unearthing artefacts dating back to Neolithic times as well as from Canaanite, Phoenician, Hellenistic, Roman and Crusader periods. The remains of its Crusader castle are among the most impressive architectural structures now visible at its centre. Fishing boats and pleasure craft ply the old harbour.

Jeita Caverns

Just 20 km (13 miles) north of Beirut are the spectacular Jeita caverns, which are set on two levels. The lower gallery includes an underground waterway which can be explored by boat.

Raouche

Enjoy a stroll along the promenade at this lively seaside resort on the outer reaches of Beirut. The imposing Pigeon Rocks are the city's most famous natural attraction - and particularly enchanting at sunset.

Tripoli

The feel of Arabia hangs about this captivating second city, overlooking which stands an imposing Crusader castle. The city boasts some splendid Mameluk architecture, fine mosques and medieval souks (covered markets). In the port area (Al Mina) visitors can enjoy delicious Lebanese food at the city's numerous seafood restaurants and fish markets. Nearby, the Island of Palm Trees is a UNESCO-listed nature reserve for green turtles and rare wild birds.

Tyre

Jutting out from the coast of the Mediterranean Sea 80 km (50 mi) south of Beirut is the ancient Phoenician city of Tyre (the name of the city means 'rock'). The city has many historic sites, including the Roman Hippodrome(one of the largest ever found); public baths, civic buildings; mosaic streets, and an extensive network of Romano-Byzantine roads.

Close by, there are some pleasant beaches, which offer access to swimming, waterskiing and sailing. There's also the opportunity for divers to explore the underwater archaeological ruins.

Mountains

The mountains and gorges in Lebanon present excellent terrain for hiking. In addition, mountain resorts such as The Cedars, Bakish, Faraya, Faqra, Zarour and Laklouk offer excellent skiing facilities and accommodation.