How to get to Beirut

Beirut is the colourful capital of Lebanon, situated on the sunny coast of the Mediterranean Sea, where thousands of years of history coexist with the modern energy of a metropolis. When planning how to reach the city of Beirut, tourists most often choose air travel, although there are other routes for those already in the region. This city, often referred to as the "Paris of the Middle East", is open to travellers ready to immerse themselves in its unique atmosphere.

The easiest way to arrive in the city is to fly into Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY), which serves as the country's main air gateway. The airport is located in the immediate vicinity of the city and receives regular flights from Europe and the Middle East.

If direct tickets are unavailable, travellers often use connecting flights via neighbouring Cyprus, arriving in the city of Larnaca (207 km), from where the flight to Lebanon takes less than an hour. Although airports in the cities of Damascus and Haifa are geographically close, they are rarely used as transit points for trips to Lebanon due to logistical specifics and border regulations.

At the moment, it is impossible to reach Beirut by train, as there is no operating railway station in the city, and passenger services within the country are suspended. Historical tracks are currently not used for regular tourist transport.

The nearest cities where railway infrastructure functions are located outside Lebanon: these are Damascus, Haifa and Larnaca. However, due to the lack of cross-border trains connecting these hubs with the Lebanese capital, tourists should choose alternative modes of transport.

Since the centralised schedule of international buses to Beirut changes frequently, this mode of transport requires verifying information on the spot. The main flow of buses and shared taxis ("services") arrives from the Syrian border, providing connections to nearby regions.

Domestic bus services are better developed: there are routes connecting the capital with coastal cities and mountain districts. Travelling by bus can be a budget-friendly way to see the country, but it is worth allowing extra time for possible delays on the road.

A trip by car to Beirut requires careful route planning. The only realistically accessible land route for tourists lies from the direction of Syria: the road from the city of Damascus (a distance of about 110 km) takes approximately 2 hours, excluding time for border crossing.

Regarding other nearby points indicated on the map, driving from the city of Haifa (377 km) is impossible due to closed land borders. A direct trip by car from the city of Larnaca (564 km) is also unfeasible, as it is located on an island, and ferry services for vehicles are irregular.

To ensure your journey to Beirut is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant impressions, it is worth considering a few local features and etiquette rules.

1. Clothing and Style. Beirut is a city of fashion; casual style and European clothing are common here. However, for visiting historic mosques and religious neighbourhoods, be sure to carry modest clothing that covers the body.
2. Transport. For moving around the city, it is most convenient to use the Uber app or local "services" (shared taxis). Agree on the price with a street taxi driver strictly before boarding.
3. Finances. Both local Liras and US Dollars are in circulation (it is better to have small denominations). Cards are accepted in large establishments, but cash is necessary for taxis and small shops.
4. Health. Drinking tap water is not recommended — buy bottled water. Also, do not forget sunscreen, as the sun here is very strong.
5. Communication. Locals are very friendly and often speak three languages: Arabic, French, and English, so communication problems usually do not arise.
6. Local Etiquette. The Lebanese are famous for their hospitality. Refusing offered coffee or treats may be perceived as impolite.
7. What to Avoid. It is strictly forbidden to photograph military objects, checkpoints, and government buildings — this can lead to confiscation of equipment and legal proceedings.
8. Gastronomic Tip. Do not order the main course immediately — start with traditional "mezze", a set of various appetisers which is the heart of a Lebanese feast.

Following these simple recommendations will help you adapt faster to the rhythm of the city and enjoy its rich culture and incredible cuisine.