Beirut

Beirut is Lebanon's capital and largest city, stretching along the Mediterranean coast with a blend of ancient history, modern architecture, and resilient urban culture. Landmarks such as Pigeon Rocks (Raouché), the Corniche, Martyrs' Square, and the Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque reflect layers of Phoenician, Roman, Ottoman, and French influence.

The city's past remains visible in its rebuilt Downtown, Ottoman-era buildings, and French Mandate architecture, while the National Museum of Beirut preserves archaeological collections from across Lebanon. The 2020 port explosion left lasting scars, yet reconstruction, street art, and renewed hospitality continue to reshape the city.

Neighbourhoods such as Hamra, Achrafieh, Gemmayzeh, and Mar Mikhael each have a distinct character, from bookshops and cafés to galleries, nightlife, and restored staircases. The Beirut Souks and Zaitunay Bay add waterfront shopping and dining near the centre.

Beirut is Lebanon's commercial and financial hub, home to banks, universities, media, and the Port of Beirut, and it remains relevant for conferences, creative industries, and international business. Its restaurant scene, rooftop bars, festivals, and coastal promenades draw leisure visitors.

Lebanese dining centres on mezze, manakish, kibbeh, fattoush, tabbouleh, and fresh seafood, found from street stalls to upscale restaurants. Whether visiting for heritage, business, food, or nightlife, Beirut offers a compact, layered urban experience shaped by Mediterranean energy and ongoing recovery.