Beirut visitor guide
Practical essentials for visiting Beirut, Lebanon. Every fact links to an official or government source.
Some areas of Lebanon are under official travel warnings. Check the latest advice before you go. UK FCDO — warnings ↗
Emergency numbers
Source: UK FCDO — getting help ↗
Getting around
- Taxis, shared “service” taxis and private minibuses; there is no metro.
Airports
- BEY · Beirut–Rafic Hariri International — 8 km from the centre (straight line) · Website ↗ · Directions ↗
Distances are straight-line from the city centre; road distance is longer.
Weather by month
| Month | Avg high | Avg low | Humidity | Rain |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 17°C | 10°C | 67% | 169 mm |
| Feb | 17°C | 10°C | 68% | 118 mm |
| Mar | 19°C | 12°C | 69% | 117 mm |
| Apr | 23°C | 15°C | 67% | 39 mm |
| May | 26°C | 19°C | 62% | 25 mm |
| Jun | 29°C | 22°C | 64% | 7 mm |
| Jul | 31°C | 25°C | 62% | 1 mm |
| Aug | 31°C | 25°C | 65% | 2 mm |
| Sep | 30°C | 24°C | 64% | 5 mm |
| Oct | 28°C | 20°C | 60% | 30 mm |
| Nov | 24°C | 16°C | 59% | 69 mm |
| Dec | 19°C | 12°C | 66% | 142 mm |
comfortable (avg high 32°C or below) · very hot (avg high 38°C or above)
Etiquette & dress
- Dress codes are more relaxed than elsewhere in the region, but dress modestly at religious sites.
- Only take photos at tourist sites; photographing military or secure areas can lead to arrest.
- Flying a drone without permission is illegal.
- During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public in daylight.
Source: UK FCDO — safety and security (laws and cultural differences) ↗
Visas & entry
Entry rules depend on your nationality and change often. Check the official portals before you book.
Currency & tipping
The official currency is the Lebanese pound (LBP), but US dollars are widely accepted and are the main cash currency. Many places do not take cards, so carry enough cash. Prices on Wherepicks are shown in US dollars.
Source: UK FCDO — safety and security (currency) ↗
No official tipping guidance; rounding up or about 10% for good service is common but optional.
Plan your time in Beirut
Facts checked Oct 30, 2026. Always confirm with the official source before you travel.