How to plan your Small Group Tour Baalbeck Cedars and St Antoine Kozhaya Day Trip from Beirut

If you are planning to travel to Beirut, one of the most popular activities to do is to take a tour of the surrounding area. The Small Group Tour Baalbeck Cedars and St Antoine Kozhaya Day Trip is one of the tours one may take. In this blog post, we will guide you on how to plan this day trip, including the tour overview, meeting points, itinerary, and things you can expect.

Tour Overview

The Small Group Tour Baalbeck Cedars and St Antoine Kozhaya Day Trip is a full-day tour that takes you on a journey outside of Beirut. This day trip introduces travelers to the scenic Lebanese countryside, with visits to some of the most historically significant religious sites in the country.

What’s Included

The package includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, a friendly English-speaking guide, lunch at a local restaurant, entrance fees, and all gratuities.

Meeting and Pickup

The tour starts at 08:00 AM, and the pick-up point is from any hotel or place of residence in Beirut. Participants need to be ready in the hotel lobby at 8:00 am for pick-up. If you are not staying in Beirut, you can meet the tour guides at their office in Beirut, pre-tour.

What To Expect

The tour will take you through many picturesque spots, including Qadisha Valley, Bcharre, and St. Anthony of Kozhaya, visiting the Monastery of Saint Antoine and the Cedars of God, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. The tour guides will help you understand the history and significance of these sites. You’ll also visit the ancient city of Baalbeck, known for its well-preserved Roman temples.

Qadisha Valley (Pass By)

Qadisha Valley, also known as the Holy Valley, is a fantastic canyon located in North Lebanon. The valley was granted the title “Holy Valley” due to its deep association with the Maronite monastic tradition.

Bcharre (Pass By)

The tour passes by Bcharre, the highest village in Lebanon, sitting above the Kadisha Valley. The town holds many interesting cultural and historical sites, including churches, museums, and ancient ruins.

Monastery of Saint Antoine

The Monastery of Saint Antoine, one of the most significant pilgrimage sites in Lebanon, is our next stop. It is a complex of a cave, chapel, and Hermitage of Saint Helene situated on the side of a cliff. The caretakers of the monastery sell religious items like icons, rosaries, and books.

Cedars of God

The Cedars of God is a nature preserve located in the Bsharri Mountains’ high elevations, hosting about 400 cedar trees that are over 1,000 years old. The Cedars are a symbol of the Lebanese identity and have been mentioned 103 times in the Old Testament.

Baalbeck Ancient City

Baalbeck is an ancient city east of the Litani River known for its well-preserved temples. The most famous of these is the Temple of Jupiter, one of the world’s most significant Roman temples.

Additional Info

Confirmation

Once you book this tour, you’ll get an email confirmation of your tour booking.

Accessibility

Unfortunately, wheelchairs cannot access the monuments included in this tour.

Participation

Most travelers can participate in this tour.

Tour Operators

This tour is operated by Beirut Daily Tours, a reputable tour operator in Lebanon.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. Guests must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.

Final Thoughts

The Small Group Tour Baalbeck Cedars and St Antoine Kozhaya Day Trip is an excellent opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of Beirut and explore the serene countryside. With the help of professional tour guides, you can learn about the significant religious and historical sites while enjoying a comfortable ride. To book your tour, follow this link. Happy touring!

Frequently Asked Questions About Beirut

If you are planning to visit Beirut, the capital city of Lebanon, there might be several questions in your mind. To help you plan your trip, we’ve created this FAQ guide which covers some of the most commonly asked questions regarding Beirut.

1. What is the Best Time to Visit Beirut?

Beirut can be visited any time of the year, but the best time to visit is from March to May or from September to November when the weather is pleasant and most festivals take place. Summers are very hot and humid and winters are mild and rainy.

2. What is the Currency Used in Beirut?

The currency used in Beirut is the Lebanese pound, denoted by LBP. You can exchange currency at a bank or at an exchange booth, and ATMs are widely available throughout the city.

3. What are the Must-See Places in Beirut?

Beirut is a city with a rich history and culture. Here are some must-see places in Beirut:

• Jeita Grotto – a network of underground caves and rivers
• National Museum of Beirut – displays the history of Lebanon
• Pigeon Rocks – a natural landmark on the Mediterranean coast
• Beirut Souks – a modern shopping center with restaurants and cafes
• Majidiyyeh Mosque – a beautiful mosque with Ottoman-style architecture
• Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral – a historic church with Byzantine architecture
• Place de l’Etoile – a central historic square in the city

4. What is the Best Mode of Transportation in Beirut?

The best modes of transportation in Beirut are:

• Taxis – there are two types of taxis in Beirut, shared taxis and private taxis
• Buses – a cheap way to travel around the city and surrounding areas
• Metro – Beirut’s metro system is still under construction but it is expected to open soon.
• Walking – Beirut is a walkable city, and walking around is a great way to explore.

5. What are the Best Festivals in Beirut?

Beirut is known for its festivals, some of the best festivals in Beirut are:

• Beirut International Film Festival – held in October
• Fête de la Musique – a music festival held in June
• Beirut Art Fair – an international art fair held in September
• Byblos International Festival – held in July and August
• Beirut Design Week – a design festival held in May and June

6. Are There Beaches in Beirut?

Yes, there are several beaches in Beirut. Some of the most popular beaches in Beirut are:

• Ramlet al-Baida Beach – one of the few public beaches in Beirut
• Zaitunay Bay – a marina and waterfront development with restaurants and cafes
• Riviera Beach Club – a private beach club with access to luxurious facilities
• Edde Sands Beach Club – a private beach club with a swimming pool, restaurants, and bars
• Lazy B Beach Club – a private beach club with a beach bar, live music, and DJs

7. What are the Local Foods that Must be Tried?

Lebanese cuisine is known for its delicious flavors and spices, some of the must-try local foods in Beirut are:

• Manakish – a Lebanese style pizza with thyme, cheese, and sometimes meat as toppings
• Kebabs – grilled meat skewers, often served with hummus and tabbouleh
• Tabbouleh – a dish made of finely chopped parsley, mint, tomatoes, onions, and bulgur wheat
• Hummus – a dip made of chickpeas, tahini paste, lemon juice, and garlic
• Baklava – a sweet pastry made of layers of filo pastry filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup

Book Your Tour Now

We hope this FAQ guide has been helpful in answering some of your questions about Beirut. Remember to plan your trip well in advance to make the most of your time in this beautiful city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Beirut

Beirut is the capital city of Lebanon and is known to be one of the most spectacular cities in the Middle East, thanks to its rich history, diverse culture, and breathtaking landscapes. If you are planning your trip to Beirut, you will have a lot of options on how to spend your time. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you plan your itinerary:

Step 1: Explore the Historical Sights

Beirut is a city that is steeped in history, and there is no shortage of historical landmarks and monuments to explore. Here are some of the must-visit sites:

1. The National Museum of Beirut

The National Museum of Beirut is home to some of the most important archaeological treasures in the Middle East. The museum showcases the history of Lebanon from prehistoric times to the present day. The entry fee is around 5,000 Lebanese pounds, and it is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. except for Mondays.

2. The Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque

The Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque is one of the most stunning mosques in the city. It was inaugurated in 2008 and is located in Downtown Beirut. The mosque is open to visitors, but you need to dress appropriately and remove your shoes before entering.

3. The Pigeon Rocks

The Pigeon Rocks are one of the most iconic natural landmarks in Beirut. These two rocks jut out of the Mediterranean Sea and can be seen from the Corniche. Sunset is the best time to visit them.

Step 2: Visit the Art Galleries and Museums

Beirut has a vibrant art and cultural scene, and there are many galleries and museums that showcase the city’s creativity. Here are a few must-visit places:

1. Sursock Museum

The Sursock Museum is a contemporary art museum that is located in a 19th-century mansion. The museum showcases modern and contemporary art from Lebanese and international artists. The entry fee is around 15,000 Lebanese pounds, and it is open from Tuesday to Sunday.

2. Beirut Art Center

The Beirut Art Center is devoted to contemporary art and is a space for art exhibitions, film screenings, and public programs. The admission fee is around 10,000 Lebanese pounds, and it is open from Tuesday to Sunday.

3. Robert Mouawad Private Museum

The Robert Mouawad Private Museum is a private museum that is located in Gemayzeh. It showcases a collection of antiques, jewelry, and precious stones. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, and the entry fee is around 15,000 Lebanese pounds.

Step 3: Enjoy the Lebanese Cuisine

Lebanese cuisine is known for its delicious and diverse flavors. Beirut has many restaurants that serve traditional and modern Lebanese dishes. Here are a few must-visit restaurants:

1. Al-Falamanki

Al-Falamanki is a traditional Lebanese restaurant that is located in Achrafieh. It serves a variety of Lebanese dishes, such as mezze, grilled meats, and desserts. The ambiance is cozy and charming, and the prices are reasonable.

2. Le Chef

Le Chef is a historical restaurant that has been open since the 1960s. It is located in Gemmayze and serves traditional Lebanese dishes that are made with fresh and high-quality ingredients. The prices are reasonable, and the ambiance is cozy and nostalgic.

3. Tawlet

Tawlet is a unique concept restaurant that showcases the diversity of Lebanese cuisine. The restaurant hosts different cooks from various regions in Lebanon, who prepare traditional dishes that are unique to their hometown. The prices are reasonable, and the ambiance is cozy and welcoming.

Step 4: Shopping in Beirut

Beirut has a diverse and lively shopping scene, with many boutiques and markets that offer unique and fashionable items. Here are a few must-visit places:

1. Souk el Tayeb

Souk el Tayeb is a farmers’ market that is located in Saifi Village. It offers fresh and organic produce, such as fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and bread. It is open on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

2. Beirut Souks

Beirut Souks is a modern shopping mall that is located in the heart of Beirut. It offers a wide range of international and local brands, such as Zara, H&M, and Mango. The mall is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

3. Hamra Street

Hamra Street is a lively and bustling street that is home to many shops, restaurants, and cafes. It offers a variety of items, such as clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs. The prices vary, and bargaining is common.

Step 5: Enjoy the Nightlife in Beirut

Beirut is known for its vibrant and dynamic nightlife. There are many bars, pubs, and clubs that offer a range of music, drinks, and ambiance. Here are a few must-visit places:

1. Music Hall

Music Hall is a unique concept club that offers live performances of various music genres, such as jazz, rock, and blues. The prices are high, but the ambiance is unforgettable.

2. Skybar

Skybar is a rooftop bar that offers stunning views of the city and the sea. It is located in Downtown Beirut and offers a variety of cocktails and drinks. The prices are high, but the ambiance is luxurious.

3. Pacifico

Pacifico is a salsa club that offers live salsa music and dance performances. It is located in Gemmayze and offers a variety of Latin-inspired drinks and dishes.

Book Your Tour Now

Beirut is a city that has many things to offer to tourists. From historical sights to art museums, from delicious cuisine to lively nightlife, there is something for everyone. By following this step-by-step guide, you will be able to plan your trip to Beirut and make the most out of your time in this stunning city.