Lebanon - important information about the country

Lebanon is a country with a rich history, diverse cultural heritage and spectacular natural landscapes. The traditions of East and West intersect here, manifested in architecture, cuisine and daily life. Lebanon holds an important place in history due to the ancient civilizations that have left a deep mark on its cultural development.

Beirut, the capital of Lebanon, is a vibrant metropolis with many historic and modern neighborhoods offering visitors many interesting places to visit and things to do. Lovers of history and archaeology will certainly be attracted to Baalbek, an ancient city with impressive Roman temples. Byblos, one of the oldest cities in the world, will fascinate visitors with its ancient streets and the atmosphere of thousands of years of history.

Lebanon is well known for its archaeological sites, which reflect its rich past, and its natural attractions, such as the Lebanese Mountains and the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. The country is renowned for its gastronomic traditions, the diversity of which reflects the influence of many cultures.

Today, Lebanon continues to attract the attention of travelers due to its cultural identity and unique blend of ancient traditions and modernity.

Foreign nationals from many countries, including Germany and other EU states, now have access to a visa on arrival. This is very convenient for those who are planning a tourist trip and vacation in Lebanon.

Those who are going to visit the country for business, study or work in Lebanon may need to apply for a Visa.

On our website, you can learn more about the specifics of Lebanon visa regime, as well as get a closer look at the culture and key features of this amazing country before you set off on your travels.

The official currency of Lebanon is the Lebanese pound (LBP), also known as the lira. US dollars are widely accepted in major cities, especially in tourist areas, and prices may be quoted in both pounds and dollars. Cash is often used for payment, but hotels, restaurants and shopping centers accept international bank cards such as Visa and MasterCard.

Currency can be exchanged at banks, exchange offices and hotels, with favorable rates usually offered at specialized exchange offices. ATMs are available in major cities, but it is important to check withdrawal fees. When traveling to remote areas, it is better to have cash, as cards may not be accepted there.

Lebanon has a varied climate due to its geographical position and mountainous terrain. The country's Mediterranean coastline has a typical Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild, rainy winters. Summer temperatures on the coast can reach +30°C or higher, especially in July and August, when humidity also increases. The winter months, from December to February, are cooler, with temperatures around +10-15°C and frequent rain.

In the mountainous areas, the climate differs considerably. It is cooler in summer and snow falls in winter, making Lebanon a popular destination for winter sports such as ski vacations. The interior of the country, particularly the Bekaa Valley, has a continental climate with drier and hotter summers and colder winters.

The best time to travel to Lebanon depends on the purpose of the trip. Spring (April and May) and fall (September and October) are considered the most comfortable times to visit, as temperatures are moderate and the weather is stable. The summer months are great for beach vacations, while in winter you can enjoy the ski resorts.

Lebanon is a country where cultural characteristics are formed at the intersection of Eastern and Western traditions. Lebanese society is multi-confessional, with representatives of different religious groups, such as Muslims (Shia, Sunni and Druze), Christians (Maronite, Orthodox and Catholic) and Armenians. This places an important imprint on the norms of behavior and cultural practices that should be taken into account when visiting the country.

Respect for religious traditions is an important aspect in Lebanon. Depending on the region or community, different norms of behavior may be adopted, especially regarding dress. In tourist areas and large cities such as Beirut, wearing modern clothing is not surprising, but in more conservative areas it is recommended to dress more modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Interactions with locals are usually accompanied by warmth and hospitality. Family and community ties play an important role in Lebanese culture, and invitations to visit are a common expression of friendliness. That said, it is important to respect personal space and avoid excessive questions on the topic of politics and religion, which can be sensitive to many.

In addition, traditional gestures of courtesy, such as thanking people for their hospitality or showing respect for their elders, are encouraged in Lebanon. It is important to remember that locals are proud of their cultural heritage, and showing interest in their customs can evoke positive emotions and strengthen friendships.

The health care system in Lebanon consists of public and private health care facilities, with the majority of health care services provided by the private sector. The country has modern clinics and hospitals, many of which offer quality treatment using advanced technologies. Doctors in Lebanon are often trained abroad, so the level of medical care here is high, especially in major cities such as Beirut.

Tourists visiting Lebanon can use the services of private hospitals, but it is important to keep in mind that treatment is paid for locally and can be expensive. Therefore, it is advisable to purchase medical insurance before traveling to cover possible treatment costs.

Pharmacies in Lebanon are well-equipped and most medicines can be purchased without a prescription, but it is worth taking the necessary medication with you if you have chronic conditions. In case of emergencies, emergency services are available and respond quickly to calls.

The general state of health care in Lebanon can vary from region to region, so access to medical care may be limited in remote areas. In major cities, however, visitors to the country can expect quality and prompt medical care.

Lebanese cuisine is a true gastronomic adventure, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region. It is based on the use of aromatic spices and a variety of cooking methods that make Lebanese dishes unique and full of flavor.

One of the most famous Lebanese traditions is a set of small meze appetizers served before the main courses. It includes dishes such as hummus (chickpea paste with tahini), baba ghanoush (eggplant paste), tabouleh (parsley, tomato and bulgur salad) and fattoush (salad with toasted pieces of flatbread).

Popular main dishes include kebab, kebbeh (bulgur balls stuffed with meat) and shawarma. Lebanese cuisine is rich in both meat and vegetarian dishes, allowing everyone to find something to their liking. Much attention is paid to natural products: herbs, vegetables, olive oil and lemon juice are an integral part of every dish.

Among sweets you should try baklava - puff pastry with nuts and honey, as well as maamul - cookies with dates or nut filling. Tea and coffee are an obligatory part of any meal, and Lebanese coffee is distinguished by its strength and rich flavor.

Drinks also occupy an important place in the culture. Among alcoholic beverages we can single out arak - aniseed vodka, which is traditionally served with water and ice.

Lebanese cuisine is not just food, it is part of a culture that brings people together around a table and leaves a lasting impression on all who taste it.

Lebanon is a unique country that appeals to families with children and solo travelers alike with its cultural diversity, history and natural beauty.

Families should consider coastal towns such as Junia and Byblos. Here you can enjoy a relaxing vacation on the beach, as well as visit historical sites suitable for children, such as the ancient Phoenician port and archaeological museum.

For a more active vacation, you can head to the mountains, where hiking trails of varying difficulty are available. During the winter season, Lebanon's ski resorts become a center of attraction for family travelers, providing ample recreational opportunities.

For solo travelers looking to explore, Lebanon offers a wealth of choices. The capital, Beirut, offers a vibrant city life, trendy cafes, museums, and lively markets. Art lovers can enjoy modern galleries, while those interested in history can head to the ruins of Baalbek and visit ancient temples.

Lebanon offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all preferences and budgets. For family travelers, hotels and resorts with family rooms, pools and playgrounds are popular, especially in coastal cities. Single travelers can choose small boutique hotels in downtown Beirut or self-catering apartments. There are also many guesthouses in the country, offering a cozy atmosphere and a chance to get a closer look at the local culture.

A trip to Lebanon can be complemented by gastronomic discoveries. Lebanese cuisine is a true culinary journey. Restaurants and street eateries offer traditional dishes such as hummus, tabbouleh and kebabs.

For families and individual travelers alike, Lebanon will be a destination that will leave many pleasant impressions thanks to its culture, landscapes and the hospitality of the locals.

Shopping in Lebanon is a combination of tradition and modernity. For souvenirs and unique products, you should go to the traditional markets (sukkahs) located in Beirut, Tripoli and Byblos. Here you can find a variety of handmade products: carved wooden boxes, carpets, copperware and ceramics. Olive wood products are especially popular, as well as traditional jewelry with Arabic calligraphy.

A souvenir reflecting Lebanon's culinary traditions can be local coffee, aromatic spices or sweets such as baklava and maamoul. On the main streets of Beirut and in major shopping centers you can find boutiques of local designers, where stylish clothes and accessories with oriental flavor are presented. Lebanon is also famous for jewelry - gold and silver ornaments will become a memorable gift about the trip.

For lovers of modern shopping, Lebanon offers many large shopping centers, such as ABC Mall and Beirut Souks in the capital. There are international brands, boutiques of local designers, as well as various restaurants and entertainment areas. Stores offer a wide range of clothing, accessories, cosmetics and electronics. There are also shopping malls in the suburbs and larger cities where you can find everything you need for a comfortable shopping experience.