Byblos

Byblos (Arabic: جبيل, Jbeil) is a coastal city ~40 km north of Beirut. One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world (7,000+ years), a major Phoenician city that gave its name to the Bible. UNESCO World Heritage site with ruins spanning Phoenician, Roman, Crusader, and Ottoman periods.

By Plane

Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY IATA) 50 km (45 min, taxi US$40–60).

By Car / Road

Coastal highway north (35–40 min). Buses from Charles Helou station.

Old city, souk, and port compact and walkable.

• Byblos Archaeological Site – Phoenician temples, Roman colonnade, Crusader castle. LL15,000.

• Byblos Castle – 12th-century Crusader castle.

• Byblos Old Souk – Stone arches, galleries, boutiques.

• Byblos Port – Picturesque fishing harbor.

• Byblos Wax Museum.

• Old city walk.

• Byblos International Festival – July–August.

• Port dining – Seafood with harbor views.

• Beach clubs.

• Art gallery hopping – The souk has many galleries.

• Seafood – Excellent portside restaurants.
• Lebanese meze – Traditional restaurants.
• Cafes – Charming old souk cafes.

Portside bars. Lebanese wine bars.

• Budget: Byblos Hostel, US$30–50/night
• Mid-range: Byblos Hotel, US$80–130/night
• Upscale: Boutique portside hotels, US$150–250/night

Handicrafts, ceramics, art from galleries.

• Batroun (20 km) – Ancient Phoenician city
• Jounieh (20 km) – Cable car to Harissa
• Jeita Grotto (25 km) – Caves
• Beirut (40 km) – Capital city