10 Days Tour Package To Land of The Phoenicians

This morning you'll start your day by venturing north towards the Mediterranean Sea to reach Byblos, the oldest continuously inhabited city and the birthplace of the alphabet. A charming and historic port city, Byblos is a fascinating place where modern life goes hand in hand with century-old traditions. There, you'll visit Byblos Castle and its Roman site, the Church of St. John, and of course, wander the charming streets and the old souk.

Continue north along the coast towards the charming seaside town of Batroun. Narrow cobblestone streets and traditional Ottoman houses make this town perfect for long strolls through the city's historic sites and perfect for enjoying the warm weather. Let the smell of fresh fruits and vegetables lead you through the old Batroun souks, discover the charming ruins of the Phoenician port at the Fishermen's Harbor and enjoy the rhythm of the city for a perfect coastal experience. At the end of your visit, you will return to Byblos to spend the night in Byblos. (B)

Overnight at Ahiram Hotel or similar

Breakfast will be served at your hotel and this morning you'll head by car towards Tripoli, known as the capital of the north. It is a city where modern and medieval blend seamlessly into a lively and hospitable metropolis. Visit some historical landmarks such as the Crusader Citadel, the Grand Mosque, and the souks. Continue your day through some of Lebanon's most beautiful mountainous landscapes in the Bsharre region. You'll gain altitude and enjoy stunning views of the peaks and valleys before reaching the Cedars of Lebanon. There, you'll enjoy an easy stroll through the cedar forest to admire trees that are more than 1,000 years old.

You will then return to Wadi Qadisha, one of the deepest and most beautiful valleys in Lebanon. Filled with caves and rock shelters that have been inhabited since the third millennium BC, the valley is dotted with cave churches, silos, and monasteries cut out of the rock; a real feast for the eyes! If time permits, you will visit Bsharre, an idyllic mountain village and UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its traditional red-roofed houses, Bsharre is the main town in the Qadisha Valley and home to the Gibran Khalil Museum - the home of the world-famous writer, poet and painter). Your stay this evening will be at an active monastery. Located in the center of the valley - the view is magnificent, peaceful and a great location to explore on foot. (B,D)

Overnight in Kadisha in a monastery or similar

You'll leave this stunning part of Lebanon to discover another natural wonder, the Jeita Grotto. Located 18 kilometers northeast of Beirut and one of the greatest natural wonders of the Middle East - Jeita Grotto is a magnificent cave system that stretches nine kilometers into the Lebanese mountains. Beautifully orchestrated with lights reflecting magnificent stalactites and stalagmites on the transparent water, the extraordinary cave decor is mesmerizing. The caves are divided into two parts, the upper part which can be explored on foot and the lower part which is submerged by paddle boat, making it an exceptional discovery. 

You will then head to Mitin, one of the oldest villages in Lebanon. You will discover the historic 500-square-meter town square (Le Medan) that was once surrounded by the Emir's palaces. Learn about its historical, cultural and architectural heritage and let the scent of pine trees guide you through this idyllic village. Locals may invite you to sit with them and drink rose or berry water. This is Lebanese hospitality. (B)

Overnight at Bois de Boulogne Hotel or similar

After a good night's sleep and breakfast, it's time to hit the road towards the Bekaa Valley. Destination Baalbek. These Roman remains are perhaps the most beautiful archaeological site in the country. These temples dominated the Bekaa Valley with their gigantic proportions. Today, the temple ruins of Baalbek are among the wonders of the ancient world. The Baalbek Acropolis is one of the largest temples in the world!

After your visit, you'll head to Ksara Castle, one of Lebanon's oldest wineries. Take a tour of the 2km of historic Roman cellars and vineyards and end with a wine tasting activity to sample the facility's finest wines. (B,D)

Overnight at Inhabitant Hotel or similar

Distance and travel time: (approx. 161 km) 3 hours 40 minutes.

After breakfast, you will arrive at the entrance of the Baroque Nature Reserve to start your hike in the reserve. The trail includes a number of impressive landmarks such as the observation point and the hill lake. You can hike this trail for 3 to 4 hours and visit the reforestation sites. 

After lunch, you will head to Beiteddine Palace. Built in 1788, the palace was constructed to symbolize the power and glory of Prince Bashir, the ruler of Lebanon in the first half of the 19th century. The palace complex sits majestically on a hill surrounded by terraced gardens and orchards and is the best example of 19th-century Lebanese architecture. Your stay for the next two nights is a homestay experience. Salim will host you in his home with his mother who will prepare traditional dishes for you. (B,D)

Overnight in a guesthouse or similar

Distance and trekking time: (approx. 43 km) 1 hour 35 minutes
Walking time: Baroque Nature Reserve - 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy

After a short transfer, you will reach Niha where you will start your hike to Jezzine. This hike is fairly easy and will take you to the castle of Niha and the magnificent Jezzine waterfall. You'll return to the road but this time south until you reach the coastal city of Sidon, a charming and picturesque part of Lebanon just 45 kilometers south of Beirut. Winding alleys, typical old souks, mosaics and Ottoman ruins, sweet smells from fruit stalls, and hidden treasures scattered everywhere, make Saida a truly special place. On this visit, you will discover the once-thriving Phoenician port city and its Crusader naval fortress and also stop at the temples of Khan al-Farang and Ashmoun. A short transfer to Tyre for an overnight stay. (B)

Overnight at Fanar Hotel or similar

If you didn't get a chance to explore Tyre yesterday, make sure to do so today. This UNESCO World Heritage city is worth a visit not only for its charming atmosphere, but also for the history that oozes from the various archaeological sites scattered throughout the city including the cemetery, Roman columns, and of course the Hippodrome, one of the largest hippodromes of the Roman era. After this fascinating visit, you will return to Beirut to conclude your tour. 

Discover the Armenian neighborhoods; this charming and unparalleled place will allow you to do some great last-minute shopping amidst crowded buildings and thousands of electric cables filling the sky above. (B)

Overnight at Gems Hotel or similar

This morning, embark on the original concept of "Cities and People", where you will share the experience of the city with a Beiruti. This passionate Beiruti will allow you to discover the capital unusually and creatively. This morning can be designed around different themes such as food - lifestyle - artistic and political dynamics. We highly suggest visiting the Beirut National Museum to discover the wonders of antiquity. Hundreds of beautifully curated artifacts from prehistoric times to the Mamluk era will take you on a fascinating journey through time. (B, L)

Overnight at Al Jawaher Hotel or similar

Distance and travel time: (8.5 km approx.) 35 minutes
Walking time: Approximately 3 hours
Difficulty Easy street walking

Today is yours at leisure until it's time to transfer to the airport for your next flight. (B)

Distance and travel time: (10.5 km approx.) 25 minutes