Lebanon

Arrive in Beirut, the lively capital of Lebanon. Upon arrival, meet your local guide and transfer to your hotel, Rotana Arjaan or similar. Settle in after your flight. Enjoy a welcome dinner at the hotel and an overnight stay.
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Begin your journey at the Beirut National Museum, where thousands of artifacts tell Lebanons long and varied history. Next, explore Downtown Beirut, a district where elegant Parisianstyle architecture meets sleek modern design. Walk through the Roman Baths, see the Parliament, Martyrs Square, AlOmari Mosque, and St. Georges Cathedral.Continue to the Corniche, Beiruts seaside promenade, and admire the striking Raouche Rock. The day ends at the AUB Archaeological Museum, the third oldest in the Middle East, showcasing artifacts from across the region. Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight. B, L, D

Drive into the Chouf Mountains to visit the picturesque village of Deir elQamar, once a capital during the Emirate era. Stroll past the Kayssarieh Notre Dame Church and the Fakheredine Mosque.Continue to Beiteddine Palace, Lebanons finest example of 1Uthcentury architecture, with its fountains, intricate tile work, and historical resonance. End the day with a walk through the Barouk Cedar Forest, breathing in the cool mountain air beneath Lebanons national symbol.Return to Beirut for dinner and overnight.B, L, D

Travel east into the Bekaa Valley. Begin in Baalbek, home to some of the largest and most awe inspiring Roman temples in the world, including the Temple of Jupiter and the Temple of Bacchus.Next, visit the Umayyad ruins of Anjar, showcasing early Islamic city planning with remnants of palaces, markets, and colonnaded streets. End the day at Chteau Ksara, Lebanons oldest winery, founded by Jesuit priests in 1857. Enjoy a tasting of local wines before returning to Beirut for dinner and overnight.B, L, D

Depart Beirut for the magnificent Jeita Grotto, a natural wonder of interconnected limestone caves. Take a boat ride through the lower caverns and walk through the aweinspiring upper galleries.Continue to Bkerke, the seat of the Maronite Patriarchate, and meet a church representative for a cultural and historical introduction. Ascend to Harissa, to visit the statue of Our Lady of Lebanon, overlooking the Bay of Jounieh. After lunch, head north to the ancient coastal city of Byblos. Check in at Byblos Sur Mer Hotel or similar for dinner and overnight.B, L, D

Explore Byblos, considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Wander through its Phoenician ruins, Crusader Castle, and atmospheric old souk.In the afternoon, head to Tripoli, Lebanons vibrant northern capital. Visit the Citadel of Raymond de SaintGilles, the Great Mosque, local churches, and bustling souks. Experience the contrast of medieval architecture and daily life in one of Lebanons most culturally rich cities. Return to Byblos for dinner and overnight.B, L, D

Journey through Lebanons mountain roads to the Cedars of God, a UNESCOlisted forest of ancient, towering cedar treessacred symbols of Lebanon and revered in antiquity.Continue to Bcharre, birthplace of poet and artist Khalil Gibran. Visit the Gibran Museum, located in a monastery carved into the rock face, where his paintings, writings, and personal belongings are displayed. Return to Beirut for overnight at the hotel.B, L, D

After breakfast, travel south to Sidon, known for its Sea Castle, Soap Museum, and Khan el Franj, each echoing the citys medieval and Ottoman past. Stroll the old souks and coastal lanes. Continue to Tyre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Roman Hippodrome, Baths, and the Old Port, once a major Phoenician trading hub. Enjoy a coastal lunch, walk along the corniche, and take in views of the Mediterranean Sea. Return to Beirut for a final dinner and overnight.B, L, D

Transfer to the airport for your international flight home, or continue on to your next adventure in Syria. B