Byblos (Jbeil)
Byblos, Lebanon
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Byblos (Jbeil) has been home to a wealth of civilizations over the last 8,000 years. A historic harbor, a Crusader castle, an atmospheric medieval center, and a fascinating archaeological site add heritage charm. During summer, there’s a vibrant party scene as well as outstanding seafood eateries.
The Basics
There’s ample accommodation in Byblos, and some travelers choose to spend a night or two here, enjoying the nightlife and the beach clubs as well as the sights. Alternatively, visit as a day trip from Beirut. Byblos tours typically cover the Crusader castle, the pretty harbor, the old town, and the archaeological site, with ruins from Phoenician, Greek, and Roman eras. Many Byblos day trips include a stop at the magical Jeita Grotto cave system and/or the Shrine of Our Lady at Harissa.
Things to Know Before You Go
Byblos is a must for history buffs, Instagrammers, photographers, and party people.
Many Byblos beaches are private, with an entrance charge. Anything goes in fashion terms, from bikinis to burkinis, although topless bathing is a no-no.
Cobbled streets, steps, and steep inclines make Byblos a challenging destination for travelers who use wheelchairs.
How to Get There
Byblos sits on the Mediterranean coast about 22 miles (36 kilometers) north of Beirut. Buses run regularly from the Charles Helou bus station in Beirut, with minibuses running from the Dowra hub as well as the Cola hub if you are traveling from southern Lebanon. Lebanon’s crazy traffic means driving is not for the faint-hearted.
When to Get There
Byblos is a very popular summer getaway from Beirut, which means the city can get super busy on weekends, beginning on Friday night. While the weekend scene is perfect for party lovers, historic monuments are best visited during the week. Weather in winter (roughly December through February) can be surprisingly cool and rainy.
The Byblos Archaeological Site
A stroll through the waterfront Byblos archaeological site reveals the many different civilizations that have inhabited this ancient city. The Temple of Baalat Gebal dates back to the time of the Giza pyramids, while prehistoric remnants are even older, and Roman remains add color. The site is spectacularly beautiful in spring when the wildflowers are in bloom.
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