19-Day Eastern Middle East Southern Coastal Route: Lebanon, Jordan & Egypt in April
Embark on an epic 19-day journey through the historic and sun-drenched coastal regions of the Eastern Middle East. This route is designed for the hardcore budget backpacker, focusing on the 'Mediterranean vibe' of Lebanon and the 'Tropical/Red Sea' allure of Jordan and Egypt. In April, the region is in full bloom, offering pleasant temperatures that make walking through ancient ruins and coastal promenades a delight without the searing summer heat.
By sticking to legendary street food stalls, utilizing cross-border ferries and buses, and staying in highly-rated hostels, you can navigate this diverse region for under $18 a day. From the cedar-scented mountains of Lebanon to the coral-rich waters of Dahab, this itinerary balances cultural immersion with deep relaxation.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Beirut, Lebanon - Arrival & Coastal Intro
Arrival at Rafic Hariri Airport
Touch down in the Paris of the Middle East. Take the official airport taxi or a pre-arranged shuttle to your hostel in Gemmayzeh.
Raouche Rocks (Pigeon Rocks)
Walk the Corniche, a seaside promenade, to see these iconic natural rock formations for free. It is the perfect spot for photos.
Zaitunay Bay
Stroll through the modern marina area to see the contrast between old and new Beirut while enjoying the Mediterranean breeze.
Street Food Dinner in Mar Mikhael
Grab a manakish (thyme flatbread) for less than $2 at a local bakery and soak in the evening atmosphere.
Day 2: Beirut, Lebanon - History & Street Culture
Beirut Heritage Trail
Follow the free self-guided walking tour through Downtown Beirut, visiting Roman ruins and the Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque.
Lunch at Barbar
Eat at this legendary local institution. Their falafel and shawarma sandwiches are world-famous and incredibly cheap.
Sursock Museum
Visit this contemporary art museum housed in a stunning 19th-century villa. Admission is free (donations welcome).
Hamra Street Stroll
Experience the intellectual heart of Beirut, home to bookstores, cafes, and vibrant street life.
Day 3: Byblos, Lebanon - Ancient Mediterranean Port
Bus to Jbeil (Byblos)
Catch a cheap local 'Connexion' bus from Beirut. Byblos is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.
Byblos Old Souk
Wander through the cobblestone streets of the medieval souk. It's free to browse the unique fossils and crafts.
The Ancient Harbor
Sit by the water and watch the fishing boats. The harbor provides a perfect Mediterranean tropical vibe with crystal clear water.
Byblos Public Beach
Enjoy a free sunset swim at the pebble beach before catching the bus back to Beirut.
Day 4: Batroun, Lebanon - Coastal Charm & Lemonade
Batroun Day Trip
Take a local bus further north to Batroun, a coastal town known for its Phoenician wall and relaxed atmosphere.
Famous Batroun Lemonade
You cannot visit without trying the local lemonade at Hilmi’s. It’s a refreshing and affordable tradition.
The Phoenician Wall
Walk along the coast to see the massive sea wall built by the Phoenicians to protect the city from waves.
Makaad El Mir
A natural rock formation overlooking the sea, perfect for a budget picnic dinner as the sun sets.
Day 5: Beirut to Amman (Lebanon/Jordan) - The Transit
Fly to Amman
Since land borders are restricted, a short budget flight is the most logical route. Middle East Airlines or Royal Jordanian offer quick hops.
Airport Shuttle to Downtown
Take the Sariyah Express bus from Queen Alia Airport to North Bus Station, then a local taxi to Downtown Amman.
Roman Nymphaeum
Explore this free archaeological site in the heart of the city, once a grand public fountain.
Dinner at Hashem
The most famous falafel shop in Jordan. It's outdoor, chaotic, and incredibly cheap (less than $5 for a full feast).
Day 6: Amman, Jordan - Citadel & Golden Views
Amman Citadel (Jabal al-Qal'a)
Walk up the hill for a small fee (or free with Jordan Pass) to see the Temple of Hercules and a 360-degree view of Amman.
Habibah Sweets
Join the queue for Knafeh (sweet cheese pastry). It’s the ultimate budget dessert at under $2.
Roman Theatre
Explore the remarkably preserved 6,000-seat theater built into the hillside.
Rainbow Street
Window shop and people-watch on this trendy street as the evening lights come on.
Day 7: Amman to Dead Sea - Salty Floating
Shared Taxi to Dead Sea
Negotiate a shared taxi or take a JETT bus to the lowest point on earth. Use a public beach to keep costs low.
Float and Mud Bath
Experience the unique sensation of floating in the hyper-saline water. Apply the mineral-rich mud for a free spa treatment.
Dead Sea Panorama
If you have a driver, stop at the Panorama complex for stunning views of the sea and the West Bank.
Return to Amman
Rest up for the long journey south tomorrow.
Day 8: Petra, Jordan - The Rose City
Early Bus to Wadi Musa
Take the 6:30 AM JETT bus from Amman to reach Petra by mid-morning.
The Siq & The Treasury
Walk through the narrow canyon (The Siq) until the iconic Treasury (Al-Khazneh) reveals itself.
The Monastery (Ad Deir)
Hike the 800 steps to the Monastery for a less crowded but equally impressive experience.
High Place of Sacrifice
Take the back trails for spectacular views of the entire valley as the sun sets.
Day 9: Wadi Rum, Jordan - Starry Nights
Bus to Wadi Rum
Catch the morning shuttle bus from Wadi Musa to the Wadi Rum Visitor Centre.
Budget Jeep Tour
Join a group jeep tour to see Lawrence’s Spring, sand dunes, and rock bridges.
Camel Sunset Trek
A short camel ride at sunset is the quintessential desert experience.
Bedouin Dinner & Stargazing
Enjoy Zarb (meat and veg cooked underground) and sleep under one of the clearest skies in the world.
Day 10: Aqaba, Jordan - Red Sea Gateway
Transfer to Aqaba
Take a shared taxi from Wadi Rum to the coastal city of Aqaba.
Aqaba South Beach
Head south of the city to the public beaches where the coral reefs are accessible just meters from the shore for free.
Snorkeling the Japanese Garden
Rent a mask for $3 and explore the vibrant underwater world of the Red Sea.
Fresh Fish Dinner
Aqaba is known for Sayadieh (spiced fish and rice). Find a local hole-in-the-wall for an affordable feast.
Day 11: Aqaba to Dahab (Jordan/Egypt) - Cross-Border Ferry
AB Maritime Ferry
Take the ferry from Aqaba to Nuweiba, Egypt. This is a classic backpacker route across the Red Sea.
Bus to Dahab
From Nuweiba, take a local microbus south to the bohemian town of Dahab.
Dahab Promenade
Walk the seaside boardwalk lined with cushions, cats, and colorful cafes.
Budget Koshary Dinner
Find a local Koshary shop for Egypt's national dish—a mix of pasta, rice, and lentils for about $1.
Day 12: Dahab, Egypt - Bohemian Vibes
Lighthouse Reef
The easiest spot for free snorkeling in Dahab. Just walk in and see the fish.
Lunch at King Chicken
A cult favorite for backpackers. Get a massive half-chicken meal with rice and salad for very little.
Laguna Beach
Walk to the sandy spit at the south end of town for a relaxing afternoon swim.
Bedouin Tea by the Sea
Many cafes allow you to lounge on floor cushions for hours if you buy a simple tea.
Day 13: Dahab, Egypt - Blue Hole Snorkeling
Jeep/Taxi to Blue Hole
Join other backpackers at the 'bridge' to share a taxi to this world-famous sinkhole.
Snorkeling the Canyon
Explore the stunning coral walls of the Blue Hole. Stay within the buoyed areas for safety.
Hike to Abu Galum
Take the 1-hour coastal trek from the Blue Hole to the remote Bedouin settlement of Abu Galum.
Return to Dahab
Share a ride back to town and enjoy a budget falafel wrap.
Day 14: Dahab, Egypt - Mountain Sunset
Free Morning
Sleep in, catch up on laundry, or write in your travel journal at a seaside cafe.
Wadi Gnai Hike
Walk into the desert mountains behind Dahab to find small oases and palm groves.
Sunset at Mount Sinai Viewpoint
Watch the mountains turn purple and orange as the sun dips below the Sinai peaks.
Friday Market (if applicable)
If it’s Friday, visit the community market for homemade international food and crafts.
Day 15: Dahab to Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt
Go Bus to Sharm
Take the comfortable and cheap Go Bus for the 1.5-hour journey to Sharm El Sheikh.
Check-in at Hadaba
Stay in the Hadaba area rather than Naama Bay to find cheaper hostels and local eats.
Al Sahaba Mosque
Visit this architecturally stunning mosque in the Old Market area. It's free to view from the outside.
Old Market Street Food
Eat like a local at the Old Market. Look for grilled corn on the cob and fresh fruit juices.
Day 16: Sharm El Sheikh - Coral Exploration
Ras Mohamed National Park
Join a budget group boat tour to Egypt's most famous marine park. The biodiversity here is world-class.
Shark Observatory
Look out over the cliffs for a panoramic view of the Red Sea meeting the Gulf of Aqaba.
Farsha Mountain Lounge
Visit this legendary cliffside cafe. While drinks aren't the cheapest, the vibe and sunset view are worth one budget-friendly tea.
Overnight Bus to Cairo
Save on a night's accommodation by taking the midnight Go Bus to Cairo.
Day 17: Sharm El Sheikh to Cairo, Egypt
Arrival in Cairo
Drop your bags at a hostel in Downtown Cairo (Talaat Harb area).
The Egyptian Museum
Visit the original museum in Tahrir Square to see the treasures of Tutankhamun (small entry fee).
Al-Azhar Park
A beautiful green space in the middle of chaotic Cairo. Great for a cheap lunch with a view of the Citadel.
Khan el-Khalili Souk
Lose yourself in the labyrinthine alleys of Cairo’s oldest market. Drinking tea at El Fishawy is a must.
Day 18: Cairo, Egypt - Pyramids & Sphinx
Giza Plateau
Take the Metro to Giza and then a local bus/Uber to the Pyramids to avoid expensive tours.
The Great Sphinx
Visit the Sphinx after the pyramids. Pro tip: The view from the Pizza Hut balcony across the street is free and iconic.
Coptic Cairo
Visit the Hanging Church and the cavern church where the Holy Family is said to have stayed. Entry is free.
Feluca Ride on the Nile
Negotiate a 1-hour sunset sail on a traditional wooden boat. If you share with other travelers, it’s very cheap.
Day 19: Alexandria, Egypt - Mediterranean Finale
Train to Alexandria
Take the 'Special' or 'Spanish' train from Ramses Station for a scenic 2.5-hour ride to the Mediterranean coast.
Bibliotheca Alexandrina
Visit the modern tribute to the ancient library. The architecture alone is worth the trip.
Citadel of Qaitbay
Walk the Corniche to this 15th-century fortress built on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria.
Final Seafood Feast
Alexandria is the king of seafood. Find a local market stall for fresh grilled fish to end your 19-day epic journey.
Best Time to Visit Middle East
April is arguably the best month to visit Lebanon, Jordan, and Egypt. During this spring window, the 'bloom' is in full effect—Lebanon's valleys are lush and green, Jordan's desert flowers are out, and Egypt's heat is still manageable (average 22-26°C). You avoid the freezing winter nights of the desert and the oppressive 40°C+ heat of the summer months. It is also the perfect time for the 'Coastal Route' as the Mediterranean and Red Sea temperatures become comfortable for swimming.
Visas & Border Crossings
For this route, most Western travelers can obtain a Visa on Arrival in Lebanon (often free for one month). For Jordan, it is highly recommended to purchase the 'Jordan Pass' online before arrival; it waives the visa fee and includes entry to Petra. Crossing from Jordan to Egypt via the Aqaba-Nuweiba ferry is a standard route; however, ensure you check the current status of the Sinai 'Entry-Only' visa versus the full Egypt tourist visa depending on your Cairo plans. Always keep $25 USD in crisp bills for the Egyptian visa fee at the port or airport.
Getting Around Middle East
Budget travel in the Eastern Middle East relies on a mix of local 'Service' taxis (shared minivans) in Lebanon and Jordan, and the excellent 'Go Bus' network in Egypt. Between countries where land borders are closed (like Lebanon to Jordan), low-cost carriers like FlyDubai or regional hops on Royal Jordanian are necessary. In Egypt, the railway system between Cairo and Alexandria is efficient and very affordable for backpackers. For short distances in cities, Uber is widely available and safer than negotiating with unmetered street taxis.
