16-Day Ultimate Family Epic Journey Through Lebanon
Lebanon is a hidden gem for families seeking an epic journey that balances cultural immersion with Mediterranean relaxation. This 16-day itinerary is designed with families in mind, focusing on shorter travel distances between regions, kid-friendly landmarks, and accessible paths for strollers in the major cities. From the vibrant streets of Beirut to the ancient stones of Byblos, your family will discover a land where history is alive and hospitality is a way of life.
We have carefully paced this journey to avoid burnout, ensuring plenty of time for leisurely breakfasts and afternoon breaks. While Lebanon's terrain can be rugged, we highlight the most accessible sites and provide tips on the best ways to navigate the country comfortably with children, including private transport options and the best times to visit popular attractions to avoid crowds.
Day 1: Arrival & Coastal Walks in Beirut
Arrival at Rafic Hariri International Airport
Complete your entry formalities and head to your hotel in a pre-booked private transfer for maximum comfort.
Lunch at Zaitunay Bay
Enjoy a family-friendly lunch at the marina. The boardwalk is completely flat and stroller-friendly with great sea views.
Raouche Rocks (Pigeon Rocks)
Take a gentle stroll along the Corniche to see these iconic limestone formations. Kids will love the boat rides into the caves if the sea is calm.
Dinner in Hamra
Explore the bustling Hamra Street, filled with cafes and bookstores, offering a vibrant introduction to Beirut's local life.
Day 2: Beirut - History & Heritage
National Museum of Beirut
A manageable museum for children, showcasing the Phoenician history of the region. The ground floor is easily accessible.
Sursock Museum
Visit this stunning villa-turned-museum in the Achrafieh district. The surrounding gardens offer a quiet space for children to move around.
Martyrs' Square and Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque
Explore the heart of Downtown Beirut. The mosque is architecturally stunning and welcoming to respectful visitors.
Souks de Beyrouth
A modern shopping district with wide, paved walkways. It’s perfect for a safe evening walk and contains many kid-friendly dining options.
Day 3: Beirut - Neighborhood Exploration
Sanayeh Garden (Rene Moawad Garden)
Spend a relaxed morning in one of Beirut's largest public parks. It features playgrounds and plenty of shade.
Armenian Quarter (Bourj Hammoud)
Experience the unique culture and delicious street food of the Armenian community. Great for picking up unique handicrafts.
Gemmayzeh Street Walk
Walk through this historic street known for its colorful buildings and creative vibe. Note: many stairs connect to higher streets, so stick to the main road with strollers.
Authentic Lebanese Mezza Dinner
Introduce the kids to small plates like hummus and fatayer in a traditional family-run restaurant.
Day 4: Beirut - Discovery & Relaxation
American University of Beirut (AUB) Campus
The campus acts as a botanical garden and bird sanctuary, offering a peaceful, safe environment for a morning walk.
KidzMondo Beirut
If the kids need a dedicated play day, this indoor edutainment center in the Beirut Waterfront is highly rated.
Mim Museum (Mineral Museum)
Located on the USJ campus, this museum displays over 2,000 minerals. The glowing displays are mesmerizing for children.
Sunset at the Manara Lighthouse
Watch the sunset by the sea near the old lighthouse for a classic Beirut evening experience.
Day 5: Jeita & Harissa - Caves & Heights
Jeita Grotto
Marvel at the incredible stalactites and stalagmites. The lower cave involves a short, magical boat ride that kids will never forget.
Teleferique (Cable Car) to Harissa
Take the cable car from Jounieh up to the Our Lady of Lebanon statue. The views of the bay are spectacular.
Harissa Sanctuary Grounds
Explore the peaceful grounds at the top of the mountain. There is plenty of space for kids to walk around safely.
Dinner in Jounieh
Head back down for dinner in the old souk area of Jounieh by the sea.
Day 6: Byblos - The Ancient Port
Byblos Castle (Citadel)
Explore this Crusader castle. While the upper levels are steep, the grounds and lower excavations are fascinating for older kids.
Old Souk of Byblos
Walk through the pedestrian-only cobblestone streets. It’s a great place to buy fossils and traditional crafts.
Byblos Fossil Museum
A small but incredible museum where kids can see and even buy real 100-million-year-old fish fossils found in the local mountains.
Byblos Fishing Harbor
Watch the fishing boats come in and enjoy a seafood dinner right on the water's edge.
Day 7: Byblos - Beaches & Relaxation
Byblos Public Beach
Enjoy a relaxed morning by the Mediterranean. The water is generally shallow and clear, making it safe for children.
Lunch at a Beach Club
Many beach clubs offer pools and changing facilities which are convenient for families with young children.
St. John-Marc Church
Visit this beautiful medieval church with its unique open-air baptistery and peaceful garden area.
Evening Gelato in the Souk
Wrap up the day with some local ice cream while wandering the illuminated ancient streets.
Day 8: Batroun - Lemonade & Sea Walls
Phoenician Wall
See the ancient sea wall that protected the city for millennia. The walk along the coast is flat and scenic.
Batroun Lemonade Tasting
Batroun is famous for its fresh lemonade. Stop at Hilmi's for a refreshing treat in a kid-friendly setting.
Mseilha Fort
A short drive from Batroun, this fort sits on a limestone rock. The path leading to it is paved and easy for a family walk.
Exploring the Old Churches
Batroun has many charming small churches and chapels clustered in the old town that are easy to visit on foot.
Day 9: Tripoli - Northern Grandeur
Citadel of Raymond de Saint-Gilles
This massive fortress offers great views over the city. The large courtyards are fun for kids to explore.
Tripoli Souks
Experience the most authentic markets in Lebanon. From the soap souk to the copper souk, it's a sensory delight.
Taynal Mosque
Visit one of the finest examples of Mamluk architecture in the city, known for its beautiful inner portals.
Sweet Treat at Hallab 1881
Tripoli is the capital of sweets. A visit to the famous Hallab palace for baklava is a must for the whole family.
Day 10: Palm Islands Nature Reserve
Boat Trip to Palm Islands
Take a small boat from Al Mina for a 30-minute ride to these protected islands. Perfect for a family picnic and swimming.
Beach Picnic
Enjoy lunch on the island. Remember to bring plenty of water and sun protection as there is little shade.
Return to Al Mina
Explore the charming seaside district of Al Mina with its colorful houses and quiet cafes.
Dinner on the Corniche
The Al Mina Corniche is wide and full of families in the evening, making it a very safe and fun atmosphere.
Day 11: Tripoli to Bsharri - Into the Mountains
Drive to the Qadisha Valley
A scenic drive up into the mountains. The air gets cooler and the views of the deep gorge are world-class.
Gibran Museum
Dedicated to the famous poet Kahlil Gibran, this museum is housed in an old monastery carved into the rock.
Bsharri Village Walk
Explore the red-roofed village of Bsharri. It's a very peaceful and safe place for children to walk.
Traditional Mountain Dinner
Enjoy hearty mountain food like kibbeh and fresh local vegetables by a fireplace.
Day 12: Cedars of God - Ancient Giants
Cedars of God Forest
Walk through the last remains of the ancient cedar forests. The main path is relatively flat and easy for families.
Cedar Sculpture Trail
Look for the sculptures carved into dead cedar trunks within the forest, including one representing the crucifixion.
Qadisha Valley Viewpoint
Stop at one of the many safe pull-off points for a family photo with the UNESCO-listed valley in the background.
Relax at the Hotel
Enjoy the crisp mountain air and let the children play in the open spaces around the lodge.
Day 13: Baalbek - Roman Wonders
Baalbek Temple Complex
See the massive Temple of Bacchus. It is one of the best-preserved Roman temples in the world and will awe both kids and adults.
Lunch in Baalbek
Try the local Sfiha Baalbakieh (meat pies), which are a specialty of the region and very kid-friendly.
The Stone of the Pregnant Woman
Visit the nearby quarry to see one of the largest monoliths ever quarried in antiquity.
Return Drive to Beirut
Head back to the capital for the final leg of the journey, enjoying the sunset over the Bekaa Valley.
Day 14: Chouf Mountains - Palaces & Nature
Beiteddine Palace
Visit this 19th-century palace known for its intricate mosaics and beautiful courtyards. The layout is mostly flat.
Deir el Qamar Village
Explore this historic stone village. The central square is pedestrian-friendly and perfect for a slow stroll.
Moussa Castle
A quirky castle built by one man. It features animated scenes of traditional Lebanese life which kids find fascinating.
Chouf Biosphere Reserve
Take a short, easy walk in the largest cedar reserve in Lebanon before heading back to Beirut.
Day 15: Beirut - Last Minute Fun
Pigeon Rocks Boat Ride
If you didn't do it on day one, take a boat trip through the caves for a final sea adventure.
Lunch at a Garden Cafe
Enjoy a final Lebanese feast in one of Beirut's garden restaurants, giving the kids room to move.
Gift Shopping in Saifi Village
A beautiful, upscale neighborhood with unique boutiques and art galleries, perfect for high-quality souvenirs.
Farewell Dinner in Mar Mikhael
Experience the trendy side of Beirut with a family dinner in this vibrant, walkable neighborhood.
Day 16: Departure from Beirut
Final Breakfast on the Corniche
Enjoy one last Lebanese breakfast (Manoushe) overlooking the Mediterranean.
Airport Transfer
Take a stress-free private transfer back to the airport for your flight home.
Departure
Board your flight with incredible memories of Lebanon's history and hospitality.
Arrival Home
Reflect on your epic family journey through the heart of the Levant.
Best Time to Visit Lebanon
The best time to visit Lebanon for a family trip is during the spring (April to June) or autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm, perfect for exploring ruins and walking in cities without the intense heat of summer. Spring also brings beautiful wildflowers and green landscapes, while autumn offers the harvest season in the Bekaa Valley.
Currency & Money
The currency in Lebanon is the Lebanese Pound (LBP). However, the US Dollar is widely accepted and often preferred in many establishments. It is highly recommended to carry cash in small denominations of USD. Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and large malls in Beirut, but for souks, local restaurants, and transport, cash is essential. Tipping is customary, usually around 10% in restaurants.
Getting Around Lebanon
For families, the most comfortable way to get around Lebanon is by hiring a private car with a driver. This provides flexibility, safety, and comfort, especially when traveling with strollers or young children. There are no trains in Lebanon. Within Beirut, ride-sharing apps like Bolt or Uber are reliable and safer than hailing taxis on the street. For intercity travel, avoid public buses if you have a lot of luggage or small children, as they can be crowded and informal.
