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Getting Around in Lebanon
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From Beirut International Airport
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Most hotels in Beirut can arrange for a taxi driver to pick you up from the hotel.
Allô Taxi
is a popular and professional taxi service. The price is usually around US$30 from the airport to a hotel in downtown Beirut.
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 Buses
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For the more independent traveler, it is possible to make your way to the main attractions in Lebanon via a combination of buses and taxis, or rental car. The small size of the country makes such trips very manageable. The two main bus companies in Lebanon are the public bus company,
OCFTC, and the private bus company, the Lebanese Commuting Company (LCC) Sawi-Zantout. (There are other private bus companies, but they are operated by tour companies and require that you have a minimum number of people traveling to the same destination).
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Both OCFTC and LCC have buses that run from the Cola roundabout in Beirut to the main squares of other cities in the South
(Saida, Sarafand, Tyre) and the Chouf (Deir el Kamar). Buses also depart from Charles Helo Station for cities in the Tannourine
(Aquoura). The price of a one-way ticket to is usually LL1,500 to LL3,000 (US$1 to US$2) per person. Buses of both companies operate daily from 06:40 to 20:00. The best thing to do is go to the Cola roundabout or Charles Helo Station and ask someone which bus goes to your desired destination. |
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Taxis
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Alternatively, you can hire a taxi and driver from Allô Taxi,
New Taxi, or Premier Taxi to take you on a return trip to a destination outside of Beirut. You should be sure to agree on a round-trip price ahead of time. Round-trip prices range from US$50 to US$125, depending on the destination and type of car desired. The taxi will pick you up from your hotel.
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Rental
Cars
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The price of petrol (gas) is very expensive in Lebanon. Since a rental car with full tank of gas costs about US$75 per day, it is not necessarily cheaper than hiring a taxi or joining a small, outfitted tour. Plus, outside of Beirut there is a shortage of road signage, in general, and those signs that do exist are in Arabic. An International Driving Permit is required if you want to drive in Lebanon.
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Organized Bus
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ToursA number of traditional tour companies take tourists on full-size, air-conditioned buses to the main tourist destinations in Lebanon. Check with these tour operators for tour package options.
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Outfitted Trips
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Another option is to see the country as part of a small, outfitted group. Outdoor adventure and ecotour operators will arrange transportation for packages in different price ranges. An added bonus is that guided outdoor or cultural activities are included and tailored to your group’s interests. Other than independent travel, an outfitted trip can be the best way to truly explore the country and experience the Lebanon’s culture and nature.
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