18-Day Ultimate Family Epic Journey Through Lebanon
Lebanon is a treasure trove for families seeking a blend of Mediterranean sun, ancient Phoenician history, and world-class culinary experiences. This 18-day itinerary is designed with a relaxed pace, ensuring that even the youngest travelers can enjoy the sights without burnout, while parents soak in the rich culture and hospitality of the Levant.
This journey takes you from the cosmopolitan streets of Beirut to the ancient cedar forests of the north and the Roman grandeur of the Beqaa Valley. We prioritize stroller-accessible paths, short travel times between regions, and kid-friendly attractions that make history come alive for the little ones.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & Relaxed Intro to Beirut
Airport Arrival & Transfer
Touch down at Rafic Hariri International Airport. Take a pre-booked private transfer to your hotel in the Hamra or Raouche district for a seamless start.
Lunch at T-Marbouta
Enjoy a relaxed Lebanese lunch in a garden setting. This spot is very welcoming to families and offers great mezze that kids usually love.
Raouche Rocks Stroll
Walk along the wide, stroller-friendly Corniche to see the iconic Pigeon Rocks. The sea breeze is refreshing after a flight.
Dinner at Zaitunay Bay
A modern yacht marina with a wide boardwalk, perfect for children to run around safely away from traffic.
Day 2: Beirut - History & Culture
National Museum of Beirut
Explore Lebanon's history in a manageable, well-lit museum. The Phoenician sarcophagi are particularly impressive for older children.
Horsh Beirut Park
The city's largest green space. It’s a great spot for a picnic and letting the kids play on the grass under the pine trees.
Sursock Museum
A beautiful contemporary art museum housed in a stunning villa. The outdoor courtyard is a peaceful spot for a snack.
Mar Mikhael Exploration
Walk through this trendy neighborhood early in the evening to see the famous colorful stairs before the nightlife crowd arrives.
Day 3: Beirut - Science and Souks
Planet Discovery
A dedicated children’s science museum in the Beirut Souks area. Highly interactive and perfect for burning off morning energy.
Beirut Souks Lunch
A modern shopping district that is entirely pedestrianized and stroller-accessible, with plenty of international and local dining options.
Mohammed Al-Amin Mosque
Visit this stunning Blue Mosque. Its grand architecture is awe-inspiring, and the surrounding square is open and safe for kids.
Nejmeh Square
The heart of the renovated city center, featuring the famous Rolex clock tower and many cafes with outdoor seating.
Day 4: Beirut - Coastal Fun
American University of Beirut (AUB) Museum
Visit the archeological museum located within the beautiful, park-like AUB campus, which is one of the greenest spots in the city.
Bliss Street Bites
Grab a traditional Manoushe (Lebanese pizza) from a local bakery—a cheap, delicious, and kid-approved lunch.
Riviera Beach Lounge
Spend a relaxed afternoon by the pool. Many beach clubs in Beirut offer family pools and child-friendly amenities.
Hamra Street Shopping
A vibrant commercial street perfect for picking up souvenirs and enjoying some local ice cream from Bachir.
Day 5: Jounieh - The View from Above
Telepherique to Harissa
Take the cable car from Jounieh up to the shrine of Our Lady of Lebanon. The ride is a highlight for children.
Our Lady of Lebanon Shrine
Enjoy the panoramic views of the bay. The area is paved and easy to navigate with a stroller.
Jounieh Old Souk
A charming seaside district with stone houses and small shops. Much quieter than Beirut.
Sunset at Jounieh Bay
Relax at a seaside cafe while the sun sets over the Mediterranean.
Day 6: Jounieh - Underground Wonders
Jeita Grotto
Visit these incredible limestone caves. The lower grotto includes a short boat ride that kids find magical.
Lebanon Water Park (Waves)
If visiting in summer, this is the perfect place for a family afternoon of slides and wave pools.
Discovery Adventure Park
An outdoor activity center near Jeita with climbing and play areas suitable for various ages.
Dinner in Kaslik
An upscale neighborhood in Jounieh with plenty of family-friendly restaurant chains and local boutiques.
Day 7: Byblos - Ancient Port City
Byblos Castle
Explore the Crusader castle. The open grounds allow children to run around while you take in the ruins.
Old Souk Lunch
Eat in the heart of the pedestrianized old souk. The cobbles can be bumpy, but it is largely car-free.
Byblos Fossil Museum
A small but fascinating museum where kids can see real fish fossils found in the local mountains.
Byblos Harbor Stroll
Watch the fishing boats come in at one of the oldest continuously inhabited ports in the world.
Day 8: Byblos - Sun & Sea
Eddésands Hotel & Wellness Resort
Spend a full day at this family-friendly beach club with multiple pools and a dedicated kids' area.
Poolside Lunch
Enjoy a hassle-free meal without leaving the resort grounds.
Saint Jean-Marc Church
A beautiful medieval church with a quiet garden, offering a peaceful break from the beach sun.
Dinner at Pepe Abed
A legendary restaurant at the harbor known for its fresh fish and celebrity history.
Day 9: Batroun - Lemonade & History
Batroun Old Town Walk
Explore the winding alleys and visit the Saint Stephan Cathedral. The town is very safe and walkable.
Famous Batroun Lemonade
Stop at Hilmi’s or Hilmi House for the town's world-famous lemonade—a refreshing treat for the kids.
The Phoenician Wall
Walk along the coast to see this ancient sea wall. It’s a great spot for family photos.
Mussaylha Fort
A short drive from Batroun, this fort perched on a rock is like something out of a fairy tale.
Day 10: Batroun - Beach Pacing
Colonel Reef Beach
A laid-back beach spot that is very dog and kid-friendly, with a focus on eco-friendly practices.
Seafood BBQ Lunch
Enjoy locally caught fish grilled right on the beach.
Exploring Smar Jbeil
A quick drive to this nearby village to see the ancient citadel and enjoy the mountain views over the coast.
Dinner in the Souks
Try some local "Batrouni" street food for a casual and cheap evening meal.
Day 11: Tripoli - The Northern Capital
Citadel of Raymond de Saint-Gilles
A massive fortress with great views of the city. The large courtyards are perfect for exploration.
Tripoli Souks Lunch
Dive into the Mamluk-era souks for the best street food in Lebanon. Try the Moghrabieh.
Khan Al-Saboun
Visit the traditional soap-making khan. The scents are wonderful, and kids can see how soap is carved.
Oscar Niemeyer’s Fairground
A futuristic, unfinished fairground designed by the famous architect. It’s a vast, open space for kids to run.
Day 12: Tripoli - Island Adventure
Palm Islands Nature Reserve
Take a boat from Al-Mina port to these offshore islands. Great for bird watching and a quiet swim.
Lunch in Al-Mina
The port district of Tripoli is full of charming cafes and is much more relaxed than the city center.
The Great Mosque of Tripoli
A peaceful and architecturally significant site. Ensure to dress modestly for the visit.
Evening Corniche Walk
Join the local families for a walk along the Tripoli waterfront to end the day.
Day 13: Bcharre - Into the Mountains
Drive to Qadisha Valley
A scenic drive into the mountains. Stop at viewpoints overlooking the "Holy Valley."
Gibran Museum
Dedicated to the famous poet Khalil Gibran, housed in an old monastery. Very atmospheric and quiet.
Bcharre Village Walk
Explore this high-altitude village. The air is crisp and the pace of life is wonderfully slow.
Mountain Stew Dinner
Warm up with a traditional Lebanese mountain dinner featuring slow-cooked meats and vegetables.
Day 14: The Cedars of God
Cedars of God Forest
Walk through the ancient cedar forest. The paths are well-maintained and suitable for a slow family hike.
Picnic in the Forest
Enjoy a packed lunch amidst trees that are thousands of years old.
Qozhaya Monastery
Part of the Qadisha UNESCO site, this monastery includes one of the first printing presses in the Middle East.
Sunset at the Mountain Peaks
Find a safe spot to watch the sun dip below the clouds from Lebanon's highest mountain range.
Day 15: Baalbek - Roman Grandeur
Baalbek Temple Complex
One of the most impressive Roman sites in the world. The Temple of Bacchus is exceptionally well-preserved.
Sfiha Baalbakieh Lunch
Try the local specialty—small meat pies that are famous across the country.
The Stone of the Pregnant Woman
See one of the largest monoliths ever quarried, located just outside the main temple site.
Ras el-Ain Spring
A peaceful park area around a natural spring, perfect for a post-temple rest.
Day 16: Anjar - The Umayyad Legacy
Anjar Ruins
Visit the only Umayyad city ruins in Lebanon. The site is flat and very easy for kids to walk through.
Shams Restaurant
Famous for its incredible spread and kid-friendly atmosphere, this is a must-stop in the Beqaa Valley.
Ksara Winery (Family Friendly)
While known for wine, the ancient caves used for storage are fascinating for kids to explore on a tour.
Zahle Promenade
Walk along the Berdawni River in Zahle, lined with cafes and ice cream parlors.
Day 17: Sidon - Sea Castles and Soap
Sidon Sea Castle
A Crusader fortress built on a small island connected by a stone bridge. A major hit for children's imaginations.
Khan el-Franj
A beautifully restored 17th-century inn. The large central courtyard is open and airy.
Sidon Souks
These medieval souks are vaulted and provide great shade, making them comfortable for an afternoon walk.
Sweet Treat: Senioura
Try the local Sidon sweets before heading further south to Tyre for the night.
Day 18: Tyre - Ancient Sands
Tyre Hippodrome
A UNESCO site with a massive Roman chariot racing track. The open fields are great for exploration.
Lunch at the Port
Enjoy one last Lebanese feast overlooking the colorful harbor of Tyre.
Tyre Public Beach
A wide, sandy beach with shallow waters, perfect for children to swim safely before the trip ends.
Farewell Dinner
Celebrate your 18-day journey with a traditional meal in the old Christian quarter of Tyre.
Best Time to Visit Lebanon
The best time for a family trip to Lebanon is during the Spring (April to June) or Autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm but not scorching, making it comfortable for outdoor exploration and walking with strollers. Spring also brings blooming wildflowers in the mountains, while Autumn offers the harvest season in the Beqaa Valley.
Currency & Money
Lebanon currently uses a dual-currency system involving the Lebanese Pound (LBP) and the US Dollar (USD). While the situation can fluctuate, USD is widely accepted and often preferred in tourist areas. It is highly recommended to carry fresh, crisp USD bills. Tipping is customary, usually around 10% in restaurants, and small tips for drivers and guides are greatly appreciated.
Getting Around Lebanon
Intercity travel in Lebanon is best handled via private car rentals or pre-arranged private drivers, especially for families needing car seats and stroller space. While there are no trains, a network of "Connex" buses runs comfortably between major cities like Beirut, Tripoli, and Tyre. Within cities like Beirut, apps like Uber or Bolt are reliable and offer a safer, fixed-price alternative to flagging down street taxis.
