Understand

Welcome to the vibrant and lively Nejmeh Square! Immerse yourself in the heart of Beirut's bustling city life. This pedestrian-only area is a hotspot for locals and tourists alike. Explore the charming neighborhood of Ashrafieh to the East, with its vibrant shops and cafes. To the West, you'll find the vibrant districts of Hamra, Ras Beirut, Manara, and Rawcheh. Don't forget to take a leisurely stroll along the Beirut Marina, just a short walk away. While some may argue that the area is a bit pricier and caters more to tourists, it still offers a fantastic experience for all visitors.

Get in

Discover the vibrant and bustling downtown area of Beirut with ease. Whether you're arriving from other parts of Beirut or one of the bus stations, getting to downtown is a breeze. Simply hop in a taxi or a service car and ask to be taken to "Downtown" or "Solidere". As you make your way there, be prepared to be amazed by the stunning architecture and lively atmosphere. While some parts of downtown may be restricted due to safety measures, you can still witness the vibrant souk and the remnants of the civil war. Explore the French streets that lead to the harbor and soak in the rich history and culture of the city. Keep in mind that certain archaeological sites may not be accessible, but there is plenty to see and explore in downtown Beirut.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Dish: FalafelFalafel is a traditional Lebanese dish made from mashed chickpeas, herbs (such as parsley and coriander), and spices, formed into small balls or patties and deep-fried until crispy. It's typically served in sandwiches called shawarma or kebbeh, accompanied by pickles, lettuce, tomatoes, and tahini sauce or hummus. Falafel can also be enjoyed as a mezze, an appetizer often shared among friends. The dish is mainly vegetarian but can sometimes include small amounts of meat in the form of ground beef or lamb in the kebbeh.

Dish: ShawarmaShawarma refers to both a cooking technique and a dish. In Lebanon, it commonly involves marinated meat (usually chicken, beef, or lamb) that is slowly roasted on a vertical spit, then thinly sliced and served in sandwiches or on a platter. The flavorful meat is often accompanied by pickles, lettuce, tomatoes, and various sauces such as tahini, garlic, or spicy sauces. While shawarma is typically wrapped in pita bread, it can also be enjoyed over rice or salad. This dish is rarely vegetarian, as it primarily focuses on the marinated and rotating meat.

Dish: Kibbeh nayyeKibbeh nayye, also known simply as kibbeh, is a popular Lebanese dish made from finely ground raw beef or lamb mixed with bulgur wheat, onions, and spices. The mixture is traditionally formed into oval or torpedo shapes and baked in the oven or fried. It's often served with a side of yogurt, pickles, lettuce, and tomatoes. Some variations of the dish may include additional ingredients, such as pine nuts or mint, but it remains predominantly non-vegetarian.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing