Baalbek, Anjar and Ksara Guided Full-Day Tour from Beirut

Beirut , Lebanon

Baalbek, Anjar and Ksara Guided Full-Day Tour from Beirut

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About this experience

Explore Baalbek temples and other Bekaa Valley highlights with the company of a knowledgeable tour leader and driver. You will be picked up from your hotel in Beirut in a private modern vehicle and your tour leader will take care of leading the way along all the sites and providing you with information about the local area and recommendations. Our tours offer excellent quality of service and value for money and can be tailored to your interests.

Available options

Baalbek, Anjar and Ksara Guided Full-Day Tour from Beirut

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

All Fees and Taxes

WiFi on board

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

On this history-rich excursion, we travel east to the ancient city of Baalbek driving along the country’s prime agricultural region, the Bekaa Valley and its fertile soil, a huge multi-colored patchwork of fields, vines and villages, nestled between Mount Lebanon to the west and the Anti-Lebanon mountains to the east.

Stop 2

We explore the spectacular Roman temples of Baalbek-Heliopolis dedicated to Jupiter, Bacchus and Venus, which makes up the largest and best-preserved Roman architecture left around. The Jupiter temple isn't just the largest Roman temple in the world. The granite and limestone pillars themselves are among the largest archaeologists have ever seen. The six Corinthian columns which remain of 54 columns - each 20 meters tall and 2.5 meters in diameter - are said to be the world's largest.

Stop 3

This tour continues with a visit to Ksara Winery, a 19th-century winery established by Jesuit priests and the oldest of its kind in Lebanon. We will learn about winemaking as we visit its vineyards and cellars, and then treat our taste buds to a sampling of world-famous dry wines.

Our final stop in the Beqaa Valley is the town of Anjar which reveal a rich slice of Islamic history during the 8th century. Here, you visit UNESCO-listed ruins dating to the Umayyad Caliphate and explore the site’s impressive arches and palace.

Available languages

Guide guide

AR EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

6 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Beirut

Beirut is the capital and largest city of Lebanon, renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning Mediterranean coastline. Known as the 'Paris of the Middle East,' it offers a unique blend of ancient ruins, modern luxury, and bustling street life.

Top Attractions

Beirut Central District

The heart of Beirut, this district is a blend of modern skyscrapers and ancient ruins, offering a glimpse into the city's rich history and vibrant present.

Historical/Architecture Half day to full day Free to moderate

National Museum of Beirut

One of the most important archaeological museums in the Middle East, showcasing artifacts from various periods of Lebanese history.

Museum 2-3 hours Moderate (around $5-$10)

Raouche Rock

A stunning natural limestone rock formation rising from the Mediterranean Sea, offering breathtaking views and a popular spot for photos.

Nature/Scenic 1-2 hours Free (unless dining at the restaurant)

Byblos

One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Byblos offers ancient ruins, a charming old souk, and a picturesque harbor.

Historical/Cultural Half day to full day Moderate (entry fees for some sites)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hummus

A creamy dip made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, often served with pita bread.

Appetizer Vegetarian, Vegan

Tabbouleh

A refreshing salad made from parsley, bulgur wheat, tomatoes, and lemon juice.

Appetizer Vegetarian, Vegan

Kibbeh

A dish made from ground meat (usually lamb or beef) mixed with bulgur and spices, often fried or baked.

Appetizer Contains meat

Kafta

Ground meat (usually lamb or beef) mixed with spices and herbs, often grilled or fried.

Main Course Contains meat

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby mountains Scuba diving and snorkeling in the Mediterranean Beach lounging at Raouche or Dbayeh Spa and wellness treatments Visiting museums and historical sites Attending local festivals and events Swimming and water sports Boat tours along the coast

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

Spring and autumn offer the best weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The temperatures are comfortable, and the city is in full bloom during these seasons.

15°C to 28°C 59°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Arabic
Widely spoken: French, English
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Lebanese Pound (LBP)

Time Zone

GMT+2 (EET)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Beirut is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Petty crime and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps
• Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas

Getting there

By air

Rafic Hariri International Airport • 9 km (5.6 miles) from city center

By bus

Charles Helou Bus Station, Dawra Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport, but they can be crowded and may not have fixed schedules.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Gemmayzeh Hamra Achrafieh

Day trips

Byblos

40 km (25 miles) • Half day to full day

One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Byblos offers ancient ruins, a charming old souk, and a picturesque harbor.

Jeita Grotto

20 km (12 miles) • Half day

A stunning natural limestone cave system with a breathtaking underground river and waterfalls, offering a unique and unforgettable experience.

Harissa

20 km (12 miles) • Half day

A picturesque hilltop town offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the famous Our Lady of Lebanon shrine, a popular pilgrimage site.

Festivals

Beirut International Film Festival • October to November Beirut Jazz Festival • July Eid al-Fitr • Varies by lunar calendar (usually April to June)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic phrases in Arabic to enhance your experience and interact with locals
Visit the Beirut Central District early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat
Try local street food like falafel, shawarma, and manakish for an authentic and affordable dining experience
Use ride-hailing apps like Bolt for a more convenient and reliable taxi experience
Explore the city's vibrant nightlife in neighborhoods like Gemmayzeh and Hamra, where you'll find a mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues