Best Tours in Lebanon, 3-days-with Pick-up & Drop-off

Traveling through Lebanon in just a few days might sound ambitious, but this carefully curated 3-day guided tour promises to do just that — showcasing some of the country’s most breathtaking sites in a well-organized, relaxed manner. With hotel pick-up and drop-off, an experienced group leader, and thoughtful itineraries, it’s a fantastic option for those short on time but eager to soak in Lebanon’s highlights.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the convenience of door-to-door transport means no fuss with public transit. Second, the expert guides add rich context and stories that elevate the experience beyond just looking at ruins and beaches. Lastly, the value for money is notable, considering the number of major sites you visit plus included lunches.

However, potential travelers should keep in mind that entrance fees are not included, so budgeting for these separately is wise. Also, since the tour covers a lot of ground, expect long but rewarding days with quite a bit of walking and vehicle time.

This tour appeals mostly to solo travelers, couples, or small groups who want a comprehensive, hassle-free introduction to Lebanon’s top attractions. If you’re after an immersive, flexible exploration, this might not be the best fit — but for efficient sightseeing, it’s hard to beat.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Pickup, transfers, and guided explanations make it easy to focus on enjoying the sights.
• Diverse Highlights: From natural wonders like Jeita Grotto to ancient ruins in Baalbek, the tour covers Lebanon’s diverse attractions.
• Expert Guides: Guides seem to be knowledgeable and friendly, often making extra efforts to share interesting stories.
• Meal Inclusions: Lunch is included on one day, presenting a chance to enjoy traditional Lebanese cuisine without additional planning.
• Cost-Effective: At $225 per person, the tour offers good value considering the extensive itinerary.
• Limited Flexibility: The busy schedule means you’ll see a lot but with less free time to explore independently.

Day 1: From Natural Wonders to Historic Coastal Towns

The first day kicks off early with a hotel pickup around 8:30 am. Your first stop is the Jeita Grotto, one of Lebanon’s most iconic natural attractions. As you step inside the limestone caves, you’ll encounter spectacular subterranean landscapes with impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Tour reviews mention that the caves are a fairytale setting and span nearly 10 kilometers, giving plenty to explore, although entry fees are not included.

Following the caves, the group heads to Harissa, home to the Virgin Mary Statue perched atop Mount Harissa. The panoramic views of Jounieh Bay from here are often praised, making it a photo-worthy moment. Reviewers highlight the beautiful scenery, with some mentioning that the drive through the mountain is a highlight in itself.

Next, you’ll visit the Téléférique Harissa — a cable car ride offering sweeping vistas. If the cable car isn’t running, transportation continues by vehicle. The Teleferique du Liban then takes you down to Byblos, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. Here, you’ll spend about 1.5 hours exploring the UNESCO World Heritage site, including the Byblos Castle and the Old Souk. Reviewers note the site’s charm, with the castle and old market providing a blend of history and lively local crafts.

Lunchtime at a traditional restaurant at the port allows you to sample authentic Lebanese dishes — a highlight for many. After lunch, the day winds down with a stroll along the marina and visits to the Byblos Port and castle ruins, where you can walk along ancient walls and soak in the history.

Day 2: Coastal History and Ancient Ruins

The second day dives into Sidon and Tyre, two major Phoenician cities. Starting at Sidon’s Crusaders Sea Castle, you’re transported into a medieval storybook setting. The castle’s strategic seaside location makes for compelling photos, and guides often share stories of its history.

After exploring the castle, your group wanders through Sidon’s old souk, with reviewers appreciating the authentic atmosphere and the chance to see vendors selling fresh catches and traditional crafts. A visit to the Musee du Savon offers insights into Lebanon’s soap-making heritage, with demonstrations showing traditional olive oil soap production — a small but fascinating detail many travelers find memorable.

Next, the tour visits Maghdoucheh, home to the Our Lady of Mantara shrine, a peaceful site with a sacred cave and a statue of the Virgin Mary. Many travelers enjoy the spiritual ambiance here and the scenic views of the surrounding hills.

The afternoon shifts to the ancient city of Tyre, where highlights include the Roman Hippodrome — a massive, well-preserved chariot racing stadium that seated 20,000 spectators. Reviewers often mention walking through such impressive Roman ruins, visualizing ancient spectacles.

Additional stops include the Al-Bass archaeological site, featuring Byzantine and Roman remains like a triumphal arch and aqueduct ruins. Then, you’ll have some free time at Tyre’s traditional beach houses and a chance to relax by the sea before heading back to Beirut.

Day 3: The Ruins of Baalbek and the Bekaa Valley

The final day transports you to Baalbek, about 120 kilometers east, with a pickup around 8:30 am. The journey through the Bekaa Valley offers lovely views of lush farmland, giving a glimpse into Lebanon’s agricultural heartland.

Your first stop is Anjar, showcasing Umayyad city planning with its surprisingly well-preserved ruins. The layout resembles palace-cities of ancient times, and travelers comment on how unique and impressive the site is for understanding early Islamic urban design.

Next, the tour visits Baalbek itself, often called the crown jewel of Roman architecture. Here, the temple complex includes the Temple of Bacchus and the Temple of Jupiter, both renowned for their size and grandeur. Reviewers note that the columns of Jupiter are among the heaviest ever used in construction, and the site’s scale is mind-boggling. The Hajar al-Hibla, or Stone of the Pregnant Woman, is another highlight — a colossal monolith that demonstrates Roman engineering prowess.

A traditional lunch at a local restaurant in Baalbek wraps up the day. The meal, often featuring fresh meat, chicken, or vegetarian options, offers a taste of authentic Lebanese cuisine before you’re driven back to Beirut.

Reviewers consistently praise the guides, mentioning how knowledgeable and friendly guides like Harake and Ali go above and beyond to share stories and answer questions. The small group size (maximum 15 travelers) means more personalized attention, and many say the guides make the experience more engaging and fun.

The scenery is a major highlight — from the underground marvel of Jeita Grotto to the spectacular Roman ruins in Baalbek. Travelers also love the variety of sites covered, blending nature, history, and coastal charm seamlessly.

The included lunches get high marks for quality, allowing travelers to enjoy Lebanese specialties without extra hassle. The comfort of air-conditioned vehicles and timely pickups are frequently praised, especially given the busy itinerary.

However, some reviewers mention that entrance fees are not included, which means additional costs at sites like Jeita Grotto and Baalbek. On top of that, with long days and tight schedules, travelers should be prepared for some walking and sightseeing fatigue.

This 3-day Lebanon tour offers an excellent balance of natural beauty, ancient ruins, and cultural experiences. It’s best suited for travelers who want a well-organized, educational overview of Lebanon’s most iconic sites without having to worry about logistics. The inclusion of hotel pick-up and transfers adds to the convenience, while the expert guides ensure you’re not just staring at ruins but understanding their stories.

At $225, the price covers transportation, expert guidance, and a taste of Lebanese cuisine, making it a cost-effective way to see a lot in a short period. It’s particularly appealing for solo travelers or small groups who prefer a guided experience that maximizes sightseeing while minimizing planning hassle.

For those craving an immersive, flexible, or customized adventure, this tour might feel a bit structured. But for anyone wanting a comprehensive snapshot of Lebanon’s top attractions with excellent value, it’s hard to beat.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your Beirut hotel are part of the package, and you’ll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle throughout.

How long does each day last?
The days are packed but manageable, with roughly 8-10 hours of sightseeing including travel and breaks.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are not included, so you’ll need to budget for sites like Jeita Grotto, Baalbek, and others separately.

What’s the group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of 15 travelers, which helps keep things intimate and personalized.

Are meals included?
Lunch is included on Day 1, providing a taste of Lebanese cuisine. Other days include local dining options.

Can this tour be customized?
This specific tour isn’t customizable, but it’s designed to cover the highlights efficiently for travelers on a tight schedule.

What is the level of physical activity?
Expect some walking and exploring at each site. The sites are generally accessible, but comfortable shoes are recommended.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book around 61 days ahead, so planning early ensures availability, especially in peak seasons.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many reviewers—like Lisa and Maryum—highlight how it’s perfect for solo travelers wanting a friendly group experience.

In just three days, this Lebanon tour packs in a diverse array of sites, from breathtaking caves to ancient temples. It offers a well-organized, value-packed experience that’s perfect for those eager to get a broad sense of this fascinating country without the stress of logistics.

While it’s not for travelers looking for total flexibility, those who enjoy guided tours with knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and authentic local food will find plenty to love here. It’s a smart choice for anyone wanting a comprehensive, hassle-free introduction to Lebanon’s most famous sights.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group, this tour offers a friendly, informative way to tick Lebanon’s top attractions off your list and create lasting memories.