Overview
Beirut is one of the Mediterranean's most characterful capitals, where Phoenician ruins, French-era architecture and a buzzing seafront Corniche sit side by side. For UK travellers it makes a short, rewarding break, known for its superb food and genuine welcome. Do check the latest FCDO travel advice for Lebanon before booking, as the regional situation can change at short notice.
Best time to fly to Beirut
Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are the sweet spots, with warm, dry days and comfortable evenings. July and August are hot, humid and busy as the Lebanese diaspora returns home, so flights and hotels fill and fares climb. Winter is mild on the coast but wet, though it opens up skiing at Faraya-Mzaar less than an hour away. For the cheapest seats, compare travel dates on the price charts on this page.
Airlines and routes
Middle East Airlines (MEA), Lebanon's flag carrier, operates the main direct service from London Heathrow, with a typical flight time of around four and a half hours. From Manchester and other UK airports you will usually connect through a European or Gulf hub, such as Istanbul with Turkish Airlines, Paris with Air France, or Doha and Dubai with Qatar Airways and Emirates, for a total journey of roughly 8 to 12 hours depending on the layover. Routes and frequencies do change, so check the When to book chart above for current options.
Things to do in Beirut
Compact and walkable in parts, Beirut rewards curiosity. A few highlights:
- National Museum of Beirut: the country's finest archaeological collection, from Phoenician sarcophagi to Roman mosaics.
- The Corniche and Pigeon Rocks: a breezy seafront promenade ending at the natural rock arches off Raouche.
- Beirut Souks and Downtown: rebuilt shopping streets around Nejmeh Square, the Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque and Roman remains.
- Sursock Museum: modern and contemporary Lebanese art inside a restored early-1900s villa.
- Gemmayzeh and Mar Mikhael: the city's best streets for cafes, wine bars, galleries and late-night dining.
At Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY)
The airport sits about 9km south of the city centre, roughly 20 to 30 minutes by road outside peak times. There is no rail link, so a taxi or a pre-booked private transfer is the simplest option; agree the fare before setting off, or ask the driver to use the meter. Many hotels will arrange a pickup, and ride-hailing apps also operate. Carry some small notes for tips.
Top tips for finding cheap flights to Beirut
- Book roughly two to four months ahead for the best choice, as last-minute fares to Beirut are rarely a bargain.
- Avoid July, August and the Christmas and Easter holidays, when diaspora demand pushes prices up.
- Fly midweek, as Tuesday and Wednesday departures are usually cheaper than weekend ones.
- Weigh a direct MEA flight against one-stop options on Turkish Airlines, Air France or a Gulf carrier, using the price charts on this page to spot the cheapest dates.
Travel essentials
UK passport holders are generally issued a free tourist visa on arrival for stays of up to one month; carry at least six months' passport validity, and note that any Israeli stamps or evidence of travel to Israel will lead to refused entry. The currency is the Lebanese pound, but the economy is heavily dollarised, so bring clean US dollars in cash, as card payments and ATMs can be unreliable. No vaccinations are required for most travellers, but check NHS Fit for Travel and current FCDO advice before you go.
