Crusaders & Caves

Day 1

Arrival. Pick up from airport and drop to hotel. Overnight in Beirut (Hamra area). Meal plan: N/A

Day 2

Drive to the South of Lebanon to one of the oldest Phoenician cities, Sidon (Saida) and explore the colourful souk, the sea castle and the fish market (the name ‘Sidon’ means fishery). From Sidon drive to another Phoenician town, Tyre (Sur), and visit its spectacular ruins. Learn the complex history of invasions by Persians, Egyptians, Ottomans and Babylonians. Return to Beirut for overnight, Meal plan: B

Day 3

Half day tour of Beirut including the modern downtown, the historic Green Line, the bustling Hamra and the charming waterfront, known as The Cornice. In the afternoon drive to Jeita’s grotto. Spend some time exploring these incredible caves with one of the world`s most impressive collection of stalagmites and stalactites. Drive to Byblos for overnight in hotel. Meal plan: B

Day 4

Take a tour of Byblos’ famous archaeological sites including its Crusader castle and Roman ruins. Wander through the beautiful souk and down to the harbour, once the nerve centre of the world’s shipping, for lunch. Nowadays there’s little more than a quaint little port. After lunch, drive to the stunning and historic Qadisha Valley, stop in Bsharreh to visit the Gebran museum, dedicated to the Lebanese artist, writer and philosopher, Khalil Gibran. Take a walk through a Cedars grove. Drive to Baalbek for dinner & overnight In hotel. Meal plan: B, D

Day 5

Visit Baalbek (the "Sun City"), arguably the most important Roman site in the whole Middle East. After marvelling at the temple complex in Baalbek, drive to the famous Ksara winery to take a tour of the winery and to sample some of Lebanon's finest wines. From Ksara drive to the predominantly Armenian town of Aanjar. Visit the beautful Umayyad ruins here before stopping for lunch in Aanjar town. After lunch return to Beirut. Rest of the day free. Meal plan: B,L

Day 6

Breakfast. Transfer to Beirut airport. Meal plan: B