Getting Around
Public transport in Beirut is not very well established, as most residents use their own vehicles for getting around the city. Buses operate along set routes, but schedules can be erratic. They are generally modern, comfortable, and air-conditioned.
To avoid embarrassment, men should be aware that seats at the front of the bus are usually reserved for women. Taxis are a popular mode of transport and easily hailed off the street. They are not metered so it's best that passengers agree on the fare before getting into the vehicle. Visitors should try to use reputable companies or a ride-hailing app to get fair prices.
Car hire is available and a viable option for travelling around Beirut, though traffic congestion can be extreme during peak times and Lebanese roads have a very poor safety record. Travellers should consider this option carefully.
Airports
Beirut International Airport
The airport is situated four miles (7km) south of the city.
Beirut International Airport (BEY)
Location
The airport is situated four miles (7km) south of the city.Getting to the city
Taxis are available outside the arrivals hall and can be organised through hotels or reputable companies online prior to arrival, and Uber is also available in Beirut. Authorised vehicles bear the airport logo on their side and charge an official rate. Other taxis are also available but their charge is subject to bargain.
Time
GMT +2 (GMT +3 from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October).Car rental
Car rental companies located at the airport include Dealers, Budget, City Car, National, Avis, Europcar, and Hertz. The car rental operators' desks can be found in the arrivals hall.
Airport Taxis
Organising taxis through reputable companies online or through hotels prior to arrival is the easiest way to get a reliable taxi. Otherwise, certified airport taxis are usually available outside the arrivals hall and have a unified official rate. Uber is an increasingly affordable and reliable option.
Facilities
Airport facilities include ATMs, currency exchange services, offices, a bank, a post office, luggage wrapping services, lost baggage complaints, business lounges, WiFi access, separate Muslim and Christian prayer rooms, and first aid and emergency medical services.
The Information Centre staff members are multilingual, generally speaking Arabic, French, and English. There are a number of cafes and restaurants open to the public, located in the arrival zone. There are also a number of shops, including duty free.
Parking
Parking for 2,350 cars is available at the airport. The parking area is connected to the terminal by an underground walkway. Parking rates start at LBP 6,500 for less than an hour, and go up to LBP 23,000 per day.