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Asia Lebanon Beirut Do & See Corniche El Manara

Overview

Corniche El Manara

The guide was updated: 2025-10-14

Walk or bike along the Corniche to witness the leisurely flow of life by the Mediterranean; if you head south towards the Raouche neighbourhood, you will eventually come to one of Beirut's most iconic natural sites: the Pigeon Rocks, limestone formations jutting out of the sea. Come at sundown for shisha with a view.

Useful Information

Address: Corniche El Manara, Beirut

Our travel guides are free to read and explore online. If you want to get your own copy, the full travel guide for this destination is available to you offline* to bring along anywhere or print for your trip.

*this will be downloaded as a PDF.

Price

€4,95

Purchase

Corniche El Manara

Corniche El Manara

Walk or bike along the Corniche to witness the leisurely flow of life by the Mediterranean; if you head south towards the Raouche neighbourhood, you will eventually come to one of Beirut's most iconic natural sites: the Pigeon Rocks, limestone formations jutting out of the sea. Come at sundown for shisha with a view.

Sakhrat Al-Rawchieh — Pigeon Rocks

Sakhrat Al-Rawchieh — Pigeon Rocks

Raouché Rocks, also known as the Pigeon Rocks, is one of Beirut’s most iconic landmarks. Rising from the Mediterranean, these natural rock formations are best admired from the Corniche, where people gather to take in the view. For a closer look, you can take a boat ride around the rocks and through their sea caves. The trip offers stunning views, sea breezes, and a glimpse of Beirut’s coastal charm. Visiting Sakhrat al-Rawsheh is an experience not to be missed.

Roman Baths & Forum

Roman Baths & Forum

This site is an opportunity that Beirut offers to admire its Roman heritage. Located right in the heart of downtown, between Banks Street and Capuchin Street, these archaeological ruins showcase a glimpse into the city’s ancient past. You can still see the four halls, a marble pool, stone basins, and even a medicinal garden that reflects Roman traditions. Just a short walk away, you’ll also find the Roman Forum of Beirut. Best of all, entry is free of charge.

Mohammad Al Amin Mosque

Mohammad Al Amin Mosque

Mohammad Al Amin Mosque is Beirut’s most important and largest mosque, instantly recognisable by its blue dome and four minarets. Built in the Ottoman-Turkish architectural style, it dominates the skyline around Martyrs’ Square and is regarded by locals as a symbol of Lebanese unity. Inside, the mosque is just as impressive. You will be captivated by its chandeliers, intricate Islamic calligraphy, and warm lighting. Tourists are welcome, but it’s essential to respect the dress code and worshippers. Keep in mind that entry is limited to the five daily prayer times.

Downtown Beirut

Downtown Beirut

Downtown Beirut is best explored on a cycling tour during the day. The city centre showcases sleek glass towers, while just a block away, abandoned high-rises with bullet holes stand as urban fossils from a not-so-distant war. The area is a blend of modern and traditional architecture, complemented by dining options and important historical landmarks. Make sure you stop to take a photo at the popular 'I Love Beirut' sign, visit Martyrs’ Square, a moving memorial to the nationalists executed here in 1916 under Ottoman rule, and admire the impressive Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque.

Hamra Street

Hamra Street

Hamra Street is one of Beirut’s most vibrant hubs, located in the Hamra neighbourhood. It’s a commercial and entertainment street lined with cafés, restaurants, shops, and bookshops. Long regarded as the intellectual and cultural heart of the city, Hamra also boasts theatres and art spaces, attracting students, writers, and artists. Its cosmopolitan energy and diplomatic presence give the area a distinctly international flair.

Gemmayzeh & Mar Mikhael Neighbourhoods

Gemmayzeh & Mar Mikhael Neighbourhoods

To discover an edgier, hip side to the city, walk down the thoroughfares of Armenia Street, Mar Mikhael, and Gouraud Street, Gemmayzeh, and soak in Beirut's undeniable cool. There are plenty of attractive brunch spots and swank art galleries around. Check out the St Nicholas Stairs in the summer for some al fresco art.

Byblos

Byblos

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Byblos is a treasured city, reportedly the first to be inhabited by Phoenicians, hosting a sequence of mighty civilisations; from Egyptians to Ottomans, over the following millennia. It's an easy day trip from Beirut to see early settlements dating back to the B.C., the 12th century Crusader Castle, and the ancient Phoenician port.

National Museum of Beirut

National Museum of Beirut

One of the best archaeological museums in the Middle East, the National Museum of Beirut provides an excellent overview of the region's history. Highlights include the world's largest display of sarcophagi, a line-up of 31 with naturalistic-looking carved faces, a reconstructed Roman tomb, and a collection of bronze Phoenician figurines uncovered at Byblos. The museum is located on the once-volatile Green Line.

Sursock Museum & Palace

Sursock Museum & Palace

The Sursock Museum of Modern Art occupies the villa once inhabited by its founder, Nicolas Ibrahim Sursock, who instructed successors to turn the building into an art museum. The will was well-executed: the Sursock Museum is now among Beirut's most attractive, with free entry and guided tours. Its namesake palace is closed to the public, but certainly worth a look.

MIM Mineral Museum

MIM Mineral Museum

If you’re a fan of crystals and minerals, the MIM Mineral Museum in Beirut is a must-visit. Its collection displays gemstones from all over the world in a setting that feels magical. Highlights include the interactive fossil theatre, a 3D installation featuring a flying dinosaur, and even four pieces of meteorite rock. With over 2,000 minerals currently on display, it’s one of the most impressive collections in the region. Even if minerals aren’t usually your thing, the museum presents everything in such an engaging and creative way that it’s easy to get absorbed. Entry is free, though a donation box at the entrance lets you show your support.

American University of Beirut

American University of Beirut

Founded in the 1860s by an American missionary, the lush, sprawling campus of the prestigious American University of Beirut is a pleasure to stroll around. It offers something of a journey into the city's pre-war days. There is an excellent archaeological museum on-site, along with several art galleries, and many nonchalant feline residents, cats, who famously inhabit the premises.

Jeita Grotto

Jeita Grotto

Jeita Grotto, located just 19 km from Beirut, is one of Lebanon’s most spectacular natural wonders. This system of two interconnected limestone caves stretches for about 9 km, featuring rock formations and crystal-clear waters that make it a must-see attraction. A visit here is perfect for a day trip, as you can also explore nearby highlights such as the Nahr al-Kalb River, Ballouneh Park, and St. Thérèse Church. Since the grotto is one of the country’s most popular destinations, it’s highly recommended to book your visit in advance to avoid long waits.

Temples of Baalbek

Temples of Baalbek

The splendid Roman Temple of Baalbek is among Lebanon's most important archaeological monuments, an ancient place of worship with barely any competition among similar structures in the ancient world. Plan your trip around the Baalbeck International Festival for live music and plays held in the town.

Château Ksara

Château Ksara

The historic winery hidden in the Bekaa Valley east of Beirut makes for a fantastic day trip. Tours of the underground caves are held daily, and on-site dining is available at the adjacent restaurant.

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