£1 LBP 119,916
Today
5:59 am
+2h from you
Travel warning
There is intense conflict in the country with airstrikes and rocket attacks happening frequently, and you're advised to leave large parts of it immediately.
Weather in Lebanon
Lebanon
16°
Thunderstorm
Wed
13
16
Thu
12
16
Fri
14
18
Sat
14
20
Sun
16
20
SPF level in Lebanon
Recommended: SPF 50+
Spring
SPF 50
Summer
SPF 50+
Autumn
SPF 50
Winter
SPF 30
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Getting around Lebanon
Tipping in Lebanon
Tipping is not mandatory in Lebanon, but it is customary for good service. Locals will often round up when paying a bill or give a small tip for services. Tourists are encouraged to tip if they are happy with the service they receive.
Restaurant
10-15% of the bill
Bar/Café
Round up or 5-10% of the bill for good service
Taxi
Round up the fare
Hotel Porter
10,000-20,000 LBP per bag
Hotel Housekeeper
10,000-20,000 LBP per day
Tour Guide
10-15% of the tour price
Safety in Lebanon
Tips for British travellers
Lebanon is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Weapons are common in Lebanon and arguments can quickly escalate into violence, including gunfire.
There is a risk of petty crime, so hide expensive-looking jewellery and avoid carrying large amounts of cash in public.
Due to frequent power cuts, have a torch to hand at night and ensure your phone is charged.
Only take photographs in tourist sites, as photographing military sites can lead to arrest.
Always carry your ID with you as you may need to show it at army checkpoints on the roads.
Bonus tips:
US dollars are widely accepted as cash, but accessing them locally can be difficult, so plan accordingly.
Do not use shared taxis hailed on the street; only use taxis from recognised companies or hotels.
Driving in Lebanon
A UK driving license is accepted, but an International Driving Permit is recommended.
Side of road
right
Motorway speed limit
100 km/h
Urban speed limit
50 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.05%
Remember: Lebanon drives on the right. Take extra care at junctions if you normally drive on the left.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
112
Ambulance
140
Fire
175
Save 112 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in Lebanon
Voltage
220V / 50Hz
Plug types
Type C, Type D, Type G
UK adapter needed?
Yes
Lebanon uses 220V, 50Hz electricity. Plug types C, D, and G are common. British travelers will need a plug adapter.
Cards & payments
Card payments are becoming more common in Lebanon, especially in larger establishments. However, cash is preferred and necessary for smaller businesses, markets, and taxis.
Visa
Medium
Mastercard
Medium
American Express
Low
Lost card? Call Visa: +1-303-967-1096
ATMs in Lebanon
ATMs are available in major cities and tourist areas, but less common in rural areas. Ensure you have sufficient cash when traveling outside major urban centers.
Local name
ATM
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
ATMs are generally a reliable way to access cash, but it is advisable to check with your bank about international withdrawal fees before you travel. Ensure you have a four-digit PIN for using ATMs.
Mobile & roaming
Since the UK's departure from the European Union, EU roaming agreements no longer apply. Check with your mobile provider for roaming charges in Lebanon. Roaming charges can be high, so consider purchasing a local SIM card for a more cost-effective option.
Local SIM data package
10 GB for 225,000 LBP (~£12)
Network coverage
4G, 3G, 2G
Local carriers
Alfa, Touch
WiFi & internet
WiFi is available in many hotels, restaurants, and cafes, especially in Beirut and other major cities. Coverage can be spotty in more rural areas.
Average speed
10 Mbps
While WiFi access is growing, mobile data via a local SIM is often a faster and more reliable option for staying connected.
Health & vaccinations in Lebanon
As a British tourist, ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including emergency evacuation. The GHIC/EHIC card is not applicable in Lebanon. Check your policy's coverage details and ensure it includes Lebanon.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Hepatitis A
Consult your doctor at least 8 weeks before your trip to discuss necessary vaccinations and health precautions. Drink only bottled water and avoid ice in drinks. Be cautious of food hygiene. Healthcare facilities in Lebanon can vary, with Beirut having better options. Ensure you have sufficient travel health insurance and funds to cover medical expenses.
Calling Lebanon
Country code
+961
To call Lebanon from the UK, dial 00 961 followed by the local number.
To call the British Embassy in Beirut, dial 00 961 1 960 800.
The country code for Lebanon is 961. When calling from abroad, drop the leading '0' from the local area code.
UK Embassy in Lebanon
British Embassy Beirut
Charles Malik Avenue, Serail Hill, Beirut
Airport in Lebanon
Frequently asked questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.