Batroun is one of Lebanon’s top destinations! It has history, architecture, churches, beaches, bars, seafood, lemonade, and much more!
In this guide, we’ll cover all you need to know when you visit Batroun. Feel free to skip to the section you want through the table of contents.
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on June 5th, 2021, and was updated on March 2nd, 2023, for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
Table of Contents
Things to Do
Here are our top things to do in Batroun!
1. Take a Walk in the Old Souk
Take a walk through the streets of Batroun and enjoy the authentic vibe of the city! You’ll find many restaurants, bars, guesthouses, and shops along your way.
2. Discover the Old Port
You’ll see fishermen’s boats, a stunning lighthouse, and much more. Also, make sure to pass by St. Stephen Cathedral, the biggest and most famous church in Batroun!
3. Visit The Lebanese Diaspora Village
The Diaspora Village is a project that aims to connect the Lebanese diaspora to their homeland. It has a museum, guesthouse, café, gift shop, bakery, an outdoor square, and several houses for the Diaspora of Lebanese origin around the world.
4. Visit Our Lady of the Sea Church
It has amazing architecture and overlooks the famous Phoenician sea wall. This wall was originally a natural landmark and was later reinforced by the Phoenicians to protect the city from storms and invaders.
5. Have a cup of Lemonade At Hilmi’s
Batroun is famous for its lemonade, and one of the best places to enjoy a refreshing cup is Hilmi’s. They have been serving Lemonade for generations; they even have a Lemonade museum and a gift shop!
6. Try the Chocolate Brioche
Come to Koko’s Bakery in the Old Souk to try his famous chocolate Brioche. People come from all over Lebanon to taste this delicious treat!
7. Go on a Water adventure With Routes
Routes is an ecotourism project in Batroun, offering all kinds of adventures suitable for all groups. Their services include bicycle tours, water sports, golf cart tours, hiking, canyoning, E-scooter tours, and boat trips (Click here to find out more about their services).
Would you like to explore Batroun from the sea? If yes, then check out their water sports activities that include Kayaking and Paddling. You can either rent the equipment to explore on your own or book a private guided tour.
8. Hike in Mseilha Walkway
Mseilha Walkway is a great place to connect with nature, located only 6 minutes away from the Old Souk. It’s an easy and long walkway, perfect for beginner hikers. You’ll see the historic Mseilha fort while on your hike, as well as many wonderful sceneries.
Further Reading: Looking for more hiking places in Lebanon? Click here.
9. Visit Ixsir Winery
Ixsir is one of Lebanon’s best and most famous wineries. It was named by CNN as one of the greenest buildings in the world in 2011! (Read the article here). Book a wine tour to explore the winery, and have a wine-tasting session. Then, have lunch on their terrace while enjoying the beautiful surrounding views.
Further Reading: Click here to explore more wineries in the area.
10. Explore Musee Henry
This extraordinary museum was made from around 100 demolished traditional houses in Beirut! Have a guided tour with the owner of the museum, he’ll tell you the story of this unique place and how he built it.
11. Spend the Day in Arnaoon Village
Located 10 minutes away from Batroun Souk, Arnaoon is the perfect destination for families and friends looking to enjoy a fun day in nature! On the weekends, they offer delicious buffets, outdoor activities, and lots of entertainment.
P.S. They also have a wedding venue and charming guesthouses where you can enjoy a memorable stay (Click here for more information).
Dining in Batroun
Head down to one of these restaurants for an amazing dining experience!
1. Mariolino
Located at Villa Paradiso, Mariolino is the ideal place for a date night in Batroun! Enjoy the finest Italian tastes and the best atmosphere in the heart of the Old Souk.
Further Reading: Take a look at our guide to the best Italian restaurants in Lebanon.
2. Ray’s
This beloved seaside restaurant is known for its blue design and amazing location by the beach. As soon as you enter this place, you’ll feel like you’ve teleported to Greece! You can come for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and enjoy a wide variety of Lebanese and seafood dishes.
3. Merchak Aal Baher
Located at Bonita Bay beach resort, Merchak Aal Baher is one of the best seafood places in Lebanon. They offer fresh seafood, signature dishes, and stunning views; you’ll surely love it!
4. Pierre Y Amigos
Are you craving a Mexican meal? If yes, then Pierre Y Amigos is just the place for you! They serve authentic Mexican dishes and signature cocktails. Make sure to try their Pollo Fajitas and yummy Margaritas!
Further Reading: Looking for more Mexican restaurants in Lebanon? Click here.
5. Yasamin
Yasamin is the first fine-dining restaurant in Batroun! It’s the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion with your loved ones. They offer delicious dishes made from top-quality ingredients, gorgeous food presentation, elegant design, and a romantic atmosphere.
6. Botrys Sea Lounge
Located at La Taiga resort in Kfaraabida, Botrys Sea Lounge is a must-visit restaurant, offering a variety of seafood dishes and Lebanese Mezze. It’s a great spot to relax, refresh and enjoy a delicious seafood meal right by the sea!
7. Tramway
Tramway is an amazing spot for a night out with friends! This gastro-pub offers delicious food, savory cocktails, and great vibes in the heart of Batroun Souks. They also host live performances and awesome parties, so make sure to check out their calendar!
8. Machewe Express
Machewe Express is your go-to place to enjoy authentic Lebanese tastes! They offer Lebanese Mezza, barbecue sandwiches and platters, shawarma sandwiches, and grilled chicken.
9. Midnight Munchies
Head to Midnight Munchies for the best burgers in town! Some of their popular burgers are the Smokey Bbq, Swiss Mushroom, and Munchies Burger. They also serve tasty sandwiches and appetizers.
10. Jessy Juice
Jessy Juice is one of our favorite dessert places! They serve a wide variety of cocktails, juices, and crepes; they are also the creators of the famous Sushi Crepe Boat.
Further Reading: Click here for more dessert places to visit in Lebanon.
Sunset Bars
Enjoy beautiful views, awesome vibes, and tasty drinks at one of these top sunset bars!
1. Bolero
Bolero is the perfect place for a date night with your loved one! Their garden by the sea is the ideal location to chill, grab a drink and enjoy a magical sunset.
2. Pierre and friends
This well-known beach bar is one of the oldest in town! (Since the ’90s). They offer signature cocktails, a seafood menu, stunning views, and a lively atmosphere.
3. Titans
Titans is one of our top sunset destinations! Its white and blue design, breathtaking views, affordable prices, and delicious cocktails contribute to a special sunset experience in Batroun.
4. Isolé
Isolé is an amazing concept by The Factory People, where you isolate yourself by the beach. It consists of a beautiful garden, a pool, a bar, and a deck right by the sea. Come to Isolé to disconnect, relax, dance, drink, and enjoy a great Summer experience!
5. Greenhouse Café And Bar
This beautiful place is located on a hill in Edde village (3 minutes away from Batroun). It has a unique and colorful design, with greenery everywhere! As for their menu, they serve pizzas, Brushettas, salads, and a big selection of alcoholic drinks.
P.S. They also host live band performances, so make sure to check out their calendar.
6. Danys Beach Restaurant
Here’s another popular spot to visit in Batroun, known for its colorful design, Lebanese and seafood menu, and beautiful views. Make sure to add it to your bucket list!
7. Colonel Beer
Colonel Beer is a microbrewery and distillery that makes delicious craft beer and spirits. It’s also the home of a beach bar, restaurant, guesthouse, water sports, and bicycle rental. Try their wide variety of beers while enjoying the best sunset over Batroun!
8. Bar Del Mar
This beach bar is your go-to place for an amazing sunset experience! They offer mouthwatering cocktails, savory dishes, and beautiful sea views.
Further Reading: Click here for more sunset destinations to visit in Lebanon.
Batroun’s Getaways
Enjoy a memorable stay at one of these top getaways!
1. Casa de Thoum
Located in the village of Thoum (5 minutes away from Batroun), Casa De Thoum is the ideal place for a romantic staycation with your loved one! It features 9 rooms (click here to explore the rooms), an outdoor pool, a Jacuzzi, a restaurant, and a beautiful garden. (P.S. Breakfast included).
2. Arcades de Bahsa
This guest-house consists of 3 beautifully designed and spacious apartments. A special thing about this place is its location in the heart of the Old Souk and at walking distance from the beach, making it close to all the top attractions in Batroun!
3. Blue Marlin Batroun
Located only 20 meters away from the beach, Blue Marlin provides luxurious accommodation and positive vibes in a zen atmosphere. They have different apartments to choose from, each one is fully equipped and has its unique design (Click here to explore the apartments).
4. Auberge de la Mer
This luxury boutique hotel, dating back to the 19th century, separates the old souks from the Phoenician port. It offers 9 high-end rooms with a stylish vintage design. (Check out their rooms here). Also, don’t forget to try their lovely French restaurant!
5. Villa Paradiso
Located in the heart of Batroun’s old souk, Villa Paradiso has beautifully designed rooms, an Italian restaurant, a concept store, and lots of facilities. This guesthouse is guaranteed to give you a memorable experience!
6. Batroun Village Club
Located 5 minutes away from Batroun, this resort is the ideal destination for a family getaway. They have different types of accommodations to stay the night (Click here for more information). As for their facilities, you’ll find an indoor and outdoor pool, a spa, a restaurant, a gym, horseback riding, a basketball court, and many more activities!
7. Beit Al Batroun
Located in the village of Thoum, this guesthouse is the ideal place for a peaceful escape from the city. They have 5 double rooms in total (3 of them with a sea view and 2 with a garden view). They also offer a delicious homemade breakfast!
Further Reading: Check out our guide to the best guesthouses to visit in Lebanon!
Beach Resorts
Here’s a list of our favorite beach destinations in Batroun!
1. Bahsa Beach
Bahsa beach is a well-known public beach, beloved by locals as well as tourists. It’s a great spot to swim and relax by the sea; it’s also close to restaurants, guesthouses, and other attractions!
2. Blu Bay
Welcome to Blu Bay, a wonderful beach club in the heart of Batroun! Beside their beautiful beach, they feature a seafood restaurant, a cocktail bar, water sports, and a nightclub.
3. Bulters Beach Club
If you’re looking for a luxurious beach club away from the crowds, then here’s an excellent place for you! Enjoy a relaxing day by the pool or take a dip in the turquoise sea. You can also come at sunset for a delicious cocktail while enjoying the beautiful views.
4. San Stephano Resort
San Stephano is a great destination for families looking to spend the day by the beach. This resort features 2 pools, a beach, a sunset bar, indoor and outdoor venues, a children’s playground, a dock and Marina, and a seafood and Lebanese restaurant.
5. Sawary Resort
Here’s another family-friendly resort in Batroun, featuring a pool, beach, restaurant, children’s playground, and water sports facilities. You can also stay the night at one of their bungalows, hotel rooms, or chalets.
6. Orchid Beach Resort
Sip on your favorite drink and chill by the infinity pool at this luxury beach club in Batroun. You can also book your private Jacuzzi for the ultimate relaxing experience!
7. La Taiga Resort
La Taiga is your go-to place for awesome beach parties and a great atmosphere! Grab some drinks by the pool and enjoy an amazing summer experience. You can also stay the night at one of their bungalows or visit their yummy seafood restaurant.
Batroun is a must-visit destination in Lebanon! From its multiple attractions to restaurants, bars, and beaches, you’ll surely have a memorable experience.
So make your bucket list and discover as many places as you can to get the most out of this iconic city!
