There are so many things to do in Beirut!
From its vibrant culture to its rich history, Beirut has a lot to offer! Known as the city that never sleeps, the capital of Lebanon is home to some of the most remarkable places, fanciest restaurants, and the best nightlife in the region.
Besides the city’s well-known attractions, it has some lesser-known sights that many visitors may not know about, but are definitely worth a visit!
In this guide, we’ll take you on a tour of some of the best “hidden spots” in the city, including restaurants, shops, and secret gardens. Each of these places offers a unique experience that is sure to leave you in awe.
Without further ado, let us dive into the hidden gems of Beirut!
#1 L’appartement
We’ll start our tour in this charming hidden garden in Achrafieh that will make you forget that you’re in Beirut! It is the ideal place to chill with your friends while enjoying delicious drinks and bites. We also recommend it for a cheese and wine night with your loved one!
P.S. Open Monday to Saturday from 5:00 PM to 12:30 PM. Pet Friendly.
#2 Barzakh Bookshop
Our second stop is at Barzakh, a used bookshop hidden in the heart of Hamra. It provides a quiet escape during the day (which makes it perfect for work or study) and hosts local bands and live performances at night!
P.S. You can buy your favorite books at Barzakh for affordable prices.
#3 Curl Coffee Shop
Curl is one of our favorite coffee shops in Beirut! It’s a charming small café in Badaro where you can enjoy a cup of coffee while devouring the pages of a great novel. They have a vast selection of books that you can read or buy, making it the ideal spot for bookworms!
#4 Hole In The Wall
This beloved resto-bar in Achrafieh has been open since 1999, and is known for its splendid garden and live band performances! You can visit for brunch, lunch, or afternoon drinks in their garden, or attend their live performances at night. (Make sure to check out their calendar).
#5 Orenda
Orenda is a plant-based café hidden in one of Mar Mikhael’s alleyways, with a charming interior and a beautiful garden. They serve coffee, delicious cocktails, and a big selection of Vegan dishes that you should definitely try!
P.S. The place is pet friendly, so don’t hesitate to bring your pets.
#6 The Grand Meshmosh Hotel
You’ll find The Grand Meshmosh Hotel on the St Nicolas stairs in Gemmayze. This guesthouse provides an amazing getaway for travelers looking to stay in Beirut and explore the city. Their aim is to create a sociable space between travelers and Lebanese of various backgrounds.
Tap here to learn more about their rooms and prices.
#7 L’Autre Bistro
Hidden in Makhoul street in Hamra, this cozy French bistro is perfect for a date night in Beirut (especially during Winter). The place is divided into multiple rooms, each with its unique style and charm. As for their menu, they serve pizzas, salads, risotto, and steaks (Don’t forget to ask about their specials).
Further Reading: Looking for more date night spots? Here are 15 restaurants for a date night in Beirut.
#8 Cluster 001
Cluster 001 is a concept store & café in Mar Mikhael, characterized by its greenery, rustic decor, and stunning mural! It’s a great spot to relax and recharge in the heart of Beirut while enjoying your daily dose of caffeine. They also sell local eco-friendly artisanal creations.
#9 Kawaii
Craving something sweet? If yes, then this cute coffee shop in Monot will definitely satisfy your sweet tooth! Their specialty is Japanese Cheesecakes, so it’s undoubtedly something that you should give a try!
Further Reading: Tap here for the best dessert places in Lebanon.
#10 Chico Records
Music lovers and collectors, this place is for you! Chico Records is your go-to spot in Hamra to find everything you need in English and Arabic records! It has been open since 1964 and sells a vast collection of Vinyl and related accessories.
#11 Mim Museum
The Mim Museum is a private museum located at USJ university in Sodeco, created by Mr. Salim Edde who started building up this collection in 1997. It showcases more than 1800 minerals, that represent around 400 distinct species from over 70 different countries. Due to the diversity and caliber of its minerals, it is today regarded as one of the finest private collections in the world!
🕛 Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 12:30 AM and 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM (Tuesday to Sunday)
N.B. Entrance to the museum is free of charge for people under 18 and university students with a valid registration card.
#12 Union Marks
Union Marks is the perfect destination for those looking for a sophisticated and trendy drinking experience in Beirut. What once was an old textile factory became a midtown bar in Bourj Hammoud, with an eccentric interior and a charming garden.
The bar menu is expertly crafted, offering a wide range of cocktails that are as delicious as they are visually stunning. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic cocktail or a creative and unique concoction, you’ll surely find something to your liking at this stylish bar.
#13 Mavia Bakery
Head to the end of The Alleway in Gemmayze to find a small bakery worth visiting! Mavia is an artisan bakery and social enterprise that focuses on baking Sourdough bread. They produce bread, cakes, cookies, and bagels, all from locally sourced ingredients. Check out the video below to know more about their story.
You can visit this lovely bakery to buy freshly baked goods and also for brunch, dessert, and wood-fired pizzas every Friday night!
🕛 Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (Tuesday to Saturday).
#14 Beit Beirut
Beit Beirut is a museum and urban cultural center that stands as a testament to Beirut’s tumultuous history, in particular the Lebanese Civil War. Labeled the “Yellow House“, this building is situated in the heart of Sodeco, at the former “green line” intersection that divided Beirut during the war. It was then restored in a way to preserve its “war architecture” on its external facade.
Today, the building serves as a cultural landmark and memorial to the city’s past, showcasing art exhibits and cultural events on topics such as urban development and social justice.
Beirut never ceases to impress!
From charming cafés to museums and hidden gardens, there is something for everyone in this vibrant and diverse city.
Its hidden gems are often overlooked in favor of its famous landmarks, but they offer a unique and authentic glimpse into the city’s culture and history.
Now back to you. Share with us your favorite hidden spots that you’d like to be featured, we would love to add them to this list!
