Baabda Presidential Palace: Seat of Lebanese Governance
Visit the Baabda Presidential Palace, the official residence of Lebanon's President, offering a glimpse into the country's political heart and history.
Baabda Palace, also known as the Presidential Palace, is the official residence of the President of Lebanon. Constructed in 1956, the palace is perched on a hill in the town of Baabda, offering panoramic views of Beirut and the Mediterranean Sea. The first president to reside here was President Charles Helou. Throughout its history, Baabda Palace has been a central stage for Lebanese politics. During the turbulent years of 1988-1990, it served as the residence for Lebanon's alternative Prime Minister, Michel Aoun. The palace suffered damage during military conflicts but was restored in the early 1990s. Today, it alternates with the Grand Serail as the venue for ministerial meetings. The palace grounds feature multiple buildings, halls for state functions, and landscaped gardens adorned with fountains. While interior access is often limited, the exterior provides ample opportunities for memorable photographs and leisurely strolls. The palace is surrounded by the Ministry of Defense and various military posts, forming a secure administrative complex. Visitors interested in seeing the Presidential Palace and learning about the activities of the President may be able to take advantage of free guided tours that are organized on the first Saturday of every month.
Local tips
- Check the official presidency website for information on guided tours, which are typically held on the first Saturday of each month.
- Be aware that security is tight around the palace; respect all security measures and instructions.
- Combine your visit with a trip to other nearby attractions in Baabda, such as the Baabda Serail or the Abou Al Rachid Citadel.
A brief summary to Baabda Presidential Palace
- RGRQ+MQX, Baabda, LB
- +9615900033
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Beirut, you can take a public bus or a shared taxi ('service') towards Baabda. Ask the driver to drop you off near the Baabda Presidential Palace. From the drop-off point, it's approximately a 5-10 minute walk to the palace. Bus fares within Beirut and its suburbs typically cost around $1 per ride. A new bus route from Nahr El Mot to Baabda was introduced in August 2024.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Beirut and can take you directly to the Baabda Presidential Palace. A taxi ride from Beirut to Baabda typically takes around 10 minutes and costs between $24-$30. Taxi fares in Baabda start at $4.0 USD, with each KM priced at $1.0 USD. Be sure to agree on the fare before starting your journey.
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Driving
If driving, head towards Baabda Road and follow the signs for the Baabda Presidential Palace. The palace is located at coordinates RGRQ+MQX. There is generally parking available nearby, but it can fill up quickly, especially during official events. Driving from Beirut to Baabda takes approximately 10 minutes.
Attractions Nearby to Baabda Presidential Palace
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PilotParkingLoveServices
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Lebanon Mountain Trail Association
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L’abeille D'Or
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Camille Chamoun's statue
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The Backyard - Hazmieh
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Alrohban Natural Park غابة خندق الرهبان
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St Georges Church
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Jelly Beans Park
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Matignon Art Gallery - Paintings and prints
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Waves Aqua Park
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Place De Bruxelles "Beit Mery"
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Houmal’s Public Park
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Matar Mosque - مسجد مطر
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Boulevard Antoine Nicolas Chakhtoura
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The Silk Museum - Bsous
Landmarks nearby to Baabda Presidential Palace
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Baabda Presidential Palace
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Old Ottoman Water Fountain
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Quadrangle
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Maison Jamhouri
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Grand Orient Of Lebanon الشرق الاكبر اللبناني
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Lebanon SightSeeing
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El Qabou
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Lebanese Army Martyrs Monument
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Nabaa Spring Tower
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Fun Planet - Kids Area
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Beit Beirut - Museum and Urban Cultural Center
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A Taste of Lebanon: Tour Guide by Vartan
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Dr. Charles Malek Monument
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Alternative Beirut
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Kempinski Summerland