Beiteddine Palace, Baabda Travel Guide

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Discover Lebanon's architectural gem: a 19th-century palace with stunning courtyards, museums, and a vibrant cultural festival in the Chouf Mountains.

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Beiteddine Palace

Nestled in the Chouf Mountains, Beiteddine Palace is a stunning 19th-century palace showcasing Lebanese architecture with Ottoman, Arab, and European influences. Built by Emir Bashir Shihab II between 1788 and 1818, it served as his residence and a center for political activities. Today, it's a major cultural and historical landmark, attracting tourists with its beautiful courtyards, museums, and the annual Beiteddine Festival.

A brief summary to Beiteddine Palace

Tuesday 9 am-6:30 pm
Wednesday 9 am-6:30 pm
Thursday 9 am-6:30 pm
Friday 9 am-6:30 pm
Saturday 9 am-6:30 pm
Sunday 9 am-6:30 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Beiteddine Palace.

Check the opening hours before visiting, as they may vary depending on the season.
Dress modestly to respect local customs.
Wear comfortable walking shoes to explore the palace's courtyards and gardens.
Visit during the spring or early summer to enjoy the gardens in full bloom.
Consider visiting during the Beiteddine Festival for live performances and cultural events.

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Explore Beiteddine Palace on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Beiteddine Palace, mapped for you.

Getting There

Car

From Beirut, take the Beirut-Damascus Highway (Route 1) south. Follow signs towards Deir el-Qamar and Beiteddine. The drive is approximately 45 km and takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic. Parking is available near the palace.
Taxi

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Careem or Uber are readily available in Beirut. A taxi ride from Beirut to Beiteddine Palace typically takes around 35 minutes and costs approximately $55-$65. Confirm the fare before starting your journey.
Public Transport

From Beirut's Cola area, take a bus to Boq'ata in the Chouf Mountains. The bus fare is around 4,000 LBP. Ask the driver to drop you off at the roundabout for Beiteddine. From the roundabout, it's a 2 km walk downhill to the palace. Alternatively, taxis may be available at the roundabout for around 2,000 LBP per person.

Discover more about Beiteddine Palace

Beiteddine Palace, meaning "House of Faith", is a magnificent illustration of early 19th-century Lebanese architecture. Commissioned by Emir Bashir Shihab II, the palace was constructed over three decades, starting in 1788, as both a residence and a symbol of his power. The palace's design blends Arabic, Ottoman, and European baroque styles, reflecting the diverse influences of the region.The palace complex consists of several key sections, including Al-Midan, a vast courtyard used for festivals and gatherings; Dar Al-Wousta, the inner court with a beautiful fountain; and Dar El-Harim, the private apartments of the Emir. The Hammams, or Turkish baths, are decorated with arcades and stained glass windows. The palace also houses museums, including one with an extensive collection of Byzantine mosaics and the Rashid Karami Archeological and Ethnographic Museum.Visitors can explore the opulent rooms, wander through terraced gardens, and appreciate the intricate details of the architecture. The palace provides a glimpse into Lebanon's rich history and cultural heritage. The Beiteddine Festival, held annually since 1985, transforms the palace into a vibrant venue for music, art, and cultural performances. Beiteddine Palace is also used as the summer residence of the President of Lebanon.