Background

Beqaa Valley: Lebanon's Fertile Heartland

Explore Lebanon's Beqaa Valley: Ancient ruins, fertile lands, and world-class wineries await in this historic destination.

4.4

The Beqaa Valley, a fertile expanse nestled between the Mount Lebanon and Anti-Lebanon mountain ranges, is the agricultural heartland of Lebanon. Rich in history and natural beauty, it boasts ancient Roman ruins, renowned wineries, and picturesque landscapes.

A brief summary to Beqaa Valley

  • LB

Local tips

  • Visit the Baalbek Roman ruins early in the morning to avoid crowds and the midday heat.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the archaeological sites and hiking trails.
  • Sample local Lebanese cuisine at traditional restaurants in the valley.
  • Book wine tasting tours in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Check local travel advisories and safety recommendations before visiting archaeological sites or border areas.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Beirut, take the public bus line ML1 from the Palace of Justice roundabout in Adlieh towards Chtoura. The journey costs approximately 200,000 LBP. From Chtoura, local vans and buses are available to reach other destinations within the Beqaa Valley. Prices vary depending on the destination, ranging from 250,000 to 400,000 LBP to Chtoura.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from Beirut to the Beqaa Valley, with a ride taking approximately 1 hour and 11 minutes. The cost ranges from $90 to $120 USD. Taxi services like CTaxi offer transparent, kilometer-based fares.

  • Driving

    Driving from Beirut to the Beqaa Valley takes approximately 1 hour and 11 minutes via the Beirut-Damascus highway. The distance is approximately 83 km. The cost of driving, including fuel, is estimated to be $9 to $14 USD. Note that there may be some tolls on the highway.

Unlock the Best of Beqaa Valley

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Beqaa Valley

The Beqaa Valley, also known as Bekaa Valley, is a significant and fertile valley in eastern Lebanon. Situated approximately 30 km east of Beirut, it lies between the Mount Lebanon to the west and the Anti-Lebanon Mountains to the east. This valley forms the northeasternmost extension of the Jordan Rift Valley. Historically, the Beqaa Valley has been a vital agricultural region since Roman times, serving as a major source of grain for the Levant. Today, it remains Lebanon's most important farming area, known for its vineyards, orchards, and fields that produce a variety of fruits, vegetables, and, of course, wine. The valley's climate, with wet, snowy winters and dry, warm summers, combined with an average altitude of 1,000 m above sea level, makes it ideal for viticulture. The valley is dotted with various landmarks, including the world-renowned Baalbek Roman ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage site. These temples, dating back to ancient Roman times, stand as testaments to the region's rich historical tapestry. Other attractions include the Ummayad Ruins in Anjar, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the scenic Qaraoun Lake. For those interested in outdoor activities, the valley offers hiking trails, biking routes through vineyards, and horseback riding amidst picturesque landscapes. Wine enthusiasts can explore numerous wineries, such as Château Ksara and Château Musar, and savor local wines while enjoying the breathtaking views. The Beqaa Valley has been influenced by various cultures and civilizations throughout history. Today, it continues to be a melting pot of traditions, contributing to Lebanon's diverse cultural heritage.

Popular Experiences near Beqaa Valley

Popular Hotels near Beqaa Valley

Select Currency