Place de l'Etoile, Beirut Travel Guide

4 (272)

Explore Beirut's iconic star-shaped square, Place de l'Étoile: a blend of history, culture, and stunning architecture in the heart of the city.

Home
Travel Guides
Lebanon
Beirut
Place de l'Etoile

Place de l'Étoile, also known as Nejmeh Square, is a historic star-shaped square in downtown Beirut. Designed in the 1920s by French colonial authorities, it symbolizes Beirut's modernization. Surrounded by significant political and religious buildings, it's a vibrant hub reflecting the city's resilience.

A brief summary to Place de l'Etoile

VGW3+HRX, Beirut, LB
Click to display

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Place de l'Etoile.

Take a leisurely stroll around the square to admire the architecture and soak in the atmosphere.
Visit the Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral to see its Byzantine architecture and intricate mosaics.
Check out the Rolex Clock Tower, an iconic landmark in the center of the square.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Martyrs' Square

تمثال جبران خليل جبران

Zaitunay Bay

National Museum of Beirut

Mohammad Al Amin Mosque

Explore Place de l'Etoile on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Place de l'Etoile, mapped for you.

Unlock the Best of Place de l'Etoile

Buy tickets

No tickets available

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

No tours available

Getting There

Walking

Place de l'Étoile is located in the heart of downtown Beirut and is easily accessible on foot from many nearby points of interest. From the Beirut Souks, head east towards the Lebanese Parliament building. The square is a short walk from major landmarks and hotels in the central district.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Beirut and are a convenient way to reach Place de l'Étoile. A short taxi ride from areas like Hamra or Gemmayzeh will typically cost between $19-23 and take approximately 3-7 minutes, depending on traffic. Chouf Taxi is one of the local taxi services. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

Discover more about Place de l'Etoile

Place de l'Étoile, or Nejmeh Square (Star Square), is the central square in downtown Beirut, Lebanon. Designed in the 1920s during the French Mandate period, the square's star shape was inspired by the Place de l'Étoile in Paris, intended to symbolize Beirut's aspirations for modernity and European influence.The square is surrounded by a mix of architectural styles, including neoclassical and Art Deco buildings. Key landmarks include the Lebanese Parliament, Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral dating back to 1772, and the iconic Rolex Clock Tower, a gift from a Lebanese-Mexican businessman in 1934.Throughout its history, Place de l'Étoile has been a focal point for cultural and political activities, witnessing numerous protests, celebrations, and historical events. After being a battlefield during the Lebanese Civil War, it was renovated and reopened in 2003, becoming a popular pedestrian space with restaurants and cafes. Today, Place de l'Étoile is a must-visit destination, offering a blend of history, culture, and modern energy.

More to explore near Place de l'Etoile

Explore More of Beirut

File:A sunset on the Mediterranean sea, Pigeon Rocks, Beirut, Lebanon.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Looking beyond Place de l'Etoile? Discover Beirut for broader travel guides, local hot-spots, and regional highlights.

Explore Beirut

Discover the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of Saint George Maronite Cathedral, a symbol of Beirut's rich Christian heritage.

Discover the beauty and history of the Al-Abed Clock Tower, a stunning landmark in Beirut's Parliament Square that symbolizes the city's rich cultural heritage.