St. Nicolas Stairs: Beirut's Artistic Ascent
Experience Beirut's vibrant art scene and rich history on the iconic St. Nicolas Stairs, a cultural landmark connecting Gemmayzeh and Achrafieh.
The St. Nicolas Stairs, also known as L'Escalier de L'Art, is a prominent landmark in Beirut, Lebanon, connecting Gouraud Street in Gemmayzeh with Sursock Street in the Achrafieh district. This 500-meter stairway with 125 steps is not only a vital pedestrian link but also a vibrant center for art and culture, hosting open-air exhibitions and community events.
A brief summary to St. Nicolas Stairs
- VGV8+H5P, Beirut, LB
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography and a more peaceful experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the stairs can be steep and uneven in places.
- Explore the surrounding neighborhoods to discover hidden cafes, shops, and art galleries.
- Take your time to appreciate the murals and street art, each telling a unique story of Beirut.
Getting There
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Walking
From Gouraud Street in Gemmayzeh, locate the base of the stairs near Saint Nicholas Church. The stairs ascend towards Rue Sursock in Achrafieh, providing a direct pedestrian route. The climb is moderately strenuous due to the 125 steps. There are no costs associated with walking the stairs.
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Public Transport
If arriving by bus or shared taxi ('service') to Gemmayzeh, walk towards the eastern end of Gouraud Street. Look for the clearly marked stairs near Saint Nicholas Church. Bus fares typically cost around 75,000 LBP , while a shared taxi ('service') ride costs approximately 150,000 LBP. From the Mar Mikhael area, you can take a short service (shared taxi) to Gemmayze for around LL150,000.
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Taxi
Taxis can drop you off directly at either the top or bottom of the stairs on Rue Gouraud or Rue Sursock. A short taxi ride within Beirut typically costs around 600,000 LBP , but confirm the fare before starting your journey. Note that there is no designated parking directly at the venue.
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