The Egg Beirut
An iconic oval cinema and former commercial hub in Downtown Beirut, symbolizing the city's architectural past and resilience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
The Egg Beirut
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic oval cinema and former commercial hub in Downtown Beirut, symbolizing the city's architectural past and resilience.
"Beirut is a city of contrasts, blending history with vibrant modern life. A true bucket list city for me."
🎯 Embrace Local Flavors
Don't miss trying traditional Lebanese dishes like hummus, falafel, and shawarma. Seek out local eateries for authentic tastes.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Beirut is best explored on foot. Pack comfortable shoes to navigate the bustling streets and discover hidden gems.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Egg (City Center)
Downtown Beirut
An iconic architectural marvel, this oval-shaped cinema and former commercial hub is a symbol of Beirut's past grandeur.
Street Art by Ashekman
Various locations, Downtown Beirut
Discover vibrant and thought-provoking graffiti by the renowned Lebanese artist duo, Ashekman.
Authentic Lebanese Breakfast
El Soussi, Beirut
Experience traditional Lebanese breakfast dishes in a charming, old-school setting. A true taste of local life.
Rawsheh Corniche Views
Raouche, Beirut
Enjoy breathtaking sea views and the iconic Pigeon Rocks from this lively waterfront promenade.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Vibe
Plan for the Heat
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Embrace Local Flavors
Don't miss trying traditional Lebanese dishes like hummus, falafel, and shawarma. Seek out local eateries for authentic tastes. +1
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Beirut is best explored on foot. Pack comfortable shoes to navigate the bustling streets and discover hidden gems.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, carry water to stay refreshed while sightseeing.
📸 Capture the Art
Keep an eye out for incredible street art, especially by Ashekman, that adds color to the city.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Embrace Local Flavors
Don't miss trying traditional Lebanese dishes like hummus, falafel, and shawarma. Seek out local eateries for authentic tastes. +1
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Beirut is best explored on foot. Pack comfortable shoes to navigate the bustling streets and discover hidden gems.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, carry water to stay refreshed while sightseeing.
📸 Capture the Art
Keep an eye out for incredible street art, especially by Ashekman, that adds color to the city.
💰 Bargain Smartly
In souks and smaller shops, polite bargaining is common. Know your prices and enjoy the interaction.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by Beirut's vibrant energy, rich history, and incredible culinary scene. The city's resilience and the warmth of its people leave a lasting impression. While some find navigating the city challenging, the unique blend of old and new architecture, coupled with stunning street art, makes for an unforgettable experience.
"“City Palace” cinema, or “The Egg” (referring to its oval shape), is part of an integrated building that was called “City Center,” or “The Dome,” and it was classified as the largest large commercial building in Beirut during its construction in 1965 to represent the first commercial mall in the Middle East.
The building at that time contained escalators, in addition to the “Maatouq” shop, known for making potato slices, and “Al-Samadi” sweets, which was famous for its kunafa and the glass door of its shop that opened electronically. The Samadi family and the Salha family participated in the construction of “City Center” Beirut in the year 1965, which was designed by engineer Joseph Philip Karam, who decided to construct a huge building with five floors underground to be the first “mall” in the Middle East. It was scheduled to consist, in addition to the egg, It consists of two towers that were supposed to include a commercial center, a cinema, and offices. The cinema and theater, which is shaped like an egg, was designed to contain 1,000 seats. Its width is 24 meters, while its length is estimated at 11 meters. In 1975, the building was transformed into a contact line separating the Bechara El Khoury area from Al-Dabbas Square."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY) is the main gateway. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are readily available from the airport to the city center.
While Beirut has a public bus system, it can be confusing for tourists. Taxis and ride-sharing apps like Bolt are more convenient and widely used.
Downtown Beirut is very walkable. For longer distances, taxis or ride-sharing apps are recommended.
If arriving by plane, try to secure a window seat on the left side for stunning aerial views of the city and coastline.
Yes, taxis are abundant. It's advisable to agree on a fare before starting your journey or ensure the meter is used. Ride-sharing apps offer a more transparent pricing system.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Egg itself is an architectural landmark and part of the urban landscape. While it was a cinema, access to the interior may be limited or require specific event tickets. Exploring the exterior is free.
Opening hours vary greatly by attraction. Museums and historical sites typically open in the morning and close in the late afternoon. Restaurants and cafes often stay open late. It's best to check specific venues.
The Rawsheh Corniche is a public space and is free to access. Enjoy the views and atmosphere at your leisure.
For popular breakfast spots or dinner reservations, especially on weekends, booking in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment. +1
The exterior of The Egg can be viewed at any time. Access to any internal spaces or events would depend on current operations and schedules.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Egg is located in Downtown Beirut, an area undergoing regeneration. You can explore nearby streets, discover Ashekman's street art, and experience the city's blend of old and new architecture. +1
Beirut is a foodie paradise! Don't miss traditional Lebanese mezze, grilled meats (like shawarma and farouj), manakish for breakfast, and delicious sweets like kunafa. +2
Wander through Downtown Beirut and the Mar Mikhael district. Look for the distinctive style of Ashekman's murals. Guided street art tours are also available.
Absolutely! From the Pigeon Rocks at Rawsheh to the vibrant street art and the unique architecture of The Egg, Beirut offers countless picturesque spots. +1
Beirut is known for its energetic and resilient spirit. It's a city that buzzes with life, offering a mix of historical charm and modern dynamism.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
El Soussi is highly recommended for an authentic old-school Lebanese breakfast experience. Falamanki in Raouche also offers a great breakfast with a view. +1
For Waynon el djej (chicken wings), Farouj Al Shams is a top pick. For traditional chickpeas with yogurt, look for places serving this classic dish. +1
Dining in Beirut can range from very affordable street food and local eateries to more upscale restaurants. You can find delicious meals to fit various budgets. +1
Don't leave without trying kunafa from Al-Samadi, a famous sweet shop. Other popular options include baklava and various pastries.
Yes, Lebanese cuisine is rich in vegetarian options, with a wide variety of mezze like hummus, baba ghanoush, tabbouleh, and falafel.
📸 📸 Photography
Iconic spots include The Egg, the Pigeon Rocks at Rawsheh, vibrant street art, and the bustling souks. The coastline offers stunning sunset views. +1
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for cityscapes and street photography. A wide-angle lens can capture the scale of architecture like The Egg. Don't forget a portable charger for your phone!
Generally, photography is allowed in public spaces. However, always be respectful when photographing people and ask for permission if necessary. Avoid sensitive government buildings.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing the city's vibrant energy.
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas, especially around airports and government buildings. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When it comes to food, Lebanese cuisine has many kid-friendly options like grilled chicken, rice, and various pastries. Look for restaurants that offer a relaxed atmosphere. Planning your days around cooler parts of the day and ensuring easy access to snacks and hydration will make the trip more enjoyable for everyone.
💰 Budget Travelers
Utilize ride-sharing apps or negotiate taxi fares to save on transportation. Walking is free and the best way to discover hidden gems. Many of Beirut's most captivating sights, like the street art and the Rawsheh Corniche, are free to enjoy.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Head to the Rawsheh Corniche for breathtaking coastal views and the iconic Pigeon Rocks, particularly stunning at sunset. Explore the bustling markets and historic streets to capture the essence of daily life. A versatile lens and a good eye for detail will serve you well in this visually rich city.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Legacy of The Egg
During its heyday, the 'City Center' housed notable establishments like the 'Maatouq' shop for potato slices and 'Al-Samadi' sweets, famous for its kunafa and electronically opening glass doors. The building's unique oval shape, measuring 24 meters wide and 11 meters long, made it a distinctive landmark. Unfortunately, the Lebanese Civil War in 1975 transformed the building into a dividing line, impacting its original purpose and accessibility.
Today, The Egg stands as a powerful symbol of Beirut's past aspirations and resilience. While its original function as a cinema may be dormant, its architectural significance remains, drawing interest from those exploring the city's history and urban landscape. It's a poignant reminder of Beirut's architectural heritage and the impact of historical events on its urban fabric.
Exploring Beirut's Vibrant Street Art Scene
Discovering this art is an adventure in itself. Wandering through neighborhoods like Downtown Beirut, Mar Mikhael, and Gemmayzeh will reveal a diverse range of murals, stencils, and graffiti. Each piece offers a glimpse into the local culture, creativity, and the spirit of the city. It's a fantastic way to connect with Beirut beyond the typical tourist attractions.
To truly appreciate Beirut's street art, consider joining a guided tour. Local guides can provide context, history, and insights into the artists' intentions, helping you understand the narratives woven into the urban canvas. Even without a tour, simply exploring with an open mind and a good camera will lead to incredible discoveries.
A Culinary Journey Through Beirut
For breakfast, traditional spots like El Soussi offer an authentic experience with dishes like manakish (flatbreads with toppings), foul (fava beans), and labneh. As the day progresses, the city comes alive with the aroma of grilled meats. Don't miss out on 'Waynon el djej' (chicken wings) from renowned eateries like Farouj Al Shams, or the classic 'farouj' (roasted chicken). Street food, such as falafel and shawarma, is also a must-try for a quick and delicious bite.
No culinary exploration of Beirut is complete without indulging in its sweet treats. Al-Samadi is famous for its kunafa, a cheese-filled pastry soaked in sweet syrup. The city also offers a variety of baklava, halva, and other delightful pastries. To truly immerse yourself, explore local markets and ask for recommendations – the best culinary discoveries are often found off the beaten path.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit