Byblos Old Port
A timeless working harbor where ancient history meets the Mediterranean Sea, offering stunning views and a tranquil escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for photos
Byblos Old Port
Best Time
Golden hour for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A timeless working harbor where ancient history meets the Mediterranean Sea, offering stunning views and a tranquil escape.
"Byblos Port is such a cool place to visit. The history here is amazing, and the views of the Mediterranean Sea are just stunning."
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Find a waterfront spot for stunning sunset views. Perfect for photos and a romantic evening.
🛥️ Take a Boat Ride
Enjoy a short boat trip for a unique perspective of the city from the sea.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Working Harbor
Byblos Old Port
Charming fishing boats bobbing in ancient waters, a picturesque scene steeped in history.
Ancient Ruins
Adjacent to the port
Explore remnants of civilizations that have called Byblos home for thousands of years.
Mediterranean Sunsets
Waterfront cafes and restaurants
Witness the sky ablaze with color over the sea – a truly unforgettable spectacle.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Ancient Charm
Sunset Spectacle
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Find a waterfront spot for stunning sunset views. Perfect for photos and a romantic evening.
🛥️ Take a Boat Ride
Enjoy a short boat trip for a unique perspective of the city from the sea.
🚶♀️ Explore the Old City
Don't just stay at the port; wander into the charming old city streets.
🍽️ Dine with a View
Many restaurants offer delicious seafood with picturesque port views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Find a waterfront spot for stunning sunset views. Perfect for photos and a romantic evening.
🛥️ Take a Boat Ride
Enjoy a short boat trip for a unique perspective of the city from the sea.
🚶♀️ Explore the Old City
Don't just stay at the port; wander into the charming old city streets.
🍽️ Dine with a View
Many restaurants offer delicious seafood with picturesque port views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Byblos Old Port's stunning Mediterranean views, rich history, and tranquil atmosphere. The working harbor and opportunities for sunset viewing are frequently highlighted as major draws. While generally positive, some mention that certain areas can become crowded during peak times.
"Byblos Port is such a cool place to visit. The history here is amazing, and the views of the Mediterranean Sea are just stunning. It’s perfect for a relaxing walk, enjoying the sea breeze, and taking in the beautiful scenery.
The port is lined with charming boats, and there’s a really laid-back vibe. There are also some great seafood restaurants nearby where you can grab a delicious meal with a view. The sunsets here are absolutely gorgeous, making it a perfect spot for some memorable photos."
Shira ib
"Byblos is one of the oldest settlements in the world. Its working harbour, surrounded by old fishermen's cottages (now mostly cafés and restaurants) is beautiful and well kept.
It's a great place to come and find a nice bar and watch the sun set.
Highly recommend spending some time here. It's peaceful and pretty."
D
"Byblos is one of the oldest cities in the world. Its port has some old historical ruines of the old city of byblos. Moreover, boat owners are ready to take you from this port into the sea to have a look at the city from the Mediterranean Sea. In addition to that, you can walk around the area near the fisherman's market and catch a sunset from there. I advise you if it is your first time visiting byblos, to discover every place around the city because you will like it."
Antoun Boustani
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Byblos Old Port is easily accessible. If driving from Beirut, take the coastal highway north. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available. Parking can be found near the port area, though it might get busy during peak hours.
Absolutely! Byblos Old Port is a fantastic day trip from Beirut, offering a glimpse into ancient history and beautiful coastal scenery. It's a must-visit for anyone exploring Lebanon.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The port itself is generally free to wander. However, access to specific archaeological sites within Byblos might require an entrance fee. It's best to check on-site for current ticketing information.
The port is a public area and is accessible at most times. However, the surrounding shops, cafes, and restaurants have their own operating hours, typically open from morning until late evening.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can stroll along the harbor, admire the fishing boats, explore ancient ruins, enjoy a meal at a waterfront restaurant, and witness stunning Mediterranean sunsets. Boat rides are also available. +1
Yes, it's a photographer's paradise! The combination of ancient history, the working port, and the beautiful sea views, especially during sunset, offers endless photographic opportunities.
Yes, local boat owners often offer short trips from the port, giving you a unique perspective of Byblos from the sea. It's a great way to see the coastline.
The atmosphere is incredibly peaceful and historic. It's a place where you can relax, enjoy the sea breeze, and feel connected to thousands of years of history.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Definitely! The area around the port is lined with charming cafes and restaurants, many offering delicious seafood with beautiful views of the Mediterranean.
You can expect fresh seafood, traditional Lebanese cuisine, and international options. Many places offer a relaxed dining experience with stunning sea views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many of the waterfront restaurants are family-friendly and offer a relaxed atmosphere where children can enjoy a meal with a view. The relatively flat terrain around the port makes it easy for strollers, and the overall vibe is peaceful, allowing for a more enjoyable experience for everyone. Consider visiting earlier in the day to avoid the largest crowds.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Utilize the golden hour for the most flattering light. Experiment with wide-angle lenses for panoramic views and telephoto lenses to isolate details of the boats or ruins. The charming alleyways of the old city also offer unique street photography opportunities. Remember to bring extra batteries and memory cards – you'll want to capture every moment!
❤️ Couples and Romantics
Consider taking a short boat ride together for a unique shared experience, or simply find a cozy spot at a cafe to enjoy a drink and watch the world go by. The historical significance of the location adds a layer of depth to the romantic experience, making it a truly special place to create lasting memories.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: The History of Byblos
The working harbor itself is a living piece of history. Unlike many ancient ports that have fallen into disuse, Byblos Old Port continues to be a place where local fishermen bring in their daily catch. This continuity adds a unique charm, allowing visitors to connect with the present while being surrounded by the echoes of the past. The old fishermen's cottages, now often converted into quaint cafes and restaurants, maintain the traditional character of the area.
Exploring the port area also means encountering the archaeological site of Byblos, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you can see layers of history, including Phoenician temples, Roman theaters, and Crusader fortifications. The proximity of these ancient ruins to the bustling modern port creates a fascinating juxtaposition, offering a comprehensive understanding of Byblos' enduring significance.
Capturing the Magic: Photography at Byblos Old Port
The undisputed highlight for photographers is the Mediterranean sunset. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky erupts in a symphony of colors – oranges, pinks, and purples – casting a warm glow over the port and the sea. Find a vantage point at one of the waterfront cafes or along the harbor's edge to capture this breathtaking spectacle. The silhouettes of the boats and the ancient structures against the vibrant sky create unforgettable photographic moments.
For the best results, visit during the golden hour (shortly after sunrise and before sunset) when the light is soft and warm. Experiment with different angles, from low shots capturing the water's movement to higher vantage points offering panoramic views. Don't forget to explore the narrow alleyways of the old city just beyond the port for charming architectural details and local life.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit