A picturesque fishing port on the Mediterranean Sea, Jbeil Byblos boasts rich history and culture within its ancient harbour and medieval town centre. You can also explore a Crusader-era castle and visit a world-famous archaeological site.

Things to do

The Royal Tombs were carved into the rockfaces of Jbeil Byblos as early as the 2nd millennium BC. Today you can visit all nine tombs, including the final resting place of King Hiram. Some of the sarcophagi are now on show at the engaging National Museum of Beirut.

Historians won't want to miss the Byblos Archaeological Site. It's guarded by a carefully restored 12th-century Crusader castle encircled by a 10-metre-wide moat. The ramparts command knockout views over the ruins. Other highlights include the Temple of Baalat Gebal, the site's oldest place of worship.

Shop for treasures in the Old Souq, where colourful stalls sell everything from jewellery and textiles to spices and sweets. You'll also find plenty of atmospheric cafes and tea houses. It's easy to spend hours shopping for trinkets, chatting to shopkeepers and haggling for bargains.

There's no shortage of restaurants lining the historic harbour, though Bab El Mina is usually the liveliest. It's a coveted sundowner spot known for its sumptuous seafood, including octopus, calamari, prawns, ceviche and local fish. Wash it down with a cold glass of ayran, a creamy Lebanese drink made from salt and yoghurt.

Getting around

Jbeil Byblos is best-explored on foot, especially around the waterfront and medina. Local buses run to Beirut in around one hour, while the town is also serviced by taxis. Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport is a 40-minute drive from Jbeil Byblos.