Lebanon
West Asia • LBN
Last updated: October 13, 2026
Lebanon is a Mediterranean gem known for its rich historical tapestry, vibrant nightlife, and exceptional culinary scene. Visitors can explore ancient Roman ruins, hike through majestic cedar forests, and experience the warm hospitality of its diverse culture.
Visa Requirements
Citizens of many countries can obtain a visa on arrival at Beirut International Airport, provided they have a hotel reservation and a return ticket, while some nationalities require prior approval.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport valid for at least six months
- Return or onward flight ticket
- Proof of accommodation or hotel reservation
- Evidence of sufficient funds for the stay
Popular Attractions
Baalbek: Home to some of the best-preserved and most impressive Roman temples in the world.
Byblos: One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, featuring a historic harbor and ancient souks.
Jeita Grotto: A breathtaking system of two interconnected limestone caves featuring stunning stalactites and stalagmites.
Beiteddine Palace: A masterpiece of 19th-century Lebanese architecture, known for its intricate mosaics and courtyards.
Cedars of God: A historic forest containing some of the last remnants of the ancient Lebanon cedar forests.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Hospitality is central to Lebanese culture, so it is polite to accept offered coffee or small treats.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites by covering your shoulders and knees.
Avoid discussing sensitive political or sectarian topics as these are deeply personal and potentially divisive.
Tipping is customary in restaurants; rounding up or leaving 10-15% is greatly appreciated.
Public displays of affection should be kept discreet, as the society is generally conservative outside of nightlife districts.
Remove your shoes before entering someone's home, as it is a sign of respect and cleanliness.
Safety Tips
Monitor local news reports and government travel advisories closely due to the potential for sudden political instability.
Avoid protests and large public gatherings, as they can escalate into unpredictable situations.
Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps rather than hailing random vehicles on the street.
Keep your passport and important travel documents in a secure, dry place, but carry a digital or paper copy.
Be cautious in border areas near Syria and Israel, as these regions are strictly off-limits or high-risk.
Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers emergency medical evacuation.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Yellow Fever
Source: CDC
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travelers aged 1 year or older arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
Not required when traveling directly from non-risk countries.
View sourceMeningococcal
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers, particularly those in close contact with local populations.
View sourcePolio
Source: CDC
Proof of vaccination is required only if traveling from a country where poliovirus is circulating.
View sourceCore Vaccines
Routine Vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Polio, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to provide general immunity.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines
Source: CDC
Ensure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before travel.
Includes MMR, DTaP, Polio, Varicella, and annual flu shot.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure you are up to date on routine vaccines before your trip.
View sourceTetanus-diphtheria-pertussis (Tdap)
Source: CDC
Adults should have a Tdap booster every ten years, particularly if traveling to areas with disease outbreaks.
View sourceRoutine vaccinations (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure you are up to date on routine vaccines before traveling.
View sourceTdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Source: CDC
Recommended for adults who have not received a Tdap booster within the last 10 years.
View sourceMMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers who are not up to date on their routine vaccines.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended due to potential for food or water contamination.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended if planning to eat or drink outside of major restaurants and hotels.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers to reduce the risk of serious illness or transmission.
View sourceTdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Source: CDC
Ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date.
View sourceMMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Source: CDC
Routine vaccination is recommended before travel.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Food and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
Essential to prevent foodborne and waterborne illnesses like traveler's diarrhea.
Drink only bottled, sealed, or treated water; avoid ice; eat food that is cooked and served hot.
View sourceInsect Bite Prevention
Source: CDC
Protect against mosquito, tick, or flea-borne diseases.
Use EPA-registered insect repellents and wear protective clothing.
View sourceFood and Water Safety
Source: CDC
Prevent gastrointestinal illness by consuming safe food and water.
Drink only bottled, sealed, or treated water; avoid undercooked food.
View sourceCOVID-19 Vaccination
Source: CDC
Required for entry for some travelers to reduce transmission risk.
View sourceTraveler's diarrhea prevention
Source: CDC
Avoid untreated water and consume only pasteurized dairy products or boiled water.
View sourceMeningococcal
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers in close quarters or communal living conditions.
View sourceFood and Water Safety Precautions
Source: CDC
Advisory for all travelers to avoid unprocessed food and untreated water.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures (DEET, permethrin)
Source: CDC
To prevent diseases transmitted by insects (e.g., dengue fever).
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers due to risk through contaminated food or water.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers due to risk through contaminated food or water.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Insect bite prevention
Source: CDC
Prevent mosquito-borne diseases, especially in rural areas.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
To prevent foodborne and waterborne illness
View sourceMeasles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)
Source: CDC
Ensure your children are fully vaccinated against MMR before traveling.
View sourceCOVID-19 considerations
Source: CDC
Be aware of COVID-19 requirements such as vaccination proof and testing.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
Due to potential vector-borne diseases in the region.
Use insect repellent, wear long sleeves, and stay in places with air conditioning.
View sourceMeasles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)
Source: CDC
Recommended for infants before travel to ensure protection against these diseases.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Especially for travelers who may be exposed to blood or bodily fluids.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Considered for travelers who may have sexual contact or medical procedures.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Considered for travelers involved in outdoor activities or working with animals.
View source