Lebanon
West Asia • LBN
Last updated: October 13, 2026
Lebanon is a Mediterranean gem known for its rich history, diverse cultural landscape, and vibrant culinary scene. Visitors can explore ancient Roman ruins, hike through majestic cedar forests, and experience the lively nightlife of Beirut.
Visa Requirements
Citizens of many countries can obtain a free visa on arrival at Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport, provided they have no Israeli stamps in their passport.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport valid for at least six months
- Confirmed round-trip airline ticket
- Hotel reservation or proof of accommodation address
- 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, including the massive Temple of Jupiter.
Byblos: One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, featuring a charming harbor, historic souks, and a crusader castle.
Jeita Grotto: An extraordinary system of two interconnected karstic limestone caves featuring stunning stalactites and stalagmites.
Beiteddine Palace: An exquisite 19th-century palace showcasing beautiful Lebanese architecture, intricate mosaics, and ornate courtyards.
Cedars of God: A historic grove of ancient cedar trees located in the mountains, representing the national symbol of Lebanon.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Hospitality is central to Lebanese culture, and it is considered polite to accept small offers of coffee or food when offered by locals.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites such as mosques and churches by covering your shoulders and knees.
Avoid discussing sensitive political or religious topics, as these subjects can be polarizing and complex within the country.
Tipping at restaurants is common; adding 10-15 percent to your bill is appreciated if a service charge is not already included.
Always ask for permission before taking photographs of local people or military and government installations.
Safety Tips
Monitor travel advisories closely and avoid areas near the borders with Syria and Israel due to regional instability.
Avoid large public demonstrations or political gatherings, as these can escalate into unpredictable situations.
Use only official taxis or reputable ride-sharing apps rather than hailing random vehicles on the street.
Stay informed about local news and maintain a flexible itinerary that allows you to change plans if tensions arise.
Keep digital copies of your passport and travel documents in a secure cloud service for easy access.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Yellow Fever
Source: CDC
Not required when traveling directly from non-risk countries.
View sourceYellow 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 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 sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended if planning to eat or drink outside of major restaurants and hotels.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended due to potential for food or water contamination.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.
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
To prevent diseases spread by mosquitoes, ticks, and other insects.
Use EPA-registered insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and use bed nets if sleeping in exposed areas.
View sourceFood and water safety
Source: CDC
Prevent gastrointestinal illness by consuming safe food and water.
Drink only bottled, sealed, or boiled water; avoid ice; eat only thoroughly cooked food.
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