Baalbek

Baalbek, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has some of the most impressive Roman remains in the world. Bring good shoes and water, and visit early in the morning in summer.

What to see in Baalbek

• The Temple of Jupiter: only six columns remain, among the tallest in the Roman world, giving a sense of the sanctuary’s scale;
• the Temple of Bacchus, one of the best-preserved Roman temples, with its columns and carved decoration;
• the Temple of Venus, a small circular temple set apart;
• the ancient quarry, where huge cut stone blocks still lie;
• in summer, the Baalbek International Festival, with concerts among the temples.

Getting there

Baalbek lies in the Bekaa plain, beyond Mount Lebanon: allow a long day from Beirut. The easiest way is a driver or an organised tour, often combined with the Umayyad ruins of Anjar. There is less choice of accommodation than in Beirut.

More ideas in our guide Travel in Lebanon. Check opening hours and visiting conditions before you go.