Lebanon is a great destination on its own, but why stop there? With its convenient location, Lebanon makes the perfect starting point for a multi-country adventure. It can also be paired with other countries for a unique and diverse travel experience. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at some of the countries that can be paired with Lebanon for an enriching and diverse experience.
Jordan
Jordan is another country in the Middle East that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. A visit to Jordan – which is a short flight away from Lebanon – can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, with a wealth of historical sites, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities to explore. In Jordan, you can visit the ancient city of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is considered one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The city is carved into red sandstone cliffs, and is home to a number of remarkable buildings, tombs, and temples. Another must-visit site in Jordan is the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth and a famous health and wellness destination.
How to go to Jordan from Lebanon
Regardless of the mode of entry, it’s important to keep in mind that travel between Lebanon and Jordan may be subject to immigration and security restrictions, and it’s always a good idea to check the latest information before traveling.
By Land – The most common way to travel from Lebanon to Jordan is by land, and there are several border crossings between the two countries. The main border crossing is the King Hussein Bridge, which is located between Amman, Jordan and Irbid, Jordan. The journey from Beirut to Amman by land takes approximately 4 to 5 hours, and travelers can take a taxi or a private car.
By Air – Another option for travel from Lebanon to Jordan is by air. The main airport in Jordan is Queen Alia International Airport, located in Amman. There are several flights per day from Beirut to Amman, and the flight time is approximately 1 hour.
By Bus – Traveling by bus is another option for those looking to travel from Lebanon to Jordan. There are several bus companies that operate services between the two countries, and the journey takes approximately 5 to 6 hours.
Syria
Syria, like Lebanon, is a country with a rich history and culture. Visitors can explore the ancient city of Palmyra, known as the “Venice of the Sands,” and the Crusader castle in Krak des Chevaliers. Although the situation in Syria is currently unstable, it is worth checking the current situation before planning your trip. The easiest way to access Syria from Lebanon is through the land border.
Saudi Arabia
Journeying from Lebanon to Saudi Arabia is a great way to explore the rich historical heritage and cultural marvels of the Arabian Peninsula. If you’re planning a cross-country trip like this, do well to check the visa requirements for entering Saudi Arabia. Also, be prepared for border control and immigration procedures.
By Air – The easiest and most convenient way to enter Saudi Arabia from Lebanon is by air. Several airlines offer direct flights between major Lebanese cities, such as Beirut, and various Saudi Arabian cities, including Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam. Check for flight options, compare prices, and book your tickets in advance to secure the best deals. Flying allows you to save time and enjoy a seamless transition between the two countries.
By Land – While air travel is the most common option, crossing the border between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia by land adds an adventurous touch to your trip. Here are the primary entry points:
- Abou Samra – Al Batha: This border crossing connects Lebanon’s Abou Samra with Saudi Arabia’s Al Batha. It is the main entry point for travelers coming from Lebanon and provides relatively straightforward access to the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia.
- Kfar Yabous – KSA Al-Haditha: Situated in the northwest, this border crossing connects Lebanon’s Kfar Yabous with Saudi Arabia’s Al-Haditha. It is an alternative route for those traveling from Lebanon to the northwestern regions of Saudi Arabia.
Research the preferred border crossing based on your itinerary and consider factors such as proximity to your desired destinations in Saudi Arabia and available transportation options.
Qatar
With a mix of historical wonders and modern marvels, Qatar is a destination worth exploring. Traveling from Lebanon to Qatar offers a captivating journey into the heart of the Arabian Peninsula. When in Qatar, explore Doha’s iconic attractions, such as the awe-inspiring Museum of Islamic Art, the vibrant Souq Waqif, and the stunning Corniche.
By Air – The most convenient and time-efficient way to enter Qatar from Lebanon is by air. Qatar Airways offers direct flights between Beirut, Lebanon’s capital, and Doha, Qatar’s capital. If you choose to fly Qatar Airways, consider taking advantage of a stopover in Doha with Qatar Airways stopover program. The airline offers various layover options, allowing you to extend your stay in Qatar for a few hours or even a few days and you can explore the city’s highlights before continuing your journey. Also note that the national carrier offers a simplified process for transit passengers with a layover in Doha. You may be eligible for a free transit visa for up to 96 hours, depending on the duration of your layover and other factors. Also provided by the airline are complimentary city tours for passengers with a long layover, ensuring you make the most of your time in Qatar.
By Land – While air travel is the most common option, if you decide to embark on a land adventure, crossing the border between Lebanon and Qatar requires careful planning. Currently, there are no direct land border entry points between the two countries. If you wish to travel by land, consider reaching Qatar through a neighboring country, such as Saudi Arabia or the United Arab Emirates, which have direct land borders with Qatar.
Cyprus
Cyprus is a beautiful island nation located in the Eastern Mediterranean. It has a rich history, diverse culture, beautiful beaches and delicious food. Nicosia, the capital city, is home to many historical sites, including the Kyrenia Gate, the Venetian Walls, and the St. John’s Cathedral. Visitors can explore the ancient city of Salamis and the village of Lefkara, known for its traditional lace-making. Another must-visit site is the Troodos Mountains, which offer stunning views, charming villages, and opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Lebanon and Cyprus are two neighboring countries in the Eastern Mediterranean region, and travel between these two nations is becoming increasingly popular. For those looking to enter Cyprus from Lebanon, there are several modes of entry available: by air, land, and sea.
By Air – Flying from Lebanon to Cyprus is the quickest and most convenient mode of entry for many travelers. Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport and Larnaca International Airport are the main airports that offer direct flights between the two countries. The flight time between Beirut and Larnaca is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, and there are several airlines that operate daily flights between the two cities.
By Land – Traveling by land from Lebanon to Cyprus is also possible, but it is a more time-consuming option. The overland journey involves driving to the nearest border crossing and taking a ferry to the island. The ferry journey from the nearest port in Lebanon to the nearest port in Cyprus takes approximately 2 hours. You will need to bring your passport and other travel documents with you.
By Sea – For those traveling to Cyprus from Lebanon by sea, there are regular ferry services that operate between the two countries. The ferry journey takes approximately 2 hours, and you can enjoy cruising the Mediterranean Sea as you go. Keep in mind that the sea route is only open in the summer, so be sure to verify the timetable and availability before making travel arrangements.
Egypt
Egypt is famous for its ancient civilization and is home to some of the most iconic historical sites of the world; the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, the temples of Luxor and Karnak, and the Valley of the Kings. Cairo, the capital city, is also home to many fascinating sites, including the Egyptian Museum, which houses one of the largest collections of ancient Egyptian artifacts in the world.
There are several modes of entry available for travelers looking to enter Egypt from Lebanon. Whether you prefer to fly, drive, or take a ferry, there is a convenient option for everyone. Just be sure to have all of your travel documents in order and plan your journey ahead of time to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.
By Air – Flying from Lebanon to Egypt is the quickest and most convenient mode of entry for many travelers. Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport and Cairo International Airport are the main airports that offer direct flights between the two countries. The flight time between Beirut and Cairo is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, and there are several airlines that operate daily flights between the two cities.
By Land – Traveling by land from Lebanon to Egypt is also a popular option for those who want to take in the scenic routes and immerse themselves in the local culture. The overland journey between the two countries takes approximately 15 hours and involves passing through several border checkpoints. You will need to bring your passport, visa (if required), and other travel documents with you.
By Sea – For those traveling to Egypt from Lebanon by sea, there are regular ferry services that operate between the two countries. The ferry journey takes approximately 8 hours, and passengers can enjoy scenic views of the Mediterranean Sea along the way. It’s important to note that the sea route is only available during the summer months, so be sure to check the schedule and availability before planning your trip.
As a budget-conscious traveler, pairing countries is a great way to travel more for less. Two for the price of one is always a good idea! So when you plan your trips, do so with a map in hand – and be on the lookout for nearby destinations on your bucket list that could easily be accessed through a multi-city flight.