Quick answer
Beirut is about 50 minutes from Larnaca on direct Middle East Airlines and Cyprus Airways flights, which run year-round but are often disrupted. Lebanon's capital is known for its food, seafront Corniche and nightlife, and two to three days is ideal.
- Direct flights from Larnaca with Middle East Airlines and Cyprus Airways, about 50m.
- Flights run year-round but are often disrupted, so check before you book.
- Beirut is on the same time as Cyprus.
- The currency is the Lebanese pound, but US dollars are widely used.
- Byblos, one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited towns, is an easy day trip.
- Flight time
- about 50m
- Fly from
- Larnaca
- Season
- Year-round (often disrupted)
- Currency
- Lebanese pound (US dollars widely used)
- Time
- Same time as Cyprus
- Airlines
- Middle East Airlines and Cyprus Airways
Beirut is a vibrant, seafront capital famous for its food, its café culture and its nightlife, with Roman remains, Ottoman-era mansions and modern architecture side by side. It's the shortest flight in our Beyond Cyprus series, so you can be eating mezze within hours of leaving home.
Before you book: flights to Beirut are sometimes suspended at short notice because of the regional situation. Check your government's travel advice and the airline's latest updates before you travel.
How do you get to Beirut from Cyprus?
Middle East Airlines and Cyprus Airways fly direct from Larnaca (LCA) to Beirut, with a flight time of about 50m. The route operates year-round but is often disrupted, so flexible fares are worth considering. Routes and schedules change by season, so check with the airline before booking.
Flights arrive at Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport, a short drive south of the centre. There's no rail link, so most visitors take an airport taxi, a pre-arranged transfer through their accommodation, or a ride-hailing app. Agree the fare before setting off if you take a taxi.
Is Beirut good for a weekend?
Yes. The main sights and neighbourhoods are close together, and the city's restaurants, bars and seafront make it ideal for food lovers, couples and groups of friends. It's a good choice if you want a lively city break with plenty of culture.
Spring and autumn bring warm days that are ideal for walking. Summers are hot and humid, while winters are mild with regular rain.
What to do in Beirut in a weekend
Day 1
Start with a walk along the Corniche, the seafront promenade where locals jog, fish and gather in the evenings. Continue to Raouché to see the Pigeon Rocks rising out of the sea. In the afternoon, explore Hamra, a lively district of cafés and bookshops, then head Downtown to see Martyrs' Square and the Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque. Spend the evening in the bars and restaurants of Mar Mikhael.
Day 2
Visit the National Museum of Beirut, home to an impressive collection of archaeological finds from across Lebanon. Then wander Gemmayzeh, with its old staircases, Ottoman-era houses and galleries, before a long lunch of mezze. Finish with sunset drinks overlooking the sea.
If you have a third day
Take a day trip north to Byblos, around an hour's drive away, to explore its ancient ruins, Crusader castle, old souk and small harbour. Check local advice before travelling outside the city.
Where to stay in Beirut
- Hamra: lively and central, with plenty of cafés; good value and easy to get around.
- Gemmayzeh and Mar Mikhael: atmospheric streets and nightlife, ideal for couples and friends.
- Downtown: polished and close to the main sights, suits a comfortable first visit.
- Raouché and the Corniche: sea views and seafront walks, good for a relaxed stay.
What to eat
- Mezze: a spread of small dishes, the heart of Lebanese dining.
- Hummus and moutabal: creamy chickpea and smoky aubergine dips.
- Tabbouleh: a fresh parsley, tomato and bulgur salad.
- Manakish: flatbread topped with za'atar or cheese, a classic breakfast.
- Kibbeh: spiced meat and bulgur, served fried, baked or raw.
- Arak: an aniseed spirit, diluted with water and ice, to sip with mezze.
Practical tips for travellers from Cyprus
- Currency: the Lebanese pound, though US dollars are widely used. Carry cash, ideally clean, small-denomination dollar notes, as card acceptance can be limited.
- Language: Arabic. English and French are widely spoken.
- Time difference: Beirut is on the same time as Cyprus.
- Passport and entry: Lebanon isn't in the EU, so you'll need your passport. Check the entry rules for your nationality before you book.
- Mobile roaming: EU roaming doesn't apply in Lebanon. Check your provider's roaming rates or use an eSIM; see our expat toolkit.
- Local custom: Lebanese hospitality is generous, and meals are long and social. Dress modestly when visiting mosques and churches.
For more ideas nearby, see a weekend in Amman or browse all our weekend getaways from Cyprus.
Plan your trip to Beirut
Contains affiliate linksFrequently asked questions
How long is the flight from Cyprus to Beirut?
Direct flights from Larnaca to Beirut take about 50 minutes. Middle East Airlines and Cyprus Airways fly the route year-round, though services are often disrupted.
Is a weekend enough for Beirut?
Yes. Two days covers the Corniche, Downtown, the National Museum and the Gemmayzeh and Mar Mikhael neighbourhoods. A third day allows a trip to Byblos.
What is the best time to visit Beirut?
Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) are the most pleasant. Summers are hot and humid, and winters are mild but rainy.
How do you get from Beirut airport to the city centre?
Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport is a short drive from the centre. Most visitors use an airport taxi, a pre-arranged transfer or a ride-hailing app.
Can I pay in US dollars in Beirut?
US dollars are widely used alongside the Lebanese pound, and many places quote prices in dollars. Carry cash, as card acceptance can be limited.