Jeita Grotto, Harissa & Byblos: Cable Car, Caves & Ancient Port

Summary

Lebanon’s caves, cable cars and Byblos old port in one day

You’ll feel the chill of Jeita Grotto’s caves, soar above Jounieh Bay by cable car to Harissa’s hilltop statue, and lose yourself in Byblos’ ancient alleys—all in one day with easy hotel pickup and a local driver sharing stories along the way.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to start my day gliding through a cave so quiet you could hear your own breath. But that’s how Jeita Grotto is—cool and echoey, with water dripping somewhere in the dark. Our driver (I think his name was Samir?) picked us up from Beirut just after eight. He told us about his childhood trips here, and honestly, hearing him talk about sneaking into the lower cave as a kid made me laugh. The boat ride inside was short but surreal—almost too still for words.

After that came the cable car up to Harissa. I’m not great with heights, but I tried to act cool while Jounieh Bay opened up below us. The statue of Our Lady of Lebanon is massive up close—people were lighting candles and taking selfies at the same time, which felt kind of perfect for Lebanon. There was this faint smell of incense mixed with sea air. We didn’t stay long because we were all hungry by then.

Byblos was next—a proper old city where you can actually touch stones older than most countries. We wandered through the souq where vendors called out in Arabic and French (I managed a shy “merci” that got a smile). Lunch by the old port tasted like grilled fish and lemon, and there was this lazy cat under our table who refused to move even when I dropped some bread. The castle tour was quick but our guide pointed out carvings I’d never have noticed on my own. Three hours flew by—I could’ve stayed longer just watching boats bob in the harbor.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Jeita Grotto, Harissa, and Byblos tour

• Hotel pick up 7:45-8:30 AM
• Depart Beirut 8:30 AM
• Arrive Jeita Grotto 9:00 AM
• Cable car ride to upper cave
• Explore upper cave
• Train ride to lower cave
• Boat ride in lower cave
• Depart Jeita Grotto 10:30 AM
• Arrive Jounieh cable car 11:00 AM
• Cable car ride to Harissa
• Visit Our Lady of Lebanon statue
• Depart Harissa 12:00 PM
• Arrive Byblos 12:30 PM
• Walk old souk and visit castle
• Visit Fossils and Wax Museums
• Explore old port and St Jean Marc Church
• Depart Byblos 3:30 PM
• Arrive Beirut 4:30-5:00 PM
• Drop at hotel or address

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Beirut to Jeita Grotto, Harissa & Byblos?

The tour lasts from around 7:45 AM to 5:00 PM including travel time and stops.

Is hotel pickup included for this Jeita Grotto day trip?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in Beirut are included in your booking.

How much time do you spend at each stop?

You’ll have about 1 hour at Jeita Grotto, 1 hour at Harissa, and 3 hours in Byblos.

Is lunch included during the Byblos visit?

No set lunch is included but you’ll have free time to eat at local restaurants in Byblos.

Are entry fees covered on this tour?

No entry fees are not specifically mentioned as included; check with your provider if unsure.

Can infants join this day trip?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are allowed.

Is there a guide or just a driver?

You’ll have an English/Arabic speaking driver who shares local insights along the way.

What should I wear for Jeita Grotto?

The cave is cool and damp; bring a light jacket and comfortable shoes for walking.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from your Beirut hotel or address in an air-conditioned vehicle with an English or Arabic-speaking driver; parking fees are covered too before you’re dropped back at your hotel in the evening.