Jeita Grotto, Harissa & Byblos: Small Group Day Trip with Lunch

Summary

Lebanon’s caves, mountain views & Byblos old town in one day

You’ll ride through Lebanon’s mountains to explore Jeita Grotto’s hidden caves, take in sweeping views from Harissa via cable car, and get lost in Byblos’ ancient streets—all with a local guide and lunch included. Expect moments that stick with you long after you’re back.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to start the day feeling so quietly nervous about caves. But there we were, winding out of Beirut in a van that smelled faintly of cardamom coffee (someone’s thermos, I think), heading north toward Jeita Grotto. Our guide, Rami, kept tossing out little stories—how locals used to sneak into the caves as kids before it was all official. The moment we stepped inside Jeita, it was cool and almost damp, but not in a bad way. The boat ride through the lower grotto felt surreal—echoes bouncing off stone, water so clear you could see your own reflection if you leaned over (I nearly did). I probably stared too long at those stalactites.

Harissa came next. You know that feeling when you suddenly realize how small you are? Standing by the Lady of Lebanon statue above Jounieh Bay did that for me. The wind up there had this salty tang from the sea below. We took the cable car down—Telefrique—which was a little creaky but honestly kind of fun. Rami just grinned at my nervous laugh and said it’s been running forever; “Don’t worry, habibi.” I snapped a photo but mostly just watched the coastline slip by under our feet.

Byblos surprised me most. It’s old—like really old—but somehow alive in this gentle way. We wandered through souks where vendors called out in Arabic and French; I tried some halva from a street stall (sticky sweet, left my fingers smelling like sesame). Lunch was at a place tucked behind an ancient wall—mezze plates everywhere and grilled fish that tasted like it had come straight from the harbor. I still think about that view over the port while we ate. Afterward we drifted through ruins and shops until it was time to head back to Beirut, tired but sort of buzzing from it all.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Jeita, Harissa, Byblos day trip

• Pickup from Beirut hotel
• Drive north to Jeita Grotto
• Explore Jeita Grotto caves
• Visit Harissa and Lady of Lebanon
• Take cable car to Jounieh
• Explore Byblos historic streets
• Enjoy lunch in Byblos
• Return drive to Beirut

Top questions

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

The tour lasts about 9 hours including transportation between sites.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip?

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

What is included for lunch on this tour?

A Lebanese lunch in Byblos with fresh seafood and traditional dishes is included.

Do I need to buy entry tickets separately?

No, all entry fees are covered as part of the tour package.

Is there a guide during the whole trip?

Yes, a professional local guide accompanies your group throughout the day.

Are infants or children allowed on this tour?

Yes, infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap during transport.

How many people are usually in each group?

This is a small-group tour for a more personal experience.

Is there much walking involved in Byblos?

You’ll stroll through historic streets and souks at a relaxed pace.

What’s included

Your day includes comfortable air-conditioned transport with hotel pickup and drop-off in Beirut, all entry fees for Jeita Grotto and other sites along the route, a knowledgeable local guide throughout the journey, plus a full Lebanese lunch with fresh seafood and mezze before heading back in the afternoon.