CountryLebanon
Ancient harbour town
Byblos (Jbeil)
Also known as Jbeil
Byblos, known locally as Jbeil, places archaeology, an old town, harbour and restaurants within a compact, walkable area.
Overview
Quick facts
RegionMount Lebanon
Local nameJbeil
Best forHistory, harbour and coast
Byblos (Jbeil)
What would you like to discover?
The city and its character
About Byblos (Jbeil)
Jbeil grew around a site with remains from many historical periods. Its archaeological area, old lanes and small harbour sit close together, so the town rewards a slower visit without a packed itinerary.
Find the right area
Areas to know
Old town
Stone lanes, shops and restaurants beside the archaeological site.
Best for: history and walking
Old harbour
A small historic harbour with fishing boats and restaurants nearby.
Best for: views and dinnerWhat to experience
Attractions
Byblos archaeological site
Remains from several periods gathered in one site; check current visitor information.
Read the attraction guideOld harbour
A natural end point for a walk through the old town.
Old town lanes
A compact web of stone buildings, small shops and places to eat.
Flavours
Food & restaurants
The old town and harbour offer Lebanese restaurants, seafood and cafés. Weekend evenings are much busier than weekdays.
Practical information
Getting around
Taxi, transfer, car or bus/minibus from Beirut are the usual options. Combine Byblos with Batroun only if you have reliable transport and enough time.
Read the full transport guideWhere to stay
Where should you stay?
Old town
Walkable and atmospheric, but busier at weekends.
- Best for
- a short car-free stay
- Strengths
- close to archaeology, harbour and restaurants
Outside the centre
You may need a taxi or car; check parking and access.
- Best for
- a longer stay
- Strengths
- more peaceful surroundings
Before your trip
Good to know
Names
Byblos and Jbeil refer to the same city, and both are widely used.
Access
Archaeological opening hours can change; confirm them on the day.
Keep exploring
More destinations you may like
Batroun
Historic coastal town with old lanes, swimming places, restaurants and a lively summer scene.
Read the guide
Beirut
A Mediterranean capital of museums, waterfront walks, restaurants and neighbourhoods with distinct personalities.
Read the guide
Tripoli
Working souks, Mamluk architecture, celebrated sweets and the coastal district of El Mina.
Read the guide