Things to See and Do in Tripoli, Lebanon

Clock Tower, Al Tal
Clock Tower, Al Tal | © Amani El Charif

Tripoli is a small yet major city on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. It was the center of ancient trading, Ottoman rule, and Islamic communities. Today, the city, like most of Lebanon, bears the scars of war and strife; however, this does not affect its old-world beauty or historical significance. Here is a list of must-visit places in Tripoli. Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.

Visit the Citadel of Raymond de Saint-Gilles

The Citadel, Tripoli

First established in 636 CE by Arab commanders, the Citadel of Raymond de Saint-Gilles in Tripoli is one of the biggest fortresses in Lebanon. Later, the Crusaders, Mamelukes, and Ottomans all utilized the structure. The citadel overlooks the Abou Ali River and is known for having abandoned underground pathways used by leaders to escape. While these pathways have long since been closed off or flooded by water, their existence adds to the mystery of this famous fortress.

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CentralAmerica

GORGEOUS GUATEMALA

Gorgeous Guatemala

5 days . Mini
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1. Guatemala

An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.

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CentralAmerica

BEACHY BELIZE

Beachy Belize

5 days . Mini
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2. Belize

A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea.
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CentralAmerica

COLONIAL MEXICO

Colonial Mexico

5 days . Mini
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3. Mexico

An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different.
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ADVENTUROUS ECUADOR

Adventurous Ecuador

8 days . Epic
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1. Ecuador

A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.

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SouthAmerica

ANCIENT PERU

Ancient Peru

9 days . Epic
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2. Peru

An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon.
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Europe

SEDUCTIVE SOUTHERN ITALY

Seductive Southern Italy

10 days . Epic
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1. Italy

The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.

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Europe

EDINBURGH AND THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS BY TRAIN

Edinburgh And The Scottish Highlands By Train

7 days . Culture
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2. Scotland

Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers.
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COMPLETE PORTUGAL BY TRAIN

Complete Portugal By Train

8 days . Culture
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3. Portugal

A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers.
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Asia

SOULFUL SOUTH KOREA

Soulful South Korea

10 days . Epic
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1. South Korea

Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.

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Asia

THAILAND, CAMBODIA & VIETNAM

Thailand, Cambodia & Vietnam

11 days . Epic
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2. Thailand

From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise.
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SECRETS OF SRI LANKA BY TRAIN

Secrets Of Sri Lanka By Train

10 days . Culture
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3. Sri Lanka

A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great price
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Africa

EPIC MOROCCO

Epic Morocco

11 days . Epic
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1. Morocco

An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!

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ULTIMATE EGYPT

Ultimate Egypt

9 days . Epic
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2. Egypt

From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt.
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IMMERSIVE KENYA

Immersive Kenya

8 days . Epic
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3. Kenya

An immersive blend of culture and wildlife for first time travelers to Africa. Learn about Nairobi, sample local coffee in the Aberdares and finish up with a fantastic safari stay in the Masai Mara.
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Opening hours: Mon-Sun 9:00AM–5:00 PM

Citadel of Raymond de Saint-Gilles, Tripoli, Lebanon

Visit the old souks

Jump all the way back to Medieval times with a visit to Tripoli’s old souks. There is a total of nine old souks for you to explore, with the most notable being the Attareen (Fragrance Makers), Nahasseen (Copper Welders), Soap Khan, and Khayateen (Seamstresses). These were divided according to ancient guilds as Tripoli was known for its olive oil-based soaps and beautiful merchandise. You never know what you might find in these architectural wonders, so strap on your backpack and start exploring.

Visit the mosques

Historical mosque in Tripoli

Tripoli is brimming with beautiful mosques that you can visit. From ancient buildings to modern structures, the mosques are a significant part of Tripoli’s Islamic society. While you’ll find them located throughout the city, the most notable mosques would be the Mansouri Great Mosque, built in 1294 CE, and the Bourtasi Mosque in the Hadid district, constructed in 1310 CE. Keep in mind that people still use these mosques for prayer and that they will be open most of the day.

Mansouri Great Mosque, Tripoli, Lebanon

Walk around Tal

A building in Al Tal

Tal is the old center of Tripoli, where most cosmopolitan activities happened in the 20th century. It is home to the city’s famous clock tower and old hotels. Walk through this busy street and marvel at all the hustle and bustle that takes place in the area. Grab some street food and wander through the alleys; you won’t see buildings like these anywhere else.

Tal, Tripoli, Lebanon

Relax by the sea in Mina

Corniche, Mina

A great place to relax in the afternoon would be the Corniche in Mina. Walk along the coastline of Tripoli or sit at a table set up by the many drink and snack kiosks littering the sidewalk. Try some street food from a wagon, and watch the sun set behind the horizon. It’s definitely a good place to people-watch and to get a sense of the local environment.

Corniche El Mina, Tripoli, Lebanon

Wander through Mina

An alleyway in Mina

Mina is a large part of Tripoli, filled with incredible buildings to see. Stray from the Corniche (sea-walk) and walk around the alleyways in Mina. There are several historic hotels and homes scattered throughout the district. Move from bustling streets to peaceful neighborhoods in this coastal wonder.

Mina, Tripoli, Lebanon

Try the street food

Ka’ak stand in Tripoli

Almost every street and corner in Tripoli has a place to eat traditional street food. There are Ka’ak (sesame-covered pastry) wagons all over and man’ouch shops in every neighborhood. Don’t be afraid to eat from all the different shawarma and falafel delis in Mina and Tal – even locals eat at those places. The food you’ll try in Tripoli is exceptional, and it’ll be difficult to find the same anywhere outside of the city.

Try the incredible Akra

Akra Dishes

If you ask any local where to have an authentic Tripolitan breakfast, they will say Akra. Located both near the citadel and in Tal, this restaurant serves delicious ful– and hummus-based dishes like “Hummus bi Tahine” and “Fatteh.” Keep in mind that the food is cheap – you don’t want to be overcharged.

Sit in new cafés on Dam w Farez Street

Rassif on Dam w Farez

Tripoli is an ancient city that combines the old and the new. One can clearly see a progression in time with the architecture shifting gradually from the center and out toward the newer areas. The city is not just about the history but the lifestyle. There are many cafés and restaurants on Dam w Farez Street that serve local fare and international cuisine.

Dam w Farez Street, Tripoli, Lebanon

Visit the Rachid Karami International Fair Center

Arch, Rachid Karami Center

The Rachid Karami International Fair Center is a modern architectural marvel. The glass-walled building features an expanse of gardens around its perimeter, all waiting for you to explore. There are various buildings strewn across the greenery, from a curiously fashioned hollow dome that works like an amphitheater to an arch that opens to a concert stage. All you need to do is walk in and begin wandering.

Rachid Karami International Fair Center, Tripoli, Lebanon, +961 6 600 427

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