Lebanon Travel Guide - Getting Around

There are no internal flights.

Ports are served by coastal passenger ferries. For details, contact the embassy (see Contact Addresses).

Traffic drives on the right. Speed limit signs, traffic police and traffic lights are present but may not always be respected and driving, particularly in Beirut, can be quite unpredictable. As public transport is limited, roads in Beirut are over-congested. The worst times for traffic jams are 0730-0930 and 1630-1900.

Bus: Intercity buses run by private companies are cheap and efficient. Many hotels also offer complimentary bus and other transport services.

Taxi: Intercity taxis operate throughout Beirut and Lebanon. Travel is normally shared. Prices are negotiated in advance. Town taxis have red licence plates and an official tariff. There is a surcharge of 50% after 2200.

Car hire: Self-drive cars are available, but chauffeur-driven vehicles are recommended; check with the Ministry of Tourism. It should be noted that the price of petrol is very expensive in Lebanon.

Emergency breakdown service: SOS Auto (tel: (1) 216 376; website: www.sosauto.net).

Documentation: An International Driving Permit and Green Card are required.

Public bus services are available in Beirut, where bus services have recently been expanded, although service taxis remain the most widely used option.