Lebanon Beach Holidays

British citizens can normally apply for a free single-entry tourist or family visit visa on arrival at Beirut airport.

Your passport should be valid for at least 3 months from the date you enter Lebanon.

A tourist visa is valid for one month from the date of entry, but you can extend it for up to three months at the General Security offices.

Travellers overstaying their visa may have to pay a fine at the airport using only Lebanese currency.

You can also obtain a visa from the Lebanese Embassy in London, but these may be valid for a different time period so understand your visa validity to avoid penalties.

If your passport contains an Israeli stamp, you may be refused entry to Lebanon even if you hold a valid visa.

Lebanese immigration authorities check all visitors' names on arrival against a database of those wanted for, or convicted of, offences in Lebanon.

Take cover in a building and move away from windows if you hear celebratory gunfire, which is common and causes casualties.

Hide expensive jewellery and avoid carrying large amounts of cash in public to reduce the risk of petty or violent crime.

Avoid photography in Lebanese Hizballah areas, Beqaa Valley, southern Lebanon, or near military sites, as you could be detained.

Use only taxis from recognised companies or those recommended by your hotel, as shared or street-hailed taxis have been linked to armed robberies.

Carry ID with you at all times, as you may need to show your papers at military checkpoints on the roads.

During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, smoking, or chewing gum in public during the daytime to respect local customs.

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and be mindful that public behaviour considered offensive may be more scrutinised during religious periods.