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Beirut to Baalbek: A Bekaa Valley Day Trip by Car

A self-drive day trip from Beirut to Baalbek and the Bekaa Valley: route over the Dahr el Baidar pass, driving time, Baalbek's Roman temples, Zahle, Anjar and Bekaa wineries.

Updated · 5 min read

The Roman columns of the Temple of Bacchus at Baalbek

Baalbek's Roman temples are among the most impressive ancient sites in the Middle East, and the drive there - over Mount Lebanon and into the wide Bekaa Valley - is part of the experience. With a rental car, you can see Baalbek, Zahle and a winery in a single day from Beirut.

The route

Baalbek is about 85 km from Beirut. Take the Beirut-Damascus highway east, climbing through Aley and Sofar to the Dahr el Baidar pass, then descend into the Bekaa Valley near Chtaura. From there, head north through the valley to Baalbek. Allow around two hours each way, more in heavy traffic or bad weather.

Winter conditions

The Dahr el Baidar pass can see snow and ice in winter. Check the weather before you leave and read our winter driving tips.

Suggested itinerary

  1. Early morning: leave Beirut before the rush hour and stop in Chtaura for breakfast.
  2. Late morning: explore Baalbek's archaeological site - the Temple of Bacchus, the remaining columns of the Temple of Jupiter and the great courtyards. Allow two to three hours.
  3. Lunch: drive back south to Zahle for lunch at one of the riverside restaurants along the Berdawni.
  4. Afternoon: visit a Bekaa Valley winery - several welcome visitors for tours and tastings (book ahead and make sure the driver does not drink).
  5. Optional: if time allows, detour to the Umayyad ruins of Anjar before heading back over the mountains to Beirut.

Good to know

  • Check your government's current travel advice for Lebanon before travelling to the Bekaa Valley.
  • Carry your licence, ID and rental agreement for checkpoints.
  • Fill up with fuel before leaving the main roads and carry some cash.
  • Wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection - Baalbek's site is large and exposed.

For more ideas in the region, see Zahle and the Bekaa in our weekend getaways guide. Ready to book? Compare cars on Avis Lebanon (opens in a new tab) or Budget Lebanon (opens in a new tab).

Frequently asked questions

How long is the drive from Beirut to Baalbek?

Baalbek is about 85 km from Beirut. The drive usually takes around two hours each way, depending on traffic and weather on the mountain pass.

Can I visit Baalbek and Zahle in one day?

Yes. Leave Beirut early, spend the morning at Baalbek, have lunch in Zahle and return to Beirut in the late afternoon or evening.

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