Renting a Car in Lebanon: A Practical Guide for Tourists and Locals

Lebanon is a small country with a lot packed into it: Mediterranean beaches, Roman temples, cedar forests, ski slopes and wine country can all sit within a couple of hours' drive of Beirut. Public transport between regions is limited, so renting a car is the most flexible way for visitors - and for residents without a car of their own - to explore at their own pace.

This guide covers the practical side of car rental in Lebanon. For the reservation itself, you can compare vehicles and book directly with Avis Lebanon (opens in a new tab) or Budget Lebanon (opens in a new tab).

Why rent a car in Lebanon?

• Freedom to explore: many of Lebanon's highlights - the Qadisha Valley, the Chouf mountains, Baalbek and the Bekaa wineries - are far easier to reach by car.
• Short distances: most day trips from Beirut are under 130 km each way, so you can see a lot in a single trip.
• Your own schedule: stop at viewpoints, village bakeries and beaches without depending on tour timetables.
• Comfort for families and groups: one rental is often simpler than arranging several taxis for a full day out.

Documents and requirements

Requirements differ between rental companies and can change, so always confirm the current conditions with Avis Lebanon or Budget Lebanon before you travel. In general, expect to need:

• A valid driving licence that you have held for the minimum period the rental company requires.
• Your passport (for visitors) or national ID (for residents).
• A credit card in the main driver's name, which is commonly used for the security deposit.
• For some visitors, an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence - ask the rental company whether one is needed for your licence.

Choosing the right car

The best car depends on where you are going and when:

• Compact or economy cars are easy to park in Beirut, Jounieh and Byblos, and are ideal for coastal trips.
• Sedans add comfort and boot space for longer drives to Tripoli, Sidon or the Bekaa Valley.
• SUVs are worth considering for mountain villages, steep roads and winter trips towards Faraya or the Cedars.
• Larger vehicles or vans suit families and groups travelling with luggage.

Automatic and manual availability, as well as the exact models offered, change over time - check the current fleet on the Avis Lebanon (opens in a new tab) and Budget Lebanon (opens in a new tab) websites.

Picking up a car at Beirut airport

Most international visitors arrive at Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY), about 9 km south of central Beirut. Collecting a rental car on arrival saves a taxi transfer and lets you head straight to your hotel or onward destination. Check each company's website for its pickup locations and opening hours, and add your flight number to the booking if requested so the team knows about delays.

Insurance and deposits

Before you sign the rental agreement, make sure you understand:

• What the basic insurance covers and the excess (deductible) you would pay in case of damage.
• Whether additional cover, such as reduced-excess or theft protection, is available.
• How much is held on your card as a deposit and when it is released.
• What to do and who to call in case of an accident or breakdown.

Walk around the car with the agent at pickup, note any existing scratches or dents, and take photos with time stamps. Do the same when you return it.

Fuel, tolls and payment

Petrol stations are easy to find along the coastal highway and in towns, though they are more spread out in remote mountain areas - fill up before heading into the mountains. Many stations prefer cash, and both Lebanese pounds and US dollars are widely used, so carry some cash for fuel, parking and small purchases. Check the fuel policy in your rental agreement (for example, return full) to avoid refuelling charges.

Booking tips

1. Book ahead for summer, Christmas, New Year and Easter, when demand from visitors is highest.
2. Compare vehicle categories on both the Avis Lebanon and Budget Lebanon websites.
3. Read the rental terms: mileage, fuel policy, cancellation and additional-driver fees.
4. Plan your route in advance with our driving tips for Lebanon and scenic road trip ideas.

Have a question about a reservation? The contact page lists the reservation email, mobile and WhatsApp number for each brand.