When is the Cheapest Time to Fly to Beirut?
The best time for cheap flights to Beirut is in late spring and autumn. The weather is pleasant during these seasons but the city is less crowded and rates are less expensive. Summer, especially in July and August, is peak season. It is also the hottest time of the year with temperatures of up to 35 degrees Celsius. Save on travel by booking low-cost flights to Beirut with Netflights.
When is the Best Time to Book your Flight to Beirut?
The best time to book cheap flights to Beirut is two to three months in advance. Last-minute flights can help you save if booking closer to your departing date and flexible dates will help you find the cheapest day of the week for travel. If you travel during the winter season, remember to carry an umbrella with you as this is also the wettest time of the year.
Flying to Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY)
Nine kilometres away from Beirut’s city centre lies Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY), formerly known as Beirut International Airport. It is the only commercial airport in all of Lebanon.
Beirut flights are available from most UK airports, including Birmingham Airport, Manchester Airport and Edinburgh Airport. Those departing from London can choose from among four airports: Heathrow Airport, Gatwick Airport, London City Airport and Stansted Airport. The majority of Beirut flights are indirect and require one stop along the way. Stopovers include cities like Frankfurt, Istanbul, Paris and London. Heathrow Airport is the only airport in the UK with direct flights from Middle East Airlines and British Airways. Other airlines that offer return flights include Air France, Alitalia, Emirates Airlines, Lufthansa, Qatar Airways and Turkish Airways.
On Arrival and Getting Around the Airport
Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport is a modern, single terminal airport in the shape of a U. Both the east and the west wings of the airport are parallel to each other and connected to the main, central terminal. This terminal has four levels: ground level for arrivals, the first level for departures and the second level has private lounges, a restaurant and a prayer room. The third level is for administration offices. Both wings are reserved for arriving and departing Beirut flights. BEY includes a number of amenities such as ATMs, currency exchange offices, duty-free shops, restaurants and free Wi-Fi for up to 30 minutes per day.
Getting to the City from Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY)
BEY only offers travellers taxis and car hire as a means of getting to Beirut. Taxis are available next to the arrivals gate outside the terminal. Certified taxis carry an airport logo on the side and are regulated by airport authorities. All certified taxis charge the same rates. Regular taxis are also available; however, their prices are based on negotiation. If you prefer the driving option, BEY has several car hire companies with desks in the main terminal.
Why visit Beirut?
Beirut is one of the oldest cities in the world, with a history that dates back 5,000 years. The best place to learn about this is in the National Museum of Beirut, which exhibits an impressive display of archaeological artefacts. The museum is also a part of history itself as it stands on the once infamous Green Line, the front line of the Lebanese civil war. The Great Mosque of Gaza, also known as the Grand Omari Mosque, is the oldest mosque in the Gaza Strip. This mosque has had multiple transformations through the centuries and was originally a Crusader church.
Experience a more modern and artistic side of Beirut with the Beirut Art Center, which displays the works of contemporary artists. The Metropolis Empire Solis cinema showcases films from different genres, as well as international films, and hosts several film festivals throughout the year. Shopping fans have a number of excellent places to choose from, like LeMall or the Aishti Mall, which features a silvery, futuristic and mirrored building. Both the seafront Corniche promenade and the beautiful, tranquil Horsh Beirut Park are the perfect places to take a relaxing stroll.
Don't Forget Before you Fly
Before travelling to Beirut, you will need to apply for a single-entry tourist visa or family visit visa on arrival. Entry requirements may change so be sure to check with the Lebanese Embassy before leaving. Passports must be valid for at least three months from your date of entry. It is advisable to bring a copy of your birth certificate or other official documents as proof of identity. Lebanese Immigration Authorities check all names against a database of those wanted or convicted of offences and names can sometimes result in a match.
